Including Elements Cooperating To Form Cells Patents (Class 428/72)
  • Patent number: 6322873
    Abstract: A thermally insulating bubble pack for use in framed structures, walls, crawl spaces and the like; or wrapping for cold water heaters, pipes and the like wherein the bubbles contain a fire retardant material. The improved bubble pack comprises a first film having a plurality of portions wherein each of the portions defines a cavity; a second film in sealed engagement with the first film to provide a plurality of closed cavities; the improvement comprising wherein the cavities contain a fluid or solid material. The flame retardant-containing bubble pack provides improved fire ratings, flame spread indices and smoke development numbers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Inventor: Furio Orologio
  • Publication number: 20010018109
    Abstract: A molding apparatus for use in forming a flexible substrate based package comprises a plurality of pots. Two flexible substrates are installed at two sides of the pots. A plurality of sets of chips mounted on the upper surface of the substrate wherein each set of chips is in an array arrangement. The molding apparatus further comprises a plurality of runners. Each runner independently extends from one side of the pot to one side of the substrate, and connects to a cavity of a upper part of a mold disposed on the substrate through a gate. The present invention characterized in that, the molding apparatus is provided with a first communication channel formed corresponding to one side of the substrate and a second communication channel formed corresponding to the other side of the substrate. The first and the second communication channels interconnect the cavities at two opposite sides thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2001
    Publication date: August 30, 2001
    Applicant: Advanced Semiconductor Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Shih-Chang Lee, Gwo Liang Weng
  • Patent number: 6242075
    Abstract: A multilayer ceramic device has top and bottom green ceramic layers machined and fired. Intermediate green ceramic layers are machined, have conductors laid down in the machined areas, are laminated, and are fired to form an enclosure layer. The areas of the layers which will be in contact with each other are coated with a bonding agent. The layers are aligned and bonded to form a structure having arbitrarily shaped, interior channels adjacent to the top and bottom layers which are not subject to detrimental nonplanarities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Company
    Inventors: Clinton C. Chao, Daniel J. Miller, Hubert A. VanderPlas
  • Patent number: 6224961
    Abstract: Porous, absorbent macrostructures having improved fluid handling capabilities that include inter-particle bonded aggregates, and are useful in absorbent articles, such as diapers, adult incontinence pads and sanitary napkins, are disclosed. The inter-particle bonded aggregates of these macrostructures are made from mixtures of particulate absorbent polymers having different fluid handling properties, different shapes, or both. These macrostructures can be made from a wider variety of hydrogel-forming absorbent polymers without sacrificing desired fluid handling properties, and without being prone to gel blocking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Kesyin F. Hsueh, Reiko Sasaki
  • Patent number: 6200664
    Abstract: A barrier for containing an explosion in a room or the like. The barrier is a structural panel comprising a base sheet, a plurality of truncated polyhedral elements secured to and projecting from the base sheet, and a face sheet covering and secured to the truncated apexes of the polyhedral elements. The face sheet is constructed to separate from the polyhedral elements to expose them in the event of an explosion. Each polyhedral element is constructed to collapse in the event of an explosion, is filled with a liquid, and has an opening therein that is closed by a closure device that is openable or removable in response to the collapse of the polyhedral element caused by an explosion. The openings in the polyhedral elements are of a size to effect a misting action of the liquid therein when it is ejected from the openings by the collapse of the polyhedral elements caused by the explosion. The liquid mist serves to absorb and dissipate the heat and energy of the explosion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Inventors: Ward Figge, John Crawford
  • Patent number: 6183823
    Abstract: A support device for a computer mouse (mouse pad) comprises, extending over the lower foil made of foam material, at least one thin, colored liquid layer which is enclosed between two foils welded together along the edge in a liquid-tight manner and is visible through the transparent foil or foils. The liquid occupies the available cavity only incompletely and it spreads out in puddle-like patterns to define void spaces which change continuously due to the actuation of the mouse, thereby providing the mouse pad with an optically interesting appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2001
    Assignee: Hirsch & Partner GmbH
    Inventor: Karl Hirsch
  • Patent number: 6174576
