SE2051057A1

SE2051057A1 - A device for the mechanical joining of two or more elements

Info

Publication number: SE2051057A1
Application number: SE2051057A
Authority: SE
Inventors: David Larsson
Original assignee: Scania Cv Ab
Priority date: 2020-09-09
Filing date: 2020-09-09
Publication date: 2022-03-10
Also published as: SE546195C2; DE102021116705A1

Abstract

A device (102; 502) for the mechanical joining of two or more elements (202; 602). The device (102; 502) is attachable to one (202; 602) of the elements (202; 602). The device (102; 502) forms a through hole (104; 504) for receiving a mechanical joint member (304). The device (102; 502) is made of a composite material comprising a 3-dimensional woven structure (402). A method for producing a device (102; 502), which is mentioned above, for the mechanical joining of two or more elements (202; 602) mentioned above, wherein the method comprises: producing (702) the device (102; 502) from a material comprising a 3-dimensional woven structure (402). An element (202; 602) comprising one or more such devices (102; 502). A mechanical joint (302) comprising one or more such elements (202; 602). A vehicle (800) comprising one or more of: the device (102; 502), the element (202; 602) and the mechanical joint (302).

Description

A DEVICE FOR THE MECHANICAL JOINING OF TWO OR MORE ELEMENTS Technical field Aspects of the present invention relate to a device for the mechanical joining of two ormore elements. Further, aspects of the present invention relate to a method forproducing a device configured for the mechanical joining of two or more elements.

Background ln various structures and apparatuses, for example in vehicles, such as motor vehicles,two or more elements may be joined in order to construct or assemble a certainconfiguration or assembly. The one or more elements to be joined, for example bymeans of a mechanical joint, may nowadays be made of a composite materialcomprising one or more composite laminates, or may be made of any other suitablematerial. The element made of a composite material comprising one or morecomposite laminates may, for example, be referred to as a laminate element, forexample hereinbelow. For example, the composite material may comprise a carbonfibre reinforced polymer (CFRP). Conventionally, the joining of an element made of acomposite material, which comprises one or more composite laminates, to a similarelement, or a different kind of element, may be performed by many small jointsincluding many small fasteners, such as rivets or screws. Thus, each little joint presentsa low clamping force. The concept of many small joints/fasteners for joining elementsof the above-mentioned sorts is, for example, used in the aircraft manufacturingindustry. Another conventional concept for joining elements of the above-mentionedsorts is to use metal inserts having a through hole, wherein each element is providedwith such a metal insert, i.e. the metal insert is joined or attached to the element. Thelaminate element or laminate elements having a metal insert can then be joined by aconventionally sized threaded bolt, which engages the through hole of the metal insertof the laminate element, and a conventional nut, wherein the bolt and the nut togetherwith the metal insert, or metal inserts, form a mechanical joint. Conventionally, the useof a metal insert together with a laminate element is attractive to some industries,because the assembly process is similar to the assembly process for moreconventional elements made of a metal or a metal alloy. The use of a bolt and a nut together with a metal insert, or metal inserts, when assembling or joining laminateelements may provide a strong mechanical joint and is in general less time consuming compared to the concept of many small joints/fasteners mentioned above.

Summary The inventor of the present invention has found drawbacks in the conventionalconcepts for joining elements made of a composite material, which comprises one ormore composite laminates, or for joining an element made of a composite material,which comprises one or more composite laminates, to an element of any other suitablekind or configuration. For example, the inventor of the present invention has found thata conventional metal insert in combination with the laminate element may not providea sufficiently strong mechanical joint holding two or more laminate elements together,or one laminate element and an element of any other suitable kind together. Forexample, the inventor of the present invention has found that weak spots may becreated in the interface between the conventional metal insert and the element, forexample the laminate element, which may have a negative impact on the strength ofthe mechanical joint which joins two or more laminate elements, or one laminate element and an element of any other suitable kind.

An object of embodiments of the invention is to provide a solution which mitigates orsolves drawbacks and problems of conventional solutions.

The above and further objects are solved by the subject matter of the independentclaims. Further advantageous embodiments of the invention can be found in thedependent claims.

According to a first aspect of the invention, the above mentioned and other objects areachieved with a device for the mechanical joining of two or more elements, wherein the device is attachable to one of the elements, wherein the device forms a through hole for receiving a mechanical jointmember, and wherein the device is made of a composite material comprising a 3- dimensional woven structure.

An advantage of the device according to the first aspect is that an improved interfacebetween the device and the element can be attained. For example, an advantage ofthe device according to the first aspect is that an interface between the device and theelement with a reduced number of weak spots, which for example may include voidsor other defects, is attained. An advantage of the device according to the first aspectis that a stronger interface between the device and a laminate element can be attainedin relation to conventional mechanical joints including a metal insert and a laminateelement, such as an interface that strongly attaches the device to the laminate element.An advantage of the device according to the first aspect is that the device can be usedfor high loaded mechanical joints, such as high loaded screw joints, for joining elements, such as one or more laminate elements.

For example, by way of the composite material comprising the 3-dimensional wovenstructure, the device and said interface can be given various kinds of shapes, alsocomplex, advanced or unique shapes, in an easier and more efficient manner by wayof the 3-dimensional (3D) weaving technology, which for example improves theinterface between the device and the element, for example the laminate element, inrelation to conventional solutions, such as conventional casting of a metal insert. Forexample, the innovative device can provide an increased contact area between thedevice and the element, for example the laminate element, compared to conventionalsolutions. For example, the device and the laminate element may be formed ormoulded in the same moulding step or process, which may further improve theinterface between the device and the element. Further, by way of the innovative device,failures, for example delamination in the laminate element, which occur between, or inthe interface between, the laminate element and a conventional metal insert, are avoided.

An advantage of the device according to the first aspect is that a device, for examplein the form of an insert, with improved isotropic material properties, for example closeto isotropic material properties, is provided. By using a 3-dimensional (3D) weavingtechnology to form the device made of the composite material comprising the 3- dimensional woven structure, such improved material properties can be attained.

