Removing Surface Portion Of Composite Workpiece To Expose Substrate Patents (Class 264/139)
  • Patent number: 7225536
    Abstract: A pre-casting multi-layer PCB process has steel plate mold engraved with circuitry and the epoxy coated on the mold for the epoxy to cover up a fiber glass substrate; conductive material coated on the epoxy to insert molding the former into the latter to form recessed circuitry; then baked and solidified, sandblasted to remove film for the conductive material to become conducted circuitry; the lamination made by layer for achieving even thinner PBC circuitry while maintaining sufficient structural strength.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Inventor: Ho-Ching Yang
  • Patent number: 7208111
    Abstract: A surface treatment or a two-step injection molding is used to make an inlaid polishing pad. A surface of the inlaid polishing pad has areas of different rigidity to control the rigidity and compressibility of the inlaid polishing pad. Furthermore, methods of making such an inlaid polishing pads are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: IV Technologies Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Wen-Chang Shih
  • Patent number: 7208110
    Abstract: A tread of thickness E, intended to be used in a tire having a carcass reinforcement surmounted by a crown reinforcement and including on its outer surface a plurality of grooves of depth h, including at least circumferential grooves separated axially by ribs, is provided with at least one internal, circumferential anti-rubber-on-rubber connection element, the outer wall of which, viewed in meridian section, has in part a contour identical to the contour of the wall of the regrooving groove to be created, the point(s) of said wall which are farthest from the axis of rotation being radially distant from the tread surface by a quantity h1 less than the depth h of the grooves, and the point(s) of said wall closest to the axis of rotation being radially distant from the tread surface by the maximum regrooving height H.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Michelin Recherche Et Technique S.A.
    Inventors: Jose Merino Lopez, Julien Metzger
  • Patent number: 7200916
    Abstract: An upholstery tack strip includes a metal ribbon and a thermoplastic sleeve covering at least a portion of the ribbon. The sleeve includes at least one, and possibly a pair of, lengthwise removed strip section(s) so as to expose a corresponding lengthwise surface of the metal ribbon. The metal ribbon integrally includes nail sections which protrude outwardly from said tack strip. At least one, and preferably both, lateral edges of the metal ribbon are knurled or serrated so as to assist in anchoring the ribbon to the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2007
    Inventors: David L. Haygood, Gary T. Schwertner
  • Patent number: 7195699
    Abstract: An electrophoresis member is produced by laying a plurality of capillaries on an adhesive layer born on a support layer to form a capillary layer, laminating thereon a second support layer, and partially removing the first support layer, the first adhesive layer and the second support layer to partially expose the capillaries to form a window portion for irradiation and detection and a sample injection portion for injecting a sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Assignees: Hitachi Chemical Co., Ltd., Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Kawazoe, Tomoyuki Kamata, Atsushi Takahashi, Tsuyoshi Sonehara, Tatemi Ido, Kunio Harada
  • Patent number: 7144612
    Abstract: Decorative system composites and methods for forming the same are described. The composites employ new and improved support film systems that have enhanced tensile strength under typical thermoforming conditions, including elevated temperatures. An optional release film can be used in conjunction with the support film. The support film is particularly suitable for use with decorative films used to impart a surface effect, such as paint or color-containing film systems, to a thermoformed plastic component. The support film systems also possess enhanced bag/sag/drape control characteristics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: Laminate Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert LaFave, Robert Bowling
  • Patent number: 7141191
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for use in manufacturing a composite part includes molding a composite part on a lay-up tool, machining a sacrificial portion of a first surface for securing a first hardware device with the composite part while the part is on the lay-up tool and cutting the part forming a peripheral edge while the part is on the lay-up tool. The method can further include positioning the first hardware device in contact with a machined interface of the composite part and machining the part including drilling a plurality of positioning holes through the hardware device and the part while the part is on the lay-up tool. The machining can include machining the sacrificial portion creating a machined interface and positioning the hardware device on the machined interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Dwight L. Engwall, John F. Costello
  • Patent number: 7108815
    Abstract: A molding process for manufacturing a tubular molded article includes the steps of (a) preparing a mold that defines a mold cavity and that is formed with at least a protrusion protruding into the mold cavity, (b) placing a supporting member in the mold cavity, (c) introducing a first molding material into the mold cavity around the supporting member so as to form a first molded part around the supporting member and a decorating indentation in the first molded part, and (d) filling the decorating indentation in the first molded part with a second molding material so as to form a second molded part therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: Alvin Lee Jewelry, Inc.
