Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a pulp-molded container comprising a tray comprising a bottom wall, a peripheral side wall extending upwardly from the bottom wall and terminating in a flange that at least partially defines an open top, the flange having a channel defined by spaced inner and outer channel walls connected by a bottom channel wall; and a cover closing the open top in a closed configuration, the cover including a protrusion biased against the inner and outer channel walls.
B65D 21/032 - Containers specially shaped, or provided with fittings or attachments, to facilitate nesting, stacking, or joining together for stacking containers one upon another in the upright or upside down position, e.g. with vertically projecting elements or recesses
Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a pulp-molded container comprising a tray comprising a bottom wall, a peripheral side wall extending upwardly from the bottom wall and terminating in a flange that at least partially defines an open top, the flange having a channel defined by spaced inner and outer channel walls connected by a bottom channel wall; and a cover closing the open top in a closed configuration, the cover including a protrusion biased against the inner and outer channel walls.
16 - Paper, cardboard and goods made from these materials
20 - Furniture and decorative products
21 - HouseHold or kitchen utensils, containers and materials; glassware; porcelain; earthenware
Goods & Services
(1) Paper containers for the food service industry
(2) Plastic containers for the food service industry
(3) Waxed paper cups
(4) Bowls; dinnerware; paper cups; plastic cups; soufflé dishes
16 - Paper, cardboard and goods made from these materials
20 - Furniture and decorative products
21 - HouseHold or kitchen utensils, containers and materials; glassware; porcelain; earthenware
Goods & Services
(1) Paper containers for the food service industry
(2) Plastic containers for the food service industry
(3) Bowls; dinnerware; paper cups; plastic cups; soufflé dishes
(4) Waxed paper cups
16 - Paper, cardboard and goods made from these materials
20 - Furniture and decorative products
21 - HouseHold or kitchen utensils, containers and materials; glassware; porcelain; earthenware
Goods & Services
Paper containers for the food service industry. Plastic containers for the food service industry. Paper cups; soufflé dishes; dinnerware; bowls; waxed paper cups; plastic cups.
Aspects of the present disclosure relate to injection molded cutlery having a body defining a handle portion and a utensil portion, with an injection gate mark located at a center section of the body. The body can be made from a bio-material injected at a pressure that is less than 60% of an injection pressure required for injection at an end of the body.
A disposable paperboard container, and method for manufacturing the same, formed into a geometric shape having a bottom wall with a bottom transition segment about the periphery of the bottom wall leading to an upstanding sidewall extending to an upper rim, wherein an undulation of paperboard resides along the peripheral area of the lower portion of the sidewall to form a stepped lower sidewall, the stepped lower sidewall being joined to a smooth upper sidewall that extends upward tapered outward; wherein the stepped lower sidewall includes a first bend and a second bend of paperboard about the periphery of the lower sidewall and a transition segment between the first and second bend extends radially outward to form a rim about the peripheral area of the lower portion of the sidewall.
Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a polyolefin composition and processes suitable for use in forming a lid for a hot food or beverage container that has a stiffness comparable to a similar lid made using high impact polystyrene and a density less than water at 23° C.
C08J 9/00 - Working-up of macromolecular substances to porous or cellular articles or materialsAfter-treatment thereof
B32B 27/20 - Layered products essentially comprising synthetic resin characterised by the use of special additives using fillers, pigments, thixotroping agents
B65D 65/38 - Packaging materials of special type or form
C08J 9/08 - Working-up of macromolecular substances to porous or cellular articles or materialsAfter-treatment thereof using blowing gases generated by a previously added blowing agent by a chemical blowing agent developing carbon dioxide
C08J 9/10 - Working-up of macromolecular substances to porous or cellular articles or materialsAfter-treatment thereof using blowing gases generated by a previously added blowing agent by a chemical blowing agent developing nitrogen
A recloseable lid for closing an open top of a cup terminating in an annular upper edge includes a cup mount defining an annular channel configured to receive the annular upper edge of the cup and a cap having an annular side wall extending upwardly from the cup mount and terminating in a top having an annular floor spaced above the cup mount. A drink opening is disposed in the top and a plug assembly having a drink opening plug is provided. The drink opening plug can be selectively moveable between a closed position in which the drink opening plug is received within the drink opening for closing the drink opening and an open position in which the drink opening plug is not disposed within the drink opening. The lid can also include a plug retainer disposed in the cap and configured to retain the drink opening plug in the open position.
B65D 47/08 - Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with pouring spouts or tubesClosures with discharging devices other than pumps with discharge nozzles or passages having articulated or hinged closures
B65D 43/06 - Removable lids or covers having a peripheral channel embracing the rim of the container
14.
PROCESS FOR FORMING A PAPER CONTAINER AND RELATED METHODS AND MATERIALS
Processes, assemblies, and sleeve blanks for forming a two-piece paper container are provided in which the sleeve blank includes an adhesive printed onto the sleeve blank while the sleeve blank is still part of the paper web. The adhesive can optionally be printed onto the sleeve blank in-line with printing a graphic on the sleeve blank prior to providing the sleeve blank to a container forming machine that wraps and seals the sleeve blank to a bottom blank.
Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a polyolefin composition and processes suitable for use in forming a lid for a hot food or beverage container that has a stiffness comparable to a similar lid made using high impact polystyrene and a density less than water at 23° C.
C08J 9/00 - Working-up of macromolecular substances to porous or cellular articles or materialsAfter-treatment thereof
C08J 9/08 - Working-up of macromolecular substances to porous or cellular articles or materialsAfter-treatment thereof using blowing gases generated by a previously added blowing agent by a chemical blowing agent developing carbon dioxide
C08J 9/10 - Working-up of macromolecular substances to porous or cellular articles or materialsAfter-treatment thereof using blowing gases generated by a previously added blowing agent by a chemical blowing agent developing nitrogen
B32B 27/20 - Layered products essentially comprising synthetic resin characterised by the use of special additives using fillers, pigments, thixotroping agents
16 - Paper, cardboard and goods made from these materials
20 - Furniture and decorative products
21 - HouseHold or kitchen utensils, containers and materials; glassware; porcelain; earthenware
Goods & Services
Paper containers for the food service industry Plastic containers for the food service industry Paper cups; soufflé dishes; dinnerware; bowls; waxed paper cups; plastic cups
20.
