CA2036088A1 - Method of forming a vehicle seat with a removable vacuum seal - Google Patents
Method of forming a vehicle seat with a removable vacuum sealInfo
- Publication number
- CA2036088A1 CA2036088A1 CA002036088A CA2036088A CA2036088A1 CA 2036088 A1 CA2036088 A1 CA 2036088A1 CA 002036088 A CA002036088 A CA 002036088A CA 2036088 A CA2036088 A CA 2036088A CA 2036088 A1 CA2036088 A1 CA 2036088A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- seat
- forming tool
- cover member
- bun
- barrier material
- 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.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims description 31
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 58
- 239000006260 foam Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 27
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 17
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 17
- 230000004888 barrier function Effects 0.000 claims description 46
- 229920000126 latex Polymers 0.000 claims description 9
- 239000004816 latex Substances 0.000 claims description 9
- 238000003825 pressing Methods 0.000 claims description 8
- 229920001169 thermoplastic Polymers 0.000 claims description 8
- 239000004416 thermosoftening plastic Substances 0.000 claims description 8
- 230000000295 complement effect Effects 0.000 claims description 6
- 238000007689 inspection Methods 0.000 claims description 3
- 229920000098 polyolefin Polymers 0.000 claims description 3
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 abstract description 4
- 239000002131 composite material Substances 0.000 description 10
- 238000007666 vacuum forming Methods 0.000 description 4
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000011179 visual inspection Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000037303 wrinkles Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229920002635 polyurethane Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000004814 polyurethane Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000000712 assembly Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000000429 assembly Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000008859 change Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009826 distribution Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000004744 fabric Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000010348 incorporation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 150000002500 ions Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 238000010030 laminating Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 1
- MYWUZJCMWCOHBA-VIFPVBQESA-N methamphetamine Chemical compound CN[C@@H](C)CC1=CC=CC=C1 MYWUZJCMWCOHBA-VIFPVBQESA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000011148 porous material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000009467 reduction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000002441 reversible effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007790 scraping Methods 0.000 description 1
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
- B29C63/00—Lining or sheathing, i.e. applying preformed layers or sheathings of plastics; Apparatus therefor
- B29C63/02—Lining or sheathing, i.e. applying preformed layers or sheathings of plastics; Apparatus therefor using sheet or web-like material
- B29C63/025—Lining or sheathing, i.e. applying preformed layers or sheathings of plastics; Apparatus therefor using sheet or web-like material applied by a die matching with the profile of the surface of resilient articles, e.g. cushions, seat pads
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C7/00—Parts, details, or accessories of chairs or stools
- A47C7/02—Seat parts
- A47C7/18—Seat parts having foamed material included in cushioning part
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B68—SADDLERY; UPHOLSTERY
- B68G—METHODS, EQUIPMENT, OR MACHINES FOR USE IN UPHOLSTERING; UPHOLSTERY NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B68G7/00—Making upholstery
- B68G7/05—Covering or enveloping cores of pads
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10S297/00—Chairs and seats
- Y10S297/01—Foam
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10S297/00—Chairs and seats
- Y10S297/02—Molded
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T156/00—Adhesive bonding and miscellaneous chemical manufacture
- Y10T156/10—Methods of surface bonding and/or assembly therefor
- Y10T156/1002—Methods of surface bonding and/or assembly therefor with permanent bending or reshaping or surface deformation of self sustaining lamina
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T156/00—Adhesive bonding and miscellaneous chemical manufacture
- Y10T156/10—Methods of surface bonding and/or assembly therefor
- Y10T156/1002—Methods of surface bonding and/or assembly therefor with permanent bending or reshaping or surface deformation of self sustaining lamina
- Y10T156/1028—Methods of surface bonding and/or assembly therefor with permanent bending or reshaping or surface deformation of self sustaining lamina by bending, drawing or stretch forming sheet to assume shape of configured lamina while in contact therewith
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T156/00—Adhesive bonding and miscellaneous chemical manufacture
- Y10T156/10—Methods of surface bonding and/or assembly therefor
- Y10T156/1002—Methods of surface bonding and/or assembly therefor with permanent bending or reshaping or surface deformation of self sustaining lamina
- Y10T156/1028—Methods of surface bonding and/or assembly therefor with permanent bending or reshaping or surface deformation of self sustaining lamina by bending, drawing or stretch forming sheet to assume shape of configured lamina while in contact therewith
- Y10T156/103—Encasing or enveloping the configured lamina
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T156/00—Adhesive bonding and miscellaneous chemical manufacture
- Y10T156/10—Methods of surface bonding and/or assembly therefor
- Y10T156/1002—Methods of surface bonding and/or assembly therefor with permanent bending or reshaping or surface deformation of self sustaining lamina
- Y10T156/1039—Surface deformation only of sandwich or lamina [e.g., embossed panels]
- Y10T156/1041—Subsequent to lamination
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T156/00—Adhesive bonding and miscellaneous chemical manufacture
- Y10T156/10—Methods of surface bonding and/or assembly therefor
- Y10T156/1002—Methods of surface bonding and/or assembly therefor with permanent bending or reshaping or surface deformation of self sustaining lamina
- Y10T156/1043—Subsequent to assembly
Abstract
ABSTRACT OF THE INVENTION
A method of manufacturing a portion of a vehicle seat assembly utilizing a stylized forming tool and bonding a seat cover to a foam seat bun having a predetermined surface contour. The seat cover is positioned exterior side down on the stylized forming tool. A film of air impermeable material is then placed over the seat cover and a vacuum is applied between the impermeable material and the forming tool so as to draw the seat cover down into substantial conformity with style lines on the upper surface of the forming tool. The impermeable material is then removed and an adhesive coated foam seat bun is positioned and compressed against the seat cover on the forming tool. Once the seat cover and the seat bun are bonded together by the adhesive, the seat assembly is removed from the forming tool. The outer edges of the seat covers are then fastened together or to the underside of the seat bun so as to complete the assembly of the seat portion.