    Inventor: Yeou-Ching Lee
  • Patent number: 7101501
    Abstract: A foamed plastic is cut to form a single-layer polishing pad having a desired rigidity and compressibility. A polishing surface of the polishing pad has a higher density than a mounting surface of the polishing pad. The polishing surface and the mounting surface may have different areas having different densities for achieving desired rigidity and compressibility property. Furthermore, methods of making such single-layer polishing pads are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: IV Technologies Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Wen-Chang Shih, Yung-Chung Chang, Min-Kuei Chu
  • Patent number: 7097797
    Abstract: A method of making golf club grip includes the steps of overlapping a textile fabric on a first raw rubber layer and painting a rubber latex on the textile fabric to attach the textile fabric on the first raw rubber layer to form a thin reinforced rubber layer laminated with the textile fabric; preparing a second raw rubber layer which is shaped and sized to form two control members; shaping the first raw rubber layer to form two anti-slip members; aligning the anti-slip members with the control members in an end to end manner in two halves of heat mold respectively; and vulcanizing the anti-slip members and the control members in a heat mold to form the golf club grip including a tubular anti-slip arrangement and a tubular control arrangement coaxially extended from a lower end of the anti-slip arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Inventor: Yung-Hsiang Chen
  • Patent number: 7045089
    Abstract: The method includes the step of forming a solid epoxy member on a substrate, the epoxy member having an upper surface of desired configuration. A first metal layer is deposited on the epoxy member with the upper surface thereof conforming to the desired configuration. A layer of epoxy is deposited on the first metal layer and epoxy material from the epoxy layer is removed to create a well, exposing the metal layer on the epoxy member. A metal impression layer is then deposited in the well. The metal impression layer is then removed from the well and affixed to a mounting member as a mold component for injection molding of small structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Inventor: Martin A. Afromowitz
  • Patent number: 7008583
    Abstract: A process of inlaying a design in a fiberglass article to provide a decorative article of manufacture. The process comprises applying a first lamina of releasing agent into a mold. Then forming a second lamina of clear gel coat on the first lamina and allowing it to dry. Then forming a third lamina of transparent polyester resin on the second lamina and submerging the design into the third lamina before the third lamina is dry. Then removing air bubbles from the design and the third lamina and allowing the third lamina to dry. Then applying a fourth lamina of curable resin on the third lamina, whereby the fourth lamina is formed substantially from fiberglass of a white pigmentation, and allowing it to dry. Lastly, removing the mold from the first, second, third, and fourth laminas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Inventors: Moises Edery, Saul Ariel Raschkovan
  • Patent number: 7008582
    Abstract: A method of making golf club grip includes the steps of overlapping a textile fabric on a first raw rubber layer and painting a rubber latex on the textile fabric to attach the textile fabric on the first raw rubber layer to form a thin reinforced rubber layer laminated with the textile fabric; preparing a second raw rubber layer which is shaped and sized to form two control members; shaping the first raw rubber layer to form two anti-slip members; aligning the anti-slip members with the control members in an end to end manner in two halves of heat mold respectively; and vulcanizing the anti-slip members and the control members in a heat mold to form the golf club grip including a tubular anti-slip arrangement and a tubular control arrangement coaxially extended from a lower end of the anti-slip arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Inventor: Yung-Hsiang Chen
