Including Stitching And Discrete Fastener(s), Coating Or Bond Patents (Class 428/102)
  • Patent number: 9238879
    Abstract: Provided is a method of fabricating a thermal conductive polymer, including: a) fabricating a gel filament by primarily elongating a solution filament formed by spinning a mixed solution containing an ultra high molecular weight polyolefin (UHMWPO) resin and a first solvent, followed by cooling; b) secondarily elongating the gel filament; c) fabricating a dry filament by removing the solvent from the gel filament, followed by tertiary elongation; and d) converting the dry filament into the gel filament by adding the first solvent to the dry filament; e) removing the first solvent from the converted gel filament; and f) quaternarily elongating the gel filament from which the first solvent is removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2016
    Assignee: SK INNOVATION CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yongrak Moon, Kangmin Jung
  • Patent number: 9200570
    Abstract: A turbofan gas turbine engine comprises a nacelle cowl and a core engine. A bypass duct is between an outer surface of a casing of the core engine, and an inner surface of the nacelle cowl. An air channel is in the nacelle cowl, an inlet and an outlet of the air channel being in an outer surface of the nacelle cowl. An oil cooler has at least one oil passage for oil circulation, the air cooler having a first heat exchange surface in the air channel exposed to air circulating in the air channel, the air channel having a second heat exchange surface in the bypass duct exposed to air circulating in the bypass duct. A method for cooling oil in a turbofan gas turbine engine is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2015
    Assignee: PRATT & WHITNEY CANADA CORP.
    Inventor: Daniel T. Alecu
  • Patent number: 9040138
    Abstract: A composite article including a composite component, a metallic component and one or more interlock components. The composite component including a plurality of composite plies and extending heightwise from a component base to a component tip and lengthwise between spaced apart component first and second edges, the composite. The metallic component including a first surface and a second surface and a plurality of openings formed therein extending from the first surface to the second surface. The metallic component including at least a portion substantially or fully embedded in the composite component. The one or more interlock components is interwoven through one or more of the plurality of openings in the metallic component and extending into and at least partially embedded in the composite component to provide an interlocking system between the composite component and the metallic component. A method of fabrication of a composite article is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Shatil Sinha, Scott Roger Finn, Nicholas Joseph Kray, Peggy Lynn Baehmann, Dong Jin Shim, Gregory Carl Gemeinhardt
  • Patent number: 9040152
    Abstract: A profiled retaining section for positioning a seam connecting two decorative layers includes an upper region, a center region and a lower region forming at least one anchor. The upper region is designed as a piping, or in the manner of a piping, for protruding over a visible side of the skins to be positioned. The center region includes two sides to be sewn to the decorative layers. The anchor is designed to be introduced in a groove having a lesser width than the anchor itself and to exert a force on the groove in the lateral direction. The upper region, the center region and the anchor are integral with each other and arranged in the vertical direction relative to each other. Also described is a composite part that uses the profiled retaining section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: Faurecia Innenraum Systems GmbH
    Inventors: Frank Schäfer, Wilfrid Bergeret
  • Patent number: 9028944
    Abstract: A stitched fabric including a barrier layer configured to inhibit fluid flow and a yarn stitched through and forming stitch holes in the barrier layer. The yarn and the barrier layer are free from contact by another layer on either side of the barrier layer. As such, the stitched fabric may be employed as a wearable fabric for a garment without the need for, for example, a separate face layer and a separate interior layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: SWNR Development, LLC
    Inventors: William Thomas Woods, II, Douglas Stanley Lumb, Daniel L. English
  • Publication number: 20150125650
    Abstract: A process for the production of a textile product includes placing a flat motif template on a textile substrate, sewing the motif template onto the textile substrate in such a way that a perforation defining a desired motif in the motif template is produced, removing the part of the motif template, that is outside the motif defined by the perforation, and permanently fixing the remaining part, having the motif, of the motif template to the textile substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2015