    Abstract: The invention relates to an element with a determined permeability, said element comprising a first layer and a second layer welded together with interposition of a band of fibers, so as to form a plurality of adjacent welding points, which are separated the one from the other, the fibers of the band having a melting temperature at most 5° C. higher than the melting temperature of at least one of said layers, whereby at the welding points, fibers of the band are molten into the welding lines, so that between two adjacent welding lines, fibers of the band are not molten and form a channel for the exchange of gases but avoiding the passage of solid particles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2001
    Inventor: Joseph Van de Ponseele
  • Patent number: 6139944
    Abstract: An electronic device 1 includes an electronic element 3 having an outer sheath 5 covering at least substantially the entire outer surface of the electronic element. The outer sheath 5 has three layers: a first thermoplastic layer 5a formed on at least substantially the entire outer surface of the electronic element; a thermoplastic resin layer 5a formed on at least substantially the entire outer surface of the first thermosetting layer 5a, and a second thermoplastic resin layer 5b formed on at least substantially the entire outer surface of the thermoplastic layer. The outer sheath is formed by placing an uncured thermosetting resin on the outer surface of the electronic element to form the first thermosetting resin layer placing an uncured thermosetting resin on the outer surface of the first thermosetting resin layer to form the thermoplastic layer and placing an uncured thermosetting resin layer on the thermoplastic layer to form the second thermosetting resin layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Assignee: Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kozo Moriyasu, Toshiya Oshima, Kunisaburo Tomono
  • Patent number: 6117519
    Abstract: A composite material having a core between the layers of reinforcing material that is formed from a plurality of separate and independent cells that are not physically linked to each other as is common with honeycomb structures or cores. Each cell is hollow and is preferably hexagonal in shape. The composite material is formed by placing one or more layers of the first side of the reinforcing material on the mold surface. Said core is then placed on the reinforcing and one or more layers of the second side of the reinforcing material is then placed on top of the core. An inner mold or vacuum bag, depending upon the application and type of reinforcing material, is placed upon the second side of the reinforcing material. Resin or bonding material is then distributed directly into the area of the cells between the two sides of reinforcing material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Inventor: Mark L. Burns
  • Patent number: 6117520
    Abstract: A honeycomb block comprises three sections of honeycomb elements characterized in that the cell size of each honeycomb element section decreases from a large size in one section to a smaller size in the neighboring sections and an even smaller size in the third section. The honeycomb block may be fabricated from strips of cardboard which are glued together to form the honeycomb cell structure. The honeycomb block may be used as an impact force absorbing element in a door of a vehicle where the cell size in each honeycomb element section decreases from a large size in one section to a smaller size in the neighboring section and the smallest sized cells is facing inward with respect to the passenger compartment of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Assignee: AB Volvo
    Inventors: Henk Wielinga, Piet Klomp
  • Patent number: 6114003
    Abstract: An insulation blanket including an inner core air cell made of metal and having a first side for receiving a first composite and a second side for receiving a second composite. The first composite having a first inner layer formed of a metal foil sheet, a first middle layer formed of ceramic based sheets, and a first outer layer formed of an intumescent, fire-retardant coating on a fiber glass sheet; and the second composite having a second inner layer formed of a metal foil sheet, a second middle layer formed of ceramic based sheets, and a second outer layer formed of an intumescent, fire-retardant coating on a fiber glass sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Assignee: No Fire Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Samuel Gottfried
  • Patent number: 6110562
    Abstract: An anode in a channel of a PALC display panel is composed of an electrically conductive core and a protective coating made of a material that is electrically conductive and is non-reactive with hydrogen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: Tektronix, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert D. Hinchliffe, Kevin J. Ilcisin, Thomas S. Buzak, Mark W. Roberson, Paul C. Martin
  • Patent number: 6106909
    Abstract: A support device for a computer mouse (mouse pad) comprises, extending over the lower foil made of foam material, at least one thin, colored liquid layer which is enclosed between two foils welded together along the edge in a liquid-tight manner and is visible through the transparent foil or foils. The liquid occupies the available cavity only incompletely and it spreads out in puddle-like patterns to define void spaces which change continuously due to the actuation of the mouse, thereby providing the mouse pad with an optically interesting appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: Hirsch & Partner GmbH
