Charles Luke Berry

US Patent:

6413460, Jul 2, 2002

Filed:

Sep 10, 1998

Appl. No.:

09/151004

Inventors:

Aaron Stanley Wisniewski - Plymouth MI
Talavane Suryanarayan - Ypsilanti MI
Hazel Wagner - Brighton MI
Frederick J. Homburg - Woodhaven MI
Calvin Columbus Nichols - Sylvania OH
Charles Luke Berry - Westland MI

Assignee:

Visteon Global Technologies, Inc. - Dearborn MI

International Classification:

B29C 4514

US Classification:

264254, 264255, 264267, 264278, 2643287, 2643288, 425127, 4251291

Abstract:

A method of producing a partially covered panel comprising a series of manufacturing steps. A covering is formed to have a perimeter portion. The covering is generally formed using a thermoforming operation. The perimeter portion is formed into a flange-shape. A mold movable between open and closed position is moved to an open position. The mold includes a first and second surface. The covering is placed juxtaposed the first surface. A retainer is extended to retain the covering in position prior to and during the molding operation. The retainer engages the perimeter flange portion of the covering. The mold is moved to the closed position. The retainer, covering and first surface define a first cavity section. A first quantity of molten plastic is injected under pressure into this first cavity section. The molten plastic pushes the flange portion against the retainer and the retainer prevents the seepage of plastic between the first surface and the covering.