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Inventor: Harald Kaufmann
  • Publication number: 20150125651
    Abstract: Each sheet material is formed by arraying carbon fiber lines, each having a predetermined width, in parallel with one another. Meanwhile, an array direction of the carbon fiber lines of each sheet material is set to form an angle in a range from ±30° to ±60° to a weaving advancing direction of a stitching yarn. Moreover, a stretch ratio of the stitched base material in its lengthwise direction in a case where a load per inch width of the stitched base material is applied in the weaving advancing direction of the stitching yarn is equal to or below 4% when the load is 5 N, and is equal to or above 10% when the load is 25 N.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2015
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Applicants: IHI AEROSPACE CO., LTD., IHI CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yoshinobu TSUCHIYA, Hidetoshi KASAKAWA, Masahiko MURATA, Yu SHIGENARI, Hiroyuki SATOH
  • Publication number: 20150110997
    Abstract: A domestic textile product includes a top having a waterproofing structure. The waterproofing structure has four layers, an upper three layers being, in sequence, a first cloth layer, a filling material layer, and a second cloth layer. A lower layer is a waterproofing material layer laminated with the second cloth layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2014
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Applicant: Standard Fiber LLC
    Inventor: Russ Holbrook
  • Patent number: 8986803
    Abstract: A tack labeler includes a reeling-out unit for reeling out a label formation base material pair from a base material pair roll set on a roll holder; a base material pair accumulation unit for accumulating the label formation base material pair; a separating-delivering unit for pulling out the label formation base material pair from the base material pair accumulation unit, separating the label formation base material pair into respective label formation base materials, and delivering the respective label formation base materials; cutting units for successively cutting connection portions of cut lines formed on each of the label formation base materials; adhering units for adhering the tack labels cut off from each of the label formation base materials onto containers conveyed to adherence positions; and base material collecting units for winding up and collecting each of the label formation base materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Fuji Seal International, Inc.
    Inventors: Yasushi Yoshida, Masahide Ikeda, Akihiko Fujihira
  • Patent number: 8968833
    Abstract: An antiballistic article and method of making the antiballistic article. The antiballistic article is made by applying a resin on the surface of at least one fabric layer such that the resin forms a network with a degree of cross-linking of at least 80% within no more than 350 seconds at a temperature of 130° C. at most.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Teijin Aramid GmbH
    Inventors: Hans-Joachim Gabrisch, Margarete-Anna Gabrisch
  • Patent number: 8939099
    Abstract: A composite material includes a composite body having a composite surface, and a reinforcing element extending through the composite body in a first plurality of stitches and a second plurality of stitches. The first plurality of stitches are aligned relative to the composite surface substantially similarly to each other. The second plurality of stitches are aligned relative to the composite surface substantially dissimilarly to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Dong-Jin Shim, Ian Francis Prentice, Julian O'Flynn, Ross Spoonire, Wendy Wen-Ling Lin
  • Patent number: 8877317
    Abstract: A foam filled panel with decorative thread stitching is provided. In addition, the stitching can be sealed to prevent leakage of foam when it is injected between a substrate and a skin layer to provide a foam filled panel. The decorative thread stitching can be sewn into the skin layer of the foam filled panel before the panel is assembled and filled with injectable foam. In addition, the skin can be made via slush molding, which allows various features and details to be molded into the skin. In some instances, the stitching can be sealed by adhesively attaching an impermeable membrane along a length of the stitching, thereby covering all the openings. In other instances, the stitching is sealed by using an expandable thread. Also disclosed is a process for manufacturing a foam filled panel with decorative thread stitching.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignees: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc., Toyota Motor Corporation
    Inventors: Kerry Scott Zellner, Jr., Chase Perry Nelson, Timothy A. Pittaluga, Michael Brent Hampton, Garland Wayne Brookshire, Takashi Niwa
  • Publication number: 20140322482
