Abstract: A preform (11) is formed from sprayed binder and chopped fibers from respective nozzles (21) and (18) onto a foraminous screen (14). A plurality of nozzles (33) are circumferentially spaced about nozzles (21) and (18) and provide heated air to cure the binder. The nozzles (18),(21), and (33) are affixed to each other and are mounted onto a gantry (32) for relative motion with respect to the screen (14). The heated air cures the preform (11) simultaneously with it formation.

Abstract: A composite plastic article is provided which includes an improved boss for fastening the article to a supporting structure. The composite article includes a decorative outer skin co-molded to a reinforced foam layer. The foam layer is formed from a foaming resin such as polyurethane in an exothermic reaction. The boss is formed as a part of the foam layer and protrudes through the insert. A metallic fibrous material such as steel wool is molded into the boss to give the boss added structural integrity and to remove heat generated during formation of the boss and foam layer to thereby reduce cracking of the boss and localized blistering and delamination of the outer skin. A method for making such a boss is also provided.

Abstract: A vehicle door system (10) for reducing the impact of a person against the door when the vehicle undergoes a side impact. The system includes an inner door panel (14) mounted to a door frame (12) in spaced apart fashion. The inner panel (14) is mounted to the frame (12) with a plurality of shock absorbing fasteners (20) which absorbs some of the kinetic energy transmitted from the door frame to the person.

Abstract: A bumper fastening system for a composite SRIM (structural reaction injected molded) member made up of a core member covered by a reinforced outer cover has a fastening cup connected to the reinforced outer cover by a layer of adhesive material. The fastening cup is a hollow rectangle with a flat end plate which is covered by a layer of adhesive for connection to the composite SRIM or to a metal bumper by spot welds. The hollow rectangle has a depth which will engage it with crush convolutions on frame rails of a vehicle frame. Mating holes in the hollow rectangle and the side rails receive mechanical fasteners for removably attaching the bumper assembly on the frame rails during installation at the automobile assembly plant and for replacement/repair of a damaged bumper.

Abstract: Vertical stripes of asphalt are applied to the exterior of the basement wall, and glass fiber insulating boards with an asphalt coating on one side are applied to the exterior of the basement wall with the asphalt coating facing the wall and joints between boards disposed at the stripes.