Tube Attachment Node With Adhesive-Threaded Multi-Feature Joint
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods for fabricating attachment structures for connecting carbon fiber or composite tube frames in space frame construction are costly and complex, requiring high equipment and manufacturing costs due to the need for varied connection angles and geometries.
Innovation Solution
An adhesive and mechanically bonded adapter with a connection member featuring a threaded surface and an external adhesively bonded surface, allowing for multiple attachment features that include a space with varying dimensions to securely position and lock a tube, utilizing both mechanical fastening and adhesive reinforcement for enhanced joint strength and durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional casting or machining methods are used to fabricate attachment structures for tube frame chassis, then the connection can accommodate various tube geometries and angles, but the equipment and manufacturing costs become high
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment structure is divided into multiple components: a first attachment structure with a first engagement feature for connecting to a first tube, and a second attachment structure with a second engagement feature for connecting to a second tube. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and assembled to achieve complex geometries without requiring expensive custom casting or machining of monolithic structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment structure incorporates multiple engagement features that can accommodate different tube geometries and connection angles through various attachment methods (e.g., press-fit, threaded, welded). This multi-functionality allows a single standardized attachment structure to replace multiple custom-designed components, reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex attachment structures are designed to accommodate various connection angles and geometries, then the adaptability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the attachment structure into modular components with standardized interfaces, the design achieves complex connection capabilities through simple assembly of basic elements rather than creating monolithic complex structures. Each module maintains geometric simplicity while the combination provides overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment structures can be nested or interconnected in various configurations to achieve different connection angles and geometries. This nesting approach allows complex spatial arrangements to be built from simple basic units, reducing the complexity of individual components while maintaining overall system versatility.
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 solution provides a cost-effective and durable attachment method that allows for complex geometries and varied load paths, facilitating efficient assembly and increased structural strength by distributing loads through multiple connection points, while also enabling customization for different applications.
Implementation Method 1
the outer surface of the inner wall includes an engagement feature configured to increase a resistance to removal of the tube from the space after being inserted into the space... the engagement feature comprises at least a first threaded surface
Implementation Method 2
an adhesive that at least adheres the inner surface of the outer wall to an outer surface of the tube
Data Source
AI summary
The present aspects include an adhesive and mechanically bonded adapter or node. The adapter or node comprises a connection member, including: an outer wall extending in a first direction from a first proximal end to a first distal end; an inner wall extending within the outer wall, in the first direction, from a second proximal end to a second distal end; and a base wall extending from an inner surface of the outer wall to an outer surface of the inner wall between the first proximal end and the second proximal end; and wherein the outer wall, the inner wall, and the base wall define a space having a distance between the outer wall and the inner wall that varies in the first direction, wherein the space is configured to fixedly position an end portion of a tube inserted into the space such that the end portion is fixed to the inner surface of the outer wall and the outer surface of the inner wall.