  • Patent number: 6989117
    Abstract: A method of making a polishing pad having a body comprising fibers embedded in a matrix polymer formed by a reaction of polymer precursors. The fibers define interstices, and the precursors fill these interstices substantially completely before completion of the reaction. The method comprising placing the fibers and the precursors in a cavity of a mold for shaping the polishing pad; applying a differential pressure across a mold cavity, where the differential pressure and the amount of precursors are sufficient to cause the precursors to fill the interstices substantially completely before completion of the reaction; and applying sufficient heat to the mold to at least partially cure the polishing pad by causing the precursors to react.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Shyng-Tsong Chen, Kenneth P. Rodbell, Oscar Kai Chi Hsu, Jean Vangsness, David S. Gilbride, Scott Clayton Billings, Kenneth Davis
  • Patent number: 6949215
    Abstract: A laser processing method capable of performing fine and highly accurate processing by low energy is obtained. The invention relates to the laser processing method where laser beam for processing (4) is irradiated on a processing object (2) and the laser beam for processing (4) directly removes a part of the processing object (2). The processing object (2) is made of a glass substrate, metal thin film (3) having high absorption to laser beam for processing (4) is formed on a surface of glass substrate, into which laser beam for processing (4) is made incident, the laser beam for processing (4) is irradiated from a surface of metal thin film (3), and matter is directly removed by irradiation of laser beam onto the processing object (2) in order to form a region finer than an irradiation region of laser beam for processing (4) on the processing object (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Assignees: Ricoh Company, Ltd., Riken
    Inventors: Yasufumi Yamada, Katsumi Midorikawa, Hiroshi Kumagai
  • Patent number: 6921505
    Abstract: An assembly is disclosed that includes an etched hole-fill standoff; a tooling plate contacting the etched hole-fill stand-off, the stand-off and tooling plate being aligned to each other; a device having holes to be filled removably contacting the stand-off, the stand-off and device being aligned to each other; the device and the stand-off each having at least one hole, the hole of the device being aligned with the hole of the stand-off. An assembly is also disclosed comprising an etched hole-fill standoff, the stand-off comprising an etched layer bonded to a non-etched layer. A method of filling holes in a substrate having a plurality of holes to be filled includes the steps of providing an etched hole-fill stand-off, aligning the stand-off to a tooling plate, aligning the substrate to the stand off and placing the substrate in contact with the stand-off, and filling the plurality of holes of the substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignee: TTM Advanced Circuits, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce W. Lee, Jesse L. Pedigo
  • Patent number: 6887550
    Abstract: Molded articles or substrates having an in-mold coating thereon are disclosed. The in-mold coated substrates are produced by a method wherein the flow of the in-mold composition onto the substrate can be selectively controlled. The molded articles can be preferentially coated in desired or predetermined areas with in-mold coating compositions by controlling the thickness or depth of various sections of the substrate. A molded article or substrate is provided with a removable in-mold coating containment flange which extends completely around the perimeter of a surface to be coated in order to substantially contain the in-mold coating within the mold cavity and on the desired area of a part before the coating has been cured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: OMNOVA Solutions Inc.
