Flexible Fluid Pressure Patents (Class 425/DIG19)
  • Patent number: 5798070
    Abstract: A molding machine comprises a mold composed of lower and upper mold sections. A recess is defined in the lower mold section to receive a lead frame or other objects. The lead frame is sandwiched between the upper and lower mold sections. A mold cavity is defined in the lower mold section below the recess so as to receive a thermosetting resin or encapsulant. A gasket groove is defined adjacent to the mold cavity to receive a gasket. The gasket is subject to plastic deformation upon application of force. An oil chamber is communicated with the gasket groove and contains hydraulic oil. The hydraulic oil is pressurized to urge the gasket against the lead frame. As a result, the gasket is so deformed as to closely contact the surface of the lead frame and seal the mold cavity. The hydraulic oil is preferably mixed with thermoplastic resin in powder form.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1998
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kunito Sakai, Kazuharu Oshio, Hirozoh Kanegae
  • Patent number: 5693277
    Abstract: A novelty candle having flat sides incorporating a plurality of defined shapes located at the outer surface of the flat sides of the candle and a method of making same are provided. The method has the steps of: forming a sheet of wax to a desired thickness; heating the sheet of wax to below the melting temperature of the wax; cutting a plurality of shapes from the heated sheet of wax; arranging the plurality of shapes in a mold having an interior defined by flat sidewalls flush against the flat sidewalls and filling the interior of the mold with wax. In another embodiment, a novelty candle having a tree-like wax ornamentation on the surface thereof and a method of making same are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1997
    Inventor: Michael R. Widmer
  • Patent number: 5656051
    Abstract: The invention relates to a cooling method and a mold arrangement for the manufacture of glass articles or similar materials. The mold arrangement of this type includes a plurality of cooling passageways distributed independently and longitudinally around of the periphery of said mold, for the flow of a cooling fluid. A fluid distribution chamber coupled in coincidence with the cooling passageways, for the flow of the cooling flow, independently for each one of said passageway of the mold. A fluid regulating plate is coupled with the fluid distribution means, to regulate independently the flow of cooling in each one of the passageways of the mold, to regulate and control the cooling curve of said mold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 12, 1997
    Assignee: Vidriera Monterrey, S.A.
    Inventor: Rafael Mares-Benavides
  • Patent number: 5545026
    Abstract: A platen for applying pressure during hydroforming of polycarbonate and similar sheet material includes a flexible diaphragm for applying pressure in response to hydraulic fluid under pressure within a platen cavity and a diaphragm circumscribing sealing member for inhibiting seepage of hydraulic fluid and for preventing outward migration of the material of the diaphragm during a hydroforming operation. The junction between the sealing member and the diaphragm is conforming and void free to prevent hydraulic fluid flow therebetween. To help contain the hydraulic fluid within the platen cavity, a circumscribing inwardly extending foot of the diaphragm provides a mechanical and dynamic seal against an adjacent surface of the platen cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1996
    Inventors: Michael L. Fritz, Alton L. Fritz
  • Patent number: 5492664
    Abstract: A primary outer shell includes, in its most preferred embodiment, a base and a wall which includes at least one embedded foreign object and defines openings into an inner cavity containing a burnable candle member which causes the outer shell to glow and cast shadows without melting. The outer shell is constructed according to a unique molding method which includes at least partially immersing a swollen distensible mold, such as a water-filled balloon, into a reservoir of molding material, such as wax, to allow the molding material to form a molded shell around the distensible mold. After the distensible mold with the attached molded shell is removed from the reservoir of molding material, it is placed upon a flat surface to form a flat bottom into the molded shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1996
    Inventor: Creighton Cutts
  • Patent number: 5466146
    Abstract: A platen for applying pressure during hydroforming of polycarbonate and similar sheet material includes a flexible diaphragm for applying pressure in response to hydraulic fluid under pressure within a platen cavity and a diaphragm circumscribing sealing member for inhibiting seepage of hydraulic fluid and for preventing outward migration of the material of the diaphragm during a hydroforming operation. The junction between the sealing member and the diaphragm is conforming and void free to prevent hydraulic fluid flow therebetween. To help contain the hydraulic fluid within the platen cavity, a circumscribing inwardly extending foot of the diaphragm provides a mechanical and dynamic seal against an adjacent surface of the platen cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 14, 1995
    Inventors: Michael L. Fritz, Alton L. Fritz
  • Patent number: 5427518
    Abstract: In order to produce multilayer structures of composite materials by draping recut elementary layers on a shaping mold, an installation is proposed which comprises, apart from the mold, a gripping tool which can e.g. be fitted on the articulated arm of a robot. The shaping mold comprises a flexible membrane equipped with suction cups ensuring the gripping of the elementary precut layers. A vacuum circuit makes it possible to engage the membrane on a countermold placed behind the latter in order to shape the grasped elementary layer. When the tool is brought onto the mold, a pressure source acts on the membrane in order to compact the elementary later on the mold. A suction system keeps the layer on the mold following the release of the suction by the cups.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1995
