Shape-Memory Bushing Assembly for Damage-Free Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bushing installation methods, particularly for shape-memory bushings with flanges, often result in damaged bushings or structures due to non-uniform expansion rates and require complex installation techniques like shrink-fit or brute force, limiting their use.
Innovation Solution
A bushing assembly featuring a cylindrical body made from smart materials, such as shape-memory alloys or polymers, that selectively expands to secure within a washer flange in an interference fit, using complementary configurations and notches/projections for precise alignment and minimal damage, with a seal for fluid-tight integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If shape-memory bushings are used for installation, then the bushing can be securely installed in an interference fit, but the bushing cannot be easily removed or replaced
Solution Approach 1:
The bushing utilizes shape-memory material that can dynamically change its expansion state based on temperature. During installation, the bushing is heated to expand and secure in the interference fit. For replacement, the bushing is cooled to contract and allow removal. This dynamic state change enables both secure installation and easy replacement without compromising either requirement.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional shrink-fit or brute force installation methods are used for flanged bushings, then the bushing can be installed, but the bushing or structure may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The installation process utilizes temperature as a controllable parameter to change the physical state of the shape-memory bushing. By heating the bushing to a specific temperature range, it expands to an austenitic state that allows easy installation into the flanged opening. After installation, cooling returns it to a contracted martensitic state, securing it without damage. This parameter-based control eliminates the need for damaging brute force methods.
3Manufacturing precision
If shape-memory technology is applied to flanged bushings, then uniform expansion can be achieved, but different parts of the bushing expand at different rates
Solution Approach 1:
The flanged bushing is divided into two separate components: a cylindrical bushing body and a flange. The bushing body, made of shape-memory material, expands uniformly when heated. The flange remains separate during the expansion process and is attached afterward. This segmentation allows the shape-memory material to expand uniformly without the complexity of coordinating expansion of integrated flanged structures.
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
Enables predictable and damage-free installation of bushing assemblies with flanges, allowing for easier repair and replacement while maintaining structural integrity and fluid-tight seals.
Implementation Method 1
The cylindrical body is fabricated from a smart material that is configured to selectively expand when at least a portion of the body is positioned within the washer opening
Data Source
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AI summary
A bushing assembly (100) includes a washer (110) that includes an opening (130) defined therethrough. A cylindrical body (120) includes a first end (230) that is sized to be inserted within the washer opening and an opposite second end (240). The cylindrical body (120) is fabricated from a smart material that is configured to selectively expand when at least a portion of the body is positioned within the washer opening (130).