WO2013148977A1 - Articles structuraux en matière plastique recyclable et procédé de fabrication - Google Patents

Articles structuraux en matière plastique recyclable et procédé de fabrication Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2013148977A1
WO2013148977A1 PCT/US2013/034312 US2013034312W WO2013148977A1 WO 2013148977 A1 WO2013148977 A1 WO 2013148977A1 US 2013034312 W US2013034312 W US 2013034312W WO 2013148977 A1 WO2013148977 A1 WO 2013148977A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
bead
cavity
foam core
shell
mold
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/US2013/034312
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English (en)
Inventor
Richard W. Roberts
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Individual
Original Assignee
Individual
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from US13/463,700 external-priority patent/US8840819B2/en
Priority claimed from US13/463,705 external-priority patent/US20130255176A1/en
Priority claimed from US13/463,682 external-priority patent/US9073462B2/en
Priority claimed from US13/840,827 external-priority patent/US9346237B2/en
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Priority to EP13769879.1A priority Critical patent/EP2830861A4/fr
Priority to US14/389,019 priority patent/US10207606B2/en
Publication of WO2013148977A1 publication Critical patent/WO2013148977A1/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C70/00—Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts
    • B29C70/58—Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts comprising fillers only, e.g. particles, powder, beads, flakes, spheres
    • B29C70/66—Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts comprising fillers only, e.g. particles, powder, beads, flakes, spheres the filler comprising hollow constituents, e.g. syntactic foam
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C44/00—Shaping by internal pressure generated in the material, e.g. swelling or foaming ; Producing porous or cellular expanded plastics articles
    • B29C44/34—Auxiliary operations
    • B29C44/3415—Heating or cooling
    • B29C44/3426—Heating by introducing steam in the mould
    • B29C44/343—Heating by introducing steam in the mould by using pipes to direct the steam inside the mould
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C49/00—Blow-moulding, i.e. blowing a preform or parison to a desired shape within a mould; Apparatus therefor
    • B29C49/02—Combined blow-moulding and manufacture of the preform or the parison
    • B29C49/04—Extrusion blow-moulding
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C2793/00—Shaping techniques involving a cutting or machining operation
    • B29C2793/0009—Cutting out
    • B29C2793/0018—Cutting out for making a hole
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C49/00—Blow-moulding, i.e. blowing a preform or parison to a desired shape within a mould; Apparatus therefor
    • B29C49/0031—Making articles having hollow walls
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C49/00—Blow-moulding, i.e. blowing a preform or parison to a desired shape within a mould; Apparatus therefor
    • B29C49/42—Component parts, details or accessories; Auxiliary operations
    • B29C49/4273—Auxiliary operations after the blow-moulding operation not otherwise provided for
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C49/00—Blow-moulding, i.e. blowing a preform or parison to a desired shape within a mould; Apparatus therefor
    • B29C49/42—Component parts, details or accessories; Auxiliary operations
    • B29C49/4273—Auxiliary operations after the blow-moulding operation not otherwise provided for
    • B29C49/42808—Filling the article
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29L—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASS B29C, RELATING TO PARTICULAR ARTICLES
    • B29L2031/00—Other particular articles
    • B29L2031/06—Rods, e.g. connecting rods, rails, stakes
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29L—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASS B29C, RELATING TO PARTICULAR ARTICLES
    • B29L2031/00—Other particular articles
    • B29L2031/30—Vehicles, e.g. ships or aircraft, or body parts thereof
    • B29L2031/3044—Bumpers

Definitions

  • the disclosed embodiments relate to an in-situ molded foam core structural plastic article, and a system and method of manufacturing of same.
  • railroad ties support relatively great weights of railroad locomotives and their attached train cars with their contents. As the trains pass over railroad rails supported on railroad ties, the ties experience substantial vibration, in addition to the compressive force of the weight. When the ties are not in use, they are still subjected to harsh environment extremes of temperature, ultraviolet light, and moisture. The degradation of wooden railroad ties through this exposure to the environment requires that the ties must be replaced frequently in order to continue to perform their primary function of supporting the weight of the train. The wood used to make conventional railroad ties is increasingly becoming more expensive. Wooden railroad ties are heavy making the job of replacing them difficult.
  • Panels especially load-bearing panels are used in many applications.
  • vehicle manufacturers attempt to reduce the weight of the vehicles in order to enhance the fuel economy of the vehicle.
  • the reduction in weight compromises component part strength as wall thickness of blowmolded, thermo formed, rotocasted, and rotomolded components is reduced in order to a component reduce weight.
  • load floor systems have a relatively long span that is unsupported across the inside of the vehicle, in order to provide load-bearing characteristics.
  • plastic processors are consolidating components in load floor systems in order to reduce further the load floor weight and the assembly labor costs.
  • plastic processors have incorporated glass fiber reinforcements into the plastic material used to make load floors.
  • a panel system includes a first panel having a periphery.
  • the panel includes a first plastic layer having a periphery and a second plastic layer opposed and spaced apart from the first layer.
  • the second layer also has a periphery.
  • the first and second layers define a first cavity therebetween.
  • a first in-situ foam core is disposed in the cavity and has a thermal bond to the first and second plastic layers.
  • the panel is capable of supporting 0.1 to 0.5 lbf/in .
  • a plastic structural article includes an elongated tubular shell having opposed end sections, a middle section therebetween and an interior cavity.
  • the article also includes a foam core comprised of steam expandable polymer beads which when expanded substantially fill the interior cavity.
  • the article in another embodiment includes a railroad tie having an elongated shell including opposed closed end sections and a middle section therebetween.
  • the shell defines an elongate interior cavity.
  • Substantially filling the cavity is a foam core comprising expanded polyolefin beads.
  • a method of manufacturing a plastic structural article includes blow-molding a plastic preform in a mold cavity in the shape of an elongated member to form an elongated tubular plastic shell.
  • the shell has opposed end sections, a middle section therebetween and a hollow interior cavity.
  • the method also includes forming at least one fill port and a plurality of heating ports in the wall of the plastic shell.
  • the shell interior cavity is filled with expandable polymer beads.
  • the polymer beads are expanded by injecting a hot, at least partially vaporized, heating medium into the heating ports.
  • the polymer beads expand so as to substantially fill the interior cavity of the shell.
  • the plastic shell is constrained to limit expansion of the shell caused by the heated expanding polymer beads until the assembly is sufficiently cooled to limit substantial further expansion.
  • the mold cavity is opened releasing the plastic structural article.
  • a seating system for use with a vehicle includes a first seat component having a skin having a thermal bond to an in-situ foam core.
  • the first seat component maximum displacement is less than 160 mm when tested according to a test method in ECE R17 regulation for luggage retention with a 20 times the force of gravity crash pulse.
  • a seating system for use with a vehicle includes a first and a second seat back component portion having a skin having a thermal bond to an in-situ foam core and a periphery.
  • the first seat back component portion and the second seat back portion component are disposed about a frame.
  • an energy management system for use with a vehicle having an interior includes an elongated plastic member having a wall defining a cavity. Disposed within the cavity is an elongated first in-situ foam core member, which has a first thermal bond to the wall. The wall having a first portion facing towards the vehicle interior and a second portion opposed to the first portion. A second in-situ foam core member is connected to at least a portion of the elongated plastic member forming the energy management system.
  • the energy management system is capable of passing a 5-mph crash test passing Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 215 (FMVSS 215) Phase II.
  • an energy management system for use with a vehicle includes an elongated plastic member having a wall defining a cavity and a first in-situ foam core member disposed within the cavity.
  • the first in-situ foam core has a first thermal bond to the wall.
  • the thermal bond includes a cooled connection of a molten or a softened portion the wall, a molten or a softened portion of the first in-situ foam core, and a layer including portions of the wall and the first in-situ foam core.
  • a second in-situ foam core member is connected to at least a portion of the elongated plastic member by a second thermal bond disposed between the wall and the second in- situ foam core.
  • the energy management system is capable of meeting the requirements of 49 CFR Part 581.5 when measured according to 49 CFR Part 581.6 and 581.7.
  • a method of manufacture of an energy management system includes the steps of spacing a first mold portion and a second mold portion about a polymeric parison, where the first mold portion has a port.
  • the method includes pinching the polymer parison when closing the first and second mold portions about the polymer parison. Air is injected into the pinched parison forming a wall and a cavity from the polymer parison. An aperture is drilled into the wall through the port. A first plurality of beads is dispensed into the cavity through the aperture. Steam is injected into the first plurality of beads causing expansion of the first plurality of beads to form a first in-situ foam core having a thermal bond to the wall, thereby forming a structural plastic beam.
  • the first mold portion is separated from the structural plastic beam.
  • a second plurality of beads is dispensed between the first mold portion and the structural plastic beam.
  • the first mold portion is closed again.
  • Steam is injected into the second plurality of beads causing expansion of the second plurality of beads to form a second in-situ foam core having a second thermal bond to the structural plastic beam forming an the energy management system.
  • FIGURE 1 schematically illustrates a fragmentary isometric view of a rail pattern according to at least one embodiment
  • FIGURE 2 schematically illustrates a railroad tie according to at least one embodiment
  • FIGURE 3 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of a railroad tie along axis 3-3 in FIGURE 2;
  • FIGURE 4 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of a railroad tie along axis 4-4 in FIGURE 2;
  • FIGURE 5 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of a second railroad tie embodiment
  • FIGURE 6 schematically illustrates a fragmentary cross-sectional view of a railroad tie along axis 6-6 in FIGURE 5;
  • FIGURE 7 schematically illustrates a fragmentary longitudinal, cross-sectional view of a railroad tie and rail system illustrating spike placement
  • FIGURE 8 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of a third rail configuration with a railroad tie
  • FIGURE 9 schematically illustrates a fragmentary cross-sectional view of a railroad tie with load sensors
  • FIGURE 10 schematically illustrates a bumper according to at least one embodiment
  • FIGURE 11 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view along axis 11-11 of Figure 10;
  • FIGURE 12 illustrates a process flow diagram of a method of manufacture of a railroad tie according to at least one embodiment
  • FIGURES 13a -13d schematically illustrate a process of manufacture of a railroad tie according to at least one embodiment.
