Patent Description:
Molded elastomers are used in a variety of applications including, but not limited to, gaskets, handles, non-slip feet, and caps or lids for containers. To form some molded elastomeric articles, an elastomer may be placed into a mold to form an article entirely out of the elastomer. Molded elastomeric articles formed entirely out of an elastomer can lack rigidity, deform, and/or elongate when under tension or compression.

Some molded elastomeric articles include an internal frame or structure that can provide additional rigidity to the molded elastomeric article. To form molded elastomeric articles, the internal frame or structure can be formed, inserted within a mold, and then overmolded with an elastomer. Generally, after the internal frame or structure is formed and before it is overmolded with the elastomer, the internal frame or structure is surface treated to enhance adhesion of the elastomer to the internal frame or structure. In some instances, the elastomer can peel from the frame when compressed or under tension. This peeling may occur after a single load cycle and may increase over subsequent load cycles. <CIT> relates to a clamp for an Erlenmeyer flask or other laboratory containers or racks uses nickel-coated, rare earth magnets to secure the clamp to a platform for a laboratory shaker. The base of the clamp has downwardly extending positioning bosses that seat in holes or indentations on the shaker platform to prevent horizontal sliding of the clamp when the shaker is in use. A removable and replaceable, elastomeric cover for the base of the flask clamp provides cushioning and prevents spinning of the flask when the shaker is in use.

There is a continuing need for composite articles with enhanced rigidity and/or increased toughness. In addition, when a composite article includes an overmolded frame, there is a continuing need for composite articles with improved peel resistance. Further, there is always a need for reducing manufacturing steps and/or reducing manufacturing costs of composite articles. The subject-matter of the present invention is defined by the features of the independent claims.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a composite article includes a lattice structure and an elastomeric section. The lattice structure is formed by additive manufacturing methods includes a plurality of members that form an open-mesh frame defining a plurality of voids between adjacent members of the frame. The elastomeric section is formed of an elastomer that is disposed at least partially about the lattice structure and within the voids of the lattice structure.

In some embodiments, the lattice structure is monolithically formed. The each void of the plurality of voids sized in a range of <NUM> to <NUM>. The elastomeric section may include a thermoset elastomer or a thermoplastic elastomer. The elastomeric section may include silicone or may include a block polymer of styrene-isobutylene-styrene or a thermoplastic polyurethane.

In embodiments which are not part of the present invention, the article forms a gasket and includes a body that is integrally formed with the lattice structure. The body may form a ring and the lattice structure may extend inward from an inner surface of the ring. The elastomeric section may include a flange that extends inward form the lattice structure. The elastomeric section may include a rib that has a thickness greater than the flange. The rib may be disposed between the flange and the body.

In some embodiments, the elastomeric section extends over the body. The body may be monolithically formed with the lattice structure. The body may include one or more grips that extend in a direction away from a surface thereof.

In certain embodiments, the article includes a base ring, a plurality of flask arms, and a leg. The base ring may be configured to support a lower portion of a flask. Each flask arm may be configured to extend from the base ring to secure the lower portion of the flask to the base ring. The leg may extend outward from the base ring and includes a body that is integrally formed with the lattice structure. The elastomeric section may form a foot of the leg and be configured to engage a surface to support the leg relative to the surface.

In particular embodiments which are not part of the present invention, the article is a circular gasket, a gasket with a grip, a rectangular gasket, a vessel cap, or a handle for a hand tool According to the invention, the article is a flask stand.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a composite article includes a lattice and an elastomeric section. The lattice includes a plurality of members that form an open-mesh frame defining a plurality of voids between adjacent members of the frame. The elastomeric section is formed of an elastomer disposed about the lattice and within the voids of the lattice.

In some embodiments, the lattice is monolithically formed. The lattice may be formed by additive manufacturing methods. Each void of the plurality of voids may be sized in a range of <NUM> to <NUM>. The elastomer of the elastomeric section may be disposed about the entire lattice structure. The elastomeric section may include a thermoset elastomer or a thermoplastic elastomer. The elastomeric section may include silicone or may include a block polymer of styrene-isobutylene-styrene or a thermoplastic polyurethane.

In embodiments which are not part of the present invention, the article forms a gasket and includes a body that is integrally formed with the lattice. The body may form a ring and the lattice may extend inward from an inner surface of the ring. The elastomeric section may include a flange that extends inward form the lattice. The elastomeric section may include a rib that has a thickness greater than the flange. The rib may be disposed between the flange and the body.