    Inventor: Karl Hirsch
  • Patent number: 6103347
    Abstract: An objective of the present invention is to provide a magnetic display panel capable of writing on both face and rear surfaces. A magnetic display panel, comprising a face substrate, a rear substrate, cell walls for forming a cell, for binding the face substrate and the rear substrate and for enclosing a dispersion liquid including a magnetic particle, wherein the cell walls having U-shaped cross sections are formed by bending and standing partially one or both of the face substrate and the rear substrate to almost 90 degrees, wherein a clearance of the U-shaped cross sections in each cell wall has an open angle of 0 to 20 degrees, wherein a base portion clearance of the U-shaped cross section is 0.1 mm to 1.0 mm, and wherein a top portion clearance of the U-shaped cross section is 0 to 1.0 mm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Pilot
    Inventors: Teruaki Nojima, Takao Yamaguchi, Sadao Tokorozawa
  • Patent number: 6095219
    Abstract: A method for splitting up a honeycomb panel, preferably for use as a separator for sheets and, particularly, breakable sheets such as glass sheets, starts with a sheet of honeycomb material with a cover layer on both sides. During the splitting up, each cover layer is cut from outside of the honeycomb toward the inside in order to flange the cover layer in situ to the inside.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Assignee: Bresin B.V.
    Inventor: Johannes P. L. M. Diderich
  • Patent number: 6066372
    Abstract: A solar heated windshield comprises two matching glass sheets with a hollow interlayer therebetween for inhibiting frost or ice formation on the outer glass sheet by collecting and retaining solar energy within the interlayer. The inner sheet includes a tinted film such that solar energy passing through the windshield is partially deflected into the interlayer to warm the air contained therein. Deflected solar energy may also impinge on or be deflected into a reservoir containing a heat retentive and conductive liquid such as propylene glycol. Air within the interlayer will be warmed repetitively by the heated glycol through the fluid motion of convection. Heat may be transferred by convection to air throughout the interlayer or only to specifically focused areas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2000
    Inventor: Brent Miles
  • Patent number: 6060144
    Abstract: A hollow panel having a cover material bonded thereto includes a first wall having an inner surface and a substantially planar outer surface. A second wall opposes the first wall so as to define a hollow space therebetween and has at least one protrusion formed therein. Each protrusion has a tip which is integrally joined to the inner surface of the first wall to form a double-walled rib bridging the hollow space. The double-walled rib has integrally joined opposing walls such that an outer surface of the second wall is substantially planar. The cover material is bonded to the outer surface of the first wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Assignee: Kyoraku Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Isao Kimura, Minoru Kimura
  • Patent number: 6037033
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a unique thermal insulation panel. More specifically, the present invention is directed to a vacuum insulated panel formed of a highly impermeable evacuated envelope that is supported by a thermal barrier made of a macro-structural support structure having a cell or void size of 0.5 micron or greater. Preferably, the panel includes a getter material. Further, the present invention is directed to a thermal insulation barrier of a macro-structural structure. Preferably, the barrier is formed of elements having a geometric shape of a repetitive three dimensional design that permits stacking of one thermal insulation element with another thermal insulation element having a complimentary geometric shape, and which locks movement of adjacent thermal insulation elements in at least one of the directions 90.degree. to the stacking direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Inventor: Rick Cole Hunter
  • Patent number: 6020043
    Abstract: A sealing mat is proposed for use in civil and underground engineering for the insulation of soil against liquids, especially water, having two outer layers consisting of a fibrous material, between which is placed a powder of mineral sealing material, e.g. bentonite, and the two layers are connected with each other, whereby between the two layers (1, 2) an aero-fleece is place, in which the powder (4) of mineral sealing material is stored, and the two layers (1, 2) are sewn to each other with the aero-fleece located in between.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2000
    Inventor: Paul Schreck
  • Patent number: 6017606
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a reusable thermal pack that comprises a bag formed of a water-permeable fabric defining a plurality of laterally adjacent compartments, and a superabsorbent polymer disposed in the bag compartments, wherein the polymer forms a gel in the presence of an aqueous solution, and the bag compartments are gel-retainable. The thermal pack of the present invention can be applied as a cold or hot compress for medicinal purposes, and also as an aid for cooling down following exercise. The thermal pack of the present invention, once hydrated in the presence of the aqueous solution, becomes cool and stays cool for several days without refrigeration, and can be made cooler if chilled in the refrigerator or freezer, or warmed if placed in the microwave, if desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2000