    Inventors: Elliott J. Straus, John A. Thompson
  • Patent number: 6857178
    Abstract: An upholstery tack strip includes a thermoplastic sleeve and a metal ribbon embedded within the sleeve. The sleeve itself includes a plurality of removed material sections forming opposed pairs of sleeve windows, while the metal ribbon integrally includes nail sections which protrude outwardly from the tack strip through respective ones of the sleeve windows. Most preferably, the sleeve is extrusion-coated onto the metal ribbon stock using a cross-head die. The thus-coated metal strip preform may then be transferred to downstream fabrication operations whereby the sleeve windows and nail portions are formed. Since the nail portions protrude outwardly from the tack strip through the sleeve windows, relative lengthwise slippage between the metal ribbon stock and the sleeve is prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Inventors: David L. Haygood, Gary T. Schwertner
  • Patent number: 6849226
    Abstract: A control panel assembly having a plurality of buttons located in a bezel and supported by a switch mat. A bezel and/or button is formed using a vacuum forming technique and has a transparent inner surface layer and a middle translucent color layer and an opaque outer surface layer. A portion of the opaque outer surface layer is removed to define a desired indicia on an outer surface of the bezel or button. In addition, the bezel or button can be backlit to allow visibility in low light conditions. A method of making a control panel component, such as a bezel or button, is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2005
    Assignee: Key Plastics, LLC
    Inventors: Kenneth J. Ardrey, Mark R. Weston
  • Patent number: 6847041
    Abstract: A scintillator panel having a wavelength conversion member has some problems: lowered durability to be caused by an area not covered with a protective layer around a projection formed on the wavelength conversion member surface; lowered resolution response and CTF caused by an irregularity of the film thicknesses of wavelength conversion members and a variation in gaps between wavelength conversion members and sensor panels; and breakage of the sensor panel by projections when a radiation detector is formed by bonding the scintillator panel and sensor panel. At least one of these problems can be solved by a scintillator panel having projections on the wavelength conversion member surface whose sizes are reduced, and by a radiation detector having such a scintillator panel and a sensor panel bonded together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Satoshi Okada, Yoshihiro Ogawa, Katsuro Takenaka
  • Patent number: 6833098
    Abstract: A cover peeling machine includes a pair of rolls. The roll has an almost conical shape. Both of the rolls are rotated in a reverse direction. The direction of the rotation is an inward direction as seen from above. A golf ball is put close to a tip of the roll. In the vicinity of the tip, a distance between a nip of the roll and the golf ball is short. Therefore, a clip portion formed on the golf ball can be easily bitten between the rolls. With the rotation of the roll, a cover is peeled from a core. A groove formed on a surface of the roll can prevent the roll and the cover from slipping. After the removal, the cover and the core are recycled respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Assignee: Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Watabe, Jun Yamakawa, Osamu Nishikawa, Masao Takami
  • Publication number: 20040245673
    Abstract: Wear components of a powder coating system are provided with a coded visual element in one aspect of the invention. The coded visual element can provide an indication of the manufacturer or a characteristic of the part. In molded parts, the coded visual element can be implemented as a different color overmolded part wherein a material of one color is overmolded on a base material of another color. The overmolded material can be elastomeric and formed with integral exterior rings to provide a friction fit for the wear component in, for example, a venturi pump or a spray gun while eliminating the need for separate O-rings and the need to machine or form grooves in the exterior of the parts to receive the O-rings. Similarly, integral flanges can be formed to eliminate the need for separate snap rings and grooves to accept the snap rings. Color coding of the overmolded material can also be implemented in a way to provide an indication of wear.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2004
    Publication date: December 9, 2004
    Inventor: Robert J. Allsop
  • Patent number: 6797212
    Abstract: A thin walled microtube is formed by providing a continuous elongated member having an outer surface. The member is at least partially formed of a water soluble material. A coating material is provided. The coating material may be a silicone compound that is curable such that the coating material cures into a substantial non-porous silicone. The outer surface of the elongated member is coated with a coating material so as to form a substantially uniform and continuous layer of coating material on the outer surface. The layer of coating material is cured so as to form a substantial uniform and continuous layer of substantially non-porous silicone on the outer surface. The elongated member is at least partially dissolved using water and purged from the silicone layer, such that an elongated tube of substantially non-porous silicone is formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: MedArray, Inc.
