Relieved Or Configured Pressing Face Patents (Class 156/581)
  • Publication number: 20040089407
    Abstract: A method of applying a heat fixable ink image to a moulded thermoplastic component involves applying an image to carrier sheet, applying the carrier sheet to the component to conform to the surface contours thereof and then heating the image to a temperature below that temperature at which the image will satisfactorily transfer to the component. A pressure of such magnitude and duration is then applied to the image through a pair of mating dies of complementary shape to the component as to then cause the image to tansfer to the component to become permanently fixed thereto.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2003
    Publication date: May 13, 2004
    Inventor: Stephen Joseph Halewood
  • Publication number: 20040084954
    Abstract: A method is disclosed of securing filaments to a toothbrush handle that is foldable along a longitudinal axis to acquire a functional configuration, the method includes providing a mold device for the toothbrush handle, the mold device comprising an upper member and a lower member positionable to define a mold cavity therebetween and a corresponding parting line therebetween, positioning filaments partially within the mold cavity, the filaments arranged linearly within the mold cavity in a plane that is parallel to the parting line, injecting a flowable plastic material into the mold cavity, and allowing the plastic material to cool and at least partially solidify within the mold cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventors: James S. O'Halloran, Kevin Foley
  • Publication number: 20040065414
    Abstract: A sheet-affixing device for affixing a pressure sensitive adhesive-sheet onto a wheel is provided. The sheet-affixing device comprises an absorption plate member, an alignment shaft member, and a pressing member. The absorption plate member is formed in a ring-shape. The exterior diameter of the absorption plate member is smaller than the diameter of a rim. On the bottom surface of the absorption plate member there are provided a plurality of suction perforations. The alignment shaft member is fitted into the hub so that the center of the absorption plate member and the center of the wheel are aligned. The pressing member is used for pressing a peripheral part of the pressure sensitive adhesive-sheet against the rim so that the peripheral part is affixed to the rim. Further, the pressing member is movable relative to the absorption plate member along the axial direction of the ring-shaped absorption plate member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2003
    Publication date: April 8, 2004
    Applicant: LINTEC Corporation
    Inventor: Tsuyoshi Maeda
  • Publication number: 20040060666
    Abstract: The component mounting equipment (30) mounts an FPC board (12) on an LCD board (11). The LCD board (11) has a first electrode section (11b) on one side edge and a second electrode section (11c) on another side edge. The FPC board (12) has a first section (12a) on one side edge and a second section (12b) on other side edge. A first mounting apparatus (31) mounts the first section (12a) on the first electrode section (11b). A second mounting apparatus (32) mounts the second section (12b) on the second electrode section (11c). In the second component mounting apparatus (32), the second section (12b) is separated from the second electrode section (11b) at an ACF supply section (170) and released at a pre-press bonding section (180).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Kenichi Nishino, Shinji Kanayama, Shinjiro Tsuji, Masayuki Ida, Tomotaka Nishimoto
  • Patent number: 6701993
    Abstract: A tray sealing assembly includes a seal support frame for supporting a flange of a tray during sealing of a sealing film to the flange, a seal plate having a sealing surface provided with a raised bead, and a heater for heating the seal plate. The seal support frame is movable relative to the seal plate between a retracted position and a seal position in engagement with the seal plate. Preferably, the raised bead forms a continuous closed loop on the sealing surface. The raised bead produces a reliable seal between the sealing film and the tray flange, despite the presence of contaminants on the tray flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: Harpak, Inc.