In some embodiments, the elastomeric section extends over the body. The body may be monolithically formed with the lattice. The body may include one or more grips that extend in a direction away from a surface thereof.

In certain embodiments, the article includes a base ring, a plurality of flask arms, and a leg. The base ring may be configured to support a lower portion of a flask. Each flask arm may be configured to extend from the base ring to secure the lower portion of the flask to the base ring. The leg may extend outward from the base ring and includes a body that is integrally formed with the lattice. The elastomeric section may form a foot of the leg and be configured to engage a surface to support the leg relative to the surface.

In particular embodiments which are not part of the present invention, the article is a circular gasket, a gasket with a grip, a rectangular gasket, a vessel cap, or a handle for a hand tool. According to the invention, the article is a flask stand.

In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of manufacturing a composite article includes positioning a lattice within a cavity of a mold and flowing an elastomer into the cavity of the mold with the elastomer flowing through voids of the lattice and about the lattice. The lattice includes a plurality of members that form an open-mesh frame and defines a plurality of voids between adjacent members of the frame. The method may include allowing the elastomer to solidify into its final shape within the voids and at least partially about the lattice.

In embodiments, the method includes additively manufacturing the lattice. The method may include three-dimensionally printing the lattice. Three-dimensionally printing the lattice may include the lattices comprising a cross-linked cyanate ester or a cross-linked polyurethane. Positioning the lattice within the cavity of the mold may include the plurality of voids sized in a range of <NUM> to <NUM>.

In some embodiments, flowing the elastomer into the cavity of the mold occurs without the lattice being surface treated. Flowing the elastomer into the cavity may form at least one of a circular gasket, a gasket with a grip, a rectangular gasket, a vessel cap, a portion of a flask stand, or a handle for a hand tool. Flowing the elastomer may include flowing a liquid elastomer such as a liquid silicone or a liquid perfluoropolyether.

In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a flask stand that is configured to support a flask includes a base ring and a plurality of legs. The base ring is configured to support a lower portion of the flask. Each leg is secured to the base ring and extends outward from the base ring. Each leg includes a body, a lattice, and an elastomeric foot. The body includes a first end portion that is secured to the base ring. The foot portion is opposite the first end portion. The lattice is formed within the foot portion and includes a plurality of members that form an open-mesh frame that defines a plurality of voids between adjacent members of the frame. The elastomeric foot is formed of an elastomer and is disposed about the lattice and within the voids of the lattice. The foot is configured to engage a surface to support the body relative to the surface.

In embodiments, the first end portion includes an attachment tab. The attachment tab is secured to the leg of the base ring. The plurality of legs may include four legs. The body and the lattice of each leg may be monolithically formed. Each void of the lattice may be sized in a range of <NUM> to <NUM>. The elastomeric section may include a thermoset elastomer or a thermoplastic elastomer.

In some embodiments, the flask stand includes a plurality of flask arms. Each flask arm may extend from the base ring and be configured to secure the lower portion of the flask to the base ring.

In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of manufacturing a flask stand including positing a plurality of legs each leg comprising a body and a lattice within a cavity of a mold with at least the lattice disposed within the mold. The lattice includes a plurality of members that form an open-mesh frame that defines a plurality of voids between the adjacent members of the frame. The method also includes flowing an elastomer into the cavity of the mold with the elastomer flowing through the voids of the lattice and about the lattice.

In embodiments, the method includes additively manufacturing the lattice or the body. The lattice and the body may be additively manufactured as a monolithic structure. The method may include three-dimensionally printing the body and the lattice. Three-dimensionally printing the lattice may include the lattice comprising a cross-linked cyanate ester or a cross-linked polyurethane.

In some embodiments, positioning the lattice within the cavity of the mold includes the plurality of voids being sized in a range of <NUM> to <NUM>. Flowing the elastomer into the cavity of the mold occurs without the lattice being surface treated. Flowing the elastomer may include flowing a liquid elastomer such as liquid silicone or a liquid perfluoropolyether.

In certain embodiments, the method includes securing the leg to a base ring. Securing the leg to the base ring may include inserting an attachment tab of the leg into a recess defined in the base ring.

Further, to the extent consistent, any of the aspects described herein may be used in conjunction with any or all of the other aspects described herein.

Various aspects of the present disclosure are described hereinbelow with reference to the drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, wherein:.

