Composite Tubular Rod Joint Assembly for Easier Wedge Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Challenges exist in joining composite seat structures in aircraft seats to ensure reliable load transfer and meet aviation guidelines, particularly with wedge-based joints that face installation difficulties due to symmetrical radially expanding geometries at both ends of composite rods.
Innovation Solution
A joint assembly for tubular composite rods featuring a first wedge ring on the internal surface, a second wedge ring radially outward, and a third wedge ring formed in a hoop direction, with segments, allowing for connection via threads, fasteners, or adhesion, to facilitate reliable load transfer and installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wedge-based joints with symmetrical radially expanding geometries are used at both ends of composite rods, then reliable load transfer is achieved, but installation difficulties arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by giving the wedge-based joint different geometries at each end of the composite rod. One end has a first geometry configured to receive a first fastener, while the other end has a second geometry configured to receive a second fastener with different characteristics. This asymmetric design allows each end to be optimized for its specific installation requirements, resolving the contradiction between reliable load transfer and installation ease.
2Reliability
If composite seat structures are joined to meet aviation guidelines, then structural integrity is ensured, but fabrication time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the joint assembly into multiple discrete components: the composite rod, wedge-based joints at each end, and fasteners. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured and prepared separately, then quickly assembled together. The modular nature of the segmented design enables parallel manufacturing processes and simplifies quality control, thereby improving fabrication efficiency while maintaining structural integrity through proven connection mechanisms.
3Reliability
If wedge rings are arranged on internal and external surfaces of tubular composite rods, then load transfer efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies merging by integrating multiple functional elements into the wedge-based joint structure. The wedge ring combines load transfer functionality with geometric compatibility for fastener reception. By merging these functions into a single integrated component rather than using separate elements, the design achieves efficient load transfer while minimizing the number of discrete parts, thereby reducing overall assembly complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A joint assembly may include a first wedge ring, where the first wedge ring is arranged on an internal surface of the tubular composite rod, having a wedge-shaped radially outward geometry to form a wedge-shaped end portion. The joint assembly may include a second wedge ring, where the second wedge ring is arranged radially outward of an external surface of the tubular composite rod. The joint assembly may include a third wedge ring, where the third wedge ring is arranged between the second wedge ring and the tubular composite rod, where the third wedge ring is formed of two or more segments placed in a hoop direction. The first and the second wedge rings may be connected, for example, by thread joining.