Tent pole and method of manufacture therefor

摘要

A flexible, multi-segmented support structure, and method for manufacturing same, particularly suited for use as a tent pole, wherein the support structure includes a plurality of tubular segments and each segment is connected to its adjacent segment or segments by lengths of elastic shock cord, the cord having sleeves affixed to each end thereof which can be affixed in partly or fully automated fashion to the respective segments. A novel ferrule is included to provide rigidity at the junctions of the segments, without providing undue stress concentration and to further assist in automating the manufacturing process.