    Assignee: Societe Nationale d'Etude et de Construction de Moteurs d'Aviation SNECMA
    Inventors: Richard A. P. Morizot, Jean-Yves M. Nioche
  • Patent number: 5299926
    Abstract: A novel spinning apparatus is provided with a tubular coagulating liquid flow control valve body made of an elastomeric material and whose inner diameter is changeable according to external pressure. The valve body has a simple structure and is easy to retrofit to a conventional spinning apparatus. When dope is extruded, a mass of dope with gelled skin can pass easily and quickly through the opened valve body so that the spinning workability at the start of spinning is high. Further, since the coagulating liquid flows smoothly, the spinning speed can be increased without damaging the filaments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 5, 1994
    Assignee: Sumika-Hercules Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shigeru Nakajima, Tadao Marui
  • Patent number: 5023042
    Abstract: Sailboards having a tucked rail are made from a flexible, resilient mold so that the seam of the board is along its bottom edge instead of at its point of greatest breadth. A flexible mold part having the contour of the sailboard to be produced has an opening smaller than the greatest breadth of the board. The mold is first flexed so that its opening is sufficiently wide to receive the blank that forms the body of the sailboard. Secondly, the blank is inserted into the flexed mold, and thirdly, the mold is released and its resiliency returns it to its original shape. A conventional rigid mold part closes the open end, and a vacuum is applied to form the final product. The flexible mold part is flexed a second time to remove the product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 11, 1991
    Inventor: Gary Efferding
  • Patent number: 4946640
    Abstract: A method for the shaping of a sheet of preform material. A flat planar (heated) sheet of preform material is held tightly between two elastomeric sheets, the sheets and preform material forming a laminate assembly. The laminate assembly is then formed about a mold having the desired contours. The elastomeric sheets maintain the preform material parallel to the surface contours of the mold as the molding process proceeds. A fluid such as air is flowed between the mold surface and the laminate assembly during the forming process to prevent the elastomeric sheets from binding on the mold surface. Wrinkles are eliminated in the final shape of the preform material, and fiber distortion of tears or rips in the material are minimized due to the fluid lubrication between the mold surface and the laminate assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 7, 1990
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company
    Inventor: Nazim S. Nathoo
  • Patent number: 4943222
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for the shaping of a sheet of preform material. A flat planar (heated) sheet of preform material is held tightly between two elastomeric sheets of the apparatus, the sheets and preform material forming a laminate assembly. The laminate assembly is then formed about a mold having the desired contours. The elastomeric sheets maintain the preform material parallel to the surface contours of the mold as the molding process proceeds. A fluid such as air is flowed between the mold surface and the laminate assembly during the forming process to prevent the elastomeric sheets from binding on the mold surface. Wrinkles are eliminated in the final shape of the preform material, and fiber distortion or tears or rips in the material are minimized due to the fluid lubrication between the mold surface and the laminate assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 24, 1990
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company
    Inventor: Nazim S. Nathoo
  • Patent number: 4898705
    Abstract: A method for producing a synthetic resin union joint, the method including the steps of forming a union nut having a screw portion and a union sleeve of an elastically softenable material, the union sleeve having a union swivel end and a connecting end, heating a length of the union nut at least equal to a thickness dimension of the flange part but not extending to the screw portion so as to elastically soften the length of the union nut, abutting one end of a truncated cone-shaped expansion guide with an end face of the union swivel end, shifting and enlarging the length of the union nut along the expansion guide so as to pass over the union swivel end and so that the union nut passes over the guide, and returning the length of the union nut to its original configuration due to a restoring force of the elastically softenable material so as to be positioned within the union swivel end and the connecting end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 6, 1990
    Assignee: Kubotatekko Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Junsuke Kyomen, Masayuki Sakaguchi, Hiroto Fujii
  • Patent number: 4891179
    Abstract: A method of consolidating a tubular composite article of polymeric matrix material and fibrous reinforcing material, comprising enclosing a length of the tubular composite article in a tubular protective member and advancing the protective member to carry the length of the article thus enclosed through a consolidation zone wherein the article is progressively subjected to consolidating temperature and pressure. The method enables the composite to be pulled through the consolidation zone without the distortion which tends to occur in standard "pultrusion" methods owing to surface friction and longitudinal tension on the composite.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1990
    Assignee: Textilver S.A.
