Abstract: In a vibration welding structure for fixing an attachment to an instrument panel (12), a first projection (70) resiliently deformable in a predetermined vibrating direction is provided on the instruction panel (12) so as to project from the instrument panel (12) toward an air conditioner duct (15). First fitting groove portion (72) is formed in the air conditioner duct (15) for fitting engagement with a distal end portion (70a) of the first projection (70). Further, a first positioning mechanism (74) is provided between the instrument panel (12) and the air conditioner duct (15) for positioning the air conditioner duct 15 in a direction perpendicular to the vibrating direction.

Abstract: Method and device for the rotational friction welding of plastic parts. A method for the rotational friction welding of plastics wherein a rotationally symmetrical plastic body is set in rotation and, as it rotates, is pressed against a welding location of a plastic part that is held stationary until plastification of the pressing surfaces of the plastic part and/or the plastic body is achieved, and wherein the rotationally symmetrical plastic body is braked to a standstill after plastifying and is held pressed against the stationary plastic part until the plastified pressing surfaces solidify, is known. According to the invention, the rotationally symmetrical plastic body is pressed at a circumferential speed of more than 7 m/s and a pressing pressure of less than 0.5 N/mm2 against the welding location of the plastic part that is held stationary. Use for plastic tanks.

Abstract: By forging a metal material, there is formed a dustproof boot 20 in which a side of an opening end portion 20b formed with a groove 34 for a dustproof boot is provided with a diameter smaller than that of a side of a piston main body 20a, and a total thereof is provided with a substantially uniform wall thickness, thereafter, by carrying out ironing from a front end of the opening end portion 20b to the piston main body side, the recess groove 34 for the dustproof boot can be formed by providing a build-up portion 20c at the opening end portion.

Abstract: A method for weldbonding at least two work-pieces together includes applying an adhesive to a first surface of a first work-piece, and bringing the first surface of the first work-piece into contact with a surface of a second work-piece. The first work-piece and second work-piece are then friction stir or friction stir spot welded together, and the adhesive is cured. The use of bonding tools to maintain the two work-pieces together during curing of the adhesive is eliminated.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for joining liquid-crystalline polyester resin composition parts, characterized in that the melting point of the liquid crystalline polyester resin measured by differential scanning calorimeter is 190-250° C. and that the parts are jointed by means of welding. By using the method of the present invention, jointed articles with sufficient joint strength are provided with accuracy.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for connecting two bodies according to which a connection means is arranged between connection surfaces of the bodies to be connected. The connection surfaces and the interlying connection means are held adjacent to each other. At least one of the bodies is mechanically stimulated in order to produce friction and frictional heat. The connection means contains at least one cross-linkable polymer or polymerisable and cross-linkable resin which is converted into a thermoplastic material by means of the frictional heat produced, rendering the connection means and the composite of the two bodies considerably more heat-resistant.

Abstract: In a method and apparatus for forming a bonded web comprised at least in part of a polyester, a first material web and a second material web are arranged in opposed relationship with each other at least along those portions of the first and second material webs to be bonded together. At least one of the first and second material webs is comprised at least in part of the polyester. The opposed webs are transported in a machine direction to the nip of a bonding apparatus comprised of a first bonding member and a second bonding member defining the nip therebetween for passage of the opposed first and second material webs therebetween in the machine direction. A shear force is applied to the webs generally in the machine direction at the nip and the webs are mechanically bonded together at the nip while the shear force is applied to webs.

Abstract: An apparatus for making a surface treating article, and in one embodment for making a plurality of surface treating articles. The apparatus includes an attaching means for attaching a fastener to a surface treating web and a cutting means for cutting the web around the fastener to provide a surface treating article. In one embodiment, a sensor, such as a machine vision system, senses a position of the fastener on the web, with this sensed position being used to direct operation of the cutting means.

Abstract: Methods of using subsonic and/or sonic forces to couple a heat sink to a heat-generating component are described. Heat sinks coupled to heat-generating components via thermal interface materials are also described.

