Process of over-molding a thermoplastic elastomer over fabric pieces

Abstract

A method of over-molding a thermoplastic material over fabric includes: precision forming a mold cavity to match the final dimensions of a finished product; cutting a piece of fabric to a correct size; fixedly securing the fabric piece in the mold cavity; and injecting a thermoplastic material into the mold cavity at an appropriate temperature and pressure, on top of the fabric piece. The method may further include heating the thermoplastic material to a temperature for melting a surface layer of the fabric when injected thereon, and cooling of the thermoplastic material and fabric for bonding of the thermoplastic material to the surface of the fabric. The method may further include adding one or more additives from the group of additives consisting of: a UV stabilizer, an anti-blocking agent, a slip agents, a plasticizer, and a flame retardant; and securing a cord member onto an exposed portion of the fabric.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.