A method of manufacturing a portion of a vehicle seat assembly utilizing a stylized forming tool and bonding a seat cover to a foam seat bun having a predetermined surface contour. The seat cover is positioned exterior side down on the stylized forming tool. A film of air impermeable material is then placed over the seat cover and a vacuum is applied between the impermeable material and the forming tool so as to draw the seat cover down into substantial conformity with style lines on the upper surface of the forming tool. The impermeable material is then removed and an adhesive coated foam seat bun is positioned and compressed against the seat cover on the forming tool. Once the seat cover and the seat bun are bonded together by the adhesive, the seat assembly is removed from the forming tool. The outer edges of the seat covers are then fastened together or to the underside of the seat bun so as to complete the assembly of the seat portion.
Description
- 203~
METH~D OF FORMING A VE~ICLE SEAT WITH
A REMOVABLE VACUUM SEAL
BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY ~F_THE INVENTION
This invention relates generally to the field of vehicle seat assemblies and more particularly to a method of forming a vehicle seat having a s~ylized, contoured surface.
Typically, in the production of a vehicle seat, a forming tool is constructed having a surface contour complementary to the desired shape of the finished vehicle seat or back. One example of such a tool is disclosed in U.S.
Patent No. 4,740,260, issued April 26, 1988, entitled "Method And A~paratus For Manufacturing seats And Articles Formed Thereby", assigned to the assignee o~ the present invention.
Another method of $orming contours in vehicle seat members is disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 205,929, filed ~une 13, 19~8, enti~led "Vehicle Seat Assembly With Pour In Place Foam Body", and assigned to the assignee of thi~
application.
In bvth the above mentioned application and patent, a vehicle seat cover member is placed in~ide out on the forming to~l. A pressing tool, having conto~rs the same as the desir~d finish d product, then applies pressure against the seat cover member to con~orm the cover member to the contours of the forming ~ool. The pressing and forming tools described in the above patent and application must be individually tooled for each new seat design. Accordingly, the tools are relatively expensive to produce.
METH~D OF FORMING A VE~ICLE SEAT WITH
A REMOVABLE VACUUM SEAL
BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY ~F_THE INVENTION
This invention relates generally to the field of vehicle seat assemblies and more particularly to a method of forming a vehicle seat having a s~ylized, contoured surface.
Typically, in the production of a vehicle seat, a forming tool is constructed having a surface contour complementary to the desired shape of the finished vehicle seat or back. One example of such a tool is disclosed in U.S.
Patent No. 4,740,260, issued April 26, 1988, entitled "Method And A~paratus For Manufacturing seats And Articles Formed Thereby", assigned to the assignee o~ the present invention.
Another method of $orming contours in vehicle seat members is disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 205,929, filed ~une 13, 19~8, enti~led "Vehicle Seat Assembly With Pour In Place Foam Body", and assigned to the assignee of thi~
application.
In bvth the above mentioned application and patent, a vehicle seat cover member is placed in~ide out on the forming to~l. A pressing tool, having conto~rs the same as the desir~d finish d product, then applies pressure against the seat cover member to con~orm the cover member to the contours of the forming ~ool. The pressing and forming tools described in the above patent and application must be individually tooled for each new seat design. Accordingly, the tools are relatively expensive to produce.
2~3~088 Along with increased tooling expenses, prior art methods exhibit other limitations. One limitation is the bulk o~ th~ machinery required during the pressing stage. A second limitation is the general inability to detect wrinkles in the seat cover member before the bonding of a foam seat bun to the cover member. Elaborate surface contours are still another limitation because of unequal material distribution occurring during the pressing stage.
Forming tools having removable style inserts, which permit the simple modification or changing of the insert instead of the complete replacement of the tool, are described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 310,351, filed February 14, 1989, and assigned to the assignee of this application.
These forming tools allow for the easy interchanging of styles and thus, a reduction in overall tooling costs.
During assembly of a vehicle seat, the seat cover member is placed over the forming tool and drawn in~o substantial conformity with the style lines or contours of the insert. The drawing of the material is accomplished either by press forming with an appropriately shaped pressing tool or by a vacuum forming process. A ~oam seat bun is then adhered to the seat cover member with a suitable adhesive.
In order to properly form the desired seat surface, the seat bun must have a predetermined shape corresponding to the style insert used to form the contours in the seat cover member. Thus, different seat buns are required for each - ~3~
different contour style desixed in a ~inished vehicle seat surface.
U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 345,7~9, filed May 1, 1989, also assigned to the assignee of this application, discloses a method for eliminating the requirement of seat buns having a predetermined shape in order to more economically fabricate the finished vehicle seat assembly. The method disclosed in the proceeding patent application first constructs a composite layer by laminating a breathable seat cover member to a polymeric foam sheet. This composite is then cut into a shape appropriate for the style insert being used~ A seat skirt fabric is then sewn to the edges of the cover member of the composite. The composite portion is then positioned with the cover member down against the style insert of the forming tool. Next, a sheet of impermeable barrier material is placed over the foam surface of the composite. A vacuum then draws the composite into substantial conformity with the style insert. ~ flat upper surface of a generic foam seat bun is then sprayed with a suitable adhesive and pressed against the drawn composite.
Finally, heat, which can be in the form of steam, is forced through the composite to partially evaporate the barrier. The foam surface of the composite is thus enabled to bond to the foam seat bun.
A problem incuxred by the proceeding and other prior art is breathability. Incorporation of the barrier material into the seat construction, as done in vacuum forming, -- 2~3~g8 initiates the problem. In some situations the seat is completely non-breathable. This arises when the entire layer of impermeable barrier material remains an element of the seat construction. In other situations the finished seat is semi-breathable. U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 345,789, where the barrier material is partially evaporated, displays this limitation.
