Utilizing Sheet-like Material Patents (Class 264/316)
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Patent number: 5945053Abstract: An extruded-in fabric hinge comprised of a fabric hinge member extruded-in with a first member and a second member such that at least some of the fibers of the fabric hinge member are embedded within the first and second members. An extruder apparatus with an extrusion cavity comprised of a first surface with a first adjustable mandrel, a second surface, a third surface, and a fourth surface integrated to form the extrusion cavity is used to make the extruded-in fabric hinge. A fabric hinge member is captured between the first adjustable mandrel and the second surface, and an extrusion material is extruded through an extrusion inlet of the extruder apparatus and into the extrusion cavity. The extrusion material integrates with the fabric hinge member such that at least some of the fibers of the fabric hinge member are embedded into the first and second members of the extruded-in fabric hinge.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 1998Date of Patent: August 31, 1999Inventor: Siebolt Hettinga
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Patent number: 5935613Abstract: Apparatus (10) is disclosed including first and second forming rollers (18, 21) which rotatably abut with an anvil roller (20). The forming rollers (18, 21) each include a periphery forming a continuous forming surface including a plurality of axially and circumferentially spaced grooves (24) each formed as a continuous depression arranged in a serpentine and non-intersecting manner. Food (14) is simultaneously fed between a continuous strip of support material (16) and a continuous ribbon of film material (66) as they pass between a first abutment nip of the first forming roller (18) and the anvil roller (20). After extending partially around the periphery of the first forming roller (18), the materials (16, 66) and the food therebetween pass around an adjustable idler roller (70) to between a second abutment nip of the second forming roller (21) and the anvil roller (20).Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 1998Date of Patent: August 10, 1999Assignee: General Mills, Inc.Inventors: Richard O. Benham, Sheryl S. Brunken, Robert C. Dechaine, Timothy J. Gluszak, Rene K. Smethers, Craig E. Zimmermann
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Patent number: 5927044Abstract: A panel configuration and manufacturing technique are disclosed. The panel simulates a number of shingles each having a hollow end portion. Several of these panels may be utilized to provide an exterior building covering. When installed, hollow end portions of adjacent panels overlap to provide a leak resistant, realistic appearing covering. A number of panels may be formed by positioning each of a number of regions of a web of polymeric resin between a mold and a plug. Each of the regions is molded while in a ductile state to form a corresponding one of the multi-shingle panels. An undercut portion is formed in each of the regions during molding to define an end portion of the panel. This formation includes moving the plug relative to the mold. The sheet is cut after molding to separate the panels from the web.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 1997Date of Patent: July 27, 1999Assignee: American Sheet Extrusion CorporationInventors: Jerry A. Lamb, deceased, Kenneth Hedges, James R. Rahn
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Patent number: 5928597Abstract: A method of thermoforming sheet articles includes: a) heating a sheet article to be thermoformed; b) inserting the heated sheet article into a pressure vessel having first and second vessel halves, wherein each vessel half includes a liquid chamber and a thin shell configured for forming the sheet article to a desired shape; c) closing the pressure vessels such that the sheet article is captured between the thin shells; and d) providing liquid of equal pressure in each liquid chamber to force the thin shells together to form the sheet article to the desired shape and to draw heat away from the thin shells for cooling the sheet article.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 1997Date of Patent: July 27, 1999Assignee: Lear CorporationInventor: Jack M. Van Ert
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Patent number: 5891483Abstract: The automatic molding machine of the present invention comprises: molding dies; a press mechanism to which the molding dies are attached, the press mechanism clamping and molding a work piece which is set in the molding die; a film feeding mechanism linking with molding action of the press mechanism, the film feeding mechanism feeding release film, which is formed into a long belt form, prescribed length so as to correspond a setting position of the work piece, which is set in the molding die; and a conveying mechanism linking with the molding action of the press mechanism, the conveying mechanism feeding the work piece and resin for molding into the molding die and taking out a molded product therefrom, wherein the work piece is molded by the molding dies whose molding sections are covered with the release film.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 1996Date of Patent: April 6, 1999Assignee: Apic Yamada Corp.Inventor: Fumio Miyajima
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Patent number: 5876654Abstract: A method of shaping a layer of settable material such as honeycomb core (24) including placing the core on a flexible support (38); translating the flexible support (38) and core into an oven (28); heating the core to a desired forming temperature in the oven; translating the flexible support (38) and core (24) horizontally from the oven into a forming area (26); lowering a contoured upper die (32) onto the core (24); tensioning the flexible support (38); pressing the core between the tensioned flexible support and the upper die so that the core (24) is forced to conform to the shape of the die (32); cooling the core to set temperature; and raising the die (32) to remove the finished shaped core, is provided.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 1997Date of Patent: March 2, 1999Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Bradley J. Blonigen, William T. Ross