Container forming machine having a blank stacker assembly
A paperboard blank stacker assembly for supplying a stack of paperboard blanks to a container forming machine includes a stacker. The stacker has multiple blank stops arranged to hold a peripheral edge of a bottom blank of the stack of paperboard blanks, with the multiple blank stops defining an interior region. A blank carrier has at least one suction device moveable into a grasp position, where the suction device applies a suction force to the bottom blank, and a removal position, where the suction device is moved to remove the bottom blank from the stack of paperboard blanks by pulling the bottom blank through the interior region.
A paperboard blank stacker assembly for supplying a stack of paperboard blanks to a container forming machine includes a stacker. The stacker has multiple blank stops arranged to hold a peripheral edge of a bottom blank of the stack of paperboard blanks, with the multiple blank stops defining an interior region. A blank carrier has at least one suction device moveable into a grasp position, where the suction device applies a suction force to the bottom blank, and a removal position, where the suction device is moved to remove the bottom blank from the stack of paperboard blanks by pulling the bottom blank through the interior region.
A recloseable lid for closing an open top of a cup terminating in an annular upper edge includes a cup mount defining an annular channel configured to receive the annular upper edge of the cup and a cap having an annular side wall extending upwardly from the cup mount and terminating in a top having an annular floor spaced above the cup mount. A drink opening is disposed in the top and a plug assembly having a drink opening plug is provided. The drink opening plug can be selectively moveable between a closed position in which the drink opening plug is received within the drink opening for closing the drink opening and an open position in which the drink opening plug is not disposed within the drink opening. The lid can also include a plug retainer disposed in the cap and configured to retain the drink opening plug in the open position.
B65D 47/08 - Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with pouring spouts or tubesClosures with discharging devices other than pumps with discharge nozzles or passages having articulated or hinged closures
B65D 43/06 - Removable lids or covers having a peripheral channel embracing the rim of the container
Materials for coating paper sleeve blanks are provided, wherein the paper sleeve blank includes a multilayer coating. The multilayer coating includes a barrier layer and a top coat. At least two polymeric layers, including a top coat, are added to one side of the paper sleeve blank and the bottom blank. A container forming machine wraps and seals the multilayer coated paper sleeve blank to the coated bottom blank.
B65D 3/06 - Rigid or semi-rigid containers having bodies or peripheral walls of curved or partially-curved cross-section made by winding or bending paper without folding along defined lines characterised by shape essentially conical or frusto-conical
B31B 110/10 - Shape of rigid or semi-rigid containers having a cross section of varying size or shape, e.g. conical or pyramidal
B31B 120/00 - Construction of rigid or semi-rigid containers
B65D 3/12 - Flanged discs permanently secured, e.g. by adhesives or by heat-sealing
B65D 3/14 - Discs fitting within container end and secured by bending, rolling, or folding operations
B65D 65/42 - Applications of coated or impregnated materials
D21H 19/20 - Coatings without pigments applied in a form other than the aqueous solution defined in group comprising macromolecular compounds obtained by reactions only involving carbon-to-carbon unsaturated bonds
D21H 19/82 - Paper comprising more than one coating superposed
25.
METHOD OF FORMING A PAPER CONTAINER AND RELATED MATERIALS
Materials for coating paper sleeve blanks are provided, wherein the paper sleeve blank includes a multilayer coating. The multilayer coating includes a barrier layer and a top coat. At least two polymeric layers, including a top coat, are added to one side of the paper sleeve blank and the bottom blank. A container forming machine wraps and seals the multilayer coated paper sleeve blank to the coated bottom blank.
C09D 133/00 - Coating compositions based on homopolymers or copolymers of compounds having one or more unsaturated aliphatic radicals, each having only one carbon-to-carbon double bond, and at least one being terminated by only one carboxyl radical, or of salts, anhydrides, esters, amides, imides, or nitriles thereofCoating compositions based on derivatives of such polymers
D21H 19/20 - Coatings without pigments applied in a form other than the aqueous solution defined in group comprising macromolecular compounds obtained by reactions only involving carbon-to-carbon unsaturated bonds
D21H 19/80 - Paper comprising more than one coating
A stackable cutlery utensil includes a utensil portion and a handle portion. The handle portion has opposing first and second ends, with the second end being adjacent the utensil portion. The handle portion further has opposing upper and lower surfaces. First and second protrusions project from the lower surface. A recess is included on the upper surface.
A stackable cutlery utensil includes a utensil portion and a handle portion. The handle portion has opposing first and second ends, with the second end being adjacent the utensil portion. The handle portion further has opposing upper and lower surfaces. First and second protrusions project from the lower surface. A recess is included on the upper surface.
Processes, assemblies, and sleeve blanks for forming a two-piece paper container are provided in which the sleeve blank includes an adhesive printed onto the sleeve blank while the sleeve blank is still part of the paper web. The adhesive can optionally be printed onto the sleeve blank in-line with printing a graphic on the sleeve blank prior to providing the sleeve blank to a container forming machine that wraps and seals the sleeve blank to a bottom blank.
A solid state foamed microcellular foam sheet for use in forming a container is provided. The solid state foamed microcellular foam sheet includes a central foamed section defining a foam layer within the microcellular foam sheet having a first population of cells within which are interspersed a second population of cells.
B29C 44/26 - Shaping by internal pressure generated in the material, e.g. swelling or foaming for articles of indefinite length using several expanding steps
B32B 5/18 - Layered products characterised by the non-homogeneity or physical structure of a layer characterised by features of a layer containing foamed or specifically porous material
B32B 27/06 - Layered products essentially comprising synthetic resin as the main or only constituent of a layer next to another layer of a specific substance
An assembly system for wrapping an outer wrapper to an inner sleeve to form an outer wall of a double-wall container can include a moveable suction arm. The moveable suction arm can be configured to couple to a suction source and can have a portion defining a suction surface. A plurality of suction openings can be provided within the suction surface and fluidly coupled to the suction source. A sealing edge can circumscribe at least a portion of the suction surface.
A recloseable lid for closing an open top of a cup terminating in an annular upper edge includes a cup mount defining an annular channel configured to receive the annular upper edge of the cup and a cap having an annular side wall extending upwardly from the cup mount and terminating in a top having an annular floor spaced above the cup mount. A drink opening is disposed in the top and a plug assembly having a drink opening plug is provided. The drink opening plug can be selectively moveable between a closed position in which the drink opening plug is received within the drink opening for closing the drink opening and an open position in which the drink opening plug is not disposed within the drink opening. The lid can also include a plug retainer disposed in the cap and configured to retain the drink opening plug in the open position.
