Abstract: The present invention includes an article of manufacture with a layer with a plurality of corrugations to form an energy absorbing structure, where each corrugation has a floor and two walls connecting the floor to the base layer and the length of each corrugation is longer than the widest width of the corrugation. The present invention also includes an energy absorbing structure with a multi-layer energy absorber having a layer with a plurality of surface features and a second layer with a second plurality of surface features wherein the surface features of one layer are nested within the surface features of the other layer such that the base layers are adjacent to each other. The present invention also includes a single step method of manufacturing the energy absorbers including forming a two layer material in a single step. Further, the present invention includes a method of absorbing impact energy that involves generating heat through friction between surface features on a pair of base layers.

Abstract: The present invention provides an automotive vehicle seating comfort system, and method of forming thereof, for providing heating, cooling, ventilation or a combination thereof to an individual in an automotive car seat. In one configuration, the system includes an insert, a blower and a tubular structure for providing fluid communication between the insert and blower for providing ventilation and/or cooling for the individual. Additionally, in one preferred configuration, the insert includes a heater or heater layer for providing heat for the individual.

Abstract: There is disclosed a reinforcement member with a carrier member and a reinforcement material disposed on the carrier member.

Abstract: There is described a member for baffling, reinforcement or sealing. Typically, the member includes an internal portion and external portion wherein at least one, but typically both the internal and external portions include an activatable (e.g., expandable) material.

Abstract: There is disclosed a method and assembly for locating a material adjacent or with a structure of an article of manufacture such as an automotive vehicle. The assembly typically includes a first compartment, a second compartment and a mixing initiator.

Abstract: Parts are provided which combine structural reinforcement of hollow profiles and light weight means of attachment. Optionally, the part may also provide an acoustic baffle. The parts consists of a core coated with expandable structural reinforcing foam on at least part of its surface the core being provided with means for receipt of a nut and means to prevent rotation of the nut. Optionally, a piece of a second expandable material is provided on at least one extremity which can expand to fill the entire cross section of the hollow profile. In a preferred embodiment, the hollow profile is the A, B or C pillar of a vehicle and the nut is used for attaching doors.

Abstract: There is disclosed an insert suitable for use within a seating system of an automotive vehicle.

Abstract: There is disclosed a process for applying a material to a member having an adhesion surface. Typically, the process includes applying the material to a mold, the member or both. Thereafter, the material is at least partially conformed to the shape of the mold.

Abstract: In the overmoulding of an article channels are provided in the surface of the article to guide the flow of the overmoulding material, in addition holes may be provided across the article to enable flow of the overmoulding material to the side of the carrier remote from the point of injection. The techniques are particular useful in the overmoulding of articles having a lattice or honeycomb structure particularly when produced by injection moulding. When the overmoulding material is foamable the overmoulded articles may be used as acoustic baffles or structural reinforcement for automobiles.

Abstract: There is disclosed a temperature conditioned assembly for use in a component (e.g., a seat or steering wheel) of a transportation vehicle (e.g., an automotive vehicle, a plane, a train or the like). The assembly typically includes one or more conditions such as a heater and/or a ventilation or cooling system. A controller and a temperature sensor are also included in the assembly. Preferably, the controller is programmed to effect an energy output sequence that is based upon the ambient temperature sensed by the temperature sensor.

Abstract: Improved custom cosmetic formulation dispensing system including ingredients reservoirs for syringe dispensing. The ingredients reservoirs are carried by a translatable carrier to bring the respective reservoirs into dispensing alignment with a package, into which a preselected amount of the ingredient is dispensed.

Abstract: An air conditioned seat with a padded seat surface (4) and a padded backrest (8) and with a fan (16) arranged beneath the seat surface (4). The fan (16) is connected to an air distribution apparatus (20, 22) in the seat, and includes a flow region (31) that is open to the environment. The flow region (31) is located substantially on the side of the fan (16) facing the seat surface (4). The fan inlet (30) is further environmentally protected by a diffuser (36) located in the flow region (31) and forming a slit opening (40) between a top edge (38) of the diffuser (36) and an underside (28) of the seat.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods, materials, and products for forming a foamed product, comprising the steps of combining an epoxy-based component with an amine-based component. The epoxy component is cross-linked through a polymerization reaction catalyzed by the amine formulation. In this regard, an reactive mixture or exothermic reaction is created between the epoxy component and the amine component when combined. The heat generated by the exothermic reaction softens a thermoplastic shell of a blowing agent formulated within the epoxy component thereby enabling a solvent core within the thermoplastic shell of the blowing agent to expand from the heat generated by the exothermic or reactive mixture.

Abstract: There is disclosed a system and method of employing a porous container for sealing, baffling, reinforcing or a combination thereof. According to the method, a porous container having one or more openings is provided. An expandable material is associated with the container and is preferably placed within the container. Thereafter, the expandable material is expanded to contact and adhere to a structure of an article of manufacture (e.g., an automotive vehicle).

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are disclosed for applying melt flowable materials to components of articles of manufacture. The methods and apparatuses disclosed herein are concerned with formation of appropriate flowable materials, control over the manner in which the flowable materials are applied, treatment of the components prior to application of the flowable materials and the like. Moreover, the apparatuses and methods may be particularly suited for applying flowable materials to surfaces and components found in automotive, aerospace, and marine vehicles.