Abstract: A method for joining bodies by melting down a joining element. The joining element acts on a surface of one of the bodies and penetrates the surface as a result of a directed force. Once in a penetrated condition, a mechanical excitation is generated such that during further penetration of the joining element into the one body, the advance is maintained through the directed force and the melting down is maintained through the mechanical excitation. Molten or melted material is hydraulically displaced into the bodies.

Abstract: A die attachment includes a placement head, a platen, and a vibration mechanism to vibrate at least a selected one of the placement head and platen while a die and a substrate mounted on the placement head and the platen, respectively, are in contact.

Abstract: A float operated fuel vapor vent valve has body structure with an annular mounting flange formed of material weldable to a fuel tank and the flange is spin welded to the tank. The float has surfaces thereon which slidably engage corresponding surfaces in the float chamber to prevent relative rotation of the float with respect to the valve body during spin welding. An optional pressure relief valve in the vent outlet also has surfaces slidably engaging the vent passage to prevent relative rotation during spin welding.

Abstract: In a vibration welding structure for fixing an attachment to an instrument panel (12), a first projection (70) resiliently deformable in a predetermined vibrating direction is provided on the instruction panel (12) so as to project from the instrument panel (12) toward an air conditioner duct (15). A first fitting groove portion (72) is formed in the air conditioner duct (15) for fitting engagement with a distal end portion (70a) of the first projection (70). Further, a first positioning mechanism (74) is provided between the instrument panel (12) and the air conditioner duct (15) for positioning the air conditioner duct 15 in a direction perpendicular to the vibrating direction.

Abstract: Vibratory welded connections are formed between first and second members (32, 33) of thermoplastic material by interposing a junction piece (47) of similar material and vibrating the junction piece (47) at high speed while pressing the first second members (32,33) in a controlled manner against opposite sides of the junction piece (47). Friction created by the vibration generates heat which melts a small amount of material at the engaging surfaces which upon cooling provides a strong welded joint having minimal flash. Entire frame systems such as window-frames can be fabricated by an apparatus system (120) which forms a friction welded joint between adjacent ends of the frame members (134, 135, 136, 137). Furthermore the frame can be fabricated around a panel such as a glazing panel. The welded connections formed by the system do not mar the finish of the frame members and produce no unsightly flash bead requiring subsequent machining steps for its removal.

Abstract: An air filter arrangement for use in a heating or cooling system including a frame and a filtration member secured within the frame. The frame is defined by a pair of opposed frame components or halves, which are removably or permanently fastened to one another with the filtration member sandwiched therebetween. The frame itself defines a template for permitting trimming of the filter arrangement to one of number of standard filter sizes. The frame is vacuum formed, which allows the frame to be formed from a thin, sheet-like plastic material, and results in a flexible, yet rigid frame which allows easy trimming by the user and provides a filter arrangement with is lightweight and inexpensive to manufacture.

Abstract: The invention concerns manufactured articles comprising at least two assembled thermoplastic elements, a first element based on polyolefin and a second element based on polyamide. The elements are assembled by being welded together.

Abstract: To make an inexpensive chromatographic column and perform chromatography with it, column walls and a column end with a port are molded integrally from plastic. A closure is integrally molded with a port as well. One type of closure includes part of a snap-on fastener integrally molded to it to cooperate with corresponding parts molded integrally with the column walls and another type of closure is welded to the tubular walls. In the preferred embodiment the welding is spin welding. The end and closure have channels molded into them radiating from a port and opening toward packing material such as silica beads or porous polymeric plugs. Filters and secondary seals may be located at the ends to prevent leakage of packing material.

Abstract: A vibrator assembly is for use on a strapping head for a strapping machine configured to position, tension and seal strapping material around a load. The strapping head includes a body, an anvil, and a welding motor having a rotating output shaft. The vibrator assembly includes an eccentric element operably mounted to the welding motor output shaft for rotation therewith. A bearing is disposed about the eccentric element, A housing is houses the eccentric element and bearing at least in part within the housing. The housing defines a cup-shaped well having a first axis length and a second axis length. The first axis length is longer than the second axis length. The first axis length is in a transverse direction, and the second axis length is in an oscillating direction. The bearing is restrained in the oscillating direction. A weld pad is operably connected to the housing by a link.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method, apparatus, and design of a fusion welded pipe wherein the effects of an inner bead of the fusion weld are minimized. The internal shape of the pipe prior to welding may be configured in several different shapes so that the beads or lips produced by the fusion welding process are unobtrusive and do not interfere with the function of the pipe. In a likewise manner, the outer shape of the pipe prior to welding may be configured so that the lips are unobtrusive on the external surface of the pipe.

