Automotive bolster with soft feel and method of making the same
US7284784B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 8, 2005 |
| Grant date | Oct 23, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 31, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60R2013/0281
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The present invention provides for an improved bolster with a soft feel for use in a trim assembly, and to a continuous two-shot molding operation that may be continuously performed utilizing a single mold assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the bolster includes a substrate formed by co-injecting a first and second material into a first shot mold cavity in a first shot of a molding operation. In a second shot mold cavity, a cover is formed on at least a portion of the substrate by co-injecting into a mold chamber a third and fourth material in a second shot of the molding operation. The fourth material defines an outer skin surrounding the third material which may include a foamed material to provide a soft, light cellular inner core such that when a force is applied to the cover, the outer skin will deform and compress the inner core, providing a soft feel to the bolster.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.