With Destruction Of Pattern To Disassociate Patents (Class 164/34)
  • Patent number: 8733421
    Abstract: An evaporative pattern casting process includes forming a mold by burying a pattern made of resin foam in casting sand, pouring molten metal into the mold, and evaporating the pattern with the molten metal and thereby casting a product. In the evaporative pattern casting process, casting time during founding is set according to a modulus (pattern volume÷pattern surface area) of the pattern. Accordingly, the casting time in the evaporative pattern casting process is accurately set with high precision.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Fumio Hirai, Osami Ito, Hiroyuki Yamada, Hiroshi Ichikawa, Hidetaka Hokazono, Tomohiko Yamamoto, Kosuke Murai
  • Publication number: 20140102656
    Abstract: A casting core assembly includes a metallic core and a ceramic core. A protuberant portion of a metallic core is received in a compartment of the ceramic core.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: UNITED TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Tracy A Propheter-Hinckley, Eric A Hansen
  • Patent number: 8678071
    Abstract: A lightweight metal mold having a necessary rigidity is realized. Firstly, an original pattern of an evaporative pattern is formed by machining an evaporative material block. The original pattern includes a three-dimensional mesh structure including a plurality of bar-shaped parts and connecting points that connect ends of the bar-shaped parts and are distributed in a three-dimensional space, and a plurality of block parts having fixed relative positional relationship by being fixed to the three-dimensional mesh structure. Then, at least a portion of at least one or more of the bar-shaped parts composing the original pattern is removed, and replaced with a tube member. Then, a full-mold casting is performed by using the evaporative pattern having the replaced tube member. Positional relationship of the block parts in which surfaces, etc. necessary for the metal mold are formed is fixed by the three-dimensional mesh structure, and the necessary rigidity is secured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hirotake Sueta, Kiyoshi Kameyama, Atsushi Takemoto, Tatsuya Watarai, Hitoshi Akimoto, Masaki Yamashita
  • Publication number: 20140079582
    Abstract: We describe a lattice part made of metal and a method for producing a lattice part made of metal or a metal alloy. The lattice has a thickness of less than 1 mm at a size of the gaps of less than 50 mm2. The lattice (5) comprises a connection made of knots, and perpendicular to the lattice surface has lattice bars and lattice knots of the same thickness. A method for the production of a lattice part made of metal, particularly made of light alloy, is characterized by a primary shaping process according to DIN 8580, wherein a mold is formed in the first step, a primary material is introduced in the mold cavity in the second step, the part is removed from the mold in the third step, and the finishing of the metallic lattice part is carried out in the fourth step.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2013
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Applicant: AIT AUSTRIAN INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY GMBH
    Inventors: RUDOLF ZAUNER, FRANZ RIEMELMOSER, MANFRED BAMMER
  • Patent number: 8622113
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for directionally controlled rapid solidification of a molten metal casting provides modified mold flasks containing mold media defining a mold cavity into which molten metal is poured and thereafter solidified. The mold media is fluid permeable and electrically and thermally conductive so that coolants passing through the media conduct heat away from the molten metal to promote solidification. Apparatus carried upon and within the mold flask allow controlled application of coolants to dissipate heat in a controlled manner to promote solidification in a controlled direction. Ports defined in the flasks, spaces between the mold media particulates and coolant, directionally applied by a movable cooling ring provide controlled directional cooling and castings having improved mechanical characteristics, with greater speed and increased efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventor: Charles B. Rau, III
  • Publication number: 20130220570
    Abstract: A method comprising the use of additive manufacturing techniques for creating molds and pattern parts for subsequent use in the casting of die components and die shoes for use in die stamping processes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 29, 2012
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: Ford Motor Company
    Inventors: Harold P. Sears, James Todd Kloeb, Evangelos Liasi, Larry Edward Ellis, Ronald Hasenbusch, John Philips, Alan Lawrence Jacobson
  • Publication number: 20130108459
    Abstract: The disclosure relates generally to mold compositions and methods of molding and the articles so molded. More specifically, the disclosure relates to mold compositions and methods for casting titanium-containing articles, and the titanium-containing articles so molded.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2011