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Patent number: 5874037Abstract: Apparatus, method and sealing means for liquid urethane reaction mixture injection molding of a composite styled metal and plastic vehicle wheel wherein a metal wheel subassembly serves as a preform between the separable mold parts in the mold apparatus and which is united with the plastic body molding material to form the composite wheel. One of the mold parts has a mold cavity surface operable in mold closed condition to define with the outboard face of the wheel subassembly a mold cavity adapted to provide an ornamental configuration for an outboard face of the plastic body of the composite wheel. A gas permeable and liquid infiltratable mold sealing membrane has a first portion thereof communicating with ambient atmosphere externally of the mold cavity and a second portion thereof communicating with the mold cavity.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 1995Date of Patent: February 23, 1999Assignee: Motor Wheel CorporationInventors: Ronald P. Saia, Paul N. Skotynsky
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Patent number: 5863451Abstract: A method is provided for constructing a snow shelter. A set of fabric panels is connected together to provide a short skirt into which snow is filled throughout and compacted on the periphery. Panels are then connected to a higher level and additional snow is filled in throughout and compacted on the periphery. When the panels have been completely connected and filled with snow, they encompass a snow dome packed around the surface. The panels may then be removed and the dome hollowed out to provide a snow shelter. The hollowing out process may be guided through the use of probes that are pressed into the dome from the outside to provide a depth gauge. A closeable door may also be installed against the dome opening after the dome is constructed.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 1997Date of Patent: January 26, 1999Assignee: Norquest Innovation CorporationInventor: Randall W. Buhler
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Patent number: 5833907Abstract: A patterned shaped article is produced on a given surface by a method including the steps of disposing a partition body on the given surface, temporarily fixing a plurality of cut pattern pieces to the upper surface of the partition body or the upper surface of a mesh member disposed on the partition body so that the cut pattern pieces are disposed adjacent to each other to constitute a pattern to be formed, unfixing one of the cut pattern pieces from a portion of the upper surface to which a pattern-course material is to be supplied, supplying the pattern course material to the portion, repeating the unfixing and supplying steps until the partition body is filled with a prescribed amount of pattern-course materials, removing the partition body alone or together with the mesh member from the pattern-course materials, and allowing the pattern-course materials to set into the patterned shaped article on the given surface.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 1997Date of Patent: November 10, 1998Assignee: CCA Inc.Inventors: Hiroshi Uchida, Mituhiro Onuki, Hideo Watanabe
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Patent number: 5824252Abstract: A method and apparatus for resin molding upon an insert-member. The molding machine includes an upper die and a lower die, a cavity in at least one of the dies, a pot in which resin is introduced, and a resin path which allows the resin to flow from the pot into the cavity and onto the insert-member set in the dies. A film member is set between a parting face of the die and the insert-member. The film member covers a part of the insert-member corresponding to the resin path. An edge of the film member coincides with at least one of side edges of the cavity. The insert-member is clamped by the dies together with the film member when molding occurs.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 1996Date of Patent: October 20, 1998Assignee: Apic Yamada CorporationInventor: Fumio Miyajima
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Patent number: 5824255Abstract: A process of forming and shaping a preheated workpiece made of honeycomb core material using a press including complementary male and female dies. The first step of the process is providing a carrier sheet for supporting the workpiece. The carrier sheet is suspended over the female die by two shafts supported by support towers. The next step is loading the preheated workpiece onto the carrier sheet. The next step is applying rotational torque to each of the two shafts whereby the carrier sheet is wrapped around the said shafts thereby applying tension to the carrier sheet and pulling the shafts toward each other and into pressing contact with the sides of the workpiece while said carrier sheet means supports the bottom surface of said workpiece.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 1996Date of Patent: October 20, 1998Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: William T. Ross, Bradley J. Blonigen
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Patent number: 5814260Abstract: A method of casting-masking-molding a thermoplastic resin product, includes the steps of placing a molding sheet 1 on an upper surface of a heated table plate 4, the molding sheet including a molding die 2, and a mask 3 including a plurality of mask constituting pieces 3a, 3b, 3c, ...Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 1996Date of Patent: September 29, 1998Inventor: Takeshi Arai
