Abstract: A traction mat system and a method of manufacturing comprising a mat having a grip layer adhered to or mate integral to the surface of the mat. The grip layer can be a textured material foil sheet combined to a top surface and/or a bottom surface of the mat system. The texture of the grip layer is retained when the mat is contoured with a raised pattern to give the entire surface of the mat a texture to improve traction and grip. A method of manufacturing comprises a traction mat system wherein the traction mat can comprise of manufacturing step for placing a grip layer on the mat surfaces, for placing the foil sheet and/or aggregate on the mat. Each operation can be performed for both surfaces simultaneously or can be its own operation such as one surface at a time, or both surfaces at once.

Abstract: A sheet die apparatus includes an extruder with an auger configured to provide a molten composite material. A sheet die has an opening to receive the auger, and a chamber therein to receive the molten composite material so as to form a sheet.

Abstract: A molding apparatus includes an extruder to provide a molten composite material, and an adjustable extension barrel coupled to the extruder to receive the molten composite material. The adjustable extension barrel has a drop point to output the molten composite material. The adjustable extension barrel is moveable in a first direction between an extended position and a retracted position to change position of the drop point. A structure is movable in a second direction that is perpendicular to the first direction. A lower mold is carried by the structure and is positioned to receive the molten composite material from the drop point of the adjustable extension barrel. A press includes an upper mold and is operated to press the upper mold against the lower mold to form a molded article.

Abstract: A system and method for forming an article from thermoplastic material and fiber. The method includes heating thermoplastic material to form a molten thermoplastic material for blending with the fiber. The molten thermoplastic material is blended with the fibers to form a molten composite material having a concentration of fiber by weight. The molten composite material may then be extruded through dynamic dies to deliver discrete controlled material that is gravitated onto a lower portion of a mold. The lower portion of the mold may be moved in space and time while receiving the flow of composite material to deposit a predetermined quantity of molten composite material thereon conforming to mold cavities of the lower and an upper portion of the mold. The upper portion of the mold may be pressed against the predetermined quantity of molten composite material and closing on the lower portion of the mold to form the article.