Three-dimensionally printed designable joint for carbon fibre reinforced plastics

Three-dimensional (3D) printing of carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) components shows promise for building light-weight strong components for industry. Many structures require multiple components to be joined to form the completed parts. However, tightening of metal bolts used to join CFRP can damage the composite and the bonding strength of adhesive bonding is variable. Here, we propose a new joint system, based on all-3D printed parts. Snap-in joints and Ajax-pins induce a mechanical joining force at the interface between parts, together with a bearing force. This joint system offers comparable strength to that of adhesive and metal bolt joints, while adding negligible weight to the parts. Furthermore, 3D printing of the surface structures, holes and pins enables unprecedented control over the joint design, enabling strength optimization through the thickness and in-place directions as required. The Snap-in joint system shows great potential for the fabrication of strong light-weight 3D printed structures.