Patent ID: 7754046

Claim:
A process of producing a hollow column or rod comprising: providing a plurality of hollow elongated modules made from fiber-reinforced resin and having central portions of substantially constant cross-sections, each of the modules having at least one of a male or female terminal portion, wherein the male terminal portion comprises a base having a cross-section wider than the central portions and an inwardly tapered extension protruding from the base and radially recessed from the base, and wherein the female portion comprises an outwardly tapered extension having a free end with a cross section wider than the central portions and dimensioned to mate with the male terminal portion such to provide the column or rod with a flush outer profile; aligning the modules axially causing each male portion to face one female portion; disposing an adhesive product on at least a portion of one or more of the male and female portions; mating the male portions with the female portions by applying a compressive force against free ends of the first and last modules and causing contact between the male portions, the adhesive product, and the female portions; and causing the adhesive product to cure.