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Patent number: 5814262Abstract: Thin inorganic sintered structures having strength and flexibility sufficient to permit bending without breakage in at least one direction to a radius of curvature of less than 20 centimeters, methods for making them, and products incorporating them, are described. Preferred sintered ceramic structures according to the invention can comprise zirconias, titanias, aluminas, silicas, rare earth metal oxides, alkaline oxides, alkaline earth metal oxides and first, second, and third transition series metal oxides and combinations thereof and therebetween. Sintered metal structures can also be provided.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 1992Date of Patent: September 29, 1998Assignee: Corning IncorporatedInventors: Thomas D. Ketcham, Wayne B. Sanderson, deceased, by Stuart R. Sanderson, administrator, Dell J. St. Julien, Kathleen A. Wexell
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Patent number: 5807593Abstract: A process and method for manufacturing fiber reinforced composite structures without trapping volatiles in the resin matrix. Volatiles from the curing cycle are absorbed into a silicone rubber layer,and a gas impermeable barrier layer outside the silicone rubber layer prevents autoclave atmosphere from permeating into the part. The process is to layer the finished ply build-up, with a ply of FEP (fluorinated ethylene propylene), a layer of silicone rubber to absorb the volatiles, and a layer of impermeable elastomer. The layer of fluoroelastomer is bonded to the silicone rubber to form a reusable, impermeable elastomeric vacuum bag, eliminating the need for disposable edge and surface breathers.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 1996Date of Patent: September 15, 1998Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: Michael P. Thompson
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Patent number: 5800841Abstract: A method of resin molding for molding regular products and a resin molding machine for the same. In the method of the present invention, release film, which is capable of easily peeling off from molding dies and resin, is provided on faces of the molding dies. A member to be molded by the molding dies is clamped together with the release film. An inner face of a pot of the molding die is covered with the release film. A resin tablet is supplied into the pot.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 1995Date of Patent: September 1, 1998Assignee: Apic Yamada CorporationInventor: Fumio Miyajima
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Patent number: 5798110Abstract: Process for moulding a make-up composition in a mould comprising a concave moulding surface forming the base of the mould and a bottom forming the upper component of the mould and closing off the space bounded by the said moulding surface, the composition being cast in the said mould in fluid form and subsequently solidifying to form a demouldable solid product capable of being packaged, in which the said composition is cast in a mould (1) whose bottom consists at least partly of a sheet (2) of open-cell plastic foam, so as partly to impregnate the said foam sheet (2) with the said composition and in which, after solidifying of the said composition, a moulded product consisting of the solidified composition and of the foam sheet which is bonded to it and which forms its support, is demoulded by removing the moulding surface (1).Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 1997Date of Patent: August 25, 1998Assignee: L'OrealInventor: Gerard Joulia
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Patent number: 5780074Abstract: A method of shaping a layer of settable material such as honeycomb core (24) including placing the core on a flexible support (38); translating the flexible support (38) and core into an oven (28); heating the core to a desired forming temperature in the oven; translating the flexible support (38) and core (24) horizontally from the oven into a forming area (26); lowering a contoured upper die (32) onto the core (24); tensioning the flexible support (38); pressing the core between the tensioned flexible support and the upper die so that the core (24) is forced to conform to the shape of the die (32); cooling the core to set temperature; and raising the die (32) to remove the finished shaped core, is provided.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 1995Date of Patent: July 14, 1998Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Bradley J. Blonigen, William T. Ross
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Patent number: 5772950Abstract: A composite hot drape vacuum forming method and apparatus. The apparatus includes an elongate vacuum chamber (12) having a lid (14) and a housing (16). An inflatable seal (26) is disposed between the lid (14) and the housing (16). Inflation of the inflatable seal (26) creates on airtight vacuum chamber. A heating blanket (36) is located in the bottom of the vacuum chamber (12). An inflatable bladder (28) is located on top of the heating blanket and extends approximately over the length of the vacuum chamber. The interior of the inflatable bladder is in fluid connection with the exterior of the vacuum chamber. Composite charges (40) are placed within the vacuum chamber on top of the vacuum bladder (28). Lay-up mandrels (42) are placed on top of the unformed composite charges and the vacuum chamber is closed and sealed. The composite charges (40) are heated using the heating blanket (36). The interior of the vacuum chamber is then evacuated.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 1994Date of Patent: June 30, 1998Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Val G. Brustad, David L. Hoshor, Donald A. Jensen, Andrew E. Modin
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Patent number: 5770243Abstract: An apparatus for forming composite articles which include the stretchable or pre-shaped membrane adapted to be placed on a mold in a ridged framework carrying an outer seal. An inner seal is attached to the membrane and located between the membrane and the inner side of the rigid framework defining a vacuum cavity. The membrane is attached to the seal at the lower most point thereof. The seals are substantially square in section and have cut-out sections to enhance resilience. The seals have a outwardly directed downwardly extended curtain portion to form a initial loose seal with a mold base.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 1995Date of Patent: June 23, 1998Assignee: Launchfirm Ltd.Inventor: Peter Butterworth
