Reclaiming, Renewing Or Repairing Articles For Reuse Patents (Class 156/94)
  • Publication number: 20010054474
    Abstract: A method for filling cracks in concrete surfaces using a one-component, hydrophilic polyurethane prepolymer without the addition of any granular impregnating agents is disclosed. The prepolymer is provided in a hand-held aerosol container and is injected into the cracks through hollow injection ports that are adhered in place on the surfaces over the cracks and subsequently closed off when filled. The crack is filled from the bottom up to prevent the formation of air pockets in the crack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2001
    Publication date: December 27, 2001
    Inventors: Robert Braun, Diana Dobrez-Florez, Jess Garcia, Deborah Schutter
  • Patent number: 6332490
    Abstract: A method for repairing a discrete damaged part of a strip bonded to an article surface includes applying a first removable masking member along and adjacent the damaged part of the strip and separated from the strip by a gap of at least 0.005″, and applying a second removable masking member to the outer surface of the strip. A repair adhesive, which can be cured at a curing temperature less than a higher temperature which can result in damage to properties of the article or a surface coating, is applied at and beneath an edge of the damaged part of the strip. Then the repair adhesive is cured at the curing temperature. Apparatus for bonding a strip to an end portion of the article includes a body having a channel there through defined, in part, by spaced apart support surfaces for article surfaces and positioned relative one to the other at a relative spatial position substantially coinciding with the relative spatial position of the article surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2001
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Philip R. Griggs
  • Publication number: 20010050133
    Abstract: The tape is free from any slack and separation even when it is applied and bonded to a metal joint portion while being bent. The tape, made of an unvulcanized material containing an unvulcanized rubber-base material, a vulcanization accelerator, an anti-oxidizing agent, a pigment and a bulk filler, is formed into an elongated shape having an upper and a lower surface and a predetermined thickness measured in a direction perpendicular to the lower surface or flat bottom surface 1. The upper surface forms a circularly-curved surface 2 in cross section. Since the tape is in an unvulcanized state, it is capable of being free bent when applied to the metal joint portion. After application of the tape to the metal joint portion, a paint is applied to the tape, which is followed by a heating process in which the tape is heated, and, therefore vulcanized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 1999
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: KITOSHI MEGURO
  • Patent number: 6322730
    Abstract: A method of repairing metal surfaces, in particular hydraulic cylinder interior walls and pistons, which are damaged by scoring, denting, grooving, etc. A catalytically hardened synthetic resin, preferably an epoxy, is mixed with a selected metal powder to form a mixture which, when hardened has a coefficient of thermal expansion substantially equal to that of the metal surface. A hardener is mixed with the filled resin and the damaged areas are filled with the mixture. The resin is cured, then dressed so that the damaged areas conform to adjacent undamaged surfaces. The repair area (and other surface areas, if desired) is then electroplated with a hoard, tough, wear-resistant metal, preferably by brush plating. The plated areas are then polished and the repaired article is ready for use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Inventor: William R. Wachtler
  • Patent number: 6318433
    Abstract: A pressure application device for applying pressure to a repair patch of a variable contoured aircraft surface, the pressure applicator device is provided with an inflatable pressure bladder. The bladder is configured for applying pressure to the repair patch and is formed of a generally fluid tight elastic material. The pressure applicator device is further provided with at least one variable direction adjustable arm. The arm is disposed in mechanical communication with the bladder for facilitating the application of pressure by the bladder to the repair path upon inflation of the bladder. The bladder is further provided with at least one suction device for providing suction attachment to the aircraft surface. The bladder is attachable to a respective one of the at least one variable direction adjustable arm. The arm facilitates selective attachment of the respective suction device to the variable contoured aircraft surface while maintaining the position of the bladder with respect to the repair path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Assignee: Northrop Grumman Corporation
    Inventors: Carl A. Reis, Nicholas Thomas Castellucci, John C. Del Ferraro
  • Patent number: 6309492
    Abstract: A method for coating laminate and composite wood products with a polymer coating. The method includes providing a wood substrate consisting of an engineered or composite wood product, applying a flowable but thixotropic polymer coating material to the surface of the substrate, distributing the polymer coating material evenly across the surface of the wood substrate to create a continuous smooth surface, and allowing the polymer coating material to bond to the surface of the wood substrate to form a hard smooth surface over the wood substrate surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Inventor: Marc A. Seidner
  • Patent number: 6309493
    Abstract: A method for filling cracks in concrete surfaces using a one-component, hydrophilic polyurethane prepolymer without the addition of any granular impregnating agents The prepolymer is provided in a hand-held aerosol container and is injected into the cracks through hollow injection ports that are adhered in place on the surfaces over the cracks and subsequently closed off when filled. The crack is filled from the bottom up to prevent the formation of air pockets in the crack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Assignee: Flexible Products Company
