Method for molding an impact resistant automotive part
US6649109B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 30, 1999 |
| Grant date | Nov 18, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 30, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T428/24479
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A molding method and an impact resistant automotive part such as a bumper beam resulting from the molding method are obtained wherein a thermoplastic reinforced fiber structure at least partially forms a pair of attachment portions of the part and continuously extends between the attachment portions to link the attachment portions. The method includes the steps of providing a plurality of blanks, heating the plurality of blanks, and stacking the plurality of blanks to form a stack of blanks. The stack is then stamped to form the part including the pair of attachment portions spaced a predetermined distance apart. The thermoplastic reinforced fiber structure has tows of fibers wetted by a resin material such as polypropylene. Preferably, the fibers are woven glass fibers.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.