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Patent number: 5766728Abstract: The invention relates to a method of patterning a concrete surface and a pattern transfer mat for use in the method. The pattern transfer mat has a transfer surface having three-dimensional irregularities and carrying a multiplicity of grains to be transferred to the substrate concrete. Concrete is cast against the transfer surface of the mat and cured in situ and the mat is then detached. The aesthetic grains are grains having a cement powder deposited thereon beforehand. The cement powder absorbs water to cause fine air cells therein to collapse. Thus, the finished surface of the case concrete structure is made smoother.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 1994Date of Patent: June 16, 1998Assignee: Tokai Rubber Industries, Ltd.Inventor: Nobuo Iwaya
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Patent number: 5766774Abstract: A molded core component includes a center plane piece and at least one wall extending from the center plane piece. The wall preferably includes contours which form a multiplicity of pods, cells, or protrusions integral with the center plane piece. The core component is preferably inserted into the space or void formed by two prefabricated molded fiberboard doorskins, wherein the center plane piece lies substantially in the central plane of the door product. Processes for the production of a molded core component and a composite door product are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 1994Date of Patent: June 16, 1998Assignee: Masonite CorporationInventors: Steven K. Lynch, Mark A. Ruggie, William P. Hoel
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Patent number: 5702663Abstract: An vacuum bag for forming of a fiber reinforced composite article, made of a curable elastomer, having molded in resin distribution means. Optional vacuum conduits are molded into the periphery of the bag, causing the bag to be adapted to any number of mold shapes. The bag contains a resin distribution conduit sealed into the vacuum bag. A multiplicity of cross channels are formed on the inner surface of the bag, covering most of the area under which the fiber lay up is placed within the mold. These cross channels can be formed from a pattern of multiple, variegated small dots or pentagons, which, under vacuum, leave a multiplicity of small crisscross channels running along the inner surface of the vacuum bag. This pattern of distribution channels covers most of the fiber lay up, except for a perimeter area which insures resin flow into rather than across the fiber lay up.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 1996Date of Patent: December 30, 1997Assignee: Scrimp Systems, LLCInventor: William Seemann
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Patent number: 5698154Abstract: In charging a fluid molding material in an elastic molding die composed of a die body having an opening and a die support portion extending from the opening to the outside by pouring the molding material from the opening into time die body, the molding material in an amount of 1/5 to 3/5 of a volume of the die body is first charged, a molding material-charged portion of the die body is then crumpled or pinched, and then the entire die body is filled up with the molding material. The crumpling or pinching operation is achieved by such means as a blade shutter, pressing plates, air bags, or passing between two plates or conveyor belts, thereby charging the fluid molding material in the die body of the elastic-molding die without occurrence of air voids.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 1996Date of Patent: December 16, 1997Assignees: Asahi Denka Kogyo Kabushikikaisya, Okamoto Industries, Inc.Inventors: Hiroshige Kohno, Satoru Hamada, Osamu Tsuchiya, Akinori Watanabe, Itaru Horiguchi, Atsushi Sato
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Patent number: 5665301Abstract: A unitary vacuum bag for forming of a fiber reinforced composite article, made of a fabric mesh reinforced curable elastomer, having a smooth surface on both sides. The bag is constructed upon the surface of the article which is to be reproduced and upon a planar flange extension of the mold for said article. A rigid vacuum chamber assembly consisting of a planar fiber reinforced composite or equivalent sheet is sealed on the outer periphery to the mold flange extension and on the inner periphery to the top surface of the bag by rubber seals which are attached to the vacuum chamber assembly under surface. A vacuum port through the vacuum chamber assembly between the rubber seals allows vacuum to be applied to the chamber causing it to be pressed by atmospheric pressure to the mold flange extension and bag periphery thus sealing the bag to the mold periphery and simultaneously providing a continuous vacuum source around the entire periphery of the bag.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 1995Date of Patent: September 9, 1997Assignee: Arctek Inc.Inventor: John Sulo Matias Alanko
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Patent number: 5665292Abstract: A solid o/w-type cosmetic composition, a process for molding it, and a container used for aqueous-type solid cosmetics. The cosmetic composition comprises (a) a water-soluble solidifying agent selected from agar and gelatin, (b) an oil component and (c) water, and optionally, (d) a powder or (e) a water-soluble adhesive. The composition has superior characteristics inherent in an o/w-type cosmetic, while providing excellent usability and portability. The molding process comprises applying a water-carrying sheet material to the surface of the composition before solidification and releasing it after solidification. The container for an aqueous-type solid cosmetic composition is characterized by having a water-absorbing material secured to a receptacle of the container.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 1995Date of Patent: September 9, 1997Assignee: Kose CorporationInventors: Yoichiro Tanaka, Kazuo Suzuki