    Inventors: Robert Braun, Diana Dobrez-Florez, Jess Garcia, Deborah Schutter
  • Patent number: 6306781
    Abstract: An expansion joint patch apparatus for repairing failed or torn expansion joint belting having a substantially flat, woven substrate material, and a cured solution of suspended elastomer, coating the substrate material. The substrate material is selected from the group consisting of aramid, fiberglass, corrosion resistant alloy wire, polyester, ceramic and kevlar fabrics. The elastomer material is selected from the group consisting of chloroprene, chlorosulfonated polyethylene, ethylene propylene, chloronated isobutylene isoprene, fluoroelastomers and silicone rubbers. The invention further includes a method for forming a fluoroelastomer patch for repairing fabric expansion joints.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Assignee: Senior Investments AG
    Inventor: David F. McGrath
  • Patent number: 6302670
    Abstract: A windshield repair apparatus is provided which includes a bridge having a base member including an injection holder and a pivot support member pivotally connected to the base member. A suction cup is disposed for connection with the pivot support member for mounting the bridge to the windshield. A yoke extends upward from the suction cup to pivotally connect the suction cup to the pivot support member of the bridge. The yoke includes at least two side members which are adapted to receive the pivot support member of the bridge therebetween such that the bridge is permitted to pivot vertically about a pivot axis toward and away from the windshield and wherein the side members of the yoke prevent the pivot support member from rotating in a horizontal orientation substantially parallel to the windshield.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Assignee: TCG International Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan P. Thomas, Keith A. Beveridge, Paul S. Petersen, Jay L. Bickford
  • Patent number: 6302983
    Abstract: A method for renovation of pipelines, comprising introduction of lining layers into the existing pipeline, the lining layers corresponding in length to the length of the pipeline to be renovated. The lining layers consist of fusible polymers and are presurized and fused together by the introduction of a heat source into the inside of the innermost lining layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Assignee: Uponor Innovation AB
    Inventors: Lennart Agren, Arne Lund, Alan John Dickinson, Veli-Pekka Jormakka, Bo Mollsjo, Harri Leo, Jyri Jarvenkyla
  • Patent number: 6299714
    Abstract: A sealant application method for applying a first sealant as a preliminary sealant to a second sealant as a subsequent sealant, comprising the steps of subjecting a surface of the first sealant to an electric discharge treatment; and applying the second sealant directly to or through a primer to the first sealant after the electric discharge treatment. The first sealant preliminarily applied is first subjected to the electric discharge treatment to thereby reform the surface of the first sealant into an optimum-condition, thereby ensuring strong adhesion of the second sealant to the first sealant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Assignee: Bridgestone Corporation
    Inventors: Toshiki Takizawa, Shinji Saito
  • Patent number: 6299717
    Abstract: A method of renewing worn tread portions of reinforced rubber tracks which is particularly applicable to the heavy reinforced tracks used on mechanical diggers, mobile cranes and other vehicles, such method involving placing a previously buffed track circumferentially around a correspondingly dimensioned holding ring (4) so that the metal lugs (3) of the track are supported by the holding ring (4); inserting two correspondingly shaped rings (8), one on each side of the row of lugs (3), so as to conform to the space between the track and the holding ring; applying pre-vulcanized tread (5) to the track with a layer of unvulcanized rubber between the tread and the track; surrounding the thus-formed assembly with a generally airtight envelope; creating a vacuum within the envelope (9)and vulcanizing the said unvulcanized rubber so as to bond the tread (5)to the track (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Inventor: Peter Jan Kent
  • Patent number: 6296730
    Abstract: An adhesive and coating composition which is suitable for use in an aqueous environment is provided and which comprises a resin-plasticizer modified acrylonitrile-butadiene elastomer, dissolved in low-toxicity solvent. A method for repairing plastic sheet materials, particularly plastic sheet materials such as polyethylene (LDPE, MDPE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC),using the adhesive and coating composition wherein certain controls are effected is also provided. Such an adhesive composition provides a fast and extremely effective means for repairing perforations and tears in plastic sheet materials, is long lasting, safe and does not discolor over time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2001
    Assignee: Union Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventors: John H. Williams, Leonard Fahrer
  • Patent number: 6296006
    Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for sealing leaks in electrical insulators and other equipment without the need for depressurizing that equipment. The system and method may be readily adapted to seal any joint, regardless of its configuration. In addition, while the system and method provide an effective and sure seal, the seal may be readily removed in order to change out the leaking component at a future date. A tubular seal is maneuvered into position to encircle the leaking joint. A reinforcing layer is applied over the seal. The seal is then filled with sealant under pressure. The seal isolates the sealant and its direct hydraulic pressure from the operating components to prevent the sealant from contacting those components, while simultaneously providing sufficient force against the leaking joint to stop the leak.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2001
    Assignee: Koppl Company, Inc.
