Uniting Spaced Preforms Or Solidified Layers By Introducing Foamable Material Therebetween Patents (Class 264/46.5)
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Patent number: 7370827Abstract: A reel or spool package has opposing sidewalls or flanges formed of the specified or appropriate substrate and connected by a core formed of a flowable material which sets or cures to harden, such as a two part expandable polyurethane foam. The foam is applied into a partition, which may be a paper ring, by an injection and metering device. The chemistry of the flowable material may be altered to change density, rigidity and flexibility as required by package stresses. The polyurethane foam is an effective adhesive medium, thereby forming the core and connecting the sidewalls to form the package.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2008Inventors: Lawrence M. Ridgeway, Jr., James M. Lee
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Patent number: 7361293Abstract: In a method for producing a trim article (1), the interspace between a sheet-like decorative material (5) and a carrier (3) is foam-filled. There is provision, during foaming, for the decorative material (5) to be pressed sealingingly onto the interior-side surface of the carrier (3) so as to run around the region to be foam-filled. In this case, the discharge of the air to be displaced during foaming can take place through the foam-tight, but, at least in regions, not gas-tight structure of the carrier (3). For this purpose, the carrier (3) can be gas-sealed in regions by the local compression of an intrinsically gas-permeable unprocessed part before introduction into the foaming die. Also disclosed is a trim article capable of being produced according to the method.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2003Date of Patent: April 22, 2008Assignee: Johnson Controls GmbHInventors: Martin Wolff, Birgit Budde, Johann-Georg Werner, Hubert Brueckner, Detlef Walter Juerss, Heinz Dieter Wellen
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Publication number: 20080078717Abstract: A porous filter cartridge comprising: a cap being in the form of a bottomed cylinder and including an opening provided at the center of a bottom part thereof; and at least one porous filters held on the inner side of the cap, and at the bottom part, wherein the cap comprises a plurality of convex ribs provided on the bottom part side of the inner circumferential surface of the cap, and at a part on the circumference of the inner circumferential surface, the plurality of convex ribs protruding to the inside of the cap and bending the outer perimeter end of the at least one porous filters.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 27, 2007Publication date: April 3, 2008Applicant: FUJIFILM CORPORATIONInventors: Keiji SHIGESADA, Morio FUJIWARA
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Patent number: 7351363Abstract: A press for rigid foam sheets with continuous adjustment of the spacing between the two press plates (1,3), in particular for sandwich panels with an upper and lower outer layer and, located therebetween, a core of rigid polyurethane foam. The lower press plate (3) is here moved into a preselected position corresponding to the panel thickness to be foamed by means of synchronously rotating threaded lifting spindles (4), assisted by weight-compensating cylinders (5). Short-stroke cylinders (6) are provided between the heads of the threaded lifting spindles (4) and the lower press plate (3). Said short-stroke cylinders have the function of dissipating the moulding force which has arisen due to foaming by moving the press plate (3) a very small stroke downwards. It is also possible, instead of the short-stroke cylinders (6), to install an air cushion system, which has a stroke of approx. 1 mm, between the press plate and the heating plate. This stroke is sufficient to dissipate the foaming pressure.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2002Date of Patent: April 1, 2008Assignee: Hennecke GmbHInventor: Carsten Ramcke
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Patent number: 7341638Abstract: A process for preparing a fiber reinforced polymeric foam composite includes introducing a foamable mixture into a low binder expandable fiber mat and then expanding the foamable mixture into a polymeric foam between top and bottom facing sheets such that the fibers of the low binder fiber mat become dispersed within the polymeric foam, wherein the low binder fiber mat is part of a composite web that further comprises a support web. Such a composite web is particularly useful for preparing reinforced polymeric foam composites that contain a fiber reinforced polymeric foam having a thickness of greater than two inches (5.08 centimeters) and fibers substantially distributed therein.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2003Date of Patent: March 11, 2008Assignee: Dow Global Technologies Inc.Inventor: James Lynn Haas
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Patent number: 7332115Abstract: A composite material for vehicle hulls and a hull molding process comprising a gel coat, a skin coat, a bulk fiberglass layer and adhesive applied to a top mating surface and a bottom mating surface within a top mold and a bottom mold, wherein the adhesive forms a connector. The two molds are placed together, and after the adhesive sets, foam is introduced into at least one cavity formed when the molds are brought together. The molds remain closed while the foam is introduced.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2004Date of Patent: February 19, 2008Inventors: Dan Mielke, Scott Wood
