Patent · US Expired

Continuous molding of fasteners and other features

US5971738A · kind A · utility

15Cited by
14References
25Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateJan 21, 1997
Grant dateOct 26, 1999
Priority date
Expiry dateJan 21, 2017

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
  • CPC primaryY10S425/814
  • WIPO fieldOther special machines
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

Molding apparatus and method for continuous molding of features integral with a base, such as in the production of fastener elements for hook-and-loop type touch fasteners, e.g. by the Fischer process, employs a mold roll formed of rings that have coolant passages formed within the ring components themselves for substantially direct contact with cooling liquid. Axial tie rods compress the mold rings together, contributing to the sealing of the coolant passages and the stiffness of the mold roll. Other types of sealing are disclosed. Mold cavities and cooling passages formed by photo-chemical etching, laser machining and other techniques are disclosed. Various machines and methods taking unique advantage of these features are disclosed, including ring alignment methods.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.