    Assignee: Danscott Enterprises
    Inventors: Linda Sage, Don Sage
  • Patent number: 6007890
    Abstract: A multilayered insulating panel having improved acoustic insulating properties and mechanical strength has two outer facings and a soft synthetic foam core having cavities. The foam core with the cavities is in intimate contact with the facings. The cavities are arranged so that the gaps between the core material and the outer facings are in alternate patterns with respect to the opposing outer facings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Assignee: The Dow Chemical Company
    Inventor: Jean-Philippe Jacques DeBlander
  • Patent number: 5997971
    Abstract: A wood preservative wrap includes a body divided by liquid impervious grid lines into a plurality of pockets filled with wood preservative. The body is trimmable along the grid lines without compromising the containment of the wood preservative.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: Genics Inc.
    Inventors: Wesley James Wall, Calvin Lee Michael Wall
  • Patent number: 5981030
    Abstract: A roofing membrane has a quantity of water-retaining particles fixed in the upper surface of the membrane. A fleece web affixed to the membrane surface in a quilt-like manner may provide zones of selectable size for holding the particles in place. By varying the amount of the absorber particles, the water-retaining capacity of the roofing membrane may be varied to the particular intended use, such as on a flat roof or a sloped roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Assignee: FAMOS GmbH
    Inventors: Bertram W. Haupt, Siegfried Heinz, Wolfgang Rudolf
  • Patent number: 5972452
    Abstract: A sheet shaped oxygen absorbing member according to the present invention comprises a lamination in the order of a separator layer, a base layer having an adhesive layer, an oxygen absorbing layer and a gas permeable layer, the gas permeable layer being directly secured to the base layer at the periphery of the lamination, and is structured to be capable of attaching by readily peeling off from the separator layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Hideyuki Takahashi, Hidetoshi Hatakeyama, Futoshi Nakaya
  • Patent number: 5948520
    Abstract: A support device for a computer mouse (mouse pad) comprises, extending over the lower foil made of foam material, at least one thin, colored liquid layer which is enclosed between two foils welded together along the edge in a liquid-tight manner and is visible through the transparent foil or foils. The liquid occupies the available cavity only incompletely and it spreads out in puddle-like patterns to define void spaces which change continuously due to the actuation of the mouse, thereby providing the mouse pad with an optically interesting appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Assignee: Hirsch & Partner GmbH
    Inventor: Karl Hirsch
  • Patent number: 5914175
    Abstract: This invention provides for a composite panel (10) which may be mounted to a base surface (12) of a building structure (16) to allow for absorbing impact or other force loading considerations. The composite panel (10) includes a first core (20) which is made up of a number of first cell members (22) which are located next to each other and form through passageways (32) extending in a longitudinal direction (24). Mounted in adhesive contact with the first core (20) is a second core (26) formed of a number of second cell members (28) which are located next to each other and provide for second core through passageways (44) which extend in a transverse direction to produce a cross-pattern with respect to the first and second through passageways (32 and 44). The first core (20) and the second core (26) are adhesively mounted to each other to provide an overall laminated composite panel structure which blocks access to the window or door areas (14) of the building structure (16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1999
    Assignee: Duraframe Window Shutter Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Nudo, James Fullwood
  • Patent number: 5904972
    Abstract: Large composite structures are produced using a vacuum assisted resin transfer molding process. The structures incorporate cores, which may be hollow cells or foam blocks. A plurality of cores, each of which may be wrapped with a fiber material, is arranged in a layer on a mold with a fiber material arranged to form face skins. The assembly is sealed under a vacuum bag to a mold surface. One or more main feeder conduits are provided in communication with a resin distribution network of smaller channels which facilitates flow of uncured resin into and through the fiber material. The resin distribution network may comprise a network of grooves formed in the surfaces or the cores and/or rounded corners of the cores. The network of smaller channels may also be provided between the vacuum bag and the fiber material, either integrally in the vacuum bag or via a separate distribution medium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 18, 1999
    Assignee: TPI Technology Inc.
