3FORM, INC. Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20150140252 | VARIABLE INTERLAYER LAMINATE PANELS AND METHODS OF FORMING THE SAME - A variable interlayer laminate panel can include resin material derived from other resin panels, enabling use of waste trimmings from the manufacture of the other resin panels. Implementations therefore enable manufacturers to produce high-fashion but waste conscious resin panels that have a high degree of recycled content. In one implementation, a manufacturer forms a laminate panel by positioning a plurality of independent resin portions over a first resin substrate, and then by positioning a second resin substrate over the resin portions. The resin portions comprise embedded decorative elements, and at least two different resin portions comprise different types of decorative elements. The manufacturer then forms the laminate panel through the application of pressure and heat. The resulting panel has a variable interlayer formed from the independent resin portions. The laminate panel is usable as part of a panel system. | 05-21-2015 |
20140314896 | PRINTED MOLD AND TEXTURED PANELS FORMED USING THE SAME - Implementations of the present disclosure relate to systems, methods, and apparatus for finishing polymer products and producing one or more designs, textures, and/or embossment patterns on the surface thereof. At least one implementation includes a printed mold that a manufacturer can produce quickly and inexpensively by producing a three-dimensional representation of a two-dimensional image on the surface of a substrate material. The printed mold also can allow the manufacturer to customize designs, textures, and/or embossment patterns on polymer products, while reducing manufacturing costs. | 10-23-2014 |
20140272294 | DECORATIVE PANELS WITH RECESSED PATTERNS AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME WITH A FLEXIBLE DIE - Implementations of the present invention relate to decorative thermoplastic resin panels, which can include one or more recesses. The recess of the thermoplastic resin panels can have texture or texture patterns that differ from the texture or texture patterns of non-recessed portions or other recesses of the decorative thermoplastic resin panel. Additionally, the present invention relates to a method for forming recesses in thermoplastic panels with a flexible die. | 09-18-2014 |
20140268686 | STAR LIGHTING FIXTURE - Systems, methods, and apparatus for illumination and/or providing an aesthetically pleasing lighted structure can include a hollow core with a plurality of cover panels mounted radially thereto. In at least one implementation, a lighting fixture can incorporate a lighted core and lighted or unlighted elements surrounding the lighted core. Furthermore, the lighted core can house lighting elements, while providing substantially unimpeded access thereto. | 09-18-2014 |
20140220317 | RESIN-BASED PANEL WITH ENCAPSULATED HIGH-RESOLUTION IMAGE LAYER AND METHODS OF MAKING SAME - Implementations of the present invention relate to systems, methods, and apparatus for manufacturing aesthetically pleasing, decorative architectural resin panels having high-resolution image layers. In particular, at least one implementation includes a laminated resin panel having a decorative image layer formed from layered or cross-linked ink free from cracks, splits, or other deformation. Additional implementations relate to curved or otherwise non-planar decorative architectural resin panels having high-resolution image layers. | 08-07-2014 |
20140199525 | STRUCTURED-CORE LAMINATE PANELS AND METHODS OF FORMING THE SAME - A structured-core laminate panel can be made in an efficient, structurally sound manner, even without the use of adhesives (film or liquid forms) using materials with different melt or glass transition temperatures. In one implementation, a manufacturer positions one or more resin substrates about a structured core member, which comprises a relatively high melt or glass transition temperature compared with that of the one or more resin substrates. The manufacturer heats the assembly to at least the glass transition temperature of the resin substrates, but not to the melt or glass transition temperature of the structured core member. This allows the one or more resin substrates to melt and bond (mechanically, chemically, or both) to the structured core member on one side (or inner surface), while maintaining a substantially planar or original conformation on an opposing side (or outer surface). | 07-17-2014 |
20140145043 | PANEL MOUNTING SYSTEM - In general, implementations of the present invention include devices, systems, and components for mounting and/or displaying panels and panel structures with one or more post modules. The post modules, according to the present invention, can include a post, which can secure one or more panels, and covers that can conceal the post from view. Additionally, the post modules can have hollow channels between the covers and the post, which can house wires, cords, lighting elements, and other components. | 05-29-2014 |