The present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to example embodiments thereof with reference to the drawings in which like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding elements in each of the several views. These example embodiments are described so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. Indeed, the disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," "the," and the like include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, while reference may be made herein to quantitative measures, values, geometric relationships or the like, unless otherwise stated, any one or more if not all of these may be absolute or approximate to account for acceptable variations that may occur, such as those due to manufacturing or engineering tolerances or the like.

Referring now to <FIG>, a composite gasket <NUM> is provided in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure which is not part of the present invention. The gasket <NUM> includes a frame <NUM> and an elastomeric section <NUM>. The frame <NUM> is provided to increase rigidity of the gasket <NUM> or increase retention of the gasket <NUM> when compared to a gasket formed entirely of a molded elastomer. The frame <NUM> may be rigid or may be flexible. The frame <NUM> may be formed of a thermoplastic, a polysulfone, a polyether ether ketone, a thermoset, or a metal. For example, suitable thermoplastics may include polyamides, suitable thermosets may include acrylics, polyurethanes, or cyanate esters, and suitable metals may include stainless steel, copper, and aluminum.

With particular reference to <FIG>, the frame <NUM> includes a body <NUM> and a lattice <NUM>. The body <NUM> forms a ring with the lattice <NUM> extending inward from an inner surface of the ring. The body <NUM> and the lattice <NUM> are integrally formed with one another. In some embodiments, the body <NUM> and the lattice <NUM> are monolithically formed with one another. For example, the body <NUM> and the lattice <NUM> may be formed through an additive manufacturing process, e.g., three-dimensional printing. The body <NUM> is substantially solid and may be exposed to an external environment after overmolding. Specifically, portions of or the entire body <NUM> may not be overmolded with an elastomer. Alternatively, portions of or the entire body <NUM> may be overmolded with an elastomer.

The lattice <NUM> forms an open cell structure and is configured to be overmolded with an elastomer to form the elastomeric section <NUM> thereabout. The lattice <NUM> is formed by a plurality of members or arms that form an open-mesh frame. The lattice <NUM> defines a plurality of openings or voids <NUM> between adjacent arms throughout. The arms may be cylindrical with a circular cross-section or may have a triangular, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, or other polygonal cross-section. The arms may from an open cubic frame, an open pyramidal frame, or other open frame. The voids <NUM> are sized to allow an elastomer to flow through the voids <NUM> of the lattice <NUM> and to solidify or harden within and about the lattice <NUM>. In embodiments, the voids <NUM> may be sized in a range of <NUM> to <NUM>.

The lattice <NUM> may define a rib segment <NUM> adjacent the body <NUM> and a flange segment <NUM> extending from the rib segment <NUM> away from the body <NUM>. The rib segment <NUM> may have a thickness greater than the flange segment <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the lattice <NUM> may include a tapered end <NUM> in the flange segment <NUM> away from the body <NUM>. In some embodiments, the lattice <NUM> has a substantially uniform thickness from the body <NUM> to an end <NUM> of the lattice <NUM>.

With additional reference to <FIG>, to form the elastomeric section <NUM> about the lattice <NUM>, a mold <NUM> is secured about the lattice <NUM> with the lattice <NUM> disposed within a cavity <NUM> defined by the mold <NUM>. As shown, the mold <NUM> forms a seal with the body <NUM> with the body <NUM> outside of the cavity <NUM>. In some embodiments, a portion of or the entire body <NUM> may be disposed within the cavity <NUM> of the mold <NUM>.

When the elastomeric section <NUM> is molded over the lattice <NUM>, the elastomeric section <NUM> includes a rib <NUM> and a flange <NUM>. The dimensions of the rib <NUM> and the flange <NUM> are determined by the cavity <NUM> of the mold <NUM>. The elastomeric section <NUM> may include a rib <NUM> even when the lattice <NUM> has a substantially uniform thickness from the body to an end <NUM> of the lattice <NUM>, i.e., when the lattice <NUM> does not include a rib segment <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, a method of forming a composite article <NUM> is described with reference to the gasket <NUM> and mold <NUM> of <FIG>. While the method <NUM> is detailed with respect to the gasket <NUM>, the method <NUM> may be used to form a variety of composite articles including, but not limited to, gaskets, handles, non-slip feet, caps or lids for vessels, or handles for hand tools.