    Inventors: George C. Tunis, III, Steven J. Winckler
  • Patent number: 5902660
    Abstract: Enhanced fit and comfort are imparted to a shoe vamp by a double buffered air cushion assembly having an inner air cushion and an outer air cushion wherein the inflation pressure of the inner air cushion is greater than that of the outer air cushion for providing different buffering and shock-absorbing functions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1999
    Inventor: Ing Chung Huang
  • Patent number: 5871849
    Abstract: A wood substitute turning blank and method of making the same is described. The turning blank includes a body having an outer shell of relatively low tensile strength material positioned about a rotational axis of the body. An inner core of relatively high tensile strength material is positioned along the rotational axis of the body. The high tensile strength of the inner core allows this turning blank to be turned at high speed on a lathe or the like. The high tensile strength of the core enhances the overall tensile strength of the finished product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1999
    Inventor: Guy Joseph Lepine
  • Patent number: 5869159
    Abstract: A method and a kit for cushioning and covering a pole is disclosed. First and second sheets of cushioning material are wrapped around a pole, with the second sheet of cushioning material being cut to fit the height of the pole. A first cover sheet is applied to the cushion sheet and is secured in place to cover a portion of the pole. A second cover sheet is applied to the cushion sheet and overlaps the first cover sheet to finish the pole, thereby providing a cushioned pole that is covered with an abrasion resistant, tough cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1999
    Inventor: Carl Padilla
  • Patent number: 5846629
    Abstract: A continuous strip of generally rectangular body portion which is foam filled can be serpentinely wrapped around the handle or steering wheel of a tool or vehicle to isolate the transmission of high frequency vibrations from the user's hands. This will significantly reduce the incidence of occupational disabilities associated with the use of these tools and hand steered vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1998
    Assignee: Lord Corporation
    Inventor: James T. Gwinn
  • Patent number: 5846630
    Abstract: A magnetic migration display panel including a dispersion liquid layer composed of a magnetic particle, a dispersion medium composed of an organic solvent, a thickening agent composed of fatty acid bis-amide with a hydroxyl group having a melting point of 120.degree. C. to 160.degree. C., and a coloring material as desired, on a substrate is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1998
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Pilot
    Inventors: Hiroshi Tazaki, Teruaki Nojima
  • Patent number: 5830553
    Abstract: A shock-absorbing cushion comprising two sheets peripherally sealed and a plurality of half-through holes and/or grooves whose circumferential walls constitute a cubic supporting structure shock-absorbing cushion has a hollow interior possible to be filled with air, gas, liquid or semi solid to change its inner pressure, and is able to be combined with one another to be applied to sports goods, shoe soles, etc., for protecting something from pressure or shock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Inventor: Ing Chung Huang
  • Patent number: 5792539
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to thermal insulation elements each formed of a structural material with a highly emittant surface having a geometric shape of a repetitive three dimensional design which permits alternate stacking of one thermal insulation element alternately with another thermal insulation element and which locks movement of adjacent thermal insulation elements in at least one of the directions 90.degree. to the stacking direction; and more specifically, to a thermal insulation barrier having at least three alternately stacked thermal insulation elements, two of the thermal insulation elements having the same design, the alternate thermal insulation element having a complementary design, whereby when the thermal insulation elements are alternately stacked, any point of contact between thermal insulation elements is a contact between the alternate thermal insulation element and only one of the other thermal insulation elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Assignee: Oceaneering International, Inc.
