Abstract: The invention is directed to a method for adapting injection molding machines utilizing horizontally opening and closing molds and their opening and closing mechanisms to vertically opening and closing molds and their opening and closing mechanisms and vice versa. An injection molding machine might, for example, be utilized to inject hot synthetic resin substantially horizontally into a cavity between horizontally opening and closing molds associated with horizontally opening and closing mechanisms. This horizontal mold and its opening and closing mechanism is removed relative to the injection molding machine and substituted therefor is a vertically opening and closing mold and its associated vertically opening and closing mechanisms. The hot plastic material from the horizontal injection molding machine is initially constrained in movement horizontally but subsequently vertically into the cavity of the vertically opening mold.

Abstract: An apparatus for making an encapsulated shelf assembly includes a mold defining a mold cavity. A shelf panel and a shelf support bracket extend partially into the mold cavity. The shelf support bracket is spaced from the sides of the mold by the head of a post on one side and a nut on the other side. The post head and nut are partially encapsulated by a moldable material injected into the mold cavity. The nut and post head are removable from the mold cavity with the encapsulated shelf assembly.

Abstract: An encapsulated shelf assembly has a shelf support supporting a panel. The panel has an edge and a one piece member encapsulates the panel edge and a substantial majority of the shelf support. The encapsulated shelf assembly may be formed in a mold apparatus which defines a mold cavity and uses a spacing plug to position the shelf support in a mold cavity of the mold apparatus in a location spaced from the sides of the mold cavity.

Abstract: An encapsulated shelf with pre-encapsulated bracket, and preferably adapted for use in refrigeration and/or freezer compartments, includes a glass or other panel supported by a support such as a bracket having a cover encapsulating a substantial majority thereof and a flange extending into and interconnecting with a rim formed separately from the panel and around an edge of the panel. The rim and cover preferably engage and cooperate with one another. A slide rail may be integrally formed in one piece with the encapsulating cover. The support includes holes extending through the support for mechanical interconnection with the rim and cover. The support may also be provided with a mounting portion adapted to couple with a refrigerator wall or the like at a variety of vertical locations. The rim may further define a spill dam to contain spills on the panel surface, while additional brackets or stiffeners may be included for extra wide shelves.