Abstract: A welding device has two mutually engaging welding wheels, together with a separating device having a blade with a cutting edge. Two film webs can be welded together in conventional manner using the welding device. The blade is able to separate a projecting length from the welded film, the blade being heated. Heating takes place by a heat bridge, which connects the blade to a heater of the welding device. This economizes a separate heater for the blade.

Abstract: In the toner cartridge recycling and remanufacturing industry, used xerographic toner cartridges are reconditioned and refilled with toner. There are various types and models of toner cartridges, each having unique physical properties. The present invention is directed to the reassembling of toner cartridges that may not have sufficient securing surfaces to allow the cartridge to be physically held together using an external securing device. The present invention will also enable the toner cartridges to be more efficiently remanufactured by allowing a quick connect or disconnect during the assembly or disassembly process.

Abstract: A method of securing a sealing washer to one surface of a metal sheet while welding a head of a fastener to a second surface of a metal sheet, the method comprising: compressing the head onto the second surface of the sheet between a first electrode engaging the head and a second electrode engaging the first surface of the sheet, welding the head to the second surface of the sheet by electrical resistance welding to heat the first surface of the sheet proximate to the first electrode, urging a sealing washer into the heated first surface with the second electrode to heat the sealing washer and thereby bond the sealing washer to the first surface.

Abstract: A dashboard is made that presents a cover for an air bag protection system, the cover being invisible from the outside and being defined by an inside line of weakness in the wall of the dashboard, the line of weakness defining an opening for the air bag. A layer of hard plastics material is injected molded; the line of weakness is cut locally inside the wall; the outside of the plastics layer is covered with a decorative covering; a tab with a hinge for hinging the cover is fastened to the cover; the reinforcing frame is fastened to the plastics layer, and prior to welding, it is ensured that a vibratory discontinuity exists between the frame and the tab so that during welding some of the vibration generated is absorbed away from the line of weakness; and the tab is fastened to the reinforcing frame.

Abstract: A peeling member for peeling a paper from a various types of rollers installed in an electrophotographic apparatus such as a copy machine and a laser beam printer is described. The peeling member comprises a peeling sheet, and a support member for supporting the peeling sheet, and the support member is adhered to the peeling sheet with laser spot welding. The peeling member suppresses waving of the peeling sheet, and adheres the peeling sheet with the support member uniformly.

Abstract: A method of forming a gas impermeable joint in a fluid system includes: providing a tube having a metallic barrier layer disposed between an inner plastic layer and an outer plastic layer; forcing at least one of the inner plastic layer and the outer plastic layer into contact with a plastic surface of a component; and welding the at least one of the inner plastic layer and the outer plastic layer with the plastic surface to form the gas impermeable joint. The welding may include: spin welding, hot plate welding, vibration welding, and ultrasonic welding. The metallic barrier layer extends substantially to the component, thus improving the gas impermeability of the joint between the tube and the component.

Abstract: The invention provides a rivet and method of installing the rivet to attach honeycomb material to other materials. The rivet is installed by drilling a hole through the materials. A back side sleeve of the rivet is inserted through one end of the hole while a front side sleeve with a stem member inserted therethrough is inserted through the other end of the hole such that the head of the stem member and the sleeve portion of the front sleeve are positioned within the sleeve portion of the back sleeve. The shank portion of the stem member is then pulled such that the head of the stem member expands the sleeve portions of the front and back sleeves into the materials to attach the rivet to the materials. A locking collar is also provided to lock the stem member to the front sleeve upon continued pulling of the stem member.