    Abstract: A composite article including a composite component, a metallic component and one or more interlock components. The composite component including a plurality of composite plies and extending heightwise from a component base to a component tip and lengthwise between spaced apart component first and second edges, the composite. The metallic component including a first surface and a second surface and a plurality of openings formed therein extending from the first surface to the second surface. The metallic component including at least a portion substantially or fully embedded in the composite component. The one or more interlock components is interwoven through one or more of the plurality of openings in the metallic component and extending into and at least partially embedded in the composite component to provide an interlocking system between the composite component and the metallic component. A method of fabrication of a composite article is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2013
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Shatil Sinha, Scott Roger Finn, Nicholas Joseph Kray, Peggy Lynn Baehmann, Dong Jin Shim, Gregory Carl Gemeinhardt
  • Patent number: 8869813
    Abstract: Provided are a lightweight, compact reinforcing tape capable of improving a tensile strength. A reinforcing tape for reinforcing a tensile strength of a cloth includes weft threads which constitute a weave structure of the reinforcing tape, and warp threads which constitute a weave structure of the reinforcing tape, wherein a part of the warp threads are made of a high-strength fiber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: finetrack
    Inventor: Yotaro Kanayama
  • Patent number: 8852713
    Abstract: Materials and methods are provided for producing preform materials for impact-resistant composite materials suitable for liquid molding. Interlayers formed of nonwoven, continuous fibers, such as spunbonded, spunlaced, or mesh fabric, are introduced between non-crimped layers of unidirectional reinforcing fibers to produce a preform for use in liquid-molding processes to produce a composite member. Curing of the preform provides increased impact resistance by increasing the amount of energy required to propagate localized fractures due to impact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Thomas Karl Tsotsis
  • Publication number: 20140272267
    Abstract: Ballistic resistant composite articles that are resistant to both backface deformation and ballistic penetration. Multiple composites are attached to each other such that fibers in each adjacent composite are oriented at different angles. Each composite has an areal density of at least about 100 g/m2 wherein the areal density of the strike face composite is greater than half of the total areal density of overall multi-composite article.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.
    Inventor: Honeywell International Inc.
  • Patent number: 8801880
    Abstract: The invention relates to ultrasonic gap welding of flat woven fabrics. Specifically, the invention relates to a method of ultrasonic welding the seam termination yarn ends of a fabric using a controlled gap. A mechanical stop may be employed to control the distance or gap between the horn and anvil to a predetermined level based on the depth of welding and amount of weld energy. By adding another degree of control, the ultrasonic gap welding technique of the present invention is able to achieve fabric seams that are stronger than conventional seams, and even those enhanced with gluing, and is conducive to formation of fabric seams by spot welding or along the termination yarn ends of the fabric.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Albany International Corp.
    Inventors: John J LaFond, Jennifer L Bowden, Lynn F Kroll, Joseph Botelho
  • Patent number: 8784968
    Abstract: A waterproof breathable material has a higher strength-to-weight ratio and higher tear resistance-to-weight ratio than traditional materials, and may be applied in a wide field of potential uses. A non-woven composite material comprises at least one waterproof breathable (W/B) membrane, a first unidirectional non-woven composite layer having multiple fibers enclosed by adhesive in parallel to each other, a second unidirectional non-woven composite layer having multiple fibers enclosed in adhesive in parallel to each other. The first unidirectional non-woven composite layer is positioned such that the fibers are oriented 90° relative to the fibers of the second unidirectional non-woven composite layer, and a space is formed between the first and second multiple fibers. No adhesive is present in the space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Cubic Tech Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher Michael Adams, Roland Joseph Downs, Keith Joel McDaniels
  • Patent number: 8765257
