Means To Convey Preform To Female Mold Patents (Class 425/126.1)
  • Publication number: 20040195712
    Abstract: Resin or pitch is melted in a melt blender apparatus (11) and then loaded, into a heated jacketed holding tank (12). A pair of feed lines (14, 16) receives resin from the holding tank (12) and feeds an upper gear pump (15) and a lower gear pump (17). A mixing enhancement such as a static mixer (18, 19) is located in each of the feed lines (14, 16) between the gear pumps (15, 17) and the resin delivery ends (25, 26) of the feed lines. The resin-melt feed lines may be equipped with pressure indicators (27, 28, 32, 34) and pressure relief valves (23, 24). The resin-melt feed lines may also be equipped with pump accumulators (31, 33). Resin melt pressure created by the gear pumps (15, 17) forces a piston inside the accumulator back to the desired position. The accumulators (31, 33) can also be used to maintain constant pressure in the feed stock. Resin can be recycled from the accumulators (31, 33) into the melt blender (11).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Mark L. La Forest, Christopher S. Wahlers, Roger W. Holloway
  • Patent number: 6790026
    Abstract: A method and system for co-molding a thermoplastic material with a thermoplastic sandwich material to form a thermoplastic sandwich article having a thermoplastic inner portion are provided. In one embodiment, the thermoplastic material may be a composite material and the article is a deep-drawn article. In this embodiment, the method and system include a female die having an article-defining cavity defined by inner surfaces of the female die and an outer male die for forcing an inner portion of a blank of thermoplastic sandwich material having a cellular core and a predetermined amount of thermoplastic composite material placed on the blank into the female die along a substantially vertical axis and against the inner surfaces of the female die to obtain deep-drawn sandwich material. In a second embodiment in which the article formed is not deep-drawn, the outer male die is not required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Patent Holding Company
    Inventors: Francis Vandangeot, Emmanuel Boivin, Loic Durual
  • Patent number: 6783718
    Abstract: A mold to make a plastics material piece includes two parts defining a cavity corresponding to the piece to be made, each part has a peripheral zone for coming into contact with the other part's peripheral zone to define the mold's joint face. One part is made up of two blocks, namely a central block and a peripheral block, the two blocks suitable for sliding relative to each other in the mold closure direction, and the peripheral block capable of movement so as to move the peripheral zone away from the edges of the sheet. A method of making a plastics material piece includes placing a sheet in a part of a mold, moving a peripheral block, closing the mold, and moving the peripheral block to a molding position while keeping the first and second peripheral zones in contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Assignee: Compagnie Plastic Omnium
    Inventors: Charles-Guillaume Blanchon, Thierry Vuaillat
  • Publication number: 20040119201
    Abstract: Apparatus for manufacturing molded products with an EMI/RFI/ESD shield. The apparatus includes shaping apparatus for automatically shaping a mesh blank into a mesh insert on a fixture, and a robot for removing the insert from the fixture and placing it in a molding machine in preparation for molding the insert into a molded product. Also disclosed is a method for manufacturing molded products involving the steps of automatically forming the blank into a mesh insert and automatically transferring the insert to a molding machine using a robot. A holding tool may be provided for the robot to use in transferring the insert to the molding machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Applicant: Siegel-Robert, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul C. Burton, William M. Matich
  • Patent number: 6719551
    Abstract: A thermoplastic molding process uses the thermoplastic molding apparatus to mold a part of variable thickness from a slab of material heated during extrusion. The thermoplastic molding system includes a thermoplastic extrusion die for the extrusion of a thermoplastic slab. The extrusion die has adjustable die gate members for varying the thickness of the extruded material in different parts of the extruded slab. A plurality of molds are mounted to the platform to feed one mold into a loading position while a second mold is in a release position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Inventor: Dale E. Polk, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20040047933
    Abstract: A mold apparatus for making multi-component products includes (i) a rotatable turret with a plurality of product connector pairs attached to opposite sides of the turret, (ii) a first mold disposed proximate to the turret and (iii) a second mold disposed on the opposite side of the turret. The first mold has a plurality of cavities for molding a first molded layer of the multi-component product, and the second mold has a plurality of cavities for molding a second layer onto the first molded layer. Each product connector is rotatable about its longitudinal axis to allow the mold apparatus to make multi-component products having first molded layers and second molded layers with indentations and/or protuberances disposed in a variety of orientations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2002
