Wire Mesh Grommet Structure for High-Temperature Vibration Damping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing grommets in fire and overheat detection systems degrade at high temperatures and require substantial assembly time, failing to securely hold sensing elements in high-vibration aircraft engine environments.
Innovation Solution
A wire mesh grommet with a central aperture and slit extending along its entire length, made of metallic wire mesh with tapered ends and a lining for anti-abrasion, designed to securely fit and dampen vibrations while withstanding high temperatures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional plastic or PTFE grommets are used, then the assembly process is simple, but the grommets degrade at high temperatures and cannot securely hold sensing elements
Solution Approach 1:
The grommet uses a composite structure combining metallic wire mesh outer layer with a soft inner lining material. The wire mesh provides high-temperature structural integrity and vibration resistance, while the lining material provides ease of assembly and sensing element protection. This composite approach resolves the contradiction by combining materials with complementary properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the material parameter from traditional plastic/PTFE to metallic wire mesh, which fundamentally alters the temperature resistance parameter. The wire mesh structure maintains its mechanical properties at high temperatures where plastic materials would degrade, thus improving reliability without significantly complicating the assembly process.
2Reliability
If more grommets are installed to secure sensing elements, then the sensing element support is improved, but the assembly time increases substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple functions into a single grommet component: the wire mesh provides structural support and vibration damping, the slit allows easy insertion of sensing elements, the tapered sections facilitate assembly, and the lining protects the sensing element. This consolidation reduces the number of parts and assembly steps while maintaining or improving sensing element support reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The soft inner lining acts as a flexible protective layer that conforms to the sensing element, providing secure support without requiring multiple rigid grommets. The flexibility allows easy insertion and accommodation of the sensing element, reducing assembly time while maintaining reliable support.
3Reliability
If traditional grommets are used, then the manufacturing process is simple, but they become unable to hold sensing elements after degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The composite structure of wire mesh outer layer and soft lining inner layer provides both immediate holding capability and long-term durability. The wire mesh does not degrade at high temperatures, ensuring the grommet maintains its holding capability throughout the intended service life, unlike traditional plastic materials that degrade over time.
Solution Approach 2:
The grommet applies local quality by using different materials in different regions: the wire mesh provides durable, high-temperature resistant structure, while the soft lining provides protective contact with the sensing element. This localized material selection optimizes both holding capability and service life without compromising overall performance.
4Reliability
If sensing elements are routed along engine structures, then fire hazard coverage is improved, but vibration and shock from the engine affect the detectors
Solution Approach 1:
The soft inner lining acts as a vibration-damping layer between the rigid wire mesh grommet and the sensing element. This flexible layer absorbs and dampens engine vibrations and shocks, protecting the sensing element from harmful mechanical effects while maintaining proper positioning for fire hazard coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The composite structure combines the rigid wire mesh for structural support and positioning with the soft lining for vibration damping. This material combination allows the grommet to maintain secure holding capability while isolating the sensing element from engine vibrations, resolving the contradiction between detection coverage and vibration resistance.
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 wire mesh grommet provides secure, durable, and easy-to-install solutions for sensing elements, reducing assembly time and preventing abrasion, with improved thermal conductivity and vibration damping capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
the grommets offer proper support between the end brackets to mount the detectors to the engine or a support rail assembly. The grommets hold the sensing elements in place with the help of clamping pressure and serve to dampen vibration or shock coming from the engine.
Implementation Method 2
the wire mesh includes metallic wire mesh... with improved thermal conductivity and vibration damping capabilities
Data Source
AI summary
A grommet is provided for use in a fire and overheat detection system (FODS) clamp. The grommet includes an elongated body defining a central aperture and a slit. The elongated body includes wire mesh.