    Inventor: John W. Wegner
  • Patent number: 6295794
    Abstract: A composition of matter for joint or texture compound used in wallboard applications which incorporates an ingredient which has been reclaimed from waste wallboard panel. A method and system for reconstituting the waste wallboard into the joint compound is also provided. Waste wallboard is thereby recycled so that the waste wallboard does not need to be disposed in a landfill.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2001
    Assignee: Universal Forest Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Frank Juergen Nordt, Jason A. Everett, Duane L. Whipple, David E. Spring
  • Publication number: 20010021452
    Abstract: A pressure-sensitive adhesive sheets comprising a layer of a crosslinked pressure-sensitive adhesive, which is formed by an acrylic polymer made of a homopolymer or copolymer of a monomer containing a (meth)acrylate as a principal component, a silane coupling agent and a crosslinking agent, wherein a sol component of the crosslinked pressure-sensitive adhesive has a weight-average molecular weight of not less than 300,000 and a proportion of a low-molecular component having a molecular weight of not more than 100,000 in the sol component is not more than 15% by weight in the measurement of the molecular weight by the gel permeation chromatography method, which the sheet cause neither lifting nor formation of bubbles at the bonding interface even when exposed to severe conditions such as high temperature or high temperature and humidity in case a functional film is bonded/fixed to a display device, thus making it possible to maintain good appearance for a long period.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2001
    Publication date: September 13, 2001
    Inventors: Hiroaki Kishioka, Masahiro Ohura, Takao Yoshikawa
  • Patent number: 6287405
    Abstract: There is disclosed a method and composition for cosmetically repairing a surface void in polyolefin objects. The method involves inserting a repair composition into the void and then applying heat thereto to fuse the repair composition with a surrounding portion of the polyolefin object. The repair composition is a physical mixture of a thermoplastic powder, a resin binder, and a solvent, having a paste-like consistency. The repair composition may be neutral in color, or may contain a colorant to closely match the underlying object. The heating step can be performed with an open flame or with a heat gun.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Inventors: Michael J. Stevenson, Robert A. Reeves, Matthew Stevenson
  • Patent number: 6276401
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing metal or non-metal vessels, including straight and curved pipes and various pipe connections, such as T's, elbows, swages, etc., and pressure containing vessels such as tanks, with an external composite lining of a webbing of biaxial or triaxial weave preferably composed of fiberglass which is pre-impregnated with a high temperature heat curable polymer composition capable of being heat cured at a temperature range of from about 275° F. to about 375° F. The vessel is prepared for bonding by abrasive cleaning and by solvent cleaning. Metal imperfections are then filled with an epoxy. A small amount a quick setting epoxy is employed to attach one end of the web to the external surface of the vessel in oriented position for wrapping of the web in intimate surface-to-surface contact with the vessel. During wrapping only enough tension is applied to the pre-impregnated webbing to eliminate any wrinkles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2001
    Inventor: Fred D. Wilson
  • Patent number: 6270603
    Abstract: We control the cure temperature within ±15° F. (8° C.) for organic resin matrix composites with a thermal diffusion apparatus which contains a liquid fluid transfer medium to convey heat from an immersed resistance heater to the repair site. Uniform heating of the repair site occurs despite differences in the underlying structure of the repair site, such as the location of underlying spars or other structural features or variations in the skin thickness, because of natural convection within the heat transfer fluid. The fluid transfer medium preferably is a solid, at ambient temperature, but melts at a relatively low, elevated temperature below the cure temperature. We achieve uniform heating that is necessary for suitable repairs to temperatures of at least about 350° F. (177° C.) and simplify monitoring of the repair site temperatures because of the uniform heating we naturally achieve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Everett A. Westerman, Phillip E. Roll