Initially, the frame <NUM> is formed to a desired shape (Step <NUM>). The desired shape of the frame <NUM> may be determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to, a desired shape of the finished composite article, e.g., the gasket <NUM>; a shape of an elastomeric section of the finished article; a desired rigidity of the finished composite article; and other performance factors associated with the finished composite article. The desired shape of the frame <NUM> includes a shape of the body section <NUM> and a shape of the lattice <NUM>. The shape of the lattice <NUM> includes outer dimensions of the lattice <NUM> and the size of the voids <NUM> of the lattice <NUM>. The size of the voids <NUM> of the lattice <NUM> may be determined based on a complexity of the shape of the lattice <NUM>, an elastomer to comprise the elastomeric section <NUM>, a desired rigidity of the elastomeric section <NUM>, a material forming the lattice <NUM>, and/or desired performance characteristics of the elastomeric section <NUM>. Forming the frame <NUM> including the lattice <NUM> can include forming the lattice <NUM> with additive manufacturing methods. For example, the lattice <NUM> may be three-dimensionally printed and can be formed of cross-linked cyanate ester or cross-linked polyurethane.

With the frame <NUM> formed, the frame <NUM> is positioned within the mold <NUM> with at least the lattice <NUM> disposed within the cavity <NUM> of the mold <NUM> (Step <NUM>). The elastomer is then injected into the cavity <NUM> of the mold <NUM> to overmold at least the lattice <NUM> of the frame <NUM> (Step <NUM>). As the elastomer is injected into the mold <NUM>, the elastomer flows around the lattice <NUM> and through the voids <NUM> of the lattice <NUM> such that the elastomer is molded about and within the lattice <NUM>. As elastomer solidifies or hardens within the mold <NUM>, the elastomer may bond to the lattice <NUM> to form the elastomeric section <NUM> of the gasket <NUM>. The elastomer may flow through the mold <NUM> as a liquid such as liquid silicone or liquid perfluoropolyether.

When the elastomer is sufficiently hardened, the gasket <NUM> is removed from the mold <NUM> (Step <NUM>). The elastomer may be a thermoset or a thermoplastic. For example, suitable thermoplastic elastomers may include block copolymers of styrene-isobutylene-styrene, Santoprene™, blends of ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM) and polypropylene, or thermoplastic polyurethanes and suitable thermoset elastomers may include silicones such as silicones (VMQ), phenyl silicone (PMVQ), perfluoro polyether elastomers, polyurethanes, perfluorinated elastomers (FFKM), or fluoroelastomers (FKM).

The lattice <NUM> provides increased surface area for the elastomer to bond such that the elastomeric section <NUM> forms an improved bond to the frame <NUM> when compared to a body <NUM> without the lattice <NUM>. The improved bond may be the result of enhanced mechanical attachment between the elastomeric section <NUM> and the frame <NUM>. The improved bond provided by the lattice <NUM> may improve the durability of the elastomeric section <NUM> and may improve a peel strength between the lattice <NUM> and the elastomeric section <NUM> to reduce the possibility of delaminating between the frame <NUM> and the elastomeric section <NUM>. In addition, the lattice <NUM> within the elastomeric section <NUM> may increase a toughness of the elastomeric section <NUM>. The increased toughness of the elastomeric section <NUM> may be the result of micro reinforcement provided by the lattice <NUM> to the elastomeric section <NUM>.

Further, the increased surface area between the elastomer and the lattice <NUM> may allow for overmolding of the lattice <NUM> without surface treating the lattice <NUM>. Eliminating a treatment step associated with traditional overmolding may decrease a number of steps to produce composite articles, e.g., gasket <NUM>; and thus, may reduce a cost of overmolded elastomeric articles.

In some embodiments where a portion of the overmolded elastomeric article is compressed, the lattice <NUM> may improve extrusion resistance of the compressed portion. For example, in use, the flange <NUM> of the gasket <NUM> may be compressed between two elements with a pathway <NUM> (<FIG>) being formed through the gasket <NUM>. The lattice <NUM> may improve extrusion resistance of the flange <NUM> from extruding into the pathway <NUM> while maintaining a seal between the two elements compressing the flange <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, another composite gasket <NUM> is provided in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure which is not part of the present invention. The gasket <NUM> is similar to the gasket <NUM> detailed above with similar elements having a similar label with a "<NUM>" preceding the previous label. For reasons of brevity, only the differences between the gasket <NUM> and the gasket <NUM> will be detailed herein. The gasket <NUM> includes a frame <NUM> and an elastomeric section <NUM>. The elastomeric section <NUM> is similar to the elastomeric section <NUM> detailed above.

With particular reference to <FIG>, the frame <NUM> includes a body <NUM>, grips.