    Inventors: Donald G. Peacock, Stanley W. Kirkham
  • Patent number: 4886442
    Abstract: An apparatus for forming composite members has a frame assembly which is lowered onto a table. A sheet of vacuum bagging material, supported by the frame, covers a tooling surface on the table. Attached to the sheet is a downwardly depending seal which continuously extends around the sheet's periphery. This seal inserts into an upwardly opening channel that surrounds the perimeter of the table's tooling surface as the frame is lowered. The seal is inflated while in the channel and this provides in airtight seal between the sheet and tooling surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1989
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Peter D. McCowin, Paul E. Nelson
  • Patent number: 4879073
    Abstract: A method of molding a polymeric containing article by exposing the article to ultraviolet radiation and a substantially uniform pressure. The method includes placing the precursor article within a pressure vessel and substantially filling the vessel with a solid, flowable, polymer medium that is substantially ultraviolet transparent under pressure. The polymer medium is pressurized so as to produce a substantially, uniform predetermined pressure on the surface of the article and the article is exposed to ultraviolet radiation that passes through the polymer medium to cure the article. Alternatively, the polymeric article may be passed through the medium containing vessel during exposure to ultraviolet radiation and a substantially uniform pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1988
    Date of Patent: November 7, 1989
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventor: Robert V. Kromrey
  • Patent number: 4765166
    Abstract: A press for shaping a sheet metal blank in a cavity with a forming tool which determines the shape of the finished product. The sheet is pressed against the tool by a diaphragm which is influenced by a pressure medium on the side facing away from the cavity. The forming tool consists of an inexpensive casting material supported in a cup-shaped container. The space between the bottom and sides of the container and the bottom and sides of the cavity is filled with an elastic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 23, 1988
    Assignee: ASEA Aktiebolag
    Inventors: Carl Bergman, Lennart Svensson
  • Patent number: 4755341
    Abstract: A method particularly adapted for making a complex shaped composite component that has reduced bridging defects. The method comprises disposing a composite prepreg on to a substantially flat tool. The composite prepreg has a substantially flat section and at least one prepreg member extending from and substantially perpendicular to said flat section. A layer, at least about 125% of said composite prepreg height, of a said flowable particulate silicone rubber is disposed in substantially complete contact with the composite prepreg surface. The particulate silicone rubber has a flow rate of at least 0.6 gram/second through a 1.1 cm diameter pipe 7.6 cm long under applied pressure of 10.34 MPa at room temperature. The layer of solid flowable rubber is covered with a bag to effect a gas tight seal. The bag is exposed to pressures which are transferred to said prepreg by said solid flowable polymer. The composite prepreg is exposed to temperatures to form a composite component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1986
    Date of Patent: July 5, 1988
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Richard T. Reavely, Peter C. Ogle, Robert V. Kromrey
  • Patent number: 4748837
    Abstract: A process for manufacturing a spherical shell from a blank utilizing dies, comprising the steps of forming and clamping a flange portion of the blank by pressing with the dies and applying fluid pressure to an elastic diaphragm or flat metal sheet to cause the diaphragm or sheet to bulge the blank so as to form a curved shell surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1986
    Date of Patent: June 7, 1988
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Kurosawa, Izumi Ochiai, Yoshio Asahino
  • Patent number: 4732639
    Abstract: A bonding apparatus for vacuum bagging is disclosed comprising a base having a top surface provided with an outer peripheral vacuum manifold, a diaphragm having a top member and side walls adapted for placement on the base and in conjunction therewith defining a chamber encompassing a work piece; one or more evacuation ports formed in the base or the diaphragm adapted for connection to a vacuum source whereby the chamber may be evacuated of ambient atmosphere to form a vacuum therein; and an edge member associated with the side walls, including a solid, conformable seal adapted to seal the vacuum manifold and to provide at least a primary seal thereagainst. In one embodiment, intended for autoclaving applications, a seal providing both primary and secondary sealing is disclosed. The diaphragm, edge member and seal preferably comprise an elastomeric material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1986