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventors: Charles Kroeger, Martel B. Geibel
  • Publication number: 20040021247
    Abstract: The invention relates to a process and a production installation for producing shell-shaped, fibre-reinforced plastic parts. According to the invention, it is intended that the plastic parts can be produced efficiently, in an automated manner which is flexible with respect to the process and workpiece and is operationally reliable. For this purpose, the following process steps are provided: a blank of the endless fibre mat corresponding to a workpiece is placed in an automated manner by industrial robots onto a clamping frame surrounding the female mould and is taken over by the clamping frame in a clamping manner and in such a way that it can slide after itself against a defined resistance. Wide-ranging accessibility required for this is created by a horizontally movable unit, comprising a female mould and a clamping frame, being temporarily moved completely out from the forming press and moved back again into the forming press after completion of loading.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventors: Uwe Habisreitinger, Bernhard Nordmann, Michael Ostgathe
  • Publication number: 20040022884
    Abstract: A resin molding apparatus including a holder for controllably holding and releasing a lead frame having a first and second principal surfaces and a plurality of elements mounted on at least one of the first and second principal surfaces. The resin molding apparatus also includes a transporter for transporting the holder with the lead frame from a first position via a second position to a third position. Further it has a first and second molding dice controllably adjoining the first and second principal surfaces of the lead frame arranged on the second position, respectively, so that a molding cavity is defined therebetween, which covers the element of the lead frame. A resin injector is provided for injecting resin into the molding cavity; and also an elevator is arranged on the second position for elevating the holder with the lead frame in a direction perpendicular to the first and second principal surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2003
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Applicant: Renesas Technology Corp.
    Inventor: Itaru Matsuo
  • Patent number: 6682819
    Abstract: Device to produce polyurethane articles (37) covered by a film (19), including a mold (30) comprising a female part (13) and a male part (12) defining a molding cavity (18) inside which polyurethane material (24) is able to be injected. The device also comprises, in association with the perimeter edge of said female part (13), means able to exert a connection function in substantial cooperation with the zone of discontinuity between said female part (13) and said male part (12). The means comprise a movable annular ring-nut (22) including a first position (22a) to load a segment of said film (19) in order to insert said segment inside the mold, and a second position (22b) at least partly overlapping on the perimeter of said female part (13) in order to cooperate with said female part (13) during the molding of said polyurethane material (24).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: G.M.P. Poliuretani SpA
    Inventor: Mario Damo
  • Patent number: 6682680
    Abstract: A method of applying a protective strip to an edge of a wood product piece. The process uses a set of aligned rollers and a belt apparatus that includes a pair of rollers having a shoe positioned between them and a belt fitted about the rollers and the shoe. The distance from the belt to the first set of aligned rollers is substantially equal to the width of the wood product piece. The wood product piece is placed between the first set of aligned rollers and the belt apparatus and resin is applied to the edge the wood product piece. The wood products piece is then squeezed between the first set of aligned rollers and the belt apparatus. At least a subset of the rollers are driven to move the wood products piece along the belt apparatus, thereby causing the resin to be squeezed into the edge of the wood products piece. Finally, the resin is cured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Joined Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert J. Peterman
  • Patent number: 6679696
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided that includes a mold that includes a first cavity defining a toothbrush body, a first injection unit in fluid communication with the first cavity and a second cavity, and a second injection unit also in fluid communication with the first cavity. An apparatus is also provided that includes a mold that includes a first cavity defining a toothbrush body, a second cavity defining a toothbrush body, where the first cavity and the second cavity define substantially identical toothbrush bodies, a first injection unit in fluid communication with the first cavity and a second injection unit incapable of being in fluid communication with the second cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Gillette Canada Company
    Inventors: Mark Edward McConnell, Michael Frank Fryauf, Declan Connolly, Gerald S. Szczech
  • Publication number: 20030224079