    Inventor: Jean Patrick Montoya
  • Patent number: 6797211
    Abstract: A method of fabricating a device, including mechanically patterning a device layer using a stamp containing a desired pattern. The device layer is formed on a plastic or polymeric substrate. The stamp is pressed against the substrate under a load which patterns the device layer without cracking the device layer in the non-patterned areas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: Osram Opto Semiconductors GmbH & Co. oHG
    Inventors: Ewald Karl Michael Guenther, Zhong Chen, Brian Cotterell
  • Publication number: 20040085266
    Abstract: A paste film is formed by coating a paste onto the surface of a substrate. In a state in which comb-teeth formed on at least a portion of the periphery of a blade is thrust into the paste film, the blade or the substrate is moved in a certain direction, thus forming ceramic capillary ribs on the substrate surface. The paste should preferably contain from 30 to 95 wt. % glass powder or mixed glass/ceramics powder, from 0.3 to 15 wt. % resin, and from 3 to 70 wt. % solvent mixture (a solvent. a plasticizer and a dispersant), and the ceramic ribs on the substrate should preferably have an aspect ratio of from 1.5 to 10. The blade should preferably have a pitch P, a gap w and a depth h as expressed by 0.03 mm≦h≦1.0 mm and w/P≦0.9, and ribs are foamable on an insulating layer by keeping the blade spaced apart from the substrate surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Applicant: MITSUBISHI MATERIALS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yoshirou Kuromitsu, Makoto Toriumi, Yoshio Kanda, Seiji Toyoda, Hiroki Hirata
  • Patent number: 6699415
    Abstract: A process for the production of a manufactured article for coatings, for components of sanitary ware, kitchen fittings, etc., in polymerized transparent resin in which marble and other stones are embedded. The surface of the product is worked by brushing with abrasives, so as to obtain depressions corresponding to the resin, and slight projections with substantially uniform distribution corresponding to the inserts; advantageously, the inserts are “decapitated” to give smoothed surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Inventor: Silena Gaggini
  • Patent number: 6689306
    Abstract: A skin layer for covering a dash panel structure in overlying relation to an air bag cushion assembly. The skin layer is of a multi-layered construction including a top layer of virgin polymeric material forming a show surface of controlled predefined color across the vehicle dash panel and an underlying layer of regrind material formed from the scraps of material generated during molding and trimming of the dash panel covers. A tear seam may be scored across the underside of the skin extending into the underlying layer of recycled material in a desired break-out pattern for the air bag cushion. The skin layer may be disposed across an underlying layer of foam which in turn is disposed across a supporting panel structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Allen Merrifield, James John Sommer
  • Patent number: 6673291
    Abstract: An epidural catheter with a soft tip is formed by extruding a two-layer tube where the inner layer is stiffer than the outer layer. The inner layer is then removed, such as by machining, from a short length at the tip, which is subsequently end-formed closed and a side opening cut into it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Smiths Group PLC
    Inventors: Stephen James Field, Kester Julian Batchelor
  • Patent number: 6669876
    Abstract: A method of preparing a smooth watertight concrete in-ground pool surface that eliminates the use of a plaster outer surface layer that includes allowing the concrete pool body to cure for at least thirty days at which time a grinder is used to grind the surface to a smoothness and depth that is watertight and that exposes aggregates within the pool surface resulting in an aesthetically desirable permanently finished pool surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Inventor: Bruce Torrance
  • Patent number: 6663817
    Abstract: A method for producing sliders having positive camber on the air bearing surface. The method comprises (i) scribing the air bearing surface of a slider row along a line between individual sliders, (ii) flat plate lapping the air bearing surface of the slider row, and (iii) producing a pattern of stress on the back side of the slider row to create positive camber in each individual slider in the slider row.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: Hitachi Global Storage Technologies Netherlands, B.V.
    Inventors: Yu-En Percy Chang, Yuri Igor Markevitch, Scott Thomas
  • Patent number: 6647610
    Abstract: An upholstery tack strip includes a metal ribbon and a thermoplastic sleeve covering at least a portion of the ribbon. The sleeve includes at least one, and possibly a pair of, lengthwise removed strip section(s) so as to expose a corresponding lengthwise surface of the metal ribbon. The metal ribbon integrally includes nail sections which protrude outwardly from said tack strip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventors: David L. Haygood, Gary T. Schwertner
  • Patent number: 6630092
    Abstract: A process for the provision of variedly colored incisions on a cosmetic product is described, that comprises the steps of superimposing a colored thin surface layer (8) onto the cosmetic product (1) and utilising a laser beam (5) directed towards said surface layer (1) and said cosmetic products (1) as an incident tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2003
    Assignee: Intercos Italia S.p.A.