  • FIGURE 14 is schematic illustration of an extrusion blow molding machine equipped with a foam core system
  • FIGURES 15a-15i schematically illustrate a more detailed process of the manufacture of a foam filled blow molded article
  • FIGURES 16a-16d illustrate a bead filled gun in various states of operation
  • FIGURE 17 is a diagram of mold pressure versus time prior to and during the bead fill process
  • FIGURE 18 is a more detailed schematic illustration of the array of steam pins in the mold and the associated manifolds and alternative connections to the air steam vacuum in vent lines;
  • FIGURE 19 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a steam pin actuator and an enlarged steam pin tip region.
  • FIGURE 20 schematically illustrates a vehicle having a load floor system according to at least one embodiment
  • FIGURE 21 schematically illustrates a fragmentary cross-sectional view of a load floor system component along axis 2-2 of Figure 1 according to at least one embodiment
  • FIGURE 22 schematically illustrates a fragmentary cross-sectional view of a load floor system component including a living hinge along axis 3-3 of Figure 1 according to at least one embodiment
  • FIGURES 23A-D schematically illustrate fragmentary cross-sectional views of a method of manufacture of a load floor system component including a living hinge according to at least one embodiment
  • FIGURE 24 schematically illustrates an isometric view of a vertical panel according to at least one embodiment
  • FIGURES 25A-25B schematically illustrate isometric views of panels according to another embodiment
  • FIGURES 26A-26B schematically illustrate isometric views of panels according to another embodiment
  • FIGURES 27A27C schematically illustrate isometric views of panels according to yet another embodiment.
  • FIGURES 28A-28D schematically illustrate isometric views of panels according to another embodiment.
  • FIGURE 29 schematically illustrates a vehicle having a seat assembly according to at least one embodiment
  • FIGURE 30 schematically illustrates a seat back component and a headrest of a seat assembly according to at least one embodiment
  • FIGURE 31 schematically illustrates a fragmentary cross-sectional view of a seat back component and a headrest along axis 3-3 of figure 2 according to at least one embodiment
  • FIGURE 32 schematically illustrates an isometric view of a seat assembly according to at least one embodiment
  • FIGURE 33 schematically illustrates an exploded isometric view of a seat assembly according to another embodiment
  • FIGURE 34 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of a seat back assembly according to at least one embodiment.
  • FIGURE 35 schematically illustrates a vehicle having a structural bumper system according to at least one embodiment
  • FIGURE 36 schematically illustrates a fragmentary cross-sectional view of a structural bumper system along axis 2-2 of figure 1 according to at least one embodiment
  • FIGURES 37A-G schematically illustrate fragmentary cross-sectional views of a method of manufacture of a structural bumper system according to at least one embodiment.
  • FIGURE 38 schematically illustrates energy management components according to at least one embodiment.
  • a section of railroad track is shown having a rail pattern 10 comprising two lengths of a railroad rail 14 that supports a maximum length of a span of a railroad car or locomotive from truck to truck.
  • rail pattern 10 comprises 5 to 50 railroad ties 12.
  • rail pattern 10 comprises 20 to 35 railroad ties 12.
  • rail pattern 10 comprises 25 to 32 railroad ties 12.
  • rail pattern 10 includes railroad ties 12 situated on a rail bed 20.
  • Ties 12 support at least two rails 14 which are parallel and spaced apart.
  • Rail 14 is connected to railroad tie 12 with a plate 16 connected to rail 14.
  • Plate 16 is fastened to railroad tie 12 by one or more spikes 18.
  • Railroad tie 12 has two end sections 30 and a middle section 32.
  • End section 30 includes a top surface 34 to which plate 16 is fastened.
  • bottom surface 36 Opposed and parallel to top surface 34 is bottom surface 36 which is in contact with rail bed 20.
  • Connecting top surface 34 and bottom surface 36 are two sides 38 and 40.
  • An angle 42 between side 38 and top surface 34 may be perpendicular or range from 60° to 120°.
  • An angle 44 between side 40 and surface 34 may also be perpendicular or, in another embodiment, range from 60° to 120°.
  • Sides 38 and 40 may be linear, or curvilinear as illustrated in Figure 3.
  • the height of the railroad tie 12 between top and bottom surfaces 34 and 36 may range from 4 inches to 16 inches in various embodiments.
  • the width between sides 38 and 40 may range from 4 inches to 16 inches in different embodiments.
  • the width between sides 38 and 40 may be effective to create a short column.
  • Middle section 32 includes a top surface 50 and a bottom surface 52 opposed and spaced apart from top surface 50. Connecting top surface 50 and bottom surface 52 are sides 54 and 56. Sides 54 and 56 may be linear, or curvilinear such as convex or concave, as illustrated in Figure 4.
  • a transition 58 between the top surface 34 of end section 30 and top surface 50 of middle section 32 may be linear or curvilinear.
  • a transition 60 between either sides 38 and 54 or sides 40 and 56 of the end section 30 and the middle section 50 may be linear or curvilinear.
  • the intersection of transitions 58 and 60 forms a Coons corner geometry 62.
  • Wall 80 which includes outer periphery top and bottom surfaces 34 and 36, as well as sides 38 and 40, defines an interior cavity 82 into which a core 84 is formed.
  • Wall 80 may be formed from a polymeric composition.
  • the polymeric composition may include thermoplastic and/or thermoset polymers.
  • the polymeric composition is recyclable.
  • Non-limiting examples of polymeric compositions suitable for wall 80 include polyolefms, such as polypropylene and polyethylene.
  • wall 80 includes a blow moldable thermoplastic polyolefin/polypropylene blend, a thermoplastic elastomer/polypropylene blend interpenetrating polyolefin blend, a thermoplastic having a glass transition temperature less than -80°C/polyolefm blend, a hetergeneous polymer blend, and a thermoplastic having a glass transition temperature less than -20°C/polyolefm blend, a thermoplastic vulcanizate/polyolefin blend.
  • hetergeneous polymer blends having a crystalline thermoplastic phase and a high molecular weight or crosslinked elastomeric phase may be supplied by Exxon Mobile or Advanced Elastomer Systems.
  • the ratio of thermoplastic polymer to polyolefin ranges from 5 wt.% to 70 wt.% of the blend. In another embodiment, the ratio of thermoplastic polymer to polyolefin ranges from 10 wt.% to 40 wt.%.
  • the thickness of wall 80 may range from 0.03 inches to 0.5 inches in at least one embodiment. In another embodiment, the thickness of wall 80 may range from 0.125 inches to 0.25 inches.
  • the wall is made of an elongated tube of polypropylene material having a wall thickness ranging from 0.14 inches to 0.17 inches before shrinkage which is blow-molded into the shape of the tie 12 having a finished wall thickness ranging from 0.13 to 0.16 inches.
  • Core 84 may include steam-expandable polymer particles 86, such as expanded polyolefin polymer beads.
  • the expanded polyolefin polymer beads includes expanded polypropylene polymer beads (EPP).
  • core 84 includes expanded high molecular weight polypropylene polymer beads.
  • homopolymer beads are included in the expanded polyolefin beads in order to increase the stiffness of core 84.
  • the homopolymer polyolefin is a homopolymer polypropylene, the stiffness increases such that a 100,000 lb load yields a 5.8%> strain and a compression of only 0.007 inches.
  • the strain ranges from 2% strain to 10% strain.
  • EPP may be formed in situ by injection of steam into polypropylene beads to form steam-injected expanded polypropylene. It is understood that a portion of core 84 may comprise polyolefin beads in an unexpanded configuration or a partially expanded configuration.
  • Steam-injected expanded polypropylene may have a density ranging from 1 lb/ft to 20 lbs/ft 3.
  • steam-injected EPP may have a density ranging from 1.5 lbs/ft 3 to 10 lbs/ft .
  • steam-injected EPP may have a density ranging from 2 lbs/ft 3 to 6 lbs/ft 3.
  • steam-injected EPP may have a density ranging from 3 lbs/ft 3 to 5 lbs/ft 3 .
  • a load applied by a train may be more broadly distributed throughout core 84 by wrapping plate 16 around the sides 38 and 40 as shown in Figure 3.
  • Plate 16 forms an inverted "U" shape in order to support sides 38 and 40 and limits outward defection under load.
  • middle section 34 of railroad tie 12 in certain embodiments, includes a cavity 84 which is filled with expanded polyolefin.
  • the expanded polyolefin particles 86 filling cavity may have a density that is less than, equal to, or greater than the density of expanded polyolefin in cavity 84 of end section 30.
  • end section 30 has a density of EPP that is at least 1 lb/ft less than the density of EPP in middle section 34. While Figures 3 and 4 describe having 3 density zones, it is understood that railroad tie 12 may have one or more density zones without exceeding the scope or spirit of the embodiment.
  • the density zones may comprise a relatively uniform gradient of density throughout portions of the railroad tie 12 without relatively clear demarcation of one or more density zones.
  • the density of the EPP beads in the end section is 5 lbs/ft while the density of the EPP beads in the middle section is 3 lbs/ft .
  • an angled railroad tie 112 suitable for use in a curved railroad pattern is schematically illustrated in cross-sectional view.
  • Angled railroad tie 112 is formed from an angular wall section 110 which defines three sub-cavities 114, 116 and 118.
  • a first expanded polyolefin 120 is formed into cavity 114.
  • a second expanded polyolefin 122 having a density less than expanded polyolefin 120 is formed.
  • a third expanded polyolefin 124 having a third density is formed.
  • the densities of expanded polyolefins 120, 122 and 124 may be equal or different.
  • the angle of angled railroad tie 112 is given by angle ⁇ .
  • Angle ⁇ is determined by a camber needed for safe passage of a train in a curve in the rail track pattern 10. It is desirable to have angled railroad tie 112 because rail bed 20 may be uniformly prepared as a flat and level bed surface.
  • the angle ⁇ may range from 0.1° to 30°.
  • the angle ⁇ may range from 0.5° to 10°.
  • the angled railroad tie comprises a wedge shape.
  • Bottom surface 36 in at least one embodiment, includes a retention structure 126 which interacts with rail bed 20 to form an interference that reduces the tendency of the railroad tie 112 to move when a directional force is applied to railroad tie 112 by the passage of a train.
