Method for producing a covering element made of breakable material

US6547910B1 · kind B1 · utility

Assignee

• Daimlerchrysler AG · US

Inventors

• Thomas Benzing · Wildberg, DE
• Arno Jambor · Leinfelden, DE
• Uwe Skrzypek · Krefeld, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Feb 22, 2001
• Grant date: Apr 15, 2003
• Expiry date: Feb 22, 2021

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10T156/108
• WIPO field: Other special machines
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A method for producing a trim panel with a thin decorative layer on a supporting element. The thin decorative layer is composed of an organic and/or crystalline material which is frangible in a thin layer, in particular natural stone. The method including the steps of: An adhesive and a nonwoven fabric or a film are applied as a plastic fixing film to a surface of the thin decorative layer. A surface of the supporting element later facing the decorative layer is coated with an adhesive. The supporting element is placed with the side not coated with the adhesive into a lower mold. The decorative layer with the plastic fixing film is roughly cut to size and placed with its uncoated surface onto the surface of the supporting element coated with the adhesive and positioned. An elastic element is positioned on the decorative layer with the plastic fixing film. Pressure is applied to the side of the elastic element facing away from the decorative layer, the decorative layer adapting itself to the form of the surface of the supporting element and adhesively bonding to the supporting element. The composite structure composed of the supporting element and the decorative layer is removed fro…