20140096467 | MAGNETIC-LOCK PANEL MOUNTING APPARATUS, SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Magnetic-lock panel mounting assemblies allow mounting, dismounting, and reconfiguration of decorative architectural resin panels relative to a support structure in a quick and efficient manner. The magnetic-lock panel mounting assemblies can include a housing, a locking pin, a locking sleeve, and one or more locking elements. The housing can receive and selectively lock the locking pin therein. Placing a magnet proximate the magnetic-lock panel mounting assembly can automatically unlock the locking pin from the housing. In addition, implementations of the present invention include systems and methods for mounting panels to a support structures using one or more magnetic-lock panel mounting assemblies. | 04-10-2014 |
20140072732 | LAMINATE PANELS PRODUCED FROM BIOPOLYMERS - A method for manufacturing the biopolymer panel may include positioning a plurality of biopolymer sheets adjacent to one another, and subjecting them to a laminating temperature that exceeds the glass-transition temperature of the sheets for a time period sufficient to achieve lamination. The laminate panel is then quenched at a quenching temperature that is below the glass-transition temperature. The time period during lamination, as well as any “rest” period between lamination and quenching, is sufficiently short so as to prevent clouding or hazing as a result of crystallization of the biopolymer resin materials. In addition, the panel exhibits sufficient flame retardency to meet applicable building codes, exhibits sufficient impact resistance for use as a decorative or structural panel building material, and exhibits no substantial thermally induced degradation as a result of subjection to the laminating temperature. The panels may be used as decorative or structural building materials. | 03-13-2014 |
20140013691 | STRUCTURED-CORE LAMINATE PANELS AND METHODS OF FORMING THE SAME - A structured-core laminate panel can be made in an efficient, structurally sound manner without the use of adhesives (film or liquid forms) using materials with different melt or glass transition temperatures. In one implementation, a manufacturer positions one or more resin substrates about a structured core, which comprises a relatively high melt or glass transition temperature compared with that of the one or more resin substrates. The manufacturer heats the assembly to at least the glass transition temperature of the resin substrates, but not to the melt or glass transition temperature of the structured core. This allows the one or more resin substrates to melt and bond (mechanically, chemically, or both) to the structured core on one side (or inner surface), while maintaining a substantially planar or original conformation on an opposing side (or outer surface). | 01-16-2014 |
20130316146 | MULTIVARIATE COLOR SYSTEM WITH TEXTURE APPLICATION - Implementations of the present invention relate to a translucent and/or transparent polymer-based panel system that incorporates multi-colored insert layers that enable manipulation of color, transparency or light transmission of the finished panel system. Implementations of the present invention also relate to the construction of such panels to avoid the capture and retention of air within the panels through the use of textured surfaces at the lamination interfaces. In addition, implementations of the present invention provide a method of quantifying the optical response achieved in a given panel system and describes types of construction that enable the multiplicity of color and optic manipulation. Furthermore, implementations of the present invention provide methods for applying texture in an efficient, uniform manner. | 11-28-2013 |
20130271977 | ADJUSTABLE, MODULAR LIGHTING FIXTURE - Implementations of the present invention relate to a rotatable and/or slidable lighting module. The lighting module can have a lighting fixture assembly that is optionally capable of rotating with respect to a support base to allow the lighting fixture assembly to project light on a desired surface or area. The lighting fixture assembly can also slide or move relative to the support base to allow the position of the lighting fixture to be selectively varied. | 10-17-2013 |
