Patent · US Active

Trim panel

US8343607B2 · kind B2 · utility

4Cited by

0References

9Claims

0Family size

Assignee

Johnson Controls Technology Company · US

Inventors

Tony M. Pokorzynski · Holland, US
Heather R. Springer · West Olive, US
Nels R. Smith · Holland, US
Bart W. Fox · Zeeland, US
John C. Hinken · Hudsonville, US
Jeffery T. Stout · Grand Rapids, US
Jason M. Hipshier · Hudsonville, US

Key dates

Filing date	Jan 3, 2008
Grant date	Jan 1, 2013
Priority date	—
Expiry date	Apr 27, 2029

Classification

Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
CPC primaryY10T428/24628
WIPO fieldOther special machines
WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

An apparatus and method for making a trim panel. The method includes providing a preform laminate including a compressible material sandwiched between a flexible skin and a back skin. Positioning the preform laminate in the mold. Placing an insert with the preform laminate in the mold to created a step to establish a seam location and define a secondary area on the preform laminate. Compressing the compressible material by introducing a molten polymeric material to the mold forming a substrate and bonding the substrate to the preform laminate forming the trim component. The preform laminate folds onto itself and creates a crease along the step to simulate the seam and provide a contour change with the appearance of cushioning in the secondary area, and removing the trim panel component from the mold.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.