Structural and optical applications for shape memory polymers (SMP)
US6986855B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 24, 2002 |
| Grant date | Jan 17, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 6, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB29C33/3857
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The methods of manufacturing molds from shape memory materials and molds made thereby, in accordance with the present invention, provide numerous advantages for molding castable composite parts. The initial mold cost is low enough to accommodate economical production of as few as a single part incorporating high surface definition and intricate three dimensional detail. The preferred methods and molds made thereby are transparent, thereby, curing of the corresponding part by ultra-violet and infra-red light is made possible, as well as, visual inspection during injection and curing of the given resin. Removal of the cured part from within the mold is simplified.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.