20130265758 | SUN LIGHT FIXTURE - Implementations of the present invention relate to systems, methods, and apparatus for illuminating and/or providing an aesthetically pleasing lighted structure. In particular, implementations of the present invention provide a light fixture, which can incorporate resin elements surrounding a lighted core. Additionally, one or more implementations also include methods of manufacturing the lighted fixture to achieve a desirable aesthetic thereof. Furthermore, in one or more implementations, the light fixture can resemble or imitate a sun, which can appeal to a viewer thereof. | 10-10-2013 |
20130235591 | RESIN-BASED SCULPTURES WITH AESTHETICALLY PLEASING HARDWARE - The disclosure involves resin-based sculptures, such as resin-based lighting fixtures, that include resin pieces secured together by resin-based fasteners. One or more resin-based fasteners secure the resin pieces. Furthermore, the resin-based fasteners are configured to blend in with the resin pieces in a manner that reduces the visibility of the resin-based fasteners. For instance, the resin-based fasteners can have a color and/or shade that match the color and/or shade of the resin strips. | 09-12-2013 |
20130214107 | MELT-BONDABLE PANEL MOUNTING BRACKETS, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS - Panel mounting components and systems for mounting objects, such as decorative architectural resin panels, can include a melt-bondable panel mounting bracket. Melt-bondable panel mounting brackets can include one or more bonding features configured to be pressed or rotated into a resin-based panel, thereby allowing additional components, such as a twist-lock mounting assembly, to be secured directly to a single side of a panel. Methods of securing melt-bondable panel mounting brackets to a resin panel can include rotating the melt-bondable panel mounting brackets at high speeds of rotation to cause a portion of the resin panel to melt and bond about the melt-bondable panel mounting brackets. | 08-22-2013 |
20130192772 | DECORATIVE MULTI-SLAT SYSTEM - Implementations of the present invention relate to devices, systems, and methods related to mounting decorative slats. In particular, the present invention facilitates accurate mounting and installation of a decorative multi-slat system, which can provide aesthetic enhancement for a particular space. Furthermore, the method of installing the decorative multi-slat system can allow an installer to reduce likelihood of errors and misalignments of the system, which can occur during the installation. | 08-01-2013 |
20130149484 | PANELS WITH DECORATIVE OBJECTS AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME - Implementations of the present invention relate to systems, methods, and apparatus for embedding objects within thermoplastic resin material and decorative thermoplastic panels resulting therefrom. Implementations include fusing thermoplastic resin particles together to form a decorative resin panel. Furthermore, a manufacturer can place decorative objects within the bed of thermoplastic resin particles to fabricate a decorative resin panel that encapsulates the decorative objects therein. | 06-13-2013 |
20130100649 | RESIN-BASED LIGHTING FIXTURES AND METHODS OF FORMING THE SAME - Resin-based lighting fixtures provide both light and a desirable aesthetic. The resin-based lighting fixtures include a plurality of propellers having curved resin strips that at least partially conceal a light source. The resin strips can form any number of aesthetically pleasing configurations, such as, for example, a blossom. The resin strips can be transparent or translucent. When lit, the light source can illuminate the resin strips. | 04-25-2013 |
20130061913 | ARCHITECTURAL PANELS WITH ORGANIC PHOTOVOLTAIC INTERLAYERS AND METHODS OF FORMING THE SAME - A method of making a photovoltaic panel includes previously preparing one or more pre-formed substrates with a first temperature and pressure to be non-planar, textured, embossed, colored, or combinations thereof. A manufacturer can then prepare a laminate assembly comprising one or more organic photovoltaic components one or more pre-formed substrates, and a barrier layer with one or more thermally-activated thermoplastic tie layers there between. The manufacturer can then finish the photovoltaic panel lamination by subjecting the assembly to a second set of temperatures and pressures sufficient to activate and bond the pre-formed substrate, barrier layer, and photovoltaic components without significantly softening the pre-formed substrates or otherwise degrading/damaging the organic photovoltaic components. A non-planar panel made by this method can be used in both exterior and interior decorative and/or structural applications where electrical generation is desired. | 03-14-2013 |