B65D 47/08 - Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with pouring spouts or tubesClosures with discharging devices other than pumps with discharge nozzles or passages having articulated or hinged closures
B65D 43/06 - Removable lids or covers having a peripheral channel embracing the rim of the container
A47G 19/26 - Butter or cheese dishes or covers, with or without cooling or heating devicesProtective covers for food containers
B65D 41/48 - Snap-on caps or cap-like covers non-metallic, e.g. made of paper or plastics
B65D 43/06 - Removable lids or covers having a peripheral channel embracing the rim of the container
B65D 47/08 - Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with pouring spouts or tubesClosures with discharging devices other than pumps with discharge nozzles or passages having articulated or hinged closures
B65D 47/36 - Closures with frangible parts adapted to be pierced, torn or removed, to provide discharge openings
42.
Method and apparatus for assembling a double-walled container
An assembly system for wrapping an outer wrapper to an inner sleeve to form an outer wall of a double-wall container can include a suction arm. The suction arm can be configured to couple to a suction source and can have a portion defining a suction surface. At least one suction opening can be provided within the suction surface and fluidly coupled to the suction source. A sealing edge can circumscribe at least a portion of the suction surface.
B65B 11/02 - Wrapping articles or quantities of material, without changing their position during the wrapping operation, e.g. in moulds with hinged folders
B65B 11/54 - Wrapping by causing the wrapper to embrace one end and all sides of the contents, and closing the wrapper onto the opposite end by forming regular or irregular pleats
B65D 65/14 - Wrappers or flexible covers with areas coated with adhesive
B65B 41/06 - Feeding sheets or wrapper blanks by grippers by suction-operated grippers
B65D 81/38 - Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents with thermal insulation
B65B 35/18 - Feeding, e.g. conveying, single articles by grippers by suction-operated grippers
B31B 50/28 - Folding sheets, blanks or webs around mandrels, e.g. for forming bottoms
B31B 50/07 - Feeding sheets or blanks by air pressure or suction
B65D 3/22 - Rigid or semi-rigid containers having bodies or peripheral walls of curved or partially-curved cross-section made by winding or bending paper without folding along defined lines with double wallsRigid or semi-rigid containers having bodies or peripheral walls of curved or partially-curved cross-section made by winding or bending paper without folding along defined lines with walls incorporating air-chambersRigid or semi-rigid containers having bodies or peripheral walls of curved or partially-curved cross-section made by winding or bending paper without folding along defined lines with walls made of laminated material
Aspects of the present disclosure relate to compositions and processes suitable for use in forming a lid for a hot food or beverage container, the lid being made from a multi-layer sheet that includes a substrate layer and a cap layer made from polyolefin-based compositions. The lid has a density less than water at 23° C., allowing the lid to be recycled in a recycling stream.
B32B 27/08 - Layered products essentially comprising synthetic resin as the main or only constituent of a layer next to another layer of a specific substance of synthetic resin of a different kind
B32B 27/20 - Layered products essentially comprising synthetic resin characterised by the use of special additives using fillers, pigments, thixotroping agents
Aspects of the present disclosure relate to compositions and processes suitable for use in forming a lid for a hot food or beverage container, the lid being made from a multi- layer sheet that includes a substrate layer and a cap layer made from polyolefin-based compositions. The lid has a density less than water at 23 C.degree., allowing the lid to be recycled in a recycling stream.
B29C 48/16 - Articles comprising two or more components, e.g. co-extruded layers
B32B 27/08 - Layered products essentially comprising synthetic resin as the main or only constituent of a layer next to another layer of a specific substance of synthetic resin of a different kind
B32B 27/20 - Layered products essentially comprising synthetic resin characterised by the use of special additives using fillers, pigments, thixotroping agents
B32B 37/15 - Methods or apparatus for laminating, e.g. by curing or by ultrasonic bonding characterised by the properties of the layers with at least one layer being manufactured and immediately laminated before reaching its stable state, e.g. in which a layer is extruded and laminated while in semi-molten state
Processes, assemblies, and sleeve blanks for forming a two-piece paper container are provided in which the sleeve blank includes an adhesive printed onto the sleeve blank while the sleeve blank is still part of the paper web. The adhesive can optionally be printed onto the sleeve blank in-line with printing a graphic on the sleeve blank prior to providing the sleeve blank to a container forming machine that wraps and seals the sleeve blank to a bottom blank.
A solid state foaming process for generating a microcellular foam sheet for use in forming a container is provided includes a pre-foaming treatment phase prior to a solid state impregnation and foaming phase. The solid state microcellular foam sheet includes a central foamed section defining a foam layer within the microcellular foam sheet having a first population of cells within which are interspersed a second population of cells.
B29C 44/26 - Shaping by internal pressure generated in the material, e.g. swelling or foaming for articles of indefinite length using several expanding steps
B32B 5/18 - Layered products characterised by the non-homogeneity or physical structure of a layer characterised by features of a layer containing foamed or specifically porous material
B32B 27/06 - Layered products essentially comprising synthetic resin as the main or only constituent of a layer next to another layer of a specific substance
A solid state foaming process for generating a microcellular foam sheet for use in forming a container is provided includes a pre-foaming treatment phase prior to a solid state impregnation and foaming phase. The solid state microcellular foam sheet includes a central foamed section defining a foam layer within the microcellular foam sheet having a first population of cells within which are interspersed a second population of cells.
C08J 9/04 - Working-up of macromolecular substances to porous or cellular articles or materialsAfter-treatment thereof using blowing gases generated by a previously added blowing agent
Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a polyolefin composition and processes suitable for use in forming a lid for a hot food or beverage container that has a stiffness comparable to a similar lid made using high impact polystyrene and a density less than water at 23° C.
C08J 9/00 - Working-up of macromolecular substances to porous or cellular articles or materialsAfter-treatment thereof
C08J 9/08 - Working-up of macromolecular substances to porous or cellular articles or materialsAfter-treatment thereof using blowing gases generated by a previously added blowing agent by a chemical blowing agent developing carbon dioxide
C08J 9/10 - Working-up of macromolecular substances to porous or cellular articles or materialsAfter-treatment thereof using blowing gases generated by a previously added blowing agent by a chemical blowing agent developing nitrogen
B65D 65/38 - Packaging materials of special type or form
B32B 27/20 - Layered products essentially comprising synthetic resin characterised by the use of special additives using fillers, pigments, thixotroping agents
49.