    Inventor: Vincent E. Faherty
  • Patent number: 6691759
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for making and/or decorating bowling balls and the like includes flexible transfer sheets with heat-activated ink applied to at least portions thereof. A form or mold with opposite halves, which shift between open and closed positions, includes a cavity sized to closely receive therein the article to be decorated. At least one transfer sheet is positioned in the mold with the article, such that when the mold is closed, the same are captured in the mold cavity in an overlying relationship. Heat is applied to the mold to a predetermined temperature causing the article to expand through thermal expansion, which expansion is resisted by the mold to uniformly press the transfer sheet against the underlying outer surface of the article, and also causing the heat-activated ink to transfer from the transfer sheet to the outer surface of the article to form the design thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Brunswick Bowling & Billards Corporation
    Inventors: Alfred J. Dabrowski, Jr., Daniel L. LaPres, Phillip G. Syer
  • Patent number: 6688361
    Abstract: An apparatus for heat connecting sections of polymeric tape, and provided with a thermostat-controlled welding head seated in a flat tubular member adapted to be inserted between sections of the tape and a control module for controlling the temperature of a heating coil as a function of supply voltage, the thermostat being positioned directly over the heating coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Inventor: Werner Schnabel
  • Publication number: 20030230387
    Abstract: A crimper assembly forms end seals in overlapping portions of the sheet of packaging material after being folded about an article. The crimper assembly includes a crimper including a base, an insert that is formed from a resilient material, and a support plate that is formed from a rigid material. The insert has a surface that is adapted to engage and seal overlapping layers of a packaging material. The insert is disposed between the base and the support plate. The support plate is secured to the body to retain and support the insert thereon. The insert and the support plate may be formed as separate pieces or may be secured together as a single piece. To prevent excessive compression of the insert, the insert can have an aperture formed therethrough, and the support plate can have a protrusion formed thereon that extends through the aperture into abutment with the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2003
    Publication date: December 18, 2003
    Inventors: Larry E. Smith, Louis M. Montano
  • Patent number: 6655436
    Abstract: A labeling head includes a printing unit and an applicator foot assembly for printing and applying labels onto a layup of material. The printing unit is integral to the labeling head and prints each label prior to applying the label to the layup. The applicator foot assembly transfers the printed label onto the layup. The labeling head of the present invention can be used either with a cutter, a spreader or as a standalone unit. The labeling head of the present invention prints and prepares labels while the cutter head cuts the part. Once the part is cut, the labeling head applies the prepared label onto the cut part. The labeling head also includes a layup height sensor allowing the labels to be applied to layup having varying heights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Gerber Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Jay Venditti, Robert Murphy, Stephen McCarthy, Michael T. Silva
  • Patent number: 6643925
    Abstract: An installation device for installing a flexible sensor apparatus on a seating surface of a seat cushion includes an installation fixture having a saddle. The saddle includes a first face having a seating portion recess formed therein which generally conforms to the shape of the seating surface of the seat cushion. The first face further has at least one locating recess formed in the seating portion recess. The locating recess generally conforms to the shape of a portion of the flexible sensor apparatus. The saddle further has ports extending from the locating recess to a vacuum source, wherein a vacuum from the vacuum source retains the flexible sensor apparatus in the locating recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: Raymond J. Ormachea, Don Hamilton, Paul S. Severinski, Alan A. Boisvert
  • Patent number: 6645346
    Abstract: A workpiece retainer used in, for instance, a bonding apparatus for holding a workpiece during bonding being provide with plate springs that are driven towards the workpiece. Before the workpiece is pressed by the retainer, the end portions of plate springs protrude further toward the workpiece than the retaining surface of the workpiece retainer. When the workpiece is pressed by the retainer, the plate springs undergo elastic deformation and are pulled in the direction opposite from the workpiece so that the workpiece is pressed against a heat block by the retaining surface of the workpiece retainer; and when the workpiece is conveyed, the workpiece retainer is separated from the workpiece by a predetermined distance so that the plate springs undergo elastic recovery, thus preventing the workpiece from contacting the workpiece retainer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Shinkawa
    Inventors: Tatsunari Mii, Shigeru Shiozawa, Yoshimitsu Terakado
  • Patent number: 6645345
    Abstract: In connection with wafer planarization, an apparatus for forming a layer of material having a substantially uniform thickness and substantially parallel first and second major surfaces includes a pair of pressing elements and a stop. Each of the pair of pressing elements has a flat pressing surface. The pressing surfaces are opposed to one another and operable to compress a quantity of the material therebetween. The stop is positioned at least partially between the pressing surfaces and has a thickness substantially equal to the desired uniform thickness of the layer. The stop is positioned to establish a spacing between the flat pressing surfaces that is substantially equal to the thickness of the stop and thereby to the desired uniform thickness of the layer when the pressing elements engage the stop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Guy T. Blalock, Hugh E. Stroupe, Brian F. Gordon
  • Publication number: 20030205334