Improved isotropic material properties, for example close to isotropic materialproperties, are important in order to handle, withstand, or cope with, strong out-of-the-plane forces, i.e. forces substantially perpendicular to a surface, or a surface portion,of the element, for example the laminate element. These strong forces, which aresubstantially perpendicular to a surface of the element, for example the laminateelement, will occur in a mechanical joint which mechanically joins two or moreelements, because of occurring strong compression forces. Thus, an advantage of thedevice according to the first aspect is that the device can withstand strong out-of-the-plane forces and high screw joint clamping forces, for example withstand higher clamping forces than laminate elements alone can withstand.

An advantage of the device according to the first aspect is that an improved mechanicaljoining of two or more elements is provided, wherein, for example, at least one of theelements may be a laminate element. An advantage of the device according to the firstaspect is that the innovative device provides an improved, for example a stronger, amore resistant and/or a more durable, mechanical joint, such as a screw joint, forjoining one or more laminate elements compared to conventional joints, which join oneor more laminate elements. The innovative device is advantageous when used invehicles, for example in wheeled vehicles, such as trucks, where one or more laminateelements is/are to be joined, because in vehicles the mechanical joint joining one ormore laminate elements may be subjected to strong forces and subjected to strong forces for a long time.

Further, an advantage of the device according to the first aspect is that, although animproved mechanical joint is attained, the conventional assembly process forassembling elements, for example with bolts and nuts, can essentially continue in thesame manner as before, without requiring any alterations of the conventional assembly process.

Further, an advantage of the device according to the first aspect is that a low-weightmechanical joint for joining one or more elements, for example laminate elements, isprovided, which has a lower weight compared to conventional mechanical jointsinvolving metal inserts. This is, inter alia, relevant to wheeled vehicles, since the total weight of the vehicle will be reduced, which in turn will result in a reduced powerconsumption of the wheeled vehicle, for example a reduced fuel consumption and/ora reduced electric battery power consumption.

The device may form one or more through holes for receiving one or more mechanicaljoint members. For example, the mechanical joint member may comprise a screw or athreaded bolt. The screw or bolt may be configured to engage a threaded nut in orderto form a mechanical joint joining two or more elements, wherein, for example, at leastone of the elements may be a laminate element. However, other mechanical jointmembers are possible. For example, the composite material of an element maycomprise, or consist of, one or more carbon fibre reinforced polymers (CFRP). Thecarbon fibre reinforced polymer may also be referred to as a carbon fibre reinforcedplastic. ln general, a composite laminate, or a composite laminate material, comprisesa plurality of plies or layers bonded together, for example by a matrix. By way of theplurality of plies, inter alia, an improved strength, stability, and/or sound insulation maybe achieved. Other properties may also be improved or provided by way of the plurality of plies.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the device according to the first aspect,the device is attachable to one of the elements which is at least partly made of acomposite material comprising one or more composite laminates. At least one of theelements to be mechanically joined may be at least partly made of a compositematerial, wherein the composite material of the at least one element comprises, orconsists of, one or more composite laminates. An advantage of these embodiments isthat an improved mechanical joining of a laminate element to another element is provided.

According to another advantageous embodiment of the device according to the firstaspect, the 3-dimensional woven structure is produced by 3-dimensional weaving. Anadvantage of this embodiment is that a further improved mechanical joining of two ormore elements is provided, wherein at least one of the elements may be a laminate element. lO According to a further advantageous embodiment of the device according to the firstaspect, the 3-dimensional woven structure comprises a plurality of fibres which are 3-dimensional woven. An advantage of this embodiment is that a further improvedmechanical joining of two or more elements is provided, wherein at least one of the elements may be a laminate element.

According to another advantageous embodiment of the device according to the firstaspect, each fibre of the plurality of fibres has a longitudinal extension.

According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the device according to the firstaspect, the longitudinal extensions of the plurality of fibres extend in at least threedifferent directions. An advantage of this embodiment is that a further improvedmechanical joining of two or more elements is provided, wherein at least one of the elements may be a laminate element.

According to still another advantageous embodiment of the device according to thefirst aspect, the longitudinal extensions of the plurality of fibres are entangled in at leastthree different directions. An advantage of this embodiment is that a further improvedmechanical joining of two or more elements is provided, wherein at least one of the elements may be a laminate element.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the device according to the first aspect,at least some of the longitudinal extensions of the plurality of fibres extend in thedirections of the coordinate axes of a 3-dimensional coordinate system. An advantageof this embodiment is that a further improved mechanical joining of two or more elements is provided, wherein at least one of the elements may be a laminate element.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the device according to the firstaspect, the 3-dimensional woven structure is produced by three or more fibre yarn sets,and wherein each fibre yarn set comprises one or more fibre yarns. An advantage ofthis embodiment is that a further improved mechanical joining of two or more elementsis provided, wherein at least one of the elements may be a laminate element. lO According to another advantageous embodiment of the device according to the firstaspect, the fibres of the plurality of fibres are made of an electrically conductingmaterial. An advantage of this embodiment is that induction heating of the 3-dimensional woven structure and the matrix of the device can be performed, forexample in the area ofthe interface between the device and the element. This inductionheating can be performed when moulding both the device and the laminate element.Hereby, the fibre fraction volume, or the fibre volume content, in the device and in thearea of the interface between the device and the laminate element can be furtherincreased, which results in a reduced risk of voids and other defects having a negativeimpact on the strength of the mechanical joint joining one or more laminate elements.An advantage of this embodiment, which allows for induction heating, is that animproved interface between the device and the element can be attained. For example,an advantage of this embodiment is that an interface between the device and theelement with a reduced number of weak spots, which for example may include voidsor other defects, is attained. Thus, an advantage of this embodiment, which allows forinduction heating, is that a stronger interface between the device and the laminateelement can be attained in relation to conventional mechanical joints including a metalinsert and a laminate element. Further, an advantage of this embodiment, which allowsfor induction heating, is that a device with improved isotropic material properties isprovided. The improved isotropic material properties, for example close to isotropicmaterial properties, provide a stronger device which better can handle and withstand strong out-of-the-plane forces.

According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the device according to the firstaspect, the fibres of the plurality of fibres are made of a material comprising carbon.An advantage of this embodiment is that the induction heating of the 3-dimensionalwoven structure and the matrix is further improved, whereby the fibre fraction volumein the device and in the area of the interface between the device and the element canbe further increased. An advantage of this embodiment is that a further improvedinterface between the device and the element is attained. An advantage of thisembodiment is that a device with further improved isotropic material properties isprovided, whereby a stronger device, which better can handle and withstand strong lO out-of-the-plane forces, is provided. Other materials, in addition to carbon, are possible.