It is an object of the present invention to eliminate breathability problems while continuing to employ a vacuum forming process. It is another object of the invention to eliminate forming process errors and the various problems associated with elaborate seat designs. In so doing, machinery bulk and tooling costs will also be reduced.
The method according to the present invention first places a seat cover member, exterior side down, over a forming tool. The ~orming tool can be any of those presently used in the industry which employ vacuum forming.
After the seat cover member is properly positioned, a thin sheet of clear barrier material, such as latex or polyolefin film, is presented over the seat cover member. The barrier material will form an air impermeable layer over the seat cover member and the upper sur~ace of the forming tool.
Next, the barrier material and the seat cover member are drawn down into conformity with the style lines of the forming tool by the application of negative pressure across a series of vacuum ports located in the upper surface of the forming tool.
Thus, atmospheric pressure is allowed to compress the seat 2~3~g cover member into substantial conformity with the upper surface of the forming tool.
Once the seat cover member is conforming to the upper surface of the forming tool, the vacuum pressure is released. The barrier material is then removed while the seat cover member is maintained in conformity with the upper surface of the forming tool by frictional forces. A visual inspection for discontinuities in the seat cover member can now be conducted.
A foam seat bun, coated with a suitable adhesive such as polyurethane adhesive, is then compressed against and bonded to the seat cover member on the forming tool. Once the cover member is bonded to the foam seat bun, the assembly is removed from the forming tool for completing the construction of the seat assembly.
The above described method can easily be adapted for use with various types and styles of ~orming tools, including those having the changeable inserts. The above method can also be adapted ~or use with the various styles of foam seat buns, premolded or the generic type having stylized composite inserts. Additionally, the method can be easily adapted to construct seat backs.
~V3~
Thus, the method for forming a portion of a vehicle seat assembly according to the present invention may be summarized as including the following steps:
a. placing a seat cover member ~xterior side down on a forming tool having an upper surface complimentary to the desired surface contour of the finished seat assembly;
b. combining a layer of barrier material with the seat cover member on the forming tool;
c. drawing a vacuum between the ~orming tool and the barrier material;
d. drawing the seat cover member and the barrier material into substantial conformity with the upper surface of the forming tool;
e. applying an adhesive to the appropriate surface of a foam seat bun;
f. releasing the vacuum between the forming tool and the barrier material;
g. removing the barrier material from the seat cover member and forming tool;
h. inspecting the seat cover member visually for wrinkles and other discontinuities;
i. pressing the adhesive laden surface of the foam seat bun against the seat cover member on the forming tool; and 2~3~
j. removing the foam seat bun and bonded seat cover member from the forming tool, thus forming a portion of a vehicle seat assembly having the desired styled surface contour.
Further objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become evident from a consideration o~ the detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawing and the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINt;S
Fig. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the structure for forming a portion of a vehicle seat assembly in accordance with the method of the present invention.
Fig. 2 is a transverse sectional view showing the relative movements of the structure in Fig. 1.
Fig~ 3 is a transverse sectional view of the structure shown in Fig. 1 with the barrier material and the seat cover member being vacuum drawn into conformity with the upper surface of the forming tool whils a surface of the foam seat bun is beiny àpplied with adh~sive.
Fig. 4 is an enlarged sectional view of a por~ion of the structure shown in Fig. 3 with the barrier material and seat cover member vacuum drawn into conformity with the upper surface of the forming tool.
- 2~336~
Fig. 5 is an enlarged sectional view of Fig. 4 with the barrier material removed.
Fig. 6 is a transverse sectional view of the structure shown in Fig. l with the foam seat bun being compressed against the seat cover member.
Fig. 7 is an enlarged sectional view of a portion of the structure shown in Fig. 6.
Fig. 8 is a perspective view of a vehicle seat cushion assembled in accordance with the method of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Referring now to the drawings, Fig. 1 shows one embodiment of a structure 10 for the forming a vehicle seat cushion in accordance with the principles of the present invention. The structure lO consists of two opposingly hinged arms extending upward from opposite ends of a base 12. One arm 14 (hereinafter "barrier arm") consists of a frame like enclosure 16 for holding a plyable sheet of air impermeable barrier material 18, such as latex or polyolefin film. The second arm 20 ~hereinafter "cushion arm") consists of a frame like structure 22 for halding a foam seat bun 24 or cushion.
The seat bun 24 can be constructed of various materials, including thermoplastic foam, and has a surface of predetermined shape 25 corresponding to the desired final cushion surface contour.
- 2~3~
Centrally disposed on the base 12 of the structure 10 is a seat cover member forming tool 26. The forming tool 26 has an upper surface 2~ of a shape complementary to the surface of predetermined shape 25 of the seat bun 24. The upper surface 28 of the forming tool 26 also contains a series of intermittently positioned vacuum ports 30.
The present invention can be easily adapted to the various types of forming tools currently employed in the industry. These include both forming tools having a single surface style and forming tools capable of employing various style inserts.
Barrier arm 14 and cushion arm 20 can be lowered and raised to allow their respectively held components to engage and disengage the upper surface 28 of the forming tool 26.
This can be accomplished throuyh the use; of several different means. One such means is the use of hydraulic or pneumatic pumps 34 as shown in Fig. 1. One might also use a reversible motor and gearing mechanism.
A seat cover member 40 is then positioned inside out over the upper surface 28 of the forming tool 26. The seat cover member 40 is a gensrally porous material having an exterior surface o~ color and texture calculated to visually enhance the interior of a vehicle.