    Date of Patent: March 22, 1988
    Inventor: Cosby M. Newsom
  • Patent number: 4715805
    Abstract: A laminate consisting of a number of air-permeable sheets of a material is placed on the supporting surface of a table, and a major portion of the periphery of the laminate, inclusive of a lower surface thereof, is covered with a sheet impermeable to air. A suction pipe is arranged on the supporting surface along at least one side surface of the laminate and has a suction port faced toward the one side surface. A periheral portion of the suction port is covered with the air-impermeable sheet, and the laminate is compressed in the direction of its thickness by evacuating air from within a space defined by the air-impermeable sheet by vacuum producing means connected to the suction pipe. The air-impermeable sheet and laminate can be moved together with the suction pipe in parallel relation to the supporting surface, and they can be stopped at a desired position, during the evacuation process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1987
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1987
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Kawakami Seisakusho
    Inventor: Nobuo Nasu
  • Patent number: 4715923
    Abstract: Fiber-reinforced resin deposits or other materials are consolidated in a noncontact-frictionless manner through the use of a pressurized plenum chamber (20) of a fluid bearing (10). The fluid bearing (10) is flexible and floats relative to the material (16) to be consolidated so that ply drop-offs and other variations in the thickness or surface contour of the material are easily accommodated. While within the plenum chamber, the material is locally heated by radiant energy from a source (30) positioned within the chamber. This localized heating enables the material to solidify in cooler zones of the plenum chamber under a uniform pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 1985
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1987
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Frederick L. Knoll
  • Patent number: 4704082
    Abstract: The invention concerns an isostatic press mold for producing moldings from powdery ceramic material. The mold comprises two mold parts which are movable relative to one another between a mold-closed position and a mold-open position and which, in the mold-closed position, define between them a mold cavity. On at least one of the mold parts, there is a press diaphragm which on one side defines part of the limiting surface of the mold cavity and on the other side is subjected to a pressure fluid. On its said other side, that is to say on its side facing away from the mold cavity, the press diaphragm is designed with a plurality of recess spaces so that the press mold can be deformed, while at the same time reducing the internal stresses occurring in it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1986
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1987
    Assignees: Hutschenreuther AG, Eugen Buhler
    Inventors: Eugen Buhler, Klaus Strobel, Karl Schwarzmeier
  • Patent number: 4704240
    Abstract: A method of fabricating a fiber reinforced resin composite article having tubular structures that has improved density and fewer voids. The method comprises laying up a prepreg that has at least two tubular structures and disposing a thermally conductive metallic support structure within and in contact with the tubular structures. The prepreg is disposed within and in substantially complete contact with a tool which has at least one hole. An expandable bag having at least one opening in communication with a tube is inserted within each tubular structure thereby forming a void space between the bag and the tubular structure. The void space is substantially filled with a solid flowable particulate silicone rubber that contacts the prepreg and the tube is sealed to edge of hole in the tool. The solid flowable rubber is caused to transfer a substantially uniform predetermined pressure to the surface of the prepreg by pressurizing the expandable bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1986
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1987
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Richard T. Reavely, Peter C. Ogle, Robert V. Kromrey
  • Patent number: 4702870
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for producing three-dimensional structural members having one flat side from wood fibers utilizing flow deposition of the fibers onto a support. The support includes resilient deformable mold inserts. The mold inserts are formed of silicone rubber and may be blocks of the material, or may be a membrane which can be inflated to form the mold inserts. Pressing is done with a force normal to the support, and the mold inserts create response forces at varying directions to thus shape and hold the three-dimensional finished part. Heat drying also may be used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1986
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1987
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of Agriculture
