Thermoforming process for producing class “A” finish, high gloss automotive exterior parts
US7645416B2 · kind B2 · utility
6Cited by
13References
18Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 22, 2006 |
| Grant date | Jan 12, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 17, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB32B2605/08
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A thermoforming methodology for laminated thermoplastic sheets which preserves the class “A” finish and high gloss thereof. In a thermoforming process including heating followed by vacuum and opposing air pressure application, and then followed by application of chilled compressed air, control of spherulite formation using any of: addition of a nucleating agent to the paint film, using the chilled compressed air at a temperature of substantially about 32° F., heating to no more than about 311° F., selecting a paint film having a high melting point temperature, and selecting a paint film that is non-crystalline.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.