Molding tools and method with grip-enhancing structure
US10479002B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 3, 2017 |
| Grant date | Nov 19, 2019 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 30, 2037 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB29L2031/3041
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A molding apparatus includes two mold tools that define and bound a mold cavity therebetween, for three-dimensionally press-molding a trim component. To minimize or avoid shrinkage or pull-back recession of the edge of the trim component during the molding process, at least one of the mold tools, on its molding surface bounding an end portion of the mold cavity, includes at least one grip-enhancing structure that provides increased grip on an edge portion of the trim component. The grip-enhancing structure may be or include a rough surface, a geometric configured surface, a geometric gripping edge, a surface coating, or mechanical engagement members. The grip-enhancing structure provides increased grip on the edge portion of the trim component by narrowing the mold cavity space, by increasing the surface friction or adhesion, and/or by mechanically engaging the material of the trim component. Thereby, the edge of the trim component is held in place while the three-dimensional molding proceeds and until the molded contour of the component is fixed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.