  • Publication number: 20010008161
    Abstract: The present invention relates to on-site repairs of a composite structure (10) such as an aircraft structure in which a concave recess (14) is machined in the damaged zone, a non-polymerized composite part (16) is set into said recess and part (16) is polymerized under pressure using tooling (18) comprising a stack of plates (32) that increase the pressure applied to the composite part. The present invention thus obtains invisible repairs with mechanical characteristics that are similar to those of the initial structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventors: Fabienne Kociemba, Daniel Soro
  • Patent number: 6261396
    Abstract: The subject invention pertains to compositions comprising a rubber-like polymer and low boiling point alkanes which can be used to provide a flexible, durable, permanent repair for snags, holes, runs or ladders in hosiery such as pantyhose and nylon stockings. In a preferred embodiment, the rubber-like polymer is a gum-like residue obtained from drying commercial rubber cement adhesive. A composition comprising 2% weight to volume of this residue in an equal volume solvent system of pentane and hexane is applied to the snag and allowed to dry. When the repair is made while the stocking is being worn, a thin, transparent shield can be inserted between the stocking and the skin of the person wearing the stocking. The shield protects the skin from the composition yet does not adhere to the skin or stocking. The shield therefore can be easily removed after the composition is dry or can be left in place between the skin and the hosiery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Inventors: Ralph J. Fessenden, Patricia J. Jacobsen
  • Patent number: 6258193
    Abstract: Methods for fabricating laminations to form structural elements of predetermined shapes (120, 220, 420, 520, 620) are provided. Laminations include parts (22, 24) fabricated from the tread portion (42) of discarded rubber tires. The parts are typically arranged in layers with various relationships therebetween. The parts are pressed to remove all voids therebetween causing dynamic tension which creates rigidity and then bonded with methods including vulcanization, chemical vulcanization, epoxy and adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Assignee: Tire Recycling Development Corporation
    Inventor: Joseph H. Coffin
  • Patent number: 6254709
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a pipe liner bag which is composed of a tubular resin absorbent material having an outer surface covered with a highly air-tight plastic film and a hardenable resin impregnated in the tubular resin absorbent material. The method involves folding a strip-shaped resin absorbent material and aligning both ends thereof in the width direction, straight sewing overlapped portions to form a tubular resin absorbent material while leaving a sewing margin, turning the tubular resin absorbent material inside out such that a previous inner surface thereof appears outside, and welding or adhering a plastic film entirely or partially on the outer surface of the tubular resin absorbent material to air-tight seal the outer surface. The method can reduce a time required for a joining operation and simplifying a sealing operation after both ends of the strip-shaped resin absorbent material have been joined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Assignees: Shonan Gosei-Jushi Seisakusho K.K., Yokoshima & Company, GET Inc., OAR Company
    Inventors: Takao Kamiyama, Yasuhiro Yokoshima, Shigeru Endoh, Hiroyuki Aoki
  • Patent number: 6245169
    Abstract: A method of repairing an outer vinyl seat cover (14) having a tear (20) therein by spreading a liquid vinyl (21) over the outer surface of the vinyl seat cover (14) adjacent the cut (20) and into the area formed by the cut, and then applying a woven mesh patch (22) larger than the tear (20) onto the liquid vinyl (21) on the outer surface of the vinyl cover (14) over the tear (20). The mesh patch (22) and liquid vinyl (21) are heated by a propane torch to a temperature over at least about 1000 F. and preferably 1400 F. for curing. Next, a silicone graining pad (24) is pressed down against the patched area while the cured vinyl is hot. Additional layers of liquid vinyl are added to the patched area and cured to a temperature over about 1000 F. until the desired vinyl thickness is obtained. Then the patched area is spray painted while the patched area is at a temperature over about 500 F. to provide a color to the patched area similar to the color of the outer vinyl seat cover (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Assignee: National Guaranteed Vinyl
