US 5,188,872 A · Composite structural member with high bending strength

Abstract

A composite member (10) features a unique ply geometry which contributes to improved bending strength. The composite is constructed of a plurality of plies, each comprising a fiber component disposed within a polymer matrix. An inner ply (16) has a fiber component (18) which has fibers which are circumferentially extending. An intermediate ply (22) has first axially extending fibers (24) which are disposed about the circumference of the composite, as well as second axial fibers (30) which are interwoven with helically oriented fibers (36) and embedded in a polymer matrix (14). An outer layer (38) is similar to the inner layer as it features circumferentially extending fibers (40) which are embedded in a polymer matrix. The composite materials may be used to manufacture a wide range of items which require light weight combined with high strength.

Claims18

Dependent claims

A tubular composite structural member having a plurality of plies, each ply being defined by a fiber component disposed within a polymer matrix, said composite member having the improvement comprising

A. at least one inner ply having circumferentially extending fibers,
B. at least one outer ply having circumferentially extending fibers, and
C. at least one intermediate ply having
i) first axially extending fibers in circumferentially-spaced sets with circumferential gaps between each set of the first fibers, and
ii) second axially extending fibers in circumferentially-spaced sets disposed in said circumferential gaps, each said second fiber being interwoven with helically oriented fibers,
said inner, outer and intermdiate plies forming a tubular, elongate composite structural member.

3 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Composite structural member with high bending strength

Life of this patent

Composite structural member with high bending strength

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims18