Air permeable material vacuum forming process for production of preforms for internal vehicle panels involves two stage preforming using a tool shell, then vacuum forming under an impermeable cover

摘要

A heated air permeable material(22) is thermoformed onto a tool punch(12) to form a basic preform. A tool shell(24) forming part of the outer contor of the component is then placed on top of the material to press material below it onto the punch. A flexible air impermeable cover(20) is then draped over the shell and the remainder of the exposed material. Vacuum is produced between the tool punch and the flexible cover to draw the material closely onto the punch before demolding. An independent claim is also included for the process equipment which includes a vacuum forming unit with an air permeable punch(12), a material clamping frame(14), a tool shell(24) covering part of the vacuum forming tool and a flexible air impermeable cover(20).