×

Joining polymer workpieces to other components

  • US 20080236720A1
  • Filed: 03/27/2007
  • Published: 10/02/2008
  • Est. Priority Date: 03/27/2007
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
Patent Images

1. A method of attaching a shape memory polymer workpiece to a second workpiece where the workpieces have facing surfaces for the attachment, the method comprising:

  • forming an attachment hole in the facing surface of the second workpiece;

    placing the facing surface of the polymer workpiece overlying the attachment hole of the second workpiece, the facing surface of the polymer workpiece having no preformed protuberance for entry into the attachment hole;

    activating at least a facing surface region of the shape memory polymeric workpiece to a softened condition;

    applying a force to push and deform softened shape memory material from the surface region of the shape memory polymer workpiece into the attachment hole;

    retaining a force against the softened polymeric material while the deformed softened shape memory material flows, in an attempt to recover its original shape, to form a mechanical attachment with the second workpiece; and

    cooling the softened material, while maintaining an external force on it, to strengthen the mechanical attachment between the polymer workpiece and the second workpiece.

View all claims
  • 12 Assignments
Timeline View
Assignment View
    ×
    ×