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Publication number: 20080029920Abstract: This method relates to the manufacture of a gliding board having a non-rectangular cross-section including an upper assembly including at least one upper protective layer and a fibre stiffener impregnated with a thermosetting resin, a polyurethane foam-based core, and a lower assembly including a base of the board. The method involves placing the lower assembly and the upper assembly in a mould, and then injecting a reactive mixture into a space enclosed between the lower assembly and the upper assembly in order to produce an expanded polyurethane foam. The thermosetting resin used to impregnate the fibre stiffener is based on polyurethane and the expanded foam of the core comes into direct contact with the fibre stiffener.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 26, 2007Publication date: February 7, 2008Applicant: Skis DynastarInventors: Olivier PERRIN, Emmanuel Cassibba
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Method for Permanently Obturating Holes, Especially in Metal Sheets of Plastic Part of an Automobile
Publication number: 20080029919Abstract: The invention relates to a method for permanently obturating holes, especially in metal sheets or plastic parts of automobile bodies. The inventive method is characterized by using a punched article which is at least partially provided on one side with an adhesive material and includes an especially textile support whose surface is greater than the surface of the hole to be obturated and which is especially provided with a non-expanded expandable body in the center of the adhesive side. The punched article is fixed on the hole together with the support in such a manner that the hole is completely covered by the punched article and the expandable body comes to rest inside the hole. The punched article and the expandable body are heated to such an extent that the expandable body expands, heat is supplied until the expanded expandable body completely fills and/or covers the hole, and the expanded expandable body cools off and cures.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 11, 2005Publication date: February 7, 2008Applicant: TESA AGInventors: Bernd Howe, Frank Kolmorgen, Patrick Gehringer -
Patent number: 7313865Abstract: There is disclosed a member for reinforcing, sealing or baffling a structure of an article of manufacture such as an automotive vehicle. The member preferably includes a carrier member and an activatable (e.g., expandable, curable or both) material disposed upon a surface of the carrier member. The carrier member is preferably formed of a thermosettable material such as a molding compound (e.g., a sheet or bulk molding compound).Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2003Date of Patent: January 1, 2008Assignee: ZEPHYROS, Inc.Inventors: Michael J. Czaplicki, Jon Riley, David Carlson
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Patent number: 7303705Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed for providing a foam-filled thermoplastic spine board. An upper surface of the spine board has a cradle configuration to assist in more comfortably positioning a patient. The spine board includes hand holds for transporting the patient. Being free from metallic parts, the spine board is X-ray translucent and/or radio translucent.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2003Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Inventor: George S. Panton, Jr.
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Patent number: 7293594Abstract: The invention relates to a process for the production of sandwich elements (so-called panels), in which the rising reactive mixture is guided, when it rises, through guide elements arranged between the upper and lower outer layers. This process produces void-free panels having a regular cell structure. The invention also relates to an apparatus useful for the production of such sandwich elements.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2005Date of Patent: November 13, 2007Assignee: Henneick GmbHInventors: Ulrich Knapp, Jürgen Wirth
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Patent number: 7290828Abstract: There is disclosed a system and method of employing a porous container for sealing, baffling, reinforcing or a combination thereof. According to the method, a porous container having one or more openings is provided. An expandable material is associated with the container and is preferably placed within the container. Thereafter, the expandable material is expanded to contact and adhere to a structure of an article of manufacture (e.g., an automotive vehicle).Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2005Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Zephyros, Inc.Inventors: David J. Kosal, Kevin Hicks, David Carlson, Michael J. Czaplicki, Serge Bieber, Dominique Busseuil
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Patent number: 7291234Abstract: An apparatus and a continuous process produce composite structural insulated panels (SIPs). Lower boards are placed on a conveying system through a foam application zone and then upper boards are applied. The foam material adheres to the upper and lower boards to form a structural insulated panel after passing through a curing apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2003Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: IP Rights, LLCInventor: Sammie J. Glorioso
