Abstract: In one embodiment, this disclosure describes a method for removing flashing from an article. The method includes the steps of configuring a deflashing apparatus in a loading condition; loading the article into a nesting portion of a first nesting plate of the deflashing apparatus; engaging an actuating mechanism to actuate a drive assembly of the deflashing apparatus; continuing to engage the actuating mechanism to facilitate movement of a press plate of the deflashing apparatus toward the first nesting plate; releasing the actuating mechanism to retract the press plate, and returning the press plate to the loading condition. During this method, the press plate compresses against the first nesting plate such that flashing of the article is separated from the article. The deflashing apparatus can include interchangeable nesting plate to fit various articles.

Abstract: A ported tubular air duct and a method for manufacturing a side-ported tubular air duct. The air duct has a side port located substantially ninety degrees (90.degree.) to the part line of a mold in which the air duct is manufactured. The mold has two portions which are separated when the mold is opened to permit the positioning a preheated polypropylene tubular port insert member into an opening in one of the mold portions. A parison of rubber modified polypropylene is injected into the mold between the portions at approximately 410.degree. F., and the mold is closed to seal the ends of the parison. The interior of the parison is pressurized to a level in the range of approximately 90 to 100 psi to force the parison outward against the inner sides of the mold cavity and against one end of the port member. At this juncture, the parison has a thickness in the range of 0.060 to 0.090 inches.

Abstract: A clean air duct (300) comprises a pair of tubular bodies (302, 310), each tubular body having a pair of opposed ends (304, 306, 312, 314), one of the opposed ends of one tubular body having an annular ring (346) which terminates at an inwardly extending lip (340), the other tubular body having an outwardly extending rib (322) at one end; and a cuff (320) connecting the outwardly extending rib and the inwardly extending lip. Another clean air duct (400) comprises a first blow molded tubular body (406) having a first open end (408) and an annular ring (450) which terminates at an inwardly extending lip (444), and a second blow molded tubular body (402) which has an open end (404). A cuff (412) connects the blow molded tubular bodies to one another wherein the lip (444) exerts a compressive sealing force around the second tubular body (402). Both tubular bodies (402, 406) extend from the cuff (412) in the same direction.

Abstract: A multi-functional kiosk embodying the concepts of the present invention utilizes a polygonal base member and a plurality of frame members. First interlocking means releasably secure the frame members to the polygonal base member, and second interlocking means releasably secure the frame members to each other. A hollow, central cavity is defined by the connection of the frame members to the polygonal base as well as to each other. A refreshment dispenser is capable of being supported within the hollow, central cavity of the kiosk, and a trash receptacle is also capable of being supported within the hollow, central cavity. An aperture penetrates at least one of the frame members to provide access to the refreshment dispenser and the trash receptacle. Panel portions are provided on the exterior of selected frame members to present advertising displays, and a roof member is releasably secured to the connected frame members.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a clean air duct (150) includes the steps of providing at least two tubular bodies (152, 156) having at least one open end (153, 157), each said open end having an annular ring (168, 168a) which terminates at an inwardly extending lip (166, 166a); closing an injection mold (210) around each annular ring; injecting a polymeric material into the injection mold to form a cuff (160) around the annular rings, thereby connecting the tubular bodies to form an air duct; opening the injection mold and, removing the air duct from the injection mold. Clean air ducts (10) for interconnecting an air filter to a throttle body comprise a blow molded tubular body (12) with at least one open end (14,16), the open end having an annular ring (72) which terminates at an inwardly extending lip (86) and, connecting means (30) molded around and secured to the annular ring, and the lip.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for manufacturing a tubular body member for use as a clean air duct (10) including the steps of providing a blow mold (50) with at least one embedded knife (54), forming a tubular body (12) with an apex (78) where the embedded knife is located; removing the tubular body from the blow mold, and cutting the tubular body at the apex so as to form an open end (14,16). Another method for manufacturing a clean air duct includes the steps of providing a tubular body (12) having at least one open end, inserting the open end onto a mandrel (90), closing an injection mold (110) around the tubular body and the mandrel, and injecting a polymeric material into the mold, to secure a connecting means (30) to the tubular body so as to form the air duct. The method concludes by opening the injection mold and removing the air duct from the injection mold.