    Abstract: A heat activated applique for apparel and other textile products, and particularly those made out of stretch fabrics (typically knit or woven fabrics) comprised of synthetic or natural fiber yarns constructed with spandex fibers and yarns. The applique includes an upper stretchable fabric layer bonded to a substrate by a thermoplastic adhesive. The stretchable fabric layer is a knit or woven fabric with spandex and polyester or nylon threads, and the thermoplastic adhesive is a urethane-based thermoplastic adhesive with stretch and recovery characteristics. The applique can be layered to provide a three-dimensional characteristic, embossed or etched to provide a surface texture, and adorned with direct printing or sublimation dye. The applique may be easily heat-sealed to a garment or other textile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Inventor: Paul Weedlun
  • Patent number: 8753732
    Abstract: A flexible heat insulation product (1) comprising a flexible heat insulating core layer (4) with a first side (3) and a second side (9), and a flexible facing (2) that is connected to the first side (3) of the insulating core layer (4) by a plurality of elements (7) that extends from the facing (2) to the second side (9) of the insulating core layer (4). The insulation product (1) further comprises a flexible heat insulating cover layer (8) that is secured to the second side (9) of the insulating core layer (4). A method for producing such a product is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Rockwool International A/S
    Inventor: Kristian Skovgaard Jorgensen
  • Publication number: 20140162019
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for manufacturing a crash pad with a foaming layer formed by injecting a foaming solution between a core and a skin are disclosed. The apparatus includes a first mold and a second mold used to form the skin by injecting molten resin of a skin material into a skin forming cavity when the first and second molds are combined. In addition, a third mold and the fourth mold form the core by injecting molten resin of a core material into a core forming cavity when the third and fourth molds are combined. The first mold has a vacuum aperture in an inner surface of the first mold to adsorb and fix a thread to implement a stitch before the forming of the skin, and the vacuum aperture exerts a vacuum suctioning force to absorb and fix via a vacuum pressure applied from a vacuum pressure providing unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2013
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicants: KIA MOTORS CORPORATION, HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY
    Inventors: Byung Seok Kong, Ji Min Park
  • Patent number: 8741790
    Abstract: A PTFE/fiberglass composite for use as a conveyor belt comprises a fiberglass fabric having oppositely facing surfaces. The fabric has a structure defining a substantially uniform pattern of openings extending from one to the other of its major surfaces, with the average area of the individual openings being at least about 0.20258 mm2. PTFE films are laminated to the major surfaces of the fabric. The laminated films are interconnected by fluroropolymer ties extending through the fabric openings and are adhered to the major surfaces with a peel strength of between about 5-13 pli. The composite has a thickness of less than about 20 mils and a fiberglass content of less than about 25%.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Textiles Coated Incorporated
    Inventors: John W. Tippett, Stephen W. Tippett
  • Publication number: 20140134391
    Abstract: A stitched fabric including an interior layer, a barrier layer disposed over the interior layer, the barrier layer configured to inhibit fluid flow, a batting layer disposed over the barrier layer, the batting layer configured to provide insulation, a yarn stitched through and securing together the interior layer, the barrier layer, and the batting layer, the yarn forming stitch holes in the barrier layer, and a face layer disposed over the barrier layer, a melted portion of the barrier layer bonding the face layer and the barrier layer together and filling a portion of the stitch holes in the barrier layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2014
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: SWNR Development, LLC
    Inventors: Douglas Stanley Lumb, Daniel L. English
  • Patent number: 8715809
    Abstract: A composite has a laminar core assembly defining a bend, the bend having a radially inner surface defining a fillet. A reinforcement block adjacent to the radially inner surface of the bend has sufficient thickness to at least partly bury the fillet. The reinforcement block reduces the through-thickness tensile stress in the laminar core assembly and thereby reduces the risk of delamination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Rolls-Royce PLC
    Inventor: Eric P Ravey
  • Patent number: 8696849
    Abstract: A novel reinforcement system for maximizing tensile strength and modulus of elasticity per ply for composite systems has one or more pockets with a first pocket edge, a second pocket edge, a pocket front surface, and a pocket rear surface. The pocket front surface and the pocket rear surface each have a pocket cross-stitch that perpendicularly traverses the pocket. The pocket traverses the fabric parallel and adjacent to the first fabric edge and the second fabric edge in a warp, or 0 degree, or x-axis direction. The pockets contain one or more fiber tows with a plurality of filaments in a stack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Inventor: James J. Butler
