To Unite Independent Contacting Preforms Patents (Class 264/263)
  • Patent number: 7094375
    Abstract: A method for producing a window glass for a vehicle provided with an ornamental braid comprises steps of setting an ornamental braid on a lower mold of an injection molding machine, fixing an ornamental braid connection member on the lower mold, setting a glass plate on the lower mold, closing an upper mold, thereby locking the molds, and injecting molten resin into a cavity formed between the lower mold and the upper mold, thereby integrally molding a resin frame, the ornamental braid and the ornamental braid connection member along a periphery of the glass plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Assignee: Central Glass Company, Limited
    Inventor: Osamu Nakata
  • Patent number: 7082728
    Abstract: An electrical box for use with insulated concrete form building systems includes a main body having an electrical box cavity for housing electrical outlets, switches, and electrical connections. The insulated concrete form building systems utilize insulated forms to form concrete and the insulated forms are left in place after the concrete has been poured thereby creating an overall insulated concrete element that includes the concrete and the insulated forms. In accordance with the method and the arrangement of the invention, the electrical box includes an arrangement for attaching the electrical box to the insulated form without requiring the use of any additional fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Assignee: Plantilock Corporation
    Inventors: Drew B. McConaughy, Brad J. Hebig
  • Patent number: 7081179
    Abstract: An in-machine assembly technique uses revolving mold sections that rotate perpendicularly to the clamping axis of the injection-molding machine to increase usable mold area and to provide improved access to molded parts before and after assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Assignee: MGS Mfg. Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian Hartlmeier, John J. Hahn, William Mentzer
  • Patent number: 7048880
    Abstract: A molding process for a composite article uses a textured film layer to shape the surface of the composite article. The film layer is placed in the mold with the textured film surface exposed and a composite material is placed over the textured film surface. Preferably, the film layer is vacuum-formed onto the mold to take the shape of the mold. As it cures, the composite article takes the shape of the textured film layer to form a textured article surface. After demolding, the film layer adheres to the article as a protective coating, but can be readily removed from the article to expose an underlying textured surface of the article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Hamid Ghavami Kia, Peter Herbert Foss, John Neal Owens, Terrence James Wathen
  • Patent number: 7022275
    Abstract: Saddle made of composite material, in particular for a bicycle, comprising a support structure provided with a padding having a seating surface. The support structure comprises a plurality of first layers of high-rigidity composite material having an opening formed centrally therein and a second layer of composite material with a rigidity less than that of the first layers, fixed to the latter along a superimposed surface covering the opening so as to form an elastically yielding zone which is preferably located in the prostatic and ischiatic zones of the seat of the saddle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Selle Royal S.P.A.
    Inventor: Riccardo Bigolin
  • Patent number: 7022277
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for producing objects and object parts formed by an assembly comprising at least two plastic parts (10 and 5; 10? and 5?), which can move in relation to one another with at least one degree of freedom and which are provided with surfaces having at least partially complementary shapes such that, in at least one geometric configuration, they are solidly interconnected on a common surface (11; 11?) in close, clearance-free contact The inventive method comprises the following steps: 1) molding of a first part (10, 10?) by compression or injection; 2) removal of the second tool, the first part (10, 10?) remaining solidly connected to the first tool which serves as a piece of support equipment or is installed on a piece of support equipment (60); 3) compression molding of the second part using the whole (110) of the first part which is integral to the support equipment and a third tool; 4) removal of the first support tool (60) and the third tool (55) and extraction of the assembly
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: CEBAL S.A.S
    Inventors: Michel Bosshardt, Bertrand Gruau
  • Patent number: 7005100
    Abstract: The present invention involves a process that includes injecting a potting compound such as an epoxy through a hollow portion (2B) of the central mandrel (2) and onto the inner layer(s) of a multi-layered fiber bundle (3) and through the outside of the bundle and onto the outer layer(s) of the bundle. By potting through the central mandrel (2), the potting compound distributes evenly throughout the inner fibers of the bundle (3). The steps may be sequentially or simultaneously. Preferably it is done as a two-step process, with the first step being to apply the potting compound through the central mandrel (2) and onto the inner fibers first. The second step is to pot around the outer layer of the fiber bundle (3) to finish the process. The resultant product is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: Millipore Corporation