  • Figure 7 illustrates a ringed shank fastener 140, such as a spike for use with railroad tie 12.
  • the expanded polyolefm 142 moves aside as the ringed shank spike 140 is driven into railroad tie 12 in at least one embodiment.
  • the expanded polyolefm 142 then rebounds to wrap around the ring shanks 144 of the spike 140 to secure the rail 14 and plate 16 to railroad tie 12.
  • ring shank 144 extends 0.100 inches to 0.300 inches from the root of spike 140.
  • Ring shank 144 is configured as an inverted frustro conical section.
  • Spike 140 may include a plurality of such frustro conical sections sequentially configured along the longitudinal axis of spike 140. It is understood that other shapes providing an undercut may be suitable for use with spike 140.
  • Figure 8 illustrates a third rail configuration for use with a railroad tie 150 according to at least one embodiment.
  • Railroad tie 150 includes an expandable polyolefm 152 in a cavity defined by wall 154.
  • a third rail device 156 is mounted on railroad tie 150.
  • Third rail device 156 is electrified to supply power to an electrical train. Electrical power is then transferred to rails 158 back to the power station.
  • Figure 8 illustrates having plate 16 inset into a plate retention structure 172 embossed into tie 150. It is understood that retention structure 126 and plate retention structure 172 may be present in the same railroad tie.
  • Figure 9 illustrates a fragmentary cross-section of a railroad tie 160 in which sensors are embedded according to at least one embodiment.
  • One or more sensors such as a RFID chip 162 with a piezoelectric strain gauge 164, may be embedded in an expanded polyolefm 168 in a cavity defined by wall 170.
  • An optional conduit 166 may permit electrical connection of sensor 164 to an external signaling device.
  • Sensors 162 and/or 164 may be introduced into the expanded polyolefm 168 prior to injection of the steam to expand the polyolefm beads.
  • the sensors may be place in the railroad tie 160 after demolding of the railroad tie by mechanical insertion means known in the art.
  • a typical railroad tie 12 in at least one embodiment, has a weight ranging from 10 lbs. to 200 lbs. for a 9 inch by 7 inch by 102 inch railroad tie. In another embodiment, railroad tie 12 has a weight ranging from 20 lbs. to 100 lbs. In yet another embodiment, railroad tie 12 has a weight ranging from 30 lbs. to 75 lbs so that the tie can be carried by a single worker.
  • the expanded polyolefin core functions as an energy absorber.
  • railroad tie 12 when using expanded polypropylene as the core, experiences a deflection before permanent set in excess of 25%.
  • the force needed to deflect the railroad tie may be characterized by a spring rate which is a function of a cross-sectional area bending moment of the railroad tie 12, a length of the railroad tie 12 and an elastic modulus of the expanded polyolefin. Having a higher spring rate than wood, the expanded polyolefin in the railroad tie 12 may have a greater yield stress than wood. Having greater yield stress may result in the expanded polyolefin railroad tie having greater energy absorption than the wood railroad ties. Increased energy absorption by the expanded polyolefm-based railroad ties may result in a relatively quiet railroad system when the train passes over the expanded polyolefm- based railroad ties.
  • the spring rate of the railroad tie may be increased or decreased by increasing or decreasing the density of the expanded polyolefin in the railroad tie core by use of methods disclosed in certain embodiments herein.
  • a bumper 180 such as the bumper suitable for a large truck chock block, a parking lot bumper, a dock bumper, a golf cart bumper, a roof for a low-speed vehicle, or ship fenders is schematically illustrated in isometric view in Figure 10.
  • Bumper 180 has an elongated tubular shape with one or more facets 182.
  • the roof for the low- speed vehicle may range in thickness from 0.25 inches to 2 inches, preferable 0.75 inches to 1.25 inches.
  • FIG 11 a longitudinal cross-sectional view along axis 11-11 of Figure 10 is schematically illustrated.
  • the core 184 has a substantially uniform density of steam-expanded polypropylene beads throughout the entire profile of the elongated bumper 180.
  • a pair of through holes 181 extend through the bumper to enable the bumper to be attached to the parking lot surface. Holes 181 can be formed by a large steam pins, while smaller blind holes 183 are formed on the part underside by steam pins spaced as needed across the part.
  • the shell 190 in at least one embodiment, is comprised of two layers: an inner layer 186 and an outer layer 188.
  • the two layers 186 and 188 are formed concurrently when a blow mold parison is formed with two layers by coextrusions or methods known in the art.
  • Inner layer 186 may have a first set of properties, such as recycled plastic composition
  • outer layer 188 may have a second set of properties, such as including an ultraviolet light resistance package or a pigment. It is understood that outer layer 188 may have a different composition from inner layer 186.
  • outer layer 188 may include a co -polymer or 0-5 wt% of linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) in order to increase flexibility of outer layer 188 resulting in reduced stress cracking.
  • LLDPE linear low density polyethylene
  • the number of layers may range from one to 11. It is preferred that inner layer 186, outer layer 188, and core 184, have similar, if not identical compositions, to improve the recyclability of bumper 180.
  • FIG 12 diagrammatically illustrates a method for manufacturing the recyclable plastic structural article having multiple core density zones, in at least one embodiment, which includes blow-molding a hollow elongated shell in step 200.
  • Feed apertures, such as an inlet, and heating ports are cut or pierced during step 202 into the blow-molded elongated shell of step 200.
  • Polyolefm pellets are fed into the cavity of the elongated shell of step 200 during step 204.
  • the density of polyolefm pellets in the lower first end of the elongated shell are feed in first followed by the middle section, and/or the second end is controlled in step 204 during filling of the shell in one or more density zones.
  • step 208 steam is injected at sufficient pressure effective to cause the polypropylene pellets to expand in step 210. Excess pressure is vented to the atmosphere in step 212. The molded railroad tie is allowed to cool in step 214. The mold is opened in step 216 to release the blow-molded recyclable plastic structural article.
  • Blow-molding step 200 preferably includes extruding a tubular parison.
  • the mold is closed on the parison and about 90 to 100 lbf/in pressure gas is applied to the parison interior cavity.
  • the gas injected into the parison causes the plastic to conform to the shape of the walls of the mold.
  • One or more gas injection needles are introduced to the parison prior to the cooling the plastic on the mold walls. Spacing between steam injection needles may vary with the density of unexpanded beads because the steam migration is limited. In at least one embodiment, the spacing between adjacent steam injection needles ranges from 2 inches to 6 inches.
  • feed apertures such as fill ports
  • the cutting tools are withdrawn from the mold and a staged fill sequence for polyolefm pellets begins in step 204.
  • the filling is preferably conducted from the bottom up.
  • the feed apertures are optionally closed with spin-welded plugs.
  • the steam injection needles are injected to introduce steam for an injection time period ranging from 0.5 to 3 seconds, an injection time period sufficient to expand the bead.
  • steam is introduced as super heated steam.
  • steam is introduced at a pressure less than the clamp pressure on the mold sections.
  • steam is introduced in a range of 15 lbf/in to 120 lbf/in 2. In at least one embodiment, the steam is introduced at 280° Fahrenheit and 60 lbf/in 2 pressure.
  • the mold is opened to release the blow-molded railroad tie. In at least one embodiment, the time to cool the railroad tie so that post mold expansion does not substantially occur ranges from about 1 minute to 8 minutes.
  • the mold may be vented to the atmosphere to release excess gas pressure or the mold may be burped, i.e., opened briefly and then re-closed.
  • blow mold sections 240 and 242 define a blow mold cavity 244 into which a molten polyolefm parison 246 is extruded from an extruder 248. Parison 246 defines an internal parison cavity 250.
  • blow mold sections 240 and 242 close upon parison 246.
  • Gas 260 is injected into parison cavity 250 inflating the hot parison 246 while still soft and deformable to conform to the walls of the blow mold cavity 244 defining a shell 262 having a cavity 264 which may be larger than the original parison cavity 250.
  • steps 202 and 204 of Figure 10 are illustrated as feed apertures 270, 272, and 274 are cut through shell 262.
  • Staged filling begins as unexpanded EPP beads 268 are introduced to cavity 264 through an EPP introduction device fitted to blow mold section 242. At a first stage, EPP beads 268 are introduced through feed aperture 270.
  • a second stage introduces unexpanded EPP beads 268 through aperture 272 until that portion of cavity 264 is substantially filled.
  • a third stage introduces unexpanded EPP beads 268 through aperture 274 until the cavity 264 is filled.
  • EPP introduction device (not shown) is withdrawn from apertures 270, 272, and 274.
  • the apertures 270, 272, and 274 are plugged.
  • Steam injection needles 276, 278, 280, 282 are inserted through blow mold section 242 and shell 262 into the filled cavity 264.
  • Figure 14 illustrates an extrusion blow molding machine 300 having a vertical extruder 302 for forming an elongate hollow plastic parison 304 out of plastic skin material supplied by hopper 306.
  • a bold molding machine controller 308 controls the operation of extruder 302 and a mold actuator 310 capable of moving two mold halves 312 and 314 positioned on opposing lateral sides of the extruded parison 304 and between an open position illustrated and a closed position to entrap the parison within an internal cavity formed by internal mold cavity halves 316 and 318.
  • Mold halves 312 and 314 are specifically adapted for forming a foam core article using the described methods.
  • the mold halves are provided with a series of steam injector pins 320-328. Although only five steam pins are illustrated for simplicity purposes, the steam pins will be provided in an array having a sufficient number to thoroughly steam the product to be formed.
  • At least one of the mold halves will be provided with a bead fill gun 330 having a bead fill port which communicates with mold interior cavity portion 316.
  • a single fill gun is illustrated, however, multiple filled guns at various locations can be provided as illustrated previously with respect to Figures 13 a- 13 d.
  • at least one fill gun is located generally proximate the upper region of the mold cavity as illustrated in Figure 14.
  • Fill gun operation is controlled by a foam core system controller 332.
  • foam core system controller 332 is a separate controller which communicates with the blow molding machine controller 308. In that way, the foam core system can be added to existing blow molding extruding systems. Alternatively, the foam core system controller can be incorporated into the blow molding machine controller for new machines or in reconstructed blow molding extrusion machines.