POLYOLEFIN-BASED COMPOSITION FOR A LID AND METHODS OF MAKING AND USING
Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a thermoformed lid for a food or beverage container made from a non-vented, extruded sheet comprising at least one polyolefin with at least one filler, no blowing agent, and having expanded cells providing the lid with a density of greater than 0 g/cm3 at 23 C. and less than 1 g/cm3 at 23 C.
C08J 9/04 - Working-up of macromolecular substances to porous or cellular articles or materialsAfter-treatment thereof using blowing gases generated by a previously added blowing agent
An assembly system for wrapping an outer wrapper to an inner sleeve to form an outer wall of a double-wall container can include a moveable suction arm. The moveable suction arm can be configured to couple to a suction source and can have a portion defining a suction surface. A plurality of suction openings can be provided within the suction surface and fluidly coupled to the suction source. A sealing edge can circumscribe at least a portion of the suction surface.
B65D 3/22 - Rigid or semi-rigid containers having bodies or peripheral walls of curved or partially-curved cross-section made by winding or bending paper without folding along defined lines with double wallsRigid or semi-rigid containers having bodies or peripheral walls of curved or partially-curved cross-section made by winding or bending paper without folding along defined lines with walls incorporating air-chambersRigid or semi-rigid containers having bodies or peripheral walls of curved or partially-curved cross-section made by winding or bending paper without folding along defined lines with walls made of laminated material
B31B 50/07 - Feeding sheets or blanks by air pressure or suction
B65B 11/02 - Wrapping articles or quantities of material, without changing their position during the wrapping operation, e.g. in moulds with hinged folders
B65B 11/54 - Wrapping by causing the wrapper to embrace one end and all sides of the contents, and closing the wrapper onto the opposite end by forming regular or irregular pleats
B65B 35/18 - Feeding, e.g. conveying, single articles by grippers by suction-operated grippers
B65B 41/06 - Feeding sheets or wrapper blanks by grippers by suction-operated grippers
B65D 65/14 - Wrappers or flexible covers with areas coated with adhesive
B65D 81/38 - Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents with thermal insulation
A method of making a double-wall cup (100) having an inner cup (200) defining an inner wall (210) and an outer wrapper (300) defining an outer wall (310), the method comprising applying an adhesive (120) on the inner wall (210), holding a portion of the wrapper (300), at a location between opposing ends (315, 320) of the wrapper (300), in contact with the adhesive (120) while in spaced relationship with the inner wall (210) to define a spaced condition, and wrapping the wrapper (300) about the inner wall (210).
B65D 3/00 - Rigid or semi-rigid containers having bodies or peripheral walls of curved or partially-curved cross-section made by winding or bending paper without folding along defined lines
A method of making a double-wall cup having an inner cup defining an inner wall and an outer wrapper defining an outer wall, the method comprising applying an adhesive on the inner wall, holding a portion of the wrapper, at a location between opposing ends of the wrapper, in contact with the adhesive while in spaced relationship with the inner wall to define a spaced condition, and wrapping the wrapper about the inner wall.
A47G 19/22 - Drinking vessels or saucers used for table service
B65D 81/38 - Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents with thermal insulation
B29C 65/48 - Joining of preformed partsApparatus therefor using adhesives
B31B 50/02 - Feeding or positioning sheets, blanks or webs
B65D 3/22 - Rigid or semi-rigid containers having bodies or peripheral walls of curved or partially-curved cross-section made by winding or bending paper without folding along defined lines with double wallsRigid or semi-rigid containers having bodies or peripheral walls of curved or partially-curved cross-section made by winding or bending paper without folding along defined lines with walls incorporating air-chambersRigid or semi-rigid containers having bodies or peripheral walls of curved or partially-curved cross-section made by winding or bending paper without folding along defined lines with walls made of laminated material
B29C 65/50 - Joining of preformed partsApparatus therefor using adhesives using adhesive tape
B29C 65/78 - Means for handling the parts to be joined, e.g. for making containers or hollow articles
B29C 65/00 - Joining of preformed partsApparatus therefor
A method of making a double-wall cup (100) having an inner cup (200) defining an inner wall (210) and an outer wrapper (300) defining an outer wall (310), the method comprising applying an adhesive (120) on the inner wall (210), holding a portion of the wrapper (300), at a location between opposing ends (315, 320) of the wrapper (300), in contact with the adhesive (120) while in spaced relationship with the inner wall (210) to define a spaced condition, and wrapping the wrapper (300) about the inner wall (210).
B65D 3/00 - Rigid or semi-rigid containers having bodies or peripheral walls of curved or partially-curved cross-section made by winding or bending paper without folding along defined lines
A method for saturating a thermoplastic polymer material includes continuously moving the polymer material through a pressurized pressure vessel. To do this, the method includes sealing the pressure vessel with a series of dynamic seals that allows the polymer material to continuously move through the pressure vessel while maintaining the pressure inside the pressure vessel.
An apparatus (un-interleaver) for unwinding a roll of material interleaved with another material, and for separating the materials, includes a first platform, a second platform, a tension-sensor, an edge-sensor, and a controller. The controller monitors signals generated by the tension sensor and the edge sensor, and in response to the signals: a) causes the speed at which the second platform rotates to change to maintain a predetermined tension in the second material as the second material travels from the first platform toward the second platform, and b) causes the second platform to move relative to the first platform to align the edge of the second material traveling toward the roll of second material with the edge of the second material in the roll.
B65H 23/182 - Registering, tensioning, smoothing, or guiding webs longitudinally by controlling or regulating the web-advancing mechanism, e.g. mechanism acting on the running web in unwinding mechanisms or in connection with unwinding operations
B65H 23/32 - Arrangements for turning or reversing webs
B65H 23/04 - Registering, tensioning, smoothing, or guiding webs longitudinally
B65H 23/02 - Registering, tensioning, smoothing, or guiding webs transversely
B65H 23/18 - Registering, tensioning, smoothing, or guiding webs longitudinally by controlling or regulating the web-advancing mechanism, e.g. mechanism acting on the running web
B65H 23/032 - Controlling transverse register of web
B65H 23/195 - Registering, tensioning, smoothing, or guiding webs longitudinally by controlling or regulating the web-advancing mechanism, e.g. mechanism acting on the running web in winding mechanisms or in connection with winding operations
B65H 23/198 - Registering, tensioning, smoothing, or guiding webs longitudinally by controlling or regulating the web-advancing mechanism, e.g. mechanism acting on the running web in winding mechanisms or in connection with winding operations motor-controlled
A container having tamper evident and resistant features comprises a tray having a bottom wall and a peripheral side wall extending upwardly from the bottom wall, which collectively define a compartment, and terminating in a tray rib to at least partially define an open top providing access to the compartment. The container further comprises a cover comprising a top wall that terminates in a cover rib having a peripheral cover lip, an interference element extending from the container, at least one tab provided in the container and associated with the interference element, and at least one line of weakness coupling the tab to the container. The tab is moveable between a first position where the line of weakness is not severed and a second position where the line of weakness is severed.
