Abstract: An extruded connector has a bifurcated edge with a generally C-shaped cross section for engaging an enlarged edge of an adjacent panel. When changing the temperature conditions surrounding the connector, the bifurcated edge contracts and clamps the enlarged edge of the panel. The structural frame member is fastened to the connector at an edge opposite the bifurcated edge for completing a strong rigid connection between the panel and the frame member.

Abstract: A number of distributed springs, fabricated from memory metal alloy, are connected to a die in a molding assembly. When heat is applied to the springs, they expand with sufficient force to mold a resin-impregnated composite material over a contoured mold form. The heat may be simultaneously applied to the composite material for achieving curing while molding occurs. Upon removal of the heat, the springs contract thereby allowing removal of a finished molded product.

Abstract: An extruded connector has a bifurcated edge with a generally C-shaped cross section for engaging an enlarged edge of an adjacent panel. When changing the temperature conditions surrounding the connector, the bifurcated edge contracts and clamps the enlarged edge of the panel. The structural frame member is fastened to the connector at an edge opposite the bifurcated edge for completing a strong rigid connection between the panel and the frame member.

Abstract: A base layer of fabric sheets impregnated with bonding material is deposited on a mold form. A plurality of parallel spaced hollow cores, fabricated from memory metal alloy, are positioned on the base layer. An overlying layer is then positioned over the cores and the base layer, the overlying layer also being impregnated with bonding material. The assembly is subjected to heat and pressure to cure all the layers. The core is then subjected to a critical temperature causing the core to shrink and permitting its easy removal. The result is a base layer to which the overlying layer is bonded, the overlying layer characterized by corrugations which stiffen the entire structure and increase its structural strength.

Abstract: A method for working holes in metal which includes inserting into the hole a sleeve of metal having a shape memory O. D. slightly smaller than the hole to be worked, plastically expanding the sleeve in such hole with a mandrel and working the wall of such hole around the sleeve, allowing the sleeve to warm and shrink to its shape memory O. D. and removing the shrunken sleeve from the worked hole.