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventor: Bernard Patrick BEWLAY
  • Patent number: 8424186
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing an electric machine, made up of a housing, a stator accommodated in the housing, which is formed from a stator body and stator windings, a rotor, which is supported in the housing so as to be rotatable about a rotor axis, and a bearing support fastened on the housing, includes a housing foam part manufactured from at least three individual foam parts and a housing cast blank manufactured using the housing foam part in accordance with a lost foam casting method. Individual foam parts are made up of a center disk having an essentially hollow-cylindrical design and forming an intermediate piece of a housing foam part, an annular disk having an essentially hollow-cylindrical design and forming another intermediate piece of the housing foam part, and a bearing support disk having an essentially cup-shaped design and forming an end of the housing foam part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Denis Kern, Andreas Herzberger
  • Publication number: 20120298321
    Abstract: A knuckle for a railway coupler system is made without internal voids or cores. Instead, external pockets are formed on the front face and tail portion surface to reduce weight. The knuckle is formed by investment casting, which permits a pulling face to be provided without a draft angle or parting line typical of a cast part. As a result of these innovations, the knuckle according to the invention has an improved fatigue life.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2012
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Applicant: STRATO, INC.
    Inventor: Andrew Smyth
  • Patent number: 8215372
    Abstract: A method of making a casting is disclosed. At least one support member has at least one first portion and a plurality of second portions connected to a mold core. The mold core is positioned at least in part in a sealed interior volume of a negative mold. The first portion is positioned outside the interior volume. The second portions are positioned at least in part inside the interior volume. A consumable pattern material is introduced into the negative mold to create a consumable pattern. The support member is disposed at least in part outside the consumable pattern. The consumable pattern is removed from the negative mold. A shell is formed around the consumable pattern. A casting material is introduced into an interior of the shell to create a final casting. The support member is disposed at least in part outside the final casting. A mold core is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: BRP US Inc.
    Inventor: Willie R. Anglin
  • Patent number: 8201610
    Abstract: Methods, systems and compositions for manufacturing downhole tools and downhole tool parts for drilling subterranean material are disclosed. A model having an external peripheral shape of a downhole tool or tool part is fabricated. Mold material is applied to an external periphery of the model. The mold material is permitted to harden to form a mold about the model. The model is eliminated and a composite matrix material is cast within the mold to form a finished downhole tool or tool part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: John H. Stevens, Jimmy W. Eason
  • Patent number: 8196640
    Abstract: A core-in-a-core casting method and hybrid core (40) for use in the method. An inner core (42) formed of process-inert particles disposed in a binder material is used as a mold for casting an outer core ((44) formed of particles that will sinter during a subsequent firing step. The inner core provides mechanical support for the outer core during the firing step, and during which the inner core devolves into compacted but unbonded particles that can be removed conveniently from the outer core following the firing step to reveal the fired hollow outer core (44).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Mikro Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: John R. Paulus, Michael P. Appleby
  • Patent number: 8136571
    Abstract: A process is used for applying carbiding agents to the surface of ferrous metal castings, using the “lost foam” method. Carbiding agents are applied to the foam form at selected places so that the final product has the desired amount of carbidic content at the right locations to endure high stress applications on the casting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Inventor: Mark DeBruin
  • Patent number: 8079131
    Abstract: The present invention includes a step of cooling a molten metal within a fine space present in the inside of an object and hardening it while applying a forced external force exceeding atmospheric pressure to the molten metal. The fine space is opened on the outer surface of the object in terms of one end thereof. The forced external force is given by at least one member selected among a pressing pressure, an injection pressure and a rolling compaction and applied to the molten metal from the opening surface side on which the fine space is opened, in a state that the other end side of the fine space is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: Napra Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shigenobu Sekine, Yurina Sekine, Ryuji Kimura
