Method for molding a cross-linked preform
AssigneeDePuy Orthopaedics, Inc.
InventorsDonald E. McNulty, Todd Smith
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A method for forming a plastic prosthesis bearing, net-shape bearing or near net-shape bearing is provided. The method includes providing a cross-linked plastic resin preform in a volume sufficient to accommodate the bearing and molding the cross-linked preform. The molding is accomplished by applying heat and pressure to form the preform into a desired solid plastic shape. The heating and pressure is sufficient to melt the plastic resin so that the plastic resin flows under pressure and quench remaining free-radicals.
Claims31
A method for forming a plastic prosthesis bearing, net-shape bearing or near net-shape bearing, the method comprising the steps of
- providing cross-linked plastic resin preform in a volume sufficient to accommodate the bearing, and
- molding the cross-linked preform by applying heat and pressure to form the preform into a desired solid plastic shape, the heating being sufficient to melt the plastic resin so that it will flow under pressure, and
- wherein the desired solid plastic shape is the formed bearing.
A method for forming a plastic prosthesis bearing, net-shape bearing or near net-shape bearing, the method comprising the steps of
- providing plastic resin in the form of a cross-linked preform,
- heating the preform within a mold to a temperature at or above the melting point of the resin and applying pressure for a time sufficient to form the preform into a desired solid plastic shape, and wherein the desired solid plastic shape is the formed bearing.
A method for producing a net-shape or near net-shape ultra high molecular weight polyethylene prosthesis bearing comprising the steps of:
- obtaining a preform of cross-linked ultra high molecular weight polyethylene resin of sufficient volume to provide the net-shape or near net-shaped bearing,
- placing the preform in a press-mold defining the desired net-shape or near net-shape,
- operating the press mold to apply sufficient heat to cause the resin to flow under pressure and to apply sufficient pressure to form the net-shape or near net-shape bearing.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.