20130032290 | EFFICIENT LAMINATION PRESS WITH THIN FLEXIBLE PLATENS - Implementations of the present invention relate to systems, methods, and apparatus for applying heat and pressure to a laminate assembly and to form a unitary product therefrom with increased processing efficiency. One implementation includes an apparatus that can decrease processing time by directly heating and cooling platens that press the laminate assembly. Additionally, the lamination press can allow the platens to flex about the laminate assembly, thereby applying substantially uniform pressure to the laminate assembly. | 02-07-2013 |
20120288694 | RESIN PANELS WITH LARGE DECORATIVE OBJECTS AND METHODS OF MAKING SAME - Implementations of the present invention relate to systems, methods, and apparatus for manufacturing aesthetically pleasing architectural resin panels having a thick three-dimensional interlayer. In particular, at least one implementation includes a layup assembly that includes a decorative interlayer, positioned between resin sheets, that decorative interlayer comprising one or more three-dimensional decorative objects and one or more resin blocks. At least one implementation also includes a single-step lamination or pressing process that uses a combination of heat and pressure to melt the resin sheets and the resin blocks together, forming a decorative resin panel which includes the three-dimensional objects. | 11-15-2012 |
20120225265 | MULTIVARIATE COLOR SYSTEM WITH TEXTURE APPLICATION - Implementations of the present invention relate to a translucent and/or transparent polymer-based panel system that incorporates multi-colored insert layers that enable manipulation of color, transparency or light transmission of the finished panel system. Implementations of the present invention also relate to the construction of such panels to avoid the capture and retention of air within the panels through the use of textured surfaces at the lamination interfaces. In addition, implementations of the present invention provide a method of quantifying the optical response achieved in a given panel system and describes types of construction that enable the multiplicity of color and optic manipulation. Furthermore, implementations of the present invention provide methods for applying texture in an efficient, uniform manner. | 09-06-2012 |
20120196085 | FORMING RESIN SUBSTRATES USING DYE SUBLIMATION AND SUBSTRATES FORMED USING THE SAME - Implementations of the present invention relate generally to methods, systems, and apparatus for manufacturing aesthetically pleasing, resin-based sheets including color and/or multi-decorated images. In particular, at least one implementation includes subjecting at least one surface of a polymer sheet to uniform heat and pressure in order to sublimate a dye into the surface, and ensure that that polymer sheet is not warped or otherwise damaged during processing. Additional implementations include decorative architectural resin panels including a resin sheet having a dye sublimated into one or more surfaces in order to create an effect of depth or other aesthetic. | 08-02-2012 |
20120193502 | MODULAR PANEL MOUNTING SYSTEMS - A variable angle panel mounting system can include at least one variable-angle panel mounting member, which in turn includes an elongate support member and an angularly-adjustable mounting plate adapted to secure an end of the elongate support member to a plurality of mounting surface angles. In some embodiments, the variable angle panel mounting system may also include a pressure-fit mounting system. These components can provide the ability to angularly and vertically adjust the variable-angle panel mounting member between opposing support surfaces. | 08-02-2012 |
20120193028 | MULTIVARIATE COLOR SYSTEM WITH TEXTURE APPLICATION - Implementations of the present invention relate to a translucent and/or transparent polymer-based panel system that incorporates multi-colored insert layers that enable manipulation of color, transparency or light transmission of the finished panel system. Implementations of the present invention also relate to the construction of such panels to avoid the capture and retention of air within the panels through the use of textured surfaces at the lamination interfaces. In addition, implementations of the present invention provide a method of quantifying the optical response achieved in a given panel system and describes types of construction that enable the multiplicity of color and optic manipulation. Furthermore, implementations of the present invention provide methods for applying texture in an efficient, uniform manner. | 08-02-2012 |
20120181402 | ADJUSTABLE BUSHING ASSEMBLIES, PANEL MOUNTING SYSTEMS, AND METHODS - Adjustable bushing assemblies for mounting panels to a support surface include an upper bushing and a lower bushing. The upper bushing is configured to be secured to the lower bushing and prevent over tightening of a fastener secured through the upper and lower bushings. In addition, systems of at least one implementation of the present invention include a plurality of panels mounted to one or more support surfaces using one or more adjustable bushing assemblies. | 07-19-2012 |
