Edge joint for light shell structures - has locking wedges fitted through interlocking U-section members on structure edges

摘要

A rapid method of assembly of lightweight shell structures providing uniform stress distribution at the joints is described. The joint fittings are light in weight, easy to fabricate, allow simple calculation of stresses and are particularly suitable for aircraft structures. The mating edges of the panels are fitted with U section members (1) whose edges are castellated (3) or dovetailed, so that the edges of two members on adjacent panels interlock. When positioned in the same plane, the edges are held together by double wedges (5) which are inserted in the channel formed by the U section members and then drawn in opposite directions to tighten. These wedges may consists of a series of meshing saw teeth if desired.