Once the seat cover member 40 is properly positioned over the upper surface 28 of the forming tool 26, the barrier arm 14 lowers the barrier material 18 from position A to position B as shown in Fiyure 2. The barrier material 18 is _g_ 2~3~8 lowered so as to create an air tight seal along style lines 32 of the forming tool ~6. Positioned as such, the seat cover member 40 is sandwiched between the style lines 32 of the upper surface 28 of the forming tool 26 and the barrier material 18. In order to facilitate the lowering of the barrier arm 14, the cushion arm 20 swings outward from position C to position D.
With the barrier material 18 forming an air tight seal along the style lines 32 o~ the upper surface 28 of the forming tool 26, a vacuum pump (not shown) draws a vacuum across a series of vacuum ports 30. Atmospheric pressure then causes the barrier material 18 and the seat cover member 40 to be drawn into substantially surface to surface conformity with the upper surface 28 of the forming tool 26, as shown in Figs. 3 and 4.
The` surface of predetermined .shape 25 of the seat bun 2~ is then sprayed with an adhesive 42, such as polyurethane adhesive. The vacuum pump then releases the vacuum pressure and the barrier arm 1~ raises the barrier material 18 out of substantial conformity with the seat cover member 40 and the upper surface 28 of the forming tool 26.
With the barrier material 18 removed, the seat cover member 40 remains in substantially surface to surface conformity with the upper surface 28 of the forming tool 26 as seen in Fig. 5. To ensure this substantial conformity between the upper surface 28 of the forming tool 26 and the seat cover member 40, a visual inspection of the seat cover member 40 is --10~
2~3~g8 made for wrinkles and other discontinuities. This inspection might be performed manually or by automated scanning machines.
Once visual inspection of the seat cover member 18 proves satisfactory, ~he cushion arm 20 is lowered from position D to position E. The adhesive laden surfacP of predetermined shape 25 is then compressed against the seat cover member 40 until the adhesive bonds the seat cover member 40 to the surface of predetermined shape 25 of the seat bun 24. This is shown in Figs. 6 and 7.
Once bonded, the seat bun 24 and seat cover member 40 are removed from both the forming tool 26 and the cushion arm 20 to allow assembly of the cushion into its final form 50.
Thus, the method in accordance with the present invention may be summarized as placing a porous seat cover member 40 inside out over a foxming tool 26 having an upper surface 28 shaped complementary to a surface of predetermined shape 25 of a seat bun 2~, positioning a sheet of barrier material 18 over the seat cover member 40 on the forming tool 26, applyiny a vacuum between the barrier material 18 and the forming tool 26 so as to draw both the barrier material 18 and the seat cover member 40 into substantially surface to surface contact and conformity with the upper surface 28 of the forming tool 26, applying an adhesive 42 to the surface of predetermined shape 25 of the seat bun 24, removing the barrier material 18 while retaining the seat cover member 40 in substantially surface to surface conformity with the upper 2~3~08~
surface 28 of the forming tool 26, compressing the adhesively coated surface of predetermined shape 25 of the seat bun 24 against the seat cover member 40, allowing the seat cover member 40 to bond to the surface o~ predetermine shape 25 of the seat bun 24, and finally removing the bonded seat cover member 40 and seat bun 24 from the forming tool 26 and cushion arm 20 in order to finish assembly of the seat cushion into final form 50.
In an alternative embodiment, a second vacuum is applied directly over the seat bun 24 once the seat bun 24 has been compressed against the cover member 40. Here, the surface of cushion arm 20 holding the seat hun 24 is provided with an impermeable bladder or similar material and a second vacuum is drawn by the vacuum pump across the vacuum ports 30.
In so doing, the second vacuum provides for increased definition, improved bonding and accelerated bonding and production time.
Depending on the particlllar characteristics of the foam seat bun 24, vacuum leakage may occur through the side bolsters of the seat bun 24. If the leakage proves to be excessive, the cushion carrier 20 may be modified so as to contact the ~orming tool 26 over the seat bun 24 and thus provide a full vacuum seal.
The method according to the present invention allows for a decrease in tooling costs, a decrease in wrinkling and therefore scraping rate, an increase in breathability, and an increase in the variation and elaboration of styling permitted -12~
2 ~
in seat cushions. The outer edges of the seat trim material may be sewn together or sewn to halves of a zipper so as to complete the assembly of the seat cushion into it -final form 50. A vehicle seat back may also be formed in a manner similar to that disclosed above for the vehicle seat cushion.
While the above description constitutes the preferred embodiments of the present invention, it will be appreciated that the invention is susceptible to modification, variation and change without departing from the proper scope and fair meaning of the accompanying claims.
Forming tools having removable style inserts, which permit the simple modification or changing of the insert instead of the complete replacement of the tool, are described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 310,351, filed February 14, 1989, and assigned to the assignee of this application.
These forming tools allow for the easy interchanging of styles and thus, a reduction in overall tooling costs.
During assembly of a vehicle seat, the seat cover member is placed over the forming tool and drawn in~o substantial conformity with the style lines or contours of the insert. The drawing of the material is accomplished either by press forming with an appropriately shaped pressing tool or by a vacuum forming process. A ~oam seat bun is then adhered to the seat cover member with a suitable adhesive.
In order to properly form the desired seat surface, the seat bun must have a predetermined shape corresponding to the style insert used to form the contours in the seat cover member. Thus, different seat buns are required for each - ~3~
different contour style desixed in a ~inished vehicle seat surface.
U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 345,7~9, filed May 1, 1989, also assigned to the assignee of this application, discloses a method for eliminating the requirement of seat buns having a predetermined shape in order to more economically fabricate the finished vehicle seat assembly. The method disclosed in the proceeding patent application first constructs a composite layer by laminating a breathable seat cover member to a polymeric foam sheet. This composite is then cut into a shape appropriate for the style insert being used~ A seat skirt fabric is then sewn to the edges of the cover member of the composite. The composite portion is then positioned with the cover member down against the style insert of the forming tool. Next, a sheet of impermeable barrier material is placed over the foam surface of the composite. A vacuum then draws the composite into substantial conformity with the style insert. ~ flat upper surface of a generic foam seat bun is then sprayed with a suitable adhesive and pressed against the drawn composite.