20120117896 | ARCHITECTURAL PANELS WITH ORGANIC PHOTOVOLTAIC INTERLAYERS AND METHODS OF FORMING THE SAME - A method of making a photovoltaic panel includes previously preparing one or more pre-formed substrates with a first temperature and pressure to be non-planar, textured, embossed, colored, or combinations thereof. A manufacturer can then prepare a laminate assembly comprising one or more organic photovoltaic components one or more pre-formed substrates, and a barrier layer with one or more thermally-activated thermoplastic tie layers there between. The manufacturer can then finish the photovoltaic panel lamination by subjecting the assembly to a second set of temperatures and pressures sufficient to activate and bond the pre-formed substrate, barrier layer, and photovoltaic components without significantly softening the pre-formed substrates or otherwise degrading/damaging the organic photovoltaic components. A non-planar panel made by this method can be used in both exterior and interior decorative and/or structural applications where electrical generation is desired. | 05-17-2012 |
20120112034 | PANEL MOUNTING SYSTEM - In general, implementations of the present invention include devices, systems, and components for mounting and/or displaying panels and panel structures with one or more post modules. The post modules, according to the present invention, can include a post, which can secure one or more panels, and covers that can conceal the post from view. Additionally, the post modules can have hollow channels between the covers and the post, which can house wires, cords, lighting elements, and other components. | 05-10-2012 |
20120110788 | FRONT-LOADABLE TRACK MOUNTING SYSTEMS - A front-loadable track mounting system can include a track and mounting nut. The mounting nut and track can include corresponding features that allow a user to insert the mounting nut into a front opening in the track, and selectively lock the mounting nut in a desired position along the track. For example, the track can include opposing rails extending into the front opening of the track. The mounting nut can include that one or more ribs configured to rotate against the opposing rails of the track, and thereby, rotatably lock the mounting nut relative to the track. | 05-10-2012 |
20120102840 | SLIDING PARTITION FASTENERS - A compact fastener configured to latch a sliding partition to a second structure can include an actuator configured to move a hook in and out of a locked position. In one or more implementations, compact fastener can further include a pin extending from the actuator into a slot in the hook. As the actuator rotates, the pin can slide along the groove causing the hook to rotate. Additionally, in one or more implementations, the actuator can rotate about a first axis, and the hook can rotate about a second axis offset from the first axis. The fastener can further include one or more of a latch handle and a lock configured to rotate the actuator. The lock can include a dowel pin that extends into a groove of the actuator. | 05-03-2012 |
20120097317 | MULTIVARIATE COLOR SYSTEM WITH TEXTURE APPLICATION - Implementations of the present invention relate to a translucent and/or transparent polymer-based panel system that incorporates multi-colored insert layers that enable manipulation of color, transparency or light transmission of the finished panel system. Implementations of the present invention also relate to the construction of such panels to avoid the capture and retention of air within the panels through the use of textured surfaces at the lamination interfaces. In addition, implementations of the present invention provide a method of quantifying the optical response achieved in a given panel system and describes types of construction that enable the multiplicity of color and optic manipulation. Furthermore, implementations of the present invention provide methods for applying texture in an efficient, uniform manner. | 04-26-2012 |
20120088042 | ARCHITECTURAL PANELS WITH OBJECTS EMBEDDED IN RESIN INTERLAYER - A decorative architectural glass panel comprises a two or more glass sheets separated by a resin in which one or more decorative objects are suspended. A method of making the glass panel comprises positioning one or more spacers and one or more decorative objects on a first glass sheet, placing a second glass sheet about the first glass sheet, sealing the edges of the first glass sheet and second glass sheet, and filling the space between the first and second glass sheets with a curable liquid resin. The resin can be poured using a substantially horizontal pour in order to keep the decorative objects from substantially shifting when pouring the liquid resin. The resin can also be poured in combination with a vacuum force. In some implementations, the glass panel may also be substituted with a resin panel using polymeric resin sheets. | 04-12-2012 |
