Fuel tank having molded reinforcements and method of making same
US6982105B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 13, 2001 |
| Grant date | Jan 3, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 13, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T428/1359
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A container assembly includes a container body formed of a thermoplastic material having an inner surface, an outer surface, and at least one corner having a reinforcement molded to the outer surface of the corner. The reinforcement has a peripheral edge, which is partially embedded in the outer surface of the container body. A method of making a container assembly comprises the step of molding a container body over a portion of a reinforcement. A reinforcement having a peripheral edge is disposed in a mold. A fluid thermoplastic material is disposed into the mold. The thermoplastic material is then molded over the inner surface of the mold and the peripheral edge of the reinforcement thereby forming the container body. The thermoplastic material contacts the peripheral edge and melts or softens the edge. A peripheral edge is then brought into engagement with the container body to provide a secure seal between the reinforcement and the container body.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.