    Inventor: Paul Lowell
  • Patent number: 6974555
    Abstract: A method of fabricating a damage tolerant shaft is provided in which a plurality of lobes are initially formed and are then positioned relative to one another to define an annular body and a plurality of ribs extending within the annular body. The plurality of lobes are formed of a plurality of reinforcing fibers extending at least partially about a respective lobe. Once the lobes have been positioned relative to one another, interstices between portions of adjacent lobes may be filled. Additionally, the plurality of lobes may be surrounded by an outer layer, also formed of reinforcing fibers extending at least partially about the plurality of lobes. The plurality of lobes may be impregnated with resin and cured, either prior to being positioned relative to one another or thereafter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Peter Holemans, Pierre Minguet
  • Patent number: 6974557
    Abstract: Optical windows for intracorporeal devices, intracorporeal devices comprising a window and a method for forming a window for an intracorporeal device are provided. The method comprises placing within a mold an assembly comprising a mandrel located within a pair of parts separated by a collar of window material, heating the window preform effective to cause the window material to soften, and applying force to urge together the pair of parts to deform the window material so as to form a window. The intracorporeal devices, such as imaging devices, include guidewires, catheters, endoscopes. In addition, the method is suitable for joining plastic parts to other parts, such as metal and ceramic parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignee: Advanced Cardiovasculer Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: William E. Webler, Michael D. Whitt, Marc M. Jalisi, Andrej M. Chudy, Kevin M. Phillips, Marc L. Speck
  • Patent number: 6974554
    Abstract: A method of forming a pot for an array of hollow fiber membranes (7) is provided, including the steps of placing the ends (6) of the fiber membranes (7) in a mould (5); forming a first layer (20) of curable resin material in a non-cured state around the fiber membrane ends (6), applying a second layer (21) of a polyurethane resin material to the first layer (20) prior to full curing of the first layer, the polyurethane resin material layer being chemically reactive with the first layer material to form an adhesive bond therebetween; at least partially curing both layers and removing the pot formed from the mould (5), wherein the second layer material is of higher flexibility than the first layer material when each layer is fully cured. Apparatus for performing the method is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignees: U.S. Filter Wastewater Group, Inc., Pall Seitzschenk Filtersystems GmbH
    Inventors: David John Cox, Georg Schnieder, Fufang Zha, Joachim Muller, Cinzia Lea
  • Patent number: 6964750
    Abstract: A tip for attachment, in use, to the distal end of a catheter for insertion into a body lumen. The tip comprises an attachment region. The attachment region is formed from a material selected to have at least one characteristic having a first parameter of a predetermined value to enable attachment at the tip in use. There is also a second region, connected to the attachment region. The second region is formed front a material selected to have the at least one characteristic defined by a second parameter value, the second parameter value being lower than the first parameter value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Assignee: Abbott Laboratories
    Inventor: Anthony Fulford
  • Patent number: 6960383
    Abstract: Combined boards are taught that comprise a second board substrate (12) having a through bore (14) formed therein, a first board substrate (10), and a connector pin (40, 50) received in the through bore (14) of the second board substrate (12). The first and second board substrates overlap such that the through bore (14) of the second board substrate (12) is covered by a first surface (10b) of the first board substrate (10). The connector pin is fusion bonded to a circumferential surface of the through bore (14) and the first surface (10b) of the first board substrate (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2005
    Assignee: Araco Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hitoshi Heta, Tamotsu Nagaya, Toshiaki Kondo, Masahiko Uchida, Makoto Suzuki
  • Patent number: 6958183
    Abstract: A first film plate 20 and a second film plate 40, each made of flexible resin film, are attached to a top surface and a bottom surface of a key top 30 made of mold-resin, respectively, so as to cover the key top 30. The first film plate 20 is pressed upward to form a recessed portion 23, the key top 30 is molded within this recessed portion 23. The second film plate 40 is arranged on the bottom surface of the key top 30. All of the first film plate 20, the key top 30, and the second film plate 40 are transparent. Decorative layers 21 and 41 are formed on the first film plate 20 and the second film plate 40, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Assignee: Teikoku Tsushin Kogyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tatsuya Okamura, Kimitane Kimura, Yasuo Kojima, Atsushi Hari, Shinji Mizuno