    Inventor: Rick Cole Hunter
  • Patent number: 5792542
    Abstract: The fire retarding fluid mat is formed of two layers of material sealed around the edges. At least one layer intended for exposure to burning materials is a fire layer of semiporous material which is covered on the outer surface by a semiporous coating. The second or container layer is composed of a semiporous or nonporous material. The two layers are seamed together at joints intermediate the edges to prevent a ballooning effect when the mat is filled with a fluid such as water. When burning material contacts the semiporous coating fluid is released by capillary action. Once the fire is extinguished the semiporous coating reseals to retain the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Inventor: Terence L. Morgon
  • Patent number: 5770295
    Abstract: An insulation system (10, 180) is placed in ceilings or walls of buildings which are typically exposed on one side thereof to relatively large temperature changes and on the other side to relatively small temperature changes. The insulation system (10, 180) includes a first inner layer of insulative material (18, 184) and a second outer layer of insulative material (19, 186), with an intermediate layer of phase change material (20, 182) sandwiched therebetween. The phase change material undergoes a change of phase between solid state and liquid state during the course of a typical day due to the outside temperature ranging higher and lower than the phase change temperature. When undergoing a change of phase, the phase change material maintains a constant phase change temperature, thereby moderating the temperature gradient across the inner layer of insulative material (18, 184).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1998
    Assignee: Energy Pillow, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert J. Alderman
  • Patent number: 5759661
    Abstract: In this invention, a composite finishing cover for a component such as a vehicle instrument panel is provided by extruding a parison of inner and outer layers of different recyclable plastics having different characteristics but which are from the same family. The parison is injected with low pressure gas when forming dies are being closed thereover so that the plastics will fully conform to the forming surfaces of the die tooling cavity. The closing force of the dies cause the heat softened inner layers of the first plastics material to join at their interface to form a relatively thick core or substrate providing structural support for the relatively thin and flexible outer layer of the cover, also joined at their interface. The outer layer provides a finishing surface that exhibits a soft feel as when the human hand lightly contacts and moves across the surface thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1998
    Assignee: Chrysler Corporation
    Inventors: Leoncio C. Ang, Darlene B. Collins
  • Patent number: 5753061
    Abstract: A method for inflating a cushioning devices comprised of at least first and second distinct chambers having an interconnecting passage which provides fluid communication between the chambers. The method comprises either: (1) limiting the volume of at least one of the chambers, filling the chambers with a fluid at a single inflation pressure from a single inflation point and sealing the interconnecting passage, or (2) filling the chambers with a fluid at a single inflation pressure from a single inflation point compressing at least one of the distinct chambers, and sealing the interconnecting passage. The method is particularly suited to manufacture of a footwear cushion comprised of a body of elastomeric material having a plurality of sealed non-communicating cells having a single inflation point. At least two cells sharing a single sealed inflation passage are at different pressures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1998
    Assignee: Robert C. Bogert
    Inventor: Marion Franklin Rudy
  • Patent number: 5750236
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for forming compound shaped surfaces. A skin conforming to the visual shape of the surface being formed is prepared from a blank sheet of material that is cut to size and includes any desired stamped-out detailing or notched edges or lines. Disposable strips of material are used to form hems in the skin. A preforming die is used to create tight bends or outer contours in the skin. A liner of the desired size and detailing is formed along with two-shaped side flanges. A plurality of ribs or silhouettes are provided and placed into the skin to form and maintain the desired final shape. The pre-formed liner is then assembled to the skin, the ribs being disposed between the liner and the skin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1998
    Assignee: Royal Truck Bodies, Inc.