    Inventor: Douglas A. Young
  • Patent number: 6237305
    Abstract: A method for in-situ treatment of wood utility poles includes excavating an area around the base of a wood pole supported in the earth and drilling a plurality of holes in the wood pole for injecting an isophorone containing compounds thereinto. A preselected coating is used to coat a portion of the pole adjacent the excavated area with a preselected compound containing an isophorone solvent and then covering the coated portion of the pole with a covering wrap prior to refilling the excavated area around the wooden pole for treating the pole in-situ for preventing decay. The selected coating material can include an isophorone solvent formulated with a wax and an acrylic resin. The method also includes drilling any portion of a utility pole and injecting an isophorone compound thereinto to disperse the remaining creosote or pentachlorophenol in a treated utility pole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Inventor: Phillip G. Landers
  • Patent number: 6231949
    Abstract: An improved surface repair assembly for repairing a damaged portion of an exposed surface of is provided. The surface repair assembly includes a surface repair patch and a curable surface repair compound. The surface repair patch comprises a sheet which is formed from a plastically deformable inelastic polymeric material. The sheet has a plurality of openings which extend from the first side to the second side of the sheet. The openings are arranged about the sheet so that a network of strips of polymeric material is formed. Each of the strips is capable of being plastically deformed in any direction so that the sheet may be shaped to correspond to the contour of the surface being repaired. The sheet supports, positions, and reinforces the curable repair compound on the surface before the repair compound is cured. In one version of the invention, the second side of the repair patch includes an adhesive for affixing the patch to the surface to be repaired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2001
    Assignee: Pro Patch Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis Hoffmann, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6228197
    Abstract: A method is provided for attaching electronic components (12) onto a substrate (10) which allows quick, easy and inexpensive subsequent removal and re-attaching of the electronic component (12) to obtain an undamaged printed wiring board package. The method for attaching the electronic component (12) onto the substrate (10) includes bonding a component interlayer (18) onto the electronic component (12) with a component bonding layer (16), and forming an adhesive bond (14) between the component interlayer (18) and the substrate (10). If the removal of the electronic component (12) is needed, the electronic component (12) is removed from the substrate (10) by heating the component interlayer (18), thus melting the component bonding layer (16). If the re-attachment of the electronic component (12) is needed, the method for attaching the electronic component (12) onto the substrate (10) is repeated, using a new component interlayer (18).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: TRW Inc.
    Inventor: Ge Wang
  • Patent number: 6217688
    Abstract: A method of repairing a flanged pipe joint includes selecting a flexible sheet of material and mounting a tube through the selected material to form a passageway therethrough. One end of the mounted tube is positioned against a flanged pipe joint and the flexible sheet of material is wrapped around the pipe flange joint and attached thereto. A coating, such as an epoxy polymer, is coated over the wrapped flexible material extending over the flanged pipe joint and adjacent pipe, which coating is cured while any liquid leaking from the flanged pipe joint escapes through the tube. Once the coating is cured, the tube can be plugged by either removing the capped tube or injecting a material to seal the tube. The tube also has an end member shaped to fit over a flanged joint for positioning the pipe for drainage of material leaking from the flanged joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Inventor: Phillip G. Landers
  • Patent number: 6206067