    Abstract: Amethod for constructing a composite structure is disclosed. The method comprises four steps. Step one calls for coupling a flexible layer to a base, where the flexible layer has a working surface and an underside surface. Step two requires coupling at least one support element to the underside surface of the flexible layer. The next step calls for coupling at least one adjustable element to the support element for adjusting the position of the flexible layer. The last step requires configuring the flexible layer to a configuration suitable for constructing the composite structure. More specifically, the flexible layer may have internal reinforcing elements for added strength and durability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2001
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventors: David E. Sherrill, Kendall G. Young
  • Patent number: 6637491
    Abstract: A sealing head for a lidding machine is disclosed. The sealing head comprises a ball-and-socket joint that allows the head to provide an even, consistent seal when the orientation of the lid and container is not perfectly perpendicular with the sealing head. The sealing head also comprises an insulator portion that rests against the lid during sealing to protect the contents of the container from excessive heat. Heat is applied to the lid through a rim that extends around the circumference of the insulator portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Assignee: Creative Foods, LLC
    Inventors: Samuel M. Massey, Richard Phillips, Jim G. Gardner, Paul D. Balentine
  • Publication number: 20030183327
    Abstract: The invention relates to a process for positionally precise cladding of film sheets (4), with self-adhesive coatings on their backside (4a), onto parts (2) to be glued, especially car body components. The respective film sheet (4), in a convexly curved state of its self-adhesive backside, is pre-positioned into a defined orientation and then clad, by means of a determinately controlled pressure and rolling motion, onto the respective part (2) to be glued, which is fixed in a defined arrangement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2002
    Publication date: October 2, 2003
    Inventor: Michael Titze
  • Patent number: 6626223
    Abstract: A pressure sealer machine is provided for the production of pressure sealed documents, and more specifically nested documents, that uses a number of roller cassettes disposed in side-by-side relation, in parallel to at least one drive roller, for handling forms with inserts. In the preferred embodiment, each cassette is a dual roller cassette to include infeed and outfeed rollers. The cassettes are sized relative to the wheels so that there is a lateral gap between adjacent seal wheels, so that the cassettes produce a seal pattern composed of a series of seal strips having a uniform gap therebetween. Each cassette is spring loaded at its top side and pressure is uniformly applied to the system using a pressure plate to compress all cassette springs simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Assignee: Moore North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Rebecca L. Parker
  • Patent number: 6627028
    Abstract: In a method for simultaneously welding to one another the layers of several pairs of thermoplastic foils arranged in a stack, a primary heat energy source is positioned between two pairs of thermoplastic foils, and welding heat energy is supplied to the two pairs via the primary heat energy source. The press for performing this method has two pressing elements for applying pressure to the stack of n pairs of layers of thermoplastic foils. The two pressing elements are positioned at opposite ends of the stack and force the layers of the pairs of thermoplastic foils toward one another. A stacked arrangement of n−1 flat, bar-shaped heating elements is aligned with the two pressing elements. Between two adjacent heating elements a respective pair of thermoplastic foils is received such that the pairs of thermoplastic foils alternate with the heating elements. The stacked arrangement of the heating elements is arranged in a plane that is perpendicular to the planes of the thermoplastic foils.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Assignee: Paul Kiefel GmbH
    Inventor: Heinz Hinterseer
  • Patent number: 6626225
    Abstract: Press table insert for a coating press for multi-side film coating of form boards with a press table (1) which can be moved into the coating press, and which is equipped with numerous individual carriers (5) for taking up the workpieces (13) which are to be coated, whereby the individual carriers (5) can be moved horizontally on the press table (1) within their ranges of movement (10) for taking up the workpieces (13), whereby the height of each individual carrier (5) is shortened during the pressing process. A process for multi-side film coating of form boards is envisaged too. Thereby the film which is to be processed is first of all heated and then coated onto the boards by applying vacuum and pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Assignee: Renate Kochberger
    Inventor: Andreas Kochberger
  • Patent number: 6623577
    Abstract: An electric component compression bonding machine for bonding a plurality of electric components arranged in a row to a substrate is described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: Shibaura Mechatronics Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshitsugu Ogawa, Shinichi Ogimoto, Kunihiro Iwanaga
  • Patent number: 6619359
    Abstract: The invention features an apparatus for mounting a pellicle to a reticle. The apparatus includes: a base; a first holder coupled to the base and including two edges positioned to support a first object below its center of gravity and secure the first object in substantially vertical alignment with the base, the first object including one of the pellicle and the reticle; a second holder slidably coupled to the base and including two edges positioned to support a second object below its center of gravity and secure the second object in substantially vertical alignment with the base, the second object including the other of the pellicle and the reticle; and a pressure applicator assembly slidably coupled to the base to adjustably apply pressure to a periphery of the second object held in the second holder and drive it against a corresponding periphery of the first object held in the first holder. In additional embodiments, the apparatus provides automated mounted of the pellicle and reticle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignee: Brooks Automation, Inc.
