Method of producing custom-fitting articles and composition for the use therewith
US5555584A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 16, 1993 |
| Grant date | Sep 17, 1996 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 16, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB29L2031/504
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method of producing a custom-fitting article such as a custom-fitting footbed (for example, a removable insole), a custom-fitting hand grip, a custom-fitting body pad, and a custom-fitting orthopedic cast. A member for producing same and a composition for use in connection therewith are also provided. A member, such as a gel pad or gel-filled envelope, is provided which comprises a body of formable material having a minimum setting temperature greater than 130.degree. F. and being setable by heating for a period not exceeding 30 minutes and subsequent cooling. The member is conformed by biasing it against a body part of a person or mammal with sufficient pressure to conform the member to the shape of the body part. The member is then heated for a period not exceeding 30 minutes and thereafter cooled so that the formable material is set and the member remains flexible while resiliently retaining an impression of the body part. The composition preferably comprises uncured silicone rubber, an effect amount of crosslinking agent, and effective amounts of a) fine powder ethylene copolymer or terpolymer or a mixture thereof and b) liquid plasticizer.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.