    Inventors: Vance C. Setterholm, John F. Hunt
  • Patent number: 4676086
    Abstract: A press of pressure cell type comprises a press stand with two opposing force-absorbing elements between which a space is formed. In this space there is located a plate with a recess in which an elastic diaphragm is arranged. The diaphragm forms, together with the plate, a pressure cell. Elongated side supports for the diaphragm are provided at the sides of the said space. A tray insertable into the space forms, together with the plate and the diaphragm, a closed press space. The pressure cell is connected to a pressure medium source. Each side support is formed with an elongated recess, in which there is arranged an expansible membr of elastic material. Each expansible member forms a side support for a press tool located in the tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1986
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1987
    Assignee: ASEA Aktiebolag
    Inventor: Keijo Hellgren
  • Patent number: 4632027
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed for a continuous compressing operation involving receiving pliable articles, compressing them along a single axis, and releasing them once compresssed. The apparatus and method each involve the use of a pair of disks arranged in a V-shaped configuration, with their opposing surfaces contoured to form opposing recesses which, together with a flexible barrier spanning the space between the disks, define a pocket opening toward the rims of the disks for receiving the article and retaining it during compression. The disks are rotated while maintaining the V shape, thereby causing the pocket and hence the retained article to become compressed. Once the narrowest point of the V is passed, the compressed article is released by gravitational force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1985
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1986
    Assignee: Sunsweet Growers, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert E. Gunnerson
  • Patent number: 4626183
    Abstract: Apparatus including an extruder, a die member and a vacuum device connected in series. The vacuum device includes a chamber and a device at at least the outlet thereof to air-tightly seal the chamber around the extruded mass of foamed thermoplastic resin. The air-shielding or sealing device is an annular tube which is inflatable radially inwardly having a flexible inner face which seals around the extruded mass. A durable, abrasion-resistant, flexible protective sheet can be interposed between the mass and the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1984
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1986
    Assignee: Sekisui Kaseihin Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hideharu Shirai, Yoshifumi Nakahara
  • Patent number: 4616987
    Abstract: A tool (10) for taking an impression of an area of the internal bore of a tubular member (16) or a joint between two such members comprising means for directing a casting compound between two flexible membranes (20, 22) which are then forced outwardly so that the outer membrane (22) engages the area to be inspected within a bore where the compound forms a resilient mold (cast). When the force against the membranes and mold is removed, the membranes and mold collapse allowing the mold and tool (10) to be retrieved out the bore.The tool (10) carries casting compound in two parts unmixed to the area to be inspected where a selected amount of working fluid (60) under preselected pressure from a fluid source (18) of a selected volume will open a valve (42) then force the two parts to be mixed and directed between two flexible membranes (20, 22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1985
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1986
    Assignee: Vetco Offshore Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles L. Boyers, John W. Finlayson
  • Patent number: 4588368
    Abstract: In an apparatus for producing molded articles from a pourable compound, such as an oxide-ceramic compound, for example a porcelain compound, an injection chamber is formed between an isostatic compression molding tool and an injection chamber. A suction opening is connected to the injection chamber. The pourable compound is supplied through an inlet opening. A fluidizing air inlet line is positioned in the compound inlet opening and it is movable relative to the inlet opening so that it can be placed in an open or closed position for admitting or blocking flow of the compound into the injection chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1984
    Date of Patent: May 13, 1986
    Assignees: Eugen Buhler, Hutschenreuther AG
    Inventors: Eugen Buhler, Klaus Strobel, Karl Schwarzmeier
  • Patent number: 4496299