  • Patent number: 8691366
    Abstract: A cutting tool with a substrate which is coated with a coating layer containing TiaAlbNbdMe(C1-xNx), where M represents one or more elements selected from among Si, W, Mo, Ta, Hf, Cr, Zr and Y, where 0.1?a?0.7, 0?b?0.8, 0.02?d?0.25, 0?e?25, a+b+d+e=1.0 and 0?x?1 and is provided with a rake face; a flank face; a cutting edge between the rake face and the flank face; and droplets on the surface of the coating layer. The droplets include finer droplets having particle diameters of 300 nm or less; and coarser droplets having particle diameters of 1000 nm or more. The flank face has a higher percentage of the finer droplets than the rake face. An Nb content in the coarser droplets on the flank face is higher than an Nb of the coarser droplets on the rake face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Kyocera Corporation
    Inventors: Masahiro Waki, Yaocan Zhu
  • Patent number: 8685521
    Abstract: The invention provides a stitchbonded nonwoven fabric comprising a nonwoven web, stitches of a first yarn, and stitches of a second yarn wherein the first yarn comprises polyester bicomponent fibers exhibiting latent crimp and comprising poly(ethylene terephthalate) and poly(trimethylene terephthalate). The invention further provides a process for making such stitch-bonded nonwoven fabric.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Invista North America S.àr.l.
    Inventors: Takeshi Yanagawase, Takasaburo Isshiki
  • Patent number: 8678458
    Abstract: A vehicle interior component includes a decorative covering with one or more lines of decorative stitching sewn therethrough. Together with one or more ridge features, the decorative stitching can be part of a simulated seam formed in the decorative covering. A densified portion and/or a reduced thickness portion can be formed in the decorative covering along the intended stitch path and prior to addition of the decorative stitching to help reduce the effect of the stitching on the overall appearance of the simulated seam, such as the shape of the ridge feature(s). The decorative covering can be compressed along the intended stitch path in a thermoforming process, such as an in-mold graining process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Faurecia Interior Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: William Filipp
  • Publication number: 20140079901
    Abstract: A decorative laminate pad for supporting an item of furniture including a rigid plank having a top surface, bottom surface, and peripheral edge. An ornamental sheet substantially covers the top surface of the rigid plank. The ornamental sheet has a thickness. An adhesive layer is disposed between the top surface of the rigid plank and the ornamental sheet to adhere the ornamental sheet to the rigid plank. A backing layer is adhered to the bottom surface, and a decorative thread is stitched into the decorative laminate pad. The decorative thread passes through the thickness of the ornamental sheet and does not enter the backing layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2013
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Applicant: Anji Mountain
    Inventor: Darryl S. Gold
  • Publication number: 20130323458
    Abstract: A composite element includes a base or textile layer, a thermoplastic polymer material, a thread, and a cover layer. The base layer has a first surface and an opposite second surface. The polymer material is separate from the base layer, extends into the base layer, and is at least partially located at the first surface. The thread has a section lying adjacent to the first surface layer and substantially parallel to the first surface throughout a distance of at least five centimeters, and the thread is bonded to the base layer with the polymer material. The cover layer is located adjacent to the first surface and bonded to the base layer with the polymer material, and the section of the thread is located between the cover layer and the base layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2013
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: Nike, Inc.
    Inventors: James C. Meschter, Jeffrey L. Johnson, Lia Uesato, Tina M. Casillas
  • Patent number: 8597759
    Abstract: A graphic for application to a textile is disclosed. The graphic includes a front surface configured to be viewable when the graphic is applied to the textile. The graphic further includes a back surface opposite the front surface and configured to contact the textile. The graphic further includes an attachment mechanism, other than stitching, that attaches the graphic to the textile. The graphic also includes a simulated stitching pattern “etched” onto the front surface of the graphic extending around a perimeter of the graphic and includes projections simulating stitch ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Stahl's Inc.
