Abstract: A method for forming a 360 degree integral skin handle in a thermoplastic part for use in automotive trim products includes the steps of forming a mold with a partial recess closed by a removable plug and thereafter selectively directing heat from a first source through the mold and from a second source through the plug to form a completely closed, curved, heated tube surface and thereafter casting thermoplastic material against the curved, heated tube surface to fuse and cure a layer of material thereon in the form of a tube skin segment which is releasable from the mold when the plug is removed. Apparatus for practicing the method includes a mold with a recess therein and a plug is supported on the mold for movement into a position for closing the tube surface and into a demolding position for releasing the molded part.

Abstract: An apparatus for practicing a method for forming a 360 degree integral skin handle in a thermoplastic part for use in automotive trim products. The apparatus includes a mold with a recess therein and a plug being supported on the mold for movement into a position for closing the tube surface and into a demolding position for releasing the molded part. A heater device directs heat from a first source through the mold and from a second source through the plug to form a completely closed, curved, heated tube surface on which thermoplastic material is cast against the curved, heated tube surface to fuse and cure a layer of material thereon in the form of a tube skin segment which is releasable from the mold when the plug is removed.

Abstract: A method for forming a 360 degree integral skin handle in a thermoplastic part for use in automotive trim products includes the steps of forming a mold with a prtial recess closed by a removable plug and thereafter selectively directing heat from a first source through the mold and from a second source through the plug to form a completely closed, curved, heated tube surface and thereafter casting thermoplastic material against the curved, heated tube surface to fuse and cure a layer of material thereon in the form of a tube skin segment which is releasable from the mold when the plug is removed. Apparatus for practicing the method includes a mold with a recess therein and a plug is supported on the mold for movement into a position for closing the tube surface and into a demolding position for releasing the molded part.

Abstract: A pour mold includes two parts one of which forms a mold cavity and the other of which forms the lid for the mold cavity; the lid includes a retractable pilot pin and vacuum cups for positioning a mold insert within the mold cavity automatically upon lid closure. The pilot pin loosely pilots the insert in the mold as it closes and as the vacuum cups pull the insert toward the lid during such closure. The vacuum cups hold the insert against the lid continuously during foam injection, foam reaction and cure and as the lid is separated from the mold cavity part so as to automatically remove the finished part from the mold when the lid is separated therefrom.