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Patent number: 7234812Abstract: A helmet with an optical display system is provided with a custom fit protective liner which precisely aligns the wearer's eyes with the optics on the helmet. The helmet is manufactured by positioning the subject's head in a fixture; determining the position of the subject's pupils with respect to the fixture; scanning the subject's head with a laser while positioned in the fixture in order to obtain a 3-D model of the subject's head; and providing a helmet liner having an outer surface which is profiled to position it inside a helmet shell. The position of the subject's pupils may be determined by scanning pupil locating features of the fixture. The 3-D model is then used to provide the helmet liner with an inner surface which conforms to the subject's head and is positioned with respect to the outer surface so that the outer surface will have a predetermined position with respect to the subject's pupils. The helmet liner is then fitted in the helmet shell to form a helmet.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2004Date of Patent: June 26, 2007Assignee: Crew Systems CorporationInventors: Gary J. Piorkowski, William Radzelovage
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Patent number: 7229579Abstract: A method of making a sponge device is provided. This method includes introducing a curable liquid sponge forming material into a form, placing a handle into the material before it is fully cured, heating the form to cure the material, removing the cured material from the form, and rinsing the cured material. Another aspect of the present invention is the assembly for making this sponge device. This assembly includes a runner for joining a plurality of handles, plates that are spring-biased together to support the handles, a chase formed of heat conductive metal having a shelf where the plates can be set, and a silicone form having a plurality of cavities therein for receiving the sponge forming material.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Medsorb Dominicana, S.A.Inventors: James C. Martin, Randy S. Kilburn, Lowell L. Teague, Richard D. Tidd
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Patent number: 7226552Abstract: A process is provided for producing an insulating system, comprising at least a vacuum insulating panel (20; 30) in a matrix of homogeneous polymeric foam (602; 707), inside an interspace (101; 703) of a device which must subsequently be subjected, at least at the interspace, to a temperature higher than 100° C., without damaging this system and without causing it to lose its original insulating properties, by providing a flexible protection system of cardboard.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2004Date of Patent: June 5, 2007Assignee: Saes Getters S.p.A.Inventors: Paolo Manini, Pierattilio Di Gregorio, Ruggero Tiberi
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Patent number: 7198075Abstract: A method of manufacturing a composite fluted sheeting material comprising at least two surfaces interspersed with a plurality of substantially parallel spaced webs forming a plurality of elongate semi closed cells (5), and a filler material set within said cells; the method including the steps of: (f) applying a blank fluted sheet to a receiving station (7); (g) preparing a filler material for delivery to a filling station; (h) moving said blank sheet and/or said filling station relative to each other such that said filling station moves in a linear direction transversely across the open ends of said elongate semi closed cells of said sheet; (i) dispensing said filler material to said cells; allowing said filler material to set.Type: GrantFiled: December 24, 2002Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Global Polymer Technologies Pty Ltd.Inventors: John Korosy, Robert Korosy
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Patent number: 7160491Abstract: An automotive vehicle frame reinforcement system has a skeleton member designed to be secured to a vehicle frame, such as a roof or pillar section. An expandable material, such as an epoxy-based reinforcing foam, is disposed on the skeleton member. Once the system is attached to the frame, the foam expands and cures during an automobile assembly operation, bonding the reinforcement system to the frame. As a result, the reinforcement system provides enhanced load distribution over the vehicle frame without adding excessive weight.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2005Date of Patent: January 9, 2007Assignee: L&L Products, Inc.Inventors: William J. Barz, Thomas L. Coon, Michael J. Czaplicki
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Patent number: 7147809Abstract: In at least one embodiment, the present invention takes the form of a panel comprising a substrate, a cover layer, and foam disposed between at least a portion of the substrate and the cover layer. At least one of the cover layer or the substrate being is provided with an integrally formed member for sealing the cover layer to the substrate. The present invention also relates to a method for forming the panel.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2005Date of Patent: December 12, 2006Assignee: Lear CorporationInventors: Glenn A. Cowelchuk, Richard Morabito, Joseph T. Donatti, Todd L. DePue
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Patent number: 7105112Abstract: A lightweight member is provided for reinforcing, sealing or baffling structures of articles of manufacture such as automotive vehicles. The lightweight member preferably includes a carrier member having a cellular structure and an expandable material disposed thereon.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2003Date of Patent: September 12, 2006Assignee: L&L Products, Inc.Inventors: Michael J. Czaplicki, David Carlson