20120031008 | SLIDING PANEL SYSTEM - A roller door system includes one or more sets of rollers configured to mount to a panel frame member on an upper end of a panel, and move through a complementary upper guide. A lower side of the panel frame can also be guided through one or more bottom tracks. These components, when coupled with the resin panel, can provide the ability to provide a smooth gliding motion for the resin panel door. In addition, the frame in which the panel is mounted can be configured with one or more components to accommodate the unique expansion and contraction properties of resin materials, and thus allow a stable, long term mounting solution. The upper guide and the lower track can also be configured with one or more components or mechanisms for pitch adjustment, as well as to adjust for uneven or irregular mounting surfaces. | 02-09-2012 |
20120020112 | LIGHT BOXES WITH UNIFORM LIGHT DISTRIBUTION - Light boxes for uniformly illuminating panels include a frame that supports one or more translucent panels. The light boxes further include a light source positioned within the light box. Example light sources can include fluorescent bulbs, incandescent lights, and/or light-emitting-diodes. In at least one implementation, a manufacturer positions a relatively limited number of light sources aimed and/or positioned in a particular way to uniformly distribute light throughout the light box and evenly across the translucent panels such that there are no shadows, hot spots or other non-uniform light patterns on the translucent panels. | 01-26-2012 |
20110226424 | MULTIVARIATE COLOR SYSTEM WITH TEXTURE APPLICATION - Implementations of the present invention relate to a translucent and/or transparent polymer-based panel system that incorporates multi-colored insert layers that enable manipulation of color, transparency or light transmission of the finished panel system. Implementations of the present invention also relate to the construction of such panels to avoid the capture and retention of air within the panels through the use of textured surfaces at the lamination interfaces. In addition, implementations of the present invention provide a method of quantifying the optical response achieved in a given panel system and describes types of construction that enable the multiplicity of color and optic manipulation. Furthermore, implementations of the present invention provide methods for applying texture in an efficient, uniform manner. | 09-22-2011 |
20110214379 | PANEL MOUNTING COMPONENTS, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS - Panel mounting components and systems for mounting objects, such as decorative architectural resin panels, can include one or more of a twist-lock mounting assembly and a melt-bondable panel mounting bracket. Twist-lock mounting assemblies can include a housing and locking pin configured to automatically lock together, thereby allowing a user to quickly and easily mount and dismount panels from a support structure. Melt-bondable panel mounting brackets can include one or more bonding features configured to be pressed into a resin-based panel, thereby allowing additional components, such as a twist-lock mounting assembly, to be secured directly to a single side of a panel. | 09-08-2011 |
20110203747 | PIVOTING WEDGE PANEL MOUNTING ASSEMBLIES AND SYSTEMS - A panel mounting system configured to securely mount a panel to a support structure includes a channel and a pivoting wedge assembly. The pivoting wedge assembly is configured to selectively lock a panel to the channel. In one or more implementations, the pivoting wedge assembly is configured to automatically rotate between a released position and a locked position. | 08-25-2011 |
20110147555 | VARIABLE LENGTH STANDOFF ASSEMBLY - A variable length standoff assembly is configured to mount one or more portions of one or more panels to a frame or support structure, regardless of curvature or angling in the given panel or frame. The variable length standoff assembly includes a connector bar to which one or more variable length standoffs can be attached. Each variable length standoff includes a standoff barrel and adjustable extender to which a manufacturer can attach a portion of a given panel via a mounting cap. Each variable length standoff can be rotated about the connector bar, and can be extended or shortened to a wide range of lengths. In one implementation, a variable length standoff can also be configured to rotate with respect to the connector bar in at least two planes, thereby providing additional degrees of freedom for attaching variously curved and/or differentially orientated panels to a support structure. | 06-23-2011 |