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Patent number: 5648107Abstract: A porous film manufacturing apparatus regularly forms a large number of non-through pores with a fine opening width of sub-.mu.m to several tens .mu.m at a high density in elongated films made of various materials, with almost no deterioration in the essential characteristics of the film materials.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 1994Date of Patent: July 15, 1997Assignee: Seiji KagawaInventors: Seiji Kagawa, Yoichiro Kagawa
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Patent number: 5641449Abstract: Methods and apparatus for rapidly drying and compacting wet fiber mats are disclosed. Rapid drying is produced by heating the wet fiber mats with a combination of radiowave energy and conductive heating. As the fiber mats are heated, three-dimensional compacting forces are applied by pressing the fiber mats between a flat surface press and a porous support on which is mounted a resilient mold insert. At high radio frequencies in the microwave range, power is transmitted from a multimode cavity through the porous support and resilient mold insert to the fiber mat. At low radio frequencies, differential radio-frequency voltages are applied directly to metal press plates which contain and compact the fiber mat. Methods and apparatus can be adapted to conveyorized or multi-opening press operations. Objects suitable for use with the invention are most commonly characterized by having a flat face surface on one side and webs or other features which may extend normal or generally normal to the flat surface.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 1995Date of Patent: June 24, 1997Inventor: Thomas L. Owens
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Patent number: 5639536Abstract: An in-mold molded product includes a molded plastic member having projections and recesses on a surface thereof and a transfer layer provided on such surface. The outer surface of the transfer layer has a contour corresponding to the projections and recesses of the plastic member and additionally has projections and recesses that are finer than those on the surface of the plastic molded member. Thus, the finished product has a matte surface with good wear characteristics. The product is molded by arranging a mat transfer member at a predetermined region of a cavity of a mold unit, the mat transfer member having the fine projections and recesses on one surface thereof, and a portion of the mold unit defining the cavity having, at the predetermined region, projections and recesses which are larger in size than those of the mat transfer member.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 1994Date of Patent: June 17, 1997Assignee: Nissha Printing Co., Ltd.Inventors: Seiichi Yamazaki, Naoto Toyooka
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Patent number: 5637272Abstract: A method of manufacturing a multi-holed plate made of a composite material wherein a molding resin is filled, with a resin membrane being applied inbetween, in the previously prepared holes of a raw forming element of the composite material and the raw forming element of the composite material is hardened by heat and pressure.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 1995Date of Patent: June 10, 1997Assignee: Mitsubishi Jukogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Tetsuya Yamamoto, Shigeru Nishiyama, Kouichi Saito
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Patent number: 5612116Abstract: A decorative sheet for construction is disclosed. The decorative sheet for construction comprises a thermoplastic polyester resin foam forming a surface layer, a large number of inorganic aggregates scattered over the surface of the foam in the presence of an adhesive, said inorganic aggregates forming a decorative face layer by the medium of the adhesive, and a backing layer formed on the decorative face layer. The decorative sheet of the present invention enables its decorative face layer with a backing layer to be reliably and readily transferred to the surface of concrete construction or products, and yet which enables a foam layer as a protective layer for the decorative face layer with a backing layer to be readily removed after application. A decorative concrete product for construction using the same, and processes for preparing them are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 1996Date of Patent: March 18, 1997Assignees: Sekisui Kaseihin Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha, Nippon Preston Kabushiki Kaisha, Eslen Chemical Co., Ltd.Inventors: Chitoshi Jinno, Hiroyuki Toyohara, Hikaru Mimura, Takashi Murohashi
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Patent number: 5603878Abstract: A decorative sheet for construction is disclosed. The decorative sheet for construction comprises a thermoplastic polyester resin foam forming a surface layer, a large number of inorganic aggregates scattered over the surface of the foam in the presence of an adhesive, said inorganic aggregates forming a decorative face layer by the medium of the adhesive, and a backing layer formed on the decorative face layer. The decorative sheet of the present invention enablesits decorative face layer with a backing layer to be reliably and readily transferred to the surface of concrete construction or products, and yet which enables a foam layer as a protective layer for the decorative face layer with a backing layer to be readily removed after application. A decorative concrete product for construction using the same, and processes forpreparing them are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 1995Date of Patent: February 18, 1997Assignees: Sekisui Kaseihin Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha, Nippon Preston Kabushiki Kaisha, Eslen Chemical Co., Ltd.Inventors: Chitoshi Jinno, Hiroyuki Toyohara, Hikaru Mimura, Takashi Murohashi
