(1) Processes for molding, casting, or shaping of nonmetallic
materials to produce articles.
(2) Liquid or melt comminuting of materials other than glass
or metal.
(3) Uniting or compacting of bulk or randomly assembled particles.
(4) Furnace Lining or repair.
(5) Melt shaping in the absence of a mold or shaping surface,
e.g., spheroidizing of particles.
(6) Working or treatment of nonmetallic materials not otherwise
provided for.
GENERAL STATEMENT OF CLASS SUBJECT MATTER
(1) This is a generic class for processes for molding, casting
or the plastic shaping, not provided for in any other class, of
miscellaneous nonmetallic materials to make or reproduce articles
of a definite shape, or the shaping and embossing of sheets of miscellaneous
nonmetallic materials, not otherwise provided for.
The common property of plasticity renders molding operations
of chief importance in this class.
Where there exists an art class that can properly include all
operations preliminary to a broad molding step, such operations,
unless otherwise specified will be classified in such class. Where
significant molding steps are combined with any other operations,
the patents claiming such combinations, unless otherwise provided
for will be included in this class and cross-referenced into the other
class or classes involved. Note the lines between this class and
other classes as set out below.
Where there is no class which could include such operations,
the entire preparation of the material is included in this class,
but only those are included in which the preliminary operations
are performed for the purpose of preparing the material for molding.
See the search notes below and the references to other classes
for the shaping of specific materials, e.g., paper, sugar, tobacco,
etc.
This class will take processes under the class definition, and
where not otherwise specifically provided for, in which normally
liquid materials are encapsulated. In general, this class will
provide for processes in which the covering, encompassing or encasing
material is formed or shaped from material in a fluent state.
(2) This is the generic class for processes, not elsewhere provided
for, for shaping of material by a comminution or disintegration
thereof from a molten or liquid state, wherein the cohesive nature
of the material, per se, especially in the comminuted state during
solidification thereof influences the shape or configuration of
the discrete particles or elements formed. See subclass 5 and the
notes thereto for the lines with other classes. For liquid comminution
of glass or other vitreous materials and for comminution of liquid
metal, see References to Other Classes, below.
(3) The uniting of bulk assembled particulate material either
autogenously (see specific references to glass particles and metal
particles below) or with added binder or adhesive in a mold or on
a shaping surface are included herein, except those processes in
which the mold constitutes nothing more than a depository and the
particulate material charge is not disclosed to be shaped by said mold
or depository prior to heating but changes its bulk shape only on
fusion or melting to assume the configuration of said depository.
See Lines With Other Classes below, with regard to mold filling
or charging.
This class has been made the generic home for methods of compacting
and briquetting bulk deposited or handled powdered or particulate
matter usually predicated on the production of an interfacial bond
between the individual particles. However, see References to Other Classes
below for classes that take (1) agglomerating from finely divided
solid nonmetallic, inorganic elements, e.g., carbon, wherein no
binder, per se, is employed; (2) compacting by mechanical interlock
such as results from a baling operation; and (3) mechanical forming
of a distilland combined with a thermolytic distilling operation.
This class (264) will accommodate such subject matter only
where the resulting compact tends to hold its shape as the result
of an interfacial bond between adjacent particles of the mass.
Since powder, granules and dust are not characterized by projecting
portions which could facilitate a bonding by mechanical interlock,
a disclosure or claim restricted to such types of particulate material
is regarded as evidence that the product is rendered self-sustaining
by interfacial bonding.
With regard to glass particle uniting, in particular, a patent
reciting placing of glass particles other than glass fibers or mineral
wool in their final position in a mold, followed by autogenous uniting
or sintering or fusion in the configuration or shape imparted by
said mold, will be classified in this class (264) whether or not
said particles are disclosed to maintain their individual identities to
any degree. See References to Other Classes, below, for for processes
including a glass working step as therein defined, and for the line
where glass fibers or mineral wool are placed onto a mold surface
which fibers or mineral wool particles are heated on or subsequent
to contact with the surface to fuse the particles with each other.
4) This class will be considered generic to processes for furnace
lining formation or repair. (See Subclass References to the Current
Class, below.)
5) This class will take shaping of molten materials where
no mold or molding surface, per se, is employed, e. g., spheroidizing
or rounding of particles, see this class, subclass 15 and the notes
thereto.
6) This class will take treatment of nonmetallic materials
not otherwise provided for. See the notes to Lines With Other Classes, "Treatment
of Shaped Articles," and Subclass References to the Current
Class, below. Patents disclosing working, mulling or kneading, per
se, of plastic materials will go to this class except where specific
materials are recited.
Unless otherwise provided for, the recitation in a claim of
a significant molding step will bring a patent to this class. Significant
molding operations include named injection molding, centrifugal
casting, slush casting, casting of fluids on a forming surface to
form a sheet or web, "spinning" into a specifically
named bath as set out below, evaporative or solvent extractive "spinning" and combinations
of two or more broad molding or shaping steps and other combinations
as set out herein.
Such terms as "molding", "casting" (used
generically) "extruding", "sheeting" and "forming" are
considered to be merely broad or nominal operations for purposes
of this class.
The intent must also be considered. If, for example, "extruding" is
for discharging material from a chamber in chunks or gobs rather
than for shaping, this is not enough for this class.
The production of "shapes" merely suitable
for handling or bulk shipping, e.g., "sheets" or "sheeting" of
no particular structure will not be considered significant molding
in a, per se, operation. Also, where articles identified by name
only are produced, a process will not be considered significant
for this class unless there are included limitations and/or
modifications unique to molding or shaping said named article.
This class will take combinations of broad molding plus preliminary
physical or mechanical treatment wherein said treatment is disclosed
to perfect the molding.
Patents reciting physical or mechanical treatment subsequent
to a broad molding step, e.g., extruding or "spinning" plus
stretching, casting with removal of solvent from the cast liquid
and heating subsequent to removal of a molded article from the mold
to complete cure or to vulcanize, will be placed in this class.
Nominal return to ambient temperature is not considered to be an
after treatment or a subsequent treatment within the scope outlined
here.
SECTION II - LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS
GENERAL LINES
A process including a Class 264 molding step, combined with
a separate assembly step, which assembly, if claimed, per se, would
be proper for Class 29, is classified in Class 29.
Processes of forming single-crystals combined with simultaneous
shaping are provided for in Class 117, except for the molding of
non-semiconductor metal materials which are found in Class 164,
subclasses 122.1+, also see Class 117 definitions.
A. LINES WITH THE CHEMICAL COMPOSITION CLASSES
(As employed in this section, the term "composition" is intended
to include both mixtures of ingredients and compounds, per se, e.g.,
Classes 106, 208, 252, 423, 424, 520, 585, etc.)
1) Patents limited to process claims reciting a broad or nominal
molding step only.
a) Where a composition, per se, is molded and there is no
disclosure as to a chemical reaction being present, the patent will
go to this class (264).
b) Where a chemical reaction, mixing or blending of ingredients
to form a composition of matter is recited to take place in a mold
or during the molding or shaping step, the patent will go to the
composition class, even if temperature and pressure conditions are
set out.
c) Similarly, where a chemical reaction, mixing or blending
of ingredients to form a composition is recited to take place prior
to the nominal shaping or molding step, the patent will go to the
composition class.
2) Patents containing both composition claims and process
claims reciting nominal molding only.
a) Patents containing both claims to a composition and also
claims reciting broad or nominal molding of said composition will
go with the composition class.
b)Patents containing both claims to a composition and claims
reciting broad or nominal molding of said composition wherein there
is a chemical reaction, blending or mixing of ingredients of said
composition during or prior to the molding step, will go to the
composition class, even if temperature or pressure conditions are
set out.
c) Where patents contain both claims to a composition and
claims reciting a nominal or broad molding of said composition,
per se, and there is no disclosure of any chemical reaction taking
place, and specific temperature and/or pressure conditions
are set out, the patent will go to this class (264).
3) When there is doubt that a chemical reaction, mixing or
blending of ingredients takes place, the burden of proof shall rest
with this class.
4) When there is a significant molding step in a claim reciting
a process for preparation of a composition even where a chemical
reaction is set out, the patent will go to this class (264).
5) This class will take patents reciting the "spinning", e.g.,
the extruding of a settable material through a shaping orifice into
a coagulating bath provided said bath is named or described or at
least one ingredient of said bath is set out. Patents claiming only
a specific setting bath composition will be classified herein in
an appropriate subclass according to the disclosed utility thereof, provided
the only disclosed utility for said setting bath composition is
for such a purpose. See the notes and search notes to this class
(264), subclass 78 with regard to incorporation of a dyeing agent
or color producing reactant in the setting bath.
The recitation of "acidic" bath, per se,
will not be considered sufficient but setting out of a particular
pH or pH range of said "acidic" bath will be deemed
significant for this purpose.
6) Where a claim recites treatment, per se, of articles which
involves a chemical reaction, e.g., vulcanization or polymerization
to final cure, and also includes a particular manipulative or handling
step or specific shape retaining or supporting step, the patent
will be placed in this class; see subclasses 236 and 347 of this
class (264) in particular.
7) Where the treatment, per se, of compositions is a working,
kneading or mulling, see the line set out in this class (264) subclass
349.
8) The process of preparing a ceramic or concrete block which
includes mixing ingredients, shaping broadly and removal from molds
of the shaped bodies followed by firing to fuse or sinter the composition
or treatment with steam will go with the appropriate composition,
e.g., Class 106, even though a particular temperature or pressure
nominally applied is recited. However, the recitation of particular
molding conditions or conditions of firing other than temperature
or pressure such as, for example, use of an inert atmosphere, would
place such process in this class (264). Firing a preform in a controlled
atmosphere is appropriate subject matter for this class (264).
Class 106, Compositions: Coating or Plastic, subclasses 39+ takes
ceramic compositions, per se, and processes for preparation thereof
including firing at specific temperatures for specific time periods.
However, this class (264) takes processes of firing a preform under
certain conditions, see the line as set out in the notes and search notes
to subclasses 603+ of this class (264).
9) See Class 252, Compositions, subclasses 62.51+ and notes
thereto for magnetic compositions and methods for preparation thereof
which do not include a significant molding step.
10) The line between Class 423, Chemistry of Inorganic Compounds,
subclasses 445+ and this class for processes including
both molding and carbonizing is as follows: (a) where significant
molding occurs prior to a step or steps of carbonizing which make
carbon as provided for in Class 423, the process is placed in Class 423,
subclasses 445+ unless the process is recited to produce
an article of sufficient structure to be classified in a class providing
for the structurally defined article (e.g., 428, etc.) in which
latter case the process is placed in this class (e.g., molding a
fiber with enlarged portions on the ends); and (b) where the molding
takes place after carbonizing the line as set forth above in (1)
to (6) will apply.
B. MOLD CHARGING OR FILLING
In general, the combination of a mold filling step plus a significant
molding step will bring a patent to this class. However, the mere
recitation of filling, per se, of a container or a mold with an
incidentally hardenable or settable fluent material will not be
sufficient to bring a patent into this class, unless the container
or mold is set out to have a particular shape or configuration so
as to impart said shape or configuration to the enclosed material, particularly
when said container or mold is subsequently removed or stripped
from the enclosed material. See the definitions and search notes
of Class 141, Fluent Material Handling, With Receiver or Receiver
Coacting Means, particularly in the Class Definition, section III, (3)
and Class 222, Dispensing, sections 8 and 14.
C. GLASS MANUFACTURING
Other than bonding of glass particulate material under conditions
as set out above in the definitions on particle uniting, any working
of glass type materials in the plastic state including liquid comminuting
thereof, pore forming, reshaping, autogenous bonding of glass particles,
etc., will be classifiable in Class 65, Glass Manufacturing, and
reference is made to the definitions of Class 65 for the line between
this class and Class 65.
In general, the following will apply:
A patent disclosing working or treating of named materials
for both this class and Class 65 will be classified in this class
unless the only claimed species is glass or the only specific example
relates to glass in which case the patent will go to Class 65.
A patent claiming a combined process for this class and Class 65
will be classified in Class 65.
Class 65 will take formation of filaments and fibers from
molten vitreous materials, e.g., glass. However, this class (264)
will take processes directed to formation of filaments from siliceous
materials in solution, e.g., silicates by precipitation from said
solution or evaporation of solvent therefrom.
D. ADHESIVE BONDING
Class 156, Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
is the residual home for uniting preforms. This class (264) provides
for uniting plural preforms under at least one of the following
circumstances:
1) At least one of the preforms is reduced to a fluent state
in a mold or confined molding space.
2) Joining preforms and simultaneously reshaping the joint
by plastic flow.
3) Preforms are united by bonding material in which:
a) the preforms are spaced apart and fluent bonding material
is thereafter introduced between them, or
b) fluent bonding material is shaped or retained between spaced
preforms by a mold element, or
c) fluent bonding material is shaped and retained between
preforms by a preform and has means to maintain a predetermined
space between the preforms or
d) the preforms are of porous material, e.g., batts, mats or
woven fabric united in a mold and fluent bonding material is used
in quantity sufficient to fill the mold cavity and interstices of
the porous material.
4) This class (264) provides for uniting running length preforms
united in a die under the limitations of A, B, and C above except
that if running length strands or webs are bonded and sheathed in
a die by a coating operation, i.e., the bonding material is applied
at hydrostatic pressure, the method is provided for in Class 156, Adhesive
Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture.
5) Class 156, Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical
Manufacture, provides for: (a) uniting preforms where one preforms
is forced into another preform, as long as both preforms are unaltered
in shape other than that which results from displacement of material
due to the insertion of the preform. (b) stretching or drawing a
self sustaining sheet into contact with a preform body and uniting
the contacting surfaces. (c) all tire building processes which include
a step of "building" or bringing preformed tire
components into assembled relationship.
E. METAL WORKING OR SHAPING
The general line between this class and the metal working
or shaping classes will be as follows;
1) Where the claims recite deformation of materials broadly,
the disclosure setting out both metals and nonmetals, the patent
will go to the appropriate metal working class.
2) Where the claims are limited to deformation of metals only,
the patent will go to the appropriate metal working class.
3) Where the claims are limited to deformation or shaping
of nonmetals only within the class definition, the patent will go
to this class (264).
4) Where there is a claim drawn to a metal and an equally
comprehensive and mutually exclusive claim drawn to a nonmetal only,
the patent will go to the appropriate metal working class.
5) Where deformation of both a metal and a nonmetal are included
in the same claim, the patent will go to the appropriate metal working
class, e.g., Class 29, Metal Working, depending on the claim as
set out, with plural diverse operations generally going to Class
29.
6) Where the claim is broad or nondefinitive as to material,
the patent will go to the appropriate metal working class, as stated
above, and this will include disclosures of deforming: (A) A laminate
of a metal with a nonmetal; (B) A "composite material" such
as a metal - nonmetal article or workpiece except where by disclosure
only the nonmetal component is deformed or shaped.
7) Where a process as set out above and not otherwise coming
to this class is concerned and which involves plural diverse operations,
the patent will go to Class 29 or a successor class except where
subordinate classes could provide for certain diverse operations.
8) Where a patent recites casting or shaping of metal mold
together with the use of said mold in shaping materials, e.g., synthetic
resins, the combination will be considered classifiable in this
class (264).
F. COATING
1) Coating, per se, Processes of coating, per se, are classified
in Class 427, Coating Processes, if not more specifically provided
for elsewhere. Two species of coating, per se, are provided for
in this class (264). (1) Furnace lining formation or repair by
a coating process is provided for in Class 264, subclass 30. (2)
The formation of pipe coating by troweling is provided for in Class
264, appropriate subclasses.
2) Coating and Shaping Distinguished Processes of coating,
per se, may be distinguished from processes of shaping, per se,
by application of the following guides:
a) The claimed process of applying a fluent material to a self-sustaining
body supported by a disclosure that upon setting of the fluent material
the self-sustaining body is to be separated (e.g., stripped) therefrom
to form from said fluent material an article intended for subsequent use,
is considered shaping and not coating. In the absence of any clear
disclosure of separating the process constitutes coating, per se.
A claimed process directed to contacting a base with a fluent material
but supported by a disclosure of both stripping and nonstripping
is originally classified as directed to a process of coating, per
se, and is cross-referenced to this class (264). Contacting a base
with a fluent material combined with the claimed step of stripping
is a shaping process.
b) The process of applying a fluent material to a self-sustaining
base in which the extent of lateral displacement of the fluent material
is determined by a dam or retaining wall is considered shaping and
not coating. The retaining wall may either unite with the fluent
material to form a composite article or may be independent of the
article formed. The application of fluent material to a base uniting
therewith to form a layered article which base is of such configuration
that it could serve as a retaining wall but does not actually so
function, is considered a process of coating and not shaping.
c) The line with regard to shaping a layer of material about
an indefinite length preform as it advances through a shaping orifice
is as follows: Class 264 provides for advancing a preform through
an orifice and simultaneously and positively forcing shaping material through
said orifice so as to shape the material around the preform as it
issues from the orifice. Class 427 provides for drawing a preform
through a coating material and then through a shaping orifice to
shape the coating material adhering to the preform.
d) Where a patent contains a claim for a process, of Class
264 and an equally comprehensive claim of Class 427 the patent shall
be assigned to Class 427 and cross referenced to Class 264.
3) Coating and Shaping Combined.
a) Processes including shaping or molding followed by a significant
coating procedure where the mere fact of molding or shaping a body
is claimed are construed as processes of coating previously shaped
bodies and are classified as processes of coating, per se.
b) Processes of forming pipe coatings combined with troweling
are included in this class (264).
c) See this class (264), subclass 129, Note (1), for a discussion
of shaping and coating combinations not included in a) or b).
4) Coating and Firing Combined Processes including the combination
of firing and coating, regardless of the sequence of the respective
steps, are classified in Class 427.
G. ARTICLES
This class does not take patents having article claims. Specific
articles are classified with the respective arts to which they apply.
Articles of specific configuration or structure produced by methods
of this class, of plastic materials within the class definition,
and of no particular art used or form which would be otherwise classified, e.g.,
stock materials, are provided for in Class 428 Stock Material or
Miscellaneous Articles. Articles of no significant structure, identifiable
otherwise by the chemical structure, identifiable otherwise by the
chemical structure or composition thereof, per se, are classifiable
with the compound or composition. Composite articles produced by
the methods of this class may be analogous in structure to those
produced by coating or laminating procedures and Class 428, Stock
Material or Miscellaneous Articles, is pertinent thereto.
H. TREATMENT OF SHAPED ARTICLES
This class will take miscellaneous treatments, per se, of shaped
nonmetallic articles unless said treatment is otherwise provided
for in a proper functional art class. See this class (264) subclass
340 and the notes and search notes thereto and to the indented subclasses.
I. FOR PROCESSES OF MOLDING OR SHAPING OTHER SPECIFIC ARTICLES
OR MATERIALS IN CLASSES NOT SET OUT ABOVE, MISCELLANEOUS SEARCH
NOTES, AND INDEX TO CLASSES REFERRED TO ABOVE:
See References to Other Classes, below.