  • Patent number: 6951611
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for producing hollow fiber membrane-containing filters. The methods include laying a plurality of hollow fibers in a first portion of a filter housing to form a bundle, forming first and second portions into a filter housing, sealing the portions together, connecting the plurality of hollow fibers together at at least one end of the filter housing, connecting the hollow fibers to the filter housing, and simultaneously adhering the first and second portions of the filter housing together by applying a potting compound thereto, and cutting the ends of the hollow fibers at at least one end thereof, whereby the hollow fibers include open ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2005
    Assignee: Gambro Dialysatoren GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Jürgen Dannenmaier, Herbert Raabe, Manfred Pirner
  • Patent number: 6949709
    Abstract: The invention concerns a method for making a dashboard subassembly comprising electrical and/or electronic components (1) connected to conductors (2) and attached to a rigid support (3). The invention is characterized in that it consists in: providing a flexible mat (4) provided with said conductors (2); mounting said components (1) on said mat (4), connected to said electrical conductors (2); rigidizing said mat (4) by overmoulding it with a material designed to form said support (3). The invention also concerns a dashboard subassembly, in particular a motor vehicle dashboard console, obtained by said method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Assignees: Valeo, Visteon Systemes Interieurs
    Inventors: Didier Barat, Andrew Nash
  • Patent number: 6923929
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing a waste block includes forming an outer housing by compressing soil material and engaging into and compressing a waste insert in the outer housing, for allowing the waste insert to be solidly and safely retained within the outer housing, and for preventing the waste insert from polluting the outer environment. The waste block may include one or more recesses or notches or juts or bulges for engaging with each other and for stably superposing a number of waste block together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Inventor: Kang Chin Lin
  • Patent number: 6911172
    Abstract: A wireless ad hoc pico network is formed by eyewear and other devices such as a computer, a bracelet and a telephone having similar transceivers mounted on them. The eyewear includes a frame and connected to the frame are two temples. Temples are connected to frame via hinges. Temples have a male portion of a connector incorporated in them. Female portion of the connector is made integral with the hinges. When the male portion is inserted in the female portion the temple is attached to the frame. The temples can be removed by pulling the connector apart, and a temple with different apparatus within it can be inserted in place of the removed temples. The temple may have co-molded within its body, an apparatus such as an audio device, a camera, a speaker, and a microphone, and a display device such as liquid crystal or an alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2005
    Assignee: Q.R. Spex, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory Swab, James E. Malackowski, Mikal Greaves, Rolf Milesi, Christine Ligtenberg, Thomas Meier
  • Patent number: 6911103
    Abstract: A thermoplastic elastomer composition produced from a thermoplastic resin and rubber and having a dispersion phase formed of a rubber composition at least part of which is dynamically crosslinked in the continuous phase of the thermoplastic resin, insulating glass using the thermoplastic elastomer composition as a sealing material and spacer, a process for producing the insulating glass using a sealing material made from the thermoplastic elastomer composition, comprising the steps of inserting the leading end of a charging nozzle into a space between the peripheral portions of a plurality of glass sheets, discharging the sealing material from the leading end of the nozzle body at a predetermined rate, and moving the glass sheets or the nozzle body relative to each other to charge the sealing material made from the thermoplastic elastomer composition into the space between the peripheral portions of the glass sheets, and a nozzle used in this process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2005
    Assignee: The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yukio Koizumi, Jiro Watanabe, Hidekazu Takeyama, Shigeru Yamauchi, Toru Serizawa
  • Patent number: 6896951