  • the bead fill gun 330 is supplied with expanded bead under pressure from tank 334 which is coupled to the fill gun 330 by an interconnecting supply line containing and valve 336 controlled by foam core controller 332.
  • the expanded bead is supplied to pressurized tank 334 from an expanded bead hopper 338 by a supply line containing a valve 340, again regulated by the foam core system controller 332.
  • the pressure of the expanded bead in tank 334 is maintained by a three-way pressure regulator valve 342 coupling the pressurized tank 334 to a source of pressurized air 344.
  • the operation of the three way pressure regulator valve 342 is controlled by the foam core controller enabling the controller to pressurize the tank to the desired pressure, preferably, 80 to 120 pounds per square inch gauge pressure (PSIG) and to alternatively vent the tank 334 to atmosphere to facilitate the introduction of more bead into the tank.
  • PSIG pounds per square inch gauge pressure
  • the steam pins 320-328 can be alternatively connected to pressurized air source 344, steam source 346, a vacuum source 348 and a vent 350.
  • a steam pin manifolds 352 and 354 are provided. In the illustrate schematic, only two manifolds are shown for simplicity, however, preferably, up to ten and more preferably about 6 manifolds can be operated by the foam core system controller.
  • Each of the manifolds are connected to a series of steam pins and each manifold has an input/output connection to each of the air source, steam source, vacuum and vent 344, 346 and 348 and 350.
  • Each of the input/output connections is controlled by a flow valve operated by the foam core system controller.
  • the extruder forms a tubular hollow plastic parison 304 of the thermoplastic skin material.
  • the blow molding machine controller issues a closed mold signal causing the mold drive 310 to close the mold halves together.
  • the foam core system controller begins operation and temporarily takes over control of the blow molding machine.
  • the extruder will provide pressurized air into the internal cavity defined by the parison in what is known as a puffing operation so that when the mold is closed as illustrated in Figure 15 a, a portion of the partially inflated parison wall will contact a region of the mold cavity as illustrated.
  • One or more steam pins in this first contacted region of the mold will be actuated driving a steam pin needle 356 into the hollow interior cavity of the blow molded parison 304.
  • the foam core controller opens the air valve supplying air to manifold 354 which in turn supplies air to needle 356 to blow the plastic parison 304 into a shell fully conforming it to the interior surfaces of the cavity halves 316 and 318 of mold halves 312 and 314.
  • the controller will open air valves to the other manifolds 354 so that all the needles from all of the steam pins projecting provide preesurized gas such as air into the interior cavity of the parison 304 to fully conform to the interior shape of the mold cavity.
  • foam core system controller will cause all of the steam pins to be vented initially allowing the internal pressure within the shell to drop from the blow molding pressure of 80 to 120 PSIG, preferably 90 PSIG. Once the pressure drops down to about 40 PSIG the fill gun cutter punches or cuts a hole into the hollow shell. The cutter then retracts as illustrated in Figure 15 D, and the filling process begins. When the pressure nears the tank pressure, all of the steam pins will be closed accept the most remote steam pins from the fill gun which were main vented whereupon the control valve 336 will open and the fill gun mandrel will open along via flow from the pressurized tank 334 into the shell cavity in a controlled manner.
  • the venting of the manifold associated with the remote steam pins will be controlled to maintain a desired part cavity pressure.
  • the pressure drops below that of the pressurized bead tanks 334, which is about 30 PSIG + or - 2PSIG bead flows into the shell cavity.
  • the pressure of the vented manifold is maintained approximately 5PSIG below the fill tank pressure providing adequate pressure differential for the quick and orderly filling of the cavity with bead without forming voids.
  • the bead steaming process will begin one-half of the steam pins will be connected to a steam source while the other half of the steam pins will be connected to the vacuum source or alternatively, connected to atmosphere and the system operated without a vacuum source.
  • the initial steam pins provided with steam will be connected to the vacuum source and the remaining pins will be connected to the steam vent and the steam process will continue until the expanded beads are heated sufficiently to expand and melt together and to bond to the wall of the skin.
  • the condensate, removal and cooling step begins.
  • One half of the steam pins will be connected to a source of pressurized air while the other half of the steam pins will be vented to atmosphere.
  • the pins originally connected to pressurized air will be vented to atmosphere and the vented pins will be connected to a source of pressurized air.
  • This step removes condensate from the bead steaming from the expanded bead and causes the bead to be cooled.
  • This process continues until the bead has reached the desired temperature, whereupon the steam pin needles are retracted and the mold halves opened so the part can be de -molded as shown in 15i.
  • the foam core controller passes control of the operation back to the blow molding machine controller so that the next part can be formed.
  • FIG. 16a An enlarged schematic illustration of blow gun 330 is shown in Figures 16a-16d, illustrating various states of operation.
  • the fill gun is shown in the closed orientation.
  • Blow gun 330 is installed in mold cavity half 312.
  • the fill gun has three main components; a fill tube 358 having a distal end flush with the mold cavity interior wall forming a fill aperture surrounded by frusto conical valve seat 360.
  • An elongate mandrel 362 has a distal end forming a face 364 conforming to the cavity wall when the mold halves are in the closed position and a frusto conical surface 366 which cooperates with frusto conical seat 360 of the fill tube 358 to form a tight seal when the mandrel is moved to the closed position as shown in Figure 16a.
  • mandrel 362 prevents beads from entering the cavity and the base of the mandrel 364 and the associated face of the distal end of the fill tube 358 conformed to the interior cavity wall of mold half 312 as the plastic parison 304 is blown into a shell conforming to the cavity interior as illustrated in Figure 16a.
  • a tubular hole saw 368 is operated.
  • the tubular hole saw 368 surrounds fill tube 358 and rotatably fits within a correspondingly sized cylindrical cavity in mold half 312.
  • Tubular hole saw 368 is provided with an external drive gear or sprocket operatively driven by a belt chain or mechanical gear to rotate the saw relative to the mold.
  • a conventional drive 370 can be utilized provided as relatively compact and meets the minimal speed and load requirements of a hole saw.
  • the hole saw is also provided with an actuator mechanism such as a fork operated by a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder to advance the linear rotating hole saw into the cavity interior as shown in Figure 16D, cutting a round plug out of the shell wall whereupon the actuator 372 will retract the hole saw and the operation of the drive mechanism can be terminated.
  • an actuator mechanism such as a fork operated by a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder to advance the linear rotating hole saw into the cavity interior as shown in Figure 16D, cutting a round plug out of the shell wall whereupon the actuator 372 will retract the hole saw and the operation of the drive mechanism can be terminated.
  • the fill process can begin. As shown in Figure 16c, the mandrel 362 is retracted by a linear actuator 374 such as pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder or an electric linear actuator such as ball screw to cause the frusto conical face 366 to lift off of conical seat 360 allowing bead to flow into the interior of the plastic shell. The fill process continues until the plastic shell is completely filled as previously described.
  • a linear actuator 374 such as pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder or an electric linear actuator such as ball screw
  • a tubular passage 376 allows air to be provided to a series of outlet ports in frusto conical face 366, the high pressure blast of air exiting these outlet ports, clears the bead allowing the mandrel to be closed.
  • the fill valve 336 can be maintained in the open position and the pressure in the tank 334 can be reduced enabling the bead to be pushed back through the fill gun and fill line into the pressure tank 334.
  • a single pressure tank is provided coupled to a source of bead. If multiple density bead is to be used, it is possible to have multiple pressure tanks, each with its own supply of different density bead coupled to a single fill gun. After a desired amount of the first bead is introduced, the pressure tank can be vented and pressurized air supplied to the mandrel to blow the bead in the fill tube back into the pressure tank, whereupon the pressure tank valve can be closed and the pressure tank valve for a second source of bead of a different density can be connected to the fill gun to continue the filling process.
  • Figure 17 is a pressure diagram illustrating the pressure in the mold cavity interior as the part is initially blown, vented and filled with bead.
  • the pressure represented by the dotted line is proportional to the pressure within the mold and pressure will be measured at the steam pin manifold or closer to the mold at the steam pin.
  • the cavity pressure is at a blow pressure 380 which is about 80-120 PSIG, preferably about 90 PSIG.
  • the steam pin vents open causing a rapid pressure drop as illustrated in region 381 of pressure curve.
  • a selected pressure in this instance approximately 40 PSIG illustrated at point 383, all the steam pins are closed except for the most distal steam pins allowing the pressure to continue to drop at a reduced rate.
  • the hole saw cuts the fill hole and retracts.
  • a fill pressure which in this embodiment, illustrated at approximately 25 PSIG.
  • the fill gun mandrel opens allowing the bead to introduced into the shell cavity, causing a momentary spike in pressure.
  • the second set of vents open, at point in time 389, allowing filling to continue.
  • the third set of vents at point in time 391.
  • the fill gun goes through a clear and close step causing a momentary spike in pressure as illustrated at time 393.
  • the pressure is maintained at the desired fill pressure by regulating the outlet of the manifold using a vent valve controlled by the system controller 332. Once the fill gun is closed, the manifold is fully vented allowing all of the pins to vent.
  • Figure 14 only illustrated two manifolds and a limited number of steam pins.
  • a typical part will require more than two manifolds with a series of steam pins associated with each manifold.
  • Each of these manifold are independently connectable to air, steam, vacuum and vent.
  • Figure 18 illustrates a mold for an elongate part having a substantial width such as a structural panel.
  • the mold 380 is provided with 12 steam pins 382 oriented in four rows of three with each row representing a zone connected to one of four manifolds 384, 384 ' , 384 " and 384 " ' .
  • Each of the manifolds has an outlet which is preferably located at its lower most point connected to a controllable valve 336 which is regulated by the foam core system controller 332.
  • Each manifold has four inlets in the embodiment illustrated, connected to air source 334, steam source 346, vacuum source 348 and vent 350. As previously noted, it is possible to operate this system without a vacuum source utilizing the vent during the condensate removal process.
  • the inlets in the manifolds are controlled independently by air valve 388, steam valve 390, vacuum valve 392 and vent 394, each operated by the foam core system controller.
