Rectilinear Winding of Composite Inserts for Unidirectional Load Transmission

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing manufacturing techniques for mechanical components with ceramic fibers in a metal matrix are limited in producing components that effectively transmit tensile and compressive loads in one direction, particularly for oblong shapes like rods, as they are primarily suited for circular components.

Innovation Solution

A method involving winding a bonded lap or bundle of coated filaments about a component of revolution in a rectilinear direction, using a specialized winding device with a hollow, oblong mandrel and end plates to create a composite insert capable of transmitting loads in one direction, and subsequent hot isostatic compaction and machining to form a mechanical component like a rod.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If winding is done in a circular direction around a component of revolution, then circular components such as shafts, cylinders, casings or disks can be produced, but oblong components like rods that require unidirectional load transmission cannot be effectively manufactured

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomponent shape adaptabilityVSAvoidload transmission capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The invention transitions from traditional circular winding paths to a rectilinear winding path that extends along the longitudinal axis of the mandrel. This dimensional change in the winding direction enables the production of oblong components with fibers oriented primarily in the longitudinal direction, optimizing load transmission capability for rod-like structures while maintaining the composite manufacturing process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If ceramic fibers are used without metal reinforcement, then erosion resistance is improved, but tensile and compressive strength are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveerosion resistanceVSAvoidtensile and compressive strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The invention uses metal matrix composite materials where ceramic fibers are embedded in a metal matrix. The ceramic fibers provide erosion resistance while the metal matrix provides tensile and compressive strength, creating a composite material that combines the beneficial properties of both materials to achieve superior overall performance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The method enables the production of mechanical components, such as rods, that efficiently transmit tensile and compressive loads in one direction, suitable for aeronautical applications like undercarriages and turbomachines, with improved strength and reduced mass.

Implementation Method 1

a step of winding a bonded lap or bundle of coated filaments about a component of revolution

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWinding:

Implementation Method 2

subsequent hot isostatic compaction and machining to form a mechanical component

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHot isostatic compaction: Hot Isostatic Pressing

Data Source

PatentUS8920935B2Mechanical component comprising an insert made of composite
Publication Date: 2014.12.30 SAFRAN LANDING SYSTEMS
  • US8920935B2 patent drawing
  • US8920935B2 patent drawing
  • US8920935B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of manufacturing a mechanical component, a mechanical component thus obtained, and a winding device designed for implementing the method of manufacture. The mechanical component includes at least one insert made of metal matrix composite, within which matrix ceramic fibers extend, the composite insert being obtained from a plurality of coated filaments each including a ceramic fiber coated with a metal sheath, the method including manufacturing at least one insert by winding a bonded lap or bundle of coated filaments about a component of revolution. At least some of the winding is performed in a rectilinear direction.