Abstract: A method of using TTIr welding to weld together two high transmissivity plastic parts includes providing one or both parts with a modified surface that increases that plastic part's absorbtivity to laser light. The two parts are then laser welded by directing a beam of infrared laser light to the parts which are oriented so that the beam of infrared laser light first passes through one of the parts, impinges the modified surface (or surfaces) at a weld interface where the two plastic parts abut each other to melt the plastic parts at the weld interface, and then passes through the other plastic part.

Abstract: A self-adjusting, dynamic floating fixture for ultrasonic welding having a base, a nest assembly for supporting a part to be welded, and a plurality of bearing assemblies operably disposed between the base and the nest assembly to permit the nest assembly to move relative to the base to minimize marking and flash damage to the part to be welded.

Abstract: A self-adjusting, dynamic floating fixture for ultrasonic welding having a base, a nest assembly for supporting a part to be welded, and a plurality of bearing assemblies operably disposed between the base and the nest assembly to permit the nest assembly to move relative to the base to minimize marking and flash damage to the part to be welded.

Abstract: An inner sole with a cushioning layer of polyurethane foam, with compression set less than 10%, laminated to a thinner layer of thermoformable polyethylene foam, which serves primarily as a vehicle for shaping the polyurethane.