Patent ID: 6061902
Filing Date: 2000-05-16
Classification: B29C,H01B,Y02W,Y10T

Abstract:
A method for recovering leads embedded within a composite structure comprised of a plurality of fibers embedded within a matrix material, wherein the method comprises the steps of:cutting completely through the composite structure and the embedded lead at a first cut location;cutting into the composite structure at a second cut location spaced from the first cut location to thereby form a composite plug surrounding an end portion of the lead, wherein said step of cutting at the second cut location comprises:selecting the second cut location to coincide with a protective sleeve that surrounds the lead, wherein the protective sleeve surrounds only a portion of the lead such that the lead extends outwardly beyond at least one end of the protective sleeve; andterminating said cutting step upon reaching the protective sleeve that surrounds the lead such that the protective sleeve is not completely severed; andremoving the composite plug such that the end portion of the lead and the surrounding protective sleeve extend beyond the end of the composite structure defined by the second cut location.