Patent ID: 9447802
Filing Date: 2016-09-20
CPC Classification: B29C,B29D,F16B,Y10T

Claim Text:
1. A multi-branch fitting formed by molding layers of a composite material, the fitting comprising: a plurality of at least three flanged fitting parts, each fitting part formed by folding a layer of composite material and comprising a pair of substantially planar flanges connected at an angle along respective longitudinal edges thereof by a curved folded spine portion, each respective flange being joined to a flange of another one of the plurality of fitting parts; wherein corresponding flanges of adjacent fitting parts are joined back-to-back against each other to form a plurality of at least three branches radially extending from an enclosed joining area comprising concave sides defined by the curved spine portions of the fitting parts, each branch being generally flat and having a first face portion defined by a first respective flange and an opposing second face portion defined by a second respective flange, each face portion comprising a plurality of holes extending therethrough for receiving attachment fasteners, each branch forming a branch angle with an adjacent branch; wherein a fold angle between the flanges of each fitting part corresponds to a respective branch angle between adjacent branches; wherein the folded spine portion of each fitting part comprises undulations extending along a longitudinal direction of the spine portion, the undulations defined by at least a first domed portion and a first hollow portion, each domed portion being convex facing outward toward respective branches and outward from a longitudinal axis of the joining area, and each hollow portion being concave facing away from respective branches and inward toward the longitudinal axis of the joining area; and wherein corresponding flanges of adjacent fitting parts are assembled back-to-back against each other such that each hollow portion of a first respective fitting part is matingly received within a corresponding domed portion of a second respective fitting part.