J. HAZARDOUS OR TOXIC WASTE CONTAINMENT
See References to Other Classes, below.
K. CLATHRATES AND INTERCALATES
Clathrates and intercalates (inclusion compounds), per se,
are classified hierarchically and subject to the limitations set
forth in the compound (element) classes based both on the encapsulant
and encapsulate. For example, a clathrate of urea and hydrogen
peroxide is classified in Class 564, subclass 32, urea and an organic
compound in Class 564, subclass 1.5, dextran and iodine in Class 536,
subclass 112, etc. Where a patent does not state that a material
is either a clathrate or an intercalate, the assumption is made
that the material is either a coated or encapsulated product classified
in Class 428, subclasses 402+.
SECTION III - SUBCLASS REFERENCES TO THE CURRENT CLASS
for processes under the class definition which include
a step of twining, braiding, plying or twisting multiple elements
about each other or the step of textile fabric formation.
340+ and 349, see the notes for treatment
of nonmetallic materials not otherwise provided for. See particularly
the notes to subclass 349 for patents disclosing working, mulling
or kneading, per se, of plastic materials will go to this class
except where specific materials are recited.
Boot and Shoe Making, for the making of shoes from preformed sheets or
blanks and processes of making shoes involving one or more of the
following operations recited broadly; molding, casting, vulcanizing.
Textiles: Fiber Preparation,
subclasses 144+ as the generic home for bringing fibers together either
with relation to each other or with some other material.
Chemistry: Analytical and Physical Processes,
subclasses 313+ take agglomerating from finely divided solid nonmetallic,
inorganic elements, e.g., carbon, wherein no binder, per se, is
employed.
Drying and Gas or Vapor Contact With Solids, for processes of drying of organic and inorganic
plastic materials, per se. Generally the combination of forming
by a Class 264 operation and drying is classified in Class 264 except where
a filament is formed by a spinning operation which is not significantly
claimed and the product dried in a significantly claimed manner,
which operation is provided for in Class 34.
Fuel and Related Compositions,
subclasses 550+ for a solid fuel consolidation or shaping process
which goes beyond mere molding of a starting composition, especially
subclasses 596+ for a process which includes pressing using
a specified condition or technique.
Static Structures (e.g., Buildings), for various molding processes there provided for and see the
notes to
subclass 31 of Class 264 for the line between these classes.
Package Making,
subclasses 452+ for processes of shaping preformed material to
form a receptacle and subsequently filling. This class (264) provides
for processes wherein a cover material, i.e., primary encompassing
or encasing material, is shaped from a material in a fluent or nonpreformed
plastic state preliminarily to or simultaneously with a packaging
operation; where a laminating step, e.g., cut seaming, is included
in any stage of this indicated procedure, the process is provided
for in Class 156, Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture.
The formation of cover adjuncts, as defined in that class (53),
by a molding operation is provided for Class 53, subclasses 410+ (in
particular, see subclass 423).
Textiles: Spinning, Twisting, and Twining,
subclass 362 for twining and twisting of filaments and fibers,
per se. See Subclass References to the Current Class, above.
Refrigeration, for processes involving solidifying a fluid by cooling
and molding which are peculiar to forming an ice (H2O or CO2) product
and utilizing a liquid as the raw material. See this class,
subclass 604 for other molding processes including a step of
cooling the molded material to below 0°C.
Glass Manufacturing, for liquid comminution of glass or other vitreous
materials, and for processes including a glass working step as therein
defined, and Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class in Class
65 for the line where glass fibers or mineral wool are placed onto
a mold surface which fibers or mineral wool particles are heated
on or subsequent to contact with the surface to fuse the particles with
each other.
Specialized Metallurgical Processes, Compositions
for Use Therein, Consolidated Metal Powder Compositions, and Loose
Metal Particulate Mixtures,
subclasses 331+ for comminution of liquid metal.
Specialized Metallurgical Processes, Compositions
for Use Therein, Consolidated Metal Powder Compositions, and Loose
Metal Particulate Mixtures, for pertinent subclass (es) as determined by schedule
rewiew.
Cutting, for processes of, per se, cutting, severing, or
incising. Cutting of a material with reshaping flow of the material
is provided for in this class (264); although a disclosure of an inherent
flow of material in the act of cutting, is not considered sufficient
shaping for inclusion in this class. See the notes to Class 83, Class
Definition, B, Cutting of green ceramic, earthenware, or cemetitious
preformed material, with or without reshaping the material, is provided
for in this class (264).
Presses,
subclasses 35+ for processes for compressing various materials
there provided for to form compacts of smaller volume. The shaping
of materials to produce articles by molecular flow is generically
in this class (264) where the materials are nonmetallic. Class
100 takes compacting by mechanical interlock, such as a bailing
operation.
Tobacco, appropriate subclasses, for shaping tobacco products and
see especially
subclasses 77+ for processes for molding or otherwise forming
tobacco in the manufacture of cigarettes and cigars.
Woodworking,
subclass 358 for processes for impressing, indenting or raising-in-relief
for ornamentation of wood materials, and subclasses 349 and 381
for processes for bending wood.
Paper Making and Fiber Liberation, for processes of forming an interfelted fibrous
product by deposition from a liquid suspension and also processes
of fiber liberation. Shaping or reshaping of a fibrous water laid
product which is still wet from the forming operation is provided
for in Class 162, while rewetting a dried product before reshaping
or shaping dry to form a noncommercial product is in Class 264. Processes
wherein destruction of the product of a Class 162 forming operations
are found in Class 264. Chemically liberating, purifying or recovering
fibers followed by a Class 264 shaping operation is found in Class
264.
Metal Founding,
subclass 6 for processes of making mold, generally of sand,
to be used in a metal casting operation and subclasses 47+ for metal
casting operation. Class 164, subclasses 91+ provide for
processes of casting metal around a nonmetallic body. That class
(164) also provides for a Class 264 operation followed by a Class
164 step.
Chemistry: Electrical and Wave Energy, processes involving an application of electrical
or wave energy to effect a chemical reaction, per se, and also processes
involving electrophoresis.
Etching a Substrate: Processes, Lines With Other Classes, Chemical Manufactures,
Part A, paragraph 2 for detailed line between this Class 264 and
Class 216.
Agitating,
subclasses 69+ for the method of working and kneading of rubber
or heavy plastic. Such working or kneading combined with shaping
or treating steps is provided for in Class 264.
Road Structure, Process, or Apparatus,
subclasses 72+ for a road making process which may include a molding
step. See Class 264, subclass 31 for the line between Classes 264 and
404.
Drug, Bio-Affecting and Body Treating Compositions,
subclasses 1.11+ , 2+, 40+, and 400+ for
class defined compositions and methods comprising shaped or special
form structures. Also note discussion in the class definition for Class
264 in Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Lines
With the Chemical Composition Classes" above.
Food or Edible Material: Processes, Compositions,
and Products, appropriate subclasses, especially
subclasses 276+ , 279+, 297, 337, 414, and 512+ for
processes involving the molding or shaping edible material.
Manufacturing Container or Tube From Paper; or
Other Manufacturing From a Sheet or Web, for combined operations in the manufacture of an article
of commerce from paper or other sheet or web material and particularly
subclasses 395+ for bending of a sheet or web without thinning
or thickening flow of the material.
Superconductor Technology: Apparatus, Material,
Process,
subclasses 300+ for processes of producing high temperature (Tc > 30 K)
superconductors; particularly subclass 401 for shock processing,
subclass 412 for laser ablative removal, subclass 425 for shaping
particulate by spraying, dropping, or slinging of solution, suspension,
or melt; or subclasses 490+ for shaping, consolidating,
or sintering processes.
Hazardous or Toxic Waste Destruction or Containment,
subclasses 249+ for the containment of hazardous or toxic waste
by molding or shaping.
SECTION V - GLOSSARY
BATT
A term of art for a web or sheet of material generally formed
by random interfelting of mass deposited discrete fibers or from
tangled or matted filaments, e.g., cotton batting.
BENDING
Distorting or deforming of a workpiece or self sustaining
body by curving or moving a portion thereof through its entire thickness
relative to another portion during which the thickness thereof remains
substantially the same and no significant plastic flow occurs.
CASTING
A process of molding or forming wherein impressions are
made with fluent or molten materials as by pouring into a mold with
hardening or setting of said material in said mold.
EXTRUDANT
A shaped body of material formed by forcing a supply of
said material through a confining orifice whereby the cross-sectional
area of the extruded portion corresponds to the dimensions of the
orifice.
FIBER
A discrete particle, generally bulk or mass handled because
of its small size, wherein the particle has a length considerably
greater than its breadth or cross-sectional diameter.
INDEFINITE LENGTH WORK
A self sustaining body, which because of its relatively large
length is handled at a point intermediate of its ends, and includes
single or one piece bodies formed in a continuous manner.
PREFORM
An article or stock material or bland which is self sustaining
and which may be subjected to a shaping or reshaping operation.
RESHAPING
A process in which a self sustaining body or a preform is
subjected to a deforming, e.g., by plastic flow, bending, stretching,
twisting, corrugating, so as to alter its overall shape.
SPINNING
A molding operation for forming of continuous or indefinite
length articles, generally filaments, by extrusion through an appropriately
sized orifice. Some types of spinning are spinning into a reactive
bath, melt spinning, evaporative spinning or solvent-extractive
spinning.
TREATMENT
A physical, chemical or mechanical step applied to molding
material or an article or preform, (see conditioning).
SHAPING OR TREATING RADIOACTIVE MATERIAL (E.G., FISSIONABLE OR
FERTILE, ETC.):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes directed to molding or treating articles having
a composition including a radioactive ingredient.
(1)
Note. Included herein for example are fissionable and fertile
ingredients, inclusive of nuclear reactor fuel, breeder or blanket
materials. See the glossary in the definitions of Class 376, Induced Nuclear
Reactions: Processes, Systems, and Elements, for definitions of
these terms.
(2)
Note. See the definitions of this class for the line between
this class and such composition Classes as 106, Compositions: Coating
or Plastic and 252, Compositions.
Specialized Metallurgical Processes, Compositions
for Use Therein, Consolidated Metal Powder Compositions, and Loose
Metal Particulate Mixtures,
subclass 235 for a consolidated metal particle composition containing
oxide of an Activide.
Induced Nuclear Reactions: Processes, Systems,
and Elements,
subclasses 409+ for nuclear fuel component structures including
radioactive materials; and subclasses 900+ for cross-reference
art collections of particular materials or material shapes for fission
reactors.
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, appropriate subclasses, especially
subclasses 411+ for a composite web or sheet characterized merely by
the composition of the layers, in which one of the layers may be
a radioactive material.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes directed to forming articles capable of producing
an optical effect other than mere transparency or planar reflection.
(1)
Note. The effect may be of (a) substantially total divergence,
convergence or internal reflection of light rays passing through
or directed at said articles, or (b) transmitting or reflecting
light rays vibrating in one plane only, e.g., polarized light, said
articles having a desired contour, shape, internal molecular arrangement,
or of a specific composition necessary to bring about said optical effects.
(2)
Note. This subclass provides for a process in which a nonoptical
article is molded against an optical article.
for a process of preliminary softening of a workpiece
and then applying heat and/or pressure to the workpiece
to form a curvilinear article which has the shape of a lens.
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, appropriate subclasses for a stock material product or
article having light-transmitting properties; especially
subclass 34 for a product having spaced, gas-enclosing, light-transmissive
sheets sealed at their edges; subclass 38 for an article having
a light-transmissive or translucent mass with an opaque border or
frame; and subclasses 426+ for a nonstructural composite
web or sheet including a layer comprising glass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1.1. Processes directed to shaping or treating an optical article
which is composed solely of nonresinous material.
(1)
Note. The application of a nonresinous coating to an optical
article is not provided for here. Such subject matter is provided
for in subclasses below.
(2)
Note. Attention is directed to the definition of Class 520,
Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers, for the distinction between
the terms "resinous" and "nonresinous."
This subclass is indented under subclass 1.21. Processes wherein the nonresinous material contains a halogen,
atomic numbers 9, 17, 35, 53, and 85 listed on the periodic table.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1.1. Processes directed to shaping or treating an optical fiber,
waveguide, or preform.
(1)
Note. Optical fibers are considered light guidance systems
that are generally cylindrical in shape. The fibers rely upon modal
transmission to transmit light along their axial length.
(2)
Note. A waveguide is considered a thin dielectric guide film
of high refractive index formed adjacent to a substrate or support
region of lower refractive index. The thin-film relies upon modal
transmission to transmit light along its length.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1.24. Processes including joining at least two optical fibers,
waveguides, or preforms by producing, shaping, or treating an interface
element or producing, shaping, or treating coverings or clads surrounding
the optical fiber, waveguide, or preform joining site.
(1)
Note. The interchange of light radiation between optical
fibers or waveguide structures having a mechanical interconnection
(coupler or connector) at the end of or between structures by a
process of this class is properly classified in this subclass.
(2)
Note. Shaping and treating processes including joining or
connecting optical fibers, waveguides, or preforms by fusion (e.g.,
forming optical fiber bundle) are proper for this subclass. Processes
of forming a cable or fiber bundle without fiber or waveguide joining,
connecting, coupling, or fusing are found below.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1.25. Processes wherein the optical product formed has an optical
component which focuses transmitting light waves, joined directly
to at least one light transmitting fiber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1.24. Processes wherein plasma, electric, electromagnetic, particulate,
or wave energy is used to treat or shape the optical fiber, waveguide,
or preform.
(1)
Note. The wave energy used may be light, sonic, supersonic,
ultrasonic, gamma rays, infrared rays, X-rays, etc. Particulate
energy includes charged particles and atomic emissions, such as alpha
rays, beta rays, and neutrons.
(2)
Note. The energy must be applied as such directly to the
work. Conversion or electrical energy to heat and the application
of the heat to the work is excluded from this subclass and is provided
for in appropriate subclasses below.
for a process of molding wherein magnetic or electrostatic
field or force is utilized to maintain a preform in a selected position
during molding, and see (1) Note above.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclasses 272.2+ for a laminating process including direct application
of electrical or radiant energy to the work, and see the SEARCH
CLASS notes thereunder.
Distillation: Processes, Thermolytic,
subclasses 5+ for a thermolytic distillation process combined
with a shaping operation in which electrical energy is applied to
the work; and subclass 19 for a thermolytic distillation process
in which electrical energy is applied to the work.
Chemistry: Electrical and Wave Energy,
subclasses 155+ , 157.15+, and 164 for processes of effecting
a chemical reaction by using electrical or wave energy. The line
stated in the class definition of Class 204, above the definition "Notes" therein,
for claims defining a Class 204 operation combined with an operation
for another class is to be followed for classification of claims
defining both Class 204 and Class 264 operations.
Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers, particularly Class 522 for a process of preparing
or treating a synthetic resin or natural rubber involving a chemical reaction
brought about by application of wave energy.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1.24. Processes wherein at least two optical fibers or waveguides
are incorporated into an assembly (a) that provides tensile strength
and external protection or (b) are adjacent one another to guide
light collectively.
(1)
Note. Extrusion processes involving forming a cable or fiber
bundle are properly classified here. Extrusion processes involving
a single (individual) optical fiber or waveguide are classified
below.
(2)
Note. Processes of forming or treating cables or fiber bundles
wherein optical fibers or waveguides are (a) embedded in a matrix,
(b) placed in separate preformed grooves or cavities, (c) sheathed, or
(d) fastened adjacent one to another are proper for this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1.24. Processes wherein the optical fiber, waveguide, or preform
is formed or treated by causing a positive force or pressure to
push glass through a die (e.g., core, clad, or sheath, etc.).
(1)
Note. Coextrusion processes involving treating or forming
optical fibers, waveguides, or fiber preforms are properly classified
here.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1.1. Processes directed to (a) aligning or orienting the molecular
or structural composition of a plastic material to produce an article
or coated article that allows light to pass therethrough in a single
plane or (b) a holographic article, or otherwise testing said article.
Optical Systems and Elements,
subclasses 1+ for holographic systems or elements, per se, subclasses
3+ for particular recording medium, and subclasses 383+ for
polarizers, per se, or use of polarized light.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1.31. Processes wherein the light polarizing article or holographic
article is used as a medium to record data or information.
(1)
Note. An optical recording medium in the form of tape, card,
or disc is included in this subclass.
(2)
Note. An optical recording medium combined with the capability
of reproducing recorded information or optical memory medium, per
se, is properly classified in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1.31. Processes wherein the light polarizing article or holographic
article is (a) in the form of a film or sheet or (b) a layered product
having said film or sheet as one of the layers.
(1)
Note. For classification in this subclass a sheet or film
will be considered a portion of material of finite length, whose width
is greater than its thickness and which may be of any geometric
shape (e.g., triangle, circle, etc.).
for processes wherein the light polarizing or holographic
article in the form of a sheet or film is used as an optical recording
or reproducing medium.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1.34. Processes wherein a composition of the film or sheet contains
halogen or is coated or treated with a halogen containing material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1.1. Processes wherein plasma, electric, electromagnetic, particulate,
or wave energy is used to treat or shape the optical article.
(1)
Note. The energy used may be light, sonic, supersonic, ultrasonic,
gamma rays, infrared rays, X-rays, etc. Particulate energy includes
charged particles and atomic emissions, such as alpha rays, beta
rays, and neutrons. The mere use of magnetic force employed to
maintain a preform in a selected position is not provided for here,
for which see subclasses 275+ below.
(2)
Note. The energy must be applied as such directly to the
work. Conversion of electrical energy to heat and the application
of the heat to the work is excluded from this subclass and is provided
for in appropriate subclasses below.
for a process of molding wherein magnetic or electrostatic
field or force is utilized to maintain a preform in a selected position
during molding, and see (1) Note above.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclasses 272.2+ for a laminating process including direct application
of electrical or radiant energy to the work, and see the SEARCH
CLASS notes thereunder.
Distillation: Processes, Thermolytic,
subclasses 5+ for a thermolytic distillation process combined
with a shaping operation in which electrical energy is applied to
the work; and subclass 19 for a thermolytic distillation process
in which electrical energy is applied to the work.
Chemistry: Electrical and Wave Energy, appropriate subclasses for processes effecting a
chemical reaction by utilizing electrical or wave energy. The line
stated in the Class 204 definition for claims defining a Class 204
operation combined with an operation for another class is to be
followed for classification of claims defining both Class 204 and
Class 264 operations.
Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers, particularly Class 522 for a process of preparing
or treating a synthetic resin or natural rubber involving a chemical reaction
brought about by application of wave energy.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1.1. Processes directed to the shaping or treating of an optical
article which is continuous or of indefinite length.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1.1. Processes directed to shaping or treating an optical article
including incorporation of an optical preform into the final optical
article.
(1)
Note. This and the indented subclasses provide for molding
a lens in two different sections where the first section has the
second molded against it as well as processes in which the second
section completely covers the first.
(2)
Note. Chemical treatment of an optical preform to alter optical
properties of part of the preform are not provided for herein, and
are found in subclass 2.6.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1.7. Process directed to forming an optical article having multiple
nonrandom areas of uniform refractive properties which differ from
each other.