20110121152 | LOW-PROFILE FASTENER ASSEMBLIES, PANEL MOUNTING SYSTEMS, AND METHODS - Low-profile fastener assemblies for mounting objects, such as decorative architectural resin panels, to a support structure at a standoff include a standoff barrel, threaded rod, and low-profile cap. The low-profile cap can have a curved profile configured to reduce its height while also allowing for one or more separated recesses to be formed therein. Implementations of the present invention also include a cap key configured to engage the one or more separated recesses of the low-profile cap for use in tightening the low-profile cap onto the threaded rod. In addition, one implementations of the present invention include systems having a plurality of panels mounted to one or more support structures using one or more low-profile fastener assemblies. | 05-26-2011 |
20110120640 | EFFICIENT LAMINATION PRESS WITH FLEXIBLE PLATENS - An efficient lamination presses can rapidly provide both heating and cooling, as well as pressure to resin sheets to create a laminate end-product. Specifically, an efficient lamination press can comprise one or more components and apparatus that can apply uniform fluid pressure across one or more platens. The one or more platens, in turn, can flex about one or more contours in a layup assembly. For example, an exemplary platen can comprise a plurality of coupled platen extensions, which can flex or otherwise adjust about each other to help create flexibility in the platen, and thus, uniform pressure across a laminate assembly. | 05-26-2011 |
20110120639 | EFFICIENT LAMINATION PRESS WITH RADIANT HEATING - An efficient lamination presses can rapidly heat and precisely control the temperature of a laminate assembly to create final products with excellent structural and aesthetic properties. Specifically, an efficient lamination press can include a radiant heating assembly. The radiant heating assemblies can uniformly heat one or more platens using radiation. The platens in turn can comprise material having a high thermal conductivity, which can allow them to quickly transfer heat to a laminate assembly. The platens can further comprise one or more fluid channels that enable rapid cooling. The rapid heating and cooling capability can enable fast processing times for laminate panels at much lower energy levels than with conventional presses. | 05-26-2011 |
20110114270 | COLLAPSIBLE LIGHT-WEIGHT PERFORATED PARTITION - A semi-private partition or covering includes a collapsible structure having a plurality of uniform perforations formed therein. The plurality of uniform perforations can be configured in size, shape, and dimension to provide not only aesthetic but functional differences from one partition to the next. A manufacturer can make a partition by forming a collapsible structure, such as by bonding a plurality of elongate cells along a plurality of different horizontal seams. The manufacturer can then position a plurality of cutout apparatus about the structure and apply the cutout apparatus to create hollow perforations passing through the entire depth of the collapsible structure (e.g., when expanded). The partition can be mounted to a top or side support structure for any combination of vertical or horizontal expansion/contraction of the partition. | 05-19-2011 |
20110064539 | COUNTERSUNK FASTENER ASSEMBLIES, PANEL MOUNTING SYSTEMS, AND METHODS - Washer assemblies for mounting panels to a support without damaging the panels include a countersunk washer and a sleeve. In one implementation, the washer assemblies are configured to at least partially prevent the formation of hoop stresses within a panel, and uniformly transmit forces created by a fastener to a panel. The washer assemblies can be configured to enhance the function, look, feel, or aesthetic of a panel system. In addition, systems of at least one implementation of the present invention include a plurality of panels mounted to one or more supports using one or more washer assemblies and methods of mounting such systems. | 03-17-2011 |
20100320340 | MELT-BONDABLE PANEL MOUNTING BRACKETS, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS - Panel mounting components and systems for mounting objects, such as decorative architectural resin panels, can include a melt-bondable panel mounting bracket. Melt-bondable panel mounting brackets can include one or more bonding features configured to be pressed or rotated into a resin-based panel, thereby allowing additional components, such as a twist-lock mounting assembly, to be secured directly to a single side of a panel. Methods of securing melt-bondable panel mounting brackets to a resin panel can include rotating the melt-bondable panel mounting brackets at high speeds of rotation to cause a portion of the resin panel to melt and bond about the melt-bondable panel mounting brackets. | 12-23-2010 |