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Patent number: 7097794Abstract: The present invention is an article comprising a shaped rigid foam part; a heat activated foamable adhesive applied directly to at least a portion of the outer surface of the shaped foam part and an integral locating means. A second aspect of the invention is a method of forming a foam filled vehicle hollow member comprising, (a) inserting into a vehicular hollow member a rigid foam part comprised of a rigid foam having a heat activated foamable adhesive on at least a portion of the rigid foam insert and at least one integral locating means extending from a surface of the rigid foam, (b) engaging the locating means with the hollow member to locate the rigid foam part within the hollow member, and (c) heating the hollow member having the rigid foam part therein to a temperature and for a time sufficient to activate the heat activated expandable adhesive to form the foam filled vehicle hollow member.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2003Date of Patent: August 29, 2006Assignee: Dow Global Technologies, Inc.Inventors: David G. McLeod, Frank V. Billotto, Steve B. Swartzmiller, Mark P. Allen, Christopher A. Brewster, Kousay M. Said
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Patent number: 7097730Abstract: A method and apparatus for attaching an ornamental overlay to a vehicle wheel by injecting adhesive foam through an aperture of the wheel and into a cavity formed between the wheel and the overlay. A first nest engages the outboard side of the wheel/overlay assembly to seal the inner periphery of the overlay, the valve stem opening of the overlay, the lug bolt receiving holes of the wheel, the pilot aperture of the wheel, and/or the valve stem opening of the wheel. A secondary nest engages the inboard side of the wheel/overlay assembly to seal the wheel apertures and a plurality of turbine openings in the overlay. A nozzle disposed within the secondary nest is adapted to inject the adhesive foam into the cavity through either a gap between the periphery of a wheel aperture and the periphery of a corresponding turbine opening in the overlay, through a straight or angled hole within a spoke, or through a groove within a spoke.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2003Date of Patent: August 29, 2006Assignee: Lacks Industries, Inc.Inventors: James A. Woelfel, Brian C. Wrase
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Patent number: 7087199Abstract: Process for the manufacture of an article comprising a rigid support element of which a “show” face is partially covered by a supple covering. The covering is connected to a relatively rigid holding element having its own shape and a strength such that it is not substantially deformed under predetermined foaming conditions, in order substantially to maintain the covering in a predetermined shape. Then, the covering and the support element are placed in a foaming mould, and, since the support element has a hollow region delimited by a peripheral rim, a docking surface of the covering is disposed opposite the peripheral rim. Foam is thus introduced into the mould, between the support element and the covering, under the predetermined conditions, in order to connect the covering and the support element.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2003Date of Patent: August 8, 2006Assignee: Faurecia Interieur IndustrieInventor: Julien Delcros
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Patent number: 7040884Abstract: A system for manufacturing foamed plastics laminated panels at a high volume is disclosed. Press modules include a pair of opposed spaced open frame members with longitudinal raised sections attached to perpendicular supports. The open frame members move relative to one another, support respective panel outer skin layers; and recieve therebetween edge sealing members of a predetermined thickness. A spacing between the open frame members and a hinge is adjustable to move a first open frame member relative to a second frame member. Clamps retain the open frame members in a predetermined space relationship, and when actuated, forms a mould cavity defined by the outer skin layers and edge sealing members supported by the open frame members. An inlet introduces an a liquid foamable plastics material into the moulded cavity, and a delivery system delivers liquid reactants in predetermined proportions to a selected mould cavity formed in a selected press module.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2003Date of Patent: May 9, 2006Assignee: Euretech International Pty Ltd.Inventor: Tonny Bergqvist
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Patent number: 7037453Abstract: The invention relates to a process for forming a laminate comprising a core of a compressed metal powder mixed with a foaming agent between two metal layers, comprising the successive steps of providing two metal strips and a stock of powder comprising a metal powder mixed with a foaming agent; applying a layer of the powder between the two metal strips; feeding the metal strips, with the powder between them, to a rolling mill; rolling the two strips with the powder between them to form a laminate of compressed powder between two metal layers. The invention also relates to an associated device and to the product formed using the process.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2001Date of Patent: May 2, 2006Assignee: Corus Aluminium Walzprodukte GmbHInventors: Peter Conrad Hubert Ament, Nicolaas Dirk Adrianus Kooij, Christiaan Johannes Kooij, Anthony Stephan Verdier
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Patent number: 7025844Abstract: An improved process for permanently attaching an overlay to a wheel disc, wherein the overlay is aligned and spaced apart from the wheel disc. A mold is created by a combination of the overlay, wheel disc and localized nests that engage at predetermined times during foam filling to close the mold. The mold is adequately sealed so that there is no foam leakage as the foam expands to fill the mold and, therefore, no final trimming of excess foam is required. The improved process is capable of accommodating a wheel having turbine openings therein.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2001Date of Patent: April 11, 2006Assignee: Lacks Industries, Inc.Inventors: Lee A. Chase, Douglas Louis Neeb, Robert E. Shea