(1)
Note. This subclass provides for the forming of bifocals
in particular and multifocal lenses in general.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1.1. Processes in which rotating motion is imparted to the material
being shaped or to the mold or mold-shaping surface.
for processes which pertain to agitating by plural
sequential rotations in reverse directions; however, such patents
should be crossed herein where applicable, depending on the time
of duration of said rotation periods in one direction.
Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus,
subclasses 425+ for a molding machine utilizing mold motion to
distribute or compact a fluent material in a mold.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1.1. Processes in which the volume or morphology of the mold
cavity is altered during the molding process or in which some expedient
is utilized which is claimed or disclosed as compensating for the
shrinkage of the material to be shaped.
This subclass is indented under subclass 2.2. Processes in which materials or conditions are chosen such
that the adherence of the molding material to the mold is facilitated
or a specific method of release of the optical article or the use
of a named release agent is claimed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 2.2. Processes directed to the reshaping of a preform into an
optical article or the treatment of such preform.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1.1. Processes which include the step of producing (a) a shaping
or molding device either as a, per se, operation by a method within
the definitions of this class, or (b) in combination with a step
of employing said shaping or molding device in the production of
a molded product by a process classifiable in this class, in which latter
instance the molding or shaping device may be formed by methods
provided for elsewhere.
(1)
Note. Patents reciting merely the application or formation
of mold linings on molding surfaces are not within the scope of
this subclass and are classified on some other bases.
(2)
Note. Patents reciting processes for manufacturing or assembling
molds not specifically provided for herein are classified in various
other classes depending on the specific manufacturing step employed,
e.g., Class 29, Metal Working; Class 156, Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous
Chemical Manufacture, etc.
Electrolysis: Processes, Compositions Used Therein,
and Methods of Preparing the Compositions,
subclasses 69 and 70 for processes of electroforming printing
plates, molds and the like.
EXPLOSIVE OR PROPELLANT ARTICLE SHAPING OR TREATING:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes in which the material which is shaped or molded
is disclosed to have utility as an explosive or a propellant.
Explosive and Thermic Compositions or Charges,
subclasses 2+ for explosive compositions shapes, nominal container
shapes therefore etc. Also see "SEARCH CLASS",
under subclass 2 of that class for related fields of search for
shaped inflammable compositions. For explosive compositions, per
se, search appropriate subclasses of that class.
Colloid Systems and Wetting Agents; Subcombinations
Thereof; Processes of Making, Stabilizing, Breaking, or Inhibiting,
subclasses 98+ for colloid systems of continuous or semicontinuous
solid phase with discontinuous liquid phase (gels, pastes, flocs,
coagulates) or agents for such systems or making or stabilizing
such systems or agents, when generically claimed or when there is
no hierarchically superior provision in the USPC for the specifically
claimed art.
This subclass is indented under subclass 3.4. Subject matter wherein the particulate material if formed
directly from a liquid state commonly referred to as liquid comminution
and solidification.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes wherein a material which is normally liquid at
ambient temperature and pressure is encapsulated, i.e., packaged
or contained, in shaped discrete receptacles e.g., microspheres.
(1)
Note. The classification of a patent reciting the encapsulation
of a core material with no reference to the core being a solid or
liquid, the assumption is made that the core is solid and therefore classified
in Class 427, subclasses 213.3+ as an original with a suggested cross
to this class, subclass.
(2)
Note. This class, subclass 4.1 provides for processes of
producing a composition by way of encapsulating (shaping operation)
a liquid core where elsewhere not provided for. The liquid core
may be homogeneous or heterogeneous.
(3)
Note. A patent reciting a coated or encapsulated material
with claimed utility(ies) is classified with the composition classes.
A similar patent with (a) multiply disclosed utilities or (b) undisclosed utility
is classified in Class 428, subclasses 402+. However,
in the latter two cases (a) and (b) above, when the coating or encapsulating
material stabilizes a compound against physical or chemical degradation,
then classification is appropriate for and subject to the limitations set
forth in one of the compound (element) classes. The order of superiority of
the composition classes are listed below under "SEARCH
CLASS". Those classes with an asterisk are not composition
classes but deemed appropriate for further search.
(4)
Note. Clathrates and intercalates (inclusion compounds),
per se, are classified hierarchically and subject to the limitations
set forth in the compound (element) classes based both on the encapsulant
and encapsulate. See the main definition for Class 264, section
II, LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS, subsection K, CLATHRATES
AND INTERCALATES, for examples.
Bleaching and Dyeing; Fluid Treatment and Chemical
Modification of Textiles and Fibers,
subclass 526 for a dye in specified form other than mere powder.
Specialized Metallurgical Processes, Compositions
for Use Therein, Consolidated Metal Powder Compositions and Loose
Metal Particulate Mixtures, for pertinent subclass (es) as determined by schedule
rewiew.
Compositions: Coating or Plastic, for a filler or pigment for a coating composition which
may include size or structure of the constituent particles or fibers
which recitation does not serve to exclude from Class 106. See especially
subclass 21 (invisible inks), 36, 235, 241, 251, 253+,
266, 272, 275, 276, 280, 281+, 400+, 400+, 636,
734, and 816 (coated material) in Class 106. See also V, above
in definition.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclass 81 for melting of a solid material in an airtight
cavity and subclasses 145+ for encapsulating, when combined
with a laminating step.
Plastic Article or Earthware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus,
subclass 5 for apparatus encapsulating normally liquid material
in discrete, simultaneously formed containers.*
Stock Materials or Miscellaneous Articles,
subclass 320.6 and subclass 321.5 for composite (e.g., layered, etc.)
stock material involving a microencapsulated liquid and subclasses
402.2+ for coated particles or microscopic size. *Not
a composition class.
Synthetic Resins or Natural Resins, see, for example, Class 523,
subclass 161 invisible ink composition and subclasses 200+ for
a composition containing product in the form of surface-coating,
impregnated, encapsulated, or surface-modified material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 4. Subject matter wherein a medium in the form of an emulsion
or dispersion is used to affect encapsulation of the liquid. The
medium may contain one or more polymers, polymer precursors, monomers
or other encapsulating materials, e.g., gelatin, wax, etc.
(1)
Note. Liposomes are formed of mesomorphic walls (i.e., a
state of matter intermediate between crystalline solid and normal
isotropic liquid) and are classified here based on their solid characteristics.
This subclass is indented under subclass 4. Subject matter wherein solid-walled microparticles are subjected
to a significant chemical or physical after-treatment, e.g., heating,
formaldenhyde crosslinking, etc., the recitation of "hardening
the formed microcapsule" is sufficient for placement here.
(1)
Note. Techniques utilized for merely recovering the microencapsulated
product are not the type of after-treatment considered, e.g., filtering,
precipitating, centrifuging, evaporating, distilling, sieving, etc.
Drying techniques also not considered as after-treatment are spray drying,
freeze drying (lyophilization), drum drying, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 4.3. Subject matter wherein the microencapsulation process produces
a multilayered shell completely surrounding the liquid core.
This subclass is indented under subclass 4.3. Subject matter wherein the microencapsulation process produces
a wall derived from a synthetic polymer which was prepared either
prior to or during the process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 4.1. Subject matter wherein solid wall formation is obtained
by solidifying molten material by cooling below the melting point
or range of the material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 4.1. Subject matter wherein solid-walled material is obtained
by physically removing a constituent of the colloidal emulsion or
dispersion, e.g., evaporation, distillation, extraction, precipitation,
etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 4.1. Subject matter wherein the solid-walled microcapsule is
obtained by the polymerization of one or more reactants contained
in the colloidal emulsion or dispersion system.
(1)
Note. A patent which claims an in situ-generated polymer
which subsequently reacts with a material, e.g., a crosslinking
agent contained in the liquid core, is not classified here but in
subclass 4.3.
FORMATION OF SOLID PARTICULATE MATERIAL DIRECTLY FROM MOLTEN
OR LIQUID MASS (E.G., LIQUID COMMINUTING):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes wherein a material in the liquid state is comminuted
to form discrete particles and solidified in its comminuted form.
(1)
Note. Where the purpose of the comminution is to effect a
material separation rather than to produce a desired size product,
the patent is not included herein, but will be found in the appropriate
separation class, e.g., Class 159, Concentrating Evaporators, and
Class 201, Distillation: Processes, Thermolytic, subclasses 7+.
(2)
Note. To be classified in this subclass the material must
be subdivided from an original liquid mass and then the subdivided
particles solidified with no substantial change in shape or size.
Thus, precipitation of a powder, etc., from a solution is not provided
for in this class in that an original liquid mass is not comminuted.
Coagulation of droplets formed by comminution can be found in this
or an indented subclass.
(3)
Note. The compound and composition classes are superior to
Class 264 in regard to liquid comminution and solidification unless
otherwise noted where: A. The product is formed and comminution
is recited only broadly, as by name only; B. The reactants are comminuted merely
to enhance a chemical reaction C. The final product size and shape
is not controlled or limited by the size and shape of the comminuted
liquid particles (see (2) Note above) or, D. The product is a stable
colloid or catalyst composition.
Metal Working,
subclass 1.22 for apparatus and methods for making bullets and
shot usually involving a plurality of metal working operations and
subclasses 4.51+ for the production of metal shreds by
a cutting operation.
Glass Manufacturing,
subclasses 376+ for processes of glass fiber or filament making;
subclasses 21.1+ for self-supporting particle making from glass
or glasslike materials.
Chemistry: Fertilizers,
subclasses 64.01+ for other processes of preparing fertilizer commercial
forms and also fertilizer forms as articles of manufacture.
Specialized Metallurgical Processes, Compositions
for Use Therein, Consolidated Metal Powder Compositions, and Loose
Metal Particulate Mixtures,
subclasses 331+ for production of free metal in particulate form
or production of alloy or metallic composition in particulate form
by comminuting directly from liquid metal. Patents which claim only
a process of comminuting and solidifying a liquid metal to form
discrete particles are classified as originals in Class 75. Patents
in which the claims are broad or nondefinitive as to material and
the disclosure states that materials other than metal are processed
by the invention will go as originals to Class 264. Patents having
claims to forming solid particulate metal and claims to forming
solid particulate nonmetal or patents having generic claims with
a disclosure to forming solid particulate metal and to forming solid
particulate nonmetal will go as originals to Class 264 and a cross-reference
will be placed in Class 75.
Metal Founding, appropriate subclasses for processes of forming particulate
metallic particles by means of a shaping surface and
subclass 272 for metal revolving or tumbling type shaping apparatus.
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles,
subclass 87 for a product with a pile or nap type surface and
including particles, subclasses 143+ for a stock material
product in the form of a single or plural layer web or sheet which has
a textured surface comprising particulate matter, subclasses 323+ for
a composite web or sheet including a component having structurally defined
particles, subclasses 402+ and 570 for structurally defined
or coated particles and subclasses 546+ for metallic stock
comprising metal particles.
Colloid Systems and Wetting Agents; Subcombinations
Thereof; Processes of Making, Stabilizing, Breaking, or Inhibiting,
subclasses 1+ for continuous gas or vapor phase colloid system (e.g.,
smoke, fog, aerosol, cloud, mist), subclasses 31+ for colloid
systems of colloid-sized solid or semisolid phase dispersed in primarily organic
continuous liquid phase, subclasses 38+ for colloid systems
of colloid-sized bituminous, coal, or Carbon phase dispersed in
aqueous continuous liquid phase, subclasses 77+ for colloid
systems of colloid-sized solid phase dispersed in aqueous continuous
liquid phase; or agents for such systems or making or stabilizing
such systems or agents; in each instance, when generically claimed
or when there is no hierarchically superior provision in the USPC
for the specifically claimed art.
This subclass is indented under subclass 5. Processes wherein the formed discrete particles are mass
or bulk assembled and bonded to each other to form a unitary article.
Specialized Metallurgical Processes, Compositions
for Use Therein, Consolidated Metal Powder Compositions, and Loose
Metal Particulate Mixtures,
subclasses 228+ for a consolidated metal powder composition.
Powder Metallurgy Processes, appropriate subclasses for producing metals or alloys
or metallic compositions in a solid or compact state from powdered or
particulate material with or without heating.
This subclass is indented under subclass 5. Processes wherein the liquid or molten material is comminuted
by means of centrifugal force or a revolving or rotating forming
surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 5. Processes wherein the particles are formed by agitation
or vibration of the liquid or molten mass to fling or shake off
said particles.
This subclass is indented under subclass 5. Processes wherein some form of direct electrical energy
is employed to comminute the liquid or molten mass into particles.
This subclass is indented under subclass 5. Processes in which the particles are formed by impinging
with or directing a jet or blast of a gas into contact with the
liquid or molten material.
for processes of liquid comminuting in which the
material is sprayed, per se, through particle forming orifices by
employing a relatively large pressure head of liquid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 5. Processes wherein the particles are formed by flowing or
allowing the liquid material to fall through a forming orifice.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes directed to the reshaping of solid, irregular
or nonspherical particulate matter wherein said irregularities are
diminished or the particles are caused to become more spherical
or rounded in shape without loss of material therefrom and by means
other than use of a mold or shaping surface therefor and in which the
individual and separate identities of the particles is maintained.
(1)
Note. Patents in this subclass are generally directed to
those processes in which heat is employed to soften the particles so
as to permit the internal cohesive forces of the particles to effect
said reshaping as defined.
Specialized Metallurgical Processes, Compositions
for Use Therein, Consolidated Metal Powder Compositions, and Loose
Metal Particulate Mixtures,
subclass 342 , for spheroidizing or rounding of existing solid metal
particles. Patents having claims to spheroidizing or rounding of
solid metal particles and claims to spheroidizing or rounding of
solid, nonmetal particles or patents having generic claims with
a disclosure to spheroidizing or rounding of solid, metal particles
and to spheroidizing or rounding of solid, nonmetallic particles
will go as originals to Class 264 and a cross-reference will be
placed in Class 75.
Distillation: Processes, Thermolytic,
subclasses 5+ for a thermolytic distillation process including
the step of shaping solid carbonaceous material without using a
mold.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes wherein articles are formed which conform to the
contour of the human mouth or which simulate a tooth.
Electrolysis: Processes, Compositions Used Therein,
and Methods of Preparing the Compositions,
subclass 67 for electroforming methods of producing dentures.
Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus,
subclass 2 for shaping apparatus utilizing an anatomical body
or portion thereof as a shaping surface.
appropriate subclasses indented thereunder for processes
of forming composite articles, per se, in which material is shaped
and united to a preformed self-sustaining body.
This subclass is indented under subclass 19. Processes wherein the tooth or portion thereof is formed
so as to provide a color or tone differential across the member.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes directed to molding or treating articles having
a composition including a luminescent, phosphorescent, or fluorescent
ingredient.
Coating Processes,
subclasses 157+ for processes of coating utilizing fluorescent
or phosphorescent coating.
(2)
Note. The energy must be applied as such to the work. Conversion of
electrical energy to heat and the application of the heat to the
work is excluded from this subclass and is provided for in appropriate
subclasses below.
(3)
Note. The laser ablation of a Class 264 material in the absence of
an added reactive chemical is proper for Class 264. When a reactive
chemical is used in the laser ablation the subject matter is proper
for etching Class 216.
WITH STEP OF COOLING TO A TEMPERATURE OF ZERO DEGREES C.
OR BELOW:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes which include subjecting the molding material
or product to a cooling, freezing or refrigeration step which lowers
the temperature of the material or product to at least O°C
or 32°F.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes wherein a carbonaceous material is subjected to
a heat treatment in a substantially nonoxidizing atmosphere to produce a
product containing elemental carbon.
Fuel and Related Compositions,
subclass 599 for a process of making a consolidated fuel solids
composition which includes a step of carbonizing using a specified
condition or technique.
Chemistry of Inorganic Compounds,
subclasses 445+ for elemental carbon, per se, and its manufacturing
processes involving a chemical reaction. For the line between 423
subclasses 445+ and this class concerning combined processes
of molding and carbonizing, see the class definitions of this class,
section II. A. 10).
Catalyst, Solid Sorbent, or Support Therefor:
Product or Process of Making, for a composition comprising a catalyst or sorbent,
per se, which may be activated carbon. Activated carbon is proper
for Class 502, rather than Class 423.
This subclass is indented under subclass 29.1. Processes directed to making articles in which the length
is relatively much greater than the width and thickness.
This subclass is indented under subclass 29.1. Processes including the step of tumbling or otherwise agitating
a mass of fine discrete particles to cause adherence of the particles
to one another thereby producing larger sized particles prior to
carbonizing.
This subclass is indented under subclass 29.1. Processes which prepare an article by carbonizing and then
subsequently add a carbonizable material (e.g., by impregnating)
and recarbonize.
This subclass is indented under subclass 29.1. Processes wherein one step of carbonization takes place
in a specifically recited atmosphere other than vacuum or air.
(1)
Note. The recitations inert, nonoxidizing, or the like shall
be considered sufficient to place the patent in this subclass.
(2)
Note. One step of carbonizing may occur in an oxidizing atmosphere
as long as the process also includes a step of carbonizing under
nonoxidizing conditions.
This subclass is indented under subclass 29.1. Processes wherein the carbonizing step is carried out by
(1) varying the temperature over a given time span or by (2) heating
the article to two or more distinct temperatures.
(1)
Note. Heating the article to cure binder or dry is not considered
carbonizing unless positively disclosed that such occurs under those
conditions.
(2)
Note. Heating to a temperature to cause a change in crystalline
form of the carbon (e.g., graphitizing) is considered a step of
carbonizing for this subclass.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes which are directed to (1) maintaining, restoring,
or rebuilding a damaged, defective, or worn furnace lining or (2)
forming an original interior layer on the furnace wall which remains
in place during furnace use.
(1)
Note. This is the residual home for furnace lining formation
or repair not elsewhere provided for. In general, however, the
combination of building a furnace and applying a lining to the interior
thereof is classified in the class providing for the particular
method of building the furnace. For classes which provide for furnaces
and furnace lining, see the notes below.
Static Structures (e.g., Buildings),
subclasses 741.1+ and 745.01+ for processes of assembling
or in situ erection of a building involving more than repair by
a process for Class 264.
Specialized Metallurgical Processes, Compositions
for Use Therein, Consolidated Metal Powder Compositions, and Loose
Metal Particulate Mixtures,
subclass 301 for reactive furnace linings.
Compositions,
subclasses 500+ for furnace lining composition or linings defined
only in terms of their composition when the composition is electrically
conductive.
Chemical Apparatus and Process Disinfecting, Deodorizing,
Preserving, or Sterilizing, appropriate subclasses for furnaces for carrying
out chemical reactions.
Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers, appropriate subclasses, particularly Class 523,
subclass 141 for a composition containing a synthetic resin
or natural rubber having utility for a metallurgical furnace or
oven apparatus or to processes of preparing said composition.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes directed to the formation in situ of an erected
structure or a part thereof.