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Patent number: 5593633Abstract: A novel method of forming high strength, fiber reinforced, high temperature thermoplastic panels is provided which entails placing at least one layer of metal mesh or screen adjacent the vacuum probes in a vacuum bagging apparatus. Additionally, caul plates are placed as needed around the thermoplastic workpiece and metal mesh is positioned on the plates to promote uniform vacuum drawing on the entire panel and complete consolidation.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 1990Date of Patent: January 14, 1997Inventors: Kenneth M. Dull, Terry L. Schneider
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Patent number: 5585062Abstract: A process for producing a cylindrical product of a fiber reinforcement-thermoplastic resin composite, which involves disposing a mandrel on a flexible guide sheet which can be formed in the shape of the letter U around the mandrel, heating a fiber reinforcement-thermoplastic resin composite sheet to a temperature not lower than the distortion temperature of the resin and lower than the thermal degradation temperature of the resin of the composite, disposing an end of the heated composite sheet at a line of contact of the mandrel with the flexible guide sheet, then rolling the mandrel on the guide sheet while moving the guide sheet, the guide sheet forming a shape of the letter U around the mandrel being drawn into the concave portion of the letter U, and the composite sheet disposed between the mandrel and the guide sheet being in intimate contact with the mandrel and the guide sheet, to thereby wind the composite sheet on the mandrel, and then recovering a cylindrical product made from the wound composite shType: GrantFiled: December 29, 1994Date of Patent: December 17, 1996Assignee: Toho Rayon Co., Ltd.Inventors: Teruaki Muramatsu, Yoshihiro Endo
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Patent number: 5576030Abstract: The invention is an apparatus for forming fiber reinforced resin structures In detail, invention includes a fluid impervious outer first sheet. A mold surface is includes upon which can be supported a lay-up of at least one layer of fibrous material, and over which can be placed the first fluid impervious outer sheet and its edges marginally sealed upon the mold surface to form a chamber. A first vacuum port for drawing a vacuum upon the chamber is located in proximity to the lay-up. A first distribution medium is positioned between the fabric lay-up and the fluid impervious outer sheet for distributing resin into the lay-up. A second fluid impervious sheet is located between the first distribution medium and the first impervious sheet. A resin inlet port extends from the exterior of the chamber through the first and second impervious sheets an is in communication with the first distribution medium.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 1995Date of Patent: November 19, 1996Assignee: Lockheed CorporationInventor: James R. Hooper
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Patent number: 5543234Abstract: A molded wood composite article man-made from wood fibers or wood particles on at least an upper, molded surface of the article, and a method of manufacturing the article to include a relatively uniform density, detailed design contours and textured aesthetics on one or more molded depression-interior inclined surfaces, while preventing embrittlement, softness and blistering of the article along the depression-interior inclined surfaces. These attributes are achieved by molding one or more depressions into an initially planar layer of cellulosic material, wherein the molded depressions have one or more inclined walls that have upper surfaces, along essentially an entire inclined span, that include detailed design contours, including adjacent curved and planar portions, e.g., bead and cove.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 1994Date of Patent: August 6, 1996Assignee: Masonite CorporationInventors: Steven K. Lynch, Mark A. Ruggie, William E. Rinker, David G. Izard, William J. Young
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Patent number: 5529480Abstract: A portable version of a honeycomb core forming restricter (20) for forming and shaping a workpiece made of stiff honeycomb core material, the apparatus (20) to be used in combination with a press including a male die (70) and a female die (72), the apparatus (20) including: (a) a base plate (62); (b) four support tower assemblies (24a, 24b, 24c, 24d) supported by the base plate (62); (c) two shafts (22a, 22b) supported by the support tower assemblies (24a, 24b, 24c, 24d), the shafts (2a, 22b) being arranged in a generally parallel relationship to each other and to the longitudinal axis of the female die 72; (d) a carrier sheet (74) for supporting the workpiece, the carrier sheet (74) being attached to the two shafts (22a, 22b); (e) four air motors (26a, 26b, 26c, 26d) for applying rotational torque to the shafts ( 22a, 22b); and (f) the support tower assemblies including a double acting air cylinder (36a) for moving the shaft (22a) in a transverse direction with respect to the longitudinal axis of the femaleType: GrantFiled: October 28, 1994Date of Patent: June 25, 1996Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: William T. Ross, Bradley J. Blonigen
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Patent number: 5510077Abstract: An intraluminal stent comprising fibrin treatment of restenosis is provided by a two stage molding process.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 1994Date of Patent: April 23, 1996Inventors: Thomas Q. Dinh, Ronald J. Tuch, Michael Dror