<NUM>, and a lattice <NUM> that are integrally formed with one another. In some embodiments, the body <NUM>, the grips <NUM>, and the lattice <NUM> are monolithically formed with one another. For example, the body <NUM>, the grips <NUM>, and the lattice <NUM> may be formed through an additive manufacturing process, e.g., three-dimensional printing. The body <NUM> and the grips <NUM> are substantially solid and may be exposed to an external environment after overmolding. Specifically, portions of or the entire body <NUM> or the grips <NUM> may not be overmolded with an elastomer. Alternatively, portions of or the entire body <NUM> or the entire grips <NUM> may be overmolded with an elastomer.

The grips <NUM> may provide surfaces to grasp the gasket <NUM>. The grips <NUM> may be flexible or may be rigid. The body <NUM> may include three grips <NUM> as shown or may include a few as a single grip <NUM> or more than three grips <NUM>. The grips <NUM> may extend in a range of <NUM> degrees to <NUM> degrees of the circumference of the body <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, another composite gasket <NUM> is provided in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure which is not part of the present invention. The gasket <NUM> is similar to the gasket <NUM> detailed above with similar elements having a similar label with a preceding "<NUM>" the previous label. For reasons of brevity, only the differences between the gasket <NUM> and the gasket <NUM> will be detailed herein. The gasket <NUM> includes a frame <NUM> and an elastomeric section <NUM>. The elastomeric section <NUM> is similar to the elastomeric section <NUM> detailed above.

With particular reference to <FIG>, the frame <NUM> includes a body <NUM> and a lattice <NUM> that are integrally formed with one another. In some embodiments, the body <NUM> and the lattice <NUM> are monolithically formed with one another. For example, the body <NUM> and the lattice <NUM> may be formed through an additive manufacturing process, e.g., three-dimensional printing. The body <NUM> is substantially solid and is entirely overmolded by an elastomer. In some embodiment, portions of or the entire body <NUM> may be exposed to an external environment after overmolding. Specifically, portions of or the entire body <NUM> may not be overmolded with an elastomer.

The body <NUM> is forms a rectangular shape with a pathway <NUM> defined through the body <NUM>. The lattice <NUM> extends from the body <NUM> towards the pathway <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. The body <NUM> or the lattice <NUM> may define recesses <NUM> adjacent each corner of the body <NUM> and at one or more points between corners of the body <NUM>. The structure of the lattice <NUM> is substantially similar to the structure of the lattice <NUM> detailed above with respect to gasket <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, a composite vessel cap <NUM> is provided in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure which is not part of the present invention. The vessel cap <NUM> includes frame or body <NUM> and an elastomeric section or seal <NUM>. The body <NUM> includes a sidewall <NUM> that a cover <NUM> at one end of the sidewall <NUM>. The cover <NUM> is circular or disc shaped with the sidewall <NUM> circumscribing the circumference of the cover <NUM> and extending in a direction away from the cover <NUM>. An inner surface of the sidewall <NUM> may be threaded and configured to thread over a neck of a vessel to close an opening of the vessel passing through the neck. Alternatively, the inner surface of the sidewall <NUM> may include features, e.g., snap rings or protrusions, that are configured to pass over and secure to a neck of a vessel to close an opening of the vessel passing through the neck. The cover <NUM> may define one or more ports <NUM> therethrough with each port <NUM> receiving a conduit <NUM> therethrough. The conduits <NUM> may be sealingly engaged by the elastomeric seal <NUM>. In some embodiments, the cover <NUM> is a solid disc and does not include a port <NUM>.

With particular reference to <FIG>, the body <NUM> also includes a lattice <NUM> extending from the cover <NUM> and positioned within the sidewall <NUM>. As shown, the lattice <NUM> is also connected to the sidewall <NUM>; however, in some embodiments, the lattice <NUM> may be spaced apart from the sidewall <NUM>. The lattice <NUM> extends from the cover <NUM> a portion of the length of the sidewall <NUM> and is configured to receive an elastomer to form the elastomeric seal <NUM>. The lattice <NUM> may define portions of the ports <NUM> passing through the cover <NUM> and receive portions of the conduits <NUM> therethrough. The structure of the lattice <NUM> is substantially similar to the structure of the lattice <NUM> detailed above with respect to gasket <NUM>.

The sidewall <NUM>, the cover <NUM>, and the lattice <NUM> are integrally formed with one another. In some embodiments, the sidewall <NUM>, the cover <NUM>, and the lattice <NUM> are monolithically formed with one another. For example, the sidewall <NUM>, the cover <NUM>, and the lattice <NUM> may be formed through an additive manufacturing process, e.g., three-dimensional printing. The sidewall <NUM> and the cover <NUM> are substantially solid and may be exposed to an external environment after overmolding. Specifically, portions of or the entire sidewall <NUM> or the cover <NUM> may not be overmolded with an elastomer. Alternatively, portions of or the sidewall <NUM> or the entire cover <NUM> may be overmolded with an elastomer.

