Variable Stiffness Joint Bushing With Composite Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing variable stiffness joint assemblies are not robust enough to withstand compressive forces effectively, lacking sufficient resistance and integrity in sealing and torque transmission.
Innovation Solution
A variable stiffness joint assembly with a bushing assembly made of composite material having non-linear stiffness characteristics, featuring engagement elements, a sealing boot, and a clamp to secure the boot to the bushing assembly, along with cavities filled with fluid to enhance robustness and sealing, allowing for rotational and axial movement while resisting compressive forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a conventional bushing assembly is used in a variable stiffness joint, then the joint can achieve variable stiffness and rotational movement, but the assembly lacks robustness and resistance to compressive forces
Solution Approach 1:
The bushing body is constructed from composite materials combining a rigid outer shell with a compliant inner core, enabling the assembly to resist compressive forces while maintaining variable stiffness characteristics and rotational movement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The bushing assembly is divided into distinct functional segments including a rigid outer bushing body, an inner compliant element, sealing components, and retention features, allowing each segment to address specific performance requirements including compressive force resistance
2Strength
If the bushing assembly is made more robust to resist compressive forces, then strength improves, but the ability to allow rotational and axial movement may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The bushing assembly incorporates dynamic characteristics through its composite structure, where the compliant inner element allows controlled deformation during rotational and axial movement while the rigid outer shell provides compressive force resistance, enabling adaptive response to varying load conditions
3Reliability
If a sealing boot is added to seal the joint, then sealing integrity improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing boot is integrated with the bushing assembly through direct attachment to the bushing body, combining the sealing function with the existing structural components and eliminating the need for separate mounting hardware or additional retention mechanisms
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 more robust variable stiffness joint assembly that effectively resists compressive forces and maintains sealing integrity, enhancing the joint's ability to transmit torque while allowing for necessary movement, thereby improving its overall performance and durability.
Implementation Method 1
at least one of the first cavity and the second cavity is filled with a fluid
Implementation Method 2
The bushing body is made of a composite material having a non-linear stiffness characteristic
Data Source
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AI summary
A bushing assembly for a variable stiffness joint assembly includes a bushing body. The bushing body is disposed about a shaft assembly. The bushing body has an inner bushing surface, an outer bushing surface that is spaced apart from the inner bushing surface, a first bushing face that extends between a first end of the inner bushing surface and a first end of the outer bushing surface, and a second bushing face that extends between a second end of the inner bushing surface and a second end the outer bushing surface.