Importance

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Abstract

A modular cylinder comprises a plurality of, in this case 24, modules each having a tongue to engage a groove of its neighbor and each either having a camming ramp to engage a camming ramp of its neighbor, or a filler rod inserted between adjacent modules at each interface. Where the camming means are provided, (n-1) of the modules can be placed into engagement to define an almost complete cylinder and can then be strained in a radially outward direction to provide space for the final module which is placed in position by sliding longitudinally of the gap. Where the filler rods are used, all of the n modules may be loosely assembled in a first operation and the filler rods can be inserted in a second operation to pre-stress the cylinder. The radially outer panel of each module has a biconvex cross-section whereby the outer surface thereof defines a sector of the cylindrical surface of the finished modular cylinder but the neutral axis of bending of the panel is straight and parallel to the tangent of the outer surface at the center of the cross-section of that outer panel. If desired, at least one reinforcing hoop may be placed inside the modular cylinder to increase its rigidity.

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First Claim