Blended fiber mat formation for structural applications
US11072092B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 29, 2017 |
| Grant date | Jul 27, 2021 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 17, 2038 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB32B2310/14
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A process and system are provided for introducing a blend of chopped and dispersed fibers on an automated production line amenable for inclusion in molding compositions as a blended fiber mat for structural applications. The blend of fibers are simultaneously supplied to an automated cutting machine illustratively including a rotary blade chopper disposed above a vortex supporting chamber. The blend of chopped fibers and binder form a chopped mat. The chopped mat has a veil mat placed on either side, and is consolidated with the veil mat using heated rollers maintained at the softening temperature of thermoplastic binder, with consolidated mats being amenable to being stored in rolls or as flat sheets. A charge pattern is made using the consolidated mat, and the charge pattern can be compression molded in a mold maintained at a temperature lower than the melting point of the thermoplastic fibers.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.