(1)
Note. Included here are only processes for forming those
structures which are not intended to be moved or transported after
the final molding step. For example, forming a prefabricated wall
is not included here but placed in appropriate subclasses below,
while forming a wall or portion thereof in its final intended position
is included here. Forming parts by a molding operation and uniting
in situ by a second molding operation is also included here.
Static Structures (e.g., Buildings),
subclasses 745.01+ for particular processes of forming or assembling
an in situ structure. The line between Class 264 and Class 52 is:
Class 52 takes (1) forming in situ erected building structures by
uniting preformed modules, e.g., bricks, cinder blocks, etc., and (2)
other processes involving molding when combined with a building
formation step which is more than a mere perfecting step for the
molding such as (a) forming elements by molding, and joining the
molded elements together, or to another element, by nonmolding means
and (b) uniting a mold form with the surface of the molded body
and permitting the form to remain as a portion of the building construction.
Class 264 takes process of molding, per se, including forming building
structures in situ when such processes include only molding steps.
For example, processes for embedding elements such as reinforcements in
the molded product or molding structural elements and then uniting the
elements by a molding operation are within the scope of this class.
Road Structure, Process, or Apparatus,
subclasses 72+ for processes of building roads. The line between Classes
264 and 404, is as follows: Class 404, provides for processes of forming
roads except that Class 264 provides for such road making processes
which include only the steps of molding monolithic uniform composition
structure and/or compacting, treating, stressing or surface
working the material to perfect the molding or curing of the molded
body.
Hydraulic and Earth Engineering, appropriate subclasses for processes of earthworking, e.g.,
digging, filling, etc., combined with molding, especially
subclass 222 for a method of casting a structure in a marine
environment; and subclasses 233+ for a method of casting
a pile or pier in situ.
This subclass is indented under subclass 31. Processes in which the structure formed includes either
an arched or domed portion or a portion which is vertically cylindrical.
This subclass is indented under subclass 31. Processes in which at least a portion of the mold is removed
from the structure and repositioned and used to form a second portion
of the structure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 31. Processes in which a preform member or a portion thereof
becomes embedded in or united to the molded material and remains
to form a structural part of the product.
(1)
Note. Embedded elements which serve solely as reinforcement
and have no other structural purpose are not considered proper for
this subclass but are placed according to the molding operations.
Static Structures (e.g., Buildings), for processes in which structural elements which
make up an exterior portion of the final construction are used to retain
the molding material and remain in place after the molding operation.
Pipes or tubes embedded in the molding material are considered proper
for Class 264.
REPAIRING OR RESTORING CONSUMER USED ARTICLES FOR REUSE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes wherein a worn, damaged, or consumer
used article is renewed or reconditioned for reuse in a capacity
similar to that of the original article, without substantially
altering or destroying the overall configuration of the original
article.
for processes involving reuse
of articles or article forming material in which flash, trim, or
product rejects are recycled and put through an overall mixing and/or
reshaping, and see subclass 37.1 notes thereto.
Resilient Tires and Wheels,
subclass 367 for devices, e.g., patches
applied to a tire surface for covering a puncture or blowout, wherein
the claims involve a superficial fixing of the tire and do not involve
a substantial removal of the material of the tire to permit rebuilding.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclasses 94 through 97for repairing by a laminating operation; subclasses 701-719
for a delaminating process, per se, and subclasses
918-933 for a delaminating process adapted to specified
products, per se, separating an adhered layer
or portion from another layer at a bonding face while retaining layer
identity.
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles,
subclass 63 for a product in which a hole or depression has
been patched and subclass 912 (a cross-reference
art collection) for a product having a puncture healing
layer.
This subclass is indented under subclass 36.1. Processes wherein the article to be renewed or reconditioned
contains randomly dispersed pores or voids and contains no textile.
(1)
Note. Acceptable for this subclass are composite-structured
articles wherein one article section may be porous while another
article section is nonporous.
(2)
Note. Utilizing putty to repair wooden articles for reuse
is properly classified in this subclass since wood is considered
to be inherently porous.
(3)
Note. Renewal and reconditioning of fabric and cloth material
(e.g., textiles, etc.) are excluded from placement in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 36.1. Processes wherein the article which is to be renewed or
reconditioned is a spherical or nonhollow columnar shaped body.
This subclass is indented under subclass 36.1. Processes wherein the article which is to be renewed or
reconditioned has sound reproducing grooves on its surface.
Electrolysis: Processes, Compositions Used Therein,
and Methods of Preparing the Compositions,
subclass 68 for electroforming methods of producing sound records.
Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers, appropriate subclasses, particularly Class 523,
subclass 174 for a composition containing a synthetic resin
or natural rubber having utility as a phonograph record molding
composition or to processes of preparing said composition.
This subclass is indented under subclass 36.1. Processes wherein the article to be renewed or reconditioned
is toroidal in shape (i.e., doughnut shaped).
(1)
Note. A toroidal shape is comprised of a figure having a surface
generated when rotated about an axis lying in the same plane therewith,
but not intersecting or containing, an axis in its own plane.
(2)
Note. The majority of the art in this subclass relates to
processes for repairing or restoring vehicle tires, but the subclass
is not so limited.
Resilient Tires and Wheels,
subclass 367 for devices, e.g., patches applied to a tire surface
for covering a puncture or blowout, wherein the claims involve a
superficial fixing of the tire and do not involve a substantial removal
of the material of the tire to permit rebuilding.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous chemical Manufacture,
subclasses 94+ , for processes which are (a) combined with the
step of recovering material utilized in a previous laminating procedure
and/or (b) directed to restoring or rebuilding a damaged
or defective article or material by a laminating procedure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 36.1. Processes wherein the article to be renewed or reconditioned
has an intentionally constructed nonrandom void or opening therethrough
or has a nonrandom inner or concave surface or cavity.
(1)
Note. The mere presence of a chip or crack in an article is
not considered sufficient to render the article hollow for the purposes
of this subclass, unless the overall macrostructure of the entire
article meets this subclass definition. See search notes below.
for repairing or restoring cracks or chips in articles
containing inorganic material for reuse, especially subclass 36.21
for repairing or restoring cracks or chips in nonhollow or noncontainer-
type glass articles.
for repairing or restoring cracks or chips in articles
containing polymeric material or treating cracks or chips in nonhollow
or noncontainer-type articles of polymeric material.
Pipes and Tubular Conduits, especially
subclass 97 for processes and apparatus for repairing leaks
in pipes and hose for reuse when no molding step is present.
This subclass is indented under subclass 36.15. Processes, wherein the article to be reconditioned or renewed
is a self supporting open ended hollow conduit (e.g., hose, etc.).
(1)
Note. Repairing or reconditioning pipe joints utilizing a
molding operation is properly classified here.
(2)
Note. Repairing or reconditioning of concrete or hydro-set
pipes or tubes is properly classified as original in this subclass
with crosses below as deemed suitable.
Hydraulic and Earth Engineering,
subclass 154.1 for subterranean or submarine pipe or cable laying, retrieving,
manipulating, or treating; and subclass 188 for an apparatus or method
for enabling personnel to work on a section of submerged pipeline.
Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus,
subclasses 11+ for a product or preform repair or restoring means
comprising a molding apparatus for shaping or reshaping nonmetals.
This subclass is indented under subclass 36.16. Processes wherein a positive or negative pressure is internally
applied to renewing or reconditioning material through the medium
of a liquid or gas in direct or indirect contact therewith to shape
or maintain a desired configuration.
This subclass is indented under subclass 36.1. Processes wherein the article to be renewed or reconditioned
contains inorganic material.
(1)
Note. Processes of repairing or restoring an article containing
inorganic material, as well as organic material present as bonding
agents, solvents, fillers, etc., are properly classified herein.
This subclass is indented under subclass 36.18. Processes wherein the inorganic material containing article
is a clad (sheathed) usually metallic strand or a collection of
clad strands or rods.
(1)
Note. Class 264 excludes any metal working, casting or welding
operations.
This subclass is indented under subclass 36.18. Processes wherein the article to be renewed or reconditioned
contains or is treated with an aqueous fluent inorganic composition
that solidifies (e.g.,cures, sets, etc.).
(1)
Note. Processes of repairing or restoring an article containing
inorganic hydro-settable material, as well as organic material present
as bonding agents, solvents, fillers, etc., are properly classified herein.
This subclass is indented under subclass 36.1. Processes wherein the reconditioning or renewing of the
article includes a polymerization, cross-linking, curing, or hardening
operation.
(1)
Note. Claimed subject matter which includes one of the terms
in the following list is properly classified herein: a. cross-linking
b. curing c. addition polymerization d. condensation polymerization
e. block or graft polymerization f. hardening This list is not
intended to be exhaustive and is not limited to the above examples.
RECYCLING OF RECLAIMED OR PURIFIED PROCESS MATERIAL (NOT RECYCLED
CONSUMER USED ARTICLES):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes in which process materials (e.g., flash, trim,
defective products, molding materials from which products are formed, treating
materials utilized in the molding process, etc.) which were previously
employed in a molding operation, whether from batch or continuous
process, are recycled or reused in the same or a different molding
operation.
(1)
Note. Recycling of consumer used articles (e.g., scrap articles
or worn materials, used tires, materials employed in commerce, etc.)
or articles intended for consumer use are not considered proper under
this subclass. However, recycling of defective or improperly molded
articles (e.g., virgin material, etc.) will be considered proper
for this subclass.
(2)
Note. Merely recycling reclaimed "as is" process
material as hereinabove set forth is sufficient for placement in
this subclass. It is not essential
that a step of purification, reclamation, or separation of the desired
process material be present for a process to be proper for this subclass.
Thus, recycling of a desired polymeric process material does not require separation from a solvent
thereof to be proper in this subclass.
(3)
Note. Recycling of heat exchange agents, per se, that directly contact shaped articles or process
materials is considered proper under this subclass. However, recycling
of heat exchange agents that do not directly contact shaped
articles or process materials (e.g., cycling of liquid coolant through
hollow mold walls, etc.) are not proper for this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37.1. Processes wherein a liquid process material is recycled
or recovered by changing to a gaseous state and back to a reusable
liquid state.
(1)
Note. A liquid is considered to be a state of matter which
exhibits a characteristic readiness to flow, little or no tendency
to disperse, and relatively high incompressibility.
(2)
Note. A gas is considered to have a very low density and viscosity,
relatively great expansion and contraction with changes in pressure
and temperature, and to be readily diffusive, with a tendency to
expand indefinitely, with molecules in free movement.
(3)
Note. Liquid process materials found here are vaporized,
condensed, and reused in a molding process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37.1. Processes wherein the reclaimed or process material is a
gas, (e.g., vapor, cloud, fog, haze, or mist, etc.) under standard
conditions.
(1)
Note. A gas is considered to have a very low density and viscosity,
relatively great expansion and contraction with changes in pressure
and temperature, to be readily diffusive, with a tendency to expand
indefinitely, with molecules in free movement.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37.14. Processes wherein the gaseous process material is used to
form pores or voids in molded or shaped articles.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37.14. Processes wherein the gaseous material is from a blow molding
process.
(1)
Note. Blow molding is considered an operation wherein a positive
or negative pressure is applied through the medium of a liquid or
gas in direct contact with a work-piece to form or maintain a desired configuration.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37.14. Processes wherein the gaseous material is a heat exchange
agent that directly contacts a molded article.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37.1. Processes wherein the reclaimed or purified process material
is liquid.
(1)
Note. A liquid is considered to be a state of matter which
exhibits a characteristic readiness to flow, little or no tendency
to disperse, and relatively high incompressibility.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37.18. Processes wherein the liquid process material is from an
aqueous fluent inorganic composition that solidifies (e.g., cures,
sets, etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 37.18. Processes wherein an extrudant-receiving liquid bath process
material is recovered for recycling or reuse.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37.2. Processes wherein a step is included which involves utilizing
a filtering apparatus which is used to separate a recyclable liquid
process material (e.g., using filters, screens, sieves, etc.).
(1)
Note. A filter is considered to be an article or mass of material
made of closely spaced or intimately arranged intermeshed or unconnected
fibers, elements, strands, or particles that collectively act as
a barrier to physically retain at least one constituent of a fluid mixture
on its surfaces or in the spaces between the fibers, elements, strands,
or particles while permitting passage of the remaining constituents.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37.18. Processes wherein the reclaimed liquid process material
is recycled into or is reused in a blow molding operation.
(1)
Note. Blow molding is considered an operation wherein a positive
or negative pressure is applied through the medium of a liquid or
gas in direct contact with a work-piece to form or maintain a desired configuration.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37.18. Processes wherein the reclaimed
liquid process material is recycled into or is reused in an extrusion
molding operation.
(1)
Note. Extrusion molding is considered an operation wherein
an article is shaped or formed by forcing a supply of the article
forming material through a confining and shaping orifice.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37.18. Processes wherein the reclaimed liquid process material
is recycled into or is reused in an injection molding operation.
(1)
Note. Injection molding is considered an operation wherein
pressure is applied to a molding material so as to force said material
from a source removed from a closed mold cavity into said cavity wherein
the material assumes the shape of the interior of the closed cavity.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37.1. Processes wherein the reclaimed or purified process material
is in the form of surplus fiber or filament.
(1)
Note. A fiber or filament is generally considered a relatively
slender, flexible element of macroscopic size having a length substantially
greater than its width.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37.1. Processes wherein the reclaimed or purified process material
is surplus small bits of matter having definite shape, relatively
great density, low internal heat content, and great cohesion of its
molecules, which typically can be poured like a fluid when handled
(e.g., granule, bead, powder, pellet, flake, particle, granulate,
grain, etc.).
(1)
Note. Solid particulates generally are distinguished from
filamentary particles in that their shape and length-to-diameter
ratio are such that in the dry state the particulates will not hold
together as a massive article without the application of pressure
or heat.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37.1. Processes wherein the reclaimed or purified process material
is surplus process material which may, for example, have been stamped, excised,
or rejected.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37.3. Processes wherein the reclaimed surplus process material
is recycled or is reused in a blow molding operation.
(1)
Note. Blow molding is considered an operation wherein a positive
or negative pressure is applied through the medium of a liquid or
gas in direct contact with a work-piece to form or maintain a desired configuration.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37.3. Processes wherein the reclaimed
surplus process material is recycled or is reused in an extrusion
molding operation.
(1)
Note. Extrusion molding is considered an operation wherein
an article is shaped or formed by forcing a supply of the article
forming material through a confining and shaping orifice.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37.3. Processes wherein the reclaimed
surplus process material is recycled or is reused in an injection
molding operation.
(1)
Note. Injection molding is considered an operation wherein
pressure is applied to a molding material so as to force said material
from a source removed from a closed mold cavity into said cavity wherein
the material assumes the shape of the interior of the closed cavity.
WITH STEP OF CLEANING, POLISHING, OR PRECONDITIONING APPARATUS
FOR USE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes which include a step of cleaning or polishing
or otherwise mechanically or physically treating the apparatus or
a working surface thereof in order to restore, maintain or bring
said apparatus to a desired or necessary operating condition.
(1)
Note. Preheating a mold or maintaining a mold at a temperature
sufficiently high to shape thermoplastic material is deemed to be
a common expedient in the art and patents reciting these steps will be
classified on other steps.
(2)
Note. Included herein are patents reciting a step of precooling
a mold to return it to operating temperature and the use of intermittently
applied purging compositions as well as physical and solvent removal
of contaminants, incrustations and/or surfaces of molds,
per se.
(3)
Note. The use of mold lubricants applied, per se, or incorporated
in the molding composition is provided for elsewhere, see the search
notes below.
for processes which include the step of preventing
equipment fouling accumulations and deposits in formation of continuous
or indefinite length articles, which may include e.g., addition of
an ingredient to spinning composition or bath or spinnerette of
a particular structure or composition.
Metal Founding,
subclass 121 for preconditioning processes for metal casting
apparatus and subclass 158 for apparatus of that class with cleaning means.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes include the step of sampling, audibly or chemically
testing or inspecting, or otherwise physically or mechanically determining
some variable condition in a shaped article, molding material, the
mold or shaping surface.
(1)
Note. Included herein are processes for determining imperfections
or for determining completeness of a reaction or manipulation as
well as determinations of undesired variations which activate correction
mechanisms. Recitations of optimum or desired temperatures of pressures
or proportions of ingredients are considered nominal only and are classified
with the disclosed process on some other basis.
This subclass is indented under subclass 40.1. Processes wherein the movement or shape of a molding material
is controlled by direct contact of a fluid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 40.1. Processes wherein the weight or volume of the molding material
is measured.
(1)
Note. Operations of a container to a desired capacity or
maintaining the molding material at a desired capacity is considered
to be proper for this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 40.1. Processes wherein either the position of a mold part to
form a shaping cavity or pressure of a mold part on the molding
material is controlled.
(1)
Note. Controlling the relative position of a doctor blade
with respect to the molding material is included in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 40.1. Processes wherein the movement of the molding material or
a substrate supporting the molding material in a continuous process
is controlled.
(1)
Note. A continuous process for this subclass is either (1)
set up for repetitive operations or (2) wherein an endless flow
of molding material leaves the molding cavity.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes including the step of forming pores or voids in
an article or material, said pore forming being effected internally
by occluding or incorporating void forming or void producing elements
or ingredients randomly throughout the plastic article forming material.
(1)
Note. Where particulate material is united leaving spaces
between the individual particles, the patent does not go here, but
to subclass 109.
(2)
Note. Processes wherein an article or material is mechanically
performed to form voids are provided for in subclass 138.
(3)
Note. Pore forming when not combined with significant molding
is provided for in various classes and the general lines between
those classes and Class 264 is followed even though the step of
forming pores is recited.
(4)
Note. Included within the scope of this and indented subclasses
is enlarging voids already present in a material by expanding gases
contained therein.
Hazardous or Toxic Waste Destruction or Containment,
subclass 255 for the forming of pores or voids in the production
of a material containing hazardous or toxic waste for purposes of
containment.
This subclass is indented under subclass 45.1. Processes wherein a mold part is inflatable or expandable,
or an inflatable form is used as a base on which foaming material
solidifies.
(1)
Note. Generally the inflatable or expandable feature is to
facilitate insertion or removal of a plural layered of multipart
article which is formed in a mold.
This subclass is indented under subclass 45.1. Processes wherein particles, fibers, or batts are incorporated
within the foamed mass in a random distribution.
This subclass is indented under subclass 45.1. Processes wherein the material to be foamed is in the form
of beads or particles which unite when expanded.
This subclass is indented under subclass 45.1. Processes wherein: (1) The surface of a preformed material
is treated so as to form a foam or, (2) Wherein a foam from a single
foamable material is formed and the density of the foam at its exterior
surface is different from the density of the foam in the interior
thereof.
(1)
Note. Processes involving the preparation of different density
foams found herein generally involve the collapsing or prevention
of the expansion of foaming material in a closed mold.
This subclass is indented under subclass 45.5. Processes wherein the surface foam layer is produced by
exposing the preformed base material to a treating agent.
This subclass is indented under subclass 45.1. Processes wherein foaming is caused in a rotational mold
or in which the feedstock is forced into the mold by centrifugal
force.
