Patent ID: 6086813
Filing Date: 2000-07-11
Classification: B29C,B29K,Y10S

Abstract:
A method for making self supporting thermoplastic structure, comprising:providing a form defining a shape for said structure;providing a thermoplastic material in a granulated form;creating a stream of gas flowing through a first conduit, said stream creating step being accomplished by a compressor;injecting said thermoplastic material into said stream of gas;heating said thermoplastic material as it moves with said stream of gas, said heating step comprising passing said thermoplastic material and said stream of gas through a plasma zone;directing a spray of said thermoplastic material, after said heating step, against a surface of said form, said directing step comprises the step of directing said spray of said thermoplastic material through at least one nozzle;allowing said thermoplastic material to cure while in contact with said surface of said form;removing said self supporting structure from said form;providing a plurality of reinforcing fibers; andinjecting said plurality of reinforcing fibers into said stream of gas before said heating step.