According to still another advantageous embodiment of the device according to thefirst aspect, the device is made of a composite material comprising a matrix. The matrixmay comprise, or be described as, a polymer structure, for example a glue structure,or an epoxy structure. However, other compositions for the matrix are possible.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the device according to the first aspect,the device comprises an interface for the attachment of the device to one of theelements, wherein the interface comprises at least one protrusion for protruding intoone or more cavities of one of the elements. An advantage of this embodiment is thata strong bonding and strong interface between the device and the element, for examplethe laminate element, can be attained, whereby an improved and stronger mechanicaljoining of elements is provided. For example, this embodiment provides an increasedcontact area between the device and the element. Further, an advantage of thisembodiment is that the at least one protrusion provides an improved, or stronger,interlocking between the device and the element in an axial direction, i.e. the directionof a centerline of the through-hole of the device, whereby the device and the elementattached thereto can withstand stronger out-of-the-plane forces.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the device according to the firstaspect, the at least one protrusion surrounds the through hole. An advantage of thisembodiment is that a stronger bonding and stronger interface between the device andthe element can be attained, whereby a further improved and stronger mechanical joining of elements is provided.

According to another advantageous embodiment of the device according to the firstaspect, the device comprises a base, which forms the through hole, and an interface for the attachment of the device to one of the elements, wherein the interface comprises a plurality of protrusions for protruding into one or more cavities of one of the elements, lO wherein each protrusion of the plurality of protrusions comprises a proximalend portion and a distal end portion, wherein the proximal end portion is connected to the base and is locatedbetween the distal end portion and the base, and wherein the distal end portions of the protrusions are spaced apart from oneanother.According to some embodiments, the interface comprises one or more protrusionseach protruding in radial directions in relation to a center|ine of the through-hole. Anadvantage of these embodiments is that an improved bonding and interface betweenthe device and the element can be attained, whereby a further improved and strongermechanical joining of elements is provided. For example, these embodiments providea further increased contact area between the device and the element.

According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the device according to the firstaspect, the plurality of protrusions comprises two adjacent protrusions forming arecess between each other. An advantage of this embodiment is that a furtherimproved bonding and interface between the device and the element can be attained,whereby a further improved and stronger mechanical joining of elements is provided.For example, this embodiment provides a further increased contact area between thedevice and the element.

According to still another advantageous embodiment of the device according to thefirst aspect, the recess is configured to receive one or more portions of one of theelements. An advantage of this embodiment is that a further improved bonding andinterface between the device and the element can be attained, whereby a further improved and stronger mechanical joining of elements is provided.

According to a second aspect of the invention, the above mentioned and other objectsare achieved with an element comprising one or more devices according to any one ofthe above- and below-mentioned embodiments, wherein the device is attached to the element. lO lO The advantages of the element according to the second aspect correspond to theabove- or below-mentioned advantages of the device according to the first aspect andits embodiments.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the element according to the secondaspect, the element is at least partly made of a composite material, wherein the composite material of the element comprises one or more composite laminates.

According to a third aspect of the invention, the above mentioned and other objectsare achieved with a mechanical joint comprising one or more elements according toany one of the above- and below-mentioned embodiments, wherein the mechanicaljoint comprises one or more mechanical joint members received by the one or morethrough holes of the one or more devices. For example, the mechanical joint membermay comprise a screw or threaded bolt. The screw or bolt may be configured to engagea threaded nut to form the mechanical joint together with the one or more elementsand the at least one device. However, other mechanical joint members are alsopossible.

The advantages of the mechanical joint according to the third aspect correspond to theabove- or below-mentioned advantages of the device according to the first aspect andits embodiments.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention, the above mentioned and other objectsare achieved with a method for producing a device, the device being configured for themechanical joining of two or more elements, wherein at least one of the elements maybe at least partly made of a composite material comprising one or more compositelaminates,wherein the device is attachable to one of the elements, andwherein the device forms a through hole for receiving a mechanical jointmember, wherein the method comprises:o producing the device from a material comprising a 3-dimensional wovenstructure. lO ll The advantages of the method according to the fourth aspect correspond to the above-or below-mentioned advantages of the device according to the first aspect and its embodiments.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the fourthaspect, the method comprises: o producing the 3-dimensiona| woven structure by 3-dimensiona| weaving.An advantage of this embodiment is that a further improved mechanical joining of two or more laminate elements can be provided.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the method according to the fourthaspect, the method comprises: o producing the device from a material comprising a 3-dimensiona| wovenstructure which comprises a p|ura|ity of fibres which are 3-dimensiona| wovenby 3-dimensiona| weaving.

An advantage of this embodiment is that a further improved mechanical joining of two or more laminate elements can be provided.

According to another advantageous embodiment of the method according to the fourthaspect, the method comprises: o producing the device from a material comprising a 3-dimensiona| wovenstructure which is produced by three or more fibre yarn sets, wherein each fibreyarn set comprises one or more fibre yarns.

An advantage of this embodiment is that a further improved mechanical joining of two or more laminate elements is provided.

According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the method according to thefourth aspect, the fibres of the p|ura|ity of fibres are made of an electrically conductingmaterial, wherein the method comprises: o moulding the device from the 3-dimensiona| woven structure and a matrix while induction heating the 3-dimensiona| woven structure and the matrix. lO 12 The induction heating of the 3-dimensional woven structure and the matrix of thedevice can advantageously be performed in the area of the interface between thedevice and the element. An advantage of this embodiment is that the induction heatingcan be performed when moulding both the device and the laminate element. By saidinduction heating, the fibre fraction volume in the device and in the area of the interfacebetween the device and the laminate element can be further increased, which resultsin a reduced risk of voids and other defects having a negative impact on the strengthof the mechanical joint joining one or more laminate elements. An advantage of thisembodiment is that an improved interface between the device and the element can beattained. For example, an advantage of this embodiment is that an interface betweenthe device and the element with a reduced number of weak spots, which for examplemay include voids or other defects, is attained. Thus, an advantage of this embodimentis that an improved and stronger interface between the device and the laminateelement can be attained in relation to conventional mechanical joints including a metalinsert and a laminate element. Further, an advantage of this embodiment is that adevice with improved isotropic material properties is provided. The improved isotropicmaterial properties, for example close to isotropic material properties, provide a stronger device which better can handle and withstand strong out-of-the-plane forces.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention, the above mentioned and other objects areachieved with a vehicle comprising one or more of the group of:o a device according to any one of the above- or below-mentioned embodiments;o an element according to any one of the above- or below-mentionedembodiments; ando a mechanical joint according to any one of the above- or below-mentionedembodiments.

