Patents for April 2024
Patent as compiled by the editors of RW for April 2024 Tire sidewall toughness index methodU.S. patent: 11,781,945Issued: October 10,
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Huntsman launches new SHOKLESS polyurethane systems for electric vehicle batteries
SHOKLESS™ polyurethane systems are generally compatible with a number of different manufacturing methods such as open- and closed-pour (injection) and cold-cure molding. Certain products in the range can also be dispensed with high pressure equipment. Huntsman also offers simulation and modeling capabilities that can help customers customize and optimize processing parameters, and the structural and thermal performance of the materials, so they can get the very best out of the SHOKLESS™ system they select.
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ACE Laboratories completes installation of its new wiper blade testing system
ACE Laboratories has announced another new testing capability. This latest addition provides the ability to test and analyze windshield wiper blades and wipe systems.
The custom engineered testing system allows ACE to include energy consumption analysis as part of the testing protocol in addition to traditional durability analysis. ACE’s testing system also allows for customization to nearly all windshield types with angle and pressure controls to ensure testing is completed according to OEM specifications.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency issues new rules for chloroprene emissions
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued a final rule that will significantly reduce toxic air pollution from chemical plants, including ethylene oxide and chloroprene. Once implemented, the rule will reduce both EtO and chloroprene emissions from covered processes and equipment by nearly 80%. A requirement for these facilities to conduct fence line monitoring for key toxic chemicals is included, and EPA will make the data publicly available to better inform and safeguard nearby communities.
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Harvard researchers increase fatigue threshold of reinforced rubber
Researchers from the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) have increased the fatigue threshold of particle-reinforced rubber, developing a new, multiscale approach that allows the material to bear high loads and resist crack growth over repeated use. This approach could not only increase the longevity of rubber products such as tires but also reduce the amount of pollution from rubber particles shed during use.
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Continental wins CMF Design Award 2023 for door panel concept
Continental has combined its functional surface solutions in a compact model. In the so-called Door Panel Concept, the technology company makes its diverse surface expertise visible and tangible in the form of a door panel consisting of five different functional surfaces. The Door Pancel Concept has not only been well received by customers, it was also recently honored with the CMF Design Award 2023 in Shenzhen, China. The prestigious award is presented by a jury of international experts for outstanding achievements in color, material and finish. Elements of the SPACE D design concept, which was presented for the first time at the IAA MOBILITY 2023, can also be found in the new model. In the SPACE D, Continental combines the functions of living, driving and working in an interior oasis concept.
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Vibracoustic’s breakthrough air suspension delivers optimal NVH and dynamics for Audi e-tron GT
Vibracoustic redefines comfort and driving dynamics with advanced three-chamber air springs built in the Audi e-tron GT. The air springs use a complex design with build in safety features and silent valve switching for the air chambers, all while securing comfort and driving dynamics.
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Cabot Corporation launches PROPEL E8 engineered reinforcing carbon black
Cabot Corporation announced the global launch of its new PROPEL® E8 engineered reinforcing carbon black designed to provide superior tread durability at low rolling resistance for high-performance tire tread applications. This new product addresses the unique challenges posed by the heavier weight and higher torque of electric vehicles (EVs) compared to traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. The PROPEL E8 grade complements Cabot’s existing solutions within the PROPEL E series, which are also suitable for use in high-performance tires.
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Utilization of AI driven solutions for rubber compound formulation: A practical approach
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into various industrial sectors has spurred remarkable progress in the field of manufacturing process development. This concept has been extended to polymer compound formulations, where AI techniques have been used to optimize rubber formulations as well. Furthermore, it is conceivable that mixtures of other polymers, such as TPEs, thermoplastic materials or polyurethane compounds, could be similarly treated. Advantages of employing AI driven tools include reduced development time, enhanced efficiency and increased accuracy.
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Custom compounding with Spherix aluminosilicate microspheres
Spherix manufactures post-industrial recycled aluminosilicate ceramic microspheres with a mean particle size of 3-4 μm. The solid, incompressible spheres mechanically facilitate ingredient dispersion, processing speed and improved surface quality within a wide variety of polymer systems during both mastication and downstream processing. They promote flow and can reduce the need for conventional lubricants depending on the compound. Spherix is a registered trademark of Spherix.
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