Abstract:
The present invention relates to a composite material comprising a layer of open-cell foam mateπal; a layer of gel-infused foam material disposed adjacent to the open-cell foam material; and a barrier layer disposed adjacent to the gel-infused foam material, opposite the open-cell foam material. In addition, the present invention relates to a method of making a composite material by forming a gel-infused foam material by disposing a gel precursor material onto the foam material, such that at least a portion of the gel precursor material at least partially penetrates the foam material and allowing the gel precursor material to cure. The composite material can be used to improve comfort, durability, heat dissipation, insulation, and aesthetic appearance of cushioning materials for application as padding for mattress toppers and the like.
Abstract:
Disclosed herein is a molding system that facilitates the molding of very thick products from materials such as gel and/or mechanically frothed foam, substantially free of visual defects, such as air bubbles, by controlling the rate of mold closure and/or interrupting the mold closure.
Abstract:
The present disclosure relates to cushioning members, methods of making and methods of using, particularly to cushioning members comprising a plurality of spaced apart pillars comprising a polymeric material.
Abstract:
The present disclosure relates to cushioning medallions, methods of making and methods of using, particularly cushioning medallions comprising a relatively low durometer viscoelastic polymer gel, for use on a bicycle seat.
Abstract:
The present disclosure relates to cushioning medallions, methods of making and methods of using, particularly cushioning medallions comprising a relatively low durometer viscoelastic polymer gel, for use in gloves or on the body. The Invention further describes the use of a barrier layer and removable stabilization layer in conjunction with the polymer gel layer for forming a contoured structure conformed to fit portions of a user's hand in a glove in which the cushioning medallion is positioned.
Abstract:
A high volume air sampler is disclosed. The high volume air sampler is adapted to draw samples of air that will be passing through the interior of an airplane's interior fuselage. The air may be drawn from a bleed valve (11) of a gas turbine engine (10) that supplies the air to the airplane interior. The high volume air sampler draws a sufficient volume of air so that sampling methods and/or detectors can detect airborne impurities. The high volume air sampling system includes the use of flexible hose for receiving engine bleed air. The system also includes a collar (40) that adapts the flexible hose for use with a sample canister.
Abstract:
Disclosed herein are conformable protection pads, which can be integrated into articles such as clothing and protective cases. In one embodiment, an exemplary cushioning pad includes a first channel comprising a thickness and a width. The first channel comprises a continuous upper layer and a continuous lower layer, which is at least partially bonded to the continuous lower layer. The cushioning region is disposed adjacent to the first channel, and has a thickness greater than the thickness of the first channel. The cushioning region further includes a cushioning material disposed between and bonded to the continuous upper layer and the continuous lower layer. A groove maybe defined in the upper surface of the cushioning region, with a thickness less than the thickness of the cushioning region and greater than the thickness of the first channel..