Thermoforming platen having discrete load paths and method
US11123915B2 · kind B2 · utility
1Cited by
7References
21Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 21, 2018 |
| Grant date | Sep 21, 2021 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 11, 2039 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB29C2791/002
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A thermoforming platen is provided having a tooling support plate and a plurality of discrete load paths. The tooling support plate has a top tooling surface, a bottom surface, and an outer periphery. The plurality of discrete load paths interconnect the bottom surface with one or more external load sources operative to distribute and centralize load deformation of the top plate from forming loads. The load paths are provided laterally inboard of the top tooling surface at one of a plurality of inboard locations to impart minimized tooling surface deformation along the top plate tooling surface. A method is also provided.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.