Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

An axial load support member (17, 19, 28, 30, 32, 34, 38, 40) and method of manufacture achieves high load bearing capability with reduced weight and volume. A member is made by a process that includes providing at least three chamber profile preforms (2), each of which is comprised of a pair of deformable metal sheet walls (3) which bound a sealed internal chamber (14). After providing the preform the method includes in any order, a joining step and a fluid pressure delivering step. The joining step includes joining the at least three preforms together along a central member axis (4). The pressure delivery step includes delivering fluid pressure to the respective chamber of each preform such that the walls thereof are deformed and extend further away from one another with increased radial distance away from the central member axis.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim