Curved Truss Connector Interface for Tolerance Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft trusswork connections to support structures require complex alignment and flexibility, leading to a need for improved load transfer and connection methods that are both efficient and corrosion-resistant.
Innovation Solution
A connector system with a body featuring concentrically arranged portions and a central opening with curved edge sections, allowing for pivoting motion and tolerance compensation, incorporating a rotary nut interface for reduced corrosion and optimized load path, along with an integrated thread for adjustable connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If complex connectors are used for mounting trusswork members to the fuselage structure, then alignment flexibility and tolerance compensation are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs a spherical interface with a curved surface that allows pivoting motion between the connector body and the support structure. This curved spherical interface provides tolerance compensation and alignment flexibility while maintaining a relatively simple connector design, avoiding the need for complex adjustment mechanisms.
2Strength
If traditional rigid connections are used for trusswork, then structural strength is maintained, but corrosion resistance and load distribution are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The connector transitions from a rigid fixed connection to a dynamic pivoting connection. The spherical interface allows rotational movement, enabling the connection to adapt to thermal expansion, vibration, and load variations. This dynamic capability reduces stress concentrations and minimizes corrosion while maintaining structural strength through optimized load distribution.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate parts are used for the connector, then adaptability and adjustment capability are improved, but assembly efficiency and maintenance simplicity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connector integrates multiple functions into a single unified component. The spherical interface combines alignment adjustment, tolerance compensation, and load distribution capabilities in one element, eliminating the need for multiple separate adjustment parts. This integration maintains adaptability while significantly improving assembly efficiency and simplifying maintenance procedures.
Data Source
Figure 1a~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5a~6b
AI summary
In order to provide improved connections for truss work members to a support structure, a connector (10) for a mounting interface of a trusswork is provided. The connector comprising a body with a first portion (12) and a second portion (14). A central opening (16) is provided in the body having an inner wall (18) configured for receiving a connection end of a truss member. The first portion and the second portion are arranged concentrically. The first portion is having first circumferential edge sections (20), and the second portion is having second circumferential edge sections (22). The first and second circumferential edge sections are spaced apart by gap sections 24 that are configured to receive connecting flanges of a support structure. The gap sections are forming segments along a virtual surface that is curved at least in one direction.