Connector assembly and method of forming same

Abstract

A connector assembly that is subjected to alternating loads by an axial flow of force between zero and various maximum values, with an outer assembly component designed as a hollow section and an inner assembly component located in the outer one and fitting by virtue of its shape. In order to detect failure of the assembly caused by a fatigue fracture produced by overloads at the end point in the assembly direction, even before it develops, in a simple fashion within the functional assembly, the assembly comprises a rear area with play that begins at the end of the connection that points in the assembly direction and a forward zero-play area of the inner assembly component that abuts the latter and is located inside the outer assembly component. The transition between the areas forms a desired breakage location between the two ends of the connection, at which point one of the assembly components, upon the formation of a locally defined crack that runs in the transverse direction of the assembly, breaks as a result of fatigue after a certain number of overloads. The distance of the required breakage location from the ends of the connection is so dimensioned and the cooperation of the assembly components is so designed that the inner assembly component within the outer assembly component forms a residual assembly that can withstand alternating loads after fracture.