초록 ▼

An apparatus for molding composite articles includes a pair of opposed matched-tool mold sections, each having a rigid housing and a thin, semi-rigid membrane removably and sealably mounted on the housing so as to define a fluid-tight chamber therein. The chamber of each mold section is filled with

An apparatus for molding composite articles includes a pair of opposed matched-tool mold sections, each having a rigid housing and a thin, semi-rigid membrane removably and sealably mounted on the housing so as to define a fluid-tight chamber therein. The chamber of each mold section is filled with a noncompressible heat-conductive fluid to provide fluid backing to the portions of each membrane defining the molding surfaces of each mold section. A system of temperature control coils extending within each chamber are connected to an external heater/chiller unit to permit circulation therethrough of a suitable temperature control fluid, whereby positive control of the temperature of the backing fluid and, correlatively, the molding surfaces of the membranes.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. An injection molding apparatus comprising a pair of opposed mold sections, wherein each of said mold sections includes a rigid housing and a semi-rigid membrane removably mounted to the housing so as to define a fluid-tight chamber within each of said mold sections, the

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. An injection molding apparatus comprising a pair of opposed mold sections, wherein each of said mold sections includes a rigid housing and a semi-rigid membrane removably mounted to the housing so as to define a fluid-tight chamber within each of said mold sections, the membranes of each of said mold sections defining a molding surface thereof, the opposed molding surfaces of said mold sections defining a mold plenum; a first non-compressible fluid disposed within and filling the chamber of each of said mold sections; an expansion chamber in fluid communication with the chamber of one of said mold sections, and valve means for isolating said expansion chamber from the chamber of one of said mold sections; wherein the molding surfaces define a plenum zone that forms a resin and fiber composite into a shape.