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Patent number: 7022272Abstract: Disclosed is a method of manufacturing a mechanically and chemically embossed surface covering having selectively textured surfaces. The method includes forming a web coated with a wear layer. The coated web is heated to a temperature at which the wear layer is cured, the foam layer expands, and the pattern is chemically embossed to form a surface covering having foamed regions and nonfoamed regions. The temperature gradient of the surface covering is adjusted such that there is a temperature gradient difference between the foamed and nonfoamed regions. A surface texture is then mechanically embossed into the wear layer and selectively set onto the wear layer substantially overlying the non-foamed regions.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2003Date of Patent: April 4, 2006Assignee: AWI Licensing CompanyInventors: W. Craig Brossman, Steven F. Hynicka, Lisa Moyer, William J. Kauffman
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Patent number: 7014802Abstract: A method for making a surface covering is disclosed which includes providing a surface covering having a backing layer, a foamable layer, and a design layer, wherein the design layer includes a portion of a pattern printed with at least one retarder composition. A wear layer is then provided on the design layer and the wear layer is cured. The foamable layer is thereby expanded to form a foam layer, and the pattern printed with at least one retarder composition is chemically embossed. The cured product is subsequently cooled to ambient temperature and then the top surface of the wear layer is subjected to a sufficient temperature to soften the wear layer. After being softened the wear layer is mechanically embossed with a surface texture, the embossed surface texture is set in the wear layer, and a top coat may then be provided on the embossed set wear layer. A surface covering having the various features described above is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 1999Date of Patent: March 21, 2006Assignee: Mannington Mills, of Delaware, Inc.Inventors: John M. Eby, Hao A. Chen, Alonzo M. Burns, Jr.
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Patent number: 7005091Abstract: A method for forming an integrated trim plate in a single processing step. An appliqué section is reversibly securing to the lower section of a mold. A layer of thermoplastic covering is applied onto and over the appliqué section and lower section of the mold. A layer of foam is then injected between the thermoplastic covering and a substrate used to secure the integrated trim plate within a structure such as an automobile frame. The appliqué section may be magnetically secured to the lower section of the mold or may be physically secured within a forming section of the lower section.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2003Date of Patent: February 28, 2006Assignee: Lear CorporationInventors: Glenn Cowelchuk, Steven M. Christian, Todd DePue, David J. Cauvin
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Patent number: 7005092Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of manufacturing an interior trim panel assembly having an integrated soft-touch area for improved aesthetic trim component quality. The method of manufacturing a trim panel assembly for the interior of a vehicle having an integrated soft-touch area of the present invention includes placing a molded trim panel including a coverstock having an exposed outer surface and a foam backing disposed opposite the outer surface and a rigid substrate having at least one aperture bonded to the coverstock into a mold cavity. The method of manufacture further includes separating the bonded coverstock and rigid polymer substrate in a localized area to define an internal chamber accessible by the aperture. The method of manufacture also includes injecting soft foam into the internal chamber through the aperture so as to be juxtaposed between the coverstock and the rigid polymer substrate in at least one predetermined location to define an integrated soft-touch area.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2003Date of Patent: February 28, 2006Assignee: Lear CorporationInventors: David James Dooley, Mark Fero
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Patent number: 6984349Abstract: A manufacturing method for a refrigerator door is disclosed. The method uses only a transparent plastic layer to make the refrigerator door. The present invention can simplify the manufacturing process, and reduce the number of parts required for the refrigerator door to reduce costs. Furthermore, an appearance pattern on the refrigerator door can be painted or printed onto the surface of the transparent plastic layer with different types, and a male mold of a vacuum forming machine can provide different shapes to make the refrigerator door into variety shapes. Moreover, because the appearance pattern can be painted or printed on the inner surface of the transparent plastic layer, the appearance pattern will not come off because of frequent touching.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2003Date of Patent: January 10, 2006Assignee: Tatung Co., Ltd.Inventors: Sheng-Hann Sheh, Ching-Lung Tsai
