Abstract: A method for making abrasive agglomerate particles from a composition comprising at least a radiation curable binder and solid particulates. The method comprises the steps of forcing the composition through a perforated substrate to form agglomerate precursor particles which then separate from the perforated substrate. Then, the particles are irradiated to form soldified, handleable agglomerate particles before being collected.

Abstract: The invention relates to a moisture-absorption sheet comprising a small fraction of an organic polymer having a high weight-averaged molecular weight and a large fraction of particles of a moisture absorbing substance. In spite of the high content of moisture-absorbing material, the moisture-absorption sheet according to the invention is not susceptible to crack formation and disintegration, and may have a high porosity. Due to these properties, the moisture-absorption sheet according to the invention is particularly useful for use in an organic electroluminescent device.

Abstract: A solid freeform fabrication method and related apparatus for fabricating a three-dimensional, multi-material or multi-color object from successive layers of a primary body-building powder, at least a modifier powder and a binder powder in accordance with a computer-aided design of the object, the method including: (a) feeding a first layer of the primary body-building powder to a work surface; (b) operating an electrophotographic powder deposition device to create at least a modifier powder image and a binder powder image in accordance with this design; (c) transferring these powder images in a desired sequence to the first layer of a primary body-building powder; (d) applying energy sources to fuse the binder powder, forming a binder fluid that permeates through the first layer of a primary body-building powder for bonding and consolidating the powder particles to form a first cross-section of the object; (e) feeding a second layer of a primary body-building powder onto the first layer and repeating the ope

Abstract: A process is proposed for producing non-combustible moulded articles from blown vermiculite, the blown vermiculite granules being mixed with an inorganic binder and then pressed. The blown vermiculite granules are mixed with a solution of an inorganic binder, the vermiculite granules once mixed are pre-pressed, cut to the shape required and the cut blanks are pressed non-continuously at at least room temperature and preferably at temperatures of at least 100° C. and pressures of at least 0.3 N/mm2 to ensure that all solvent residues are removed from the finished non-combustible moulded article.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for charging fibers that contain a nonconductive polymer. A polar liquid 32, 34 is sprayed onto free-fibers 24, and the free-fibers 24 are then collected to form an entangled nonwoven fibrous web 25 that may contain a portion of the polar liquid. The nonwoven web 25 is then dried 38. By applying an effective amount of polar liquid 32, 34 onto the nonconductive free-fibers 24 before forming the nonwoven web 25, followed by drying 38, the individual fibers 24 become charged. The method and apparatus enable the fibers 24 to be charged during web manufacture without subsequent processing.

Abstract: It has been discovered that the shape of a resin pellet can be controlled to reduce cycle time of an injection molding machine and improve the yield by narrowing variability in the plasticizing time.

Abstract: There is provided a process of producing a ring shaped resin bonded magnetic member by molding a feed mixture 24 which contains a lubricant and a magnetic powder composite made of magnetic powder and a heat curable resin composition which is in a solid state at a room temperature. The process is characterized in that (1) heating an inner peripheral surface of the annular cavity 20 so as to transfer heat to the feed mixture 24 whereby heating the feed mixture to a temperature not lower than a softening temperature and below a curing temperature of the resin composition, and compressing the filled feed mixture after or during the heating; and (ii) cooling the inner peripheral surface so as to transfer heat from the heated and compressed feed mixture through the inner peripheral surface, whereby cooling the feed mixture to a temperature below the softening temperature of the resin composition so as to obtain a green compact having a ring shape.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method of manufacturing density enhanced, bonded permanent magnets having the following properties:

Abstract: I have developed an agglomeration process by which granules are formed by the steps of: (a) injecting polymer having sufficient viscoelasticity, and (b) impacting particles on the polymer at the injection point. The present invention is advantageous because it overcomes the problems of previous granulation process and subsequent art processes by having a very low recycle rate and allowing for control of granule size. It is particularly useful for fertilizer granule formation using a ureaform polymer and particles comprised of ammonium sulfate.