    Inventors: Fred Ciaramitaro, James R. Johnson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8597760
    Abstract: A stitched multi-layer fabric is provided. The fabric includes an interior layer, a barrier layer, a yarn, and a face layer. The barrier layer is disposed over the interior layer and is configured to inhibit fluid flow. The yarn is stitched through the interior layer and the barrier layer. The yarn secures the interior layer to the barrier layer and forms stitch holes in the barrier layer. The face layer is disposed over the barrier layer. A melted portion of the barrier layer bonds the face layer and the barrier layer together and fills a portion of the stitch holes in the barrier layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: SWNR Development, LLC
    Inventors: William Thomas Woods, II, Douglas Stanley Lumb, Daniel L. English
  • Publication number: 20130291270
    Abstract: A wet suit material includes a heat-reflective layer in combination with an insulative layer. In some embodiments, the heat-reflective layer is a metalized polymer film slitted to facilitate movement. In other embodiments, multiple panels of heat-reflective layer facilitate movement. In other embodiments, a reflective coating is incorporated in a stretchable liner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2012
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Inventor: Kevin D. Fialko
  • Publication number: 20130260087
    Abstract: A stitched multi-layer fabric is provided. The fabric includes an interior layer, a barrier layer, a yarn, and a face layer. The barrier layer is disposed over the interior layer and is configured to inhibit fluid flow. The yarn is stitched through the interior layer and the barrier layer. The yarn secures the interior layer to the barrier layer and forms stitch holes in the barrier layer. The face layer is disposed over the barrier layer. A melted portion of the barrier layer bonds the face layer and the barrier layer together and fills a portion of the stitch holes in the barrier layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: SWNR DEVELOPMENT, LLC
    Inventors: William Thomas Woods, II, Douglas Stanley Lumb, Daniel L. English
  • Publication number: 20130260086
    Abstract: A foam filled panel with decorative thread stitching is provided. In addition, the stitching can be sealed to prevent leakage of foam when it is injected between a substrate and a skin layer to provide a foam filled panel. The decorative thread stitching can be sewn into the skin layer of the foam filled panel before the panel is assembled and filled with injectable foam. In addition, the skin can be made via slush molding, which allows various features and details to be molded into the skin. In some instances, the stitching can be sealed by adhesively attaching an impermeable membrane along a length of the stitching, thereby covering all the openings. In other instances, the stitching is sealed by using an expandable thread. Also disclosed is a process for manufacturing a foam filled panel with decorative thread stitching.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicants: Toyota Motor Corporation, Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Kerry Scott Zellner, JR., Chase Perry Nelson, Timothy A. Pittaluga, Michael Brent Hampton, Garland Wayne Brookshire, Takashi Niwa
  • Patent number: 8530028
    Abstract: A trim panel and method of forming a trim panel for a vehicle. The trim panel can include a localized cushioned portion of softness (150) at pre-selected locations on the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventors: Nels R. Smith, Bart W. Fox, Tony M. Pokorzynski
  • Patent number: 8518518
    Abstract: A fiber structure that can be embedded in a matrix for obtaining a piece made of composite material, includes a first fiber element having a first support surface, at least one L-shaped fiber element having a base that is flattened against the support surface of the first fiber element at a junction zone and a wing that is not flattened against the first fiber element, and another fiber element having one part flattened against the wing of the at least one L-shaped fiber element. The elements are assembled by tapping fibers from a second surface of the first fiber element so as to form loops, at least certain fibers being oblique relative to the second surface, in a plane that is perpendicular to the junction zone, wherein certain loops of the oblique fibers protrude to the outside of the outer surface of a wing of at least one L-shaped fiber element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Airbus Operations SAS
    Inventors: Philippe Blot, Julien Charles, Mathieu Piana, Xavier Legrand, Joel Besnier
  • Publication number: 20130216767
    Abstract: In order to produce a part (16) from a composite material, which is conductive at least on one of the surfaces thereof, the method consists of: the conductive overstitching (30) of a preform (20) of the part using electrically or thermally conductive threads (31, 32) with substantially parallel stitch lines (34) oriented in at least two intersecting directions. The parts obtained are adapted for the production of aircraft structures that may be subjected to lightning strikes and allow return currents from the electrical or electronic aircraft equipment and/or the discharge of heat by conduction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2011
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Applicant: European Aeronautic Defense and Space Company Eads France
    Inventor: Jacques Cinquin
  • Patent number: 8496206