A method for saturating a thermoplastic polymer material includes continuously moving the polymer material through a pressurized pressure vessel. To do this, the method includes sealing the pressure vessel with a series of dynamic seals that allows the polymer material to continuously move through the pressure vessel while maintaining the pressure inside the pressure vessel.
B29C 44/34 - Component parts, details or accessoriesAuxiliary operations
B29B 13/00 - Conditioning or physical treatment of the material to be shaped
C08J 9/12 - Working-up of macromolecular substances to porous or cellular articles or materialsAfter-treatment thereof using blowing gases generated by a previously added blowing agent by a physical blowing agent
Roll fed flotation/impingement air ovens and related thermoforming systems for corrugation-free heating and expanding of gas impregnated thermoplastic webs
Disclosed herein are roll fed air heated flotation ovens and related thermoforming systems, assemblies, and machines that enable the corrugation-free expansion of a gas impregnated thermoplastic web passing through an oven chamber (without use of a pin-chain assembly), as well as to related methods. In an embodiment, a gas impregnated thermoplastic web is conveyed and expanded through an elongated air heated oven chamber, wherein the elongated oven chamber includes a plurality of downwardly directed heated air nozzles positioned at regular intervals along and within the upper portion of the oven chamber, and a plurality of upwardly directed heated air nozzles positioned at regular intervals along and within the lower portion of the oven chamber, but staggered apart from the downwardly directed heated air nozzles such that the gas impregnated thermoplastic material web undulates in an up and down wavelike fashion, thereby minimizing sagging, bagging, puckering, and/or buckling of the web.
A bottom heater for use in assembling a container bottom and a sleeve includes a body having a peripheral wall and a heated air passage terminating in an outlet in the peripheral wall. A shape of at least a portion of the peripheral wall defining the outlet is such that heated air exiting the outlet is fluidly attached to an adjacent portion of the peripheral wall after exit because of the Coanda effect.
B29C 65/00 - Joining of preformed partsApparatus therefor
B65D 6/00 - Containers having bodies formed by interconnecting or uniting two or more rigid, or substantially rigid, components made wholly or mainly of metal, plastics, wood or substitutes therefor
B29C 65/10 - Joining of preformed partsApparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure using hot gases
B31D 5/00 - Multiple-step processes for making three-dimensional articles
A bottom heater for use in assembling a container bottom and a sleeve includes a body having a peripheral wall and a heated air passage terminating in an outlet in the peripheral wall. A shape of at least a portion of the peripheral wall defining the outlet is such that heated air exiting the outlet is fluidly attached to an adjacent portion of the peripheral wall after exit because of the Coanda effect.
B65D 81/34 - Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents for packaging foodstuffs intended to be cooked or heated within the package
A container having tamper evident and resistant features comprises a tray having a bottom wall and a peripheral side wall extending upwardly from the bottom wall, which collectively define a compartment, and terminating in a tray rib to at least partially define an open top providing access to the compartment. The container further comprises a cover comprising a top wall that terminates in a cover rib having a peripheral cover lip, an interference element extending from the container, at least one tab provided in the container and associated with the interference element, and at least one line of weakness coupling the tab to the container. The tab is moveable between a first position where the line of weakness is not severed and a second position where the line of weakness is severed.
A container having tamper evident and resistant features includes a tray, a cover, and a blocking wall that prevents direct access to a peripheral cover lip of the cover when the cover is in a closed position on the tray. The container includes at least one tab that prevents direct access to the peripheral cover lip and which is at least partially separable from the container along at least one line of weakness to provide access to the peripheral cover lip for removing the cover from the tray. The tab further includes an interference element that inhibits replacement of the tab into its original position with respect to the container after the at least one line of weakness have been severed.
A container having tamper evident and resistant features includes a tray, a cover, and a blocking wall that prevents direct access to a peripheral cover lip of the cover when the cover is in a closed position on the tray. The container includes at least one tab that prevents direct access to the peripheral cover lip and which is at least partially separable from the container along at least one line of weakness to provide access to the peripheral cover lip for removing the cover from the tray. The tab further includes an interference element that inhibits replacement of the tab into its original position with respect to the container after the at least one line of weakness have been severed.
The University of Washington through its Center for Commercialization (USA)
Inventor
Nadella, Krishna V.
Kumar, Vipin
Guo, Huimin
Abstract
A method for generating a microstructure that includes microcellular bubbles, in a material that includes molecules of a thermoplastic polymer, comprises: determining a size-index for the material that represents an average size of the thermoplastic polymer molecules included in the material, and in response to the determined size-index, setting a parameter of a process to generate a microstructure in the material that includes microcellular bubbles. The process to generate a microstructure in the material includes: 1) infusing into the material, during a first period, a gas that does not react with the material, 2) making the gas-infused material thermodynamically unstable.
C08J 9/12 - Working-up of macromolecular substances to porous or cellular articles or materialsAfter-treatment thereof using blowing gases generated by a previously added blowing agent by a physical blowing agent
B29B 13/00 - Conditioning or physical treatment of the material to be shaped
B29C 44/34 - Component parts, details or accessoriesAuxiliary operations
B29K 67/00 - Use of polyesters as moulding material
A multi-layer sheet for forming an expanded foam container, the multi-layer sheet comprising a first layer of an expanded foam material comprising a first polyolefin-based material comprising at least one polypropylene-based polymer and a second layer of an unexpanded material comprising a second polyolefin-based material comprising at least one polypropylene-based polymer that is co-extruded, extrusion coated, or laminated on a first side of the first layer, wherein an exterior surface of the second layer has a low gloss level.
