Patent · US Expired

Molding of fasteners and other features

US6533981B1 · kind B1 · utility

8Cited by
27References
27Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateMay 8, 2002
Grant dateMar 18, 2003
Priority date
Expiry dateMay 8, 2022

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
  • CPC primaryY10T29/49901
  • WIPO fieldOther special machines
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

Molding apparatus and method for 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 (1) formed of rings (9) that have coolant passages (22) formed within the ring components (9) themselves for substantially direct contact with cooling liquid. Axial tie rods (16) compress the mold rings (9) together, contributing to the sealing of the coolant passages and the stiffness of the mold roll. Mold cavities (2), including cavities (2) used for injection molding, and cooling passages (22) formed in either mold rings (9) or injection mold plates 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 for improved base thickness control and for forming products with very thin bases.

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