Systems and methods for insert-molding
AssigneeApple Inc.
InventorsEmery Sanford, Edward A. Holman, II
Life of this patent
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Abstract
The present invention includes systems and methods for insert-molding. In some embodiments, a hook can be formed in a metal part by passing die-steel of a die-cast mold through the metal part during a die-casting process. This may, however, result in a hole in the metal part that is beneath the hook area. When plastic material is insert-molded over the metal part, the plastic material may flow through the hole and into the metal part. Accordingly, in some embodiments the plastic material can be prevented from flowing through the hole during the insert-molding. As one example, a tape material can be coupled over the hole. As another example, a wedge can be press-fit into the hole. As yet another example, a plug can be inserted into the hole.
Claims22
A method comprising:
- forming a metal part via die-cast molding a molten metal in a die-cast mold, wherein at least one hole is formed through the metal part by passing die steel of the die-cast mold through the molten metal during the die-cast molding;
- sealing the at least one hole with a tape material;
- and
- insert-molding a plastic material onto at least a portion of the formed metal part, wherein the tape material prevents the plastic material from passing through the at least one hole during the insert-molding.
A method comprising:
- injecting molten metal into a die-cast mold;
- allowing the molten metal to harden to form a metal piece, wherein the metal piece comprises a hole passing through it and wherein the hole was formed by passing die steel of the die-cast mold through the molten metal during the injecting;
- removing the metal piece from the die-cast mold;
- press-fitting a wedge into the hole;
- and
- insert-molding a plastic material onto at least a portion of the metal part, wherein the wedge prevents the plastic material from passing through the hole during the insert-molding.
A method comprising:
- forming a hole through a metal part, wherein the metal part comprising a top surface and a bottom surface;
- placing a plug into the hole from the top surface;
- and
- insert-molding a plastic material onto at least a portion of the metal part, wherein the plug prevents the plastic material from passing through the hole during the insert-molding.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.