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Patent number: 6984452Abstract: A composite structural laminate plate suitable for building maritime vessels or for building civil structures such as double hull oil tankers, bulk carriers, barges decks for roll-on roll-off ferries, orthotropic bridge decks or for building any structural application in which the traditional method of construction uses stiffened steel plates. The laminate has two facing metal layers that are structurally bonded to a polyurethane elastomer core which may have steel or rigid foam void sections embedded within. The laminate provides equivalent in plane and transverse stiffness and strength, reduces fatigue problems, minimizes stress concentrations, improves thermal and acoustical insulation, and provides vibration control. The laminate provides a structural system that acts as a crack arrest layer and that can join two dissimilar metals without welding or without setting up a galvanic cell.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2004Date of Patent: January 10, 2006Assignee: Intelligent Engineering (Bahamas) LimitedInventor: Stephen J. Kennedy
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Patent number: 6984445Abstract: A multi-layer sheet of the present invention comprises a thermoplastic resin foam sheet, a reinforcing sheet layered on integrated with at least one side of the thermoplastic resin foam sheet; the reinforcing sheet being formed by a non-woven fabric which comprises non-meltable fibers which are interwound with one another and which are bound together with a thermoplastic resin, the thermoplastic resin foam sheet having an aspect ratio Dz/Dxy of bubbles of 1.2 or more, and an expansion ratio of 5˜50 cc/g, and therefore the sheet is excellent in bending strength, compressive strength, thermo-forming property and dimensional stability as well as lightweight property, and so can ideally be used for an upholstery material for vehicles, a heat-insulation material, a buffer material and the like.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2000Date of Patent: January 10, 2006Assignee: Sekisui Kagaku Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Kazuo Yamagata, Isao Higuchi, Takamasa Fukuoka, Michitaka Tsujimoto, Masashi Okabe, Yoshihiro Inui
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Patent number: 6972100Abstract: One aspect of the present invention pertains to an apparatus for forming a rigid foamed cementitious core within a plurality of article shells. In general, the apparatus can be comprised of a shell bank for retaining a plurality of article shells and comprising a sled and a plurality of reinforcement shells, a filing station for delivering a gas-entrained cementitious material, and a pump. The gas-entrained cementitious material cures to form a rigid foamed cementitious core within each article shell in the plurality of article shells.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2003Date of Patent: December 6, 2005Assignee: TT Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Ronald C. Minke, David R. Redding
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Patent number: 6929711Abstract: A method of making a vehicle interior trim part includes forming an air-permeable substrate into a desired shape; positioning the formed substrate and a cover material on a vacuum mold such that the substrate extends between the cover material and the mold; and vacuum forming the cover material over the substrate.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2003Date of Patent: August 16, 2005Assignee: Lear CorporationInventor: Eric J. Benninger
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Patent number: 6923932Abstract: A method of molding a composite structure of a polymeric preformed skin with tightly radiused features and a polymeric foam body is provided. The method includes providing a mold cavity having a first edge; placing the preformed skin in the mold cavity with a preformed first edge of the preformed skin adjacent to the first edge of the mold cavity; heating the preformed skin adjacent the first edge; exposing the first edge to a vacuum to reform the preformed skin first edge to be adjacent the mold cavity first edge and injecting a foam polymeric material into the mold.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2002Date of Patent: August 2, 2005Assignee: Intertec Systems, LLCInventor: Gregg S. Evans
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Patent number: 6908578Abstract: The invention relates to the production of foamed sandwich elements including skins joined by a frame. In applying the foam in a cassette formed by the frame and one of the skins the invention provides for use of an applicator having a two-dimensional movable discharge orifice.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2001Date of Patent: June 21, 2005Assignee: Siempelkamp Handling SystemeInventors: Wolfgang Schumacher, Peter Dimperl
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Patent number: 6899835Abstract: A door or other entryway component of synthetic resin composite construction and closely resembling the appearance of stained real wood. Skin portions of doors and other structures have a surface layer of clear gel coat resin molded to include the texture of a wood grain surface. A subsurface layer adjacent the clear gel coat layer is of pigmented gel coat resin. A structural support layer of the skin is of reinforced resin. Skins of a door or similar article are mounted on frames, and dense micro porous resin foam is provided between the skins to form a solid structure such as a door. Moldings retaining glass panels in openings defined in the door or similar structure are attached to the skins by adhesively fastening the moldings to the skins. Fasteners mounted in the moldings so that there are no plugged holes in the exterior surfaces of the moldings are used to locate the moldings properly with respect to the skins by inserting the fasteners into predrilled holes in the skins.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2002Date of Patent: May 31, 2005Assignee: Jeld-Wen, inc.Inventors: Tommy L. Liittschwager, Amado Domas, Tim McCleery, Dennis W. Albright
