Abstract: A panel configuration and manufacturing technique are disclosed. The panel simulates a number of shingles each having a hollow end portion. Several of these panels may be utilized to provide an exterior building covering. When installed, hollow end portions of adjacent panels overlap to provide a leak resistant, realistic appearing covering. A number of panels may be formed by positioning each of a number of regions of a web of polymeric resin between a mold and a plug. Each of the regions is molded while in a ductile state to form a corresponding one of the multi-shingle panels. An undercut portion is formed in each of the regions during molding to define an end portion of the panel. This formation includes moving the plug relative to the mold. The sheet is cut after molding to separate the panels from the web.

Abstract: A retractable mold protrusion assembly for thermoforming parts is disclosed which is both self-contained and self-operating. The assembly includes a housing, a protrusion molding member moveably mounted to the housing, and an offset mounted spring. The protrusion molding member is movable with respect to the housing between a locked configuration and a pivoting configuration. When in its locked configuration, the protrusion molding member is securely held in a protruding position in which it protrudes away from the housing. In this position, a piece may be molded about the protrusion molding member to form a desired protrusion in the piece being formed. After molding has been completed, the removal of the molded piece slides the protrusion molding member into a second pivoting configuration, in which the protrusion molding member is pivotable into the housing to allow the molded piece to be completely removed.