  • the corresponding valves for each of the manifolds are also independently controlled by the system controller in the preferred embodiment. Accordingly, a great deal of flexibility in the control of the foam core process is achievable.
  • Each manifold is purged and preheated prior to each steaming operation, thereby maximizing the temperature and dryness of the steam introduced in order to heat the bead with the minimum amount of water, which in turn minimizes the amount of drying time necessary to remove the condensate.
  • each of the steam pins is provided with a linear actuator to drive the steam pins in and out of the mold cavity.
  • a representative steam pin actuator is illustrated in Figure 19.
  • Steam pin assembly 390 includes a needle 392 having a distal end which projects into the mold when extended and a proximate end connected to a steam line 394 which is coupled to the manifold.
  • the steam needle 392 is affixed to a support plate 396 which can be shifted between a needle extended position as shown and a needle retracted position illustrated in dotted outline.
  • the support plate 396 is linearly moved by a pneumatic double ended cylinder 398 between two adjustable stop positions. Cylinder 398 is mounted to the mold half 312 by support bracket as illustrated.
  • the tip of the needle as illustrated in the exploded view has a sharp point and a series of steam ports extending over the portion of the needle that extends through the wall of the plastic shell wall 304, preferably the steam ports in the needle wall end short of the shell 304 wall.
  • the steam needle 392 is made of relatively thin wall stainless steel in order to have good corrosion resistance and low thermal mass.
  • FIG. 20 schematically illustrates a vehicle 410 having a load floor system according to at least one embodiment.
  • Vehicle 410 has a load floor 412 including a load floor door 414 covering a compartment 416 situated beneath load floor 412.
  • Load floor door 414 is hingedly attached to load floor 412 with a living hinge 418.
  • Figure 21 schematically illustrates a fragmentary cross-sectional view of a load floor system component along axis 2-2 of Figure 20 according to at least one embodiment.
  • the cross- sectional view is of panel 420 of load floor 412.
  • Panel 420 includes a first layer 422, a second layer 424 opposed to and spaced apart from first layer 422, and an in-situ foam core 426 disposed therebetween and thermally bonded to a first surface of both the first and second layers 422 and 424, respectively.
  • An aesthetic layer 428 such as a carpet or a backed carpet, is connected to second layer 424 on a second surface opposite from in-situ foam core 426.
  • First layer 422 and includes a plurality of optional embossments 430.
  • a portion of embossments 430 closest to second layer 424 is separated from second layer 424 by a distance ranging from 0.5 inches to 4 inches.
  • a portion of embossments 430 closest to second layer 424 is separated from second layer 424 by a distance ranging from 1 inch to 4 inch.
  • embossments 430 includes an injection port 432 into which a rotary cutter, a bead dispensing device, and a steam pin can be sequentially inserted when creating in-situ foam core 426.
  • first and/or second layer 422 and 424, respectively, thickness may range from 0.02 inches to 0.5 inches. In another embodiment, the thickness of first and/or second layer 422 and 424, respectively, may range from 0.125 inches to 0.25 inches.
  • in-situ foam core 426 thickness may range from 0.15 inches to 6 inches. In another embodiment, in-situ foam core 426 thickness may range from 0.2 inches to 4 inches. In another embodiment, in-situ foam core 26 thickness may range from 0.5 inches to 1 inch.
  • First and/or second layer 422 and 424 are formed of a composition of any moldable composition.
  • the composition include, but is not limited to, a liquid silicone rubber, a synthetic rubber, a natural rubber, a liquid crystal polymer, a synthetic polymer resin, and a natural polymer resin.
  • first and/or second layer 422 and 424, respectively are formed of a composition of a thermoplastic polymer, a thermoset polymer, or blends thereof having a viscosity ranging from 0.1 grams/ 10 min to 40 grams/10 min. The viscosity is measured according to ASTM D-1238 atl90 °C with a 2.16 kg weight.
  • first and/or second layer 422 and 424, respectively are formed of a composition of a polyolefm including polypropylene and polyethylene having a viscosity ranging from 1 grams/ 10 min to 30 grams/ 10 min.
  • In-situ foam core 426 in at least one embodiment, is formed of a composition of any fluid- expandable material.
  • fluid-expandable material include, but are not limited to, a polyolefm polymer composition, a biopolymer expandable bead, an alkenyl aromatic polymer or copolymer, a vinyl aromatic polymer resin composition, and a polystyrene polymer composition.
  • the polyolefm polymer composition includes polyolefm homopolymers, such as low-density, medium-density, and high-density polyethylenes, isotactic polypropylene, and polybutylene-1, and copolymers of ethylene or polypropylene with other: polymerized bull monomers such as ethylene -propylene copolymer, and ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, and ethylene-acrylic acid copolymer, and ethylene-ethyl acrylate copolymer, and ethylene-vinyl chloride copolymer.
  • polyolefm resins may be used alone or in combination.
  • expanded polyethylene (EPE) particles Preferably, expanded polyethylene (EPE) particles, cross-linked expanded polyethylene (xEPE) particles, polyphenyloxide (PPO) particles, biomaterial particles, such as polylactic acid (PLA), and polystyrene particles are used.
  • the polyolefm polymer is a homopolymer providing increased strength relative to a copolymer. It is also understood that some of the particles may be unexpanded, also known as pre -puff, partially and/or wholly pre-expanded without exceeding the scope or spirit of the contemplated embodiments.
  • Pre-expanded beads are the resultant bead after raw bead has undergone a first expansion step of a two-step expansion process for beads.
  • first expansion step raw bead is expanded to 3% to 95% of the fully expanded bead size.
  • the fully expanded bead is the bead that forms in-situ foam core 426.
  • pre-expanded bead is result of the first expansion step where raw bead is expanded from 25% to 19% of the fully- expanded bead 40 size.
  • a fluid for the second expansion step of the two-step expansion process for beads causes the pre-expanded beads to expand completely to form the fully expanded beads.
  • the fluid include, but is not limited to, steam and superheated steam.
  • polyolefin beads and methods of manufacture of pre-expanded polyolefin beads suitable for making the illustrated embodiments are described in Japanese patents JP60090744, JP59210954, JP59155443, JP58213028, and US patent number 4,840,973 all of which are incorporated herein by reference.
  • expanded polyolefins are ARPLANK® and ARPRO® available from JSP, Inc. (Madison Heights, MI).
  • the expanded polypropylene, such as the JSP ARPROTM EPP has no external wall such as first and/or second layers 422 and 424, respectively.
  • in-situ foam core 426 density after expansion by steam such a such as in Figure 22, ranges from 1 lb/ft 3 to 25 lbs/ft 3. In at least one embodiment, in-situ foam core
  • in-situ foam core 426 density after expansion by steam such as in Figure 20, ranges from 1.5 lbs/ft 3 to 15 lbs/ft 3. In at least one embodiment, in-situ foam core 426 density, after expansion by steam such as in Figure 22, ranges from 2 lbs/ft 3 to 9 lbs/ft 3. In at least one embodiment, in-situ foam core 426 density, after
  • expansion by steam such as in Figure 20, ranges from 3 lbs/ft to 6 lbs/ft .
  • steam-injected expanded polypropylene has a density ranging from 1 lb/ft 3 to 20 lbs/ft 3.
  • steam-injected EPP may have a density ranging from 1.5 lbs/ft 3 to 10 lbs/ft 3.
  • steam-injected EPP may have a density ranging from 2 lbs/ft 3 to 6 lbs/ft 3.
  • EPP may have a density ranging from 3 lbs/ft 3 to 5 lbs/ft 3.
  • first and/or second layer 422 and 424, respectively, with a range of 0.025 inch thickness to 0.1 inch thickness is comprised of a metallocene polypropylene. Such a combination is found to improve adhesion between first and/or second layer 422 and 424, respectively, and in-situ foam core 426 formed of EPP.
  • aesthetic layer 428 includes a textile layer such as a carpet layer.
  • aesthetic layer 428 includes a laminate layer.
  • the laminate layer include a hard wood floor layer, a composite laminate over a core, a resin layer, and a polyurethane coating, such as a truck bed liner.
  • Figure 22 schematically illustrates a fragmentary cross-sectional view of a load floor system component, load floor door 414 including living hinge 418 along axis 3-3 of Figure 20 according to at least one embodiment.
  • First layer 422 connects with second layer 424 to form living hinge 418.
  • Second layer 424 does not need to be a load-bearing component that is structurally rigid. It is preferable that the second layer 424 is flexible, and even more preferably stretchable along two axes, that is, biaxially oriented, such that the second layer 424 is durable for at least 1000 cycles of 180° bending. It is more preferable, the in at least one embodiment, second layer 424 is sufficiently flexible that second layer 424 is durable for at least 5000-10,000 cycles of 180° bending.
  • metallocene polypropylene which gives very good adhesion to in-situ foam core 426 formed of EPP also provides sufficient durability for second layer 424 to meet or exceed the requirements of 180° bending of certain embodiments.
  • port 432 is not associated with any embossments of first layer 424, such as the embossment forming living hinge 418.
  • Figures 23A-D schematically illustrate forming load floor 412 using the blowmolding process including parison 450
  • the plastic shaping process could include, but is not limited to, a thermoforming process, a rotomolding process, and a rotocasting process.
  • parison 450 represents the first and second plastic layers of twin-sheet thermoforming process.
  • parison 450 represents the molten plastic that has been coated onto the mold walls by centrifugal force during the rotational movement of the mold.
  • load floor 412 is capable of supporting 0.1 to 0.5 lbf/in when in-situ foam core 480 ranges from 1 inch to 4 inches thick and has a density ranging from 1.5 lbs/ft to 6 lbs/fr and wall 82 ranges from 0.025 inch thickness to 0.1 inch thickness. In another embodiment, load floor 12 is capable of supporting 0.3 to 0.45 lbf/in .
  • load floor 12 includes load floor door 14 having living hinge 18, walls 82 and in- situ foam core 82 thermally bonded to walls 82.
  • Wall 82 thickness ranges from
  • In-situ foam core 80 density ranges from 1 lb/ft to 5 lbs/ft .
  • vehicle 410 includes a vertical wall 500 dividing the vehicle back 502 from the front crew cab 104.