    Inventor: Nadia Avalle
  • Publication number: 20030173698
    Abstract: An elasticity-processing method for wet suit fabric pieces is disclosed, by which a wet suit fabric piece laminated with a knitted high-elastic cloth is pressed tightly with two sets of rubber squeeze rollers under different rotation speeds to cause an expansion effect on the fabric piece, separate and destroy the weave circle of the weave of the knitted cloth and produce an elasticity to the whole piece of the fabric. In comparison with the conventional low-elastic and high-modulus wet suit fabric pieces, the fabric pieces made with such a process has a high elasticity and low modulus, and is capable to improve the elasticity of wet suits in professional applications. The wet suits made of such fabric are more fitted, softer and more comfortable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2002
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventor: Chi-Chou Chuang
  • Patent number: 6610224
    Abstract: A decorative aggregate-containing cementitious slurry having decorative aggregate and cementitious matrix composition forms a monolithic structure when effectively applied to a freshly poured cementitious base and simultaneously cured therewith. The slurry and the base are cured for a time sufficient for producing the monolithic structure with a decorative aggregate-containing cementitious surface. The slurry produces a decorative aggregate-containing cementitious layer having a cured thickness effective for permanently securing the decorative aggregate therein with a portion of the decorative aggregate exposed. Various decorative surfaces are produced without requiring expensive hand broadcasting of the decorative aggregate, and without expensive surface grinding. Dry components of the slurry are decorative aggregate and decorative cementitious matrix blend.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Assignee: Sullivan Concrete Textures
    Inventor: Francis W. Sullivan
  • Publication number: 20030157751
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method to simplify the handling of micro-components (1, 18), wherein a micro-component (1, 18) is initially produced on a micro-component base plate (2). At least the open side surfaces of the micro-component (1, 18) are then cast using a hardening moulding material (4) whereupon the base plate (2) and/or the moulding material (4) covering the micro-component (1, 18) is removed. The magazine (5) for at least one micro-component (1, 18) comprises of a disk-shaped plate (5a) encompassing the micro-component (1,18) at least one its side surfaces (1c) is positive fit. The assembly method for micro-components (1, 18) includes a magazine (5) which is configured in the form of a disk-shaped plate containing at least one micro-component (1, 18) which encompasses at least on one of its sides in positive fit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2003
    Publication date: August 21, 2003
    Applicant: Institut fur Mikrotechnik Mainz GMBH
    Inventors: Wolfgang Ehrfeld, Heinz Lehr, Lutz Weber
  • Patent number: 6602452
    Abstract: A system and method for molding the shell of a medical device or other molded article is provided. The system includes a multi-axis rotational molding machine in which a mold is mounted. The mold has a cavity in the shape of the article to be molded. The mold seals to hold a vacuum. In operation, silicone or other molding material is inserted into the mold, vacuum is applied to the mold, the mold is rotated about at least two axes and a molding material coats the inside walls of the mold to form the shell or other desired article. A rotationally molded medical article is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Assignee: McGhan Medical Corporation
    Inventor: David J. Schuessler
  • Patent number: 6551407
    Abstract: A method using irradiation of surfaces 12A of substrates (12) with ultra violet light to remove a parting agent is described. The light can be pulsed or continuous. The treated surfaces are more paintable and bondable. The treated molds prevent the introduction of surface inhomogeneities caused by the parting agent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Assignee: Board of Trustees of Michigan State University
    Inventors: Lawrence T. Drzal, Michael J. Rich, Laura M. Fisher
  • Patent number: 6548010
    Abstract: A method of bonding tubular members comprising the steps of, providing a first generally tubular member having a bonding portion disposed proximate a bonding end thereof, an ancillary end, and a lumen extending therethrough, the first tubular member including a support member encased in a substrate material, the support member having a plurality of filaments providing a second generally tubular member having a bonding portion disposed proximate a bonding end thereof, an ancillary end, and a lumen extending therethrough, stripping a portion of the substrate material of the first tubular member from the filaments of the support member of the first tubular member proximate the bonding portion thereof to create a plurality of exposed filaments, inserting the exposed filaments into the lumen of the second tubular member, positioning the bonding portion of the first tubular member proximate the bonding portion of the second tubular member, and heating the bonding portion of the first tubular member and the bonding
