Y-Shaped Composite Stringer for Aircraft Panel Buckling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stringers in the aerospace industry, such as 'double T'-section and 'omega'-section stringers, have limited momentum of inertia, are prone to buckling and post-buckling, and exhibit poor torsional behavior, while also facing challenges in weight savings and cost reductions.
Innovation Solution
A Y-shaped composite material stringer is proposed, featuring a structural cross-section with a Y-shape, comprising two structural elements: an open triangular shape structure and a web, which increases the momentum of inertia and enhances structural efficiency, buckling resistance, and torsional behavior.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional double T-section or omega-section stringers are used, then manufacturing is simpler, but momentum of inertia is limited and buckling resistance is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by transitioning from symmetric double T-section or omega-section stringers to an asymmetric Y-shaped cross-section. The Y-shape with its branching geometry provides superior moment of inertia and buckling resistance while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through composite material forming processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a new dimensional configuration by adopting a Y-shaped cross-section that extends in multiple directions from a central web, rather than the traditional linear or symmetric configurations. This dimensional change optimizes the distribution of material to maximize moment of inertia and buckling resistance.
2Strength
If traditional stringer sections are used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but torsional behavior is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric Y-shaped cross-section inherently provides superior torsional resistance compared to symmetric traditional sections. The branching geometry creates a more efficient torsional stiffness distribution, resisting twisting loads more effectively while maintaining structural integrity.
3Strength
If more material is added to increase momentum of inertia, then buckling resistance improves, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention optimizes the geometric parameters of the cross-section by adopting a Y-shape that maximizes moment of inertia per unit weight. The branching configuration distributes material more efficiently, achieving higher stiffness-to-weight ratio compared to traditional sections that would require more material to achieve the same structural performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The use of composite materials enables the Y-shaped stringer to achieve high moment of inertia with reduced weight. Composites provide high strength-to-weight and stiffness-to-weight ratios, allowing the optimized Y-geometry to deliver superior structural performance without the weight penalty of adding more material.
4Manufacturing precision
If high bending angles are used in manufacturing, then structural efficiency improves, but wrinkles appear during manufacturing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the bending angle parameter during manufacturing to balance structural efficiency and defect prevention. By controlling the forming process parameters, the Y-shaped cross-section achieves high structural efficiency while minimizing wrinkles and manufacturing defects through optimized tooling and process parameters.
Data Source
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AI summary
A Y-shaped stringer (100) made of composite material for a panel (1010) of an aircraft, the Y-shaped stringer (100) comprising a stringer web (110) having a cross-section in a I-shape, first and second flanges (130a, 130b) configured to be connectable to the composite panel of the aircraft, an open triangular shape structure (120) comprising first and second lower vertices (120a, 120b) respectively joined to the first and second flanges (130a, 130b) and an upper vertex (120c) connected to a first end of the stringer web (110), wherein the open triangular shape structure (120) and the stringer web (110) form a cross-section in a Y-shape.