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for fabricating a decorative laminate panel, wherein the decorative laminate panel includes a decorative laminate layer and a core. The method is achieved by forming a decorative laminate of a predetermined size, placing the decorative laminate within a die cavity, injection molding the core within the die cavity while the decorative laminate remains within the die cavity to form a decorative laminate panel and releasing the formed decorative laminate panel from the die cavity. The invention further relates to a decorative laminate panel manufactured in accordance with the method defined above and a unitary edge profile member adapted for use in the fabrication of a compound injection molded decorative laminate panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Premark RWP Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Nelson
  • Patent number: 6893704
    Abstract: The invention relates to a ballistic-resistant moulded article containing a compressed stack of monolayers, with each monolayer containing unidirectionally oriented reinforcing fibers and at most 30 wt. % of a plastic matrix material and with the fiber direction in each monolayer being rotated with respect to the fiber direction in an adjacent monolayer, characterized in that the density (?p) of the compressed stack is at least 98.0% of the theoretical maximum density. The invention also relates to a process for manufacturing the moulded article. The ballistic-resistant article may be used in, for instance, helmets, as inserts in bullet-proof vests, as armoring on military vehicles and in ballistic-resistant panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: DSM IP Assets B.V.
    Inventor: Leonardus L. H. van der Loo
  • Patent number: 6890464
    Abstract: A coating position at which an water sealing agent in an unsolidified condition is coated on an outer periphery of each wire is provided. A first mold formed with a groove and a second mold configured to be inserted into the groove are provided. The second mold has a molding face which defines a space between a bottom portion of the groove. The space has a cross section which is identical with a cross sectional shape of a through hole of a grommet through which the wires are inserted. The wires are conveyed one by one so as to pass through the coating position while coating the outer periphery of each wire with the water sealing agent. The wires coated with the water sealing agent are thrown into the groove of the first mold. The second mold is inserted into the groove to press the wires in the groove such that the unsolidified water sealing agent fills interstices of adjacent wires while solidifying the water sealing agent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventor: Hiroshi Suzuki
  • Patent number: 6884379
    Abstract: The process includes placing in a mold a pile of plies taken from a web of fibers embedded in a thermosetting or thermoplastic material, the plies being arranged according to preferred directions of the fibers, and subjecting the mold to particular pressure and temperature conditions. The process also includes carrying out successive operations of shaping the pile of plies in the mold, at low pressure, carried out progressively at low speed; removing the material in excess protruding out of edge of the mold; carrying out the tightness of the mold from outside; increasing the pressure up to high pressure; raising the temperature of the mold; and quickly cooling the mold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Inventor: Vincent Duqueine
  • Patent number: 6881371
    Abstract: An intermediate product is formed by combining together plurality of constituent elements. The intermediate product is arranged in a mold an then molten resin is charged in the mold. An opening is formed so as to correspond to a plus terminal, a minus terminal, and a temperature detecting terminal in the intermediate product, and its periphery is covered with the resin. Whereupon, a thin enclosed outer packaging body is realized that is made compact and offers excellent dust-proof, drip-proof structure. Alternatively, the intermediate product is housed in an outer packaging case having an open end that allows insertion of the intermediate product, and resin is charged in the open end, thereby achieving sealing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshinori Iwaizono, Shoji Konishi, Takeshi Ishimaru
  • Patent number: 6878328
    Abstract: A method for producing a plastic part having a first component and a second component connected to the first component. The method includes molding a temporary connection between the first component and a preliminary second component, coating at least a surface region of the first component, separating the first and preliminary second component, and then molding the second component to the first component. The plastic part can be an injection molded part and the components of the plastic part can be made using the same or different plastics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Assignee: Braun GmbH
    Inventors: Bernhard Boland, Götz Gardlo, Rainer Hans, Hansjörg Reick, Armin Schwarz-Hartmann
  • Patent number: 6875390
    Abstract: A method of making a multi-layered trim component for attachment to a structure of a vehicle is disclosed herein. The method includes providing a mold having a cavity formed therein which defining first and second surfaces. The mask is magnetically secured to the mold to cover the first surface. A first material is applied in the cavity so as to form a first layer conforming to the second surface. The mask is removed from the cavity of the mold. A second material is then applied in the cavity so as to form a second layer conforming to the first surface, wherein the first and second layers define a multi-layered trim component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventor: Glenn Cowelchuk