    Abstract: Structural panels for use in manufacturing aircraft fuselages and other structures are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a structural panel configured in accordance with the invention includes a skin and at least first and second stiffeners. The first stiffener can have a first flange portion mated to the skin and a first raised portion projecting away from the skin. The second stiffener can have a second flange portion mated to the skin and a second raised portion projecting away from the skin. At least one of the first flange portion of the first stiffener and the second flange portion of the second stiffener can extend toward the other of the first flange portion and the second flange portion to form an at least approximately continuous support surface to which a frame can be attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Kent E. Johnson, Mark A. Ulvin
  • Patent number: 8474388
    Abstract: Reinforcement of sandwich structures with aid of a reinforcing device. The outer layers of the sandwich structure may primarily include a fiber-plastic composite and the core material may include a rigid polymer foam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Evonik Roehm GmbH
    Inventor: Alexander Roth
  • Publication number: 20130149483
    Abstract: A fiber composite component assembly includes at least two plate-shaped composite structures which in each case are made from synthetic-resin embedded fibers and are integrally interconnected by way of an adhesive layer arranged in between, and additional mechanical reinforcement means, wherein the fiber composite components include several partial regions that do not contain synthetic resin, which partial regions can be brought to flush conformity with each other and which are arranged so as to be spaced apart from each other, through which partial regions the mechanical reinforcement means that can subsequently be bonded-in with synthetic resin have been passed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2012
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicant: AIRBUS OPERATIONS GMBH
    Inventor: Airbus Operations GmbH
  • Patent number: 8460690
    Abstract: A process for deterring behavior of pets which includes providing a device comprising a reflective metalized plastic sheet having a thickness of about 0.5 to 10.0 mils, having a reflective and non-reflective side and capable of making a sound when the sheet is flexed by pressure from a pet, a fibrous layer, and a decorative fabric layer, where the layers are joined together to form the device, and the reflective side of said reflective plastic layer is oriented outward, where the device is capable of being folded or rolled-up, and when placed on an object, the device deters pets from getting on said object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: PetzOff International
    Inventor: Jeremiah S. Downs
  • Publication number: 20130142988
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for making a preform (1) for a composite with a thermoplastic matrix, said preform (1) comprising one or several layers of reinforcement fibers (3) sewn on a support (2) by means of at least one attachment yarn (4)and according to the TFP process, characterized in that the method comprises one or several steps for depositing a thermoplastic-resin layer (5a,5b) on the support (2) or on a layer (3) of reinforcement fibers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2012
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Inventor: Hervé Grelin
  • Patent number: 8440291
    Abstract: A borderless emblem for securing to a first fabric by heat and/or pressure includes a fabric base, an emblem design applied to a front surface of the fabric base and a layer of thermoplastic adhesive material bonded to a rear surface of the fabric base. The first fabric has a predetermined weave pattern and a predetermined color. The fabric base has an outer peripheral edge and is constructed of the same or substantially the same fabric as the first fabric. The fabric base has a base color that is the same or substantially the same as the predetermined color. The fabric base is cut from a fabric utilizing a laser cutter which heats a portion of the fabric base proximate the outer peripheral edge. The laser cutter finishes the outer peripheral edge of the fabric base without including a stitched or other border.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Penn Emblem Company
    Inventors: Robert Wiberg, Carl Jurnovoy
  • Patent number: 8402566
    Abstract: A seam joining structure (1) includes a first material web (10) with a first barrier layer (42) and with a first edge (14) on an outer boundary of the first material web (10), a second material web (30) with a second barrier layer (42) and with a second edge (34) on an outer boundary of the second material web (30), as well as at least one seam (21) that joins the first and second material webs (10, 30) in a seam area (3) to form a first seam allowance (13) between the seam (21) and the first edge (14) of the first material web (10) and to form a second seam allowance (33) between seam (21) and the second edge (34) of the second material web (30). The first and second material webs (10, 30) are arranged one above the other in seam area (3) and the second seam allowance (33) is folded around the first edge (14) of the first material web (10) and covers the at least one seam (21) to form a seam cover (2), whereby the seam cover (2) is joined in the seam area (3) to the first material web (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc.
