Trapezoidal Flange Connection for Composite Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for rigidly assembling thin elements made of fiber-resin composite material, such as gluing or machining, result in weak points or material weakening.
Innovation Solution
A method involving flanges with trapezoidal cavities and complementary projections, allowing for clamping without gluing or fiber cutting, using screws to secure the shaped edges of the elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If gluing is used to assemble thin elements, then the assembly is achieved, but the glue constitutes a weak point of the assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces chemical bonding (gluing) with a mechanical connection system. A flange with a cavity receives a counter-flange with a projection, and clamping means (screws) apply mechanical force to secure the thin elements. This mechanical system eliminates the weak point created by glue while maintaining ease of assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is divided into separate functional components: a flange with cavity, a counter-flange with projection, and clamping means. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally - the cavity and projection provide geometric interlocking, while the clamping means provide adjustable mechanical fastening, together achieving strong assembly without glue.
2Strength
If machining is used to assemble thin elements, then rigid connection is achieved, but the machining leads to cutting of fibers and local weakening
Solution Approach 1:
The flange and counter-flange are prepared in advance with precisely shaped cavities and projections. These pre-formed geometric features are designed to receive and secure the thin elements without requiring any machining or cutting of the elements themselves, thus maintaining material integrity while achieving rigid connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The flange and counter-flange act as intermediary components between the thin elements. Instead of directly machining the thin elements to create connection features, the intermediaries (flanges) provide the connection interface, preserving the structural integrity of the thin elements while enabling rigid assembly.
3Strength
If clamping is applied to secure flanges, then optimal tightening is achieved, but excessive force may damage thin elements
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping means (screws) provide dynamic and adjustable fastening force. The operator can control the tightening force to achieve optimal connection without exceeding the tolerance of the thin elements. The mechanical system allows for gradual application of force, enabling precise control to prevent damage while ensuring secure assembly.
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 rigid assembly of thin fiber-resin composite elements with optimal tightening and no material weakening, ensuring a strong and stable connection.
Implementation Method 1
clamping means for clamping said flange and said counter-flange towards each other, so that they can press together the edges of said elements shaped at least in part to the shape of the projection of said counter-flange
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The method involves preparing a flange (1) comprising a cavity (2) with wide trapezoidal section. A counter-flange (3) comprising a projection (4) with convergent trapezoidal section is prepared. Opposite shaped edges (6A, 7A) of thin elements (6, 7) are partially shaped according to shape of projection of the counter-flange. The flanges are brought closer to each other by interposing shaped edges between the cavity and the projection. The flanges are tightened together in a specific direction, so that the flanges include the elements between the edges. Independent claims are also included for the following: (1) a device for rigid connection of thin elements by opposite edges (2) a container.