  • Patent number: 8056606
    Abstract: A composite element is provided. The composite element includes a ceramic component defining a cavity having a first end and a second end, and a metallic component that includes a head and a body. At least a portion of the body of the metallic component is disposed in the cavity, and the head of the component is disposed on the first end of the cavity. A cross-sectional area of a portion of the body is greater than an area of the first end. In addition, the ceramic and metallic components are interlocked. Methods of making a composite element and of making a clearance sensor part are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Wayne Charles Hasz
  • Patent number: 8056603
    Abstract: A method for producing a casting die by simple work without requiring any high work skill in which the working days required for producing the casting die can be shortened greatly. A die model suitably employed in this production method, an NC processing system and a processing robot are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignees: Kamiita Seiki Seisakusho Co., Ltd., Mold Technical Office Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Seiji Omata, Toshio Iwasawa
  • Patent number: 8042599
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and to a device for sing out this method, during which the shell molds (3) are filled with a melt (11) in a clocked manner, the respectively required amount of melt being currently provided at the same time. The casting process ensues by marrying the crucible (6), which is filled with a melt (11), with a shell mold (3) so that the crucible (6) and shell mold (3) form a common cavity (10), and this arrangement is subsequently tilted 180°, so that the melt (11) falls into the shell mold (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: ALD Vacuum Technologies GmbH
    Inventor: Pavel Seserko
  • Patent number: 7958932
    Abstract: A foam material comprises a liquid polymer and a liquid isocyanate which is mixed to make a solution that is poured, injected or otherwise deposited into a corresponding mold. A reaction from the mixture of the liquid polymer and liquid isocyanate inside the mold forms a thermally collapsible foam structure having a shape that corresponds to the inside surface configuration of the mold and a skin that is continuous and unbroken. Once the reaction is complete, the foam pattern is removed from the mold and may be used as a pattern in any number of conventional casting processes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: Fopat LLC
    Inventors: Anil R. Chaudhry, Robert Dzugan, Richard M. Harrington, Faurice D. Neece, Nipendra P. Singh
  • Patent number: 7833467
    Abstract: A polyester container obtained by stretch-forming a preform of a thermoplastic polyester resin formed by injection forming wherein the central portion of the bottom wall is the remaining part of the gate at the time of injection forming, and is formed relatively thicker than the bottom wall surrounding the central portion, and the central portion of the bottom wall is substantially amorphous, and the bottom wall surrounding the central portion is oriented and crystallized. The container exhibits excellent heat resistance and shock resistance despite a thick portion that is the remaining portion of the injection gate is formed at the center of the bottom portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Toyo Seikan Kaisha, Ltd.
    Inventors: Ryo Suenaga, Tsutomu Iwasaki, Taku Hosokai, Toshiki Sakaguchi, Hisao Iwamoto
  • Publication number: 20100116452
    Abstract: A method involves forming a core assembly. The forming includes molding a first ceramic core over a first refractory metal core to form a core subassembly. The subassembly is assembled to a second ceramic core.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2006
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Inventors: Blake J. Luczak, Eric A. Hudson, James T. Beals, Eric L. Couch
  • Patent number: 7618823
    Abstract: Disclosed are a method, system and apparatus for analyzing foam decomposition in contact mode during mold filling in lost foam casting, the foam decomposition having a foam material vapor fraction and the mold filling having a mold filling speed. The method includes providing a plurality of parameter values for casting process parameters as variables of a plurality of predetermined equations, simultaneously solving the plurality of predetermined equations including the parameter values, calculating a vapor value for the fraction of the foam material that decomposes to vapor, an undercut length value designating the amount of coating exposed to gas diffusion, and a speed value for the mold filling speed, and determining whether to adjust at least one of the parameter values based on the results for the vapor value, the undercut length value, or the speed value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Martin R. Barone, David A. Caulk
  • Publication number: 20090250185
    Abstract: A process for casting stainless steel including forming an erodable casting mold, delivering molten stainless steel into the erodable mold, contacting the erodable mold with a solvent, cooling the molten stainless steel to at least partially solidify the stainless steel and form a casting. Stainless steel castings are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2008