This subclass is indented under subclass 45.1. Processes wherein a continuous, running or indefinite length
body is formed by an uninterrupted molding step or a sequential
series of steps is preformed in a continuous manner.
(1)
Note. The final article produced need not be of indefinite
length, as for example, wherein the continuous, running or indefinite
length body is cut into predetermined length pieces.
(2)
Note. Extrusion is generally assumed to produce an indefinite
length product.
This subclass is indented under subclass 46.2. Processes wherein shaping takes place between a pair of
coating continuously moving surfaces and at least one of the surfaces
is generally cylindrical and revolves about the longitudinal axis
of the cylinder with rolling motion relative to the material shaped.
(1)
Note. Included herein, for example, is shaping between a
pair of rolls, a roll and an endless belt or by a calender.
This subclass is indented under subclass 45.1. Processes in which a molding material remains united with
a preform or solidified layer to constitute a composite article,
one of whose layers is porous.
(1)
Note. Solidified layer includes any collection of material
given form by a shape defining means and possessing at least a minimal
degree of cohesiveness, for example, layers formed by slush molding,
spraying or layup on a mold or more generally any material that
would be a preform, but for the fact that it remains in the mold
in which it is formed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 46.1. Processes wherein two distinct preformed bodies or solidified
layers with opposing surfaces are positioned in a spaced relationship
with each other and a porous material at least partially fills the
space between them, said porous material acting to unite the preforms
or solidified layers and being contained at least in part by said
preforms or solidified layers.
This subclass is indented under subclass 46.4. Processes wherein foam material is deposited in a recess
or cavity in a preform or solidified layers such that the preform
or solidified layer forms the surface of a fully or partially foam filled
article.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes filling hollow articles with
foam and making foam filled or plugged articles.
This subclass is indented under subclass 46.4. Processes wherein a metal part or a material which lends
strength or rigidity to the final article is covered with foam.
This subclass is indented under subclass 46.5. Processes wherein the surface to be coated or filled is
subjected to deformation caused by heat and a pressure differential.
This subclass is indented under subclass 41. Processes wherein the exterior or outside surface of a porous
body is subjected to a chemical or physical treatment.
This subclass is indented under subclass 41. Processes in which the voids are formed by subjecting embedded
solids to a treatment which changes the physical dimension or state of
the solids and causes the space the solids previously occupied to
be left as voids.
(1)
Note. If the occluded solid is removed by changing it to
a gas the process is here if the void is produced by the solid, rather
than by the expansion of the gas. See subclass 51 for processes
in which a generated gas forms the voids.
This subclass is indented under subclass 41. Processes in which a pore forming gas is introduced or forced
by mechanical means into a plastic material before the molding and
solidification operation.
(1)
Note. Operations including shaping and solidification of
a froth, per se, with no pore forming steps are classified below on
manipulative molding steps and cross-referenced here when pertinent.
This subclass is indented under subclass 51. Processes wherein the expansion of the porous material is
inhibited by the presence of a chemical or mechanical means other
than mere confines of the mold, per se.
This subclass is indented under subclass 51. Processes in which the voids are formed by a liquid to gas
change of state, i.e., vaporization of a liquid incorporated into
the molding material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 51. Processes in which the voids are formed by the generation
of gas by a chemical reaction of gas producing reactants or agents
incorporated in the molding material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 54. Processes in which the chemical blowing to produce the pores
is effected in two or more stages or in which the expansion takes
place by means of varying expansion space.
TREATMENT OF MATERIAL BY VIBRATING, JARRING, OR AGITATING DURING
SHAPING:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes which include the step of applying or effecting
an oscillation or to and fro movement to the article forming material
in a mold, or to the molding surface, or applying a sudden impact
to the mold.
(1)
Note. For agglomerating of particles by agitating or tumbling,
see this class, subclass 117 and the notes thereto.
(2)
Note. Tamping, per se, is considered a form of pressure application
only and is excluded from this subclass.
(3)
Note. Processes including a sliding movement between a reciprocating
mold and a concrete surface to give a trowelling effect are included
herein.
(4)
Note. Patents claiming "rapid" or "high frequency" vibration,
per se, with no disclosure as to the particular frequencies employed
will be placed herein. To complete a search, however, see this class
subclasses 442+ and the definition and notes thereto,
and see (3) Note above with reference to the use of sonic or supersonic
wave energy in the process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 69. Processes wherein the treated article is one formed in a
continuous manner or is of a running or indefinite length.
This subclass is indented under subclass 69. Processes in which the mold and its contents are vibrated
or in which there is a reciprocal motion between a moving mold surface
and the material therein.
This subclass is indented under subclass 71. Processes wherein said mold vibration or reciprocation is
discontinuous; of varying intensity or the vibrations are of different
character, one from the other.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes wherein a random, haphazard coloring effect is
obtained as a result of and during a shaping operation.
(1)
Note. The color pattern of the product produced by this subclass
is random usually because at least one of the components is rendered
fluent by the shaping operation and there is random or uncontrolled
flow of the coloring agent. Processes in which controlled pattern multicolored
articles are made by compositing or molding plural materials may be
found in subclasses 245+.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclass 63 for processes of manually arranging differently
colored or shaped discrete elements to form a design.
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, appropriate subclasses, for a stock material product in
the form of a single or plural layer web or sheet which may have
a random variegated color, especially
subclasses 141+ for a textured or rough surface of variegated color.
This subclass is indented under subclass 73. Processes wherein the variegated coloring occurs only in
the surface portion of the article; i.e., does not extend entirely
through the article.
This subclass is indented under subclass 73. Processes wherein the variegated coloring is produced by
forcing differently colored materials through a shaping orifice.
This subclass is indented under subclass 73. Processes wherein the variegated coloring is produced by
sheeting differently colored materials between coacting rollers.
This subclass is indented under subclass 73. Processes wherein the molding operation which produces the
random variegated coloring effect involves the application of pressure to
the differently colored materials in a confined space.
WITH INCORPORATING DYE SUSCEPTIBLE MATERIAL OR DYEING WORKPIECE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes which include the
step of (1) dyeing an article or workpiece or (2) incorporating
a dye susceptible ingredient in the molding material.
(1)
Note. The dye susceptible ingredient incorporated into the
molding material is not in itself a colored ingredient or a dye, per
se, but is capable of subsequent treatment or reaction to form a
colored body, (e.g., vat or leuco dyes, mordants, etc.).
(2)
Note. This subclass includes processes in which a dye susceptible
material is incorporated into a spinning solution which is then
spun or extruded into a coagulating bath which contains a reactant
for the dye susceptible material to produce the color, even if the
reactant is the only specific ingredient of the bath which is named.
Bleaching and Dyeing; Fluid Treatment and Chemical
Modification of Textiles and Fibers, particularly
subclasses 154 , 489 and 497 and see the notes and search notes
thereto. See also the main definitions to this Class 264, section
II, A 2. For weighting or mordanting of materials classified therein,
see Class 8, subclass 443. Processes which include a nominal or broadly
recited molding step combined with the step of dyeing the formed
or coagulated filament are provided for in Class 8.
WITH APPLICATION OR BARRIER FOR VOLATILE COMPONENT MATERIAL
TO MOLDED ARTICLE SURFACE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes wherein the escape of a volatile component of
a molded article composition through the surface of the article
is prevented, minimized or slowed by the application of a relatively
impermeable layer to said surface.
FLAME CONTACT OR RESHAPING BY HEAT DECOMPOSITION OF WORK:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes wherein at least a portion of a preform is (1)
subjected to direct contact by an open flame or (2) contacted by
a heat which chemically decomposes a surface portion to shape the
preform.
Bleaching and Dyeing; Fluid Treatment and Chemical
Modification of Textiles and Fibers,
subclass 140 for processes of singeing or carbonizing of textiles.
GAS OR VAPOR DEPOSITION OF ARTICLE FORMING MATERIAL ONTO MOLD
SURFACE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes wherein material employed in forming an article
is applied to a shaping surface in a gaseous or vapor state.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes in which a workpiece or molding material is subjected
to treatment with an applied gas or vapor, which gas or vapor reacts chemically
with at least the surface of the workpiece.
(1)
Note. Processes in which steam generated by heating wet concrete
would not bring a patent here. To be placed in this subclass steam
or vapor must be added from an external source or be created from
water other than that in the concrete.
Compositions: Coating or Plastic, appropriate subclasses for reactive steam treatment
of inorganic materials when combined with a broadly recited molding
step.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes wherein material is consolidated by an explosive
force or detonation which produces a large sudden compacting pressure
on said material.
UTILIZING SPECIAL INERT GASEOUS ATMOSPHERE OR FLUSHING
MOLD WITH INERT LIQUID:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes wherein (1) a named nonreactive gas is used as
the environment for the shaping, working, or treating operation
on a material or (2) the ambient atmosphere of a mold is replaced
by a nonreactive liquid.
(1)
Note. To be placed in this subclass as an original patent
the invention claimed must specify a particular inert atmosphere
such as, for example, nitrogen or carbon dioxide. The term "inert" alone in
a claim is not sufficient to place the patent in this subclass.
Also air and steam have been excluded from this subclass even though
they may be claimed as inert materials.
REMOVAL OF LIQUID COMPONENT OR CARRIER THROUGH POROUS MOLD
SURFACE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes wherein a liquid component or liquid vehicle for
a moldable material is removed or separated from the material through
a foraminous shaping surface.
(1)
Note. The shaping surface for this subclass may have holes
extending there-through as in the case of a perforated sheet, or
the body of the mold may be absorbent as in the case of a porous
plaster mold which will absorb water.
Paper Making and Fiber Liberation, appropriate subclasses, for forming fibrous felted
products from slurries by draining the liquid carrier through a
foraminous mold surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 86. Processes which include the use of pneumatic pressure or
that created by a vacuum effect directly applied to the liquid to
aid in removal of the liquid through the mold surface.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes including the application of a reduced pressure,
below atmospheric, to a workpiece or molding material to effect
the chemical and/or physical properties or the condition
thereof.
This subclass is indented under subclass 101. Processes in which the vacuum is directly applied to a element
or material to remove trapped gases or prevent gases from being entrained
or trapped in a workpiece or material.
WITH TWINING, PLYING, BRAIDING, OR TEXTILE FABRIC FORMATION:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes which include a step of twining, braiding, plying
or twisting multiple elements about each other or the step of textile fabric
formation.
(1)
Note. The fabric formation may be by weaving, knitting, etc.
Textiles: Manufacturing, and the various species classes related thereto, for
textile operations, per se, not combined with a significant step
for this class.
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles,
subclasses 175+ , 190, 193, and 196+ for a stock material
product in the form of a single or plural layer web or sheet embodying
mechanically interengaged strands or strand-portions (e.g., weave,
or knit).
FORMING ELECTRICAL ARTICLES BY SHAPING ELECTROCONDUCTIVE MATERIAL:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes wherein a material which is capable of carrying
an electric current is plastically shaped to form an article in
which such electric current carrying function is utilized.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclasses 47+ for processes of making electrical conductors of
indefinite length not otherwise provided for, see (2) Note therein.
Compositions,
subclasses 500+ for compositions specialized for use as electrical
conductors or emitters or electrical devices for such use defined solely
in terms of the compositions of which they are composed.
Industrial Electric Heating Furnaces,
subclasses 88+ for electrodes for arc furnaces which are formed
from plastic materials. Subclasses 592.1+ of Class 29
constitute the generic place for making electrical devices, including
electrodes, from metal and include processes which include a metal working
operation.
Electric Lamp or Space Discharge Component or
Device Manufacturing,
subclasses 35+ , 46+ and 60+ and the classes
referred to in the notes thereto for other classes which provide
for method an apparatus for making electrodes for electric lamp
and electric space discharge devices.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes wherein an article has sound reproducing grooves
formed on its surface by a molding operation.
for processes of repairing or restoring articles
for use which involve removal of the sound grooves in a record and appropriate
subclasses under 239+ for molding operations which produce articles,
per se, which may be disclosed to have utility in making sound producing
records.
Electrolysis: Processes, Compositions Used Therein,
and Methods of Preparing the Compositions,
subclass 68 for electroforming methods of producing sound records.
Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers, appropriate subclasses, particularly Class 523,
subclass 174 for a composition containing a synthetic resin
or natural rubber having utility as a phonograph record molding
composition or to processes of preparing said composition.
ORIENTING OR ALIGNING SOLID PARTICLES IN FLUENT MATRIX
MATERIAL:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes in which particulate material or filler in a flowable
plastic mass is aligned, arranged or oriented while in said mass
to give a desired physical effect.
for processes in which electrical or wave energy
is applied directly to fibers or other particulate material to move,
align or effect deposition of said fibers or particles.
FORMING ARTICLES BY UNITING RANDOMLY ASSOCIATED PARTICLES:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes directed to bonding to each other individually
distinct particles which are associated randomly by bulk handling
or deposition to form a layer containing a major amount of the particulate
material.
(1)
Note. The relative sizes of the particles are immaterial,
however the particles must retain their discrete nature during the
associating and bonding operation. Further, the mere presence of
particles in a liquid carrier is not sufficient for this subclass
(e.g., fillers or slurries), this being considered to be the molding
of a fluent or liquid mass rather than the association of particles
and is provided for in appropriate subclasses below.
(2)
Note. The material is usually but not necessarily in the
form of fibers or granules and bonding of the particulate material
may be effected by applying an adhesive or by the latent adhesive
characteristics of the material.
for processes of molding (1) plastic compositions
containing particulate material as a filler; (2) colloidal or nonsettling
dispersions, e.g., rubber latex or clay; and (3) plastic particulate
material which lose their identity during molding to form a homogeneous
product and see (1) Note above.
Textiles: Fiber Preparation,
subclasses 144+ for a process of bringing particles together, for
example by air laying, and see the notes in subclasses 144+ for
the line between this class (264) and Class 19.
Fuel and Related Compositions,
subclasses 550+ for a solid fuel consolidation or shaping process
which goes beyond mere molding of a starting composition, especially
subclasses 596+ for a process which includes pressing using
a specified condition or technique.
Abrasive Tool Making Process, Material, or Composition, for a process of making an abrasive tool, material,
or composition for abrading purposes. Also see "Search
Class"" under the definition of Class 51 for related fields
of search for preparing abrasive material stock.
Glass Manufacturing,
subclasses 443+ for processes of forming glass fibers or filaments
from a glass melt combined with coating, which may include adhesively
bonding the fibers using any bonding medium or autogenously to form
a glass fiber felt or mat; subclasses 36+ for processes
of fusing glass fiber or particles to each other to form a felt.
See also the main definition to this class (264) for further delineation
of the line with Class 65.
Specialized Metallurgical Processes, Compositions
for Use Therein, Consolidated Metal Powder Compositions, and Loose
Metal Particulate Mixtures, see especially the notes thereto for the locus of other
art relating to particle uniting and
subclasses 228+ for a consolidated metal particle composition.
Presses,
subclasses 35+ for a method of intermingling and/or deforming particulate
material to mechanically unite the particles together at their respective
interfaces without use of a binder.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclass 62.2 for a process of forming a felted article by simultaneously
uniting of particles combined with the step of adhesively bonding
the felted article to another part.
Paper Making and Fiber Liberation,
subclasses 100+ for a process of forming an interfelted fibrous
product, e.g., paper interfelted fibrous product, e.g., paper from
a liquid fibrous suspension.
Distillation: Processes, Thermolytic,
subclasses 5+ for a process for a mechanical pressing or briquetting
of solid carbonaceous material combined with a thermolytic distillation
operation.
Powder Metallurgy Processes,
subclasses 61+ processes for making articles from metal particles
by pressure without heat and subclass 1 for similar processes which
use heat.
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles,
subclass 87 for a product with a pile or nap type surface and
including particulate matter, subclasses 143+ for a stock
material in the form of a single or plural layer web or sheet which
has a textured or rough surface comprising particulate matter, subclasses
323+ for a composite web or sheet including a component
having structurally defined particles, and subclasses 402+ for
structurally defined or coated particles.
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles,
subclass 324 , for a stock material product in the form of a
single or plural layer web or sheet including a component comprising
structurally defined mica, subclass 363 for a structurally defined
mica flake or mass or layer thereof, and subclasses 454+ for a
nonstructural composite sheet or web including a layer comprising mica.
This subclass is indented under subclass 109. Processes directed to forming an article having plural layers
by molding; at least one layer being formed by bonding of randomly
associated particles to each other.
This subclass is indented under subclass 112. Processes which includes forming at least two distinct layers
or strata of the formed article by a particle uniting operation.
(1)
Note. A process of simultaneously forming two layers of particulate
material and uniting them at their source of formation is within
the scope of this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 109. Processes including a step of initially forming the particles
from nonparticulate material or liberating them from a fiber or
particle containing material.
(1)
Note. Included in this and indented subclasses are, for example,
carding, grinding, cutting, etc., as well as forming particles by
a molding operation.
Glass Manufacturing,
subclasses 376+ for processes of forming glass fibers or filaments,
particularly subclasses 443+ and 454+ for processes of
forming glass fiber felt or mat by bulk assembly. For further delineation of
the line between Class 65 and Class 264 see the class definition
for Class 65, section III B.
Paper Making and Fiber Liberation,
subclasses 1+ for processes of chemical liberation, recovery
or purification of natural cellulose or fibrous material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 115. Processes in which the particles are liberated from a previously
manufactured article of associated interfelted fibers.
This subclass is indented under subclass 109. Processes directed to tumbling or otherwise agitating a
mass of fine discrete particle to cause adherence of the particles
to one another thereby producing larger size on particles.
(1)
Note. The above process is usually referred to in the art
as agglomeration or accretion.
Chemistry: Physical Processes,
subclasses 313+ for a process of agglomerating finely divided solid
nonmetallic elements or inorganic compounds to coalesce the elements
or compounds not involving use of a binder which remains as part
of the final product. The use of a fugitive binder, e.g., water
would not exclude the process from Class 23.
This subclass is indented under subclass 109. Processes which include the step of cutting, grooving, breaking
or comminuting the article formed from the united particles.
Solid Material Comminution or Disintegration, appropriate subclasses, e.g.,
subclass 4 for comminuting of laminated or fibrous material
and see sections 4 and 5 of the definitions of Class 241.
This subclass is indented under subclass 109. Processes which include applying pressure (1) which varies
stepwise in intensity or (2) intermittently or sequentially.
Conveyors: Fluid Current,
subclass 197 miscellaneous processes involving conveying solid
material with the assistance of a forced propelling fluid current.
Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus,
subclasses 80.1+ for a molding apparatus comprising means utilizing
an air current for randomly associating particulate material on
a shaping surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 109. Processes involving the use of (1) two or more kinds of
particles differing in composition or (2) particles of the same
composition but disclosed to be of different particle sizes.
(1)
Note. Where particles of different composition are employed,
these may bond autogenously at their surfaces, a liquid binder or
adhesive may be used or one of the kinds of particles may act as
a binder by, for example, losing its identity as a particle by melting
and flowing about or between the remaining solid particles.