    Inventors: Shane P. Ballard, Robert J. Viola, Carl E. Merkel, Robert Teissler
  • Patent number: 6612475
    Abstract: A shifting device for fixing and conveying a tape comprises a first head having a first surface to contact with a top of the tape, and a second head having a second surface to contact with a bottom of the tape. The first surface has a plurality of first strip-shaped projections thereon, and the second surface has a plurality of second strip-shaped projections thereon, such that the top surface of first striped-shaped projection is parallel to the first surface and the top surface of the second strip-shaped projection is parallel to the second surface. When the first head and the second head come into contact with the tape, the first strip-shaped projection is perpendicular to the second strip-shaped projection such that pressed regions of the tape which are pressed by both the first head and the second head are distributed in an array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: Hannstar Display Corporation
    Inventor: Cheng-Ming Chen
  • Patent number: 6613190
    Abstract: A length of metallic lead from having anode terminals and cathode terminals integrally formed with each other extends between upper and lower molds of an apparatus for manufacturing tantalum solid electrolytic capacitors. The cathode terminals are first coated with a thermosetting conductive adhesive, and cathode layers of capacitor elements are then placed on the conductive adhesive. Thereafter, anode leads extending outwardly from the capacitor elements are placed on the anode terminals are joined thereto, respectively, by welding. A pressure is applied to the capacitor elements so that a portion of the conductive adhesive is squeezed out from one surface of each of the plurality of capacitor elements to a neighboring side surface thereof. The cathode terminals are then joined to the capacitor elements, respectively, by heat-curing the conductive adhesive, and the capacitor elements are finally covered with a sheathing resin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Minoru Omori, Yoshitsugu Uenishi, Osamu Tomita, Nario Kawakita, Masakuni Ogino, Yoji Masuda, Tsuyoshi Yoshino
  • Patent number: 6613176
    Abstract: Subject invention provides method of arranging multiplayer passive electronic components, enabling simple arranging of rolled thin foil from a roll on a supporting block in order to form a stack, where supporting plastic foil with thin foil (63) in it is led from unrolling mechanism (67) for unrolling the foil, over the cross knife (66) and over two rotating side knives (68), through the pressing tool (65) over the separating crossbar (610) and pulling mechanism (612) to the rolling mechanism (611) for rolling the supporting foil, from which the thin foil is already separated, where the supporting block (57) is put under the pressing tool (65). The invention also provided the supporting block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: Keko Oprema, d.o.o.