    Inventors: Carlos Joaquin Aros, Sylvan S. Throndson Aros
  • Patent number: 5738924
    Abstract: Sandwich construction building materials are produced using conventional facings of plywood, fiberboard, particle board, mineral board, wood, metal, plastic, etc. on both faces of the building material, the inner core therebetween being made from natural wood veneer, made from wood fibers or wood shavings combined with synthetic resin, bamboo, etc. bent into elongate strips of angular, corrugated or undulating configuration or rolled into hollow tubes. The strips or tubes may be cut transversely into strips of rings of equal height and assembled proximately of contiguously to form an inner core layer having an openwork pattern. Openwork spaces may be filled with insulation or strengthening materials, and core elements may be coated with resins or adhesives. The resulting building products may be modular and lightweight, strong and suitable for use as plywood, flooring, walls, beams, joists, trusses and posts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Inventor: Peter Sing
  • Patent number: 5730558
    Abstract: A device for collection and containment of spilled or leaked liquid hydrocarbons absorbs pollutants that come in contact. The absorbed material is solidified within the pillow into a rubber-like mass. An impermeable layer of material may be utilized in forming the bottom layer of the outer envelope of the device to retain accumulated hydrocarbons within the pillow while further allowing the contaminants to disperse throughout the device for absorption and solidification. The impermeable layer prevents spilled or leaked hydrocarbons from contaminating the surface below the device. The consolidated mass is easily retrieved and handled for disposal. A variety of options may be utilized in disposing of the spent device, including recycling the rubber-like mass as a component of tar-like materials, such as asphalt. The solidified hydrocarbons will not leech when exposed to pressure limits used to determine landfill suitability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1998
    Inventor: Herbert W. Holland
  • Patent number: 5725935
    Abstract: The present invention discloses signage articles having a layer of fused dry toner powder which is fused by employing a tacky pressure-sensitive adhesive and low compression. Suitable tacky pressure-sensitive adhesives include alkyl acrylate polymers or copolymers, alkyl vinyl ether polymers or copolymers, polyisobutylene, polybutadiene, and butadiene-styrene copolymers. Such signage articles further comprise a transparent cover layer disposed over the fused dry toner powder-bearing surface. Also disclosed are methods of forming signage articles, one method comprising the steps of applying dry toner powder to a first substrate surface, applying a composition including a tacky pressure-sensitive adhesive to a second substrate surface, and laminating the two substrates to admix the dry toner powder and the tacky pressure-sensitive adhesive. Either the first or second substrate may be the transparent cover layer of the resulting signage article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1998
    Assignee: Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: J. Sundar Rajan
  • Patent number: 5716693
    Abstract: A sandwich skin construction that is comprised of an internal structure comprising a plurality of cones disposed between two outer skins is disclosed. The interior contains a pressurized gas to give the resulting sandwich skin construction added strength over a similarly constructed non-pressurized structure of the same material with an equivalent mass. Various attributes of the cones can be adjusted, for example, size and angle, to optimize the performance of the sandwich skin construction to a variety of external stresses. Moreover, a method is provided for manufacturing the sandwich skin construction. The structure can be placed in a pressurized environment before attaching the outer skins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1998
    Inventor: Douglas E. Pittman
  • Patent number: 5714233
    Abstract: A metal sandwich structural body and manufacture thereof is provided in such a manner that a core body composed of a pair of core members is provided between surface plates made of superplastic metallic materials, these core members are bonded to the surface plates, free end parts of these core members are made integral to each other and following evagination of the surface plates the core members are raised and thus a three-dimensional core body is formed and, when the surface plates are evaginated, the free end parts of the core members are slightly moved while no movement occurs in bonded portions between the core members and the surface plates and thus a metal sandwich structural body having an optional form can be formed by preventing unfavorable deformation and irrespective of forms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 3, 1998
