Assembly including a compression-molded, composite panel locally reinforced adjacent a living hinge of the assembly
US8808829B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 28, 2012 |
| Grant date | Aug 19, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 29, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T428/24612
- WIPO fieldSurface technology, coating
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A panel assembly including a compression-molded, composite panel is provided. The panel has first and second outer layers and a core positioned between the outer layers. The core has a large number of cavities. The outer layers are bonded to the core by press molding. The assembly also includes a component pivotally connected to the panel and a living hinge which allows the component to pivot about a pivot axis between different use positions relative to the panel. The assembly further includes a stiffening support having a support axis substantially parallel to the pivot axis. The support is bonded or joined to the panel to locally reinforce the panel adjacent the living hinge. The stiffening support eliminates the need for a metal hinge and provides for a light weight assembly with improved aesthetics and function.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.