B65D 21/032 - Containers specially shaped, or provided with fittings or attachments, to facilitate nesting, stacking, or joining together for stacking containers one upon another in the upright or upside down position, e.g. with vertically projecting elements or recesses
B65D 81/38 - Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents with thermal insulation
B65D 3/06 - Rigid or semi-rigid containers having bodies or peripheral walls of curved or partially-curved cross-section made by winding or bending paper without folding along defined lines characterised by shape essentially conical or frusto-conical
B65D 3/14 - Discs fitting within container end and secured by bending, rolling, or folding operations
B65D 3/22 - Rigid or semi-rigid containers having bodies or peripheral walls of curved or partially-curved cross-section made by winding or bending paper without folding along defined lines with double wallsRigid or semi-rigid containers having bodies or peripheral walls of curved or partially-curved cross-section made by winding or bending paper without folding along defined lines with walls incorporating air-chambersRigid or semi-rigid containers having bodies or peripheral walls of curved or partially-curved cross-section made by winding or bending paper without folding along defined lines with walls made of laminated material
B32B 5/18 - Layered products characterised by the non-homogeneity or physical structure of a layer characterised by features of a layer containing foamed or specifically porous material
B31C 7/06 - Forming truncated cones on two or more mandrels and inserting into a cone end a bottom to form a container
C08J 9/04 - Working-up of macromolecular substances to porous or cellular articles or materialsAfter-treatment thereof using blowing gases generated by a previously added blowing agent
76.
INSULATED CONTAINER AND METHODS OF MAKING AND ASSEMBLING
A multi-layer sheet for forming an expanded foam container, the multi-layer sheet comprising a first layer of an expanded foam material comprising a first polyolefin-based material comprising at least one polypropylene-based polymer and a second layer of an unexpanded material comprising a second polyolefin-based material comprising at least one polypropylene-based polymer that is co-extruded, extrusion coated, or laminated on a first side of the first layer, wherein an exterior surface of the second layer has a low gloss level.
B29C 48/18 - Articles comprising two or more components, e.g. co-extruded layers the components being layers
B32B 5/18 - Layered products characterised by the non-homogeneity or physical structure of a layer characterised by features of a layer containing foamed or specifically porous material
B32B 37/15 - Methods or apparatus for laminating, e.g. by curing or by ultrasonic bonding characterised by the properties of the layers with at least one layer being manufactured and immediately laminated before reaching its stable state, e.g. in which a layer is extruded and laminated while in semi-molten state
B65D 3/06 - Rigid or semi-rigid containers having bodies or peripheral walls of curved or partially-curved cross-section made by winding or bending paper without folding along defined lines characterised by shape essentially conical or frusto-conical
B65D 3/14 - Discs fitting within container end and secured by bending, rolling, or folding operations
B65D 3/22 - Rigid or semi-rigid containers having bodies or peripheral walls of curved or partially-curved cross-section made by winding or bending paper without folding along defined lines with double wallsRigid or semi-rigid containers having bodies or peripheral walls of curved or partially-curved cross-section made by winding or bending paper without folding along defined lines with walls incorporating air-chambersRigid or semi-rigid containers having bodies or peripheral walls of curved or partially-curved cross-section made by winding or bending paper without folding along defined lines with walls made of laminated material
B65D 21/032 - Containers specially shaped, or provided with fittings or attachments, to facilitate nesting, stacking, or joining together for stacking containers one upon another in the upright or upside down position, e.g. with vertically projecting elements or recesses
B65D 81/38 - Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents with thermal insulation
77.
Insulated container and methods of making and assembling
A multi-layer sheet for forming an expanded foam container, the multi-layer sheet including a first layer of an expanded foam material including a first polyolefin-based material including at least one polypropylene-based polymer and a second layer of an unexpected material including a second polyolefin-based material including at least one polypropylene-based polymer that is co-extruded, extrusion coated, or laminated on a first side of the first layer.
B32B 7/02 - Physical, chemical or physicochemical properties
B29B 17/00 - Recovery of plastics or other constituents of waste material containing plastics
B29C 47/00 - Extrusion moulding, i.e. expressing the moulding material through a die or nozzle which imparts the desired form; Apparatus therefor (extrusion blow-moulding B29C 49/04)
B32B 5/18 - Layered products characterised by the non-homogeneity or physical structure of a layer characterised by features of a layer containing foamed or specifically porous material
B32B 27/06 - Layered products essentially comprising synthetic resin as the main or only constituent of a layer next to another layer of a specific substance
B32B 27/18 - Layered products essentially comprising synthetic resin characterised by the use of special additives
B65D 21/02 - Containers specially shaped, or provided with fittings or attachments, to facilitate nesting, stacking, or joining together
B65D 81/38 - Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents with thermal insulation
B65D 3/12 - Flanged discs permanently secured, e.g. by adhesives or by heat-sealing
B65D 3/16 - Discs without flanges engaging a groove in the container body
B29C 47/56 - using more than one extruder to feed one die
An apparatus (un-interleaver) for unwinding a roll of material interleaved with another material, and for separating the materials, includes a first platform, a second platform, a tension-sensor, an edge-sensor, and a controller. The controller monitors signals generated by the tension-sensor and the edge-sensor, and in response to the signals: a) causes the speed at which the second platform rotates to change to maintain a predetermined tension in the second material as the second material travels from the first platform toward the second platform, and b) causes the second platform to move relative to the first platform to align the edge of the second material traveling toward the roll of second material with the edge of the second material in the roll.
B65H 23/182 - Registering, tensioning, smoothing, or guiding webs longitudinally by controlling or regulating the web-advancing mechanism, e.g. mechanism acting on the running web in unwinding mechanisms or in connection with unwinding operations
B65H 23/32 - Arrangements for turning or reversing webs
B65H 23/04 - Registering, tensioning, smoothing, or guiding webs longitudinally
B65H 23/02 - Registering, tensioning, smoothing, or guiding webs transversely
B65H 23/18 - Registering, tensioning, smoothing, or guiding webs longitudinally by controlling or regulating the web-advancing mechanism, e.g. mechanism acting on the running web
B65H 23/032 - Controlling transverse register of web
B65H 23/195 - Registering, tensioning, smoothing, or guiding webs longitudinally by controlling or regulating the web-advancing mechanism, e.g. mechanism acting on the running web in winding mechanisms or in connection with winding operations
B65H 23/198 - Registering, tensioning, smoothing, or guiding webs longitudinally by controlling or regulating the web-advancing mechanism, e.g. mechanism acting on the running web in winding mechanisms or in connection with winding operations motor-controlled
A tamper evident and resistant container includes a tray, a cover and a hinge extending from the cover and tray defining a hinge axis about which the tray and cover relatively rotate between a closed position and an opened position. The container further includes a first tab provided on one of the cover or the tray and at least partially defined by a line of weakness. When the cover is in the closed position, a user may pull the first tab to tear the hinge to separate the cover from the tray, wherein the line of weakness at least partially defining the first tab is configured to tear when the first tab is pulled to tear the hinge to separate the cover from the tray.