Abstract: A method of assembling a fluid filter begins with a step of aligning housing shells to form a housing. A seam is defined in an area where the housing shells contact one another. The housing shells surround and enclose a porous filter element, having an edge portion that is substantially parallel to an adjacent side wall of the housing. The next step involves heating the first and second housing shells in the area of the seam, such that the first and second end caps are fused together. Another step of the method involves moving molten plastic, from the seam area of the housing, inwardly to contact the filter element, such that the filter element becomes fixed in position in the housing. Preferably, the molten plastic is arranged to form a circumferential seal around the filter element. A filter made according to the method is also described.

Abstract: A filter housing assembly including a substantially frusto-conical shaped housing member having an open end portion and a substantially closed dome shaped portion, the housing member being adaptable for receiving a filter member therewithin and having at least one opening extending through the dome shaped portion for allowing air to enter therewithin. A first end cap member adaptable for engaging one end portion of a filter member is receivable within the housing member, and a second end cap member adaptable for engaging the opposite end portion of a filter member is engageable with the housing member. The second end cap member includes an opening for allowing air to exit the housing member. The housing member includes a centering mechanism engageable with the first end cap member for facilitating centering of the filter member within the housing member when the first end cap member is positioned within the housing member.

Abstract: A strapping head for a strapping machine includes a novel anvil arrangement having an offset connecting link for translating eccentric drive movement to linear oscillations for effecting strapping welds. The strapping head includes a stationary body, an anvil mounted to the body. A sealing member is disposed in a slot in the anvil. The sealing member oscillates in a longitudinal direction and is restrained from movement in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction. The offset link operably connects the drive and the sealing member. The link has a first element adapted to receive an eccentric movement and a second element adapted to deliver a linear oscillating movement. The first and second elements are operably connected to one another by a connecting pin. The first and second element lie on different planes to permit ready removal of the sealing member from the anvil slot.

Abstract: A fluid coupling between a fluid carrying first component and a second fluid carrying endform is formed by spin welding induced by a bonding material disposed in a recess in the first component which is spin weld compatible with the materials of the first and second component to spin weld join the first and second components together.

Abstract: A method for joining sheet portions to a cylindrical member comprises: positioning a cylindrical member between two flexible sheet portions, with the cylindrical member having an inner surface textured with minute projections; and then welding the flexible sheet portions to the cylindrical member, wherein provision of the minute projections resists melting of the cylindrical member due to heat applied during such welding.

Abstract: There are provided methods for fabricating baby bottle nipples which mimic the function of the human breast nipple. In the human breast nipple, milk is delivered to the baby through 15-25 fluid-delivery capillaries called lactiferous ducts. These ducts are 2-4 centimeters in length and 500-900 microns in diameter. Baby bottle nipples fabricated in accordance with the methods of this invention have the common feature of at least one hydrophilic fluid delivery passage. In one embodiment, the fluid delivery passage is a microtube. In another embodiment, the fluid delivery passage is a microchannel. In yet another embodiment, the fluid delivery passage comprises a porous reticulated foam with interconnected pores. In each of these embodiments, the fluid delivery passage has at least one dimension in the range of 1-2000 microns.

Abstract: A system and a method of fabricating a three-dimensional object consolidates material increments in accordance with a description of the object using a process that produces an atomically clean faying surface between the increments without melting the material in bulk. The CAD system (60) interfaces with a numerical controller (70), which controls an actuation system. The actuation system brings the support feed unit (62) the support ultrasonic welding unit (66), the object feed unit (64) and the object ultrasonic welding unit (68) into proper position in the work area (75), so that the ultrasonic consolidation of the layers takes place according to the CAD description of the object. In alternative embodiments, electrical resistance, and frictional methodologies are used for object consolidation. The invention further facilitates the construction and repair of dense objects, including fiber-reinforced composites and aerospace structures.