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Patent number: 6863849Abstract: A method of molding a composite foam molding element comprising attaching a top side member to a first die side of a cavity between a pair of dies and a back side member to a second die side of the cavity; supplying raw material beads made of a foam resin to an intervening charging space; discharging air from a plurality of work piece nozzles located at the side of the die wherein the back side member is located; starting air discharging from a work piece nozzle located at a most distant position from a charger for supplying raw material beads when the raw material beads are supplied; charging raw material beads during the starting air discharging step and sequentially discharging air from work piece nozzles located successively closer to a work piece nozzle located at the most proximal position from the charger as raw material beads are charged; and heating charged raw material beads to cause foaming and fusion to integrate a top side member and a back side member with each other via a foam member.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2002Date of Patent: March 8, 2005Assignee: Daisen Industry Co., Ltd.Inventors: Iwao Nohara, Shigeki Yoshimura, Kiyotaka Ida
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Patent number: 6832429Abstract: A method for creating a hot melt foamed form for an air induction system. A block of thermal mastic elastomer is melted and blended with nitrogen gas to create a foamed material. The foamed material is applied by robotic techniques over a base material on the surface of a polypropylene glass lower shell. After the foamed material cures, a polypropylene glass cover is applied over the foamed material form to create an air tight dust/water seal. The cover does not adhere to the cured foamed material and is removable when service is necessary. The foam material can also be dispensed into a mold and then transferred to the base, allowing for changes in the shape and profile of the foamed material. This method can also be employed to create an isolation pad on an air induction system to absorb engine shock. The thermal mastic elastomer can also be employed to create a seal between the cover neck of an air induction assembly and a mass air flow sensor.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2001Date of Patent: December 21, 2004Assignee: Siemens VDO Automotive Inc.Inventors: Gordon R. Boyes, Robert John Lidster, Boderic Cole
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Publication number: 20040229013Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of manufacturing an interior trim panel assembly having an integrated soft-touch area for improved aesthetic trim component quality. The method of manufacturing a trim panel assembly for the interior of a vehicle having an integrated soft-touch area of the present invention includes placing a molded trim panel including a coverstock having an exposed outer surface and a foam backing disposed opposite the outer surface and a rigid substrate having at least one aperture bonded to the coverstock into a mold cavity. The method of manufacture further includes separating the bonded coverstock and rigid polymer substrate in a localized area to define an internal chamber accessible by the aperture. The method of manufacture also includes injecting soft foam into the internal chamber through the aperture so as to be juxtaposed between the coverstock and the rigid polymer substrate in at least one predetermined location to define an integrated soft-touch area.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 16, 2003Publication date: November 18, 2004Inventors: David James Dooley, Mark Fero
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Patent number: 6814765Abstract: According to the present invention there is provided a coal-based carbon foam having a density of between about 0.1 g/cm3 and about 0.8 g/cm3, preferably between about 0.2 g/cm3 and about 0.6 g/cm3 and most preferably between about 0.3 g/cm3 and about 0.4 g/cm3 that is produced by the controlled heating of high volatile bituminous coal particulate in a “mold” and under a non-oxidizing atmosphere. The high volatile bituminous coal starting material preferably exhibits a free swell index of between about 3.5 and about 5.0 and most preferably between about 3.75 and about 4.5. A number of additional highly desirable characteristics of the high volatile bituminous coal starting material are also described. The carbon foam product thereby produced can be machined, adhered and otherwise fabricated to produce a wide variety of low cost, low density products, or used in its preformed shape as a filter, heat or electrical insulator etc.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2002Date of Patent: November 9, 2004Assignee: Touchstone Research Laboratory, Ltd.Inventor: Darren Kenneth Rogers
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Publication number: 20040217504Abstract: A composite material for vehicle hulls and a hull molding process comprising a gel coat, a skin coat, a bulk fiberglass layer and adhesive applied to a top mating surface and a bottom mating surface within a top mold and a bottom mold, wherein the adhesive forms a connector. The two molds are placed together, and after the adhesive sets, foam is introduced into at least one cavity formed when the molds are brought together. The molds remain closed while the foam is introduced.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2004Publication date: November 4, 2004Inventors: Dan Mielke, Scott Wood
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Publication number: 20040159016Abstract: The method for manufacturing a part of a sports boot is one which essentially comprises the following steps:Type: ApplicationFiled: November 10, 2003Publication date: August 19, 2004Inventor: Ricardo Perotto