    Abstract: A molding apparatus for molding semiconductor devices using a molding compound in which a mold is automatically treated with a mold releasing agent is provided. A lead frame strip in-magazine part and a tablet loading part are designed so that dummy lead frame strips and releasing tablets used in a mold releasing agent treatment process are automatically supplied to the molding apparatus in a mold releasing agent treatment mode or a mold cleaning mode. After the mold releasing agent treatment mode or mold cleaning mode is complete, the molding apparatus is switched back to a normal molding process and normal lead frame strips and molding compound tablets are to the mold part. In addition, a pick-up part and a stack magazine part are designed to distinguish by-products generated during the mold releasing agent treatment process from normally molded products by switching from a normal molding process to either a mold releasing agent treatment process or a mold cleaning process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventors: Kyung-Soo Park, Tae-Hyuk Kim, Hoon Chang, Sung-Soo Lee
  • Patent number: 6649118
    Abstract: An in-mold labeler (24) and a method for in-mold labeling a rotary plastic blow molding machine (22) includes a dispensing assembly (38) having a dispensing wheel (42) that is rotatably mounted on a base (40) and supports a plurality of dispensing head assemblies (46) each of which includes a support (48) and a dispensing head (50). An actuator (56) including a first cam mechanism (58) and a second cam mechanism (64) moves the support (48) of each dispensing head assembly (46) along the rotary path of movement of an adjacent open mold (30) of the blow molding machine and angularly positions the support in alignment with a moving mold parting plane of the adjacent open mold in a manner that permits high speed operation of the in-mold labeling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Plastipak Packaging, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard L. Dunlap, Edward L. Sanford, David M. Amirault
  • Patent number: 6648621
    Abstract: In the method, after the pattern-bearing film is fed to the female mold, the distal end of the film is fixed under a lower portion of the female mold, and at the same time the film is retreated by a force from the film supply portion. Thus, this tightens up the film so that the slacks or wrinkles cannot be formed on the film. Therefore, the film can be fortunately spread around the parting surface of the female mold. In the apparatus, the film suppressing frame is pressed to the female mold through the sliding rod arranged in the female mold, in such a manner that the female mold embraces the frame. Thus, the pressing of the frame is performed by a simple structure, and the film is accurately positioned to the internal surface of the female mold. Also, the film suppressing frame is constituted to advance from and retreat to the female mold. Thus, this causes a space between the both molds and an outside standby position to be useless. A space around the apparatus can be effectively utilized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinpei Oono, Kazushi Miyazawa, Keiji Hanamoto, Takashi Tarutani, Takashi Matano, Kazuhisa Kobayashi, Hiroyuki Atake
  • Patent number: 6634877
    Abstract: An injection molding machine for forming a multi-layer plastic article by over molding where the second layer of the article includes a portion having a different geometrical profile than the first. The injection mold machine comprises an array of one or more cores which engage arrays of one or more first cavity and arrays of one or more composite cavities. Each composite cavity is formed from the combination of a second cavity and a cavity extension which carries at least a portion of the different geometrical profile. In one embodiment, the cavity extension comprises a pair of cavity portions which are mounted adjacent the core to laterally moveable slides on a movable platen. In another embodiment, the cavity extension is a single element which is moved between a disengaged position wherein the core can be inserted into the first cavity and an engaged position wherein the core is inserted into the composite cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Assignee: Husky Injection Molding Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Robert Sicilia, Robert Schad, Tom Mcginley, Doug Hietkamp, Bruce Catoen
  • Publication number: 20030118681
    Abstract: Methods and systems for the manufacture of reinforcing preforms for structural composite products. Minimum contact eyelets reduce friction in the supply system for string reinforcing materials. Also, preforms of various configurations and thicknesses can be produced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2003
    Publication date: June 26, 2003
    Inventors: Jeffrey Scott Dahl, Eric Daniel Kleven, Norman Gerald Chavka, Carl Frederick Johnson
  • Publication number: 20030107142
    Abstract: A system is proposed for encapsulating in plastics material leadframe items comprising an IC wired to a leadframe. Dust of the plastics material is removed from the encapsulation system, and in particular from those items where dust principally accumulates, such as the surfaces of the moulds. To reduce the level of dust which enters the moulding region, the path along which the leadframe items are conveyed to the moulding region is closed at times when the leadframe items are not being transported there. Additionally, the leadframe items are conveyed to the moulding region under a cover including a vacuum source, so that the dust is continually sucked away from them.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2001
    Publication date: June 12, 2003
    Applicant: ASM Technology Singapore Pte Ltd.