The advantages of the vehicle according to the fifth aspect correspond to the above-or below-mentioned advantages of the device according to the first aspect and its embodiments. lO 13 The vehicle may be a wheeled vehicle, i.e. a vehicle having wheels. The vehicle mayfor example be a bus, a tractor vehicle, a heavy vehicle, a truck, or a car. However,other types of vehicles are possible. The vehicle may be referred to as a motor vehicle.

The above-mentioned features and embodiments of the device, the element, themechanical joint, the method and the vehicle, respectively, may be combined in variouspossible ways providing further advantageous embodiments.

Further advantageous embodiments of the device, the element, the mechanical joint,the method and the vehicle according to the present invention and further advantageswith the embodiments of the present invention emerge from the detailed description hereinbelow.

Brief Description of the DrawingsEmbodiments of the invention will now be illustrated, for exemplary purposes, in moredetail by way of embodiments and with reference to the enclosed drawings, where similar references are used for similar parts, in which: Fig.1 is a schematic perspective view of a first embodiment of the deviceaccording to the first aspect of the invention; Fig. 2 is a schematic top view of the device of Fig. 1;Fig. 3 is a schematic side view of the device of Fig. 1;Fig. 4 is a schematic top view of the device of Fig. 1 when the device is attached to a first embodiment of the element according to the second aspect of the invention; Fig. 5 is a schematic cross-section view of the device and the element of Fig. 4along A-A; Fig. 6 is a schematic cross-section view of an embodiment of the mechanical joint according to the third aspect of the invention;Fig. 7 is a schematic perspective view of a second embodiment of the deviceaccording to the first aspect of the invention;Fig. 8 is a schematic top view of the device of Fig. 7;Fig. 9 is a schematic side view of the device of Fig. 7; lO 14 Fig. 10 is a schematic cross-section view of the device of Fig. 7 (along B-B) whenthe device is attached to a second embodiment of the element accordingto the second aspect of the invention; Fig. 11 is a schematic side view of a portion of a composite material comprising a3-dimensiona| woven structure; Fig. 12 is a schematic top view of the portion of the composite material comprisinga 3-dimensiona| woven structure of Fig. 11; Fig. 13 is a schematic flow chart illustrating aspects of embodiments of themethod according to the fourth aspect of the invention; and Fig. 14 is a schematic side view of an embodiment of the vehicle according to thefifth aspect of the invention.

Detailed Description With reference to Figs. 1 to 6, a first embodiment of the device 102 for the mechanicaljoining of two or more elements 202 (see Figs. 4 to 6) according to the first aspect ofthe invention is schematically illustrated. ln addition thereto, Figs. 4 to 6 alsoschematically illustrate a first embodiment of the element 202 according to the secondaspect of the invention. Further, Fig. 6 schematically illustrates an embodiment of the mechanical joint 302 according to the third aspect of the invention.

With reference to Fig. 6, the device 102 is configured to mechanicallyjoin two or moreelements 202, or configured to attach two or more elements 202. ln the following,reference is made to one element 202 of the two or more elements 202. The twoelements 202 may, but not necessarily, comprise the same, or similar, features/design.The element 202 may be at least partly made of a composite material, wherein thecomposite material of the element 202 comprises, or consists of, one or morecomposite laminates. However, the element 202 may be of a different design orconfiguration, and may, for example, be made of a composite material without anycomposite laminate. The element 202 may also be made of a material different from acomposite material, for example a material comprising only one constituent material,such as a plastic or polymer material. Other materials, for example other materialseach including only one constituent material, are also possible. ln some embodiments,the element 202 may be completely, or to a large extent, made of a composite material, lO which comprises, or consists of, one or more composite laminates. ln someembodiments, the element 202 may be partly made of a composite material, which comprises, or consists of, one or more composite laminates.

As mentioned above, the composite material of the element 202 may, for example,comprise, or consist of, one or more carbon fibre reinforced polymers (CFRP). Thecarbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) may also be referred to as a carbon fibrereinforced plastic. However, other composite materials for the element 202 arepossible. ln general, a composite laminate, or a composite laminate material,comprises a plurality of plies, or layers, bonded together, for example by a matrix. Asmentioned above, by way of the plurality of plies, inter alia, an improved strength andstability may be attained. Other properties may also be improved or provided by wayof the plurality of plies.

With reference to Figs. 4 to 6, the device 102 is attachable to one of the elements 202.Advantageously, the device 102 may be attachable to one 202 of the elements 202which is at least partly made of a composite material comprising one or morecomposite laminates. At least one of the elements 202 to be mechanically joined maybe at least partly made of a composite material, wherein the composite material of theat least one element 202 comprises, or consists of, one or more composite laminates.

With reference to Figs. 1, 2 and 4 to 6, the device 102 forms, or defines, a through hole104 for receiving a mechanical joint member 304 (see Fig. 6). With reference to Figs.1, 2, 4 and 5, the device 102 may comprise an inner wall 106 which defines the throughhole 104. ln the shown embodiment, the cross-section of the through hole 104 iscircular, or the inner wall 106 of the through hole 104 forms a cylindrical through hole104. However, other cross-sections of the through hole 104 are possible, for examplerectangular. The device 102 may be referred to, or defined, as an insert. ln alternativeembodiments, the device may form two or more through holes for receiving two or more mechanical joint members.

When the element 202 is at least partly made of a composite material, for examplecomprising, or consisting of, one or more composite laminates, the interface, or portion, lO 16 of the element 202, which adjoins, or is configured to adjoin, the device 102, maycomprise the composite material, for example comprising, or consisting of, one or more composite laminates.

