Patent ID: 6432240
Filing Date: 2002-08-13
Classification: B29C,B32B

Abstract:
A process for laminating a pre-form, wherein said pre-form includes at least first and second solid panes superposed with respect to each other and having a layer of adhesive in between such that said pre-form is to be subjected to both pressure differences and heat differences, to form a laminated glazing assembly, said process comprising the steps of:subjecting said pre-form to an overall vacuum by lowering an ambient pressure; conveying said pre-form under said overall vacuum to a vacuum region maintained at said overall vacuum, while maintaining said overall vacuum in said vacuum region; heating said pre-form in said vacuum region to a predetermined temperature necessary to adhesively bond said at least first solid pane to said layer of adhesive, while maintaining said overall vacuum in said vacuum region; pressing said pre-form in said vacuum region at said predetermined temperature using flexible pressing pieces to form said laminated glazing assembly, while maintaining said overall vacuum in said vacuum region; conveying said pre-form from said vacuum region to a venting region, while maintaining said overall vacuum in said vacuum region; and increasing said ambient pressure in said venting region to atmospheric pressure and thereby venting said laminated glazing assembly, while maintaining said overall vacuum in said vacuum region.