Fiber reinforced composite shaft with metallic connector sleeves mounted by a knurl interlock

Abstract

A tubular fiber reinforced composite shaft is formed (as described) which integrally incorporates a metal sleeve or connection at the end thereof. Initially a metal sleeve having knurls on its outer surface is positioned upon a segment of a mandrel. Fibrous material bearing a non-solidified resinous material is applied around the mandrel and around the knurls and is locked between spaced knurl projections. Additional fibrous material bearing the non-solidified resinous material is applied to the previously applied material. The resinous material next is solidified to form a tubular composite shaft whereby a secure torsion-transmitting connection is made with the sleeve, and the mandrel is removed. Alternatively, an outer sleeve can be inserted after the additional fibrous material has been applied to the first-named sleeve. The outer sleeve has knurls on an inner surface thereof and is pressed against the fibrous material as by swagging. Outer ends of the inner and outer sleeves are welded together after the resinous material is solidified.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.