    Abstract: A moulding tool unit for semi-isostatic compaction of a powder has a mould cavity (14) defined by an elastomeric jacket (121). The jacket (121) is surrounded with clearance by an elastomeric sleeve (122) which is sealingly joined to the jacket (121). The space (123) between the sleeve (122) and jacket (121 ) is filled with an isostatic pressure translating medium such as a hydraulic liquid (127). The jacket (121) may be supported in a direction towards the sleeve (122) by a stiff jacket (125) having perforations (126) through which the hydraulic liquid (127) can flow. The unit is adapted such that for a pressing operation it can be inserted with a small clearance and pressurized in the dry pressing chamber of a hydraulic press.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1983
    Date of Patent: January 29, 1985
    Assignee: KB Cold Isostatic Press Systems CIPS
    Inventor: Ola Pettersson
  • Patent number: 4477399
    Abstract: A method for insulating a water heater with foamed insulation comprises inflating a tube in the cavity between the shell and the tank to define a boundary for the cavity into which the insulating material is injected. The device is deflated after the foamed insulation has set in the cavity. Apparatus for carrying out such method is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1982
    Date of Patent: October 16, 1984
    Assignee: GSW Inc.
    Inventor: Robert W. Tilton
  • Patent number: 4352647
    Abstract: A tire press bag well is insulated with at least one envelope. The envelope extends substantially around the bag well within the bag well housing and can be inflated. The envelope, in addition to its insulating properties, can have insulation thereon and the ends of the envelope can be fastened to itself. The configuration of the envelope, once installed, desirably conforms to the shape of the bag well housing. Since heat is applied to a tire press via the bag well, insulation thereof considerably reduces heat loss as well as reduces cure time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1980
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1982
    Inventor: Harold S. Rocco
  • Patent number: 4330247
    Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus for forming moulded articles such as removable insoles for shoes. A blank is placed between a rigid plate corresponding to the peripheral base contour of the finished article on one side thereof and a mould bed corresponding to the shape of the article on the other side thereof. Peripheral areas of the blank are exposed by the plate and a flexible diaphragm is applied over the plate under pressure or with the aid of a vacuum after heating the blank to the softening point, to define said peripheral base contour, and to conform the other side and the exposed areas of the blank to the shape of the mould bed. In the case of shoe insoles, a range of sizes can be made with the same mould bed, using only different sizes of plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1980
    Date of Patent: May 18, 1982
    Inventor: Serge L. Folschweiler
  • Patent number: 4330250
    Abstract: A press diaphragm for pressing china plates etc. has an edge part designed to be forced inwards on pressing and then to be moved back outwards on letting off the pressure clear of the plate edge. To this end the diaphragm has an edge part, acted upon by a downwardly moving keeper, and has a groove in its upper face. Under the groove the diaphragm is acted upon by hydraulic pressure more than at other positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1980
    Date of Patent: May 18, 1982
    Assignee: Dorst-Keramikmaschinen-Bau
    Inventor: Peter Pinkas
  • Patent number: 4280804
    Abstract: A vacuum tool for a vacuum bagging curing operation comprising a base on which is placed a one piece vacuum bag comprising a top sheet with a peripheral sealing means attached thereto which cooperate to seal the bag in a zipper-like fashion, thus enclosing workpiece therein for the vacuum curing operation. A vacuum manifold is attached to the base to connect the tool to a vacuum pump to create a vacuum between the base and bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1979
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1981
    Assignee: General Dynamics
    Inventor: Charles L. Holland
  • Patent number: 4227673
    Abstract: A gasket for a lens casting cell designed to accommodate for casting material shrinkage during curing in the cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 1979
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1980
    Assignee: American Optical Corporation
    Inventors: Bertram R. Goodwin, Bradford Canterbury
  • Patent number: 4212621
    Abstract: A molding system for large-scale containers using closely-spaced bladders, one inside the other, to contain a resinous material that will harden to form a rigid container. The bladders float in a liquid of the same specific gravity as that of the resinous material, and the inner bladder is filled with a liquid of the same specific gravity. The inner bladder may be filled first to establish the size or volume of the container, and then the resinous material may be filled between the inner and outer bladder layers whereat it will harden to form the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1979
    Date of Patent: July 15, 1980
