Abstract: A method and machine for sealing at least one cut edge of a foam board is disclosed. The foam board has a top surface, a bottom surface and at least one cut edge extending between the top surface and the bottom surface. The cut edge is passed over a heated roller to soften the edge and then passed over a second roller having a temperature that is lower than the temperature of the first roller which seals the edge. The cut edge may be milled to square the edge relative to the top and bottom of the board before the cut edge is passed over the heated roller. Additional pairs of rollers may be provided to seal the top surface and the bottom surface of the foam board.

Abstract: Certain polymer materials, including perfluorosulfonic acid ionomers, have been found to be capable of being deformed from an initial permanent shape into three or more temporary shapes. An article thus formed from such a polymer material may be used initially in a final temporary shape. As the article is progressively heated, the polymer composition reverts successively from its final temporary shape through its intermediate temporary shapes. If a suitable temperature is reached, the original permanent shape is recovered. The article may be devised to serve successive functions in each of its several shapes.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods of preparing a composite sheet material having strength and barrier properties suitable for use as a housewrap, the methods comprising extrusion coating a polyolefin film layer onto a surface of an area-bonded, spunbond nonwoven substrate to form a composite sheet material, the composite sheet material having a grab tensile strength of at least 178 Newtons in at least one of the machine direction (MD) or the cross-machine direction (CD), and stretching the composite sheet material to impart to the composite sheet material a hydrostatic head of at least 100 cm, and a moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR) of at least 35 g/m2/24 hr at 50% relative humidity and 23° C.

Abstract: Method for imparting elasticity to a laminate comprising at least one elastic film having a width and at least one ply of non-woven material secured to the film, particularly through interposition of a bonding material, particularly glue, which comprises the following steps in which: the laminate is unrolled in the form of a web in order to pass it between two sets of toothing, of which the teeth engage in each other in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the laminate in order to thus stretch the laminate in the direction of its width, characterized in that: a tension is imparted to the web in the longitudinal direction or machine direction during its unrolling between the toothing, particularly by providing a tensioner roll, particularly downstream of the sets of toothing.

Abstract: Processes for making micro-textured webs. The process comprises providing a precursor web; providing a pair of mated forming structures, including a first forming structure and a second forming structure, wherein at least the first forming structure comprises voids, and wherein at least the second forming structure comprises protrusions; and moving the web through a deformation zone of the mated forming structures, wherein the voids of the first forming structure engage with the protrusions of the second forming structure at an engagement position. Discrete three-dimensional elements are formed in the web as the protrusions on the second forming structure engage with the voids on the first mating structure. At least one protrusion has center-to-center spacings of less than about 800 microns with at least three of its adjacent protrusions.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for continuously forming a composite material shape member having a varied cross-sectional shape. A C-shaped movable mold 100 having a center portion 110 and both end portions 120 and 130 with a smaller surface dimension than the center portion is prepared, and prepreg sheets are laminated in advance to the both end portions 120 and 130 and the center portion 110, then these plies of prepreg sheets are denoted as the laminate 320, so that the whole body has a flat planar surface. Prepreg sheets 300 are drawn out from rolls 210 and 220 and passed through a preforming device 230 so that a C-shaped member 310 having a uniform cross-sectional shape is preformed. The movable mold 100 with pre-laminate 320 is superposed to the preformed member 310, which is passed through a hot press device, an after-cure furnace 260 where thermosetting of the member is completed, and then the movable mold 100 is removed to complete a formed product.

Abstract: A laminated film for a reflecting plate is provided that comprises a layer A and a layer B, the layer A comprising a polyester that comprises substantially no antimony element and preferably comprises 1 to 25 wt % of inert particles having an average particle diameter of 0.3 to 3.0 ?m and the layer B being in contact with the layer A and comprising a polyester which preferably comprises 31 to 80 wt % of inert particles having an average particle diameter of 0.3 to 3.0 ?m. This laminated film has a practically satisfactory capability of reflecting visible light, can be produced stably even if inert particles are added in high concentration, hardly has streak-like defects, and can be suitably used as a substrate for a reflecting plate for a liquid crystal display or an internally illuminating electrical billboard.