    Inventors: See Yap Ong, Kock Hien Wee, Shu Chuen Ho, Teng Hock Kuah, Jian Wu
  • Publication number: 20030107141
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for the manufacture of well equipment with permanently mounted ladder steps, and wherein the method uses mould parts for forming a mould cavity, which mould parts comprise mould elements that will, following discharge of the cast well equipment, leave a number of mounting apertures in the well equipment, which mounting apertures are located in such a manner that the anchoring parts of the ladder steps can be driven thereinto. The invention also relates to an apparatus for exercising the method, wherein the apparatus comprises a frame with a first arm on which a number of ladder-step grippers are configured, each of which being configured for receiving and securing at least one ladder step.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2002
    Publication date: June 12, 2003
    Inventor: S?oslash;ren Brorsbl
  • Patent number: 6572811
    Abstract: A method is provided for rapidly forming a cementitious panel. A cementitious mixture is introduced into a mold configured to provide the desired surface appearance and profile of the cementitious panel. The cementitious mixture is then subject to an accelerated curing process by applying microwave energy to the cementitious mixture for a predetermined time period. After a relatively short resting or cooling period, the resulting cementitious panel is ready to be removed from the mold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: Custom Building Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: William C. Heirich
  • Publication number: 20030091675
    Abstract: A resin multilayer molding method in which a skin material having a resin decorating layer on a surface and a core-material resin are integrally molded in a mold, comprising the steps of: presetting a relationship of a glass transition point (Tgs) of the resin decorating layer of the skin material and a supply temperature (Tc) of a molten resin forming a core material to satisfy Tgs<Tc, and performing molding on a condition that a maximum temperature (Tsm) of the resin decorating layer of the skin material during clamping satisfies Tsm>Tgs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2002
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Applicant: UBE INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventors: Akio Okamoto, Etsuo Okahara
  • Patent number: 6551543
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for producing a two-chamber tube with a dividing wall (9) that extends into the tube head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Assignee: Aisa Automation Industrielle SA
    Inventors: Gerhard Keller, Jean-Pierre Voigtmann
  • Patent number: 6548006
    Abstract: A plastic material injection molding machine comprises a mold having at least two mold portions and a handling system adapted to be inserted between the mold portions when the mold is in its open position, for transferring an article between the handling system and a predetermined mold portion. The handling system, moreover, comprises a transfer plate supported loosely therein. The handling system, further, is adapted to approach the predetermined mold portion such that prior to the transfer of the article a first reference means on the predetermined mold portion can be brought into a registering position with a second reference means on the transfer plate. A clutch is provided for bridging the loose support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Hekuma Herbst Maschinenbau GmbH
    Inventor: Richard Herbst
  • Patent number: 6544457
    Abstract: An injection molding apparatus for manufacturing dental floss holders has at least one strand of dental floss from a supply spool extended through the space between mating mold pieces and thereafter to a take-up device. From each injection stage of the molding cycle a rack of connected dental floss holders is produced. Tension of the floss is maintained from the upstream supply spool by a first tensioning device through the mold to the downstream end by the take-up device. During each injection cycle the take-up device engages another rack of molded parts and moves it to a downstream position where it is severed from the strand of floss while it maintains the tension in the floss upstream of the severed rack. This is achieved by the take-up device engaging at least two successive racks downstream of the mold and using the rack closest to the mold to maintain tension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Assignee: Placontrol, Inc.
