Abstract: In a novel method of manufacturing articles, primarily scrap plastic materials are collected and then melted. The melted scrap plastic materials are then formed into a semi-molten object which is placed between the male and female portions of a die set. The die set is then closed under a predetermined pressure and for a predetermined time to force the semi-molten object into the shape of the article to be manufactured. While the die set is closed under pressure, the article therein is cooled to effect stabilization, following which the die set is opened to allow removal of the article. Articles formed in accordance with the invention are inexpensive and exhibit good structural characteristics and finish.

Abstract: An awning roller bar or lead bar is formed from a relatively thin material for attachment to the leading edge of an awning. In one embodiment, the roller bar includes at least one slideway having an exterior aperture for receiving and securing the edge of a canopy to the tubing. In another embodiment the roller bar has a plurality of planar walls, a pair of interlocking folds and a substantially triangular slideway. If desired, more than one slideway can be formed in the tubing to provide for the attachment of a screen, valance, sunshade or the like. For reinforcement, an expandable material is injected into at least a portion of the tubing core. The expansion and subsequent stabilization of the foamed material strengthens the tubing to provide a roller bar of rigid construction and light weight.

Abstract: A retractable awning adapted to be mounted on a supporting surface and being movable between an extended position away from the supporting surface and a retracted position adjacent to the supporting surface includes a roll bar about which an awning sheet is selectively windable with the roll bar being rotatably disposed within an elongated tubular case. The case has an elongated bead projecting away therefrom adapted to be releasably retained in a mating groove provided in a mounting rail which is securable to the supporting surface. The case carrying the roll bar for the awning is, therefore, connected to the supporting surface by a tongue-in-groove connection. An auxiliary case is suspended from the main case and is adapted to releasably retain brace members which serve to retain the outer edge of the awning sheet in a position extended away from the supporting surface when the awning is in use.

Abstract: A retractable awning adapted to be mounted on a supporting surface and being movable between an extended position away from the supporting surface and a retracted position adjacent to the supporting surface includes a roll bar about which an awing sheet is selectively windable with the roll bar being rotatably disposed within an elongated tubular case. The case has an elongated bead projecting away therefrom adapted to be releasably retained in a mating groove provided in a mounting rail which is securable to the supporting surface. The case carrying the roll bar for the awning is, therefore, connected to the supporting surface by a tongue-in-groove connection. An auxiliary case is suspended from the main case and is adapted to releasably retain brace members which serve to retain the outer edge of the awning sheet in a position extended away from the supporting surface when the awning is in use.