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Patent number: 5501832Abstract: The invention provides a method of moulding a reinforced structure for use in a subsequent moulding operation to form a moulded article, comprising the steps of heating a fibrous mat (10) formed from fibres held together by a thermoformable binder while between the parts (11) and (12) of a mould tool which parts (11) and (12) are pre-coated with a release agents; bringing the parts of the mould together using a vacuum with the mat (10) between them; allowing the mould tool, with the fibrous mat (10) therein to cool and removing the moulded reinforcing structure thus formed from the mould tool. The parts (11) and (12) of the mould are brought together by placing them in a vacuum forming table (14) and then evacuating the volume enclosed between the sheet (10) spanning the frame (15) and the lower part (13) of the table (14) when both are brought into contact.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 1994Date of Patent: March 26, 1996Assignee: Group Lotus LimitedInventor: Alfred A. Adams
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Patent number: 5496511Abstract: Lampshades are formed by fitting a lampshade blank on a mandrel of complementary shape, which mandrel also supports upper and lower metal hoops to be incorporated into the lampshade. The edges of the lampshade blank are then locally heated and deformed to surround the metal hoops. The deformation of the heated edges of the lampshade blank may advantageously be effected by surrounding the lampshade/mandrel assembly with a membrane, and forcing the membrane into contact with the assembly.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 1993Date of Patent: March 5, 1996Assignee: CorepInventor: Hubert Juillet
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Patent number: 5484277Abstract: A tool for fabricating fiber reinforced resin matrix composite structures having molded outside surfaces with intermittent molded inside surfaces e.g. aircraft skin with internal stiffeners. The tool employs a hybrid vacuum bag with soft portions in combination with rigid portions to produce the internal stiffeners. The stiffeners are supported and shaped during curing by pressurized elastomeric tubes, in lieu of mandrels, which can be easily removed when collapsed. The stiffeners and skin can be made from wet lay-ups or prepregs, formed in place or preformed, and in combinations where one part is precured or both parts are co-cured.Type: GrantFiled: December 26, 1989Date of Patent: January 16, 1996Assignee: McDonnell Douglas CorporationInventor: William E. Lindsay
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Patent number: 5439631Abstract: A process for manufacturing a sheet of grid-patterned membrane for use in vacuum bagging processes which includes the steps of selecting equal size sheets of open weave mesh material, elastomeric material, and separator material. The sheet of elastomeric material is aligned over the sheet of mesh material while the sheet of separator material is aligned over the opposite side of the mesh material and then tightly wound onto a drum to create a continuous roll structure. The continuous roll structure is then autoclaved with sufficient pressure and temperature until the elastomeric material partially extrudes through the openings on the sheet of mesh material and makes contacts with the sheet of separator material to create a well defined grid pattern on one surface of the sheet of elastomeric material. After curing, the sheets of mesh material and separator material are separated to produce a sheet of grid-patterned membrane which may be cut to any desired size.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 1994Date of Patent: August 8, 1995Inventors: Paul R. Schneider, Gregory L. Lindstrom
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Patent number: 5407610Abstract: In a method for molding a sheet which includes thermosetting resin materials reinforced with glass fiber or carbon fiber, the sheet includes a covering film always existing in a side which is not in contact with a mold face and, when the sheet and covering film are shaped along a mold face and the sheet is thermally cured, apparatus for dealing with an accidental breakage of the covering film is arranged on the side of the sheet which is covered by said covering film.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 1993Date of Patent: April 18, 1995Assignees: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha, Nippon Shokubai Kagaku Kogyo Co., Ltd.Inventors: Katsumi Kohama, Hiromi Tanaka, Ryoichi Yugami, Tomohisa Abe, Daisuke Atobe, Hidemitsu Takizawa, Kenichi Ueda, Yuji Inagaki
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Patent number: 5407627Abstract: This invention is directed to a novel method and apparatus for casting stress-free thermosetting resin materials. A process for forming a thermosetting product which comprises: (a) pouring a thermosetting polymer, with initiator, and catalyst, into a cavity of a mold which has a polymer coating or film on the interior surface thereof; (b) permitting the polymer to cure to a point where the cured material is reasonably dimensionally stable; (c) removing the partially cured polymeric material from the mold and placing the material in an oven; and (d) fully curing the polymeric material in the oven.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 1992Date of Patent: April 18, 1995Assignee: Polycryl Enterprises Inc.Inventors: Paul R. Schiller, Jost H. Schiller
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Patent number: 5403537Abstract: A method for producing advanced composite structures includes the assembly of a number of layers of fibrous reinforcements into a desired configuration. A vacuum is applied to the reinforcement in order to evacuate any air therefrom and to consolidate the plurality of fibrous reinforcements. Resin is introduced to the reinforcement by using a flow path therethrough having entry and exit points. The vacuum is used to transmit the resin through the reinforcement between the entry and exit points. The resin flows into the reinforcement due to the pressure differential between the evacuated reinforcement and the hydrostatic pressure on the resin as well as the capillary effect on the reinforcement.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 1993Date of Patent: April 4, 1995Assignee: Martin Marietta CorporationInventors: Ellis C. Seal, Michael G. Ferrell, Venu P. Bodepudi, Robert W. Biggs, Jr.