    Abstract: The present invention relates to on-site repairs of a composite structure (10) such as an aircraft structure in which a concave recess (14) is machined in the damaged zone, a non-polymerized composite part (16) is set into said recess and part (16) is polymerized under pressure using tooling (18) comprising a stack of plates (32) that increase the pressure applied to the composite part. The present invention thus obtains invisible repairs with mechanical characteristics that are similar to those of the initial structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Aerospatiale Societe Nationale Industrielle
    Inventors: Fabienne Kociemba, Daniel Soro
  • Patent number: 6197461
    Abstract: Multiple-seam electrostatographic imaging member belts include two or more imaging member portions joined together by two or more seams. The belts can be formed from imaging member web that either includes or does not include an anti-curl backing layer, and that includes a charge transport layer that is substantially stress free.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Assignee: Xerox Corporation
    Inventors: Robert S. Foltz, Richard P. Millonzi, Robert C. U. Yu, John J. Darcy, Edouard E. Langlois
  • Patent number: 6190150
    Abstract: A windshield repair injector, to repair star, bulls-eye and elongated cracks in a laminated windshield. The device has a stepped threaded section for easy removal and installation. When the injector is placed against a glass surface, upward motion of a piston provides a vacuum in the piston chamber for removing moisture trapped in the damage region. Afterwards insertion of an optically clear resin, with an optical coefficient equal to glass is inserted under pressure, creating a permanent and virtually invisible repair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: Quick Fix Windshield Repair, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert A. Beveridge
  • Patent number: 6187374
    Abstract: A composition that can adhere to a substrate in an environment of hot water and soap includes: a. epoxy resin in an amount ranging from about 25.0 to about 60.0 parts by weight; b. acrylic resin in an amount ranging from about 5.00 to about 50.0 parts by weight; c. amine in an amount ranging from about 30.0 to about 45.0 parts by weight, wherein the amine is effective to crosslink the epoxy resin; and d. silane in an amount ranging from greater than 0 to about 10.0 parts by weight. Solvent may also be present in an amount ranging from 0 to 70.0% by weight based upon the total weight of the composition. The coating is applied to a substrate, such as those which have low surface tension and to which bonding is difficult. The substrate may be fastened to a construction material disposed in a sink, tub or shower area. The coating on at least a portion of the substrate is subjected to the environment of hot water and soap and adheres to the substrate despite exposure to the environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Assignee: XIM Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard D. Hardy, Juan E. Jarufe
  • Patent number: 6187124
    Abstract: A method of repairing a crack in a windshield where the crack has an open portion in which the repair resin selected for use is at minimum specified at 200 c.p.s.; and in another embodiment has a maximum of 1,000 c.p.s. and in another embodiment has a viscosity of over 1,000 c.p.s.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Inventor: Richard A. Campfield
  • Patent number: 6177189
    Abstract: Increasingly stringent environmental restrictions make it challenging to apply coatings (i.e., paint) by conventional processes like spray painting because of the volatile solvents and hazardous pigments. The environmental scrutiny is particularly focused upon conventional corrosion protection surface treatments, especially chromated primers and conversion coatings. We apply appliqu{acute over (e)}s to provide a vapor barrier over the substrate to provide corrosion protection. We can make curved appliqu{acute over (e)}s on a family of molds of different Gaussian curvature and thereby avoid making a “splash” mold of the surface of interest to create the appliqu{acute over (e)}s. Using curved appliqu{acute over (e)}s reduces ridges, creases, or gaps that sometimes otherwise occur with attempts to a cover a surface with complex curvature with flat (planar) appliqu{acute over (e)}s.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2001
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Diane C. Rawlings, Dennis L. Dull
  • Patent number: 6165302
    Abstract: Process for repairing plastic coatings of metal pipes, that allows the repairs to be done in a very short time, by applying, in specific operating phases, a polyolefin adhesive in powder form and polyolefin tapes, and then applying heat using an inert gas-shielded flame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Assignee: Montell North America Inc.