  • Patent number: 6875388
    Abstract: A molding-in-place technique for joint assemblies, such as a ball joint. The technique is particularly well suited for molding “in-place” a linkage structure about a joint structure. The technique uses a molding assembly having a plurality of centering and sealing structures for sealingly centering the linkage structure about the joint structure. A desired mold material is injected between the linkage structure and the joint structure “in-place” to provide a self-toleranced, self-retained, molded-in-place joint assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Jason K. Trotter, Robert K. Dutzi
  • Patent number: 6872346
    Abstract: A problem in the manufacture of filters using tubular membrane bundles is keeping potting material from flowing into the openings at the ends of the tubes. A preferred embodiment of a method for manufacturing a tubular membrane filter employs a non-contact heat source such as radiant heating to melt the tips of the tubular membranes. This prevents the migration of potting material into the tubes when the potting material is flowed into the ends of tube bundles during the manufacturing process for a filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Assignee: NxStage Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Martin Stillig
  • Patent number: 6866806
    Abstract: A method for securing an anode, a cathode and an ion exchange membrane disposed between the anode and the cathode within a premolded thermoplastic frame. The frame both secures the anode the cathode and the ion exchange membrane within the frame and further maintain the anode, cathode and membrane in intimate contact. Additionally, injection molding around the premolded thermoplastic frame may be performed or alternatively, injection molding around a plurality of thermoplastic frames.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Assignee: Lynntech International, Ltd.
    Inventors: Craig C. Andrews, Oliver J. Murphy, G. Duncan Hitchens
  • Patent number: 6863515
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an optical fiber recoating device. In the optical fiber recoating device, the bare fiber portion of an optical fiber is recoated by filling a recoating resin into molds made of a transparent or semi-transparent material and curing the recoating resin with light from a resin curing lamp that is provided to one side of either of molds. Furthermore, a reflective coating layer is provided to sides of molds where the resin curing lamp is not located, and the light from the resin curing lamp directly radiate and are reflected to radiate onto the bare fiber portion of optical fiber. As a result, the cost of the device is reduced and resin curing is promoted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Fujikura Ltd.
    Inventors: Takashi Nakamichi, Junichi Suzuki, Takeshi Sato
  • Patent number: 6854356
    Abstract: The steering wheel for motor vehicles has a hub, a steering wheel rim and a plurality of spokes connecting the steering wheel rim with the hub. The hub comprises a hub core for fastening to a steering shaft and a base body which surrounds the hub core and is made of a fiber-reinforced plastic material. The spokes are integrally and continuously molded with the base body of the hub from a fiber-reinforced plastic material. The steering wheel rim is integrally and continuously molded with the spokes from a fiber-reinforced plastic material. In this arrangement, the base body together with the spokes and the steering wheel rim forms a self-supporting shaped body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: TRW Automotive Safety Systems GmbH
    Inventor: Klaus Drefahl
  • Patent number: 6841105
    Abstract: A method of forming thermoplastic panels is disclosed which includes the steps of forming the thermoplastic panels by extrusion or a similar process and simultaneously or subsequently texturing or graining at least one face thereof, and utilizing such pre-textured or pre-grained panels to form a finished panel or article by disposing such panel in a thermoforming mold having at least one grained or textured mold surface against which the pre-textured or pre-grained surface of the panel is disposed and thermoforming such panel. The process provides a textured or grained surface having greatly improved uniformity and enhanced appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: Durakon Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary J. Nehring, John C. Montagna
  • Patent number: 6837746
    Abstract: A housing (10) is insert-molded around a core (30) holding terminal fittings (20). The core (30) is provided with a holdable portion (36) at a position exposed to outside through an opening (13) formed in the housing (10) and held in a molding die (50). Thus, the core (30) is prevented from displacements from its a proper position upon being subjected to an injection pressure of a resin. Further, the holdable portion (36) is located in a sealed area of a connector fitting portion (11) defined between the connector fitting portion (11) and a mating female connector (40), the entrance of water through the opening (13) can be prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.