Abstract: The technical disclosures of this invention are comprised of (1) a process for manufacturing parts, (2) techniques used for material distribution in this process, and (3) techniques used for consolidation of material in this process. The manufacturing process is an embodiment of layered freeform fabrication of parts of arbitrary geometry based on the use of bulk consolidation operations as opposed to previous methods which selectively consolidate regions of a layer at a time. In order to select which areas are consolidated, variations of material properties are created before consolidation. Two techniques are presented for creating these variations: a technique using an additive to change material properties and a technique using multiple materials distributed in an arbitrary pattern to form a layer. When an additive is used, a single material is deposited to form a layer and additive is selectively applied with an inkjet-style print head.

Abstract: A process is proposed for producing non-combustible moulded articles from blown vermiculite, the blown vermiculite granules being mixed with an inorganic binder and then pressed. The blown vermiculite granules are mixed with a solution of an inorganic binder, the vermiculite granules once mixed are pre-pressed, cut to the shape required and the cut blanks are pressed non-continuously at at least room temperature and preferably at temperatures of at least 100° C. and pressures of at least 0.3 N/mm2 to ensure that all solvent residues are removed from the finished noncombustible moulded article.

Abstract: This invention relates to processes for the formation of composite layers containing insoluble particles in metal matrices onto bodies to achieve enhanced thermal properties.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for continuously forming composites comprising filler materials and thermoactive materials, particularly waste cellulosic materials and waste thermoplastics, are described. One embodiment of the apparatus includes either a batchwise or continuous mixer, such as a cyclone, for forming mixtures comprising filler and thermoactive material. The mixtures are conveyed to a continuous consolidation apparatus. Alternatively, the mixtures may be densified in a densifying apparatus before entering the consolidation apparatus. The consolidation apparatus includes a hot-gas distribution system having plural paired gas cells, such as rollers or hoods, for applying hot air to the charge. A first cell of each pair applies gas to the mixture. The second cell of each pair operates at a pressure less than that of the first cell, thereby creating a pressure differential across the charge.

Abstract: Self-tuning materials which can efficiently emit or receive radio waves in spite of being simple in their construction and small in their dimension, and are applied to patch antenna, wave directors or the like. Metallic chips containing two or more kinds of ingredients which are distributed in a layered, net-like or needle-shaped configuration, and an organic or inorganic bonding material which is small in dissipation of electric power under radio waves of high frequencies are mixed with each other, and are pressurized under a high pressure while being highly electrified in the direction perpendicular to the pressurizing direction to mold the metallic chips and the bonding material in a plate-shaped configuration while being heated.

Abstract: An implant and a method for making and using the implant are disclosed for the repair of bone defects or voids, including defects or voids in the acetabular cup. The implant shapes and compositions of this invention provide advantages not present in impaction grafts and like implants known in the art. Also disclosed is an osteogenic, cross-linked composite implant, and methods of producing the same.

Abstract: A process for producing shaped articles are prepared by a process comprising selectively laser sintering a nylon-12 pulverulent material having the following characteristics: Melting point 185-189° C. Enthalpy of fusion 112 ± 17 J/g Solidification point 138-143° C.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for the production of boards of wood-based material from a mixture of lignocellulose- and/or cellulose-containing particles mixed with a binder, the mat or pressed stock being preheated by means of high-frequency (HF) or microwave (MW) energy and, after transfer into a single or multi-platen press or a continuously operating press, being pressed and cured by the application of pressure and heat.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing an articulating bearing surface for use in an orthopaedic implant uses a supply of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene particles which are irradiated with sufficient radiation energy to crosslink at least a portion of the ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene. The irradiated particles are then formed into an orthopaedic bearing surface.

Abstract: An apparatus is described for producing a three-dimensional object from a powder material which includes powder particles and which is solidifiable by exposure to electromagnetic radiation. The apparatus includes a support having a substantially plane support surface for supporting said object, an applying device for applying a layer of the powder material to the support surface, a radiation device for selectively exposing the powder material to electromagnetic radiation at places corresponding to the object and a discharge electrode for generating an electric field for reducing charge differences on the powder particles.