  • vehicle 410 include a type II ambulance, as schematically illustrated in Figure 24, and a commercial delivery vehicle.
  • Vertical wall 500 includes a first skin 506 and second skin (not visible) 508 which forms a cavity 510 therebetween into which an in-situ foam core 512 has been injected and thermally bonded to skins 506 and 508.
  • a golf cart 520 includes a roof 522 having a skin 524 that envelops an in-situ foam core 526.
  • a farm tractor 130 has component panels that include a roof 132, fenders 134 and an engine cover 136. Each panel includes a skin 138 which envelops and is thermally bonded to an in-situ foam core 140.
  • Folding table 150 has a first panel 152, second panel 154 joined with a living hinge 156. Each panel includes a skin 158 thermally bonded to a in-situ foam core 160. In-situ foam core 160 and sufficient density so as to receive and retain bolts from a leg structure 162 with a bolt pull- out force in excess of 200 lbf/in of thread depth.
  • countered top 170 includes a skin 172 thermally bonded to an in-situ molded core 174.
  • an aesthetic surface 176 may be bonded to skin 172.
  • Non-limiting examples of aesthetic surface 176 include a laminate layer, a layer of ceramic composition, and a granite surface.
  • Backboard 180 is illustrated schematically according to one at least embodiment.
  • Backboard 180 is a skin 182 thermally bonded to an in-situ foam core 184.
  • Barricade 186 includes a skin 188 thermally bonded to an in- in situ foam core 190.
  • Scaffold 192 includes a panel 194 having a skin 196 thermally bonded to an in- situ foam core 198.
  • Washing machine 200 includes at least one panel 202 having a skin 204 thermally bonded to an in-situ foam core 206. Having appliances with light weight panels, such as panel 202, is advantageous for installation ease. Appliances with panels such as panel 202 may also be made much quieter by adjusting the density of in-situ foam core 206 to match the sound spectrum of the appliance when operating.
  • Panel 202 in at least one embodiment, has a sound transmission coefficient rating ranging from 25 to 40. In another embodiment, panel 202 as a sound transmission coefficient rating ranging from 30 to 38.
  • a copier to 10 includes a kick plate 212 having a skin 214 thermally bonded to an in-situ foam core 216.
  • the sound deadening wall panel 220 such as suitable for an anechoic chamber or a concert hall, includes an acoustic panel 222 having a skin 224 thermally bonded to an in-situ foam core 226.
  • a roadside sound barrier 230 includes a plurality of panels 232. Each panel has a skin 234 thermally bonded to an in-situ foam core 236.
  • the density of in-situ foam core to 236 can be matched to specific frequencies of sound generated at particular stretches of road depending upon the road surface and the elevation of certain sources of sounds at various frequencies. For example, an asphalt road surface as a different spectrum of frequencies produced when run over by a car tire than does a concrete road surface. Tire -road surface frequencies are generally higher frequency and lower to the ground than frequencies generated by diesel truck exhaust systems and 8 to 10 feet above the ground.
  • conventional concrete roadside sound barrier panels are 5 to 15 times heavier than the equivalent size roadside sound barrier 230.
  • Roadside sound barrier 230 has the cost advantage of not requiring the use of heavy lifting equipment for installation. Further, roadside sound barrier 230 is not degraded by exposure to chloride from road salt applied to northern US roads during winter.
  • FIG. 29 schematically illustrates a vehicle having a seat assembly according to at least one embodiment.
  • a vehicle 710 has a seat assembly 712 including a seat back 714 and a seat base 716.
  • Seat assembly 712 also includes a headrest 718.
  • FIG 30 schematically illustrates the seat back 714 pivotally attached to seat base 716 components and headrest 718 of seat assembly 712 according to at least one embodiment.
  • Seat back 714 and seat base 716 include a skin 730 (see figure 31) and an in-situ foam core 732.
  • the seat back 714 and seat base 716 are a unified component where the skin 730 is formed by a plastic processing technique, such as blowmolding, injection molding, and/or thermoforming.
  • seat back 714 and seat base 716 are separate components with each skin 730 formed by plastic processing technique, such as blowmolding, injection molding, and/or thermoforming, that are assembled into a single unit.
  • seat back 714 and seat base 716 are adjacent at an R point 762, the theoretical hip point used in designing a seat when the seat is set in the rearmost and lowermost seating position.
  • seat back 714 and seat base 716 intersect at a seat back end at an angle 764 creating an obtuse angle ranging from 10° to 30° beyond a vertical intersection between seat back 714 and seat base 716. It is understood that seat back 714 and seat base 716 when these skins are formed separately may be formed by identical or different plastic processing techniques.
  • FIG 31 schematically illustrates a fragmentary cross-sectional view of seat back 714 component and headrest 718 along axis 3-3 of figure 730 according to at least one embodiment.
  • Seat back 714 includes skin 730 which forms a cavity 736 into which in-situ foam core 732 is formed in at least one embodiment, the density of in-situ foam core 732 is of a single density.
  • in-situ foam core 732 is formed of pre-expanded beads 734 after they have been fully expanded and has a plurality of densities resulting from the use of a multiple sizes of pre-expanded beads.
  • In-situ foam core 732 has a thermal bond to skin 730 during the expansion process.
  • Figure 31 schematically illustrates a higher density zone 738 and a lower density zone 740. It is advantageous to have a plurality of zones in order to tailor the necessary strength for the component as well as minimize use of materials and adding of weight.
  • the thermal bond includes a portion of skin 730, a portion of in-situ foam core 732, and a co-mingled layer of a portion of skin 730 and a portion of in- situ foam core 732.
  • Headrest 7718 in at least one embodiment, includes a skin 750 formed by a plastic processing technique, such as blowmolding, injection molding, and/or thermoforming. Skin 750 forms a cavity 736 into which in-situ foam core 754 is injected. Skin 570 and in-situ foam core 754 are covered with a cover stock material 756 in certain embodiments. A chemically-blown or a physically-blown foam is positioned between cover stock material 756 and skin 750 forming a nonstructural, flexible compressive foam component. In another embodiment, skin 750 and in-situ foam core 754 are covered with chemically-blown or physically-blown foam which is then bagged and exposed to a vacuum. Cover stock material 56 is applied about the foam. A stiffening rod 760 is inserted into headrest 718 and is connectable to seat back 714, in at least one embodiment.
  • a plastic processing technique such as blowmolding, injection molding, and/or thermoforming.
  • Skin 750 forms a cavity 736 into which in-sit
  • skin 730 thickness may range from 0.03 inches to 0.5 inches. In another embodiment, the thickness of skin 730 may range from 0.05 inches to 0.25 inches.
  • in-situ foam cores 732 and/or 754 thickness may range from 0.15 inches to 6 inches. In another embodiment, in situ foam core 732 and/or 754 thickness may range from 0.2 inches to 4 inches. In another embodiment, in-situ foam core 732 and/or 754 thickness may range from 0.5 inches to 1 inch.
  • Skins 730 and/or 750 are formed of a composition of any moldable composition.
  • the composition include, but is not limited to, a liquid silicone rubber, a synthetic rubber, a natural rubber, a liquid crystal polymer, a synthetic polymer resin, and a natural polymer resin.
  • skins 730 and/or 750 are formed of a composition of a thermoplastic polymer, a thermoset polymer, or blends thereof having a viscosity ranging from 0.1 grams/ 10 min to 40 grams/ 10 min. The viscosity is measured according to ASTM D-1238 atl90 ° C with a 2.16 kg weight.
  • skins 730 and/or 750 are formed of a composition of a polyolefin including polypropylene and polyethylene having a viscosity ranging from 1 grams/ 10 min to 30 grams/ 10 min.
  • fluid-expandable material include, but are not limited to, a polyolefin polymer composition, a biopolymer expandable bead, an alkenyl aromatic polymer or copolymer, a vinyl aromatic polymer resin composition, and a polystyrene polymer composition.
  • the polyolefin polymer composition includes polyolefin homopolymers, such as low-density, medium-density, and high-density polyethylenes, isotactic polypropylene, and polybutylene-1, and copolymers of ethylene or polypropylene with other: polymerized bull monomers such as ethylene -propylene copolymer, and ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, and ethylene-acrylic acid copolymer, and ethylene-ethyl acrylate copolymer, and ethylene-vinyl chloride copolymer.
  • polyolefin resins may be used alone or in combination.
  • expanded polyethylene (EPE) particles cross-linked expanded polyethylene (xEPE) particles, polyphenyloxide (PPO) particles, biomaterial particles, such as polylactic acid (PLA), and polystyrene particles are used.
  • the polyolefin polymer is a homopolymer providing increased strength relative to a copolymer. It is also understood that some of the particles may be unexpanded, also known as pre -puff, partially and/or wholly pre-expanded without exceeding the scope or spirit of the contemplated embodiments.
  • Pre-expanded bead 734 in at least one embodiment, is the resultant bead after raw bead has undergone a first expansion step of a two-step expansion process for beads. During the first expansion step, raw bead is expanded to 2% to 95% of the fully expanded bead size. The fully expanded bead is the bead that forms in-situ foam core 732. In another embodiment, pre-expanded bead 734 is result of the first expansion step where raw bead is expanded from 25% to 90% of the fully expanded bead size.
  • pre-expanded bead 734 is re-compressed by 10 vol.% to 70 vol.% when being dispersed. Upon being dispersed, pre-expand bead 734 re-expands within the cavity 736.
  • a fluid for the second expansion step of the two-step expansion process for beads causes the pre-expanded beads to expand completely to form the fully expanded beads. Examples of the fluid include, but is not limited to, steam and superheated steam.
  • in-situ foam core 32 density, after expansion by steam such a such as in figure 29, ranges from 0.2 lb/ft 3 to 20 lbs/ft 3. In at least one embodiment, in-situ foam core 32 density, after expansion by steam such as in figure 29, ranges from 1 lbs/ft 3 to 15 lbs/ft 3. In at least one embodiment, in-situ foam core 68 density, after expansion by steam such as in figures
  • in-situ foam core 68 density after expansion by steam such as in figures 31, ranges from 3 lbs/ft 3 to 6 lbs/ft 3.