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Inventor: Deepak Saha
  • Patent number: 7563397
    Abstract: Solid free form fabrication techniques such as fused deposition modeling and three-dimensional printing are used to create a shell or die used in the manufacture of a dental restoration. Three-dimensional printing includes ink-jet printing a binder into selected areas of sequentially deposited layers of powder. Each layer is created by spreading a thin layer of powder over the surface of a powder bed. Instructions for each layer may be derived directly from a CAD representation of the restoration. The area to be printed is obtained by computing the area of intersection between the desired plane and the CAD representation of the object. All the layers required for an aesthetically sound shell can be deposited concurrently slice after slice and sintered/cured simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: Pentron Laboratory Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Martin L. Schulman, Carlino Panzera
  • Patent number: 7494554
    Abstract: A method for the continuous manufacturing of complex cast articles utilizing one or more fluidized beds for heat treatment and aging purposes is herein disclosed. The inventive method contemplates in-line casting, heat treating, quenching, aging and machining of a complex cast aluminum alloy article, such as an engine block or engine block head. Specific advantages of the heat treatment and aging stops of the method of the present invention are herein disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Assignee: Brunswick Corporation
    Inventors: Raymond J. Donahue, Kevin R. Anderson
  • Publication number: 20080093043
    Abstract: A process and casting media composition for casting three-dimensional parts and sacrificial models from a class of foaming casting compounds, and creating the foaming casting compounds by combining a radiation activated catalyst that causes a phase change from liquid to solid in the material and a foaming agent. In an alternate embodiment the combination is of a cold foaming casting compound and a compound which contains a radiation activated catalyst that causes a phase change from liquid to solid in the material. A further embodiment combines a hot melt casting compound with a compound which contains a radiation activated catalyst that causes a phase change from liquid to solid in the material and a foaming or blowing agent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventor: Victor F. Joyner
  • Patent number: 7360577
    Abstract: Process for the Lost-foam casting of aluminum or magnesium including spacing the cooling face of a chill from a selected surface of a pyrolizable polymeric foam pattern so as to provide at least a 0.5 mm gap therebetween, and filling the gap with Al or Mg melt so as to displace any pyrolysis products therein away from the cooling face, and otherwise prevent such products from becoming trapped by the melt against the cooling face of the chill.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas C. Pederson, Andrew R. Moore
  • Patent number: 7325585
    Abstract: A system for forming a dental prosthetic using the lost wax method utilizes a unitary pattern assembly to create a unitary cavity in a mold incorporating a dental prosthetic pattern cavity portion, a reservoir cavity portion and at least one sprue. The volume of the reservoir cavity portion is greater than the volume of the dental prosthetic pattern cavity portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Inventor: Giulio Benetti
  • Patent number: 7318468
    Abstract: Lost foam pattern assemblies formed by gluing together a plurality of EPS foam pattern segments with a polystyrene-like glue comprising an aromatic resin that has a molecular weight less than 10,000 and thermally degrades at temperatures no greater than said EPS. The glue contains sufficient first plasticizer, miscible with the resin, to impart a viscosity of about 0.1 to 5 PaS @ about 100-135° C. to the glue. The glue may optionally include a second, limited-miscibility, plasticizer to accelerate the hardening rate and increase the ultimate rigidity of the glue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2008
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas C. Pederson
  • Publication number: 20070295469
    Abstract: Process for the Lost-foam casting of aluminum or magnesium including spacing the cooling face of a chill from a selected surface of a pyrolizable polymeric foam pattern so as to provide at least a 0.5 mm gap therebetween, and filling the gap with Al or Mg melt so as to displace any pyrolysis products therein away from the cooling face, and otherwise prevent such products from becoming trapped by the melt against the cooling face of the chill.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2006
    Publication date: December 27, 2007
    Inventors: Thomas C. Pederson, Andrew R. Moore
  • Publication number: 20070277952