The elastomeric seal <NUM> is disposed within the sidewall <NUM> and is overmolded with the lattice <NUM>. The elastomeric seal <NUM> may form a seal with the conduits <NUM> passing through the ports <NUM> and secure the conduits <NUM> within the ports <NUM>. The elastomeric seal <NUM> may be configured to form a seal with a neck of a vessel received within the sidewall <NUM> and form a seal about an opening of the vessel passing through the neck.

The lattice <NUM> may improve a quality of a seal formed between the elastomeric seal <NUM> and a conduit <NUM> or between the elastomeric seal <NUM> and the neck of a vessel. For example, the lattice <NUM> may improve extrusion resistance of the elastomeric seal <NUM> into the ports <NUM> to prevent compression of a conduit <NUM> within a port <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, a frame <NUM> of another composite vessel cap <NUM> is provided in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The vessel cap <NUM> is similar to the vessel cap <NUM> with only the differences detailed herein for brevity.

The frame or body <NUM> of the vessel cap <NUM> includes a lattice <NUM> about a periphery of the cover <NUM> such that a central portion 323a of the cover <NUM> does not include the lattice <NUM>. The lattice <NUM> may be configured to be disposed about a portion of the cover <NUM> engaged by a neck of vessel. When the frame <NUM> is overmolded, the elastomeric section (not shown) does not extend over the central portion 323a and is only molded over the portion of the frame including the lattice.

Referring now to <FIG>, a shaker flask stand <NUM> with composite feet <NUM> is provided in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The stand <NUM> includes an upper ring <NUM>, a base ring <NUM>, a base <NUM>, and legs <NUM>. The base ring <NUM> is secured to the base <NUM> with the upper ring <NUM> supported above and axially aligned with the base ring <NUM> and the base <NUM>. The base <NUM> is circular in shape and forms a disc. The base ring <NUM> is secured to the base <NUM> and may be positioned above the base <NUM>. The base ring <NUM> may be configured to retain a lower portion of a flask, e.g., an Erlenmeyer flask, as the flask is shaken. The base <NUM> may be configured to act as a rest for the lower portion of the flask while allowing the lower portion to slide along a surface thereof as the stand <NUM>, and the flask, are shaken.

The legs <NUM> extend from the base <NUM> or the base ring <NUM> to the upper ring <NUM>. Each leg <NUM> may be secured to the base <NUM> and in particular to a lower surface of the base <NUM>. Additionally or alternatively, each leg <NUM> may be secured to the base ring <NUM>. Each leg <NUM> includes an upper hook <NUM> that releaseably couples to the upper ring <NUM>. The upper hook <NUM> allows the upper ring <NUM> to be secured to the over base <NUM> after a flask is received on the base <NUM> and within the base ring <NUM>. The upper ring <NUM> is configured to prevent a flask received within the stand <NUM> from tipping or toppling over while the flask is shaken or positioned on a balance. The upper ring <NUM> may have a diameter equal to a diameter of the base ring <NUM> or may have a diameter substantially smaller than a diameter of the base ring <NUM>. The diameter of the upper ring <NUM> may be determined by a diameter of a neck of flask received within the stand <NUM>.

The upper ring <NUM>, the base ring <NUM>, and the base <NUM> may be constructed of a variety of materials including a metal such as aluminum or steel, a plastic such as a thermoplastic or a thermoset. The upper ring <NUM>, the base ring <NUM>, and the base <NUM> are rigid and may be coated with a material to reduce impact forces with a flask received within the stand <NUM>.

Each leg <NUM> includes a body <NUM> and a molded elastomeric section or foot <NUM>. With particular reference to <FIG>, the body <NUM> includes the upper hook <NUM> at one end portion and includes a lattice <NUM> at the other end portion opposite the upper hook <NUM>. The lattice <NUM> extends outward from the lower end portion of the body <NUM>. The lattice <NUM> may extend entirely to an end of the leg <NUM> or may terminate spaced apart from the end of the leg <NUM>. The structure of the lattice <NUM> is substantially similar to the structure of the lattice <NUM> detailed above with respect to gasket <NUM>.