Finally, heat, which can be in the form of steam, is forced through the composite to partially evaporate the barrier. The foam surface of the composite is thus enabled to bond to the foam seat bun.
A problem incuxred by the proceeding and other prior art is breathability. Incorporation of the barrier material into the seat construction, as done in vacuum forming, -- 2~3~g8 initiates the problem. In some situations the seat is completely non-breathable. This arises when the entire layer of impermeable barrier material remains an element of the seat construction. In other situations the finished seat is semi-breathable. U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 345,789, where the barrier material is partially evaporated, displays this limitation.
It is an object of the present invention to eliminate breathability problems while continuing to employ a vacuum forming process. It is another object of the invention to eliminate forming process errors and the various problems associated with elaborate seat designs. In so doing, machinery bulk and tooling costs will also be reduced.
The method according to the present invention first places a seat cover member, exterior side down, over a forming tool. The ~orming tool can be any of those presently used in the industry which employ vacuum forming.
After the seat cover member is properly positioned, a thin sheet of clear barrier material, such as latex or polyolefin film, is presented over the seat cover member. The barrier material will form an air impermeable layer over the seat cover member and the upper sur~ace of the forming tool.
Next, the barrier material and the seat cover member are drawn down into conformity with the style lines of the forming tool by the application of negative pressure across a series of vacuum ports located in the upper surface of the forming tool.
Thus, atmospheric pressure is allowed to compress the seat 2~3~g cover member into substantial conformity with the upper surface of the forming tool.
Once the seat cover member is conforming to the upper surface of the forming tool, the vacuum pressure is released. The barrier material is then removed while the seat cover member is maintained in conformity with the upper surface of the forming tool by frictional forces. A visual inspection for discontinuities in the seat cover member can now be conducted.
A foam seat bun, coated with a suitable adhesive such as polyurethane adhesive, is then compressed against and bonded to the seat cover member on the forming tool. Once the cover member is bonded to the foam seat bun, the assembly is removed from the forming tool for completing the construction of the seat assembly.
The above described method can easily be adapted for use with various types and styles of ~orming tools, including those having the changeable inserts. The above method can also be adapted ~or use with the various styles of foam seat buns, premolded or the generic type having stylized composite inserts. Additionally, the method can be easily adapted to construct seat backs.
~V3~
Thus, the method for forming a portion of a vehicle seat assembly according to the present invention may be summarized as including the following steps:
a. placing a seat cover member ~xterior side down on a forming tool having an upper surface complimentary to the desired surface contour of the finished seat assembly;
b. combining a layer of barrier material with the seat cover member on the forming tool;
c. drawing a vacuum between the ~orming tool and the barrier material;
d. drawing the seat cover member and the barrier material into substantial conformity with the upper surface of the forming tool;
e. applying an adhesive to the appropriate surface of a foam seat bun;
f. releasing the vacuum between the forming tool and the barrier material;
g. removing the barrier material from the seat cover member and forming tool;
h. inspecting the seat cover member visually for wrinkles and other discontinuities;
i. pressing the adhesive laden surface of the foam seat bun against the seat cover member on the forming tool; and 2~3~
j. removing the foam seat bun and bonded seat cover member from the forming tool, thus forming a portion of a vehicle seat assembly having the desired styled surface contour.
Further objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become evident from a consideration o~ the detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawing and the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINt;S
Fig. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the structure for forming a portion of a vehicle seat assembly in accordance with the method of the present invention.
Fig. 2 is a transverse sectional view showing the relative movements of the structure in Fig. 1.
Fig~ 3 is a transverse sectional view of the structure shown in Fig. 1 with the barrier material and the seat cover member being vacuum drawn into conformity with the upper surface of the forming tool whils a surface of the foam seat bun is beiny àpplied with adh~sive.
Fig. 4 is an enlarged sectional view of a por~ion of the structure shown in Fig. 3 with the barrier material and seat cover member vacuum drawn into conformity with the upper surface of the forming tool.
- 2~336~
Fig. 5 is an enlarged sectional view of Fig. 4 with the barrier material removed.
Fig. 6 is a transverse sectional view of the structure shown in Fig. l with the foam seat bun being compressed against the seat cover member.
Fig. 7 is an enlarged sectional view of a portion of the structure shown in Fig. 6.
Fig. 8 is a perspective view of a vehicle seat cushion assembled in accordance with the method of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Referring now to the drawings, Fig. 1 shows one embodiment of a structure 10 for the forming a vehicle seat cushion in accordance with the principles of the present invention. The structure lO consists of two opposingly hinged arms extending upward from opposite ends of a base 12. One arm 14 (hereinafter "barrier arm") consists of a frame like enclosure 16 for holding a plyable sheet of air impermeable barrier material 18, such as latex or polyolefin film. The second arm 20 ~hereinafter "cushion arm") consists of a frame like structure 22 for halding a foam seat bun 24 or cushion.
The seat bun 24 can be constructed of various materials, including thermoplastic foam, and has a surface of predetermined shape 25 corresponding to the desired final cushion surface contour.
- 2~3~
Centrally disposed on the base 12 of the structure 10 is a seat cover member forming tool 26. The forming tool 26 has an upper surface 2~ of a shape complementary to the surface of predetermined shape 25 of the seat bun 24. The upper surface 28 of the forming tool 26 also contains a series of intermittently positioned vacuum ports 30.
The present invention can be easily adapted to the various types of forming tools currently employed in the industry. These include both forming tools having a single surface style and forming tools capable of employing various style inserts.
