Method of forming a flexible tapered end for an extruded plastic molding strip
US4174986A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 13, 1978 |
| Grant date | Nov 20, 1979 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 13, 1998 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T156/1066
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The invention pertains to a novel method of forming a flexible, tapered end on a thermoplastic molding strip. The strip is of the type having a top surface shaped to provide desired protective and/or decorative functions. The bottom surface is generally flat for bonding to a desired article such as a side panel or door of an automotive vehicle. In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises removing a V-shaped notch from the end of the strip, with the opening of the V at the end, to form adjacent triangular shaped legs. The notched end is then bent to stretch the bottom surface and the legs are drawn together to form the taper. The edges of the legs adjacent the taper are bonded together only at the pointed end. Multiple cuts are then made into the bottom surface of the strip, perpendicular to the line formed by closing the notch, between the tip and the original apex of the notch. The finished tapered end is flexible and virtually free of residual stress which may cause a strip to delaminate when applied to a desired substratum.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.