The body <NUM> may be integrally formed with the upper hook <NUM> and the lattice <NUM> integrally formed with one another. In some embodiments, the entire body <NUM> is monolithically formed. For example, the body <NUM> may be formed through an additive manufacturing process, e.g., three-dimensional printing. The body <NUM> may substantially solid with portions thereof exposed to an external environment after overmolding. Specifically, portions of the body <NUM> may not be overmolded with an elastomer. Alternatively, the entire body <NUM> may be overmolded with an elastomer.

The elastomeric section or elastomeric feet <NUM> are formed by overmolding the lattice <NUM> with an elastomer. For example, the lower end portion of each leg <NUM> may be disposed within a mold such that the lattice <NUM> is disposed within a cavity of the mold. An elastomer is then flowed through the cavity of the mold such that the elastomer flows through voids <NUM> of the lattice <NUM> and around the lattice <NUM>. When the elastomer hardens, the elastomeric feet <NUM> are formed over the lattice <NUM> such that the elastomeric feet <NUM> are molded over the lattice <NUM>.

In use, the elastomeric feet <NUM> are configured to contact a surface and support the stand <NUM>. The feet <NUM> may be configured to contact a shaker plate or platform and resist movement of the stand <NUM> relative to the shaker plate or platform. The lattice <NUM> within each foot <NUM> may improve durability of the foot <NUM> compared to a foot without the lattice <NUM>. The lattice <NUM> within each foot <NUM> may improve a peel strength between the foot <NUM> and the body <NUM> to resist separation or delamination of the foot <NUM> from the body <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, another shaker flask stand <NUM> with composite feet <NUM> (<FIG>) is provided in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The stand <NUM> includes flask arms <NUM>, a base ring <NUM>, and legs <NUM>. The flask arms <NUM> extend from the base ring <NUM> and are configured to secure a flask to the flask stand <NUM>. Specifically, the flask arms <NUM> are configured to retain a lower portion of a flask, e.g., an Erlenmeyer flask, as the flask is shaken. The flask arms <NUM> are configured to prevent a flask received within the stand <NUM> from tipping or toppling over while the flask is manipulated. The flask arms <NUM> may extend from the base ring <NUM> adjacent each of the legs <NUM>. The flask arms <NUM> may be resilient to flex outward as a flask is received on over the stand <NUM> and to engage the flask to secure the flask to the flask stand <NUM>. As shown, the stand <NUM> includes four flask arms <NUM> and four legs <NUM> radially spaced about the base ring <NUM>. In some embodiments, the stand <NUM> includes three flask arms <NUM> or three legs <NUM> and in some embodiments, the stand <NUM> includes more than four flask arms <NUM> or more than four legs <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the stand <NUM> includes an unequal number of flask arms <NUM> and legs <NUM>.

The base ring <NUM> is configured to act as a rest for the lower portion of the flask while allowing the lower portion to slide along a surface thereof as the stand <NUM>, and the flask, are shaken. The legs <NUM> extend outward from the base ring <NUM>. Each leg <NUM> is secured to the base ring <NUM> by an attachment tab <NUM> that extends from one end of the leg <NUM> and is configured to secure the leg <NUM> to the base ring <NUM>. The base ring <NUM> may define a recess configured to receive the attachment tab <NUM> therein. The attachment tab <NUM> may be secured to the base ring <NUM> by a fastener, may be secured to the base ring <NUM> by an adhesive, and/or may be welded, e.g., ultrasonically welded, to the base ring <NUM>.

The flask arms <NUM> and the base ring <NUM> may be constructed of a variety of materials including a metal such as aluminum or steel, a plastic such as a thermoplastic or a thermoset. The flask arms <NUM> and the base ring <NUM> are substantially rigid and may be coated with a material to reduce impact forces with a flask received within the stand <NUM>.

Each leg <NUM> includes a frame or body <NUM> and a molded elastomeric section or foot <NUM>. With particular reference to <FIG>, the body <NUM> includes foot portion <NUM> at an end of the leg <NUM> opposite the attachment tab <NUM>. The foot portion <NUM> includes a lattice <NUM> that extends into the foot portion <NUM> of the leg <NUM>. The lattice <NUM> may extend outward from a lower surface of the body <NUM>. The structure of the lattice <NUM> is substantially similar to the structure of the lattice <NUM> detailed above with respect to gasket <NUM>.