With reference to Figs. 1 to 6, the device 102 is made of a composite material, whereinthe composite material of the device 102 comprises a 3-dimensional (3D) wovenstructure 402. With reference to Figs. 11 and 12, an embodiment of the 3-dimensionalwoven structure 402, or a portion of the embodiment of the 3-dimensional wovenstructure 402, is schematically illustrated. ln Fig. 11, the 3-dimensional woven structure402 in shown in the x-direction and y-direction. ln Fig. 12, the 3-dimensional wovenstructure 402 in shown in the x-direction and z-direction. lt may be defined that the 3-dimensional woven structure 402 is produced by 3-dimensional (3D) weaving. Withreference to Figs. 11 and 12, the 3-dimensional woven structure 402 may comprise aplurality of fibres 404, 406, 408 which are 3-dimensional woven, i.e. the fibres 404,406, 408 of the plurality of fibres 404, 406, 408 may be 3-dimensional woven. Eachfibre 404, 406, 408 of the plurality of fibres 404, 406, 408 has a longitudinal extension.The fibres 404, 406, 408 of the plurality of fibres 404, 406, 408 may be referred to as continuous fibres.

With reference to Figs. 11 and 12, the longitudinal extensions of the plurality of fibres404, 406, 408 may extend in at least three different directions x, y and z. Thelongitudinal extensions of the plurality of fibres 404, 406, 408 may be entangled in atleast three different directions x, y and z. Expressed alternatively, the fibres 404, 406,408 of the plurality of fibres 404, 406, 408 may be entangled in at least three directionsx, yand z. With reference to the embodiment shown in Figs. 11 and 12, at least someof the longitudinal extensions of the plurality of fibres 404, 406, 408 may extend in thedirections x, y, z of the coordinate axes x, y, z of a 3-dimensional (3D) coordinatesystem. The directions of the coordinate axes may be x, y and z directions. However,in embodiments, the at least three different directions may be different from x, y and z of a 3-dimensional coordinate system.

With reference to Figs. 11 and 12, the fibres 404 may extend in the direction x of thecoordinate axis x. The fibres 406 may extend in the direction y of the coordinate axis lO 17 y. The fibres 408 may extend in the direction z of the coordinate axis z. lt may bedefined that the 3-dimensiona| woven structure 402 is produced by three or more fibreyarn sets 410, 412, 414, wherein each fibre yarn set 410, 412, 414 comprises one ormore fibre yarns 416, 418, 420. lt is to be understood that many other versions orpatterns of the 3-dimensiona| woven structure 402 are possible, and the 3-dimensiona|woven structure 402 may, for example, be more elaborate or complex.

With reference to Figs. 11 and 12, the fibres 404, 406, 408 of the plurality of fibres 404,406, 408 may be made of an electrically conducting material. For example, the fibres404, 406, 408 of the plurality of fibres 404, 406, 408 may be made of a materialcomprising or consisting of carbon. However, other materials for the fibres 404, 406,408 of the plurality of fibres 404, 406, 408 are possible, and other electricallyconducting materials, in addition to carbon, for the fibres 404, 406, 408 of the pluralityof fibres 404, 406, 408 are possible.

With reference to Figs. 1 to 6, in general, the device 102 may be made of a compositematerial which comprises a matrix 108. The matrix 108 may be described as a polymerstructure, for example a glue structure, or an epoxy structure. However, othercompositions for the matrix 108 are possible. The 3-dimensiona| woven structure 402and the matrix 108 may be mixed in one or more moulds. The matrix 108 may beintroduced into the mould in liquid form, in manners known to the person skilled in the art. Various ways to produce the device 102 are disclosed in further detail hereinbelow.

With reference to Figs. 1 to 6, it may be defined that the device 102 has an interface110 for the attachment of the device 102 to one of the elements 202. Thus, the interface110 is configured to attach the device 102 to one of the elements 202. Expressedalternatively, the interface 110 of the device 102 is configured for the attachment of thedevice 102 to one of the elements 202. The interface 110 of the device 102 maycomprise at least one protrusion 112, or projection, for protruding into one or morecavities 203, or depressions or recesses, of one of the elements 202, or into a cavity203 of the element 202. With reference to the embodiment shown in Figs. 1 to 6, theinterface 110 of the device 102 may comprise a plurality of protrusions 112 forprotruding into one or more cavities 203 of one of the elements 202, for example two lO 18 protrusions 112 as shown in Figs. 1 to 6. However, in alternative embodiments, theinterface 110 may include fewer or more protrusions 112. The protrusion 112, orprotrusions 112, may be described as extending, or protruding, in radial directions inrelation to a centerline of the through-hole 104. With reference to Fig. 5, the element202 may comprise, or form, a plurality of cavities 203, for example two cavities 203 asshown in Fig. 5. Thus, in the shown embodiment, the two protrusions 112 may beconfigured to protrude into two cavities 203 of the element 202. Expressedalternatively, one of the protrusions 112 may be configured to protrude into one of thecavities 203 of the element 202. However, for alternative embodiments, the element202 may include, or form, fewer or more cavities 203. Advantageously, the shape ofthe protrusion 112 of the interface 110 matches the shape of the cavity 203. Forexample, the protrusion 112 may fit, such as snugly fit, into the cavity 203.

With reference to Figs. 1, 2 and 4 and, the at least one protrusion 112 of the interface110 may surround, however not completely encapsulate, the through hole 104 of thedevice 102. The protrusion 112 may be described as annular. lt may be defined thatthe protrusion 112 surrounds the inner wall 106 of the through hole 104.

With reference to Figs. 3 and 5, the device 102 may comprise a base 114 which formsthe through hole 104 of the device 102. lt may be defined that the base 114 surrounds,however not completely encapsulates, the through hole 104. lt may be defined that thebase 114 surrounds the inner wall 106 of the through hole 104. The protrusion 112, forexample each protrusion 112 of the plurality of protrusions 112, may have a proximalend portion 116 and a distal end portion 118. The proximal end portion 116 isconnected, orjoined, to the base 114. The proximal end portion 116 is located betweenthe distal end portion 118 and the base 114. lt may be defined that the distal endportion 118 is connected to the base 114 via the proximal end portion 116. The distalend portions 118 of the plurality of protrusions 112, for example the distal end portions118 of two protrusions 112 adjacent or next to one another, are spaced apart from oneanother. Expressed alternatively, there is a distance between the distal end portions118. A recess 120 may be formed between, or may be defined by, two of theprotrusions 112, which are adjacent to one another. Expressed alternatively, theplurality of protrusions 112 may include two adjacent protrusions 112 forming a recess lO 19 120 between each other. With reference to Fig. 5, the recess 120 may be configuredto receive one or more portions 204 of one of the elements 202.