    Inventor: Paul E. Michelotti
  • Patent number: 4184822
    Abstract: The apparatus utilizes a mandrel in a substantially ring or cylindrical shape about which is disposed inwardly pressure supplying means, an annular cavity disposed between the mandrel and pressure means, and means for supplying heat to the mandrel to initiate its thermal growth during curing of the belting. The metal of the mandrel has a high coefficient of thermal expansion which during use applies radial outward pressure against the belt body being cured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1977
    Date of Patent: January 22, 1980
    Assignee: The Gates Rubber Company
    Inventor: Nile L. Schwabauer
  • Patent number: 4157887
    Abstract: A press tool for production of moulded ceramic articles from powder material includes a lower tool part adapted to be supported on a press table and carrying a lower die. A matrix shell encircles the lower die and is mounted to move up and down relatively to it. An upper tool part is adapted to be connected to the plunger of the press and carries an upper die which on lowering of the plunger of the press projects into the matrix shell. To fill the powder material into the cavity defined by the lower die and the matrix shell, an annular hopper in the form of an funnel encircles the upper die and is mounted to slide axially thereon. The hopper has an annular outlet facing radially inwards and opening into the cavity when the hopper is in its lower position with respect to the upper die but closed by the upper die when the hopper is in a raised position relatively to the upper die.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1978
    Date of Patent: June 12, 1979
    Assignee: Gebruder Netzsch, Maschinenfabrik GmbH & Co.
    Inventor: Gunther Sothje
  • Patent number: 4148597
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for molding structural parts from fiber reinforced plastic composite. The apparatus is comprised of a rigid container, one or more pads of silicone rubber housed inside the container to exert pressure on the part, and one or more expandable diaphragms housed inside the container to control the pressure exerted on the part by the pads. The method used to mold a complex-shaped part from fiber reinforced plastic composite material is to lay up the part on the pads and place the pads, together with the part, between the diaphragms which are housed in the container. The container is then closed and placed in a temperature control chamber and the diaphragms connected to an external pressure control system, after which the part is cured by increasing the temperature of the chamber to the curing temperature of the part, while at the same time controlling the pressure exerted on the part by controlling the pressure in the diaphragms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1977
    Date of Patent: April 10, 1979
    Assignee: Northrop Corporation
    Inventor: George E. Larsen
  • Patent number: 4128375
    Abstract: The rigid top pressing punch of a press for producing plates or the like is haped in accordance with the inner shape of the plate or the like to be produced. An elastic membrane, which establishes the top boundary, i.e., closes the cavity of a mold, is held at its edge shaped to the dimensions of the eventual plate, and is provided with an annular groove corresponding to the foot of the plate. Pulverulent porcelain composition is distributed on the membrane in the area determined by the edge having the holding action structure. The cavity defined by the membrane is filled with a pressure medium. After lowering the pressing punch, pressure can be applied through the pressure medium to the pulverulent porcelain composition distributed on the membrane in a pressing position. The elastic membrane in its relaxed position corresponds to the shape of the lower surface of the plate or the like, is made with an even, minimum thickness over substantially its whole area and has sufficient inherent strength.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1977
    Date of Patent: December 5, 1978
    Assignee: Dorst-Keramikmaschinen-Bau Otto Dorst u. Dipl.-Ing. Walter Schlegel
    Inventor: Rolf E. R. Schubart
  • Patent number: 4105388
    Abstract: A press for molding large sheets around a forming surface which includes an elastic press pad, a first frame member on the side of the press pad away from the working surface thereof, the first frame member having a top wall and side walls forming a pressure cell area therebetween, an elastic diaphragm in the pressure cell area in contact with the press pad, a second frame member formed in a generally L-shaped configuration to encompass and hold an annular bead of the elastic diaphragm, a trough-shaped supporting member positioned adjacent the end walls of the first frame member and the press pad such that a gap is formed between the end walls and the supporting member, a movable seal strip positioned in the gap to prevent the press pad from being pressed out of the pressure cell area when the elastic diaphragm is expanded, and a supporting strip attached to the end walls of the first frame member at a point within the pressure cell area to secure the press pad within the pressure cell area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1976
