Abstract: A container having a mixture of one part of a two-part epoxy adhesive with a plurality of glass beads pre-mixed therein. The concentration of beads in the final mixture as applied to the joint to be bonded is in the range of about 5% to about 20% by weight, with the beads having a diameter in the range of 0.003 to about 0.030 inches. The mixture is capable of being pumped from the container and applied to a member for forming a hem flange joint with another member. The adhesive/glass beads mixture finds particular utility to help prevent excess squeeze out and promote reliable bonds in processes in which an inner and outer panel of an exterior automotive closure member are joined together by way of a hem flange.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for binding the fibers of a fiber reinforced plastic preform. A fiber reinforced plastic preform is created in a preselected geometry from a mixture of reinforcing fibers and binding fibers, the binding fibers being responsive to a high frequency electromagnetic field to melt thereby binding the reinforcing fibers. The fiber reinforced plastic preform is then exposed for a short period of time to a high frequency electromagnetic field, with the high frequency electromagnetic field causing the binding fibers to melt thus binding the reinforcing fibers of the preform.

Abstract: A pair of laterally positioned struts are interconnected by a plurality of rungs, each rung being formed of a pair of pivotally mounted rung sections. A central rod extends between the inner ends of the rung sections of each rung, the central rod being rigid with a fastener member beneath each pair of rung sections. The inner ends of each pair of rung sections are individually pivoted to a fastener member. A pair of diverging stabilizing rods are centrally joined to a joinder member slidably on the central rod and positionable in direct underlying and supporting engagement with the fastener member of the lowermost rung in the open position of the ladder.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for binding the fibers of a fiber reinforced plastic preform. A fiber reinforced plastic preform is created in a preselected geometry from a mixture of reinforcing fibers and binding material. The fiber reinforced plastic preform is sequentially exposed to high temperature steam and cool air causing the binding material first to melt and, thereafter, to solidify thus binding and locking the reinforcing fibers of the preform in place. The fiber reinforced plastic preform is ejected from the apparatus by air pressure and is retrieved by any suitable method.

Abstract: Improved combination lid and handle assembly for a picnic cooler having hinged, double-door lid sections, each of which cooperatingly engage a handle assembly in the raised position to support the inner surface of the lid sections in a horizontal position. This provides a table surface for the users. The handle sections have cooler side wall stops and recesses in the lid to retain the lid in the proper position preventing disengagement and spilling of objects placed on the inner table surfaces of the lid. The lid may also have recessed portions on the inner surface to receivingly retain glasses or other objects.