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: SciMed Life Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy M. Stivland, Michael W. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6540952
    Abstract: A method of providing multiple arcuate ablations on a corner portion of a polymeric laminate. The laminate includes more than one layer, with each layer having a an exposed upper surface. The method comprises selectively ablating a first layer in a first arcuate path, and selectively ablating remaining layers, each remaining layer ablated in a separate arcuate path. The arcuate path of any layer neither overlays nor underlies the arcuate path of any other layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Assignee: Preco Laser Systems, LLC
    Inventors: James A. LaPoint, Elizabeth D. Frazee
  • Patent number: 6537480
    Abstract: A method of forming a catheter shaft having a flexible section by selective removal of catheter shaft material using laser radiation, and a catheter produced therefrom. The laser radiation is of an ultraviolet wavelength. The catheter shaft is made more flexible without a disadvantageous decrease in column strength by operating the laser in the UV, which allows for machining recess patterns with smooth and repeatable recess surfaces while producing little or no thermal or mechanical effects on the remaining adjacent polymeric material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Jon A. Becker, Richard J. Saunders
  • Patent number: 6533314
    Abstract: According to the present invention, an instrument panel having an instrument panel cover including a hidden deployment region integrally formed within an inner surface thereof by an ultrasonic embossing process is provided. More specifically, the deployment region comprises at least one and preferably a plurality of scores or cuts formed in the inner surface according to a predetermined pattern. The scores represent weakened portions of the instrument panel cover designed so that the force of an inflating air bag cushion causes the instrument panel cover to separate along the scores to thereby provide an opening for the inflating air bag cushion to deploy therethrough and be directed into the passenger compartment of a vehicle. The deployment region may be defined by any number of scores and therefore may have a variety of patterns, including but not limited to “H” pattern, “U” pattern, and “I” pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Allen Merrifield, James John Sommer
  • Patent number: 6531080
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method to simplify the handling of micro-components, wherein a micro-component is initially produced on a micro-component base plate. At least the open side surfaces of the micro-component are then cast using a hardening moulding material whereupon the base plate and/or the moulding material covering the micro-component is removed. The magazine for at least one micro-component comprises of a disk-shaped plate encompassing the micro-component at least one its lateral surfaces is positive joint. The assembly method for micro-components includes a magazine which is configured in the form of a disk-shaped plate containing at least one micro-component which encompasses at least on one of its sides in positive fit. Said magazine is held and maintained by a retaining device, whereupon the micro-component which is to be assembled is squeezed out of the magazine and simultaneously positioned in a specific location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2003
    Assignee: Institut fur Mikrotechnik Mainz GmbH
    Inventors: Wolfgang Ehrfeld, Heinz Lehr, Lutz Weber
  • Patent number: 6528006
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method of producing plastic film having a predefinable outline and/or even or uneven thickness, by machining preformed plastic film for separation and/or ablation. The method is used especially for producing flexible flaps for artificial heart valves. To produce a film having local variations in thickness and smooth edges where the piece of film has been cut, the invention provides for the plastic film to be separated and/or for specific areas to be ablated to the desired thickness by means of a laser beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Adiam Life Science AG
    Inventor: Josef Jansen
  • Publication number: 20030006525
    Abstract: Method for loading ceramic moulds presenting a die plate having at least one forming cavity in which a die is slidingly received, comprising the following operative steps for each complete loading cycle: preparing a powder layer at least the upper part of which has properties conforming to the required aesthetic characteristics of the exposed face of the tile; transferring said layer to above said at least one forming cavity; depositing into said at least one cavity a powder layer having a thickness greater than that necessary to obtain the desired tile thickness, and before pressing removing, by a mechanical cutting action with simultaneous removal of the thus separated material, the surface layer of the powder contained in the mould cavity, without appreciable mixing of the powder present at the interface between the surface layer and the underlying layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2002
    Publication date: January 9, 2003
    Applicant: SACMI - COOPERATIVA MECCANICI IMOLA SOC. COOP. A.R.I.