    Date of Patent: August 8, 1978
    Assignee: Asea Aktiebolag
    Inventor: Keijo Hellgren
  • Patent number: 4046499
    Abstract: A method for avoiding cracking of the molded body during the decompression step in an isostatic pressing method of molding. The powders to be molded are housed in a shaping rubber mold, are molded under pressure, and the improvement is characterized by supplying forcibly gas between the outer peripheral surface of a molded body or a shaping thin rubber bag where the molded body is housed and the inner peripheral surface of the shaping rubber mold, the gas having a pressure higher than the isostatic pressure applied to the shaping rubber mold at the time when the shaping rubber mold begins to restore to its original state during the decompression step of the method. An apparatus for the said compression molding which is equipped with a specially designed pressure gas inletting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1976
    Date of Patent: September 6, 1977
    Assignee: Shinagawa Firebrick Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shinroku Saito
  • Patent number: 4043730
    Abstract: An improved hydraulic press, comprising a base frame with an horizontal bed, to which two stationary heads, termed "fore head" and "rear head", respectively, are firmly secured, said heads being connected with one another by at least two cylindrical, parallel columns, whereon a movable positioning and pre-compression crosshead, operated by hydraulic jacks, is slidingly fitted, whereby to act on a movable punch, located opposite to a stationary die, acting both punch and die, on the recess of a bottom mold; being the pressure on the movable punch, working on the recess of the bottom mold, being exerted through a pad made of an elastically flexible material, interposed between said crosshead and said fore head, it being possible to have said pad filled with a pressurized liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1976
    Date of Patent: August 23, 1977
    Inventor: Luigi Bettonica
  • Patent number: 4017572
    Abstract: An improved molding apparatus is described for use with relatively light weight molds, particularly molds for articles having a plurality of voids therein. A light weight two-piece mold, one-half being substantially rigid and the other relatively flexible, is disposed in a jig. The two halves of the mold are held in sealing relationship by inserting a hollow inflatable bag between the exterior of the relatively flexible mold piece and the interior wall of the adjacent jig member and inflating said bag to a pressure superior to that exerted by the expanding foam mix in the mold.The use of the improved apparatus obviates the need for molds of high structural strength (and hence excessive weight) and gives molded articles, particularly those of complex configuration, which are free from flashing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1975
    Date of Patent: April 12, 1977
    Assignee: The Upjohn Company
    Inventors: Raymond L. Magone, Samir N. Saaty
  • Patent number: 3969051
    Abstract: The vulcanizing apparatus of the present invention can be used for vulcanizing spliced sections of rubber belting, sheeting or the like. The apparatus includes an upper platen assembly and a lower platen assembly. The upper platen assembly includes an upper frame member and a sheet-like platen member having a relatively rigid platen surface. The platen member is affixed to an upper frame member. A heat exchanger, a heating pad and a layer of insulation are sandwiched between the sheet-like platen member and the upper frame member. The lower platen assembly includes a lower frame member and a sheet-like platen member having a relatively rigid platen surface, below which are interposed in sandwiched relationship a heat exchanger, a heating pad, and a layer of insulation. The layer of insulation rests upon a flexible diaphragm that has a flexible surface substantially co-extensive with the lower platen surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1975
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1976
    Assignee: D.G. Rung Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Harry Hovila
  • Patent number: 3964846
    Abstract: An apparatus for making transmission belts by assembling a belt sleeve or belt body in the conventional manner and placing them in a vulcanizing chamber. The belt body or sleeve is sandwiched between radially expansible and radially contractable members of the vulanizing chamber. Outward radial pressure is first applied to the belt body or sleeve and then a radial inward pressure is applied. Heat is simultaneously added to cure the body or sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1973
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1976
    Assignee: The Gates Rubber Company
    Inventor: Robert H. Bliss