Patent ID: 6248279
Filing Date: 2001-06-19
Classification: B29C

Abstract:
A method for encapsulating a ring-shaped member, comprising the steps of:positioning a mandrel within an opening of the ring-shaped member and forming a peripheral first inner void between the mandrel and at least a portion of a peripheral inner surface of the ring-shaped member;positioning a sleeve over the mandrel and near the ring-shaped member to form a boundary of the first inner void, wherein a peripheral edge of the sleeve has an undercut which forms a curved surface at the boundary of the first inner void;filling the first inner void with a first fill of a thermoplastic material;moving the mandrel with respect to the ring-shaped member and forming a peripheral second inner void between the mandrel and a second portion of the peripheral inner surface of the ring-shaped member; andfilling the second inner void with a second fill of the thermoplastic material.