With reference to Figs. 4 to 6, and as mentioned above, also a first embodiment of theelement 202 according to the second aspect is schematically illustrated. Only a portionof the element 202 is illustrated in Fig. 5. Thus, the element 202 may be bigger andmay have any kind of shape. As mentioned above, the element 202 may be at leastpartly made of a composite material comprising, or consisting of, one or morecomposite laminates. The composite laminate may be made of fibres and a matrix.The element 202 comprises one or more devices 102 according to any one of theabove- or below-mentioned embodiments. With regard to the first embodiment of theelement 202 according to the second aspect, the element 202 is attached to the device102, and the device 102 is attached to the element 202. ln the embodiment shown inFigs. 4 to 6, the element 202 has one device 102. However, the element 202 may havemore devices 102 than one.

With reference to Fig. 6, and as mentioned above, also an embodiment of themechanical joint 302 according to the third aspect of the invention is schematicallyillustrated. The mechanical joint 302, which may be a mechanical screwjoint, includesone or more elements 202, for example two or more elements 202, according to anyone of the above- or below-mentioned embodiments. Further, the mechanical joint 302includes one or more mechanical joint members 304 received by the one or morethrough holes 104 of the one or more devices 102. ln the shown embodiment, themechanical joint 302 includes one mechanical joint member 304 received by thethrough holes 104 of the devices 102. ln the shown embodiment, the mechanical joint302 includes two elements 202 according to any one the above-mentionedembodiments. However, it is to be understood that fewer or more than two elements202, for example according to any one of the above-mentioned embodiments, may bejoined by the mechanical joint 302. For example, one element 202 according to anyone of the above-mentioned embodiments may be included in the mechanical joint 302and may be mechanically joined to an element, or section, of any other sort by way ofthe mechanical joint 302. The mechanical joint member 304 may be a screw or athreaded bolt 306. However, other mechanical joint members are possible. The lO mechanical joint member 304 may have a head 308, which may be big enough not toengage the through hole 104. The mechanical joint member 304 may be configured toengage a complementary mechanical joint element 310, such as a nut 312, which maybe threaded, more specifically threaded on its inside, for example. The mechanicaljoint 302 may include the complementary mechanical joint element 310. lt may bedefined that that the mechanical joint 302 is configured to mechanically join the one ormore elements 202. lt is to be understood that the mechanical joint may be configuredin several other ways in addition to the configuration illustrated in Fig. 6.

With reference to Figs. 7 to 10, a second embodiment of the device 502 according tothe first aspect of the invention is schematically illustrated. Further, Fig. 10schematically illustrates a second embodiment of the element 602 according to thesecond aspect of the invention. The second embodiments of the device 502 and theelement 602 shown in Figs. 7 to 10 correspond in several aspects to the firstembodiments of the device 102 and the element 202 shown in Figs. 1 to 6. Forexample, the material of the device 502 of Figs. 7 to 10 may correspond to the materialof the device 102 of Figs. 1 to 6. Therefore, only some of the differences between the second embodiments and the first embodiments will be mentioned hereinafter.

The device 502 of Figs. 7 to 10 has an interface 510 for the attachment of the device502 to one of the elements 602, wherein the interface 510 includes three protrusions512 for protruding into one or more cavities 603 of one of the elements 602, or into acavity 603 of the element 602. However, in alternative embodiments, the interface 510may include fewer or more protrusions 512. With reference to Fig. 10, the element 602may comprise, or form, one cavity 603. Thus, in the shown embodiment, the threeprotrusions 512 may be configured to protrude into one and the same cavity 603 of theelement 602. However, for alternative embodiments, the element 602 may include, or form, a plurality of cavities.

Other\Nise, as for the first embodiment of the device 102 according to the first aspect,the second embodiment of the device 502 also includes a corresponding through hole504 for receiving a mechanical joint member 304, an inner wall 506 of the through hole504 and a base 514. lO 21 With reference to Fig. 10, and as mentioned above, also a second embodiment of theelement 602 according to the second aspect is schematically illustrated. Only a portionof the element 602 is illustrated in Fig. 10. Thus, the element 602 may be bigger andmay essentially have any kind of shape. The element 602 comprises one or moredevices 502 according to any one of the above- or below-mentioned embodiments.With regard to the second embodiment of the element 602 according to the secondaspect, the element 602 is attached to the device 502, and the device 502 is attachedto the element 602. ln the embodiment shown in Fig. 10, the element 602 has onedevice 502. Othervvise, the element 602 of Fig. 10 may correspond to the element 202of Figs. 4 to 6. Further, one or more elements 602 of the sort shown in Fig. 10 may bejoined by a mechanical joint member 304, for example a threaded bolt 306, and acomplementary mechanical joint element 310, for example a nut 312, as disclosedabove. However, other mechanical joints are possible. Alternatively, one element 602of the sort shown in Fig. 10 may be mechanically joined to an element, or section, ofany other sort. lt is to be understood that in embodiments the interface 110, 510 of the device 102,502 may have many different configurations or shapes in addition to the interfaces 110,510 disclosed above and in the figures.

With reference to Figs. 13, in a schematic flow chart, aspects of embodiments of themethod for producing a device 102, 502 configured for the mechanical joining of twoor more elements 202, 602 according to the fourth aspect are schematically illustrated,wherein one or more of the two or more elements 202, 602 may, for example, beconfigured according to any one of the embodiments disclosed above, wherein whenthe device 102, 502 has been produced the device 102, 502 is attachable to one 202,602 of the elements 202, 602, and the device 102, 502 forms a through hole 104, 504for receiving a mechanical joint member 304. Embodiments of the method may comprise the following steps: o Producing 701 a 3-dimensional (3D) woven structure 402 by 3-dimensionalweaving. The 3-dimensional woven structure 402 may, for example, be lO 22 configured as illustrated in Figs. 11 and 12 and as disclosed above. However,it is to be understood that other designs, for example more elaborate andcomplex designs, of the 3-dimensiona| woven structure may be produced orwoven; and Producing 702, 702a, 702b the device 102, 502 from a material which comprises the 3-dimensiona| woven structure 402.