    Inventors: Roberto Marzola, Gian Luigi Rigosi
  • Patent number: 6162525
    Abstract: A drywall patch includes a substantially planar body having a peripheral edge. A depending skirt is spaced from the peripheral edge of the body. The depending skirt is extended into an opening in drywall to prevent lateral movement of the drywall patch during application.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Inventor: Ira Amy
  • Patent number: 6158473
    Abstract: A branch pipe liner bag immune to damage caused by a cutter is provided. In the branch pipe liner bag having a flange formed at an end of a hardenable resin impregnated bag which comprises a tubular resin-absorbent material impregnated with an unhardened liquid hardenable resin, a cylindrical anti-piercing protector 3 is embedded adjacent to the flange. According to a pipe lining method implemented using the branch pipe liner bag according to the present invention, the branch pipe liner bag adjacent to the flange is, after a branch pipe is lined, protected by the anti-piercing protector, and therefore, in a piercing work thereafter of a main pipe liner bag, the branch pipe liner bag is immune from damage caused by a cutter, thereby eliminating a problem such as infiltration of the underground water into the main pipe from a damaged portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Assignees: Shonan Gosei-Jushi Seisakusho K.K., Yokoshima & Company, GET INC., OAR Company
    Inventors: Takao Kamiyama, Yasuhiro Yokoshima, Shigeru Endoh, Hiroyuki Aoki
  • Patent number: 6156248
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for applying putty and filler material to fill a hole in a surface. The apparatus includes a transparent and flexible plastic template that is impervious to the solvents and chemicals used in construction and painting. The template has an aperture allowing for the insertion of filler material into a hole in a surface without allowing the filler material to come into contact with the surface itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Inventor: Larry H. Walling
  • Patent number: 6156142
    Abstract: A method of using repairing cracked or otherwise leaking polymer-modified asphalt-based containers for packaging asphalt. A strip of consumable adhesive tape is adhered to cover and seal the damaged portion of the container. Molten asphalt is then added to the repaired container. The molten asphalt is added to the container at a temperature that is below the melting temperature of the tape. Upon solidification of the asphalt in the repaired container, the entire asphalt package is melted prior to use in a melting apparatus, such as a gas-fired asphalt kettle melter. At the melter temperatures, the tape, container, and packaged asphalt melts or solubilizes in the melted mass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Assignee: Owens Corning Fiberglas Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Jorge A. Marzari
  • Patent number: 6156150
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for separating an IC component (1) from a board (3). The method includes the processes of positioning a tool (21) just above the IC component, thereafter moving the tool down into a specified position, making the tool cover the IC component that is mounted on the board via an adhesive material, solder, or paste, and separating the IC component from the board by turning the tool. Through these processes, the IC component can be separated with a relatively small force, so that cracking of the IC component and damage to the board can be suppressed to a minimum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kazuto Nishida
  • Patent number: 6149749
    Abstract: A patch of fibre reinforced plastics composite material, a repair kit including such a patch and a method of using such a patch and repair kit are provided. The patch (1) is for attachment to a surface (17) of a fibre reinforced plastics composite structure (11) over an area of damage (10) to the structure. The patch defines an outer surface (3), a bonding surface (4) opposed thereto and a peripheral edge. The patch includes fibre reinforcement and plastics matrix material with the latter being in a final state of hardness. The patch defines a series of small apertures (6) therethrough to allow the passage of gases and other matter through the patch to prevent entrapped air weakening the repair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: British Aerospace Public Limited Company
    Inventor: Geoffrey McBroom
  • Patent number: 6141513
    Abstract: A process cartridge including an electrophotographic photosensitive member, a process unit for operating on the electrophotographic photosensitive member, a plurality of engaging members provided at a first frame, and a plurality of engaging members provided at a second frame. The first frame and the second frame are connected by connecting respective engaging members selected from the plurality of engaging members provided at the first frame and engaging members selected from the plurality of engaging members provided at the second frame. The process cartridge is detachably mountable in an electrophotographic image forming apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tsutomu Nishiuwatoko, Kazuyoshi Odagawa, Hiroo Kobayashi, Shinichi Sasaki
  • Patent number: 6134776
    Abstract: A direct chip attach to heatsink structure is shown and described which implements rework when the chip must be removed and replaced. A laminated heatsink includes a metal heatsink with a foil layer adhered to the chip attachment surface with the assembly secured to a carrier at a cutout opening therein that defines the chip attach site. The adhesive, either a dry film adhesive or a pressure sensitive adhesive, secures foil layer to heatsink and provides the interface of separation when a chip must be removed and replaced. By peeling the foil away from the heatsink, the foil, chip and non-reworkable die attach adhesive are removed as a unit, leaving no chip attach adhesive residue at the attachment site to be scraped or abraded away. The replacement chip can be installed either by directly installing with new die attach adhesive or by first restoring the foil layer prior to chip installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventor: Mark Kenneth Hoffmeyer
