Linear deposition apparatus

Abstract

A machine for applying a configuration of reinforcement/stiffening or decorative material in powder form to a receiving surface, for subsequent fusing, cooling and pressing to a substrate such as a shoe upper. The machine comprises a deposition station, a heating station and a press station. A tensioned receiving belt receives the configuration of powder through a cut-out in the bottom of a swept screen frame. The receiving belt is supported from beneath during the deposition activity to control the thickness of the powder deposit. The receiving belt is shuttled in a displaceable frame in a series of steps to the successive stations for melting the powder and subsequent cooling and adhesion of the melted powder to the substrate such as an unreinforced shoe upper. The cut-out may have a peripheral gasket arranged partially therearound to displace at least part of said cut-out from said receiving surface, leaving sufficient volume therebetween for filling by the powder as a three-dimensional (tapered) configuration.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.