    Inventor: Werner Stubiger
  • Patent number: 8377539
    Abstract: A member with skin includes a substrate, and a skin. The substrate includes a body, and a core. The skin includes a first skin segment, and a second skin segment. The body and core make a rear side-face section, which is disposed beneath a rear face of the core, within a side face in the substrate. The member further includes a stitching allowance, which is disposed to face the rear side-face section in the substrate, between the first skin segment and the second skin segment. The first skin segment covers a front face of the body, and a front face of the core. The second skin segment covers a rear face of the body. The member further includes ornamental stitches that are disposed at a boundary between a part of the first skin segment covering the body and another part of the first skin segment covering the core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Naoyuki Fukui, Kimitoshi Imura, Yasuhiro Sakakibara
  • Patent number: 8354154
    Abstract: A heat-seal appliqué and method for production that provides numbers, letters, logos, graphics, and other indicia which do not change the physical and visual characteristics of the garment to which it is applied, including breathable and/or moisture-wicking characteristics. The appliqué comprises a perimeter textile having a thermally activated adhesive coating and an interior opening, and a textile inlay that fits within the interior opening of the perimeter textile. The adhesive coating on the perimeter textile is the only adhesive on the appliqué. The appliqué can be heat-sealed to any garment by the perimeter textile, leaving the inlay suspended over the garment without obstructing any performance characteristics of the garment or textile. The appliqué is particularly well-suited for lightweight, breathable and/or moisture-wicking textiles commonly used in performance sports apparel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Inventors: Patricia A. Mason, Paul Weedlun
  • Publication number: 20130004702
    Abstract: The invention relates to a composite part having a decor skin with a first and a second section, preferably each including leather, and a holding portion, wherein the first and second sections are connected to one another by a seam and a part region of the decor skin is connected to the holding portion. In accordance with the invention, the part region of the decor skin is preferably connected to the holding portion with material continuity in the region of the seam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2012
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Applicant: Faurecia Innenraum Systeme GmbH
    Inventors: Frank Schäfer, Jochen Reichhold, Thomas Penisch
  • Patent number: 8343607
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for making a trim panel. The method includes providing a preform laminate including a compressible material sandwiched between a flexible skin and a back skin. Positioning the preform laminate in the mold. Placing an insert with the preform laminate in the mold to created a step to establish a seam location and define a secondary area on the preform laminate. Compressing the compressible material by introducing a molten polymeric material to the mold forming a substrate and bonding the substrate to the preform laminate forming the trim component. The preform laminate folds onto itself and creates a crease along the step to simulate the seam and provide a contour change with the appearance of cushioning in the secondary area, and removing the trim panel component from the mold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventors: Tony M. Pokorzynski, Heather Rae Springer, Nels R. Smith, Bart W. Fox, John C. Hinken, Jeffery T. Stout, Jason M. Hipshier
  • Patent number: 8312827
    Abstract: Methods of pre-cured (wet-out) composite lay up, are improved upon by embroidering, sewing, stitching, bundle-wrapping, tying, etc., substantially between layers and substantially normal, or in the “Z-direction” to the lay up with a wet or pre-cured fiber bundle or tow. The pre-cured tow is embroidered, etc. either in with a like, homogeneous wet to wet layering or a heterogeneous non-similar layering, between double or multiple layers. Heterogeneous examples include differing material types among layers, laying and embroidering in objects or voids, as well as wet-laminating/sewing in with an already-dry (set/cured) layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Inventor: James J Free