  • Patent number: 6136121
    Abstract: A device for separating layers of laminate trim includes a pair of nip rollers defining a feed path for a laminate, at least two winders and a drive system for the winders. The winders are preferably arranged on an upstream side of the nip rollers. The device can be provided at the output of a lamination machine to receive longitudinal trim portions cut from a laminate being formed by the lamination machine, so as to provide continuous delamination of trim exiting the lamination machine. In the case of a three (or multiple) layer laminate, the device can include a third winder (or additional winders) for collecting a middle layer of the laminate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Chemical America, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Brandt Jones, Joseph J. Rudisi, Richard Neil Harford, John Paul Harvey, Janusz Doniewski
  • Patent number: 6136116
    Abstract: A system is provided for filling a gap between adjoining coplanar first and second sheet members mounted on an outer surface of a common substrate and having juxtaposed first and second edge surfaces. A permanent gap filler member of predetermined shape and size intended for eventual permanent reception in the gap is employed for partially filling the gap. A temporary gap filler tool which includes a substitute gap filler element having substantially the same predetermined size and shape of the permanent gap filler member, has an abutting surface for contiguous engagement with the first edge surface of the first sheet member when advanced to an attached position before the permanent gap filler member is mounted in the gap, a minor gap surface facing opposite said abutting surface, and means for releasably attaching the temporary gap filler tool to the first sheet member. A minor gap is thereby defined between the temporary gap filler element and the second edge surface of the second sheet member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: Northrop Grumman Corporation
    Inventors: Carl Andrew Reis, Robert Warner Koon
  • Patent number: 6124016
    Abstract: A composite connector comprising a plate having a plurality of perforations therethrough attached to a laminate surface with adhesive material, such as resin, and strips of fibrous laminae material, such as fiberglass, carbon or the like. The composite connector is useful for connecting a metallic object, such as a leg, brace, pole, wire or the like, to a laminate surface, such as a fiberglass tank. The composite connector allows the object to be removably connected to the laminate surface without damaging the integrity of the laminate surface. The composite connector is suitable for use with a variety of fibrous laminae and adhesives.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Inventor: Stuart L. Weil
  • Patent number: 6113820
    Abstract: A method of repairing polyethylene fuel containment sumps used in underground storage systems in gasoline and diesel service stations without "welding" the polyethylene, using suitable surface preparation, priming of the affected area, and sealing with a two part rubber compound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Assignee: BP Amoco Corporation
    Inventors: David Lyzinski, Albert J. Kovach, Paul A. Sivak, Charles M. Daul
  • Patent number: 6102105
    Abstract: A system for repairing leaks, cracks and crevices in a stator assembly of the type having a fluid cooling system. The system includes an anaerobically activated, liquid polymer curable sealant supply which is circulated through the fluid cooling system of the stator assembly. Sealant connectors place the sealant supply in fluid communication with the cooling system and a pump circulates the curable sealant supply through the cooling system to repair the leaks, cracks and crevices in the stator assembly. In the preferred embodiment, a secondary curing system provides an initial curing of the curable sealant to form a protective "skin" after the removal of the excess curable sealant from the fluid cooling system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Assignee: Framatome Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas E. Moran, Bruce William Schafer, Richard J. Fiola, Stanley Mark Gryder
  • Patent number: 6099671
    Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a method for adhering a first ceramic foam to a second ceramic foam. The method begins with impregnating a liquid resin with reinforcement fibers to form a liquid reinforced bonding resin. The liquid reinforced bonding resin is then applied to at least one of the ceramic foams. The foams are joined to each other with the liquid reinforced bonding resin disposed therebetween. The liquid reinforced bonding resin is cured to form a solid reinforced bonding resin. The solid reinforced bonding resin is pyrolyzed for adhering the first and second ceramic foams to form a ceramic bonding layer. The ceramic bonding layer is characterized by a porous ceramic matrix with reinforcement fibers disposed therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: Northrop Grumman Corporation
    Inventors: William Robert Pearson, David Eric Daws
  • Patent number: 6090233
    Abstract: An irrigation hose splice and method of making the same that permits used irrigation hose to be reinstalled and retrieved in the same manner as new irrigation hose. The method of splicing includes providing two segments of unjoined irrigation hose. Inserting a heat shield into a first segment to prevent its inner circumferential surface from fusing together when the first hose segment is later fused with a second hose segment. Inserting the first hose segment into the second hose segment, creating an area where the two segments overlap. Appyling heat and compression simultaneously at the overlapping area to fuse together the first and second hose segments, creating an irrigation hose splice which is composed of material from the first hose segment and the second hose segment that have been fused together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Assignee: Drip Tape Manufacturers & Engineers, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel W. C. Delmer