Abstract: Material processing systems are disclosed. Some systems include methods of eliminating or reducing defects in elongate workpieces that can undergo large deformations during processing. Some systems include apparatus configured to facilitate such large deformations while maintaining internal stresses (e.g., tensile stresses) below a threshold stress. Some disclosed systems pertain to powder extrusion techniques. Continuous and batch processing systems are disclosed.

Abstract: The object of the invention is a new Sheet Molding Compound (SMC), Thick Molding Compound (TMC), or Bulk Molding Compound (BMC) comprising at thermosetting resin on the basis of renewable resources with which molded parts can be produced in a molding process at elevated temperature and pressure said process being suitable to produce molded parts in an industrial process.

Abstract: A method is provided for fabricating a nanochannel. The method comprises providing a microchannel and controlling collapse of the microchannel so that it collapses to form a nanochannel of desired dimensions. The method employs a collapsible, flexible material such as the elastomer polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) to form the nanochannel. A master is provided that is configured to have geometric conditions that promote a desired frequency of microchannel collapse. A collapsible material having a stiffness that also promotes a desired frequency of microchannel collapse is molded on the master. The molded collapsible material is removed from the master and bonded to a base, thereby forming the microchannel, which then collapses (or is collapsed) to form the nanochannel of desired dimensions. Nanofluidic and microfluidic devices comprising complex nanochannel structures and micro to nanochannel transitions are also provided.

Abstract: A material layering device. A material layering device may include a first pinning roller and a second pinning roller. The distance between the first pinning roller and the second pinning roller is less than a diameter of an substrate. The device also includes a return system, wherein the return system comprises a plurality of rollers. The device also includes a belt, which may have a first loop portion disposed between and protruding beyond the first pinning roller and the second pinning roller. The first loop portion also wraps about an intended substrate along an arc greater than about 180 degrees. The device further includes a feed portion coupled to the first loop and extending outwardly from the second pinning roller opposite the first loop and providing a surface upon which a sheet can be placed. Furthermore, the device also includes an adjustment mechanism coupled to one of the rollers.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming a transversely curved or formed strip of material which can be cut to length for use in a fabric for coverings for architectural opening includes a supply role of a flexible fabric strip material that is sequentially passed through a heating chamber with an elongated upwardly convex extrusion across which the strip material is drawn and a cooling station before being wrapped on a take-up drum. The apparatus includes driven rollers about which the strip material passes and the strip material is exposed to tension detectors and controlled temperatures such that the strip material formed in the apparatus is uniform along its length.

Abstract: A method, consisting of passing a cylindrical carbon fiber through a press so as to produce a flat ribbon. The method further includes weaving multiple strands of the flat ribbon together to create a cylindrical braid.

Abstract: An extruded, low-density, ethylenic polymer foam including from about 86% by volume to about 98% by volume open cells and a continuous, impervious surface skin is disclosed. The foam possesses superior compression recovery and lower compression resistance when compared with similarly comprised ethylenic closed-cell foams and superior moisture resistance and handling characteristics when compared to open-cell foams. A precursor composition and method for making the extruded, low-density, ethylenic polymer foam are also disclosed.

Abstract: A thermoplastic endless belt has a smooth outer surface substantially free of discontinuities and an inner surface with a plurality of teeth at a given belt pitch. The teeth are adapted to engage a sprocket with circumferentially spaced sheaves at a sprocket pitch greater than the belt pitch. The belt is slightly stretchable so that the sprocket can drive the endless belt when engaging the teeth within a range of load on the belt. The belt is preferred for use in conveyors in food processing industries where the smooth outer surface can transport food items and is easier to clean and keep free of impurities.

Abstract: A multi-ply tissue includes a first cellulosic embossed ply having an emboss pattern applied over a portion of its surface and a second cellulosic embossed ply of tissue. The first ply is contact laminated to the second ply so that the primary adhesion between the plies of tissue is the result of contact between cellulosic fibers. The first and second plies contact one another in contact areas, with the contact areas between the first and second plies defining compliant voids. The contact areas between the first ply and the second ply are elongated and/or rounded contact areas.

