Abstract: The present invention concerns an automotive protective mat (1), also known as throw in mat or protective mat. This mat comprises a microporous stiffening layer (2) (acoustical membrane). This layer may be composed of several sheets. The overall air flow resistance is between 500 Ns/m3–4000 Ns/m3. It is essential for this mat (1) that it is hydrophobic. In order to achieve an enhanced acoustical effectiveness a decoupling layer (6) is foreseen between the microporous stiffening layer (2) and the vehicle floor (8). This decoupling layer might be incorporated in the mat (1) or constituted by the underlaying carpet or sound absorber of the vehicle floor. Further layers or sheets such as adhesive layers, non skid layers, face fabrics or carpets and/or loft layers can be added to the claimed mat.

Abstract: The present invention provides a sound insulating structure cover panel that compliments the sound attenuation material. The method of manufacturing the panel comprises the steps of providing a laminated blank having an interior face which will be observable from the passenger compartment. The side opposite the interior face of the blank has a generally non-permeable polymeric layer adjacent to a primary backing and a secondary backing layer overlying the polymeric layer. In the preferred process, the previously described blank is elevated to a desired temperature and positioned in a closed forming mold such that the perimeter of the blank is retained in a fixed position. The forming mold is closed with a controlled pressure that is sufficient to expand the blank, conform it to the mold and render a panel having a desired permeable.

Abstract: The present invention provides a sound insulating structure cover panel that compliments the sound attenuation material. The method of manufacturing the panel includes the steps of providing a laminated blank having an interior face which will be observable from the passenger compartment. The side opposite the interior face of the blank has a generally non-permeable polymeric layer adjacent to a primary backing and a secondary backing layer overlying the polymeric layer. In the preferred process, the previously described blank is elevated to a desired temperature and positioned in a closed forming mold such that the perimeter of the blank is retained in a fixed position. The forming mold is closed with a controlled pressure that is sufficient to expand the blank, conform it to the mold and render a panel having a desired permeability.

Abstract: The present invention provides a sound insulating structure cover panel that compliments the sound attenuation material. The method of manufacturing the panel comprises the steps of providing a laminated blank having an interior face which will be observable from the passenger compartment. The side opposite the interior face of the blank has a generally non-permeable polymeric layer adjacent to a primary backing and a secondary backing layer overlying the polymeric layer. In the preferred process, the previously described blank is elevated to a desired temperature and positioned in a closed forming mold such that the perimeter of the blank is retained in a fixed position. The forming mold is closed with a controlled pressure that is sufficient to expand the blank, conform it to the mold and render a panel having a desired permeable.