The step of producing 702, 702a, 702b the device 102, 502 from a material, which comprises a 3-dimensiona| woven structure 402, may include one or more of the following steps: Producing 702a the device 102, 502 from a material, which comprises a 3-dimensional woven structure 402, wherein the 3-dimensiona| woven structure402 comprises a plurality of fibres 404, 406, 408, wherein the fibres 404, 406,408 of the plurality of fibres 404, 406, 408 are 3-dimensiona| woven by 3-dimensional weaving; and Producing 702b the device from a material, which comprises a 3-dimensiona|woven structure 402, wherein the 3-dimensiona| woven structure 402 isproduced by three or more fibre yarn sets 410, 412, 414, wherein each fibreyarn set 410, 412, 414 comprises one or more fibre yarns 416, 418, 420.

The step of producing 702, 702a, 702b the device 102, 502 from a material, whichcomprises a 3-dimensiona| woven structure 402, may include one or more of thefollowing steps, when the fibres 404, 406, 408 of the plurality of fibres 404, 406, 408are made of an electrically conducting material: Mixing 703 the 3-dimensiona| woven structure 402 with a matrix 108, forexample of the sort disclosed above. When the matrix 108 is mixed with the 3-dimensional woven structure 402, the matrix 108 may be a in liquid form. The3-dimensiona| woven structure 402 and the matrix 108 may be mixed in a mould; and lO 23 o Moulding 704a the device 102, 502 from the 3-dimensional woven structure 402and the matrix 108 while induction heating 704b the 3-dimensional wovenstructure 402 and the matrix 108.

As mentioned above, when the fibres 404, 406, 408 of the plurality of fibres 404, 406,408 are made of an electrically conducting material, for example carbon, the fibrefraction volume can be further increased in the device 102, 502. However, if the fibres404, 406, 408 of the plurality of fibres 404, 406, 408 are not made of an electricallyconducting material, induction heating may still be used to heat the mould, or tool,forming the device 102, 502, when the mould, or tool, is made from an electricallyconducting material. However, the mould, or tool, forming the device 102, 502 may beheated by alternative methods, instead of induction heating, to mould the device 102,502. ln embodiments of the method according to the fourth aspect, the moulding of thedevice 102, 502 may involve injection moulding, reaction injection moulding (RIM), infusion moulding, or vacuum infused moulding. ln some embodiments of the method according to the fourth aspect, the device 102,502 and the element 202, 602, to which the device 102, 502 is to be attached, may bemoulded at the same time or in the same process, for example in one or more moulds,or in the same mould. For example, the 3-dimensional woven structure 402 of thedevice 102, 502 may be placed in the mould and the plies of the element 202, 602 maybe placed in the mould, and at the same time, or before or after, the matrix of both thedevice 102, 502 and the element 202, 602 may be added. Thus, the 3-dimensionalwoven structure 402 of the device 102, 502 and the plies of the element 202, 602 maybe mixed with the matrix at the same time or in the same process. Further, the heatingstep, for example including the heating of the one or more moulds, the material of thedevice 102, 502 and the material of the element 202, 602, may be performed at thesame time, and/or before and/or after, the matrix is mixed with the 3-dimensionalwoven structure 402 of the device 102, 502 and the plies of the element 202, 602. Bymoulding the device 102, 502 and the element 202, 602, to which the device 102, 502 is to be attached, at the same time or in the same process, an advantageous and lO 24 efficient interface 110, for example as disclosed above, between the device 102, 502and the element 202, 602 may be attained. However, in some embodiments of themethod according to the fourth aspect, the device 102, 502 and the element 202, 602may be moulded separately, and thereafter attached to one another. lt is to be understood that one or more additional steps may be added to the method.Some of the above-mentioned steps may be repeated or performed at the same time.lt is to be understood that one or more of the above-mentioned steps may be excluded.

With reference to Fig. 14, an embodiment of the vehicle 800 according to the fifthaspect of the invention is schematically illustrated. ln Fig. 14, the vehicle 800 isillustrated as a tractor vehicle. However, in other embodiments, the vehicle 800 may,for example, be a bus, a truck, or a car. Other types of vehicles are possible. Thevehicle 800 may be an electric vehicle, EV, for example a hybrid vehicle or a hybridelectric vehicle, HEV, or a battery electric vehicle, BEV.

With reference to Fig. 14, the vehicle 800 may be a wheeled vehicle, i.e. a vehicle 800having wheels 850. Only the wheels 850 on the left-hand side of the vehicle 800 arevisible in Fig. 14. lt is to be understood that the vehicle 800 may have fewer or morewheels than what is shown in Fig. 14. The vehicle 800 may comprise a powertrain 852,for example configured for one of an EV, HEV and BEV, or configured for a combustionengine 854 only. lt is to be understood that the vehicle 800 may include further unites,components, such as electrical and/or mechanical components, a combustion engine854 and other devices required for a vehicle 800, such as for an EV, HEV or BEV.

With reference to Fig. 14, the vehicle 800 comprises one or more of the group of: adevice 102, 502 according to any one of the above-mentioned embodiments; anelement 202, 602 according to any one of the above-mentioned embodiments; and amechanical joint 302 according to any one of the above-mentioned embodiments. Theelements 202, 602 to bejoined may be located in the combustion engine 854 and may,for example, be part of the combustion engine 854, or may be located anywhere elsein the vehicle 800, for example in the chassis of the vehicle 800. The element 202, 602 to be mechanicallyjoined, or attached, to another element, or section, may for example lO comprise a beam, a part of a beam, a frame, a part of a frame, a partition, a part of apartition, a shield, a cover, or the like. ln some embodiments of the vehicle 800, the vehicle 800 may comprise at least twostructures, or sections, to be mechanicallyjoined, or attached, to one another. At leastone of the structures, for example both structures, may include an element 202, 602according to any one of the embodiments disclosed above. The structures may bemechanically joined, or attached to one another, by way of one or more devices 102,502 according to any one of the above-mentioned embodiments and/or by way of oneor more mechanical joints 302 according to any one of the above-mentionedembodiments.