Abstract: A method for making apertures in a precursor web using a forming apparatus is provided where the web comprises a film having molecular orientation and the forming apparatus comprises an arrangement of teeth. The orientation of the arrangement of teeth and the molecular orientation of the film are predetermined and modified to provide a relative angle between the orientation of the teeth and the molecular orientation of the film. Apertures formed in the precursor web material have a length and width exhibiting a minimal aspect ratio.

Abstract: Plastic-worked lumber. PW1 and PW2 has air-dried specific gravity twice or more than those of lumber before processing NW1 and NW2 and acute crossing angles within a range of 45 degrees or less. The acute crossing angles are formed by all of annual ring lines RL on a butt end surface of the plastic-worked lumber PW1 or PW2 and a heart-side cross grain surface or a pith-side straight grain surface of the plastic-worked lumber PW1 or PW2. The plastic-worked lumber PW1 and PW2 is prepared by heating and compression to lumber NW1 or NW2 so that the lumber NW1 or NW2 is heated and compressed in a thickness direction thereof and plastically worked.

Abstract: According to an aspect of the present invention, a stent is provided, which contains at least one filament that has a longitudinal axis and comprises a bioabsorbable polymeric material. Polymer molecules within the bioabsorbable polymeric material are provided with a helical orientation which is aligned with respect to the longitudinal axis of the filament. The stent is at least partially bioabsorbed by a patient upon implantation or insertion of the stent into the patient.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a solid wood section material and its manufacturing method. This invention is achieved by the following technical plans: a type of surface-reinforced solid wood product, including a compacted layer and a natural layer connected with fibre, has total density of between 350 and 750 kg/m3, moisture content between 5 and 12%, corrosion grade greater than II and weight loss less than or equal to 24%. This invention is particularly suitable to make floor boards.

Abstract: There is provided a nanoimprint apparatus. The nanoimprint apparatus transfers a pattern formed on a surface of a mold to a transfer layer which is formed partially or entirely on a side surface of a substantially cylindrical or columnar substrate. The nanoimprint apparatus includes: a first jig which is in contact with the substrate 102; a second jig which rotatably supports the first jig; a press unit which is connected to the second jig to press the substrate on the mold 104 through the first and second jigs; and a movable holding unit which holds the mold and moves the mold 104 in a direction substantially perpendicular to a pressing force.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing an ink stick for use in a phase change ink jet imaging device comprises heating phase change ink material to an extrusion temperature at which the phase change ink material is in a malleable state. The heated ink material is then extruded through an extrusion orifice to form an extruded element. A forging element is then pressed against the extruded element to form an ink stick.

Abstract: A web can comprise a substantially continuous fiber mass and a separation means dispersed into the fiber. The web having a preferred thickness resulting from forming a polymer material and a particulate into a fine fiber layer can have a variety of end uses. A filtration media can include a structure comprising such a web of fine fiber and a substantial volume of particulate embodiment of the separation means. The resulting fine fiber structure provides an improved filtration medium having substantial depth, thickness, and a layered structure. The improved properties of the web results from inclusion of the separation or spacer particulate.

Abstract: The invention relates to a multilayer, antimicrobially modified, biaxially oriented polyester film that includes at least one base layer (B) and an outer layer (A) that has been applied to the base layer and that has also been antimicrobially modified, wherein the antimicrobially modified outer layer (A) comprises a silver-loaded zeolite, has a layer thickness <8 ?m, and the layer thickness is not greater than 1.3 times the median particle size of the zeolite. The invention further relates to a process for the production of the film, and to the use of the film.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for cutting compressible cellular polymers such as polyurethane foam, are characterized by a first die roller and a pressure roller, wherein both rollers define raised portions separated by recesses or depressions, and the raised portions on the first die roller register with the recesses of the pressure roller at a nip formed between the rollers. Portions of the polymer material extruded into the spaces between the raised portions of the first die roller are cut away, such that the cut product conforms substantially to the surface geometry of the first die roller, and the depth of cut is greater than with prior rotary cutting methods.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for a calendering system is provided to allow for fine gauge adjustment of the product. The calender system has a first and second roller each having a first and second end mounted in opposed end supports. The end supports each have an inlet and an outlet in fluid communication with one or more internal passages, wherein a heat transfer medium may be circulated through the one or more internal passages. The heat transfer medium may either heat or cool the internal passages of the end supports, resulting in the respective increase or decrease in the gauge of the product.

