Abstract: A fiber reinforced composite shaft bearing a metallic flanged end coupling (Fl) attached to the outside diameter through a concentric cylindrical torsional joint, comprising: a) a cylindrical end region comprising a wedge shaped inner layer of fiber (Hp) composite; b) a layer of outer helical composite plies (He) forming the shaft and extending over the wedge shaped inner layer, wherein the layer of outer helical plies has a tapered end part overlying wedge shaped inner layer to form the cylindrical end portion, wherein all helical plies of fibre layers are exposed on an outer surface; and c) a metallic flanged end coupling attached to the outer surface of the cylindrical end region through a primary mechanically interface (Sp) which may be splined. The joint may be strengthened by internally reinforcing the main shaft with an interference fit tubular plug (Pg) and protected from environmental degradation by inboard secondary adhesive bond (Ad).

Abstract: A composite material for acoustic or mechanical damping, comprising a plurality of layers of fibrous material embedded in a solid material. The solid material layers are interspersed by perforated films of viscoelastic polymer.

Abstract: A fibre reinforced composite shaft bearing a metallic flanged end coupling (F1) attached to the outside diameter through a concentric cylindrical torsional joint, comprising: a)—a cylindrical end region comprising a wedge shaped inner layer of fibre (Hp) composite; b)—a layer of outer helical composite plies (He) forming the shaft and extending over the wedge shaped inner layer, wherein the layer of outer helical plies has a tapered end part overlying wedge shaped inner layer to form the cylindrical end portion, wherein all helical plies of fibre layers are exposed on an outer surface; and c)—a metallic flanged end coupling attached to the outer surface of the cylindrical end region through a primary mechanically interface (Sp) which may be splined. The joint may be strengthened by internally reinforcing the main shaft with an interference fit tubular plug (Pg) and protected from environmental degradation by inboard secondary adhesive bond (Ad).

Abstract: A portable antitheft locking mechanism for a motor vehicle steering wheel and brake pedal, e.g., a J-bar, having plural lighting elements, such as light emitting diodes, which generally indicate the profile of the locking mechanism so that it may be seen in darkness before forcible entry. The J-bar includes an independent source of power, such as a battery, which energizes the lighting elements either when the J-bar engages the vehicle member or when the access lock is secured, or both. The lighting elements provide means to inform the thief of the J-bar during darkness so as to deter his ill-intended efforts and spare the owner of unnecessary physical damage resulting from forcible entry. The J-bar preferably includes contact switch element which closes upon engagement with the steering wheel and/or a microswitch responsive to securement of an access lock on the mechanism to activate the lights thereby to conserve source when not in use.