    Inventor: Alan J. Rieser
  • Patent number: 6540495
    Abstract: System for the manufacture of reinforcing preforms for structural composite products. The air flows for the manufacturing stations are optimized by providing a separate air system for each cell and providing seals between the net-edge blocks and the mold portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Scott Dahl, Norman Gerald Chavka, Carl Frederick Johnson, Eric Daniel Kleven
  • Patent number: 6527533
    Abstract: Systems for the manufacture of reinforcing preforms for structural composite products. Minimum contact eyelets reduce friction in the supply system for string reinforcing materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Scott Dahl, Eric Daniel Kleven, Gerald Norman Chavka, Carl Frederick Johnson
  • Patent number: 6503073
    Abstract: A method and system for casting a thermoset layer over a golf ball precursor product is disclosed herein. The system includes multiple stations connected by a conveyor system. The thermoset flowable material is dispensed into a plurality of cavities on each of the mold halves. A plurality of golf ball precursor products are then centered and inserted into the first mold half cavities. The mold halves are mated, heated and cooled. Then, at a de-molding station, the mold halves are separated and the thermoset layered golf balls are removed from the second mold half. A preferred thermoset material is a thermoset polyurethane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: Callaway Golf Company
    Inventors: Gary G. Marshall, Pijush K. Dewanjee
  • Patent number: 6499983
    Abstract: A method and system for casting a thermoset layer over a golf ball precursor product is disclosed herein. The system includes multiple stations connected by a conveyor system. The thermoset flowable material is dispensed into a plurality of cavities on each of the mold halves. A plurality of golf ball precursor products are then centered and inserted into the first mold half cavities. The mold halves are mated, heated and cooled. Then, at a de-molding station, the mold halves are separated and the thermoset layered golf balls are removed from the second mold half. A preferred thermoset material is a thermoset polyurethane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Assignee: Callaway Golf Company
    Inventors: Gary G. Marshall, Pijush K. Dewanjee
  • Patent number: 6497566
    Abstract: Systems for the manufacture of reinforcing preforms for structural composite products. The robotic application system allows use of a single robot in a multiple cell system, and provides offline programming of the robotic routine. The robot moves between the cells on a track system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2002
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Scott Dahl, Norman Gerald Chavka, Carl Frederick Johnson
  • Publication number: 20020185778
    Abstract: A multilayer tube shoulder and method for manufacture wherein a first material component is injected into a cavity (22) and then removed from the cavity on a support (12) while in a partly-plastic state. Thereafter, following insertion of the first material component into a second cavity (23), a second material component is injected around the first material component, and thereby leads to a positive connection between the first and second material components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2002
    Publication date: December 12, 2002
    Applicant: FOBOHA GmbH
    Inventor: Rainer Armbruster
  • Patent number: 6478569
    Abstract: A hybrid injection molding machine that has the capability to draw an decorative or other sheet into a mold cavity prior to injection into the mold has opposing male and female mold parts. One of the mold parts has an insert formed from a porous metal so that a vacuum may be drawn through the insert in order to draw a decorative sheet into all aspects of the insert cavity. The decorative sheet is held in place with a retention mechanism that is selectively attachable to either of the two mold blocks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Assignee: Slipmate Company
    Inventors: Vincent Masterson, Steven Matecki, Daniel Darby, Gregory Peterson
  • Patent number: 6464483
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for receiving and transporting molded parts in order to especially permit the removal of plastic molded parts produced in injection molding machines from the cavities, and to permit the transport of the molded parts through a number of work stations, without the use of separate handling systems. According to the invention, circulating transfer frames are provided from which retaining elements project and reach into the cavity to closely abut the mold. The molded part is bonded to the retaining element during injection molding of the molded part and is thus fixed in the transfer frame for transport to additional work stations. The molded part is removed from the retaining elements at the end of the transport line. In a modification, the molded part is molded directly or via intermediate pieces onto a circulating rope or a chain conveyor, or on rods mounted on a rope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Assignee: Krauss-Maffei Kunststofftechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Peter Lichtinger
  • Patent number: 6461558
    Abstract: An injection molding apparatus and a method of encapsulating integrated circuits which include a plurality of molding presses, such as transfer molding presses for encapsulating integrated circuits, which are mounted on an indexable rotary table. Stationary loading and unloading stations are arranged at spaced angular locations around the table for loading an insert into the mold cavities. A controller is provided to rotate with the molding presses for individually controlling function thereof such as opening and closing of the presses and temperature and pressure in the molds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Assignee: Fastech System(s) Pte Ltd.