    Inventors: Joze Stupar, Anton Konda
  • Publication number: 20030131946
    Abstract: An anvil assembly having a housing and two rotatable inserts with flat upper surfaces against which the heated shoes of a package sealing machine may press a covering sheet onto a plastic package tape. The inserts have a limited range of rotation so that they automatically align themselves to be parallel to the heated shoes when they are contacted thereby. This rotatable insert feature obviates the need for precise, laborious alignment efforts. Alternatively, a pair of rotatable blades are pivotally attached to the shoes and act against a fixed anvil surface, thereby automatically aligning themselves to be parallel to the anvil surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2003
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Inventor: Scott B. Melheim
  • Patent number: 6571850
    Abstract: An anvil assembly having a housing and two rotatable inserts with flat upper surfaces against which the heated shoes of a package sealing machine may press a covering sheet onto a plastic package tape. The inserts have a limited range of rotation so that they automatically align themselves to be parallel to the heated shoes when they are contacted thereby. This rotatable insert feature obviates the need for precise, laborious alignment efforts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: V-Tek Incorporated
    Inventor: Scott B. Melheim
  • Publication number: 20030098117
    Abstract: A method and system for manufacturing a consolidated cellulosic article having first and second surfaces of a desired contour, a uniform density and variable caliper and basis weight are disclosed. The method and system employ a primary press having first and second similarly contoured platens to consolidate a mat of cellulosic material and a binding agent to a softboard having first level of density with first and second opposed sides of similar contour. A removal tool is then employed to remove cellulosic material from one or both of the first and second sides in a planar fashion. The resulting mat is then compressed a second time by a secondary press having first and second platens corresponding in shape to a higher density level while maintaining a substantially uniform caliper and basis weight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2001
    Publication date: May 29, 2003
    Inventor: Dennis H. Vaders
  • Publication number: 20030094241
    Abstract: A die bonder includes a conveyor, a pre-heater, at least one carrier, a paste-dispensing mechanism, a die taking/placing mechanism, and a heater. The conveyor continuously operates in a ring-shaped manner. The carrier is carried on the conveyor to position the substrate. The pre-heater heats the substrate to eliminate the moisture in the substrate. The paste-dispensing mechanism dispenses an adhesive agent onto the substrate. Then, the die taking/placing mechanism places a die onto the substrate at a position where the adhesive agent is dispensed. Finally, the heater is used to cure the adhesive agent so as to bond the die to the substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2002
    Publication date: May 22, 2003
    Inventors: Yao-Ting Huang, Kuang-Chun Chou
  • Patent number: 6561249
    Abstract: A press device for coating table board-shaped pieces of furniture on their upper side and side surfaces, whereby the workpieces lie next to each other on a supporting system that has many supporting bolts distributed in a grid-like manner, which can be adjusted between a passive position out of contact with the workpieces and a coating position that supports the workpieces. An elastic membrane is arranged above the supporting bolts, on which the workpieces can be placed. The elastic membrane functions to support the coating film during the coating operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Assignee: Robert Burkle GmbH
    Inventor: Reinhard Huber
  • Patent number: 6554046
    Abstract: A cleaving tool provides pressurized gas to the edge of a substrate to cleave the substrate at a selected interface. A substrate, such as a bonded substrate, is loaded into the cleaving tool, and two halves of the tool are brought together to apply a selected pressure to the substrate. A compliant pad of selected elastic resistance provides support to the substrate while allowing the substrate to expand during the cleaving process. Bringing the two halves of the tool together also compresses an edge seal against the perimeter of the substrate. A thin tube connected to a high-pressure gas source extends through the edge seal and provides a burst of gas to separate the substrate into at least two sheets. In a further embodiment, the perimeter of the substrate is struck with an edge prior to applying the gas pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Assignee: Silicon Genesis Corporation
    Inventors: Michael A. Bryan, James K. Kai
  • Patent number: 6546986
    Abstract: A panel forming method and apparatus used compressed fibrous material such as straw, hay and the like. The fibrous material from bales is debailled by debailler rollers and passed to straw walkers. The straw walkers move the material to crop shredders which deposit the shredded fiber on a conveyor. A leveller roller smooths the mat on the conveyor which mat moves to a picker roller. The picker roller moves the crop into a chute and a compression cavity where the material is severed and compressed by a reciprocating ram. The severed and compressed material has glued paper applied to its upper and lower surfaces and thereafter moves between heated platens for curing the glue. The severed and compressed material now forming a longitudinal panel is pulled by puller rollers and subsequently severed into panels of a desired length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Enviro Board Corporation
    Inventors: Monty Raymond Waggoner, Delano Halder Fehr
  • Patent number: 6533885
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an article of footwear and method for making the same, where the article of footwear has a minimal number of upper pieces. The method of the present invention is directed to a process for manufacturing an article of footwear having a single or multiple layer upper. Each layer of the upper according to the present invention is constructed of a one-piece upper material. At least the outer layer of the upper is molded utilizing an embossing tool according to the present invention, such that the desired appearance of the upper is embossed on the outer layer. Additionally, the improved shoe manufacturing process of the present invention may further comprise the step of decorating at least the outer layer of the upper, by screen printing, sublimation, large format ink jet printing, cold and hot peel transfers, fabric dyeing and/or multi-layered digital printing, allowing for multiple or different colorways to be created using a single base color upper material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: Reebok International Ltd.