  • steam-injected expanded polypropylene has a density ranging from 0.2 lb/ft 3 to 20 lbs/ft 3.
  • steam-injected EPP may have a density ranging from 1 lbs/ft 3 to 10 lbs/ft 3.
  • steam-injected EPP may have a density ranging from 2 lbs/ft 3 to 6 lbs/ft 3.
  • steam injected EPP may have a density ranging from 3 lbs/ft 3 to 5 lbs/ft 3.
  • a passenger vehicle seat assembly such as seat assembly 712, having a skin 730 of a polyethylene composition having a thickness ranging between 0.025 inches and 0.25 inches with in- situ foam core 732 density ranging from 1 lb/ft 3 to 5 lbs/ft 3 formed of expanded polyethylene (EPE) that was expanded using steam, passes ECE 17 are surprisingly reducing weight by 5 to 15 pounds relative to a PC/ABS 60/40 composition equivalent passenger vehicle seat assembly. Also, the passenger vehicle seat assembly of this embodiment, reduces weight of the seat assembly by 2 to 7 pounds relative to the blowmolded polyethylene equivalent passenger vehicle seat assembly that preceded the PC/ABS composition seat assembly. That blowmolded polyethylene seat assembly failed to pass ECE 17 testing.
  • EPE expanded polyethylene
  • a skin with a range 0.025 inch thickness to 0.1 inch thickness composed of a metallocene polypropylene was found to improve adhesion between skin 30 and in- situ foam core 732 formed of EPP.
  • an extrusion rate of a blowmolding parison is increased so as to increase the skin 730 thickness at the R point 762 by a range of 25% greater thickness to 100% greater thickness within a band across opposite sides 66 and 68 of seat back 714 and/or seat base 716, respectively, nearest the R point 762 at a distance of 3 inches.
  • EPE expanded polyethylene
  • headrest 718 may be a passive headrest, remaining stationary during rapid deceleration.
  • the passive headrest may be configured to remain within 0.25 inches to 1 inch of a vehicle occupant's head when the occupant is in the normal seated posture.
  • headrest 718 may be an active headrest also described as an active head restraint, which may include an airbag within the area between cover stock material 756 and skin 750.
  • the active head restraint may actively move forward during rapid deceleration or a rear-end collision.
  • seat assembly 712 is illustrated as a first row seat assembly, it is understood that seat assembly 712 maybe suitable for second and third row seat or a 60/40 row seat width distribution assemblies, in certain embodiments. Further, while seat assembly 712 is illustrated is having a headrest 718, in certain embodiments, headrest 18 is optional.
  • seat assembly 712 is configured is the 60/40 rear seat with foam core seat back 714 that experiences a maximum longitudinal displacement of the outermost point of 160 mm when compared to a conventional blowmolded seat back which experiences a maximum longitudinal displacement of 176 mm when tested according to ECE R17 regulation for the luggage retention with a 20 times the force of gravity crash pulse.
  • the foam core seat back 714 experiences a maximum longitudinal displacement of the outermost point of 145 mm when compared to a conventional blowmolded seat back. This means that the seat assembly 12 is passing ECE R17 test by 99.9 mm or approximately 80 rel. % to 99.9 rel. % of the specification. By comparison to conventional blow molded seat backs, the passing margin ranges from 32 rel.
  • seat back 714 deforms beyond a seat's H point plane by a maximum of less than 30 mm relative to a test's H plane maximum allowable deformation of 100 mm when tested according to ECE R17 regulation for luggage retention with a 20 times the force of gravity crash pulse. In at least one embodiment, seat back 714 deforms a maximum of less than 20 mm. In yet another embodiment, seat back 14 deforms a maximum of less than 5 mm. Surprisingly, in yet another embodiment, seat back 14 deforms a maximum of less than 1 mm.
  • seat assembly 712 distributes input energy at least 10 to 20 ms faster than conventional blowmolded seat assemblies, when measured according to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 202A deceleration energy absorption analysis E.
  • FMVSS Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard
  • an entire deceleration of FMVSS202A deceleration energy absorption analysis E for seat back 14 is complete within 80 ms.
  • the deceleration of FMVSS202A deceleration energy absorption analysis E for seat back 14 is 95% complete within 70 ms.
  • the deceleration of FMVSS202A deceleration energy absorption analysis E for seat back 14 is 95% complete within 60 ms.
  • seat assembly 712 distributes input energy at least 10 relative percent to 25 relative percent faster than conventional blowmolded seat assemblies.
  • seat assembly 712 includes a wing 780 disposed along seat back 716 and intended to provide additional protection during crash pulses as schematically illustrated in at least one embodiment in figure 32.
  • the assembly 712 has a trim belt 782 disposed about a region of seat back 714 proximate to seat base 716 and the periphery of seat back 714.
  • trim belt 782 and wing 780 are unitized having a skin 784 including the thermal bond to an in-situ foam core 786.
  • seat assembly 712 includes a frame 800, a first seat component 802 and a second seat component 804.
  • Seat component 802 includes a unitized molded component having a skin 810 and an in-situ foam core 812 including the thermal bond to skin 810.
  • Second seat component 804 includes a unitized molded component having a skin 814 and an in-situ foam core 816 including the thermal bond to skin 814.
  • first seat component 802 includes a molded-in retention device 820 that cooperates with frame 800 to secure and/or position first seat component 802 on frame 800 during an assembly time period.
  • Second seat component 804 includes a molded-in retention device 822 that cooperates with frame 800 to secure and/or position second seat component 822 on frame 800 adjacent to first seat component 802 during the assembly time period. It is understood that the assembly of first seat component 802 with frame 800 and second seat component 804 may be fastened together by means known in the art, such as, but not limited to, a screw 840, a bolt, and/or an adhesive.
  • first seat component 802 and/or second seat component 804 comprise an annular ring.
  • first seat component 802 and/or second seat component 804 include straps disposed between portions of the annular ring.
  • a trim belt 824 is molded as part of the first seat component 802. Trim belt 824 is disposed about wings 826 and a lumbar spine support region 828. It is understood that cushioning components, such as a polyurethane foam 828 may be applied to at least one of first or second seating components 802 or 804, respectively. In addition, in certain embodiments, an aesthetic cover 830 may be applied to at least one of first or second seating components 802 or 804, respectively, disposed either directly on at least one of first or second seating components 802 or 804, respectively, or on cushioning components.
  • cushioning components such as a polyurethane foam 828 may be applied to at least one of first or second seating components 802 or 804, respectively.
  • an aesthetic cover 830 may be applied to at least one of first or second seating components 802 or 804, respectively, disposed either directly on at least one of first or second seating components 802 or 804, respectively, or on cushioning components.
  • second seat component 804 includes a central portion 844 disposed between portions of trim belt 824.
  • Central portion 844 includes at least one accessory module such as a molded-in module like a wireway 832 for seat back wires 834, a seat back environmental temperature control conduit 836 that is adjacent to at least one seat back environmental temperature control embossments 838 for use in transmitting hot or cold air from the conduit 836 and from foam 828 and aesthetic over 830.
  • accessory module such as a molded-in module like a wireway 832 for seat back wires 834, a seat back environmental temperature control conduit 836 that is adjacent to at least one seat back environmental temperature control embossments 838 for use in transmitting hot or cold air from the conduit 836 and from foam 828 and aesthetic over 830.
  • a cover plate 842 is adjacent to central portion 844 providing an aesthetic over as well as, optionally, amenities, such as a map pocket (not shown).
  • FIG 34 illustrates a unified seat back 814 and seat base in first seat component 802 and second seat component 804, segmented two piece seat with a separate seat back 814 and seat base 814 are contemplated.
  • seat back 814 can have its own first seat back component pivotally attached to the seat base and second seat back component, such as a head rest that is connected to the seat back frame in a conventional manner.
  • Figure 35 schematically illustrates a vehicle 910 has an energy management system including a structural bumper system 912 for front and rear bumpers according to at least one embodiment.
  • FIG. 36 schematically illustrates a fragmentary cross-sectional view of structural bumper system 912 along axis 2-2 of figure 35 according to at least one embodiment.
  • Structural bumper system 912 includes a vehicle frame member 914, a structural plastic beam 916, an energy absorbing component 918, and a bumper fascia 920.
  • Structural plastic beam 916 includes a wall 930 having a thermal bond to an in- situ foam core 932.
  • the thermal bond includes the cooled connection of a molten or softened portion of wall 930, a molten or softened portion of in-situ foam core 932, and a co- mingled layer including portions of both wall 930 and core 932.
  • Structural plastic beam 916 is connected to a vehicle frame member 914 with an adhesive layer 934 comprising an adhesive. It should be understood that any fastening method known in the art is suitable for connecting structural plastic beam 16 to vehicle frame member 914 without exceeding the scope or the spirit of the embodiments.
  • Secured to structural plastic beam 916 is energy absorbing component 918. It should be understood that energy absorbing component 918 may be directly connected to structural plastic beam 916 or indirectly connected with optional layers of material and/or separation space being present. Connected to and/or spaced apart from energy absorbing component 918 is bumper fascia 920.
  • the energy management system for vehicle 910 is capable of passing a 5-mph crash test according to a Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 215 (FMVSS 215) Phase II specification.
  • the energy management system for vehicle 10 is capable of meeting the requirements of 49 CFR Part 581.5 when measured according to 49 CFR Part 581.6 and 581.7.
  • In-situ foam core 932 is prepared by injecting steam into pre-expanded beads dispensed into cavity 936 defined by wall 930.
  • at least two diameters of pre- expanded beads are dispensed into cavity 936 forming two zones 938 and 940 having different average densities of fully expanded beads 942 to comprise in-situ foam core 932.
  • First zone 38 has relatively larger diameter beads of fully expanded beads than second zone 40. Therefore, the first zone 938 has a relatively lower average density than second zone 940. It is understood that while first zone 938 is illustrated as being disposed about structural plastic beam 916 neutral axis, first zone 938 may be disposed at any position within cavity 936.
  • zones of different average densities there may be a plurality of zones of different densities without exceeding the scope or spirit of embodiments. It is yet further understood that the zones may be established in a relatively arbitrary manner such as delimiting zones along a gradient of average densities within the article.
