Patent Awarded
for Structural and Optical Applications for Shape  Memory
Polymers (SMP)
A patent was awarded on January 17, 2006 as
a result of an idea brainstormed by two of CRG's engineers,
Dr. Patrick Hood and D. Ernest Havens. The concept
was researched, tested and demonstrated through several programs
at CRG. The patent is the first in a series covering the use
of shape memory polymers in composite manufacturing, rapid
manufacturing, and composite repair.
Abstract of the patent: "The methods
of manufacturing molds from shape memory materials and molds
made thereby, in accordance with the present invention, provide
numerous advantages for molding castable composite parts.
The initial mold cost is low enough to accommodate economical
productions of as few as a single part incorporating high
surface definition and intricate three dimensional detail.
The preferred methods and molds made thereby are transparent,
thereby, curing of the corresponding part by ultraviolet and
infrared light is made possible, as well as inspection during
injection and curing of the given resin. Removal of the cured
part from within the mold is simplified." Patent No.
US 6,986,855 B1. (1-2-2006)
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