Patent ID: 6740281
Filing Date: 2004-05-25
Classification: B01F,B29C

Abstract:
A process for producing an integral multi-stage three-dimensional article having an axial direction and an/unconstrained length in said axial direction and having interstitials therein, said process comprising the steps ofproviding at least two complementary mold segments, said mold segments being juxtaposable to circumscribe an enclosed cavity, said cavity having an axial direction and a lateral direction perpendicular thereto, each said mold segment comprising a wall and having a plurality of members extending from a proximal end juxtaposed with said wall into said cavity, said members defining an angle relative to said axial direction; juxtaposing said mold segments to enclose a cavity therebetween, wherein each said member extending into said cavity has a distal end, said distal end being offset from proximal-end in the axial direction said distal end contacting said wall of a diametrically opposed mold segment and/or another member; disposing a flowable, solidifiable material in said cavity; allowing said material to solidify; and separating each said mold segment from said solidified material, said separation occurring in a separation direction parallel to said protruding members of that mold segment.