    Inventors: Paul M. Davis, Jon E. Tripp, Sr., Paul N. Beaulieu
  • Patent number: 6527030
    Abstract: The present invention provides an unit of sealing implement comprising a plurality of single sealing implements each one of which comprising, a flexible filament part, an insertion head part having an appropriate engaging part provided on one end part of said filament part, and a socket part having a hole for the purpose of irreversibly inserting said insertion head part, and provided on another end of said filament, and wherein a plurality of said single sealing implements are mutually and adjacently arranged in parallel with each other and each of said plurality of insertion head parts or a portion proximity thereto and each of said plurality of socket parts or a portion proximity thereto being caused to be connected to separately provided connecting bars, respectively, and further wherein each of side wall surfaces of said socket part each being adjacently arranged to each other, and which being oppositely disposed to each other, are connected with each other via a connecting means and by using this sealin
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Kotec's Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hideyuki Ueno
  • Patent number: 6523596
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for manufacturing a flexible curtain as disclosed and claimed. Edges of a polymeric material are folded back on themselves. A portion of the edges are secured and a portion is left unsecured or free. The flexible curtain is used in a windlocking apparatus to prevent the unwanted intrusion of wind, water and debris into a building opening. The free, or unsecured flap of the folded edge absorbs shock associated with storm disturbances. Edge rollers are used to laminate the edges of the curtains selectively such that only a portion of the edge is secured leaving the flap unsecured. Stitching, ultrasonic welding and gluing are alternative ways and/or additional ways of providing for the securement of a portion of the edge to itself. Perforations are made in the secured portion of the folded edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Assignee: Wayne-Dalton Corporation
    Inventors: Willis Jay Mullet, Donald Bruce Kyle, Kelly Ray Green, Harry Edward Asbury
  • Patent number: 6516813
    Abstract: A finger nail decal attaching device includes a base member having a recess for receiving finger therein. A strip driven by two mandrels is movably located above the base member and a plurality of decals are connected to the strip. A heating member is located beside the strip and softens the decals. A pressing member has a rod and a soft pad which is connected to a first end of the rod and located above the strip. The rod is moved toward the strip by pivoting a lever connected to the rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2003
    Inventor: Chih-Hao Yiu
  • Patent number: 6511567
    Abstract: A composite building component, including a non-planar molded composite web having two outer zones and two angled zones wherein the caliper of the angled zones differs from the caliper of at least one of the outer zones, and a flange disposed on an outer surface of an outer zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2003
    Assignee: International Paper Company
    Inventors: Mark A. Ruggie, Brian Bonomo, Lemuel Lee Braddock, Toplica Koledin, Bei-Hong Liang, Steven K. Lynch, Kathleen Nemivant, Beverly Pearce, Mark Allen Weldon
  • Patent number: 6508901
    Abstract: A system and method for cutting and heat sealing polypropylene film and/or other separator material around individually shaped cathode, anode or other active components, for use in a battery or capacitor and/or other implantable medical device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Assignee: Wilson Greatbatch Ltd.
    Inventors: Robert D. Miller, Raymond S. Konopa
  • Patent number: 6499526
    Abstract: A bonding tool includes an aluminum metal alloy bar member of a predetermined width, the bar having an upper surface, a lower surface, and opposing longitudinal edges. A resilient material is adhesively joined with the bar, the resilient material having an upper surface, a lower surface and opposing longitudinal edges. The joining of the resilient sponge material to the bar is such that an entire upper surface of the sponge material is coextensive with an entire lower surface of the bar member. The bonding tool is made in several, for example five, sections and is laid on a cable for bonding the cable to a capsule or the like in a separate process. The sections are keyed so as to interlock one to another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Raymond A. St. Amand, Ronald E. Sprague, John H. Pelto
  • Patent number: 6484783
    Abstract: The present invention is a workpiece holding device. The device should be shaped in a configuration tailored to the workpieces that are to be held together or dispersed. The device should have a flow channel that would transmit hydraulic force being applied to the device so as to either retain or disperse workpieces adjacent to the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Assignee: Thermwood Corporation
    Inventor: Kenneth J. Susnjara
  • Patent number: 6484776