Abstract: A fabric having a backing layer with a lower surface, at least a portion of the backing layer adjacent the lower surface being formed from a thermoplastic material, is provided. At least the lower surface of the backing layer is heated in order to soften the lower surface of the backing layer, and a die having a surface in which are formed a plurality of recesses is forced into the softened lower surface of the backing layer in order to create a plurality of raised areas protruding from the lower surface of the backing layer. The fabric is placed on the substrate so that the raised areas protruding from the lower surface of the backing layer are in intimate pressurized contact with the substrate at an interface thereof, and a vibration or orbital welding process is performed thereon to achieve a bond therebetween.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for welding thermoplastic materials with a stir welding system using a rotating element pin or element with a geometry to induce frictional energy from the rotating element. A floating constraining surface that has a motion independent of the rotation the pin (preferably stationary) is used to constrain ejection of material from the zone where the weld is being formed. Molten material is retained in the weld region, avoiding weakness and voids at the weld joint. Optionally a system for introducing thermal energy into the weld zone in addition to the frictional energy is used. The system for introducing the thermal energy may be in association with the constraining shoe and/or the rotating tool, or a system independent of these.

Abstract: The present invention provides a welded article having improved weld line strength, said article comprising a resin composition wherein said resin composition comprises at least one polyphenylene ether, at least one poly(alkenylaromatic) compound and at least one polyalkyleneimine. In a preferred embodiment, the welded article has been manufactured using at least one of ultrasonic welding and vibration welding, e.g., linear friction welding and spin friction welding. In another preferred embodiment, the welded article has a peak weld line stress of at least 800 psi, preferably of at least 1000 psi.

Abstract: To manufacture a plastic oil pan having an integrated oil filter, a first filter component is assembled. This first filter component includes a filter medium and an oil pan integrated surface section. In addition, the first filter component is placed into a first tool, a second component is placed in a second tool, and the second tool is closed on to the first tool so that a first flange of the first filter component is pressed unto a second flange of the second filter component. Furthermore, the first flange is vibration welded to the second flange. In this manner, the second filter component is fixed upon the oil pan integrated surface section to create a hermetic seal between the second filter component and the oil pan integrated surface section. Moreover, the second tool is separated from the first tool and the oil pan having the integrated oil filter is removed.

Abstract: A method of assembling a structure comprises applying an epoxy composition to at least one of a first member and a second member, sandwiching the epoxy composition between the first and second members, and bonding the two members wherein the adhesive bond is a thermally cured mass. The epoxy composition contains an epoxy resin, a phenolic or amine compound as a chain extender, a basic catalyst and a polymeric toughener. The composition can be formulated in two parts wherein part A contains the catalyst and part B has the epoxy resin.

Abstract: In the toner cartridge recycling and remanufacturing industry, used xerographic toner cartridges are reconditioned and refilled with toner. There are various types and models of toner cartridges, each having unique physical properties. The present invention is directed to the reassembling of toner cartridges that may not have sufficient securing surfaces to allow the cartridge to be physically held together using an external securing device. The present invention will also enable the toner cartridges to be more efficiently remanufactured by allowing a quick connect or disconnect during the assembly or disassembly process.

Abstract: One object of the present invention is to provide a production method of a steering wheel in which divided bodies are securely integrated into a single unit without using adhesive. In order to achieve the object, the present invention provides a production method of a steering wheel comprising the steps of: a) providing a plurality of divided bodies 6, each of which comprises a surface material 3 and a plastic layer 4 provided on the inside of said surface material 3; b) forming an outer shell 2 by integrally welding said plastic layers 4 of said divided bodies 6; c) providing a core metal 1 to be arranged in said outer shell 2; and d) filling plastic between said outer shell 2 and said core metal 1.

Abstract: An energy management system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention has a substrate and a crash pad that are vibration welded together. A method for vibration welding first and second parts made of materials that are incompatible with being vibration welded includes prior to vibration welding the first and second parts, adhering to a surface of at least the first part a layer of material that is compatible with being vibration welded to the second part.

Abstract: In a method for manufacturing a type plate to be fastened on an article, a plate member is prepared of a temperature-resistant thermoplastic-material. The plate member forms a housing with a shell-shaped receptacle. A transponder having an empty memory is inserted into the receptacle. The receptacle is closed off by a lid of a temperature-resistant thermoplastic material. In the contact zone between the housing and the lid, the thermoplastic materials of the housing of the plate member and the lid are melted and a welding seam is formed. Data is applied in an optically readable form on a visible side of the type plate. At least some of the data is additionally input electromagnetically into the memory of the transponder so that the data that is input into the memory is readable electronically.