Abstract: A method of integrating organic fibers with mineral fibers includes centrifuging organic fibers from molten organic material, using a rotating organic fiber spinner, directing the organic fibers into a downwardly moving veil of organic fibers and gases, with the veil having an inwardly converging shape as it moves downward, centrifuging mineral fibers from molten mineral material using a rotary mineral fiber spinner positioned concentrically within the downwardly moving veil of organic fibers, directing the mineral fibers into a downwardly moving veil of mineral fibers and gases within the veil of organic fibers, wherein the veil of mineral fibers intersects with the veil of organic fibers to integrate the mineral fibers with the organic fibers, and collecting the integrated mineral fibers and organic fibers as a fibrous pack. An apparatus for performing the method is also disclosed.

Abstract: A technique for forming self-supporting structures with thermoplastic material incorporates a plasma-heated spray of thermoplastic material with glass fiber reinforcement, such as glass fibers. The material is sprayed into a mold which is shaped to create the desired form and configuration of the self-supporting structure. A mixture of thermoplastic powder and reinforcing fibers is carried by a stream of inert gas through a plasma region. The thermoplastic material is melted as it passes through the plasma region and the resulting plasma is sprayed against the surface of a form mold. The thickness of the resulting structure can be varied from region to region by changing the speed of movement of a spray nozzle relative to the form, using a plurality of spray nozzles that can be selectively activated and deactivated, or by providing a plurality of coats of sprayed thermoplastic material, one after another.

Abstract: An electret article can be made by quenching a molten blend containing a polymer and a performance-enhancing additive. The resulting low crystallinity material can be annealed and charged to produce a material for making electret filters having superior oily mist loading performance properties.

Abstract: A method of producing an object by successive solidification of layers of a powder material is disclosed. The method provides a preformed base plate having a metal plate with a solidified layer of a powder material formed thereon. Then, successive layers of said powder material are applied and solidified on the solidified layer of the base plate to form the object. In further detail, the method for produces a three-dimensional by providing a support and a preformed base plate having an upper surface for supporting the object. The base plate is removably attached to the support. Means are provided for adjusting the elevation of said upper surface. A layer of the powder material is applied to the upper surface of the base plate. The powder material is solidified at points corresponding to a cross-section of the object by irradiation with electromagnetic or particle radiation. Then, the applying and solidifying steps are repeated for completing the object.

Abstract: Disclosed is a process of converting asphalt composition roofing shingles into dimensional construction products. Asphalt composition roofing shingles are de-consolidated, such as by grinding, into a crumble. The asphalt shingle crumble is processed in a manner to increase the fusibility activity of the asphalt without decomposing a substantial fractional amount of the asphalt to an ash-like brittleness. The foregoing can be achieved by heat exchange using infrared heaters as the heat source. One disclosed example trial of the process warmed the crumble to a bulk temperature of between about 130.degree. F. and 150.degree. F. Following that, the asphalt shingle crumble is compacted into the shape of a given dimensional construction product such as blocks, curbs, tiles, beams, posts, and so on. The best quality products are achieved by a two-step compaction process in which there occurs a certain time elapse between the two compaction steps.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing food container includes the following steps: the husks of rice, oat, corn, soya bean, wheat or the mixture thereof are used as raw material to make food containers; an eatable adhesive is added in order to bind the husks; the bound husks is rolled into a sheet; after sterilizing the sheet with UV light; the sheet is shaped into a container of a desired shape, such as a bowl or a tray; a water-resistant is coated on the surface of the container.

Abstract: A syntactic structural foam product in flat sheet form or curved three-dimensional form adaptable to such uses as a light weight structural core for composite laminates, is made of a mixture of hollow ceramic microspheres and dry resin powder, of either thermosetting or a high-temperature thermoplastic resin, distributed in the interstices of the mass of microspheres for integration of the mixture into desired form upon heating and cooling. The dry resin powder in an other embodiment of the invention includes unexpanded expandable powder which will expand into microballoons in the confined spaces in which they reside and effect a bonding relation with surrounding particles upon supply of heat to the mixture.

Abstract: A bed of particulate solids including some hydrated materials can be converted by controlled irradiation with subinfrared electromagnetic radiation into a unitary porous solid that is mechanically strong enough for easy handling. When the particulate solids include typical acid to alkaline cleaner materials, a block or tablet especially suitable for automatic cleaning machinery, with a very fast dissolution rate in water, can readily be obtained.