    Inventor: Hans Lothar Berghoff
  • Publication number: 20020136790
    Abstract: A tool for multi-component injection molding of plastic toothbrush bodies 4 for toothbrushes has two tool halves 1, 1′which can be opened and closed. In one tool half 1 a linearly movable transfer device 6 is arranged. The hollow mold spaces 2 for injection molding the first component are formed exclusively by the two tool halves 1, 1′. For transferring the injection-molded blanks (3) in the second station, the transfer device 6 moves into the area of the injection-molded blanks 3, picks them up by vacuum suction cups 11, and transfers the injection-molded blanks 3 by linear movement into the second station.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2001
    Publication date: September 26, 2002
    Applicant: Braun Formenbau GmbH
    Inventor: Klaus Buhler
  • Patent number: 6454988
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for applying labels to cylindrical portions of plastic bottles by in-mold labeling utilizes an indexing label magazine which dispenses labels to first label engaging heads and, following indexing of said label magazine, dispenses labels to second label engaging heads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Assignee: Autotec, Inc.
    Inventor: Bart D. Condon
  • Patent number: 6439870
    Abstract: An apparatus for the automated production of ophthalmic lenses, particularly compound lenses having a plastic coating on a plastic lens is described. A mold, after rotational orientation, is placed in a gimbal assembly to provide for the proper tilt. This gimbal assembly forms part of a fixture attached to an indexing means which moves for complete assembly of a molding fixture and then moves the molding fixture through a chamber to cure the resin. A preform, after rotational orientation, is held, by a preform gripper placed above the mold, and with sufficient clearance between the mold and the preform to allow the correct resin thickness during the curing portion of the process. The fixture is also provided with members to firmly grip the preform gripper so as to maintain its orientation throughout the curing process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Assignee: Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary Marceau, Dan Boulay, Ivan Nunez, Charles Foster, Eric Dogan, Joseph A. Bishop, Amitava Gupta, Steven Hamblin, Edgar Menezes, Venkat Sekharipuram, Ron Kok, Michael Hompus, Jack van Nunen, Marc Evers, Edwin van Doorn
  • Patent number: 6436327
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming golf ball cores with a generally spherical nucleus at its center is characterized by the use of a transfer plate which insures that the nucleus is centered within the core. The core is formed in upper and lower mold plates which contain upper and lower hemispherical cavities, respectively, which are adapted to mate to define a spherical cavity for the core. The transfer plate is arranged between the mold plates and includes a support for the nucleus to position the nucleus in the center of a pair of upper and lower slugs of core material which are molded in the upper and lower hemispherical cavities. When the mold plates are initially brought together with the transfer plate arranged therebetween and with the slugs arranged on opposite sides of the transfer plate, the slugs are partially molded in the hemispherical cavities with the nucleus being pressed into one of the slugs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Assignee: Spalding Sports Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Cloutier, Jon Wigby, Vincent J. Simonds
  • Publication number: 20020100994
    Abstract: A high throughput, automated process for coating ceramic monoliths used as catalytic converters that overcomes problems with coating monoliths individually in a mold. The monoliths are provided with end caps to cover the open functional ends, then loaded serially into an inlet channel leading to an extrusion chamber. As each monolith is pushed into the channel, one monolith enters the extrusion chamber, and the monolith just coated in the extrusion chamber is made to exit onto a finished part conveyor. Thereafter, the end caps are removed and cleaned for reuse on new monoliths yet to be coated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2001
    Publication date: August 1, 2002
    Inventor: Karel Sander
  • Publication number: 20020101005
    Abstract: The invention is related to a device (1) and to a method for the injection molding of articles (25) with several plastic material components. This device (1) comprises a first half mold arranged as fixed (3), a second half-mold (6) arranged as movable relative to the first half-mold (3) for the purpose of opening and closing the device (1). In addition, the device (1) comprises at least two further half-molds (10, 11), which are arranged as jointly movable relative to the first and second half-molds (3, 6), and which in the closing position of the device (1) are situated between the first and the second half-molds (3, 6), so that in two parting planes (32, 33), namely in a first and in a second parting plane (32, 33), cavities (20, 21) are formed. The two further half-molds (10, 11) arranged as jointly movable comprise means (22), which in the case of an opened device (1) serve for the transportation of the article (25) out of a first cavity (21.1) into a second cavity (21.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2002
    Publication date: August 1, 2002
    Applicant: FOBOHA GmbH
    Inventors: Werner Bodmer, Rainer Armbruster
  • Patent number: 6416706
    Abstract: Apparatus for molding articles from moldable material in a mold includes end of arm tooling for an articulated robot arm associated with the mold, where the end of arm tooling includes an insert transfer member mounted on the end of the articulated robot arm. The insert transfer member has an insert holder for gripping the insert. The apparatus also includes a charger for generating an electric field that causes the insert to adhere onto a surface of the mold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Assignee: SAS Automation Ltd.