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Publication number: 20040140581Abstract: An ankle block for a leg prosthesis comprising an insert having a body with an upper mounting surface and a bottom interface surface opposite from the upper mounting surface. The insert body defines a central coaxial hole therethrough. An over mold is formed about an exterior of the body and extends upwardly therefrom defining a central cavity above the insert and above the upper mounting surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 29, 2003Publication date: July 22, 2004Inventors: Christopher L. Johnson, Eric L. Robinson, Michael J. Link
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Patent number: 6764622Abstract: A vacuum-insulated container for transporting and dispensing beverages or food products has a stainless steel vacuum-insulated liner surrounded by a body. The body includes several cylindrical sections attached together. Expanding foam is sprayed between the liner and the body, and the expanded foam helps to prevent the cylindrical sections from detaching. A weight is placed between the body and the liner for adjusting a center of mass of the container. The center of mass is adjusted to be spaced radially away from a central longitudinal axis of the container, below a mid-plane of the container, and 180° away from a handle around the central longitudinal axis. Thus, if the container falls into water or tips on its side, it will come to rest in a position with the handle standing substantially upright. The handle can fold flush with the container and can extend away from the container for grasping. A locking means is provided to releasably lock the handle in the extended position.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2002Date of Patent: July 20, 2004Assignee: Megatrade International, Inc.Inventor: Jorge E. Moran
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Patent number: 6764621Abstract: A method and apparatus for making a composite article that includes a soft trim component employs a pair of mold halves, wherein a suitable skin material is sprayed onto a first mold cavity surface to obtain an in-mold coating, and a substrate is positioned between the mold halves such that a first area of one side of the substrate is located in opposition with the in-mold coating. A sprue defined in the second mold half, in opposition with the other side of the substrate, directs injected foam through an aperture in the substrate and into a gap defined between the one side of the substrate and the in-mold coating. A portion of the first mold half includes a layer of a sealing material that is harder than the substrate material to thereby eliminate the need to otherwise trim the overmolded soft trim component upon release from the mold.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2001Date of Patent: July 20, 2004Assignee: Lear CorporationInventor: Armin Schwaighofer
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Patent number: 6755998Abstract: A method for making a composite panel includes the step (26) of providing a panel having elongated channels (14) that are positioned along areas of anticipated point compression loading. The panel (10) has a reinforcing fabric layer (41) attached to a non-woven fabric layer (43) forming an outside layer (12). The composite panel has foam core (8,9) within the outside layer. The method further comprises the step (27) of providing structural foam channel inserts (16) having an outer fabric layer (18), wherein the channel inserts have a cross section which matches the cross-sectional profile of each of the elongated channels of the panel. Resin is then applied to the outside layer of the panel and outer fabric layer of the channel inserts such the channel inserts are positioned within the channels of the panel (29 and 31). The resin is then allowed to cure (33) forming a composite structure.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2000Date of Patent: June 29, 2004Assignee: Compsys, Inc.Inventors: Ronnal P. Reichard, Scott M. Lewit, Miles P. Mackaness, Neil A. Rohan
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Patent number: 6752954Abstract: A manufacturing method is provided for a roller, by which a roller having low eccentricity and high surface smoothness can be obtained without the need to perform cumbersome processes such as polishing of a foamed layer. The manufacturing method for a roller includes the steps of injecting a foam-layer compound into the space between a core bar, which is disposed at the center of a cylindrical mold, and an electron beam-irradiated tube, which has an outer diameter somewhat smaller than an inside diameter of the cylindrical mold, and which is set inside the cylindrical mold, and heating and foaming the foam-layer compound, so that the outer surface of the electron beam-irradiated tube is pressed against the inner surface of the cylindrical mold.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2002Date of Patent: June 22, 2004Assignee: Sumitomo Electric Fine Polymer, Inc.Inventors: Kazuaki Ikeda, Katsuya Yamada
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Patent number: 6749782Abstract: A forming method of a foam board includes a hard plastic top plate and a hard plastic bottom plate provided respectively on and under a foam board placed in a mold. In a forming process by heating, the peripheral edges of the hard plastic top and the bottom plate respectively bend downward and upward automatically and extend to stick on the peripheral side edge of the foam board and fusing and adhering with each other to make up an integral peripheral edge so as to elevate the rigidity and safety of the foam board and enable it endure grinding.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2002Date of Patent: June 15, 2004Assignee: Sun Own Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventor: Ching Hsi Chen