    Inventor: Masaki Okamoto
  • Publication number: 20040265512
    Abstract: In a process for manufacturing a plastic pane (1, 1′, 1″) provided with embedded electrical conductors (4), in particular a window pane, in which the conductors are joined to a surface of a plastic sheet (2, 2′, 2″) which subsequently receives another layer of plastic by injection molding via the rear for the purpose of forming a pane body (3), in which the material of the plastic sheet and the injection-molded plastic are joined together directly by mutual adhesion, and in which that surface of the plastic sheet which is located on the opposite side from the conductors forms one of the outer faces of the finished pane, the electrical conductors are, in accordance with the invention, formed by furnishing with at least one metal wire (4) that surface of the plastic sheet (2, 2′, 2″) which is to be exposed to the rear injection molding.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Gerald Aengenheyster, Luc-Henry Blanche
  • Patent number: 6827894
    Abstract: A process for forming a multilayer composite insulator includes: (a) forming an insulator precursor by orienting an insulation insert in a desired location between a first facing layer of and a layer of a polymer based blanket material; (b) closing the insulator precursor in a molding press; (c) heating the insulator precursor in the molding press to a temperature sufficiently high to soften polymer binding fiber in the polymer based blanket material and cause reshaping; and (d) cooling the insulator precursor in the molding press so as to set the insulator precursor in its molded shape and complete formation of the insulator. Other relates processes are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: Owens Corning Fiberglas Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Allan Tilton, Cary E. Price
  • Patent number: 6824373
    Abstract: A foaming die for forming an armrest, which includes a pair of core die elements in addition to comprising upper and lower dies in which a trim cover assembly with a frame provided there is to be placed for foaming process. Both of the upper and lower dies have, formed therein, recessed die surfaces including local support regions in which the two core die elements can be temporarily secured together and supported against dislocation. Both two core die elements are so designed that they may respectively be attached on two lateral sides of the trim cover assembly and connected with the frame. Hence, the frame in the trim cover assembly can be positively retained in the upper and lower dies against rotation and dislocation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Assignee: Tachi-S Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yoshiyuki Takei
  • Patent number: 6793820
    Abstract: EVAL microporous hydrophilic hollow fiber membranes are formed from a casting dope that includes low and high molecular weight pore-formers. Post-fabrication treatment includes stretching, hot water soaking and crosslinking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: Ebara Corporation
    Inventors: Scott B. McCray, Dwayne T. Friesen, Delores R. Sidwell, David K. Lyon, Daichi Sakashita
  • Patent number: 6787086
    Abstract: A process for making a multi-layer sheet comprising: (1) extruding a sheet comprising a propylene polymer material; (2) forming a sheet by laying-up alternate layers; and (3) joining the sheets produced in steps (1) and (2) by applying heat to both sheets at a temperature sufficient to soften the surfaces to be joined, while simultaneously applying pressure to the sheet produced in step (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Inventor: Bakhtiar Alam Shah
  • Patent number: 6782619
    Abstract: A laminated multi-electrode biocompatible implant, comprising a first layer of flexible, biocompatible dielectric material having a first, exposed surface. A second layer of flexible biocompatible dielectric material, is adhered to the first layer. Further, a third layer of flexible biocompatible dielectric material is adhered to the second layer. Additionally, a first conductive trace is interposed between the first layer and the second layer and a second conductive trace interposed between said second layer and said third layer. Finally, a first conductor, which breaches said first layer, conductively connects the first conductive trace to the exposed surface of the first layer, thereby forming a first electrode and a second conductor, which breaches the first layer and the second layer, conductively connects the second conductive trace to the exposed surface of the first layer, thereby forming a second electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Assignee: Advanced Cochlear Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott S. Corbett, III, Timothy J. Johnson, Ben M. Clopton, Francis A. Spelman, Jeffery A. Strole, Joseph R. Ketterl
  • Patent number: 6779251