    Abstract: An arrangement for forcing rapid localized directional solidification, or global homogenous accelerated solidification of a liquid or semi-solid parent material, which is contained by a media mold that possesses porous properties. The process produces solidified matrix structures and cast properties in the parent material otherwise not possible through conventional solidification methods under ambient conditions. The process is capable of enhancing ordinary production cycles by reducing the overall cycle time required to produce a normally solidified material in a porous media mold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2006
    Publication date: December 6, 2007
    Inventors: Edward J. Le Vert, Bruce A. McMellon, Donald Young
  • Patent number: 7302993
    Abstract: Techniques for forming cast parts for medical devices suitable for contact with internal regions of patients are described herein. Such parts can be small in scale (e.g., having a major axis less than 0.3 inches, and/or a minor axis less than about 0.08 inches), and can be formed from metals that have a high melting point and high reactivity with environmental components or mold surfaces, such as stainless steel and titanium alloys. Such techniques can include injecting molten metal into the sprue of a mold tree such that the side runners are backfilled after the molten metal impacts a closed end of the sprue. Side runners can be oriented in particular directions and positions to promote backfilling. As well, flask temperatures and the use of surfactants can also promote cast part formation, hindering the formation of surface defects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: William A. Crawford, Tracy J. Potter, Donald F. Heaney, Brain S. DeForce, Samardh Onukuri
  • Patent number: 7293597
    Abstract: A substrate is coated by applying an essentially pure aluminum first layer to a surface of the substrate. At least a first portion of the first layer is oxidized so as to provide a protective coating of desired properties. The substrate may be a refractory metal-based investment casting core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph J. Parkos, Jr., Gary M. Lomasney, Joshua E. Persky
  • Patent number: 7287571
    Abstract: Pattern for the lost foam casting process including a pouring-basin-forming portion, a sprue-forming portion, a runner-forming portion, a gate-forming portion, and an inline-riser-forming portion. The runners formed by the pattern each have an inline riser through which melt flows between an inlet to and outlet from the riser during pouring, and in which melt is stored to feed the casting with melt during cooling/shrinkage of the casting. A sand dam surrounds the mouth of each gate and traps particulates from a liquid styrene layer that precedes the melt front in the riser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Neil R. Cossey
  • Patent number: 7246653
    Abstract: A process for manufacturing a blade of a turbomachine using the lost-wax moulding technique, where the blade includes a first central longitudinal cavity and at least one second longitudinal cavity together forming a cooling circuit and communicating with each other at one longitudinal end via a transverse channel. The process includes manufacturing first and second cores corresponding to the cavities, where the two cores each have an end portion, by which they are connected together by an assembly of the mortise and tenon type. The assembly of the two cores is then positioned in a shell mould and the metal poured into the mould.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: SNECMA
    Inventor: Maurice Guy Judet
  • Patent number: 7237375
    Abstract: An investment cast, stainless steel chain link is provided for chains used in water and wastewater treatment. The chain link comprises a pair of spaced apart, elongated sidebars having forward ends and rearward ends. The forward ends are spread apart and are provided with outwardly and laterally extending bosses having transverse boss pin bores coaxially aligned with each other. The rearward ends are interconnected by a cylindrical barrel having a barrel pin bore extending through each of the sidebars. The sidebars are formed with outwardly and laterally projecting reinforcing ribs extending between the bosses and the barrel pin bore along a substantial length of the sidebars. A freely rotatable chain pin is inserted through aligned boss and barrel pin bores from either end thereof for interconnecting first and second pairs of sidebars. An arrangement is provided for preventing the lateral dislodgement of the chain pin from the sidebars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Inventors: Michael W. Humcke, Anthony D. Krallman
  • Patent number: 7225049
    Abstract: Parameters specifying properties of the materials used in the lost foam casting process are input at an input step. Numerical methods may be used to simultaneously solve a set of coupled equations relating thermal properties, flow properties, and other physical properties of the metal and foam. A profile number ? and an engulf number E may be evaluated using the values of physical quantities determined during the numerical solution step. Once values for the profile number ? and engulf number E have been determined, these values may be checked to see if they lie within appropriate ranges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventor: David A. Caulk
  • Patent number: 7172011