Abstract: The present invention relates to oriented films having improved shrinkage force, shrinkage temperature, tear strength, seal strength and/or bubble stability. For example, the shrink tension of the oriented film stretched at 110° C. is less than 3 MPa. The oriented film comprises a polymer composition comprising at least one ethylene/?-olefin interpolymer, wherein the ethylene/?-olefin interpolymer may have, for example, a Mw/Mn from about 1.7 to about 3.5, at least one melting point, Tm, in degrees Celsius, and a density, d, in grams/cubic centimeter, wherein the numerical values of Tm and d correspond to the relationship: Tm>?6553.3+13735(d)?7051.7(d)2.

Abstract: Various methods are provided for forming tissue holding devices having predetermined shapes suitable for use in surgical applications, and devices formed in accordance with such methods are also provided. These methods include press forming methods, and press forming methods in combination with profile punching. Tissue holding devices formed in accordance with such methods include various configurations for a core and a plurality of tissue holding elements extending outwardly from the core.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a syringe for use in enteral feeding includes providing a premolded syringe body having a plunger end and an outlet end, loading the premolded syringe body into a mold having a core pin extending into the outlet end of the premolded syringe body, closing the mold to thereby retain the premolded syringe therein and to close a mold cavity around the outlet end of the syringe body, injection molding by injecting plastic molding material into the mold cavity and cooling to thereby form a tip at the outlet end of the premolded syringe body, and opening the mold and extracting the syringe body and the tip.

Abstract: A process for simultaneously activating two or more portions of a web in different directions. The process involves feeding a web into an apparatus that includes a pair of intermeshing activation rolls having three dimensional surface features configured to simultaneously activate different portions a web in different directions. The three dimensional surface features are arranged in discrete regions on the rolls such that at least two of the regions provide different directions of activation. The rolls include one or more buffer regions positioned between the discrete regions on the roll that provide different directions of activation.

Abstract: A method for treating a film by providing a structure including a substrate and an array of upstanding projections each of which includes multiple contact points. The structure is pressed against the surface of a polymeric film to cause deformation or rupture of the film. The film may then be pressed to partially reseal the perforations. The structure can be produced by electroplating a mould which includes an array of elements of dimensions corresponding to the projections of the desired structure.

Abstract: According to an aspect of the present invention, a stent is provided, which contains at least one filament that has a longitudinal axis and comprises a bioabsorbable polymeric material. Polymer molecules within the bioabsorbable polymeric material are provided with a helical orientation which is aligned with respect to the longitudinal axis of the filament. The stent is at least partially bioabsorbed by a patient upon implantation or insertion of the stent into the patient.

Abstract: A process is proposed for producing a free-flowing and storage-stable solid comprising essentially ?-alanine-N,N-diacetic acid and/or one or more derivatives of ?-alanine-N,N-diacetic acid proceeding from a powder of ?-alanine-N,N-diacetic acid and/or one or more derivatives of ?-alanine-N,N-diacetic acid by a. compacting the powder of ?-alanine-N,N-diacetic acid on a roller press to obtain slugs, b. crushing the slugs and c. screening the crushed slugs, which comprises performing the compaction on the roller press with addition of polyethylene glycol with a melting point greater than 35° C.

Abstract: A process of producing a blanket is described and can involve forming an aqueous slurry of hydrophobic aerogels, fibers, and at least one wetting agent, drying the aqueous slurry to form a substantially dried product, and calendaring the substantially dried product to form the blanket. The blanket can be used in a variety of applications, including windows.