  • wall 30 thickness may range from 0.03 inches to 0.5 inches. In another embodiment, wall 30 thickness may range from 0.05 inches to 0.25 inches.
  • in-situ foam core 32 thickness may range from 0.15 inches to 6 inches. In another embodiment, in-situ foam core 32 thickness may range from 0.2 inches to 4 inches. In another embodiment, in-situ foam core 32 thickness may range from 0.5 inches to 1 inch.
  • the energy management system has weight and weighs less than 50 lbs. In another embodiment, the energy management system weight ranges from 10 to 40 lbs. In yet another embodiment, the energy management system weight ranges from 15 to 30 lbs.
  • Wall 30, in at least one embodiment, is formed of a composition of any moldable composition.
  • the composition include, but are not limited to, a liquid silicone rubber, a synthetic rubber, a natural rubber, a liquid crystal polymer, a synthetic polymer resin, and a natural polymer resin.
  • first and/or second layer 922 and 924, respectively, are formed of a composition of a thermoplastic polymer, a thermoset polymer, or blends thereof having a viscosity ranging from 0.1 grams/ 10 min to 40 grams/ 10 min. The viscosity is measured according to ASTM D-1238 at 190 °C with a 2.16 kg weight.
  • first and/or second layer 922 and 924, respectively are formed of a composition of a polyolefin including polypropylene and polyethylene having a viscosity ranging from 1 grams/ 10 min to 30 grams/ 10 min.
  • In-situ foam core 32 in at least one embodiment, is formed of a composition of any fluid- expandable material.
  • fluid-expandable material include, but are not limited to, a polyolefm polymer composition, a biopolymer expandable bead, an alkenyl aromatic polymer or copolymer, a vinyl aromatic polymer resin composition, and a polystyrene polymer composition.
  • the polyolefm polymer composition includes polyolefm homopolymers, such as low-density, medium-density, and high-density polyethylenes, isotactic polypropylene, and polybutylene-1, and copolymers of ethylene or polypropylene with other: polymerized bull monomers such as ethylene -propylene copolymer, and ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, and ethylene-acrylic acid copolymer, and ethylene-ethyl acrylate copolymer, and ethylene-vinyl chloride copolymer.
  • polyolefm resins may be used alone or in combination.
  • expanded polyethylene (EPE) particles Preferably, expanded polyethylene (EPE) particles, cross-linked expanded polyethylene (xEPE) particles, polyphenyloxide (PPO) particles, biomaterial particles, such as polylactic acid (PLA), and polystyrene particles are used.
  • the polyolefm polymer is a homopolymer providing increased strength relative to a copolymer. It is also understood that some of the particles may be unexpanded, also known as pre -puff, partially and/or wholly pre-expanded without exceeding the scope or spirit of the contemplated embodiments.
  • Pre-expanded beads are the resultant beads after raw beads have undergone a first expansion step of a two-step expansion process for beads.
  • first expansion step raw bead is expanded to 2% to 95% of the fully expanded bead size.
  • the fully expanded bead is the bead that forms in-situ foam core 926.
  • pre-expanded bead is result of the first expansion step where raw beads are expanded from 25% to 90%> of the fully-expanded beads 942 size. It is understood that pre-expanded beads may be partially recompressed during introduction to cavity 936, if the introduction process occurs under pressure.
  • introduction process pressure ranges from 5 lbf/in above ambient to 50 lbf/in above ambient. In at least one embodiment, introduction process pressure ranges from 15 lbf/in 2 above ambient to 35 lbf/in 2 above ambient.
  • a fluid for the second expansion step of the two-step expansion process for beads causes the pre-expanded beads to expand completely to form the fully expanded beads.
  • the fluid include, but are not limited to, steam and superheated steam.
  • polyolefm beads and methods of manufacture of pre-expanded polyolefm beads suitable for making the illustrated embodiments are described in Japanese patents JP60090744, JP59210954, JP59155443, JP58213028, and US patent number 4,840,973 all of which are incorporated herein by reference.
  • expanded polyolefins are ARPLANK® and ARPRO® available from JSP, Inc. (Madison Heights, MI).
  • the expanded polypropylene, such as the JSP ARPROTM EPP has no external wall such as energy absorbing component 918.
  • in-situ foam 932 core has a density, after expansion by steam
  • in-situ foam core 32 density, after expansion by steam ranges from 1.5 lbs/ft 3 to 15 lbs/ft 3. In at least one embodiment, in-situ foam core 32 density, after expansion by steam, ranges from 2 lbs/ft 3 to 9 lbs/ft 3. In at least one embodiment, in-situ foam core 932 has density, after expansion by steam, ranges from 3 lbs/ft to 6 lbs/ft 3 .
  • structural plastic beam 916 is comprised of steam-
  • injected expanded polypropylene has a density ranging from 1 lb/ft to 20 lbs/ft .
  • steam-injected EPP may have a density ranging from 1.5 lbs/ft 3 to 10 lbs/ft 3.
  • steam-injected EPP may have a density ranging from 2 lbs/ft to 6 lbs/ft 3. In yet another embodiment, steam-injected EPP may have a density ranging from 3 lbs/ft 3 to
  • structural plastic beam 16 and structural bumper system 912 pass the 5-mph crash test and are recyclable.
  • wall 930 with a range of 0.025 inch thickness to 0.1 inch thickness is comprised of a metallocene polypropylene. Such a combination is found to improve adhesion between wall 930 and in-situ foam core 932 formed of EPP.
  • FIG. 37A a method of manufacture of a structural bumper system according to at least one embodiment is schematically illustrated in fragmentary cross-sectional views.
  • a first mold portion 980 and a second mold portion 982 are spaced about a polymeric parison 984 as part of a blowmolding process.
  • First mold portion 980 has a port 986 suitable for use with injection devices.
  • Figure 37B schematically illustrates closing of first mold portion 980 with second mold portion 982 pinching polymeric parison 984 between them.
  • Polymeric parison 984 forms walls 988 of an energy management component 990 and defining a cavity 992.
  • a drill bit 1000 enters port 986 and drills through a portion of wall 988 opening an aperture 1002 into cavity 992.
  • Drill bit 1000 withdraws from port 986 and a bead dispenser 1004 enters port 986.
  • a valve 1006 opens allowing a plurality of pre-expanded beads 1008 from a bead source 1010 to enter cavity 992.
  • Bead dispenser 104 withdraws from port 986 and steam pin 1012 and steam vent 1014 enter port 986 in figure 37D.
  • Steam pin 1012 further enters cavity 992 and into pre-expanded beads 1008.
  • a valve 1016 of a steam source 1018 opens allowing steam and/or superheated steam to enter cavity 992 causing expansion of pre-expanded beads 1008 forming fully expanded beads. Residual steam exits through steam vent 1014.
  • first mold portion 980 closes, thereby compacting pre-expanded beads 1008 in gap 1022.
  • Steam pin 1012 and steam vent 1014 enter port 986 and inject steam into compressed pre-expanded beads 1008 in gap 1022 causing expansion of pre-expanded beads 1008 in 1022 forming fully expanded beads.
  • the full expanded beads comprise an energy absorbing component 918 thermally bonded to wall 988 of structural plastic beam 16 where wall 988 encompasses in-situ foamed core 1020.
  • a glovebox 1042 and a knee bolster 1044 include a scheme 0146 thermally bonded to an in-situ foam core 1048.
  • the density of in-in situ foamed core 1048 assists in energy management of an impact with the area of the dashboard containing glovebox 1042 and knee bolster 144.
  • other embodiments may use a heating medium other than steam without exceeding the scope of contemplated embodiments.
  • the expanded polyolefm may be formed using a heating medium in cooperation with a blowing agent, such as pertane.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Manufacturing & Machinery (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Composite Materials (AREA)
  • Blow-Moulding Or Thermoforming Of Plastics Or The Like (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention porte sur un article plastique structural à cœur en mousse moulée in-situ ayant une coquille extérieure qui présente une cavité intérieure remplie de billes de polymère expansibles qui, lorsqu'elles sont expansées, remplissent sensiblement la cavité intérieure, en formant une liaison thermique avec la coquille. Les billes et la coquille sont d'une composition plastique similaire, ce qui permet de retraiter et de recycler les articles. Divers articles sont décrits, dont des panneaux structuraux, des sièges d'automobile, un plancher de charge, un panneau intérieur, un pare-chocs et des composants de tablier ferroviaire mobiles. Un appareil pour la formation des articles et un procédé de fabrication correspondant sont aussi décrits.
PCT/US2013/034312 2012-03-28 2013-03-28 Articles structuraux en matière plastique recyclable et procédé de fabrication Ceased WO2013148977A1 (fr)

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EP13769879.1A EP2830861A4 (fr) 2012-03-28 2013-03-28 Articles structuraux en matière plastique recyclable et procédé de fabrication
US14/389,019 US10207606B2 (en) 2012-03-28 2013-03-28 Recyclable plastic structural articles and method of manufacture

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US201261616985P 2012-03-28 2012-03-28
US201261616988P 2012-03-28 2012-03-28
US201261616948P 2012-03-28 2012-03-28
US61/616,988 2012-03-28
US61/616,948 2012-03-28
US61/616,985 2012-03-28
US13/463,700 US8840819B2 (en) 2012-03-28 2012-05-03 In-situ foam core structural energy management system and method of manufacture
US13/463,705 2012-05-03
US13/463,700 2012-05-03
US13/463,705 US20130255176A1 (en) 2012-03-28 2012-05-03 In-situ foam core panel systems and method of manufacture
US13/463,682 US9073462B2 (en) 2012-03-28 2012-05-03 In-situ foam core vehicle seating system and method of manufacture
US13/463,682 2012-05-03
US13/840,827 2013-03-15
US13/840,827 US9346237B2 (en) 2010-10-27 2013-03-15 Recyclable plastic structural articles and method of manufacture

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EP2889119A1 (fr) * 2013-12-25 2015-07-01 Jsp Corporation Procédé de production d'article moulé en mousse recouvert de peau
WO2021243431A1 (fr) * 2020-06-03 2021-12-09 Braskem S.A. Traverse de voie ferrée

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