Barrier arm 14 and cushion arm 20 can be lowered and raised to allow their respectively held components to engage and disengage the upper surface 28 of the forming tool 26.
This can be accomplished throuyh the use; of several different means. One such means is the use of hydraulic or pneumatic pumps 34 as shown in Fig. 1. One might also use a reversible motor and gearing mechanism.
A seat cover member 40 is then positioned inside out over the upper surface 28 of the forming tool 26. The seat cover member 40 is a gensrally porous material having an exterior surface o~ color and texture calculated to visually enhance the interior of a vehicle.
Once the seat cover member 40 is properly positioned over the upper surface 28 of the forming tool 26, the barrier arm 14 lowers the barrier material 18 from position A to position B as shown in Fiyure 2. The barrier material 18 is _g_ 2~3~8 lowered so as to create an air tight seal along style lines 32 of the forming tool ~6. Positioned as such, the seat cover member 40 is sandwiched between the style lines 32 of the upper surface 28 of the forming tool 26 and the barrier material 18. In order to facilitate the lowering of the barrier arm 14, the cushion arm 20 swings outward from position C to position D.
With the barrier material 18 forming an air tight seal along the style lines 32 o~ the upper surface 28 of the forming tool 26, a vacuum pump (not shown) draws a vacuum across a series of vacuum ports 30. Atmospheric pressure then causes the barrier material 18 and the seat cover member 40 to be drawn into substantially surface to surface conformity with the upper surface 28 of the forming tool 26, as shown in Figs. 3 and 4.
The` surface of predetermined .shape 25 of the seat bun 2~ is then sprayed with an adhesive 42, such as polyurethane adhesive. The vacuum pump then releases the vacuum pressure and the barrier arm 1~ raises the barrier material 18 out of substantial conformity with the seat cover member 40 and the upper surface 28 of the forming tool 26.
With the barrier material 18 removed, the seat cover member 40 remains in substantially surface to surface conformity with the upper surface 28 of the forming tool 26 as seen in Fig. 5. To ensure this substantial conformity between the upper surface 28 of the forming tool 26 and the seat cover member 40, a visual inspection of the seat cover member 40 is --10~
2~3~g8 made for wrinkles and other discontinuities. This inspection might be performed manually or by automated scanning machines.
Once visual inspection of the seat cover member 18 proves satisfactory, ~he cushion arm 20 is lowered from position D to position E. The adhesive laden surfacP of predetermined shape 25 is then compressed against the seat cover member 40 until the adhesive bonds the seat cover member 40 to the surface of predetermined shape 25 of the seat bun 24. This is shown in Figs. 6 and 7.
Once bonded, the seat bun 24 and seat cover member 40 are removed from both the forming tool 26 and the cushion arm 20 to allow assembly of the cushion into its final form 50.
Thus, the method in accordance with the present invention may be summarized as placing a porous seat cover member 40 inside out over a foxming tool 26 having an upper surface 28 shaped complementary to a surface of predetermined shape 25 of a seat bun 2~, positioning a sheet of barrier material 18 over the seat cover member 40 on the forming tool 26, applyiny a vacuum between the barrier material 18 and the forming tool 26 so as to draw both the barrier material 18 and the seat cover member 40 into substantially surface to surface contact and conformity with the upper surface 28 of the forming tool 26, applying an adhesive 42 to the surface of predetermined shape 25 of the seat bun 24, removing the barrier material 18 while retaining the seat cover member 40 in substantially surface to surface conformity with the upper 2~3~08~
surface 28 of the forming tool 26, compressing the adhesively coated surface of predetermined shape 25 of the seat bun 24 against the seat cover member 40, allowing the seat cover member 40 to bond to the surface o~ predetermine shape 25 of the seat bun 24, and finally removing the bonded seat cover member 40 and seat bun 24 from the forming tool 26 and cushion arm 20 in order to finish assembly of the seat cushion into final form 50.
In an alternative embodiment, a second vacuum is applied directly over the seat bun 24 once the seat bun 24 has been compressed against the cover member 40. Here, the surface of cushion arm 20 holding the seat hun 24 is provided with an impermeable bladder or similar material and a second vacuum is drawn by the vacuum pump across the vacuum ports 30.
In so doing, the second vacuum provides for increased definition, improved bonding and accelerated bonding and production time.
Depending on the particlllar characteristics of the foam seat bun 24, vacuum leakage may occur through the side bolsters of the seat bun 24. If the leakage proves to be excessive, the cushion carrier 20 may be modified so as to contact the ~orming tool 26 over the seat bun 24 and thus provide a full vacuum seal.
The method according to the present invention allows for a decrease in tooling costs, a decrease in wrinkling and therefore scraping rate, an increase in breathability, and an increase in the variation and elaboration of styling permitted -12~
2 ~
in seat cushions. The outer edges of the seat trim material may be sewn together or sewn to halves of a zipper so as to complete the assembly of the seat cushion into it -final form 50. A vehicle seat back may also be formed in a manner similar to that disclosed above for the vehicle seat cushion.
While the above description constitutes the preferred embodiments of the present invention, it will be appreciated that the invention is susceptible to modification, variation and change without departing from the proper scope and fair meaning of the accompanying claims.