Abstract: A method for forming a flare in the end of a flexible tube comprises heating the end of the flexible tube to a near-melted state, inserting the end of the flexible tube into a flare-forming die with a flare forming portion, and pressing a mandrel into the end of the flexible tube, thereby pressure forming a flare in the end of the flexible tube.

Abstract: An optical film manufacturing method, comprising steps of: forming a film by casting a liquid-state resin; embossing both ends of the formed film in a lateral direction of the film so as to form embossed sections for conveying the film; conveying the film having the embossed sections by a freely rotatable conveyance roller; trimming and removing the embossed sections of the film after the conveying step; and winding up the film.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for performing a manufacturing operation at a plurality of locations along the length of a previously fabricated flexible conduit. The apparatus comprises a driving mechanism, a manufacturing station, and a support device. The conduit is first fed through the manufacturing station. The manufacturing station then performs the manufacturing operation at a plurality of locations along the length of the conduit. The support device within the conduit is not attached to any other structure and provides structural support at the manufacturing station during the manufacturing operation and remains at a generally fixed axial and functional location while the conduit continues to move axially.

Abstract: A method for producing a machine direction and cross-machine direction elastic laminate includes the steps of providing a one direction elastic laminate material including at least one elastic layer and one facing layer and having a single direction of elasticity and coursing the one direction elastic laminate material through at least one stretching apparatus, such that the stretching apparatus stretches the laminate material in a direction perpendicular to the single direction of elasticity of the elastic laminate material, thereby producing a material that extends in a direction perpendicular to the direction of elasticity and also extends the elastic performance of the laminate in the single direction of elasticity.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a process for forming a plurality of multi-layered filaments from multiple thermoplastic synthetic polymers and an apparatus containing a melt spinning beam which comprises multiple polymer inlet passages each communicating with separate multiple coat hanger distribution manifolds, separate filters connected downstream of each coat hanger distribution manifold, a combining manifold connected downstream of the filters and containing channels to retard polymer flow across planar molten polymer flow streams and a spinneret comprising a plurality of spinneret exit orifices connected downstream of the combining manifold for spinning of the multi-layered filaments.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for making a foam-in-place cushion in which a foam-forming composition is dispensed between two plastic film portions in a predetermined fashion to selectively control the distribution of the foam in the cushion. A foam dispenser can be moved in a transverse direction as foam is dispensed. A dispersion device can be employed to apply pressure on predetermined areas of the film portions towards each other so as to cause the composition to be redistributed in position in a predetermined manner while the composition is in a less than fully expanded state. The plastic film can then be sealed closed to form an expanding foam cushion that can be placed into a shipping carton where the cushion expands to fill void space, or into a mold where the cushion expands and is molded into a desired shape.

Abstract: A nonwoven web of fibers that have a number average diameter of less than 1 micron. The web can have a Poisson Ratio of less than about 0.8, a solidity of at least about 20%, a basis weight of at least about 1 gsm, and a thickness of at least 1 micrometer.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for continuously preforming a prepreg material impregnated with thermosetting resin in an uncured state. A sheet of prepreg material is drawn out from a roller, laminated, and bent into a given cross-sectional shape via a bending device. The prepreg material is then continuously formed via a mold having a heater into a long product. The heat and pressure applied to the prepreg material in the mold is selected from a heating temperature that does not completely cure the thermosetting resin and a pressure range enabling the prepreg material to maintain the formed state. The above-mentioned preforming method enables to form members having a loose curvature (for example, a radius of 7 m or smaller) or stringers having a continuously varied curvature.

Abstract: A method of applying a length of discontinuous fiber material to a surface comprises placing the material between a roller and the surface, urging the roller toward the surface such that the roller causes at least a portion of the length of discontinuous fiber material to engage the surface, and applying the length of discontinuous fiber material to the surface by moving one of said roller and said surface relative to the other such that the roller rolls along an application path of said surface. The application path may include one or more curves, wherein a first portion of the material lengthens relative to a second portion of the material, thereby allowing the material to lay evenly against the surface through the one or more curves without separating from the surface.