(2)
Note. Where different sizes of particles of similar composition
are employed, said difference in size of the particles must be set
out, since it is understood that normally in particles handled in mass
or bulk, there will be minute differences in particle size although
the overall appearance thereof would indicate homogeneity.
This subclass is indented under subclass 109. Processes which include the step of treating the surface
of particulate material and/or a dry adhesive coating previously
applied to the particulate material, to render the surface of the material
tacky thereby causing bonding of the individual particles to each
other.
(1)
Note. The particulate material, usually thermo-plastic, is
treated with a fluid material which is not an adhesive, per se, and
usually is a solvent for the material, or by the application of
heat to render tacky the solid particulate material or dry coating
thereof.
for processes in which plural different solid particles
are united, one of which may act as an adhesive and which may or
may not retain its particle identity on, for example, application
of heat to activate it as an adhesive.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclasses 308.2+ for an adhesive bonding process which includes
tackifying the substance of a self-sustaining laminar to be bonded.
This subclass is indented under subclass 123. Processes which involves uniting particles containing a
natural binder which under uniting conditions functions to bond
the particles to each other.
(1)
Note. In this subclass may be found, for example, patents
relating to bonding cork particles.
This subclass is indented under subclass 123. Processes in which the autogenous bonding of the particles
is effected by the application of heat with or without pressure.
(1)
Note. Heat resulting from the application of pressure alone
is not considered to be a positive application of heat. Also, some
but not all of the particles may be melted; essentially the formed body
must be of joined particles, not particles liquified by heat. Patents
in which powdered or particulate material is completely melted are
provided for in subclasses 239+ based on various manipulative
molding steps.
This subclass is indented under subclass 109. Processes wherein a liquid adhesive is applied to the particulate
material subsequent to the assembly, association or deposition thereof.
(1)
Note. See the search notes in subclass 109 above pertaining
to processes in which particulate material, e.g., fillers and binder
material are mixed in a slurry prior to deposition thereof in a
mold.
for autogenous bonding of particles in which a liquid
or solvent which is not, per se, an adhesive is employed to render
the particles or surfaces thereof tacky or capable of adhesion.
for processes employing plural different solid particles
one of which may act as an adhesive and which may or may not retain
its identity as particle subsequent to uniting.
WITH PRINTING OR COATING OF WORKPIECE (OUT OF MOLD):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes including the step of applying a layer of fluent
material to the workpiece, which material is not restrained or confined
by a mold or shaping surface.
(1)
Note. For purposes of this subclass, application of a coating
to a shaped article is generally outside of a mold. Where an added
layer of material is applied to a previous layer while in the mold
it is assumed that the layer is subjected to mold shaping and thus
excluded, regardless of the thickness of said surface layer, unless
there is a specific disclosure that the coating is unrestrained.
(2)
Note. Treatment material, e.g., catalysts, solvents, softening
materials such as water, etc., are not considered coatings or impregnants
for this subclass.
(3)
Note. The general line between this class (264) and Class
427, Coating Processes, with regard to processes of reshaping or
deforming plus coating will be as follows:
a) Where a base is coated and the coating only is reshaped
or deformed, the patent will go in Class 427.
b) Where a base is coated and the subsequent reshaping or
deforming is applied to the coating and the contiguous surface to
which the coating is applied, without an overall reshaping of the
base and without altering the shape of any noncoated surface, the
patent will go to Class 427.
c) Where a base is surface deformed only on one side or area
so that there is no overall reshaping of the entire base, and the
deformed surface is subsequently coated, the patent will go to Class
427.
d) Where a base is coated and there is subsequent overall
reshaping of the resulting coated article or, when the base is in
the form of a planar sheet or web, there is subsequent reshaping
of both surfaces, e.g., corrugating, the patent will go to Class
264.
e) Where there is surface deformation of only one surface
of a base, the opposed surface remaining unaltered, and the unaltered
surface is coated, the patent will go to Class 264.
f) Where a base is reshaped overall or where opposing surfaces
are reshaped, deformed, e.g., embossed, and then coated either on
one or both deformed surfaces, the patent will go to Class 264.
g) Where a base is coated and subsequently said coated article
is surface deformed, e.g., embossed through the coating and a portion
of the base on opposed sides or surfaces, the patent will go to
Class 264.
(4)
Note. For nominal molding followed by a significant coating
step see Class 427, Coating Processes.
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, appropriate subclasses, for a stock material product in
the form of a composite web or sheet, especially
subclasses 411+ for plural layer products not elsewhere provided
for.
This subclass is indented under subclass 129. Processes wherein the coating has the function of preventing
adhesion or sticking between the formed articles and/or
adjacent material, surfaces or objects.
This subclass is indented under subclass 129. Processes wherein the printing or coating is applied to
the workpiece to provide planned ornamentation or intelligence at
the surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 129. Processes wherein the base that is coated embodies a material
containing clay, concrete, sand or other earthy material.
for processes of firing, sintering or vitrifying
of shaped articles or preforms having combined steps of shaping
and coating outside of the mold prior to or subsequent to the firing steps.
This subclass is indented under subclass 129. Processes in which the workpiece has either a fluent layer
applied to its surface by a coating operation or the interstices
of a porous body are at least partially filled by said fluent material prior
to a shaping operation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 134. Processes including the step of molding or shaping plastic
material against the coated or impregnated preform and uniting said
plastic material to said preform.
This subclass is indented under subclass 134. Processes which includes the step of applying fluent material
to a fibrous, interfelted or porous preform so that at least a portion
of the fluent material enters the interstices of the preform.
WITH SEVERING, REMOVING MATERIAL FROM PREFORM MECHANICALLY,
OR MECHANICALLY SUBDIVIDING WORKPIECE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes which include a step of 1) penetrating a shaped
product from one face to another to cause at least a partial separation
of the product, 2) tearing an article, 3) removing material from
an article by means of a solid tool or implement, or 4) forming
a comminuted product.
(1)
Note. The formation of grooves and ridges in the surface
of a workpiece resulting from a cutting separation of only the surface
material does not come here but is placed in the appropriate subclasses
below, e.g., subclasses 284 and 293.
(2)
Note. For purposes of this subclass, the penetration need
not necessarily be by a sharp tool but may be made by locally applied
heat, for example.
(3)
Note. Severing a mold charge from a fluent plastic bulk source
is not considered cutting for this and indented subclasses.
(4)
Note. To be placed herein, the operation must be performed
on a shaped article or preform. Mixing, mulling, kneading of plastic
materials are excluded.
Solid Material Comminution or Disintegration, appropriate subclasses for processes for solid material
comminuting and see particularly note 4 of the definitions to Class
241 for the line as to the combination of shaping plus comminuting.
This subclass is indented under subclass 138. Processes wherein a facing layer portion of a multilayered
body is removed to expose an area of an underlying layer.
(1)
Note. The facing layer may be removed to produce a decorative
effect, by way of example.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclasses 250+ , appropriate subclasses, particularly subclass
270 for laminating combined with the step of cutting one lamina
only.
This subclass is indented under subclass 138. Processes combined with the step of cutting or comminuting
the formed product to produce flakes, shreds or pellets therefrom.
Solid Material Comminution or Disintegration, appropriate subclasses and see section 4 of the
definitions thereof as to the line between this class and Class
241 for the combination of shaping plus subsequent comminuting.
This subclass is indented under subclass 140. Processes where the flaked, shredded or pelleted product
is formed from a material continuously extruded from a shaping orifice.
(1)
Note. Where the cut-off product is of such size, length or
character as to be handled as individual units, the process will
be classified in subclasses 148+ below.
This subclass is indented under subclass 141. Processes where a knife engaging the extrusion die face
is moved across the extrusion orifice to cut the extruded material
into the desired flakes, pellets or shreds.
This subclass is indented under subclass 140. Processes including the step of initially forming a continuous
product by casting on a moving drum or belt.
(1)
Note. As an example of the subject matter of this subclass
is a process in which a plastic material is calendered, formed as
a sheet on one of the calender rolls, then removed in the form of
flakes.
This subclass is indented under subclass 146. Processes where a continuously formed web is slit longitudinally
into two or more filamentary or thread-like strips.
This subclass is indented under subclass 145. Processes wherein an extruded material is cut in a direction
transverse to the direction of movement away from the extrusion
die to produce discrete portions of a desired length.
for processes wherein the pieces of cutoff extruded
material are of such small size as to be considered particulate,
e.g., pellets fibers or staple fibers.
This subclass is indented under subclass 148. Processes wherein plastic material is extruded around a
core which moves with the shaped material thereon to the cutting
station.
This subclass is indented under subclass 138. Processes which includes a step of joining the severed portions
or parts.
(1)
Note. The joinder of the severed portions or parts may or
may not be at the cut edges. As, for example, the slitting of the
edges of a web or sheet and overlapping and securing the cut edges,
or the splitting of a workpiece with subsequent reuniting with the
cut faces exposed.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclasses 250+ for cutting and laminating of plastic or the like
cut parts or materials, e.g., subclass 251 pertaining to cut- seaming.
This subclass is indented under subclass 138. Processes in which articles are severed from sheet material
by a cutting action simultaneously on all areas being cut.
(1)
Note. The article is usually severed by means of a configured
cutting die.
This subclass is indented under subclass 138. Processes in which the operation involves either forming
an aperture or opening (1) which does not completely penetrate the
article and material is removed or (2) which completely penetrates
the article with or without material removal therefrom.
(1)
Note. Search subclasses 284 and 293 for embossing operations
in which surface deformations are made in a preform which do not
extend through the preform and no material is removed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 138. Processes in which a workpiece is divided into two or more
sections to form a plurality of articles.
(1)
Note. Excluded from this subclass are processes punching
plural articles from a sheet or web in which the sheet left after punching
out the desired articles may be considered to be waste, or wherein
the dividing is for the purpose of removing attached waste material,
e.g., flash or sprue. The entire work blank must be utilized.
This subclass is indented under subclass 157. Processes where the dividing consists of the cutting of
relatively thin sheets from a work piece generally along a plane
parallel to the major face of the produced sheet.
This subclass is indented under subclass 138. Processes where material removed from an article consists
of (1) excess material forced out between meeting faces of a multipart closed
mold and/or (2) excess material shaped by molding material
admitting or injecting means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 138. Processes wherein an integral portion of the surface of
a shaped preform is removed by a grinding, scraping, or abrasive
action.
This subclass is indented under subclass 138. Processes in which the material separating operation is
performed (1) while the same area is being plastically reshaped
or (2) while the plastically formed material is still in contact with
the forming mold, die or surface.
UNCONFINED DRAWING OR EXTENDING OF A PLASTIC MASS TO MAKE ARTICLE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes wherein the article is formed by the free and
unconfined pulling out of a plastic mass.
(1)
Note. The surface configuration of the article formed is
imparted solely by the extension and not by coaction of the plastic
mass with a shape imparting mold surface.
(2)
Note. Kneading or mulling operations, per se, e.g., taffy
pulling type are not included herein in that a shaped article is not
produced. See subclass 349 and the notes thereto for such subject
matter.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes which are directed to the molding of a continuous,
running or indefinite length body of which at least one molded element
or component thereof is unitary in nature as is formed by an uninterrupted
molding step.
(1)
Note. Processes relating to forming of plural finite elements
and combining these elements mechanically to each other to form
a running length article, e.g., a chain or other mechanically interlocked
article consisting of plural parts are classified elsewhere, see
the note to subclass 242 below.
(2)
Note. Processes wherein a continuous article of varying composition
is produced by intermittent charges of molding material of varying
composition in the forming device are included herein.
(3)
Note. Where layered, stratified or plural element containing
indefinite or continuous articles are produced, at least one element,
layer or stratum must be unitary in structure as set out in the
definition or (2) Note above.
(4)
Note. The final article produced need not be of indefinite
length, for example, forming a thread and winding the thread into
a finite article is included here.
(5)
Note. The line between this class (264) and Classes 8, Bleaching
and Dyeing; Fluid Treatment and Chemical Modification of Textiles
and Fibers, and 427 Coating Processes, in regard to the fluid treatment
of coagulated, extruded or otherwise shaped plastic materials is
that fluid treatments of the formed structures, whether previously
dried or not, as well as processes which recite broadly the mere
fact of forming (without stating any significant forming step as
would be included in this class under the definitions) combined
with a significant subsequent fluid treatment are placed in either of
Classes 8 or 427, in accordance with the line existing therebetween
and set forth in the reference to Class 8 in the class definition
of Class 427. See also the definitions to this class (264), and
see the notes and search notes to subclasses 129, 188, 195, 196,
232, and 340 of this class (264).
for processes of forming composite plural part or
multilayered articles wherein said parts are joined for relative
movement, e.g., chain or interlock effect.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture, particularly
subclasses 167 and 243 for forming of continuous laminae combined
with a laminating step.
Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or treating:
Apparatus, appropriate subclasses for corresponding apparatus, especially
subclasses 67+ , for filament or film forming apparatus, subclass
224 for fluent stock casting apparatus for forming continuous lengths
and subclasses 376.1+ for an extrusion shaping machine.
This subclass is indented under subclass 165. Processes including (1) a step of forming a mold or shaping
element for the work or (2) a step of destroying a mold or shaping
element subsequent to the molding step.
for forming a continuous length article by molding
on or around discrete axially aligned preforms, which preform may
be destroyed in part, or comminuted.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclass 155 for laminating processes including the step of
destroying a transitory material or element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 165. Processes wherein the formed article is nonuniform cross-sectionally
throughout its length which may result from a gradual change in transverse
dimensions or through intermittent or repeated irregularities therein,
said article being of monolithic construction.
(1)
Note. In this subclass may be found, for example, processes
for producing filaments of irregular denier.
for framing continuous length articles which are
stratified or layered even though cross-sectional area irregularities
may exist through spaced elements thereon.
This subclass is indented under subclass 165. Processes wherein a crimped, creped or crinkled effect is
imparted to the formed articles which may be from a physical treatment
or inherently resulting from the ingredients and/or chemical
processes employed in the article formation or subsequent thereto.
Bleaching and Dyeing; Fluid Treatment and Chemical
Modification of Textiles and Fibers,
subclass 117 for processes involving a chemical modification
of textile materials to produce a wool like or crinkle effect.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclass 183 for laminating processes which include a creping,
wrinkling or crinkling step, and subclasses 196+ for laminating
processes including a permanent bending or reshaping of a self sustaining
lamina.
Paper Making and Fiber Liberation,
subclasses 111+ and 280+ for processes and apparatus for
creping or crinkling paper-like webs or sheets while still wet from
the forming operation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 165. Processes which include steps for prevention or removal
of incrustations and other equipment fouling accumulations.
This subclass is indented under subclass 169. Processes wherein said fouling accumulations are prevented
by means of an additive chemical agent or ingredient in the article
forming material or in the forming or treating bath therefor.
Compositions: Coating or Plastic, appropriate subclasses for employing a specific
additive to a spinning solution to prevent clogging of spinnerettes.
Where claims are drawn in such a manner that the anticlogging agent may
be either the bath or spinning solution then the patent will be
placed as an original in this class (264), and cross-reference to
Class 106.
This subclass is indented under subclass 165. Processes directed to methods of forming indefinite or running
length articles comprising plural diverse elements or components
in a contiguous relationship in a cross-section taken through said
article, said contiguity extending for at least a portion of the
length of the article.
(1)
Note. This subclass does not
include the simultaneous extrusion of a plurality of filaments which
are then merely gathered into a yarn or thread in a parallel or contiguous
relationship.
(2)
Note. Where discrete elements are axially aligned on a continuous
base, said elements being either spaced or in butt relationship,
the patent is properly classified in this subclass.
(3)
Note. In the formation of indefinite length filaments, particularly
viscose, filaments with differentiated "skin" and "core" which
may be produced from a homogeneous material and such processes will
be classified below in appropriate subclasses according to method
or material employed.
(4)
Note. Processes of forming "sheath-core" or "islands
in the sea" composites, strands, or filaments are properly
classified below in appropriate subclasses.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture, subclasses
167+ and
244.11+for
formation of a lamina or laminae by extrusion followed by adhesive
bonding to form a laminate.
This subclass is indented under subclass 171.1. Processes wherein a plurality of discrete preforms or bases
of finite length are aligned in abutment or end-to-end relationship,
not necessarily in physical contact, with formation of an indefinite
or continuous layer of plastic material on or about said preforms.
for processes of
forming an indefinite length body in which a core mold or shaping
surface may be formed or the core mold or shaping surface employed
in the process is removed or destroyed, wherein at least for an interval
of time, the mold and the molding material may be in a composite
relationship.
for processes in
which reshaping of a solid noncontinuous preform is effected by
establishing a rubbing, wiping or sliding action between the preform
and a shaping surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 171.1. Processes wherein a hollow article or hollow stock material
which is self sustaining is subjected to a shaping or reshaping
operation.
for processes in which a core mold may be formed
or the core mold employed in the process is removed or destroyed,
wherein at least for an interval of time, the mold and the molding
material may be in a composite relationship.
Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers, particularly Classes 523 and 524 for a synthetic
resin or natural rubber composition which may be disclosed or claimed
to possess utility as molding materials.
This subclass is indented under subclass 171.14. Processes wherein (a) the metal preform is either helical
or coiled or (b) a helical or coiled layer is shaped to the metal
preform.
This subclass is indented under subclass 171.14. Processes wherein the layered metal preform is a ribbon,
tape, or sheet or is shaped to form a ribbon, tape, or sheet.
This subclass is indented under subclass 171.13. Processes wherein a layer
formed on the preform contains (a) polyamide or (b) addition polymer
of at least one monoethylenically unsaturated monomer.
(1)
Note. See the definitions of this Class 264 for the line between
this class and the composition classes, especially Class 520.
Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers, particularly Class 523 and Class 524 for a synthetic
resin or natural rubber composition which may be disclosed or claimed
to possess utility as molding materials.
This subclass is indented under subclass 171.13. Processes wherein a layer formed on the preform contains
material which is either natural rubber or thermosetting resin.
Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers, particularly Class 523 and Class 524 for a synthetic
resin or natural rubber composition which may be disclosed or claimed
to possess utility as molding materials.
for processes in which a core mold may be formed
or the core mold employed in the process is removed or destroyed,
wherein at least for an interval of time, the mold and the molding
material may be in a composite relationship.
This subclass is indented under subclass 171.26. Processes directed to a hollow composite which has more
than two layers wherein the material comprising at least one of
the layers is dissimilar.
This subclass is indented under subclass 171.26. Processes wherein the hollow
composite has a layer which contains (a) polyamide or (b) addition
polymer of at least one monoethylenically unsaturated monomer.
(1)
Note. See the definitions of this Class 264for
the line between this class and the composition classes, especially
Class 520.
Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers, particularly Class 523 and Class 524 for a synthetic
resin or natural rubber composition which may be disclosed or claimed
to possess utility as molding materials.
This subclass is indented under subclass 171.26. Processes which comprise turning or revolving (a) a surface
used to form or shape or (b) material being formed or shaped.