    Abstract: An assembly method for a vehicle anti-theft key having an embedded resistor pellet is provided. The resistor pellet includes a flange at one end which abuts one side of the key blade when the opposed end of the pellet is inserted into a through opening formed in the shank portion of the key blade. With the resistor pellet loosely positioned within the through opening, a second flange is attached to the end of the pellet that was inserted through the through opening, thereby capturing the pellet within the through opening by the two opposed flanges. In one embodiment, the second flange is formed in place by employing a polymeric molding process, such as a thermoforming injection molding process. A handle for the key is efficiently formed substantially simultaneously with the second flange using the same polymeric molding process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Assignee: Hurd Corporation
    Inventors: David C. Banks, Charles C. Edwards
  • Patent number: 6752951
    Abstract: The present invention relates (with reference to FIG. 1a) to a method of manufacture of an integrated camera and illumination device. The method comprises assembling together an optical sensor (12), illumination means (17) and associated electronic circuitry (10) into an assembled unit; placing the assembled unit into a mold; introducing an encapsulant in liquid state into the mold to surround the components therein; and the encapsulant solidifying to form an encapsulated assembly of optical sensor, illumination means and associated electronic circuitry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Assignee: Radiodetection Limited
    Inventors: Timothy Meek, Christopher David Reeve
  • Publication number: 20040113314
    Abstract: A skate frame (20) for an in-line skate (18) having a shoe portion (22) and a plurality of wheels (24) capable of traversing a surface. The skate frame includes an elongate structural member comprised of a structural material having a first average density. The structural member having first and second sidewalls (62 and 68), each having an upper end and a lower end. The structural member also includes a shoe mounting portion (50) spanning between at least a portion of the upper ends of the sidewalls. The first and second sidewalls having a wheel load introduction portion (58), wherein loads associated with the wheels are transferred to the structural member. The shoe mounting portion having a shoe load introduction portion, wherein loads associated with the shoe portion are transferred to the structural member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2003
    Publication date: June 17, 2004
    Applicant: K-2 Corporation
    Inventor: Dodd H. Grande
  • Patent number: 6737002
    Abstract: A chip-on-flex HDI module is fabricated by dispensing encapsulant material onto the components of a populated dielectric film or sheet in an interrupted pattern which leaves the backsides of selected components free of encapsulant. The dispensing is accomplished by relative motion of the dispenser tip and the populated film, with the dispenser tip at a height slightly above the desired liquid fill height during dispensing. At the locations of the components which are to be free of encapsulant, the dispensing stops, and the tip may be raised to prevent residual viscous matter on the dispenser tip from contacting the backside of the exposed component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: James Wilson Rose, Donald Leroy Lester, Christopher James Kapusta, Paul Alan McConnelee
  • Patent number: 6713009
    Abstract: A rotomolded plastic wall and ladder structure (10, 50, or 58)), which may be an article such as a window well (10) or a manhole (50 or 58), includes a thermoplastic wall (12), a ladder (16) whose rungs (18) each include an elongated metallic core (20) and a thermoplastic sleeve (22). Mold apparatus (70) includes a thermoplastic rotomold (72), an elongated hollow metallic core (20) having a heating passage (74) therein, and means for flowing hot air through the heating passage (74). The method includes disposing the hollow metallic core in a mold, placing a quantity of a thermoplastic inside a mold, heating the mold, rotating the heated mold, flowing heated air through the hollow metallic core, and bonding a layer of the thermoplastic onto the hollow metallic core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Assignee: Rotational Molding Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl W. Van Gilst
  • Patent number: 6713006
    Abstract: The shoe is obtained by depositing wedge (2), with or without a midsole (1), under the last incorporating cut (5), sewn to a gridded insole (6) and so that the top surface of the closure ring (4.1), a single one per size, of semimould (4) of outsole or sole (3) to be injected meets the top edge of wedge (2), then injecting the plastic of outsole or sole (3), which is of the same family as that of wedge (2), so that they fuse together, to which resulting set may or may not be later added the lower skid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Assignees: Dansko International Inc.