    Abstract: A light metal cylinder liner with a surface which facilitates the connection with the surrounding cast material may be produced. The cylinder liner is produced by a lost-foam method with a form for production of the cast foam model having a structured surface with height variations of 0.8 to 5 mm. The structured surface is, for example, grooves or longitudinal elevations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Assignee: Mahle GmbH
    Inventors: Karlheinz Bing, Frank Winger
  • Patent number: 7164963
    Abstract: Disclosed are a method, system and apparatus for analyzing foam decomposition in gap mode during mold filling in lost foam casting, the casting process in gap mode characterized by a bubble flux and the mold filling having a mold filling speed. The method includes providing a plurality of values for casting process parameters as variables in a plurality of predetermined equations, simultaneously solving the plurality of predetermined equations including the parameter values, calculating a flux value for the bubble flux, a gap value for the gap width, and a speed value for the mold filling speed, and determining whether to adjust at least one of the parameter values based on at least one result for the bubble flux, mold filling speed, or gap width.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventor: David A. Caulk
  • Patent number: 7150307
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed for forming a metal casting sprue for a lost foam casting process, the sprue formed in sand for receiving molten metal and directing the molten metal to a foam pattern in a mold cavity, wherein the sprue formation is facilitated by an insert having a plurality of apertures formed therein, the apertures facilitating an application of a coating to sand surrounding the insert prior to removal of the insert from the sand, and wherein the sprue facilitates a minimization of production costs and an optimization of material properties of the resultant casting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2006
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventor: David D. Goettsch
  • Patent number: 7147031
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for the lost pattern casting of metals employs an erodable mold including a particulate material and a binder. An erodable backing or coating may be used to support the erodable mold. After a molten metal casting is poured in the mold, the erodable backing and the mold are contacted with a solvent. This cools the molten metal so that it at least partially solidifies to form a casting. At least a part of the mold is removed. Also, the coating or backing may be removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: Alotech Ltd. LLC
    Inventors: John R. Grassi, John Campbell, George W. Kuhlman
  • Patent number: 7147032
    Abstract: In a process for the assembly of wax trees, a wax runner is placed in a flat position, and a wax pattern is located adjacent to the wax runner. Both the wax pattern and the wax runner are heated and then placed in contact with one another where heated. Then the wax pattern and the wax runner are separated slightly to form a fillet weld between the wax pattern and the wax runner. An apparatus is also provided which, by robotics, brings a multiplicity of wax patterns to a wax runner and which automatically heats both the wax patterns and the wax runner before simultaneously pressing both the wax patterns and the wax runner together. Once a wax tree assembly is completed, a new wax runner replaces the wax runner that has been formed into a wax tree, and additional wax patterns are affixed in the same manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: MPI Incorporated
    Inventors: Richard Ludwig, Stephen Derby, Raymond H. Puffer, Jr., Bruce S. Phipps
  • Patent number: 7121318
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for the lost pattern casting of metals is disclosed. In the method, a pattern is formed from a material and a mold is formed around at least a portion of the pattern. The mold includes a particulate material and a binder. The pattern is removed from the mold and molten metal is delivered into the mold. The mold is contacted with the solvent and the molten metal is cooled such that it at least partially solidifies to form a casting. The step of cooling includes contacting a shell of solidifying metal around the molten metal with the solvent. An apparatus is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Assignee: Alotech Ltd. LLC
    Inventors: John R. Grassi, John Campbell, George W. Kuhlman
  • Patent number: 7100669
    Abstract: Provided herein is a method for refining primary silicon present in a hypereutectic aluminum silicon alloy. The method contemplates the controlled application of pressure to refine the primary silicon during the casting of articles. The application of pressure decreases the primary silicon particle size to improve the machinability and wear resistance of the final cast articles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: Brunswick Corporation
    Inventors: Raymond J. Donahue, Terrance M. Cleary
  • Patent number: 7096919
