System and process for shot-injection molding an eyeglass temple with a wire core

摘要

A system and process for making an eyeglass temple co-injection molded with a wire core are disclosed. An eyeglass temple is produced by injecting a first shot of temple substrate material into a mold followed by the shot injection of a portion of wire core into the substrate material while it is still molten or semi-molten followed by a second shot injection of additional molten or semi-molten material to completely fill the mold. The first shot of template substrate is provided in a viscosity and amount sufficient to support the wire core without contact by the mold or external support, and the second shot is provided in an amount sufficient to completely fill and pack the mold and lessen shrinkage problems during substrate cooling and hardening. This produces an eyeglass temple in a desired configuration having an entirely encased wire core. Optionally, a second material can then be overmolded onto portions of the temple. The first material and reinforcing core allow greater adjustability and increased comfort for the wearer, while the second material can either be softer to provide a more comfortable fit and feel or can be similar to the first material to improve the temple's aesthetics.