Sealed Flow Conduit Joint Assembly for Composite Aircraft Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for forming structural joints between composite structures in aircraft do not provide a sealed flow conduit functionality, leading to increased weight and complexity, and do not effectively manage out-of-plane loads in composite materials.
Innovation Solution
A joint assembly comprising elongated structures with channels, connected by plates that form a sealed conduit through the use of fasteners and sealants, which are designed to manage loads and prevent out-of-plane deformations by varying thickness and shape, allowing for both structural integrity and fluid flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate vent conduits are added to composite structures, then fuel venting functionality is provided, but weight and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the venting conduit function with existing structural elements (stringers, ribs, or spars) of the composite airframe. The sealant material is applied within these existing structures to create sealed flow paths, eliminating the need for separate dedicated vent conduits and reducing overall weight and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The existing structural members are designed to serve multiple functions: providing structural support and simultaneously acting as sealed flow conduits for fuel venting. The sealant material enables these structures to perform both mechanical and fluid transport functions, achieving multi-functionality without adding separate components.
2Strength
If traditional joint methods are used between composite structures, then structural connection is achieved, but sealed flow conduit functionality is not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The joint assembly integrates both structural connection and sealed flow conduit functions into a single integrated solution. Fasteners provide mechanical strength while sealant material simultaneously creates fluid-tight seals, allowing the joint to serve dual purposes without requiring separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint assembly is designed as a multi-functional component that provides both structural attachment and sealed flow path functionality. The combination of fasteners and sealant material enables the joint to perform mechanical connection and fluid sealing simultaneously, enhancing versatility without compromising strength.
3Weight of stationary object
If composite structures are used for fuel tanks, then weight is reduced, but out-of-plane loads cause deformation issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes composite materials with optimized fiber orientations and stacking sequences to resist out-of-plane loads. The composite structure incorporates layers with different orientations (e.g., 0°, 45°, 90°) to provide enhanced strength and stiffness in multiple directions, particularly for resisting deformation from fuel loading and aircraft maneuvers.
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus comprising an elongated structure (204), a first plate(216), and a second plate(218). The elongated structure (204) has a channel(212). The elongated structure (204) is configured to be associated with a primary structure (206) on a first side of the primary structure. The first plate(216) is configured to be connected to the primary structure(206) at a joint(202) and cover a portion of the elongated structure(204). The first plate(216) is connected to the primary structure(206) on the first side of the primary structure. The second plate(218) is configured to be connected to the primary structure(206) on a second side of the primary structure.