Pultrusion Method and Related Article

Abstract

A method of forming a reinforced composite structure comprises providing a plurality of fiberglass rovings to a resin applicator. The plastic applicator has an inlet, an outlet, and a plastic applicator cavity such that the rovings enter the plastic applicator through the inlet and exit through the outlet. The inlet and outlet are relatively positioned to spread out the rovings. Resin-containing rovings are directed between a first fiberglass matt and a second fiberglass matt and then cured. A joint that connects two frame members formed by the method of the invention is provided.

1 .- 15 . (canceled) 
   
   
       16 . A joint for attaching frame members together, the joint comprising:
 a first frame member, the first frame member including a first substantially rectangular surface having a first length and first width and a second substantially rectangular surface having a second length and a second width, the first width being greater than the second width;   a second frame member having a wall that defines a first interior cavity, the second frame member including a first end, a second end, a third substantially rectangular surface, and a fourth substantially rectangular surface, the first end being angled relative to a plane perpendicular to the third substantially rectangular surface; and   a fastener comprising:
 a body section; 
 one or more flange sections extending from the body section, the flanged sections attached to a side of the second frame member; 
 an insert section extending from the body section, the insert section positioned within the interior cavity of the second frame member; and 
 an angled stop surface defined by a surface of the body section, the angled stop surface oriented at a mating angle that matches the angle of the second frame member such that when the insert section is positioned within the interior cavity the first end is adjacent to the angled stop surface. 
   
   
   
       17 . The joint of  claim 16  wherein the first interior cavity has a non-rectangular cross-section. 
   
   
       18 . The joint of  claim 17  wherein the non-rectangular cross-section is substantially I-shaped or H-shaped. 
   
   
       19 . The joint of  claim 16  wherein the first and second frame members each individually comprise a pultruded component. 
   
   
       20 . The joint of  claim 16  wherein the first and second frame members each comprise substantially the same cross-section.