Joint for introducing loads into a fiber reinforced composite tube or bar is formed by insertion of additional curable composite material between slits at the bar end

摘要

One end of a fiber composite bar(1) is slit to create narrow, elastically deformable strips(2). Additional fiber composite material(6) is added and combined with the strips to form a load introduction joint for the bar. Additional composite material(6) is inserted into the center of the slit strips. A fiberous fabric tube or braid(7) drawn over the outside of the strips and presses the latter radially inwards onto the additional composite material. The joint forms a transition section in which the cross-section continuously changes from round(4) to rectangular(5). In the bar section with a rectangular cross-section two opposing rectangular areas(10) are removed to create a yoke-type connector(11). An alternative type of joint suited to torsion loading comprises a transition section with a cross-section changing from circular to equal-sided polygon, in particular square or hexagonal. In a design for incorporating a swiveling bearing a flat precured fiber composite laminate is inserted into the bar and bonded in position before fiber rovings are wound continuously around the outside of the bar. A transverse pin may be included close to the acute angled tip of the laminate . An Independent claim is included for a method of forming a joint for directing load into a composite bar in which a core(3) coated in release agent and covered with a resin impregnated, though not yet cured, fiber composite material is inserted into the slit bar end, the resin is cured and the core removed.