    Inventors: Trent P. Fisher, John M. Westbeld
  • Patent number: 6409492
    Abstract: A method and system for inserting a golf ball precursor product into a cavity of a mold half for precision centering is disclosed herein. The precision centering allows for the concentricity of core in relation to the cover of a golf ball. The system includes an insertion mechanism that allows for the vertical movement of a plurality of vacuum cups along a longitudinal pathway. The vacuum cups retain the golf ball precursor products and insert each into a corresponding cavity on a mold half. As the vacuum cups are lowered along the longitudinal pathway, the mold half is elevated along the longitudinal pathway. The mold half and vacuum cups meet at an insertion position where the golf ball precursor products are released from the vacuum cups and set within a thermoset material contained in each of the cavities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Assignee: Callaway Golf Company
    Inventor: Gary G. Marshall
  • Publication number: 20020066976
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming golf ball cores with a generally spherical nucleus at its center is characterized by the use of a transfer plate which insures that the nucleus is centered within the core. The core is formed in upper and lower mold plates which contain upper and lower hemispherical cavities, respectively, which are adapted to mate to define a spherical cavity for the core. The transfer plate is arranged between the mold plates and includes a support for the nucleus to position the nucleus in the center of a pair of upper and lower slugs of core material which are molded in the upper and lower hemispherical cavities. When the mold plates are initially brought together with the transfer plate arranged therebetween and with the slugs arranged on opposite sides of the transfer plate, the slugs are partially molded in the hemispherical cavities with the nucleus being pressed into one of the slugs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2000
    Publication date: June 6, 2002
    Inventors: Mark Cloutier, Jon Wigby, Vincent J. Simonds
  • Patent number: 6386849
    Abstract: The invention is a mold apparatus for making multi-component products. The apparatus includes an elongate turret, a plurality of product connection pairs attached on opposite sides of the turret, a first mold disposed proximate to the turret and a second mold disposed on the opposite side of the turret. The first mold has a plurality of cavities for molding a first molded layer of the multi-component product, and the second mold has cavities for molding a second layer onto the first molded layer. The turret is rotatable between the first mold and the second mold by rotation about its longitudinal axis of the turret.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Assignee: Caco Pacific Corporation
    Inventors: Charles Kroeger, Gary Unitt
  • Patent number: 6386851
    Abstract: A multi-stage unit for processing a web packaging material in a machine for packaging food products, including a first processing station, a second processing station and a system for indexing the web packaging material comprising a first feeding device for step-feeding the web packaging material through the first processing station, a second feeding device for step-feeding the web packaging material through the second processing station, and a control unit controlling the first feeding device in response to a sensor detecting a first index code preprinted on the web packaging material, and the second feeding device in response to a second sensor detecting a second index code made on the web packaging material at said first processing station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Assignee: Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance S.A.
