Method and machine for manufacturing molded structures using zoned pressure molding
OwnerDavid H. Stewartinventor
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A method for manufacturing a molded structure in a press that includes the steps of positioning a preform (24) having a thickness in the lower mold (20), placing a quantity of resin adjacent the preform (24) so as to create a resin reservoir, and then selectively actuating one or more of the pressure actuators (28) to apply pressure to the resin reservoir to force at least a portion of the resin reservoir to infuse through the thickness of the preform (24). After the step of positioning, a top cover (32) may be placed upon the preform (24). The step of selectively actuating one or more of the pressure actuators (28) attached to an upper platen (60), may include a computer for controlling the pressure actuators (28).
Claims27
A method for manufacturing a molded part in a press that includes a first mold and a second mold, the second mold having a plurality of pressure actuators, each pressure actuator capable of independent operation, the method including the steps of:
- positioning a preform having a thickness in the first mold;
- placing a quantity of resin adjacent the preform, creating a resin reservoir;
- selectively actuating one or more of the plurality of pressure actuators to apply pressure to the resin reservoir to force at least a portion of the resin reservoir to infuse through the thickness of the preform;
- curing the resin-infused preform;
- and
- removing the cured resin-infused preform from the press.
A method for manufacturing a molded structure in a press that includes a first mold and a second mold, the second mold having a plurality of pressure actuators, each pressure actuator capable of independent operation, the method including the steps of:
- placing a quantity of a raw material into the first mold;
- selectively actuating one or more of the pressure actuators apply pressure to the raw material to force at least a portion of the raw material to conform to the first mold;
- curing the raw material to form a cured part;
- and
- removing the cured part from the first mold.
A machine for molding a part having first and second surfaces from a raw material, comprising:
- a first mold having a surface that defines the first surface of the molded part;
- and
- a second mold having a platen and a plurality of pressure actuators extending therefrom, each of the plurality of pressure actuators is capable of applying a pressure to the raw material and defining the second surface of the molded part.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.