20100279030 | ARCHITECTURAL PANELS WITH EMBEDDED OBJECTS - A decorative architectural glass panel comprises a two or more glass sheets separated by a resin in which one or more decorative objects are suspended. A method of making the glass panel comprises positioning one or more spacers and one or more decorative objects on a first glass sheet, placing a second glass sheet about the first glass sheet, sealing the edges of the first glass sheet and second glass sheet, and filling the space between the first and second glass sheets with a curable liquid resin. The resin can be poured using a substantially horizontal pour in order to keep the decorative objects from substantially shifting when pouring the liquid resin. The resin can also be poured in combination with a vacuum force. In some implementations, the glass panel may also be substituted with a resin panel using polymeric resin sheets. | 11-04-2010 |
20100153234 | VIEWING AND ORDERING CUSTOMIZED RESIN PANELS THROUGH WEB-BASED INTERFACES - A web-enabled resin panel customization website, hosted through a web portal, provides, through a client computer system, one or more user interfaces configured to receive a plurality of user selections, and provide a realistic display of the resulting output. In one implementation, a processing module overlays transparent portions of images representing a translucent resin substrate with one or more images representing decorative objects, films, or the like. The processing module can also combine pixel information from each of the added/overlain layers. In either case, the processing module sends a combined pixel data stream that can be rendered by a client system, and thus provide a user with a realistic depiction of the user's resin panel selections. The customization website further includes one or more user interfaces that enable a user to store specific resin panel design profiles, and order resin panels corresponding to those specific design profiles. | 06-17-2010 |
20100143662 | ARCHITECTURAL RESIN PANELS WITH TRANSLUCENT VENEER LAYERS - Implementations of the present invention relate aesthetically pleasing decorative architectural resin panels having a thin or brittle veneer layer, such as thinly sliced natural wood or stone. In particular, at least one implementation includes a flat or curved decorative resin panel made with a natural wood veneer layer whose structural integrity has been maintained despite being subject to various heats and pressures. The resulting resin panel is at least partially translucent, and allows for a unique display both of the resin sheets used to form the panel and of the thin wood materials encapsulated therein. Additional implementations relate to the use of other brittle veneer layers, such as translucent stone, translucent metals, or the like, which also provide unique, decorative architectural, aesthetic features. | 06-10-2010 |
20090305072 | TWISTED PANEL AND APPARATUS FOR MAKING OR MOUNTING SAME - A twisted resin panel includes resin material that has been heated and twisted after being subject to heat and/or pressure. In one implementation, a manufacturer can clamp opposing ends of a resin panel, such as a panel comprising a one or more layers thermoformed together. The manufacturer can then elevate the resin panel, and twist at least one end of the resin panel to achieve a desired aesthetic. Upper securing means (e.g., vertical clamps, rig hardware) at the upper end of the resin panel can be configured to move up or down during the twist of the resin panel in order to accommodate length variations thereof. Upon twisting, the resin panel will then cool into the desired position, and thus be used for any number of decorative architectural purposes. Implementations of the invention further include means to mount a twisted panel to upper and lower support surfaces. | 12-10-2009 |
20090197058 | MULTIVARIATE COLOR SYSTEM WITH TEXTURE APPLICATION - Implementations of the present invention relate to a translucent and/or transparent polymer-based panel system that incorporates multi-colored insert layers that enable manipulation of color, transparency or light transmission of the finished panel system. Implementations of the present invention also relate to the construction of such panels to avoid the capture and retention of air within the panels through the use of textured surfaces at the lamination interfaces. In addition, implementations of the present invention provide a method of quantifying the optical response achieved in a given panel system and describes types of construction that enable the multiplicity of color and optic manipulation. Furthermore, implementations of the present invention provide methods for applying texture in an efficient, uniform manner. | 08-06-2009 |