Abstract: A method of making a composite tubular article made up of at least two concentric members, the outer of said members being tubular and the inner of said members being at least cylindrical and preferably tubular, and struts disposed in supporting and positioning orientation between the inner and outer members, by extruding a moldable material into the desired profile; stretching the inner tubular member over a cooling mandrel and disposing a cooling sleeve over the outer tubular member under conditions sufficient to solidify the article; twisting and longitudinally pulling the solidified article, so that it rotates over the cooling mandrel and inside the cooling sleeve while it is moving down stream across the cooling mandrel, whereby causing the extrudate to be twisted into a helical shape.

Abstract: A die for producing wide, flat, plastic-based structures including a base and a cover. The die includes a plurality of ducts for feeding molten plastic, opening into a distribution channel, and a longitudinal outflow slot for outputting the molten plastic in a form of a substantially flat structure. The distribution channel and the outflow slot communicate via a plurality of distributors of generally triangular section having a downstream apex, near to which a feed duct emerges, and two upstream apexes forming intersections of the distribution channel and of the outflow slot, each feed duct being fed with molten plastic via an upstream orifice of the die that is specific thereto.

Abstract: The melt strength and hence the processing window of blends of polycarbonate and PBT can be enhanced without degradation in the surface appearance of the article produced when relatively minor amounts of certain selected polymers are added to the blend. For example, a composition that has a thermoforming processing window of at least 15° C. for an article having a weight that is more than 100 grams, may contain 15 to 80% by weight of a polycarbonate resin; 10 to 80% by weight of polybutylene terephthalate, and 1 to 15% by weight of a semicrystalline melt strength enhancer. The meklt strength enhancer is polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycyclohexane-dimethyl terephthalate (PCT), polycyclohexanedimethyl terephthalate glycol (PCT-G), and (poly)ethylene co 1,4 cyclohexanedimethylene terephthlate (PET-G), or a combination thereof.

Abstract: A process for melting powders of a semiconductor material, such as silicon, to yield a high-purity solid product. The process generally entails introducing the powder into an elevated end of a tube inclined from horizontal and, while maintaining an inert atmosphere within the tube, rotating the tube so as to agitate and cause the powder therein to flow toward an oppositely-disposed lower end of the tube while heating the tube so that the powder melts as it flows toward the lower end of the tube. The molten material is then allowed to flow freely from the lower end of the tube and subsequently solidify to form a product.

Abstract: A turning bar draw-off device for a tubular film extrusion installation, with a plurality of turning bars which can be rotatingly driven around a common axis of rotation or in reverse by rotary drive mechanisms. For the rotating or reversing guidance of the turning bars around the axis of rotation, the ends of each turning bar are connected with guide carriages, which are guided on guide rails arranged in a circle.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for a calendering system is provided to allow for fine gauge adjustment of the product. The calender system has a first and second roller each having a first and second end mounted in opposed end supports. The end supports each have an inlet and an outlet in fluid communication with one or more internal passages, wherein a heat transfer medium may be circulated through the one or more internal passages. The heat transfer medium may either heat or cool the internal passages of the end supports, resulting in the respective increase or decrease in the gauge of the product.

Abstract: An apparatus for producing a thermoplastic synthetic resin sheet or film has a casting mechanism having support rollers each mounted to undergo rotation about a corresponding rotational axis and one of which is mounted to undergo non-rotational displacement relative to the other support rollers. A casting sleeve is entrained around the support rollers for rotation therewith. A casting roller is mounted for undergoing rotation relative to the casting sleeve. A synthetic resin material is fed between opposite and confronting outer peripheral surfaces of the casting sleeve and the casting roller while rotating the casting sleeve and the casting roller and while effecting non-rotational displacement of one of the support rollers to holdingly press the synthetic resin material between the casting sleeve and the casting roller and thereby form the synthetic resin material into a thermoplastic synthetic resin sheet or film.