Thus, for example, when one element 202, 602 comprises a beam and anotherelement 202, 602 comprises a partition, the beam and partition may be mechanicallyjoined by way of one or more devices 102, 502 according to any one of the above-mentioned embodiments and/or by way of one or more mechanical joints 302according to any one of the above-mentioned embodiments. Correspondingly, a partof a frame may be joined to another part of a frame, or a part of a beam may be joinedto a beam, etc., by way of one or more devices 102, 502 according to any one of theabove-mentioned embodiments and/or by way of one or more mechanical joints 302according to any one of the above-mentioned embodiments. lt is to be understood that other applications of the embodiments of the device 102,502, the element 202, 602 and the mechanical joint 302, in addition to an applicationto a vehicle 800, are possible.

The present invention is not limited to the above described embodiments. lnstead, thepresent invention relates to, and encompasses all different embodiments beingincluded within the scope of the appended independent claims.

Claims

1. A device (102; 502) for the mechanical joining of two or more elements (202;602), wherein the device (102; 502) is attachable to one (202; 602) of the elements(202; 602), wherein the device (102; 502) forms a through hole (104; 504) for receiving amechanical joint member (304), and wherein the device (102; 502) is made of a composite material comprising a 3-dimensional woven structure (402).

2. A device (102; 502) according to claim 1, wherein the device (102; 502) isattachable to one (202; 602) of the elements (202; 602) which is at least partly made of a composite material comprising one or more composite laminates.

3. A device (102; 502) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the 3-dimensional woven structure (402) is produced by 3-dimensional weaving.

4. A device (102; 502) according to any one of the claims 1 to 3, wherein the 3-dimensional woven structure (402) comprises a plurality of fibres (404, 406, 408) which are 3-dimensional woven.

5. A device (102; 502) according to claim 4, wherein each fibre (404, 406, 408)of the plurality of fibres (404, 406, 408) has a longitudinal extension.

6. A device (102; 502) according to claim 5, wherein the longitudinal extensionsof the plurality of fibres (404, 406, 408) extend in at least three different directions (x, y, 2)-

7. A device (102; 502) according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the longitudinalextensions of the plurality of fibres (404, 406, 408) are entangled in at least threedifferent directions (x, y, z).

8. A device (102; 502) according to any one of the claims 4 to 7, wherein thefibres (404, 406, 408) of the plurality of fibres (404, 406, 408) are made of an electricallyconducting material.

9. A device (102; 502) according to any one of the claims 1 to 8, wherein thedevice (102; 502) comprises an interface (110; 510) for the attachment of the device(102; 502) to one of the elements (202; 602), and wherein the interface (110; 510)comprises at least one protrusion (112; 512) for protruding into one or more cavities(203; 603) of one (202; 602) of the elements (202; 602).

10. A device (102; 502) according to claim 9, wherein the at least one protrusion(112; 512) surrounds the through hole (104; 504).

11. A device (102; 502) according to any one of the claims 1 to 10, wherein thedevice (102) comprises a base (114), which forms the through hole (104), and an interface (1 12) for the attachment of the device (102) to one of the elements(202), wherein the interface (112) comprises a plurality of protrusions (112) forprotruding into one or more cavities (203) of one (202) of the elements (202), wherein each protrusion (1 12) of the plurality of protrusions (112) comprises aproximal end portion (116) and a distal end portion (118), wherein the proximal end portion (116) is connected to the base (114) and islocated between the distal end portion (118) and the base (114), and wherein the distal end portions (118) of the plurality of protrusions (112) arespaced apart from one another.

12. A device (102; 502) according to claim 11, wherein the plurality of protrusions(112) comprises two adjacent protrusions (112) forming a recess (120) between eachother.

13. A device (102) according to claim 12, wherein the recess (120) is configuredto receive one or more portions (204) of one of the elements (202).

14. An element (202; 602) comprising one or more devices (102; 502) accordingto any one of the claims 1 to 13, wherein the device (102; 502) is attached to theelement (202; 602).

15. An element according to claim 14, wherein the element is at least partly made of a composite material comprising one or more composite laminates.

16. A mechanical joint (302) comprising one or more elements (202; 602)according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the mechanical joint (302) comprises one or moremechanical joint members (304) received by the one or more through holes (104; 504) of the one or more devices (102; 502).

17. A method for producing a device (102; 502) for the mechanical joining of twoor more elements (202; 602),wherein the device (102; 502) is attachable to one (202; 602) of the elements(202; 602), andwherein the device (102; 502) forms a through hole (104; 504) for receiving amechanical joint member (304), wherein the method comprises:o producing (702) the device (102; 502) from a material comprising a 3-dimensional woven structure (402).

18. A method according to claim 17, wherein the method comprises:o producing (701) the 3-dimensional woven structure (402) by 3-dimensional weaving.

19. A method according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the method comprises:o producing (702a) the device (102; 502) from a material comprising a 3-dimensional woven structure (402) which comprises a plurality of fibres (404,406, 408) which are 3-dimensional woven by 3-dimensional weaving.

20. A method according to c|aim 19, wherein the method comprises: o producing (702b) the device (102; 502) from a material comprising a 3-dimensional woven structure (402) which is produced by three or more fibreyarn sets (410, 412, 414), each fibre yarn set (410, 412, 414) comprising one ormore fibre yarns (416, 418, 420).

21. A method according to c|aim 19 or 20, wherein the fibres (404, 406, 408) ofthe plurality of fibres (404, 406, 408) are made of an electrically conducting material,and wherein the method comprises:o moulding (704a) the device (102; 502) from the 3-dimensiona| woven structure(402) and a matrix (108) while induction heating the 3-dimensiona| wovenstructure (402) and the matrix (108).

22. A vehicle (800) comprising one or more of the group of:o a device (102; 502) according to any one of the claims 1 to 13;o an element (202; 602) according to c|aim 14 or 15; and o a mechanical joint (302) according to c|aim 16.