Wedge-Clamped Shell Fastening for Releasable Large-Area Load Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastening solutions for shell elements, such as CRP structural parts, often rely on punctiform force introduction methods like thread inserts or adhesive bonding, which are non-releasable and economically inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A fastening device comprising a support element and a wedge-shaped compression element, where the compression element is releasably fixed to the support element using a fastener, allowing the shell element to be fixed in a force-fitting and form-fitting manner over a large area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If punctiform force introduction methods (thread inserts, embedded inserts, adhesive bonding) are used, then forces can be introduced into plastics-material parts, but the connection is non-releasable and not economical
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening device is divided into separate components: a support element, a compression element, and a fastener. This segmentation allows the connection to be assembled and disassembled by removing the fastener, enabling releasable connection while maintaining manufacturing economy through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The compression element is designed with a wedge shape that changes the distribution of forces from punctiform to distributed over a large area. This parameter change in force distribution allows the use of simpler, more economical fastening methods while achieving reliable connection.
2Reliability
If forces are introduced over a large area, then the fastening is more reliable, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wedge-shaped compression element transforms the force application from punctiform to distributed over a large area, improving fastening reliability. The wedge geometry inherently achieves this large-area force distribution without requiring complex multi-component systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening device combines metallic components (support element, compression element, fastener) to create a composite fastening system that achieves high reliability through the combination of mechanical advantage (wedge shape) and material strength.
3Manufacturing precision
If wedge-shaped compression element and support element are used, then forces are introduced over a large area in a form-fitting manner, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wedge shape of the compression element and corresponding support element creates a form-fitting connection that ensures precise alignment and force distribution. This geometric parameter change achieves manufacturing precision through simple geometric forms that are easy to manufacture.
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 the introduction of forces over a large area while allowing for disassembly, improving the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the fastening process.
Implementation Method 1
The compression element is wedge-shaped, and the support element is designed so as to correspond to the wedge-shaped compression element
Data Source
AI summary
A fastening device for a shell element which is flat at least in portions and which has a support element and a pressing element, wherein the pressing element is wedge-shaped and the support element is designed correspondingly to the wedge-shaped pressing element, wherein at least one fastener is provided, by way of which the pressing element is releasably fixed to the support element such that the shell element which is flat at least in portions is force-fittingly and form-fittingly fixable between the pressing element and the support element.