A tamper evident and resistant container includes a tray, a cover and a hinge extending from the cover and tray defining a hinge axis about which the tray and cover relatively rotate between a closed position and an opened position. The container further includes a first tab provided on one of the cover or the tray and a second tab provided on the other of the cover or the tray. When the cover is in the closed position, the first and second tabs are spaced relative to each other such that a user may grasp the first tab with one hand and the second tab with another hand and relatively pull the first tab and the second tab away from each other to tear the hinge and separate the cover from the tray.
A container includes a tray having an outwardly extending tray flange and a rib projecting upwardly from at least a portion of the tray flange to at least partially define an open top and a cover terminating in an outwardly extending cover flange with a skirt projecting upwardly from the cover flange. When the cover is mounted to the tray to close an open top of the tray, a portion of the skirt lies on top of the rib, and an amount of the skirt that is pinchable is insufficient to apply the force required to overcome a peripheral seal between the cover and the tray to separate the cover from the tray.
B65D 41/32 - Caps or cap-like covers with lines of weakness, tearing-strips, tags, or like opening or removal devices, e.g. to facilitate formation of pouring openings
THE UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON through its CENTER FOR COMMERCIALIZATION (USA)
Inventor
Nadella, Krishna, V.
Kumar, Vipin
Guo, Huimin
Abstract
A method for generating a microstructure that includes microcellular bubbles, in a material that includes molecules of a thermoplastic polymer, comprises: determining a size-index for the material that represents an average size of the thermoplastic polymer molecules included in the material, and in response to the determined size-index, setting a parameter of a process to generate a microstructure in the material that includes microcellular bubbles. The process to generate a microstructure in the material includes: 1 ) infusing into the material, during a first period, a gas that does not react with the material, 2) making the gas- infused material thermodynamically unstable.
A double-walled container including an inner sleeve, an outer sleeve and a base is provided. The inner sleeve is positioned within the outer sleeve. A sidewall cavity may be formed between an inner sleeve sidewall and an outer sleeve sidewall. The lower end of the outer sleeve forms an elongated loop located below a lowermost edge of the inner sleeve. A flange may extend from the elongated loop upwardly above the lowermost edge of the inner sleeve and is attached to the inner sleeve. The elongated loop may form a loop cavity. The loop cavity may be in fluid communication with the sidewall cavity.
B65D 81/38 - Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents with thermal insulation
A double-walled container including an inner sleeve, an outer sleeve and a base is provided. The inner sleeve is positioned within the outer sleeve. A sidewall cavity may be formed between an inner sleeve sidewall and an outer sleeve sidewall. The lower end of the outer sleeve forms an elongated loop located below a lowermost edge of the inner sleeve. A flange may extend from the elongated loop upwardly above the lowermost edge of the inner sleeve and is attached to the inner sleeve. The elongated loop may form a loop cavity. The loop cavity may be in fluid communication with the sidewall cavity.
B65D 3/22 - Rigid or semi-rigid containers having bodies or peripheral walls of curved or partially-curved cross-section made by winding or bending paper without folding along defined lines with double wallsRigid or semi-rigid containers having bodies or peripheral walls of curved or partially-curved cross-section made by winding or bending paper without folding along defined lines with walls incorporating air-chambersRigid or semi-rigid containers having bodies or peripheral walls of curved or partially-curved cross-section made by winding or bending paper without folding along defined lines with walls made of laminated material
B65D 81/38 - Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents with thermal insulation
85.
Method for infusing a gas into a thermoplastic material, and related systems
A method for infusing gas into a thermoplastic material includes positioning a sheet of a thermoplastic material into a vertical or substantially vertical position; positioning a sheet of a gas-permeable material into a vertical or substantially vertical position; and winding together the positioned sheet of thermoplastic material sheet and the positioned sheet of gas-permeable material to form a roll of the thermoplastic material interleaved with the gas-permeable material, the interleaved roll having a longitudinal axis oriented in a vertical or substantially vertical position. The method also includes exposing the interleaved roll to an atmosphere of a gas pressurized to infuse the thermoplastic material with the gas, while the longitudinal axis of the interleaved roll is oriented in a vertical or substantially vertical position; and then unwinding the gas-infused interleaved roll, while the longitudinal axis of the interleaved roll remains in a vertical or substantially vertical position.
B29C 44/20 - Shaping by internal pressure generated in the material, e.g. swelling or foaming for articles of indefinite length
B29C 44/34 - Component parts, details or accessoriesAuxiliary operations
C08J 9/33 - Agglomerating foam fragments, e.g. waste foam
C08J 9/12 - Working-up of macromolecular substances to porous or cellular articles or materialsAfter-treatment thereof using blowing gases generated by a previously added blowing agent by a physical blowing agent
An apparatus (turnbar) for changing the orientation of a sheet of material as the material travels from a first location toward a second location, includes a first roller, a second roller, and a turnbar-roller disposed between the first roller and the second roller. The turnbar-roller supports the sheet in a third orientation intermediate to the first and second orientations, and is movable relative to the first roller to maintain a predetermined tension in the sheet, as the material travels toward the second location.
An apparatus (un-interleaver) for unwinding a roll of material interleaved with another material, and for separating the materials, includes a first platform, a second platform, a tension-sensor, an edge-sensor, and a controller. The controller monitors signals generated by the tension-sensor and the edge-sensor, and in response to the signals: a) causes the speed at which the second platform rotates to change to maintain a predetermined tension in the second material as the second material travels from the first platform toward the second platform, and b) causes the second platform to move relative to the first platform to align the edge of the second material traveling toward the roll of second material with the edge of the second material in the roll.
B32B 5/20 - Layered products characterised by the non-homogeneity or physical structure of a layer characterised by features of a layer containing foamed or specifically porous material foamed in situ
B32B 38/10 - Removing layers, or parts of layers, mechanically or chemically
The present invention is directed to a deep draw microcellularly foamed polymeric container comprising a polymeric sidewall integrally connected to a polymeric base along a bottom edge. The polymeric sidewall and base are contiguous with each other and define a shape of an open top container. The polymeric sidewall and base have a contiguous inner microcellular foam structure (having average cell diameters ranging from about 5 to about 100 microns) surrounded by a smooth outer skin layer integrally connected therewith. The polymeric sidewall defines a container height and a top opening, wherein the top opening defines a top opening width, and wherein the polymeric base defines a container base width, and wherein the area defined by the top opening is greater than the area defined by the polymeric base, and wherein the ratio of the container height (h) to the top opening width (w) is greater than about 1:1 (h:w).