    Inventor: Pietro Rivola
  • Patent number: 6500511
    Abstract: An optical disc consisting of a substrate and at least a recording layer formed on the substrate is recycled by peeling off the recording layer from the substrate; and bonding another substrate having a recording layer formed thereon to the substrate from which the recording layer has been removed, whereby a renewed optical disc is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroshi Ooki, Toshiyuki Kashiwagi
  • Publication number: 20020185773
    Abstract: An upholstery tack strip includes a thermoplastic sleeve and a metal ribbon embedded within the sleeve. The sleeve itself includes a plurality of removed material sections forming opposed pairs of sleeve windows, while the metal ribbon integrally includes nail sections which protrude outwardly from the tack strip through respective ones of the sleeve windows. Most preferably, the sleeve is extrusion-coated onto the metal ribbon stock using a cross-head die. The thus-coated metal strip preform may then be transferred to downstream fabrication operations whereby the sleeve windows and nail portions are formed. Since the nail portions protrude outwardly from the tack strip through the sleeve windows, relative lengthwise slippage between the metal ribbon stock and the sleeve is prevented.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2002
    Publication date: December 12, 2002
    Inventors: David L. Haygood, Gary T. Schwertner
  • Patent number: 6491852
    Abstract: A method of making terrazzo floors with design inlays. The method utilizes pre-molded inserts as inlays in the finished floor, and generally includes four steps. First, inserts are pre-molded, which has design elements in terms of their color, nature of inclusions (chips, glass fragments, etc. and their colors), shape and/or a pattern of grooves in their upper surfaces. Second, the pre-molded inserts are placed on and affixed to the sub-flooring in a predetermined arrangement. Third, epoxy flooring mixture is poured to a height that fills the grooves in the inserts' upper surfaces and preferably cover the inserts. Fourth, the floor, after cured and hardened, is ground and polished to expose the upper surfaces of the inserts, which now become seamlessly integrated inlays within the overall finished floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: Durite Concepts Inc.
    Inventor: Allen Sedaka
  • Patent number: 6488872
    Abstract: Microfabricated devices and methods of manufacturing the devices are disclosed. The devices are manufactured from a substrate having microscale fluid channels, and polymerizing a polymerizable mixture in the channels to form stimuli-responsive operating components of the device. The operating components can be functional or structural components. The method of manufacture obviates the traditional assembly of microscale components to form a device because the microscale components are formed in situ on or within the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2002
    Assignee: The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois
    Inventors: David J. Beebe, Jeffrey S. Moore
  • Patent number: 6479000
    Abstract: An apparatus for sealing at least a portion of the urinary tract to prevent the unwanted discharge of urine includes a body member with a tubular member, encircled along its length by an overcoat layer, that encases a fluid, forming a cavity. The body member, with its tubular member and overcoat layer are elastically deformable from an initial “rest” or “relaxed” state, when outside of the body, where at least a portion of the overcoat layer is of a diameter equal to or greater than that of an undilated urethra. A stylet may be placed into the tubular member to serve as a guide, for elongation of the body member and to provide rigidly to the body member upon insertion into the urinary tract. There is also disclosed a method for making the apparatus of the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Assignee: Rochester Medical Corporation
    Inventors: Anthony J. Conway, Philip J. Conway, Richard D. Fryar, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6403004
    Abstract: A process for producing a decorative article having a face layer of multiple laminae is disclosed. A first curable resin is formed into a first lamina having a face layer with a relief and a substantially planar back layer. The first resin is cured and then a second curable resin is-applied to the face layer of the first lamina. The second resin is cured to produce a second lamina and the first and second laminae are then sanded to provide a decorative article of manufacture having a substantially planar face layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Assignee: Surface Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: William M. Stecker