Claims (10)
1. A method for forming a portion of a vehicle seat assembly with a surface of predetermined shape, said method comprising the steps of:
a. positioning à permeable cover member on a forming tool having an upper surface shaped complementary to said surface of predetermined shape;
b. placing a sheet of impermeable barrier material over said cover member on said forming tool;
c. applying a vacuum between said barrier material and said forming tool and drawing said barrier material and said cover member against and into substantially surface to surface contact with said upper surface of said forming tool;
d. removing said barrier material from substantially surface to surface contact with said cover member and said upper surface of said forming tool; and e. pressing an adhesive laden surface of predetermined shape of a seat bun against said cover member on said forming tool and thus bonding said seat bun and said cover member together.
a. positioning à permeable cover member on a forming tool having an upper surface shaped complementary to said surface of predetermined shape;
b. placing a sheet of impermeable barrier material over said cover member on said forming tool;
c. applying a vacuum between said barrier material and said forming tool and drawing said barrier material and said cover member against and into substantially surface to surface contact with said upper surface of said forming tool;
d. removing said barrier material from substantially surface to surface contact with said cover member and said upper surface of said forming tool; and e. pressing an adhesive laden surface of predetermined shape of a seat bun against said cover member on said forming tool and thus bonding said seat bun and said cover member together.
2. A method of forming a vehicle seat with a surface of predetermined shape, said method comprising the steps of;
a. placing a porus cover material exterior side down over an upper surface of a forming tool being of complementary shape to said surface of predetermined shape;
b. positioning an air impermeable barrier material over said cover material on said forming tool;
c. applying a vacuum between said forming tool and said barrier material, d. drawing said barrier material and said cover material substantially against and into surface to surface conformity with said upper surface of said forming tool;
e. applying adhesive to said surface of predetermined shape of a thermoplastic foam seat bun:
f. removing said barrier material from substantially surface to surface conformity with said cover material and said upper surface of said forming tool;
g. inspecting said cover material visually for discontinuities in said substantially surface to surface conformity with said upper surface of said forming tool;
h. pressing said adhesively coated surface of said seat bun against said cover material on said forming tool and allowing said surface of said seat bun to bond with said cover material; and i. removing said seat bun and bonded cover material from said forming tool.
a. placing a porus cover material exterior side down over an upper surface of a forming tool being of complementary shape to said surface of predetermined shape;
b. positioning an air impermeable barrier material over said cover material on said forming tool;
c. applying a vacuum between said forming tool and said barrier material, d. drawing said barrier material and said cover material substantially against and into surface to surface conformity with said upper surface of said forming tool;
e. applying adhesive to said surface of predetermined shape of a thermoplastic foam seat bun:
f. removing said barrier material from substantially surface to surface conformity with said cover material and said upper surface of said forming tool;
g. inspecting said cover material visually for discontinuities in said substantially surface to surface conformity with said upper surface of said forming tool;
h. pressing said adhesively coated surface of said seat bun against said cover material on said forming tool and allowing said surface of said seat bun to bond with said cover material; and i. removing said seat bun and bonded cover material from said forming tool.
3. The method according to Claim 2 wherein a second impermeable barrier material is provided over said seat bun when said seat bun is pressed against said cover material and a second vacuum is applied between said forming tool and said second impermeable barrier material while allowing said surface of said seat bun to bond with said cover material.
4. The method according to Claim 2 wherein said air impermeable barrier material is latex.
5. The method according to Claim 2 wherein said air impermeable barrier material is polyolefin film.
6. In a method of forming a vehicle seat with predetermined contours, the steps of:
a. providing a means for forming a vehicle seat including a base, a forming tool disposed centrally on said base, said forming tool having an upper surface of complementary shape to said predetermined contours, said upper surface also having vacuum ports, said vacuum ports being connected to a vacuum pump, said base also having opposingly hinged arms positioned on opposite ends thereof, a means for alternatingly lowering and raising each of said arms from a substantially vertical position to a substantially horizontal position, one of said arms providing a sheet of air impermeable latex, said other arm providing a thermoplastic foam seat bun having a surface with predetermined contours;
b. positioning a seat cover member inside out on said forming tool;
c. placing said latex over said seat cover member on said forming tool;
d. creating a vacuum between said upper surface of said forming tool and said latex;
e. drawing said seat cover member and said latex down into substantially surface to surface contact with said upper surface of said forming tool;
f. applying adhesive to said surface with predetermined contours of said thermoplastic foam seat bun;
g. releasing said vacuum between said latex and said upper surface of said forming tool;
h. removing said latex while retaining said seat cover member in substantially surface to surface contact with said upper surface of said forming tool;
i. inspecting said seat cover member for discontinuities in said substantially surface to surface contact with said upper surface of said forming tool;
j. compressing said adhesive coated surface with predetermined contours of said thermoplastic foam seat bun against said seat cover member in substantially surface to surface contact with said upper surface of said forming tool;
k. allowing said thermoplastic foam seat bun and said seat cover member to bond together; and l. removing said thermoplastic foam seat bun and bonded seat cover member from said forming tool.
a. providing a means for forming a vehicle seat including a base, a forming tool disposed centrally on said base, said forming tool having an upper surface of complementary shape to said predetermined contours, said upper surface also having vacuum ports, said vacuum ports being connected to a vacuum pump, said base also having opposingly hinged arms positioned on opposite ends thereof, a means for alternatingly lowering and raising each of said arms from a substantially vertical position to a substantially horizontal position, one of said arms providing a sheet of air impermeable latex, said other arm providing a thermoplastic foam seat bun having a surface with predetermined contours;
b. positioning a seat cover member inside out on said forming tool;
c. placing said latex over said seat cover member on said forming tool;
d. creating a vacuum between said upper surface of said forming tool and said latex;
e. drawing said seat cover member and said latex down into substantially surface to surface contact with said upper surface of said forming tool;
f. applying adhesive to said surface with predetermined contours of said thermoplastic foam seat bun;
g. releasing said vacuum between said latex and said upper surface of said forming tool;
h. removing said latex while retaining said seat cover member in substantially surface to surface contact with said upper surface of said forming tool;
i. inspecting said seat cover member for discontinuities in said substantially surface to surface contact with said upper surface of said forming tool;
j. compressing said adhesive coated surface with predetermined contours of said thermoplastic foam seat bun against said seat cover member in substantially surface to surface contact with said upper surface of said forming tool;
k. allowing said thermoplastic foam seat bun and said seat cover member to bond together; and l. removing said thermoplastic foam seat bun and bonded seat cover member from said forming tool.
