Thermal Locking Isolator for Vibration Isolation and Rigid Fixing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional shock and vibration absorbers cannot provide rigidity between structures when needed, and separate locking devices are cumbersome and prone to failure.
Innovation Solution
A locking isolator with joints that transition between a clearance fit state and an interference fit state in response to temperature changes, combined with a dampener to attenuate vibration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional shock and vibration absorbers are used to attenuate forces between the supporting structure and the equipment, then vibration isolation is improved, but the equipment cannot be rigidly fixed to the supporting structure when needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the shock and vibration absorption function with the locking function into a single integrated device. The isolator includes damping elements for vibration attenuation and a locking mechanism with movable locking members that can engage with engagement surfaces on the support structure, eliminating the need for separate locking devices
Solution Approach 2:
The locking members are configured to be movable between engaged and disengaged states, allowing the isolator to dynamically transition between providing rigid fixation and allowing movement. This dynamic capability enables the same device to adapt to different operational requirements
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate locking devices are used to selectively fix the equipment relative to the supporting structure, then rigid fixing capability is improved, but the device becomes cumbersome and prone to failure
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is integrated within the isolator body rather than being a separate device. The locking members are positioned to engage with the support structure directly through the isolator, creating a unified system that reduces overall complexity and the number of components
3Adaptability or versatility
If the locking isolator uses joints that transition between clearance fit and interference fit states, then both vibration isolation and rigid fixing are achieved, but the control mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The joints utilize changes in physical parameters (such as thermal expansion, phase changes, or material properties) to transition between clearance fit and interference fit states. This allows the locking isolator to change its mechanical characteristics without complex control mechanisms, using material science principles instead
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 locking isolator selectively isolates vibration between structures in high-energy environments while locking them together in low-energy environments, providing both flexibility and rigidity as needed.
Implementation Method 1
a dampener configured to attenuate transmission of vibration between the first structure and the second structure when the one or more joints are in the clearance fit state
Implementation Method 2
one or more joints configured to transition between a clearance fit state and an interference fit state in response to a change in temperature
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 4
AI summary
A locking isolator (100) includes one or more joints (102). The one or more joints are configured to transition between a clearance fit state and an interference fit state in response to a change in temperature. The locking isolator (100) includes a dampener (104). The dampener (104) is configured to attenuate transmission of vibration through the one or more joints (102) when the one or more joints (102) are in the clearance fit state.