    Abstract: In one form of the present invention, a system for constructing a laminate (122) is disclosed. The system comprises a ply feeder (101) that sequentially stacks one or more plies (100) to form a ply stack (102). A computer (106) directs a laser (104) to cut each ply (100) to a desired shape after becoming part of the ply stack (102). The ply stack (102) is then placed on a reconfigurable tool (112). An applied pressure compresses the ply stack (102) against the reconfigurable tool (112) while an actuator (124) subsequently reconfigures the reconfigurable tool pins (114) to a predetermined shape. In a more particular embodiment, a composites forming process is used, such as diaphragm forming, to compress the ply stack (102) before the reconfigurable tool pins (114) are reconfigured. In another particular embodiment, the reconfigurable tool pins (114) are first reconfigured then a vacuum diaphragm forming process is utilized to compress the ply stack (102) against the reconfigurable tool (112).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Assignee: Northrop Grumman Corporation
    Inventors: Raymond J. Meilunas, Gregory P. Dillon, Jerrell A. Nardiello
  • Publication number: 20020129886
    Abstract: A laminator assembly and lamination method which comprise:
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2001
    Publication date: September 19, 2002
    Applicant: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventor: Roger S. Kerr
  • Publication number: 20020117267
    Abstract: An electric component compression bonding machine for bonding a plurality of electric components arranged in a row to a substrate is described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2002
    Publication date: August 29, 2002
    Applicant: SHIBAURA MECHATRONICS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yoshitsugu Ogawa, Shinichi Ogimoto, Kunihiro Iwanaga
  • Publication number: 20020112824
    Abstract: The invention features an apparatus for mounting a pellicle to a reticle. The apparatus includes: a base; a first holder coupled to the base and including two edges positioned to support a first object below its center of gravity and secure the first object in substantially vertical alignment with the base, the first object including one of the pellicle and the reticle; a second holder slidably coupled to the base and including two edges positioned to support a second object below its center of gravity and secure the second object in substantially vertical alignment with the base, the second object including the other of the pellicle and the reticle; and a pressure applicator assembly slidably coupled to the base to adjustably apply pressure to a periphery of the second object held in the second holder and drive it against a corresponding periphery of the first object held in the first holder. In additional embodiments, the apparatus provides automated mounted of the pellicle and reticle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2001
    Publication date: August 22, 2002
    Inventors: Shane P. Ballard, Robert J. Viola, Carl E. Merkel, Robert Teissler
  • Patent number: 6432250
    Abstract: Subject invention provides method of arranging multiplayer passive electronic components, enabling simple arranging of rolled thin foil from a roll on a supporting block in order to form a stack, where supporting, plastic foil with thin foil (63) in it is led from unrolling mechanism (67) for unrolling the foil, over the cross knife (66) and over two rotating side knives (68), through the pressing tool (65), over the separating crossbar (610) and pulling mechanism (612) to the rolling mechanism (611) for rolling of the supporting foil, from which the this foil is already separated, where the supporting block (57) is put under the pressing tool (65). The invention also provides the supporting block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Assignee: Keko Oprema, d.o.o.
    Inventors: Joze Stupar, Anton Konda
  • Patent number: 6423169
    Abstract: A sublimation heat transfer system and related method for transferring a pattern of sublimating ink from a transfer sheet to a coating on an article includes a carousel for moving the article and transfer sheet in an endless path through loading/unloading portions and through a transfer portion. A plurality of plungers and fixtures are attached to the carousel for receiving multiple articles and transfer sheets in a continuous fashion. An actuator acts to extend the plungers along the loading portion for forcing the transfer sheets firmly against the coatings of the articles throughout the transfer portion and to retract the plungers along the unloading portion for removal and separation of the printed articles and the spent transfer sheets. A driver imparts motion to the carousel. A heater in the form of an oven enclosing the carousel activates the coating on the article and the ink.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Assignee: Hunter Manufacturing Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Dwayne A. Cobb
  • Publication number: 20020088555
    Abstract: A structure of a laminate press machine for hoisting up a movable board with lifts located above an upper board is proposed, wherein the movable board (and pressure plates) can be hoisted in a well-balanced parallel position while at the same time obviating the inconveniences which otherwise might be caused in the various parts at the time of hoisting. In a press machine so configured that a movable board is hoisted by lifts located above an upper board to press each workpiece L between pressure plates, guide bars are vertically erected in the neighborhood of the four corners of said movable board and have guide surfaces in a plane where said movable board is not rotated about the center of the flat surface where the lines from the neighborhood of the four corner positions cross each other, the guide surfaces extending from the neighborhood of the four corner positions in the direction along the crossing lines.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2001