    Abstract: An evaporative pattern casting process in which a casting process plan capable of attaining the optimal discharge of generated gas can easily be decided. The evaporative pattern casting process can cast a product, and includes pouring a molten metal in a mold in which a pattern made of an expanded synthetic resin is embedded in molding sand, and evaporating the pattern with the molten metal, while gas generated by evaporation of the pattern is discharged outside the mold through a discharging passage including discharged gas suppressing device. The ventilation of the discharging passage is controlled on the basis of the material, the shape of the pattern, the kind of the molten metal, and the temperature of the molten metal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: Kao Corporation
    Inventors: Takeshi Narushima, Yoshio Tomida, Masayuki Kato, Masahiko Kagitani
  • Patent number: 7059382
    Abstract: A process including topically applying a finely divided powder onto a plurality of polystyrene beads. The finely divided powder includes brominated compounds including a brominated alkane having at least one substituent aromatic group. The polystyrene beads are pre-expanded with the topically applied brominated compounds and a molded pattern is formed from the pre-expanded polystyrene beads. A lost foam casting mold is formed with the molded pattern. Molten metal is poured into the lost foam casting mold and onto the molded pattern to depolymerize the polystyrene beads with the topically applied brominated compounds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas C. Pederson
  • Patent number: 7048030
    Abstract: A method of making an investment or lost foam casting assembly of a first part movable with respect to a second part includes making first and second separate wax or foam patterns of portions of the first part. Then, a third wax or foam pattern of the second part is made. Next, ceramic core pieces are made. At least one of the core pieces is mounted on the first pattern to form a subassembly. The subassembly is combined with the third pattern so that the core pieces maintain a separation between the third pattern and the first pattern. The first and second patterns are bonded together to trap the subassembly and to form a complete casting assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Casee Michele Eisele, Michael Dean Kollath, Robert Lee Wood, Jr., Edwin Roy Kreis, Michael Carl Harting
  • Patent number: 7044190
    Abstract: Provided is an evaporative pattern casting process which ensures that smooth casting can be carried out without blow-back of a molten metal and a molding product having an excellent casting quality is obtained. The invention relates to an evaporative pattern casting process for casting a product, which comprises pouring a molten metal into a mold provided with a pattern with a through-hole, embedded in molding sand, and evaporating the pattern with the poured molten metal, gradually exhausting the gas generated by the evaporation of the pattern to the outside of the mold through an exhausting path provided with an exhaust gas-controlling means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Assignee: Kao Corporation
    Inventors: Shigeo Nakai, Masahiko Kagitani, Yoshimasa Takagi, Takeshi Narushima, Hitoshi Funada
  • Patent number: 7025109
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling the dispersion of molten metal in a mold cavity is disclosed, the control facilitated by a localized densification of foam in a lost foam casting operation for producing metal castings, wherein the filling of regions of the mold cavity which do not lend themselves to castability is maximized, an amount of backfill and casting defects are minimized, and a flow pattern of molten metal and material properties of the resulting casting are optimized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary C. Ward, Barry L. Priem
  • Patent number: 6971437
    Abstract: Pattern for the lost foam casting process including a pouring-basin-foming portion, a sprue-forming portion, a runner-forming portion, a gate-forming portion, and a riser-forming portion. The sprue-forming portion forms an inverted conical sprue having a blade-lightener therein for quickly filling, and substantially simultaneously firing, the gates. A glue joint may be used between the pouring- basin-forming portion and the sprue-forming portion to increase the residence time of the melt in the pouring basin. The runners formed by the pattern each have an inline riser through which melt flows during pouring and in which melt is stored to feed the casting with melt during shrinkage of the casting A sand dam surrounds the mouth of each gate and traps particulates from a liquid styrene layer that precedes the melt front in the riser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Neil R. Cossey
  • Patent number: 6957685
    Abstract: A method of cleaning and of heat treating lost foam castings utilizing a heated, fluidized sand bed is disclosed. The fluidized action of the sand, the movement of the casting through the sand and the heat of the bed, combine to remove residue coating resulting from the lost foam casting process from the casting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Assignee: Brunswick Corporation
    Inventors: Raymond J. Donahue, Kevin R. Anderson, Daniel D. Schingen, Christopher J. Misorski