This subclass is indented under subclass 171.26. Processes wherein the hollow composite is cross-sectionally
uniform and not circular (e.g., elliptical, star, hexagonal, dog-bone,
etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 171.1. Processes directed to forming composites consisting of
solid, singular, or plural, or twisted groups of slender, flexible,
rodlike materials.
This subclass is indented under subclass 172.11. Processes wherein the composite strand, filament or thread
is cross-sectionally uniform and not circular (e.g., elliptical,
star, hexagonal, dog-bone, etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 172.11. Processes directed to shaping a composite strand, filament
or thread having a discontinuous phase material (island) and a continuous
phase material (sea), usually of different composition.
(1)
Note. The island phase material usually has a different melt
index than the sea phase material. Extrusion or melt spinning are
common shaping methods utilized in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 172.11. Processes wherein the composite strand, filament or thread
is produced by forcing different materials through separate openings
in a die or spinneret in which individual strands, filaments, or
threads are formed adjacent one another.
This subclass is indented under subclass 172.11. Processes wherein the composite strand, filament or thread
is produced by forcing different materials through separate openings
in a die or spinneret in which one fiber or filament is substantially
enclosed in the other (sheath-core type).
This subclass is indented under subclass 172.11. Processes wherein the composite strand, filament, or thread
forming material is forced through a shaping device or orifice into a
liquid bath.
This subclass is indented under subclass 172.11. Processes wherein the composite strand, filament, or thread
is shaped by forcing a melt through an appropriately sized orifice.
This subclass is indented under subclass 172.17. Processes wherein the composite strand,
filament, or thread has a layer which contains (a) polyamide or
(b) addition polymer of at least one monoethylenically unsaturated monomer.
(1)
Note. See the definitions of this Class 264for
the line between this class and the composition classes, especially
Class 520.
Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers, particularly Classes 523 and 524 for a synthetic
resin or natural rubber composition which may be disclosed or claimed
to possess utility as molding materials.
This subclass is indented under subclass 172.19. Processes wherein the shaping
surface is generally circular in cross-section and designed to rotate
about an internal axis.
This subclass is indented under subclass 171.1. Processes directed to forming
a composite which has more than two layers wherein the material
comprising at least one of the layers is dissimilar.
This subclass is indented under subclass 173.11. Processes wherein the multi-layered, indefinite length body
is formed by forcing a melt through a confining orifice whereby
the cross-sectional area of the extruded portion corresponds to
the dimensions of the orifice.
This subclass is indented under subclass 173.12. Processes wherein at least one layer contains (a) polyamide
or (b) addition polymer of at least one monoethylenically unsaturated monomer.
(1)
Note. See the definitions of this Class 264 for the line between
this class and the composition classes, especially Class 520.
Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers, particularly Class 523 and Class 524 for a synthetic
resin or natural rubber composition which may be disclosed or claimed
to possess utility as molding materials.
This subclass is indented under subclass 173.12. Processes wherein the formed
article is subjected to a deforming, (e.g., by plastic flow, bending,
stretching, twisting, corrugating, etc.) so as to alter its overall
shape.
This subclass is indented under subclass 171.1. Processes wherein a layered
indefinite length body is formed by forcing a melt through a dual
confining orifice whereby the cross-sectional area of the two extruded
portions corresponds to the dimensions of the orifice.
This subclass is indented under subclass 173.16. Processes wherein the co-extruded material
is cross-sectionally uniform and not circular (e.g., elliptical,
star, hexagonal, dog-bone, etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 173.16. Process which includes (a) a step of incorporating a colorant
(e.g., dye, pigment, etc.) directly in the shaping material such
that an article is formed having at least one layer of nonrandom
color, or (b) producing a layered article wherein each layer is
of different color.
for processes including dyeing of a shaped article
or preform, or including a step of incorporating a dye susceptible
material (i.e., precursor) in the shaping material and followed
by subsequent exposure to a reactant for the dye susceptible material
to produce the color (e.g., such as found in a coagulant bath, etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 173.16. Processes wherein at least one layer contains (a) polyamide
or (b) addition polymer of at least one monoethylenically unsaturated monomer.
(1)
Note. See the definitions of this Class 264 for the line between
this class and the composition classes, especially Class 520.
Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers, particularly Class 523 and Class 524 for a synthetic
resin or natural rubber composition which may be disclosed or claimed
to possess utility as molding materials.
This subclass is indented under subclass 165. Processes in which the continuous product is produced from
an unformed mass which is forced between a pair of coacting, continuously moving
surfaces.
(1)
Note. Included herein, for example, is shaping a mass by
passing it between a pair of rolls, a roll and an endless belt or a
pair of endless belts.
(2)
Note. Where the patent discloses calendering of a previously
formed indefinite length article, e.g., altering the thickness thereof
by passing through pressure rolls, the patent will not be placed herein,
since such an operation is considered to be a reshaping rather than
an actual forming of a continuous or indefinite length article,
see the search notes below.
for casting of materials on a solid shaping surface
in which a doctor knife may be employed for smoothing the upper
surface of or regulating the thickness of the cast article.
This subclass is indented under subclass 165. Processes wherein an article is shaped or formed by extruding
or forcing a supply of the article forming material through a confining and
shaping orifice
Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus,
subclasses 376.1+ for an extrusion shaping machine or nonmetals;
see the search notes thereunder.
This subclass is indented under subclass 176. Processes wherein formation is by extrusion through an orifice
so shaped as to produce solid, cross-sectionally uniform articles
which are other than circular or linear in cross-section.
(1)
Note. Extrusion through circular orifices or elongated linear
slit orifices to produce conventional filaments, rods, films, sheet,
etc., are classified on some other basis. To be placed herein, a
patent must disclose the use of an extruding orifice of a particular
cross-sectional shape to produce a shaped article other than those set
out above.
This subclass is indented under subclass 177.1. Processes wherein the material being processed is other
than a natural or a synthetic resin, e.g., ceramic material soap,
cellulose, glue, etc.
(1)
Note. This subclass is not intended to include synthetic
resins which meet the definition of Class 520.
(2)
Note. A process for extruding a nonresionus material wherein
a resin binder is employed conventionally as an auxiliary agent
is considered proper for this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 177.1. Processes wherein the product produced is a filament or
fiber having a particular cross-section, e.g., T-configured, dog-bone,
trilobal, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 177.1. Processes wherein the configuration of the extruder die
is specified, other than merely the shape of a fixed die orifice,
e.g., long land die, tapered die, plural distinct zones, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 177.1. Processes wherein the the extrudate is further processed
or treated in some manner, e.g., supported manipulated by means
of a guide, reshaped, coagulated, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 177.17. Processes wherein temperature is employed to treat the extrudate,
e.g., quenching, heat softening for reshaping, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 177.1. Processes wherein the material extruded includes reinforcement,
filler or another additive for a special use.
This subclass is indented under subclass 176. Processes wherein formation takes place by extrusion of
the article forming material through a shaping device or orifice
into a liquid bath.
(1)
Note. This and indented subclasses include, for example,
extruding into a cooling, heating or reactive bath.
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Processes wherein ingredients are added to or removed from
the bath, or the bath is treated, so as to maintain the desired
composition.
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Processes in which the liquid of said forming or receiving
bath is in motion.
(1)
Note. Incidental disturbance or movement of the liquid which
may occur by the unconfined passage of a formed article therethrough
is not sufficient to place a patent in this subclass. However, disclosure
that the formed article in passing through a restricted tube placed
in the bath whereby a current of liquid is created and carried therethrough
by frictional contact with the formed article, is within the scope
of this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 180. Processes wherein the motion of the liquid induces or is
concomitant with stretching therein of the formed article.
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Processes wherein the bath contains ingredients which react
chemically with ingredients in the extruded forming material to
coagulate, set or form the element or component.
(1)
Note. See the class definition for the general line between
this class and composition classes, per se. Where a patent claims
only the precipitating or coagulating bath for use solely in formation
of indefinite length articles by extrusion of article forming material
therein, the patent will go to this class as an original in the
appropriate subclass based on the disclosure. Mere recitation of
spinning a composition into a reactive bath broadly recited or an "acidic" reactive
bath is not considered significant molding but recitation of the
pH or pH range of the bath is considered significant.
for processes in which a spinning solution containing
a dye susceptible material or a material capable of forming a dye
is extruded into a setting bath disclosed to contain a reactant
capable of converting said material into a colored element.
Compositions: Coating or Plastic,
subclasses 162.1+ , particularly subclasses 166.01+ for carbohydrate
or derivative containing compositions which may be disclosed to
have utility as spinning solutions and see the main line between
this class (264) and the composition classes as set out in the class
definitions of this class (264) which is relative to patents claiming
a process of spinning a specific composition into a reactive bath,
per se, or an "acidic" bath wherein none of the ingredients
of said bath is named, or where no specific pH is recited.
for processes employing viscose spinning solutions
which contain an added organic ingredient which ingredient may be
resinifiable or polymerizable at a subsequent stage.
Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers, particularly Class 523,
subclasses 447+ and 509, and Class 524, subclasses 9+,
27+, 716, and 732+ for a nonreactant carbohydrate
or derivative admixed with a polymer proper for Class 520.
Compositions: Coating or Plastic,
subclasses 163.01+ for cellulose derivative plastic compositions,
per se, which are disclosed to have utility as a spinning composition.
This subclass is indented under subclass 188. Processes in which the reactive or coagulating bath contains
an organic compound.
(1)
Note. Where the patent claims only the reactive or coagulating
bath or composition thereof and the disclosure indicates the sole
use of said bath is for the formation of viscose articles, the patent
will be placed in this and/or the indented subclasses as
an original.
This subclass is indented under subclass 188. Processes wherein the formed article is further treated
with a chemically reactive agent.
(1)
Note. The step of washing or dehydrating, with water or other
nonchemically reactive liquid, is not included within the scope
of this subclass but are classified on some other basis.
(2)
Note. See the notes and search notes in subclass 165 which
refer to fluid or coating treatments provided for in Classes 8, Bleaching
and Dyeing; Fluid Treatment and Chemical Modification of Textiles and
Fibers, and Class 427, Coating Processes, respectively.
This subclass is indented under subclass 188. Processes wherein the formation of the article takes place
in two or more stages, employing either the same or different coagulating
or generating baths, said plural baths containing either similar
or dissimilar coagulating or regenerating reagents.
This subclass is indented under subclass 196. Processes wherein the formed article is stretched either
between treatments in coagulating or regenerating baths or subsequent thereto.
This subclass is indented under subclass 188. Processes wherein the formed viscose article is subjected
to a subsequent mechanical working or shaping step.
(1)
Note. Since stretching is a conventional operation in the
formation of indefinite length articles, a search in appropriate subclasses
above will be necessary where an article forming operation combined
with a nominally recited stretching step is set out in a viscose
process. However, a patent classified above disclosing or claiming
a significant stretching step in a viscose process will be crossed
here.
Compositions: Coating or Plastic,
subclasses 163.01+ , appropriate subclasses for cellulose or cellulose derivative
compositions, per se, within the class definitions, which may be
disclosed to be suitable as spinning compositions or solutions.
for production of indefinite length articles by
extrusion of synthetic resinous containing material into a reactive
bath wherein said material may be disclosed to be rubbery in nature.
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Processes wherein the article is formed by extraction of
the solvent from an article forming solution by the bath liquid
on extrusion of said solution therein.
This subclass is indented under subclass 176. Processes in which the article is formed by extrusion into
an evaporative atmosphere of a solution of article forming material
with subsequent solidification thereof, by removal of the solvent
of said solution through evaporation.
for processes wherein the solvent of the article
forming material solution is removed by an extractive liquid in which
said material is relatively insoluble.
for forming continuous or indefinite length articles
combined with mold or core formation or destruction, removal, comminution,
or separation of mold core or preform.
This subclass is indented under subclass 209.1. Processs including rotational or translational movement
of a material shaping member in the extruding step.
This subclass is indented under subclass 209.3. Processes wherein extruded product is reshaped to achieve
specific dimensions.
(1)
Note. For example, an extruded tube may be reshaped to a
specific diameter or wall thickness.
(2)
Note. To reshape to different configuration is not considered
to be sizing, e.g., changing from a tubular shape to a rectangular
shape is not sizing.
This subclass is indented under subclass 209.1. Processes wherein at least some of the material being shaped
is polymerized or cured, e.g., cross-linked, vulcanized, etc., during
the extrusion.
(1)
Note. Cross-linking herein includes cross-linking of thermoplastic
as well as thermosetting materials.
This subclass is indented under subclass 209.1. Processes wherein at least two different temperatures are
used at some point or time during the extrusion of the material.
(1)
Note. A different temperature applied to the material subsequent
to extrusion from the die is not sufficient to place in this subclass.
(2)
Note. A different temperature at the outer wall of the extruder
from the temperature of the inner (mandrel) wall is sufficient for
this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 209.1. Processes wherein special features of the flow channel in
the extruder are included, e.g., varying dimensions of the flow
channel or varying the direction of flow of material in the extruder,
etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 176. Process which includes the additional step of stretching
or permanently reshaping the formed article.
(1)
Note. Classification of patents in this and indented subclasses.
Patents should not be cross-referenced to this or its indented subclasses
on the basis of disclosure, unless an unusual feature of the extrusion
step or an unusual interrelationship between the extrusion and reforming
steps is disclosed. Subclasses 239+ provide more specifically
for molding and reshaping operations and are the preferred loci
for such disclosures.
This subclass is indented under subclass 210.1. Process in which some or all of the reshaping is due to
a force other than tension, e.g., pressure, etc.
(1)
Note. The pressure must do more than merely hold the workpiece,
establish a neck-down point, etc.
(2)
Note. The process may also include a sequential operation
wherein tension is applied or removed, or a simultaneous application
or removal of tension, when it is clear that the reshaping is partly
due to each mechanism.
This subclass is indented under subclass 210.1. Process wherein the workpiece, after extrusion, and before,
during, or after reshaping, in contacted with a material other than
air or water (including steam, water vapor, etc.).
(1)
Note. The agent may remain with the workpiece or may be used
merely for heating, cooling, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 210.3. Process wherein the application takes place during the final
shape change, e.g., by spraying with inert liquid while shrinking,
etc., or after the final shape change.
This subclass is indented under subclass 210.1. Process wherein a workpiece having its final shape is heated
or held at an elevated temperature, whether in or out of the mold;
or wherein the heating or cooling of a workpiece is nonuniform across
the cross-section of the workpiece, e.g., the edges of a moving
web are held at a temperature lower than the central portion, etc.
for a shaping or molding process wherein the workpiece
is heated by direct application of electrical or wave energy (e.g.,
infrared heat, etc.) to the work.
This subclass is indented under subclass 210.1. Process wherein the workpiece is stated to contain a --material
not in itself plastic, e.g., a plasticizer, solvent, etc., or wherein
a step is performed upon the material which is to become the workpiece
before it is extruded, e.g., comminuting, adjusting viscosity, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 210.1. Process wherein an extruded workpiece is subjected to stretching
by tension in more than one stage.
(1)
Note. Some criteria for determining when stretching occurs
in more than one stage are the following: (a) The interposition
of a nonstretching step, such as heating or shrinking between stretching steps,
during which step no stretching occurs. (b) An abrupt change of
stretching conditions, such as the tension force.
This subclass is indented under subclass 210.1. Process wherein the material extruded and reshaped is elongate
material having a width about equal to its thickness.
(1)
Note. The fibers may be individual monofilaments or may be
bundled together as a yarn or tow.
This subclass is indented under subclass 176. Processes wherein the article forming material contains
and added (1) nonarticle forming agent or (2) agent chemically modifying
the article forming material.
(1)
Note. The added agent may be, for example, flux lubricant,
plasticizer, or a dispersing agent such as a small amount of solvent
insufficient to form a liquid solution thereof.
This subclass is indented under subclass 176.1. Processes wherein centripetal force is employed to convey
the article forming material.
(1)
Note. A method utilizing the normal force developed when
a visco-elastic material is sheared between a rotating plate and
a stationary plate, having a central orifice, to cause centripetal
flow of the material between the disc and orifice and issuance in
plasticized condition from the orifice is proper subject matter for
this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 176.1. Processes wherein the material being processed is other
than a natural or a synthetic resin, e.g., ceramic material, soap,
cellulose material, etc.
(1)
Note. This subclass is not intended to include synthetic
resins which meet the definition of Class 520.
This subclass is indented under subclass 176.1. Processes wherein the extruded material is subsequently
manipulated, reacted or otherwise processed after extrusion.
(1)
Note. Contain of the extend material with guides or windup
devices render a method proper for this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 211.12. Process wherein the extrudate is contacted with a fluid,
other than ambient air, in order to manipulate, influence the temperature of,
or otherwise affect the product.
This subclass is indented under subclass 211.14. Processes wherein the extrudate is treated in at least two
different zone or stages, at least one of the treatments being with
a fluid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 211.14. Processes wherein the fluid extracts a component of the
extrudate or effects a reaction in the extrudate.
This subclass is indented under subclass 211.13. Processes wherein the extrudate is treated in at least two
different zones or stages, at least one of the treatments being
with a fluid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 211.13. Processes wherein the fluid extracts a component of the
extrudate or effects a reaction in the extrudate.
This subclass is indented under subclass 176.1. Processes wherein a screw device is employed in the extruder
or as a feeder or material worker for the extruder.
This subclass is indented under subclass 211.21. Processes wherein the extruder employs more than one screw;
more than one screw extruder; or plural different stages.
(1)
Note. Extruders using different temperatures in different
zones, or having threads of different pitch in different zones are
proper for this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 176.1. Processes wherein some curing or polymerization reaction,
or coagulation of rubber, is indicated to take place in the extruder.
This subclass is indented under subclass 165. Processes wherein the indefinite length article is formed
by depositing forming material in liquid form on a solid forming
surface and solidifying the liquid to form the article.
(1)
Note. The use of a doctor knife to smooth the upper surface
of the cast liquid layer or to adjust the thickness thereof is considered
to be within the scope of this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 212. Processes in which removal of the formed article from the
forming surface is facilitated by the use of anti-stick or adhesion
preventing materials.
This subclass is indented under subclass 212. Processes wherein the forming surface is dipped or immersed
in a supply of liquid forming material to acquire the deposit of
the necessary layer of said material thereon.
This subclass is indented under subclass 217. Processes in which the cast article is precipitated, coagulated
or made self sustaining by a subsequent treatment while on the casting
surface either by an added reactant applied thereto or in a liquid
precipitating or coagulating body.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes which include the step of producing (1) a shaping
or molding device either as a, per se, operation by a method within
the definitions of this class or (2) in combination with a step
of employing said shaping or molding device in the production of
a molded product by a process classifiable in this class in which
latter instance the molding or shaping device may be formed by methods
provided for elsewhere.
(1)
Note. Patents reciting merely the application or formation
of mold linings on molding surfaces are not within the scope of
this subclass and are classified on some other bases.
(2)
Note. Patents reciting processes for manufacturing or assembling
molds not specifically provided for herein are classified in various
other classes depending on the specific manufacturing step employed,
e.g., Class 29, Metal Working, Class 156, Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous
Chemical Manufacture, etc.