    Inventor: Per Gustafsson
  • Publication number: 20020051830
    Abstract: To provide a moldingl die apparatus wherein simultaneous molding of two or more molded products of different sizes can be carried out. An apparatus for molding of resin products includes a pair of mutually confronting metal dies (30, 50) that are moveable toward and away from each other, molding surfaces or portion (32 (34), 52, (54)) that cooperate in forming mold cavities and resin path (70) that lead injected molten resin from an injection machine to the cavities provided in the metal dies. Two or more cavities C16, C26 of different capacities are provided in the metal dies (30, 50). Simultaneous molding of two or more different resin products (16, 26) with the single molding apparatus increases the production efficiency of the resin products and reduces the production costs. Further, the installation space for the molding equipment, such as the molding apparatus, can be reduced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 1999
    Publication date: May 2, 2002
    Inventors: OSAMI TAKIKAWA, MAKOTO SANO
  • Publication number: 20020022064
    Abstract: A method and system for casting a thermoset layer over a golf ball precursor product is disclosed herein. The system includes multiple stations connected by a conveyor system. The thermoset flowable material is dispensed into a plurality of cavities on each of the mold halves. A plurality of golf ball precursor products are then centered and inserted into the first mold half cavities. The mold halves are mated, heated and cooled. Then, at a de-molding station, the mold halves are separated and the thermoset layered golf balls are removed from the second mold half. A preferred thermoset material is a thermoset polyurethane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Publication date: February 21, 2002
    Inventors: Gary G. Marshall, Pijush K. Dewanjee
  • Publication number: 20020020940
    Abstract: A resin tape substrate with a semiconductor chip mounted thereon is put to an attachment area surface of a cavity bottom surface, and a plurality of suction holes connected to a suction system are disposed in the attachment area surface, wherein the attachment area surface of the cavity is formed in a semiconductor resin mold, so that the molten resin given into the cavity does not flow into the back surface of the resin tape substrate which is sucked on the attachment area surface in the mold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2001
    Publication date: February 21, 2002
    Inventor: Mika Kiritani
  • Publication number: 20020022065
    Abstract: A method and system for inserting a golf ball precursor product into a cavity of a mold half for precision centering is disclosed herein. The precision centering allows for the concentricity of core in relation to the cover of a golf ball. The system includes an insertion mechanism that allows for the vertical movement of a plurality of vacuum cups along a longitudinal pathway. The vacuum cups retain the golf ball precursor products and insert each into a corresponding cavity on a mold half. As the vacuum cups are lowered along the longitudinal pathway, the mold half is elevated along the longitudinal pathway. The mold half and vacuum cups meet at an insertion position where the golf ball precursor products are released from the vacuum cups and set within a thermoset material contained in each of the cavities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Publication date: February 21, 2002
    Inventor: Gary G. Marshall
  • Patent number: 6325607
    Abstract: A decoration sheet is fed on a mold and then is heated to a temperature above a heat distortion temperature thereof, is conformed to the surface of a cavity of the mold by vacuum drawing. Then the molds are clamped, and a resin is injected to adhere the decoration sheet to the resin. The decoration sheet is preheated to a temperature below the heat distortion temperature by sheet preheating means before fed onto the mold. The decoration sheet preheated by the sheet preheating means is fed to the mold by sheet feeding means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Assignee: Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Atake
  • Publication number: 20010046527
    Abstract: A tablet rotary compression press for the manufacture of multi-layered tablets, comprising a rotationally driven rotor which has a die-plate with die-plate bores and top and bottom rams aligned towards the die-plate bores which are guided in ram guides of the rotor and are axially actuated by stationary control cams, an insertion device for a portion of the tablet-forming compacts which has two or more arms guided in a radially movable manner at the each end of which a compact is held and can be aligned towards a die-plate bore, wherein said rotor has circumferentially included thereon a support ring or support surfaces on which the compacts can be deposited in the positions approximately aligned towards the die-plate bores, the radial arms are disposed in the rotor, rotate therewith, and have radially movable gripping portions adapted to be radially moved to each other, and the rotor has provided therein a stationary guide with first and second guide cams the cam followers of which are interacted with by the
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2001
    Publication date: November 29, 2001
    Inventors: Ulrich Arndt, Thomas Heinrich, Jurgen Hinzpeter, Thomas Jacob, Peter Luneburg, Gert Stellmach, Ulrich Zeuschner
  • Publication number: 20010028133
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method of making artificial nail, including a printed pattern layer. A film having a transfer portion with a printed pattern is placed between two surfaces forming a cavity with a hole. A fluid resin is injected into the cavity through the hole and contacting the transfer portion. The resin solidifies and integrates with the transfer portion, which forms an artificial portion with the printed pattern. Also disclosed is an apparatus for use in making the artificial nail. The apparatus includes a mold including the two surfaces and a film supplier feeding the film with the transfer portion to the mold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2001
    Publication date: October 11, 2001
    Inventor: Young Soo Han