Abstract: A glass panel (P) including a pair of glass sheets (1A), (1B) disposed in a spaced relationship with each other with forming a gap (V) therebetween, characterized in that peripheral edges of the glass sheets (1A), (1B) are bonded directly by a single metal material (3) for sealing the gap (V) hermetically.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for the welding of two polyamide parts, both made of a polyamide composition comprising a polyamide and optionally additives, the polyamide of one part (part L) having a lower softening temperature than the polyamide of the other part (part H) and wherein the polyamide composition of part L comprises one or more viscosity increasing additives increasing the melt shear viscosity of the polyamide composition at least by 30% compared to melt shear viscosity of the polyamide (measured according to ISO 11443 (A1) standard at a shear rate of 100 s−1 in a capillary rheometer with I/d=30 mm/1 mm). The advantage is that a good weld strength is obtained and that parts with different properties can be combined. The invention further relates to polyamide welded objects obtainable by the process, like corrugated tubes, bellows, containers, fuel inlet systems, air inlet manifolds and airducts.

Abstract: A filter and a method of manufacturing the filter which is formed by spinning a fiber in a semi-molten state onto a mold such that the mold is provided as a filter structural member. The method obviates the need to remove the filter from the mold and thus simplifies the manufacture of the filter.

Abstract: A fabric having a backing layer with a lower surface, at least a portion of the backing layer adjacent the lower surface being formed from a thermoplastic material, is provided. At least the lower surface of the backing layer is heated in order to soften the lower surface of the backing layer, and a die having a surface in which are formed a plurality of recesses is forced into the softened lower surface of the backing layer in order to create a plurality of raised areas protruding from the lower surface of the backing layer. The fabric is placed on the substrate so that the raised areas protruding from the lower surface of the backing layer are in intimate pressurized contact with the substrate at an interface thereof, and a vibration or orbital welding process is performed thereon to achieve a bond therebetween.

Abstract: A process for bonding at least two elements (10, 12) of which at least one is impregnated with a thermostable thermoplastic resin or mixtures of resins, characterized in that the elements are placed in contact by pressure members which are adapted also to transmit vibrations to at least one of the elements so as to obtain temperature rise by friction at the interface, to the operating temperature comprised within a shoulder (20), comprising a less rapid increase of shoulder corresponding to the passage from the solid to the liquid condition of the resin or of the mixture of resins.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provide for dynamically bonding plural workpiece layers together. The apparatus comprises: a first assembly including a rotatable element having an outer circumferential portion adapted to engage one of the workpiece layers; a second assembly including an anvil roll adapted to engage another of the workpiece layers and defining with the rotatable element a nip for receiving the workpiece layers; a drive mechanism for effecting rotation of the rotatable element and the anvil roll; and servo motor apparatus for applying a predefined force to at least one of the rotatable element and the anvil roll so as to bias the rotatable element and the anvil roll together.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for vibrating, melting and creating well-bonded resin parts. Pressing the resin parts is started and then the pressing force is increased sharply to a predetermined value and the resin parts are vibrated to heat the resin part contact surfaces. After heat generation is started, the pressing force is increased gradually to a time, when the vibrating of the resin parts is finished, to push out the heated resin material from the contact surfaces. This exposes the new surface of the resin material which is heated at a low degree and thus can prevent the resin material at the contact surface from excessive heat and degradation. Thereafter, the vibration of the resin parts is stopped to solidify the resin material which is not degraded and is in a uniform, melted state throughout the contact surfaces.

Abstract: A method of friction welding first and second parts together at an angular orientation relative to each other includes the steps of mounting the first part in a spindle for axial rotation and the second part in a non-rotatable holder. The spindle is then rotated and the angular orientation of the first part relative to the second part is determined at any specific time. The holder is moved toward the spindle to bring the second part into frictional contact with the first part at a selected one of the specific times that the angular orientation is determined. Accordingly, due to frictional contact, the respective contacting surface of the parts are melted. The speed of the rotation of the spindle is then decreased and the holder is moved toward the spindle to forcibly urge the first and second parts together at the contacting surface.