The body <NUM> may be integrally formed with the lattice <NUM>. In some embodiments, the entire body <NUM> is monolithically formed. For example, the body <NUM> may be formed through an additive manufacturing process, e.g., three-dimensional printing. The body <NUM> may substantially solid with portions thereof exposed to an external environment after overmolding. Specifically, portions of the body <NUM> may not be overmolded with an elastomer. Alternatively, the entire body <NUM> may be overmolded with an elastomer.

The elastomeric section or elastomeric feet <NUM> are formed by overmolding the lattice <NUM> with an elastomer. For example, the foot portion <NUM> of each leg <NUM> may be disposed within a mold such that the lattice <NUM> is disposed within a cavity of the mold. An elastomer is then flowed through the cavity of the mold such that the elastomer flows through voids <NUM> of the lattice <NUM> and around the lattice <NUM>. When the elastomer hardens, the elastomeric feet <NUM> are formed over the lattice <NUM> such that the elastomeric feet <NUM> are molded over the lattice <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, a hand tool <NUM> including a composite handle <NUM> is provided in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure which is not part of the present invention. As shown, the hand tool <NUM> is a screw driver; however, it is contemplated that the molded elastomeric handle <NUM> may be used with a variety of hand tools including, but not limited to, screwdrivers, pliers, surgical tools, knives, kitchen tools, carpentry tools, metal working tools, laboratory equipment, etc..

The hand tool <NUM> includes a shaft <NUM> having a working portion <NUM>, and a shank <NUM>. The shank <NUM> may include securement features that extend radially outward from the shank <NUM> or are defined within the shank <NUM>, e.g., recesses, and are configured to improve securement of the handle <NUM> to the shank <NUM>. For example, the shank <NUM> may include a plurality of wings (not shown) disposed radially about the shank <NUM>. Additionally or alternatively, a surface of the shank <NUM> may be rough to enhance bonding of the elastomeric section <NUM> with the shank <NUM>. While the shank <NUM> of hand tool <NUM> is shown as a linear shank; in some embodiments, a shank may be curved, form a loop, form a hook, etc. In addition, a shank <NUM> may be provided without attachment features. The shank <NUM> may include a plurality of longitudinal grooves (not shown) configured to receive an elastomer during molding.

The handle <NUM> includes a frame <NUM> and an elastomeric section <NUM>. The frame <NUM> is disposed within and overmolded by an elastomer that forms the elastomeric section <NUM>. The frame <NUM> includes bodies <NUM> and a lattice <NUM> that defines a passage <NUM> therethrough that is configured to receive the shank <NUM>. As shown, the lattice <NUM> extends between the bodies <NUM> and forms a web between the bodies <NUM>. In some embodiments, the lattice <NUM> forms a shell between the bodies <NUM> and defines an empty core between the bodies <NUM>. The empty core may be filled with elastomer. The lattice <NUM> may form an outer shell about the passage <NUM> with elastomer. The structure and formation of the lattice <NUM> is substantially similar to the structure and formation of the lattice <NUM> detailed above with respect to gasket <NUM>.

With the lattice <NUM> positioned over the shank <NUM>, a mold is placed over the shank <NUM> and the lattice <NUM>. Elastomer is then flowed into a cavity of the mold through and about the lattice <NUM> and the shank <NUM> to form the elastomeric section <NUM> of the handle <NUM>. The elastomer mechanically attaches to the lattice <NUM> which may improve durability of the handle <NUM>. In addition, the lattice <NUM> may reinforce the elastomeric section <NUM> to improve retention and securement to the shank <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A flask stand (<NUM>, <NUM>) configured to support a flask, the flask stand (<NUM>, <NUM>) comprising:
a base ring (<NUM>, <NUM>) configured to support a lower portion of the flask; and
a plurality of legs (<NUM>, <NUM>), each leg (<NUM>, <NUM>) secured to the base ring (<NUM>, <NUM>) and extending outward from the base ring (<NUM>, <NUM>), each leg (<NUM>, <NUM>) comprising:
a body (<NUM>, <NUM>) having a first end portion secured the base ring (<NUM>, <NUM>) and a foot portion (<NUM>) opposite the first end portion;
a lattice (<NUM>, <NUM>) formed within the foot portion (<NUM>), the lattice (<NUM>, <NUM>) including a plurality of members that form an open-mesh frame defining a plurality of voids (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) between adjacent members of the frame; and
an elastomeric foot (<NUM>, <NUM>) formed of an elastomer disposed about the lattice (<NUM>, <NUM>) and within the voids (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) of the lattice (<NUM>, <NUM>), the foot (<NUM>, <NUM>) configured to engage a surface to support the body (<NUM>, <NUM>) relative to the surface.