    Publication date: July 11, 2002
    Inventor: Shoji Urano
  • Patent number: 6413334
    Abstract: In a method for the thermal bonding of a base part (3) of a packaging with a cover film (F), especially for the welding or sealing of a base part of a packaging for contact lenses with a cover film, the contact surface of the base part (3) facing the cover film (F) and the corresponding contact surface of the cover film (F) facing the base part are mechanically pressed against one another along a join. While the mechanical pressure is being generated along the join, heat is simultaneously caused to act on the join, so that the contact surfaces of base part (3) and cover film (F) are thermally bonded to one another along the join. For the purpose of generating the mechanical pressure and causing heat to act on the join there is used a contact plate (70) of low heat capacity which, during the thermal bonding, is pressed against the surface of the cover film (F) remote from the contact surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Assignee: Novartis AG
    Inventors: Peter Rittner, Peter Zang, Dieter Koch, Bernd Bochmann, Kurt Heinzelmann, Karl Kappler, Heiner Hornberger, Heinz Schlumpberger
  • Patent number: 6408920
    Abstract: A method capable of bonding lengthy horizontal plate materials and lengthy vertical plate materials to each other without skill of a worker and with uniform and beautiful finish, and a press-bonding jig used for the method. The press-bonding jig is set at a workbench, which has a vertical wall section for positioning lengthy horizontal plate materials and lengthy vertical plate materials, or at a member disposed around the workbench to press and fix the respective plate materials to each other along edges thereof, comprising a frame having a sufficient length to support the plate materials and holding air cylinders for actuating rubber pads in a pressing direction, and means for starting and stopping the air cylinders. The press-bonding jig is used to made complicated manual fixing operation needless and enables bonding in a short time with a beautiful finish.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Assignee: Du Pont-MRC Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yakuzo Tanizaki, Seigi Suzuki, Shigeyuki Nishiura
  • Patent number: 6402866
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for forming metal circuit patterns and other designs on greensheets and other substrates. The method and apparatus utilize a metal containing transfer sheet whereby selected portions of the metal containing transfer sheet are transferred to the greensheet forming the desired circuit pattern and then the transfer sheet removed. The metal containing transfer sheet may contain a release layer. Transfer methods include stamping, hot rolling, laser beam, heat, etc. and combinations thereof The transfer sheet may also have a stratified or graded vertical profile so that different conductivities or other circuit properties (transfer sheet adhesion, etc.) may be obtained in the formed pattern on the substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Jon A. Casey, John U. Knickerbocker, David C. Long, Brenda L. Peterson
  • Patent number: 6368437
    Abstract: A rotary bonding apparatus includes a rotatable drum and one or more bonding elements, for example, ultrasonic horn and anvil assemblies, which rotate with the drum. The drum includes a web-supporting surface, and web material which is to be bonded rotates with the drum. The web material is positioned between the bonding elements and the web and bonding elements rotate at the same velocity so that the bonding elements are stationary relative to the web being bonded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: Paper Converting Machine Company
    Inventors: Paul Ziegelhoffer, Bart Hardy, Michael Jarmuskiewicz, Frank Jocewicz
  • Patent number: 6354352
    Abstract: In a method for simultaneously welding to one another the layers of several pairs of thermoplastic foils arranged in a stack, a primary heat energy source is positioned between two pairs of thermoplastic foils, and welding heat energy is supplied to the two pairs via the primary heat energy source. The press for performing this method has two pressing elements for applying pressure to the stack of n pairs of layers of thermoplastic foils. The two pressing elements are positioned at opposite ends of the stack and force the layers of the pairs of thermoplastic foils toward one another. A stacked arrangement of n−1 flat, bar-shaped heating elements is aligned with the two pressing elements. Between two adjacent heating elements a respective pair of thermoplastic foils is received such that the pairs of thermoplastic foils alternate with the heating elements. The stacked arrangement of the heating elements is arranged in a plane that is perpendicular to the planes of the thermoplastic foils.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Assignee: Paul Kiefel GmbH
    Inventor: Heinz Hinterseer