7. The method according to Claim 6 further including the step of applying a vacuum between said upper surface of said forming tool and said arm providing and compressing said thermoplastic foam seat bun against said seat cover member.
8. The method according to Claim 6 wherein said inspection is performed manually.
9. The method according to Claim 6 wherein said inspection is performed robotically.
10. The method according to Claim 6 wherein said discontinuities constitute furrows and ridges in said seat cover member.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US07/480,837 US5238513A (en) | 1990-02-16 | 1990-02-16 | Method of forming a vehicle seat with a removable vacuum seal |
| US480,837 | 1990-02-16 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2036088A1 true CA2036088A1 (en) | 1991-08-17 |
Family
ID=23909551
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002036088A Abandoned CA2036088A1 (en) | 1990-02-16 | 1991-02-11 | Method of forming a vehicle seat with a removable vacuum seal |
Country Status (4)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US5238513A (en) |
| EP (1) | EP0442691A1 (en) |
| JP (1) | JPH0596655A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2036088A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN109968791A (en) * | 2019-04-24 | 2019-07-05 | 重庆延锋安道拓汽车部件系统有限公司 | Composite cushion rapid molding device and forming method |
Families Citing this family (15)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US5336352A (en) * | 1993-04-23 | 1994-08-09 | Tachi-S Co., Ltd. | Method for forming a trim cover assembly for automotive seat |
| US5562873A (en) * | 1994-08-15 | 1996-10-08 | Matrex Furniture Components, Inc. | Method for forming a cushion |
| FR2731380B1 (en) * | 1995-03-06 | 1997-04-18 | Roth Sa Freres | SOLIDARIZATION PROCESS BY ADHESIVING A HAIRDRESSING ON A SHAPED MATTRESS, IN PARTICULAR POLYURETHANE FOAM |
| FR2731379A1 (en) * | 1995-03-06 | 1996-09-13 | Roth Sa Freres | Attaching cover to shaped padding, esp. for prodn. of seat cushions |
| US5743996A (en) * | 1996-08-27 | 1998-04-28 | Tachi-S Co., Ltd. | Structure of bonding die for forming a seat |
| US6004418A (en) * | 1997-10-28 | 1999-12-21 | Lear Corporation | Method of joining a cover material to a substrate utilizing electrically conductive bonding |
| US6073996A (en) * | 1997-12-31 | 2000-06-13 | Tachi-S Co., Ltd. | Structure of seat back with armrest and method for forming the same |
| US6083337A (en) * | 1998-06-16 | 2000-07-04 | Lear Corporation | Method and apparatus for bonding a trim cover to a foam pad along a conveyor assembly line |
| US6345865B1 (en) * | 1998-12-28 | 2002-02-12 | T.S. Tech Co., Ltd. | Vehicle seat, a skin material for a vehicle seat and a method of manufacturing the vehicle seat |
| US6994812B1 (en) * | 1999-10-12 | 2006-02-07 | Intier Automotive Inc. | Mold tool and method for forming a trim covered foam substrate of a seat assembly |
| US20030121103A1 (en) * | 2000-02-04 | 2003-07-03 | Wempe Patrick L. | Method for forming a molded cushion |
| US7320737B2 (en) * | 2003-10-31 | 2008-01-22 | Tiger Sales, Inc. | Cushion forming apparatus and method of use |
| US20060254692A1 (en) | 2005-04-29 | 2006-11-16 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Method for assembling articles |
| JP5604242B2 (en) * | 2010-09-24 | 2014-10-08 | 株式会社ブリヂストン | Seat pad and manufacturing method thereof |
| DE102015008161A1 (en) * | 2015-01-22 | 2016-07-28 | Liebherr-Hausgeräte Lienz Gmbh | Method for applying a film to a body |
Family Cites Families (6)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US2814077A (en) * | 1954-01-12 | 1957-11-26 | British Celanese | Method of embossing thermoplastic fabrics |
| US4052241A (en) * | 1975-11-13 | 1977-10-04 | Detroit Gasket And Manufacturing Company | Method of forming a contoured laminate |
| US4692199A (en) * | 1985-12-13 | 1987-09-08 | Lear Siegler, Inc. | Method and apparatus for bonding fabric to a foam pad |
| AU589504B2 (en) * | 1987-03-25 | 1989-10-12 | Tachi-S Co., Ltd. | Apparatus for manufacturing a seat |
| AU604790B2 (en) * | 1987-12-09 | 1991-01-03 | Tachi-S Co., Ltd. | Method of manufacturing automotive seat |
| US4975135A (en) * | 1989-05-01 | 1990-12-04 | Hoover Universal, Inc. | Method of forming a vehicle seat with a stylized seating surface |
-
1990
- 1990-02-16 US US07/480,837 patent/US5238513A/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
1991
- 1991-02-11 CA CA002036088A patent/CA2036088A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 1991-02-12 EP EP91301098A patent/EP0442691A1/en not_active Ceased
- 1991-02-15 JP JP3106950A patent/JPH0596655A/en active Pending
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN109968791A (en) * | 2019-04-24 | 2019-07-05 | 重庆延锋安道拓汽车部件系统有限公司 | Composite cushion rapid molding device and forming method |
| CN109968791B (en) * | 2019-04-24 | 2023-10-17 | 安道拓(重庆)汽车部件有限公司 | Rapid forming device and forming method for composite cushion |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| US5238513A (en) | 1993-08-24 |
| EP0442691A1 (en) | 1991-08-21 |
| JPH0596655A (en) | 1993-04-20 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Discontinued |