    Assignee: Japan Aircraft Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Nobuyuki Suzuki, Wataru Asai, Masato Yamagahana
  • Patent number: 5712015
    Abstract: A filling body (1) for introduction into a hollow space of an automobile body, consisting of a foam filling material which is surrounded by a plastic film (2), the foam filling material being adapted to be reduced in size, for example, by an evacuation of the hermetically closing covering for introduction into the hollow space and being adapted to be held fast in the hollow space by a release of restoring forces of the foam filling material, the foam filling material having foam flakes 5, 5'.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 27, 1998
    Assignee: Illbruck GmbH
    Inventor: Jose Guillem
  • Patent number: 5695844
    Abstract: In the manufacture of vacuum insulation panels, it is necessary to prevent deformation and damage to the brazed seal-off provided to maintain internal vacuum. The invention provides seal-off port geometries which improve the integrity of the vacuum panel. Annular troughs are formed in the metal sheet around the seal-off port to provide improved strength and stability to the seal-off area and to permit movement to compensate for melt-back of the glass mat contained within the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 9, 1997
    Assignee: MVE, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy Neeser, Bruce Lyman
  • Patent number: 5692245
    Abstract: A thermally insulated down-fill fabric of reduced thickness and having a down-fill composition. A patterned envelope is formed and defines a pouch in which down or a down-fill composition is inserted and distributed substantially evenly within the envelope. The envelope is then compressed and stitch seams are formed to define a quilt pattern of closely spaced stitch lines to reduce the loft of the down-fill composition by about twice the normal loft thereof. This procedure is repeated over the entire envelope whereby the fabric has at least half the thickness of the normal loft of the down-fill composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1997
    Inventor: Ronnie Reuben
  • Patent number: 5686161
    Abstract: An oxygen-absorbing label and a moisture-sensitive label. The oxygen-absorbing label consists of a base sheet, adhesive on the base sheet for securing the base sheet to an internal surface of a container, an oxygen-absorbing composition on the base sheet, and a permeable cover sheet secured to the base sheet to confine the oxygen-absorbing composition therebetween. The moisture-sensitive label is one wherein a moisture-sensitive material is used as part of the label instead of the oxygen-absorbing composition. The moisture-sensitive material may be a moisture adsorber such as silica gel or molecular sieve, or it may be a moisture supplier such as hydrogel. A plurality of the foregoing labels are mounted on a web to be used with conventional labeling equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1997
    Assignee: Multisorb Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: John S. Cullen, Ronald C. Idol, Thomas H. Powers
  • Patent number: 5681641
    Abstract: A structural member formed from a billet, each member comprising a plurality of corrugated paperboard sheets bonded together with an adhesive and disposed between a core fiber layer, each core fiber layer comprising at least one ply of a fiberboard sheet, a pair of caps of a solid fiberboard sheet bonded to respective side faces of the paperboard sheet and to the respective edges of the core fiber layers. A method of manufacture is disclosed in which the billet is built up of corrugated paperboard sheets. The billet is then ripped into planks for use as a plank, board, or cleat, particularly as components for corrugated paperboard containers. A pallet made of planks and a pallet made of planar sheets cut from the billet are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 28, 1997
    Assignee: North American Container Corporation
    Inventors: John M. Grigsby, Jeffrey C. Banks, John M. Grigsby, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5667863
    Abstract: An oxygen-absorbing label consisting of a base sheet, adhesive on the base sheet for securing the base sheet to an internal surface of a container, an oxygen-absorbing composition on the base sheet, and a cover sheet secured to the base sheet to confine the oxygen-absorbing composition therebetween, the cover sheet being fabricated of material which will permit oxygen to pass therethrough but will not stain due to the oxidation of the oxygen-absorbing composition or due to contact with materials in the container. A plurality of the foregoing labels are mounted on a web to be used with conventional labeling equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 16, 1997
    Assignee: Multisorb Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: John S. Cullen, Ronald C. Idol, Thomas H. Powers