Abstract: A process for the manufacture of particles comprises mechanically working a mixture of a drug and a hydrophobic and/or hydrophilic fusible carrier in a high speed mixture so as to form agglomerates, breaking the agglomerates to give controlled release particles and optionally continuing the mechanical working with the optional addition of a low percentage of the carrier or diluent.

Abstract: A material powder is packed in a cavity of a mold with high and uniform density to manufacture a powder molding a material powder in a shoe box 12 is fed into a cavity 6 formed in a mold 1 by moving the shoe box 12 over the cavity 6 while oscillating the shoe box until the density of the powder in the cavity increases to at least 1.1 times the apparent density. The powder is then compression-molded.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for selectively sintering a layer of powder to produce a part as a plurality of sintered layers. The apparatus includes a computer controlling a laser to direct the laser energy onto the powder to produce a sintered mass. The computer either determines or is programmed with the boundaries of the desired cross-sectional regions of the part. For each cross-section, the aim of the laser beam is scanned over a layer of powder and the beam is switched on to sinter only the powder within the boundaries of the cross-section. Powder is applied and successive layers sintered until a completed part is formed. Preferably, the powder dispensing mechanism includes a drum which is moved horizontally across the target area and counter-rotated to smooth and distribute the powder in an even layer across the target area. A downdraft system provides controlled temperature air flow through the target area to moderate powder temperature during sintering.

Abstract: A method for forming agglomerated powder particles whereby powder particles absorb energy pulses emanating from a high intensity light source, which causes particles to soften to produce agglomerated powder particles by inter-particle contact, reducing the amount of fines, and producing agglomerated powder particles of increased average particle size, having smooth surfaces and improved flow characteristics for bulk powders.

Abstract: A cellulose mixture including a protein based adhesive binder and colorant. The mixture can be compression molded or extruded and upon curing in the presence of microwave or radio frequency energy or in thermally controlled appliance, produces board or shape formed stock. The produced stock exhibits colorations and a grain pattern comparable to natural stone. Unlike stone, the material exhibits a light weight, low density, structural rigidity and ready machinability. A preferred method includes admixing separate, colorized batches of feedstock, each feedstock includes shredded waste newsprint, soybean flour, water and a colorant; reducing the moisture content of each feedstock or a proportioned admixture of several feedstocks, such as by air drying or compressing or performing the admixture in the presence of heat; compacting the admixture to final shape; and curing the shaped material. Final forming and finishing apparatus complete the process.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for producing plastic products from waste materials by: cutting into pieces a thermoplastic material having a loss factor higher than 0.005 such as to have a high absorbence of radio-frequency radiation, mixing the pieces with at least one other particulate material, depositing the mixture on a supporting surface; applying radio-frequency radiation to the mixture sufficient to soften mainly the outer surfaces of the pieces of thermoplastic material by dielectric heating, while applying pressure to the mixture to bond the mixture together by sintering; and removing the sintered mixture from the supporting surface.

Abstract: The 3-D Model Maker of the present invention is a device that builds three dimensional models of computer generated (e.g., CAD) structures by vector plotting layer-upon-layer applications of solidifiable substances. The layers are formed by expelling minuscule beads of the substances in liquid or flowable phase onto a platform from one or more jets, the jets and platform being relatively movable in X, Y and Z coordinate system. The beads are deposited along vectors, during X/Y relative movement, on the stage, one at a time, layer-upon-layer, to build the model. The jets and platform are moved relatively to one another in accordance with instructions from the computer (controller) to form each layer in the X-Y plane (in a manner analogous to an X-Y vector plotter) and either the stage or the jets may move in the Z direction to allow the jets to form subsequent layers.

Abstract: A laser markable composite material which when so marked retains good color contrast after heat aging. The material comprises polytetrafluoroethylene resin, photosensitive filler material and an extrusion aid. The photosensitive material is preferably a metal oxide and has a larger mean particle size than typical pigments. Also disclosed is a sequence of milling, mixing and blending steps which forms the desired composite material.