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Patent number: 5396694Abstract: A method of manufacturing a graphite foil coating wherein the coating is prepared prior to location on the components to be coated by isostatic pressing of graphite foil in a molding apparatus. The graphite foil coating may be for use in an alkali metal energy conversion device.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 1992Date of Patent: March 14, 1995Assignee: Silent Power GmbH Fur EnergiespeichertechnikInventor: Ronald P. Lowton
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Patent number: 5395229Abstract: A dough shield is disclosed for an apparatus for forming and rolling dough into ring-shaped pieces such as bagels. The apparatus has a flat conveyor belt wrapped into a forming tube having a V-shaped notch. The dough shield extends upward at a leading end thereof from said notch and downward at a trailing end inside the forming tube. The dough shield has a dough guiding surface which prevents excess dough from leaving the confines of the wrapped belt and forming tube and clogging up and fouling the equipment. In another embodiment, the shield is arranged between the tube and the belt along its length. The dough shield is ogive-shaped in plan view and concave downward in a vertical plane. The shield is provided with an adjustment bracket for adjusting the vertical height of the shield with respect to the forming tube and mandrel.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 1993Date of Patent: March 7, 1995Assignee: AM Manufacturing CompanyInventor: Thomas A. Atwood
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Patent number: 5393474Abstract: A molding method for molding a shaped plastic trim panel from a wet moldable composite includes a blade for trimming the molded plastic trim panel while it is still in the molding apparatus. The lower mold member has an annular severing slot and annular clamping shoulders inwardly and outwardly of the severing slot. The upper mold member has an annular slot that is aligned with the severing slot of the lower mold member and annular clamping shoulders on either side of the slot. These shoulders cooperate with the clamping shoulders of the lower mold member to clamp the margin of the molded plastic trim panel that is shaped in the molding members. An annular cutting blade having a serrated cutting edge disposed in the slot of the upper mold member moves down vertically into the severing groove to cut through the clamped margin and trim the molded plastic trim panel.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 1993Date of Patent: February 28, 1995Assignee: Davidson Textron Inc.Inventor: Steven L. Souders
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Patent number: 5389172Abstract: A method of carrying out aggregate exposed finish for concrete capable of extremely reducing the usage amount of decorative aggregates, and of facilitating the work without requiring the long working time and the technique of a high level is as follows. The method includes the steps of: loading aggregates on an adhesive sheet; burying part of the aggregates in an adhesive layer of the adhesive sheet; casting mortar or concrete onto an aggregate loading surface of the aggregate loading adhesive sheet; hardening the mortar or concrete; and removing the adhesive sheet.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 1993Date of Patent: February 14, 1995Assignees: Sliontec Corporation, Seltec CorporationInventors: Teruaki Kobayashi, Masahito Oyama, Hiroyuki Enomoto, Hiroyuki Ogawa, Yutaka Tamura
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Patent number: 5384085Abstract: An improved method of making a bent graphite shaft in which a mandrel is provided as the basic form for forming the shaft. The mandrel includes a flexible portion at the location of the desired bend in the shaft. Graphite composite material is applied to the mandrel and to the flexible portion thereof. The flexible portion is then bent into a configuration which provides the desired bend, and the flexible portion is held in this configuration while the graphite composite material is cured in situ on the mandrel to form a rigid, graphite shaft. The mandrel is then slid out of the shaft with the flexible portion of the mandrel being sufficiently flexible to allow the mandrel to pass out of the shaft without fracturing the shaft.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 1993Date of Patent: January 24, 1995Assignee: Berkley, Inc.Inventors: Guy M. Houser, Robert B. Sandman, Jr.
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Patent number: H1654Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved transfer molding method for encapsulating semiconductor, electrical and optical devices with epoxy or other thermoset resins wherein liner film is provided over the surfaces of the package cavities, runners, and pot prior to inserting the preform tablet in the pot and the devices in the package cavities.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 1995Date of Patent: June 3, 1997Inventor: Nicholas A. Rounds