B65D 81/38 - Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents with thermal insulation
B29C 44/34 - Component parts, details or accessoriesAuxiliary operations
B29C 44/04 - Shaping by internal pressure generated in the material, e.g. swelling or foaming for articles of definite length, i.e. discrete articles consisting of at least two parts of chemically or physically different materials, e.g. having different densities
B29B 11/14 - Making preforms characterised by structure or composition
C08J 9/12 - Working-up of macromolecular substances to porous or cellular articles or materialsAfter-treatment thereof using blowing gases generated by a previously added blowing agent by a physical blowing agent
A container having tamper evident and resistant features includes a tray, a cover and a hinge extending from the cover and tray to a radially outermost portion and having a first portion extending from a first side of the cover and a second portion extending from a first side of the tray, wherein the first and second portions are connected by at least one weakened line to define a hinge axis about which the tray and cover relatively rotate between a closed position and an opened position. The container is provided with a first tab which a user may grasp with one hand and a second tab which the user may grasp with another hand and the user may relatively pull the first tab and the second tab away from each other to tear the hinge along the at least one weakened line and separate the cover from the tray.
B65D 41/32 - Caps or cap-like covers with lines of weakness, tearing-strips, tags, or like opening or removal devices, e.g. to facilitate formation of pouring openings
Disclosed herein are methods and pressure vessels for solid-state microcellular processing of thermoplastic rolls and sheets. In one embodiment, the present invention is directed to a method for making a gas impregnated interleaved roll, which method comprises: providing a pressure vessel having an internal pressure chamber and a rotatable shaft horizontally positioned within the pressure chamber; placing an interleaved roll about the rotatable shaft and within the pressure chamber, wherein the interleaved roll is made from a thermoplastic material sheet interleaved together with a gas-channeling material sheet; pressurizing the pressure chamber to a selected pressure; rotating the rotatable shaft having the interleaved roll thereabouts (thereby rotating the interleaved roll) while under pressure for a selected period of time; and depressurizing the internal chamber to yield the gas impregnated interleaved roll. In other embodiments, the invention is directed to multi-chambered pressure vessels for gas impregnation of thermoplastic rolls, sheets, and films.
B29C 44/34 - Component parts, details or accessoriesAuxiliary operations
C08J 9/12 - Working-up of macromolecular substances to porous or cellular articles or materialsAfter-treatment thereof using blowing gases generated by a previously added blowing agent by a physical blowing agent
C08J 9/00 - Working-up of macromolecular substances to porous or cellular articles or materialsAfter-treatment thereof
The invention disclosed herein relates to relates to foamed thermoplastic material objects and articles of manufacture having an internal layered cellular structure, as well as to methods of making the same. In one embodiment, the invention is directed to a multi-layer foamed polymeric article of manufacture, comprising: a non-laminated multi-layer thermoplastic material sheet, wherein the multi-layer thermoplastic material sheet has first and second discrete outer layers sandwiching a plurality of discrete inner foamed layers, and wherein the two outer layers and plurality discrete inner foamed layers are integral with one another. The thermoplastic material may be a semi-crystalline polymer such as, for example, PET (polyethylene terephthalate), PEEK (polyetheretherketone), PEN (polyethylene naphthalate), PBT (polybutylene terephthalate), PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate), PLA (polylactide), polyhydroxy acid (PHA), thermoplastic urethane (TPU), or blends thereof. The two outer layers may be unfoamed skin layers having smooth outer surfaces, and the discrete inner foamed layers may be microcellular.
B32B 5/32 - Layered products characterised by the non-homogeneity or physical structure of a layer characterised by the presence of two or more layers which comprise fibres, filaments, granules, or powder, or are foamed or specifically porous both layers being foamed or specifically porous
B29C 44/04 - Shaping by internal pressure generated in the material, e.g. swelling or foaming for articles of definite length, i.e. discrete articles consisting of at least two parts of chemically or physically different materials, e.g. having different densities
B29C 44/34 - Component parts, details or accessoriesAuxiliary operations
B32B 27/06 - Layered products essentially comprising synthetic resin as the main or only constituent of a layer next to another layer of a specific substance
A method for joining two components includes positioning a thermoplastic polymer portion of a first component adjacent a thermoplastic polymer portion of a second component such that the first and second portions form an interface. At least one of the portions includes a microstructure having a plurality of closed cells, each cell containing a void and each cell having a maximum dimension extending across the void. The method also includes exerting pressure on the thermoplastic polymer portions to form a bond at the interface that holds the portions together. The plurality of closed cells, and especially those adjacent the surface of the thermoplastic polymer portion that form the interface, help isolate thermally and/or chemically the surface from the remainder of the portion.
B29C 65/20 - Joining of preformed partsApparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure using heated tool with direct contact, e.g. using "mirror"
B29C 65/00 - Joining of preformed partsApparatus therefor
B32B 27/06 - Layered products essentially comprising synthetic resin as the main or only constituent of a layer next to another layer of a specific substance
B32B 37/20 - Methods or apparatus for laminating, e.g. by curing or by ultrasonic bonding characterised by the properties of the layers with all layers existing as coherent layers before laminating involving the assembly of continuous webs only
B32B 38/00 - Ancillary operations in connection with laminating processes
B29K 105/04 - Condition, form or state of moulded material cellular or porous
B29C 65/10 - Joining of preformed partsApparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure using hot gases
B29C 65/14 - Joining of preformed partsApparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure using wave energy or particle radiation
Roll fed flotation/impingement air ovens and related thermoforming systems for corrugation-free heating and expanding of gas impregnated thermoplastic webs
Disclosed herein are roll fed air heated flotation ovens and related thermoforming systems, assemblies, and machines that enable the corrugation-free expansion of a gas impregnated thermoplastic web passing through an oven chamber (without use of a pin-chain assembly), as well as to related methods. In an embodiment, a gas impregnated thermoplastic web is conveyed and expanded through an elongated air heated oven chamber, wherein the elongated oven chamber includes a plurality of downwardly directed heated air nozzles positioned at regular intervals along and within the upper portion of the oven chamber, and a plurality of upwardly directed heated air nozzles positioned at regular intervals along and within the lower portion of the oven chamber, but staggered apart from the downwardly directed heated air nozzles such that the gas impregnated thermoplastic material web undulates in an up and down wavelike fashion, thereby minimizing sagging, bagging, puckering, and/or buckling of the web.