    Inventor: Juan Redin Gorraiz
  • Patent number: 6709614
    Abstract: A process for producing a connection of a structural component having at least one holding element, with a structural element, provision is made that on a surface of the structural element located in the zone of connection, at least one intermediate holding means is formed by means of an adhesive and curing pourable compound, such intermediate holding means being engageable with at least one holding element of the structural component in an actively holding joint. This method permits producing at favorable cost a connection which can be detached again at low labor expenditure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Henniges Elastomer- und Kunststofftechnik GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Bernhard Kreye
  • Patent number: 6702973
    Abstract: A wrapped film sealing system includes a conductive stud, a film layer wrapped around at least a portion of the length of the conductive stud, and a bushing including a channel passing between two open ends. The conductive stud passes through the channel and a seal is formed between the conductive stud, the film layer, and the bushing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: McGraw-Edison Company
    Inventor: David Servies
  • Patent number: 6699348
    Abstract: A method for the fabrication of a filter in a frame where a pre-formed pleated filter matrix is inserted into an injection mold tool. Then a suitable elastic thermoplastic material is injected into the tool. The amount of elastic thermoplastic material injected is less than the available space between the filter matrix and the tool so that the pressure will rapidly drop as the material flows from the point of injection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Camfil AB
    Inventors: Sverker Hugert, Jan Kogner
  • Patent number: 6696005
    Abstract: An optical sensor that includes a light source and a detector is located within a cavity in a polishing pad so as to face the surface that is being polished. Light from the light source is reflected from the surface being polished and the detector detects the reflected light. The electrical signal produced by the detector is conducted to a hub located at the central aperture of the polishing pad. The disposable polishing pad is removably connected, both mechanically and electrically to the hub. The hub contains electronic circuitry that is concerned with supplying power to the optical sensor and with transmitting the electrical signal to a non-rotating station. Several techniques are described for accomplishing these tasks. The system permits continuous monitoring of an optical characteristic of a surface that is being polished, even while the polishing machine is in operation, and permits the end point of the polishing process to be determined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: Strasbaugh
    Inventor: Alan Strasbaugh
  • Publication number: 20040019992
    Abstract: An agitator includes a high strength, continuous metal axle, a pulley held on one end of the metal axle and a sleeve of lightweight plastic material received over the axle. The agitator is manufactured by molding a pulley body onto an underlying metal support or D-nut, fitting an axle into the pulley, molding a sleeve around the axle and securing a cleaning structure on the sleeve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2003
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventors: Jeffrey T. Roney, Eric E. Muhlenkamp
  • Patent number: 6685864
    Abstract: A housing member for an actuator assembly for adjusting the orientation of a mirror element in a mirror assembly provides integral weather seals and noise dampeners. The weather seals and noise dampeners are injection molded with or onto a base wall of the housing member to thereby form seals and dampeners that have superior adhesion or mechanical retention to the housing member and, therefore, are not subject to degradation from noise. In addition, the integral seals and dampeners reduce the time and cost of assembling and servicing the actuator assembly. The housing member includes a base wall, and a sidewall which connects to the base wall and extends around the perimeter of the base wall. The side wall includes connectors for securing the first housing to the second housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Assignee: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventors: Robert Lee Bingle, David Kevin Willmore, Robert E. Schnell