Electrolysis: Processes, Compositions Used Therein,
and Methods of Preparing the Compositions,
subclasses 69 and 70 for processes of electroforming printing
plates, molds and the like.
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Processes in which an area or shape to be duplicated is
employed to form or produce a duplicating pattern or mold surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 220. Processes in which the mold or a portion thereof is destroyed,
dissolved, or broken, so as to dissociate or release the formed
article therefrom.
Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus,
subclass 2 for shaping apparatus utilizing an anatomical body
or portion thereof as a shaping surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 220. Processes in which a surface which is to be reproduced either
in making a molding form or a final article is inverted inside out
by resilient flexing or deforming.
This subclass is indented under subclass 225. Processes in which the forming area to be reproduced is
formed by a molding operation or is treated or conditioned to facilitate
such reproduction.
This subclass is indented under subclass 226. Processes which includes a formation of a negative of the
surface to be reproduced followed by a formation of a positive surface
which is to be used itself as a pattern or mold.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes wherein a composite concrete article is formed
in which the concrete component is under compressive stress.
Metal Working,
subclasses 446+ and especially subclass 452 for forming stressed
concrete when the stressing element is applied to a self sustaining concrete
body.
PRESTRESSING SOLID BODY AND UNITING IN STRESSED CONDITION
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes wherein a solid body is placed under stress and
united to another body or mass of molded material while maintaining
said stressed condition.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes wherein a solid body is under stress and has such
stress removed by heat application with simultaneous reduction of
at least one dimension to return or attempt to return the body to
its original shape.
DISPARATE TREATMENT OF ARTICLE SUBSEQUENT TO WORKING, MOLDING,
OR SHAPING:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes in which the formed article is subjected to a
treatment after working, molding or shaping thereof, said treatment
being other than or different from that required to work, mold or
alter the shape of said article and performed after removal from
the mold.
for processes of treating an article, per se, wherein
entrained, occluded or adsorbed material, e.g., liquids are removed
by application of heat or by solvent extraction.
This subclass is indented under subclass 232. Processes wherein said treatment is a liquid cleansing step
which removes impurities by a physical or solvent action of said
liquid.
Bleaching and Dyeing; Fluid Treatment and Chemical
Modification of Textiles and Fibers,
subclasses 147+ for fluid treatment of artificial fibers, e.g.,
working, per se.
This subclass is indented under subclass 232. Processes wherein the worked, shaped or molded material
is subjected to a positively applied heating or cooling step after
removal from the mold.
(1)
Note. Normal return of material to ambient temperature is
not sufficient to place a patent in this subclass.
(2)
Note. Utilizing a support to maintain the shape of the molded
body after removal from the mold is within the scope of this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 234. Processes wherein said temperature variation is a heating
step for the purpose of annealing the material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 235. Process wherein the annealing is performed upon stretched
work of indefinite length or work which moves through the treatment
zone as it is being treated.
(1)
Note. The purpose of the treatment usually is to "heat
set" the crystalline orientation produced by the stretching operation.
(2)
Note. The treatment is carried out at a tension (or lack
of tension) different from the tension which causes the stretching;
when performed at the same tension, the treatment is considered
to be treatment "within the mold" and is classified
with the stretching treatment.
(3)
Note. Shrinking is considered a shape change; heat treatment
to shrink is not classified here; see subclass 289.6.
This subclass is indented under subclass 235.6. Process in which the stretching which precedes the annealing
is performed in two perpendicular directions on planar material.
(1)
Note. Where all claims of a patent, classified herein, require
a post-stretching heat treatment, the patent is preferably not cross-referenced
to subclass 290.2.
This subclass is indented under subclass 234. Processes wherein the applied temperature variation is for
the purpose of effecting a completion of vulcanization or polymerization
of the material.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes combined with a step which is, per se, (1) not
provided for in this class and which (2) performs a function other
than that utilized to perfect the plastic molding, shaping or working
operations.
(1)
Note. "Perfecting" the operations of this class
include operations performed on the material or work piece in the
shaping means, handling of the material to present it to the shaping
means, compounding the material, and heating or cooling the material
or workpiece in or out of the mold.
for processes of applying heat combined with a shaping
step and see especially subclass 329 for processes of heating and
working prior to injection molding.
MECHANICAL SHAPING OR MOLDING TO FORM OR REFORM SHAPED
ARTICLE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes for (1) making a self-sustaining solid article
or shape from a formless or flowable mass of material, or (2) altering
the configuration or at least one dimension of a solid self-sustaining
workpiece by the application of a distorting mechanical force thereto.
(1)
Note. Included herein are patents to confining shaped preforms
between pressure surfaces and subjecting them to heat and pressure
even though no apparent shaping is involved, e.g., vulcanizing rubber articles
in a confining mold.
This subclass is indented under subclass 239. Processes in which at least two independent components of
a reactive system are combined at the shaping surface.
(1)
Note. For processes wherein a chemical reaction, blending
or mixing takes place in a mold in the absence of significant molding
operations, see the definitions of this class (264) which sets out
the line with the chemical composition classes.
This subclass is indented under subclass 239. Processes in which different materials, portions or parts
are brought into association and united by a mechanical shaping
or molding operation.
(1)
Note. For location in this subclass the product of such process
must be: (a) the result of joining preformed parts with reshaping
at the joining areas without destroying the identities of the preformed
parts, (b) the result of placing one preform in a mold and adding
fluent material, of different character or, (c) composed of clearly
defined layers or parts. Resin impregnated felted batts assembled
and pressed together to form a homogeneous article, for example, would
not be placed in this or indented subclasses unless the patent clearly
set forth that the product includes a line of demarcation between
the layers. Woven layers, however, by their very nature, maintain
their identity as layers when pressed together and would be included.
for processes of forming a multilayered, impregnated,
or composite structured product by firing, sintering, or vitrifying
of a shaped inorganic preform outside of a mold.
Metal Working,
subclasses 610.1+ for methods of making electrical resistors including
both molding and metal working. For the combination of molding
a preform plastic part followed by a mechanical assembly of the
part to another part see Class 29, subclasses 428+.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture, appropriate subclasses for processes and apparatus
of forming composite structures by laminating.
Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus,
subclass 110 for composite article making apparatus comprising
a molding cavity and means to feed or support a preform.
This subclass is indented under subclass 241. Processes in which the product formed is composed for parts
united or joined by a shaping operation whereby said parts remain
mechanically movable relative to each other.
This subclass is indented under subclass 241. Processes directed to the production of bristle or tufted
articles wherein substantially parallel fibers or filaments are
fixed or positioned by a molding operation which causes a portion
of said fibers or filaments to be embedded in a plastic material
base.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclass 72 for processes wherein tufts or piles are set or
embedded adhesively in or to a preformed backing.
This subclass is indented under subclass 241. Processes in which material is molded or reshaped and united
simultaneously with a preformed upper portion of a shoe or boot.
This subclass is indented under subclass 241. Processes in which the surface of the composite articles
has portions which are different in color than other surface portions.
This subclass is indented under subclass 245. Processes which include forming a composite by utilizing
as one component in the forming operation a self-sustaining preform
which forms a surface area that differs in color from at least one
other surface area.
This subclass is indented under subclass 246. Processes in which the self-sustaining preform is placed
in, or relocated to, a particular position within a mold prior to
the compositing operation.
(1)
Note. A component, which at the time of compositing thereof,
lies undistributed adjacent a portion of the mold against which
it was formed, is not considered to be positioned in the mold for purpose
of this subclass, merely because other portions of the forming mold
have been altered to form the composite mold configuration.
This subclass is indented under subclass 241. Processes wherein two plastically deformable self-sustaining
bodies are assembled and autogenously united at a joint area by
a shaping operation with plastic flow to reshape said bodies at
said joint area.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclasses 308.2+ and 324.4 for autogenous bonding of preforms, per
se, in which any plastic flow at the joining area is incidental
only to the joining operation and is not a shaping operation, per
se, see subclass 69 for application of and closures to containers wherein
there may be autogenous bonding at the joining area, and subclass
292 for joining preforms at edges with opposed surfaces out of contact.
This subclass is indented under subclass 241. Processes in which two self-sustaining preforms are locked
or mechanically united together by a local reshaping of at least
one of the preforms.
This subclass is indented under subclass 241. Processes in which at least two different materials, portions
or parts making up the composite article are separately molded or
shaped.
(1)
Note. Sequential pouring of plastic material layers of differing
compositions or physical properties so as to form a composite article
in the same mold is considered separate molding for purposes of
this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 250. Processes which include molding portions which are spaced
from each other on, and separately united to, a preform or base
by said molding operation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 251. Processes in which the base is a sheet, film, web or batt
and the molded portions are confined to and extend along an edge
of such base.
This subclass is indented under subclass 251. Processes in which the product is a building element or
module of the type having two spaced walls interconnected by a preform
element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 250. Processes in which a body has different surface areas covered
with material in separate shaping operations.
This subclass is indented under subclass 250. Processes in which the same mold or confining means is used
to retain the molding material during the formation of the different
article portions.
(1)
Note. Incremental molding or dip casting of different materials
in or on the same mold is within the scope of this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 255. Processes wherein a layer is comprised of a material which
is in whole or part siliceous, argillaceous, arenaceous, calcarious
or is formed substantially of a similar, common soil forming substituent.
This subclass is indented under subclass 257. Processes in which a plurality of superposed or contacting
fibrous or textile sheets, webs or batts are united at least in
some areas of said contact.
This subclass is indented under subclass 241. Processes in which a molding material is shaped or formed
against a preform and said shaped material remains united with the
preform to constitute a composite article.
(1)
Note. Where the preform and the shaping material are the
same composition so that the product is homogeneous and cannot be
called composite, the patent will not be placed herein but will
be classified in the appropriate subclass based on the manipulative
steps involved.
This subclass is indented under subclass 259. Processes wherein at least two different fluent materials
are simultaneously molded and united to a preform to form a composite
article.
This subclass is indented under subclass 259. Processes in which two distinct preformed bodies with opposing
surfaces are positioned in a spaced relationship with each other
and a fluent molding material at least partially fills the space
between the preforms said molding material acting to unite the preforms
and being contained at least in part by said preform surfaces.
(1)
Note. The fluent material here is introduced primarily for
the purpose of filling or partially filling the space between the preforms,
with any material which extends beyond the space between the preforms
being of insufficient quantity to cover or embed the preforms except, at
most, in the areas immediately adjacent the space between the preforms.
for processes wherein plural spaced bodies are embedded
in or surrounded by shaping material in which the shaping material,
while it may function to unite the plural shaped bodies, does more
than merely fill the spaces therebetween, but also gives the final article
its outer shape or structure, at least in part.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture, appropriate subclasses for processes laminating
by placing adhesive between preforms and then uniting.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclass 294 for uniting a core within a tube where the elements
are not maintained in a spaced relationship.
This subclass is indented under subclass 259. Processes in which the shaping of material is on or about
at least two contacting preforms, said shaped material functioning
also to unite said preforms.
(1)
Note. Patents will be placed herein even though a) a temporary
uniting means for the preforms is disclosed to be present during
the shaping or molding of the material or b) a permanent mechanical joining
of the preforms is disclosed to be present.
This subclass is indented under subclass 259. Processes in which at least part of the surface of the body
is treated or covered to prevent the adherence of the subsequently
applied material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 259. Processes in which the preformed body is acted upon in a
step separate and distinct from the shaping or forming step to (1)
perfect the shaping operation or (2) assist in the uniting of the body
and the shaping material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 259. Processes in which a preformed self-sustaining body undergoes
a reshaping simultaneously with the shaping of a material and the
uniting thereof to the reshaped preform.
(1)
Note. To be included herein the self-sustaining body must
remain substantially self-sustaining during the reshaping operation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 259. Processes in which shaping material is molded against and
united to at least a portion of the inner surface of an aperture,
cavity or hollow contained in a preform.
This subclass is indented under subclass 267. Processes in which the hollow body is relatively thin walled,
the end and side walls of said body form a cap or cup-like shape.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclass 69 for the application of end closures to containers,
and subclass 62 for closure cap lining by cutting and laminating.
This subclass is indented under subclass 267. Processes in which the molding material is shaped and applied
so as to constitute a lining or covering layer for substantially
the entire inner surface of the cavity or aperture of said hollow
body.
Metal Founding,
subclasses 114+ for processes of centrifugal metal casting and
subclasses 286+ for corresponding apparatus particularly
subclass 288 for means to hold or position preformed product.
This subclass is indented under subclass 259. Processes in which the preformed self-sustaining body has
molding material shaped about it so that said body is surrounded
by or embedded in said molding material.
(1)
Note. Shaping of a molding material to a planar surface only
if a preform is not within the scope of this subclass. To be placed
herein, the patent must include confining the preform in two dimensions thereof
with the shaping material so as to embed or surround the preform.
This subclass is indented under subclass 271.1. Processes in which the surrounded or embedded body, or at
least a part thereof, is intended for use as component of an electrical
circuit.
(1)
Note. To be included here the component must be one which
controls the electricity, for example, a coil, condenser, or rectifier,
and not merely a conductor insulator or outlet, etc. Processing
of covering conductors, etc., are classified according to the manipulative step
employed.
Metal Working, particularly
subclass 841 for encapsulation following the assembly of an
electrical device to an insulative base and subclasses 855+ for
encapsulation combined with assembly of a terminal or elongated conductor
directly to an electrical component.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclass 51 for covering of indefinite-length conductors with
nonpreformed material. See the search notes to subclass 47 under
(12) Note, Coating, Covering and Sheathing.
Active Solid-State Devices (e.g., Transistors,
Solid-State Diodes),
subclasses 100 , 433, 434, and 787-796 for encapsulated active
solid-state electronic devices.
Semiconductor Device Manufacturing: Process, particularly
subclasses 112 , 124, and 127 for methods of encapsulating semiconductor
devices; see the search notes thereunder.
This subclass is indented under subclass 272.11. Processes in which the material surrounding or embedding
the electrical component is not a synthetic resin.
This subclass is indented under subclass 272.11. Processes in which there is claimed a step of curing the
encapsulating material or some expedient is employed to compensate
for the differing coefficients of expansion of an electrical component
or part thereof and the encapsulant.
This subclass is indented under subclass 272.11. Processes in which the electrical component is claimed as
positioned in a specified relation to the encapsulant or in which
a positioning means is incorporated in the encapsulant.
This subclass is indented under subclass 272.11. Processes in which the component encapsulated is adapted
to convert mechanical to electrical energy by electromagnetism or
the component is an electric lamp or electric space discharge device.
(1)
Note. Electric space discharge devices are defined for the
purpose of classification as including any device which is intended
to have an electric current flow between two spaced electrodes,
at least part of the path followed by the discharge being constituted
by a gas, vapor, or vacuum. Electric space discharge devices, therefore,
include spark gaps, spark plugs, radio tubes, X-ray tubes, cathode-ray
tubes, gas or vapor discharge lamps and lighting arresters of the
electric space discharge type.
Semiconductor Device Manufacturing: Process, particularly
subclasses 112 , 124, and 127 for methods of encapsulating semiconductor
devices; see the search notes thereunder.
This subclass is indented under subclass 272.11. Processes in which the encapsulated component is designed
to produce an electromagnetic field or is a coil.
This subclass is indented under subclass 272.11. Processes in which the electrical component encapsulated
is a source of electrical current or part of such device.
This subclass is indented under subclass 271. Processes in which a material is shaped against a body having
holes or apertures extending therethrough said material being forced
into said holes or apertures during the shaping operation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 271. Processes in which the body is provided with an undercut
or other indentations to produce at least mechanical interference
or keyed fit with the subsequently applied material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 271. Processes which include a provision for locating a preformed
body in a specific position in a mold or maintaining such a position.
for positioning by holding the body against a shaping
surface while molding, then molding against the body while positioning
by holding the previously shaped materials.
This subclass is indented under subclass 275. Processes in which a parting line fin or flash excess plastic
material is prevented from forming or reduced by the particular
positioning of the body in the mold.
This subclass is indented under subclass 275. Processes in which a plurality of bodies spaced from each
other during a molding operation are embedded in or surrounded by
said shaping material.
for processes in which molding material is introduced
only in the space between plural preform surfaces with no more than
a slight excess or overflow, said molding material being contained
at least in part by the preform surfaces and serving to unite said
preforms.
This subclass is indented under subclass 275. Processes which include the utilization of positioning means
which may be withdrawn from the mold before separation of the composite article
from the mold or removed from the composite body subsequent to separation thereof
from the mold.
This subclass is indented under subclass 271. Processes wherein the material which is to be shaped so
as to embed or surround a preformed body is in a flowable state
when applied to said preform body.
This subclass is indented under subclass 239. Processes in which the work that is mechanically shaped
or molded by a physically applied force to deform, is a preform
and of running or indefinite length.
This subclass is indented under subclass 280. Processes directed to production of helically coiled articles
wherein each convolution of said coil is axially displaced from
adjoining convolutions.
(1)
Note. Patents reciting winding in place with no axial displacement
or wherein each convolution is entirely superimposed over the preceding
one are excluded from this subclass.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclasses 169+ and 184+ particularly subclass 195, for
winding combined with laminating or uniting.
This subclass is indented under subclass 280. Processes wherein the reshaping takes the form of creping
or crinkling.
(1)
Note. Including in this subclass are, for example, crowding
the work back on itself to induce it to wrinkle, and crushing the
work to produce random permanent distortions.
(2)
Note. This subclass does not include corrugating, per se,
within its scope. See search notes below.
This subclass is indented under subclass 282. Processes wherein the creping, crinkling or wrinkling is
effected by means of a doctoring implement applied to a drum carrying
the web wherein said web is reshaped accordingly and removed from
the drum.
This subclass is indented under subclass 280. Processes which the surface configuration only of the workpiece
is altered by raising bosses or protuberances thereon or causing
surface portions to be depressed below the plane of the workpiece
surface.
(1)
Note. Where a surface only is altered by a cutting, scribing
or plowing only, and no material is removed or separated therefrom
through these operations, the patent will be placed herein.
Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus,
subclasses 319+ for shaping apparatus comprising the combination
of means to form a preform and means to convolute or twist the preform,
subclasses 323+ for pretzel bending apparatus and subclass
383 for a molding apparatus including means to reshape a preform.
This subclass is indented under subclass 280. Processes in which a portion of a workpiece is moved and
permanently distorted throughout its entire thickness relative to
a second portion during which the thickness of the workpiece remains
substantially the same and no significant plastic flow occurs.
This subclass is indented under subclass 285. Processes in which the bending involves forming a web with
a cross-section having alternate ridges and grooves.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclasses 202+ and 205+ for corrugating of indefinite
length work combined with a laminating operation and 210 for corrugating
and laminating to a noncorrugated lamina.
This subclass is indented under subclass 280. Process in which the reshaping is performed by pulling an
end or edge of the workpiece and the workpiece is elongated in the
direction of the tension application.
(1)
Note. Tension applied merely to hold the work extended or
taut is not considered to be within the scope of this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 288.4. Process including a step of applying tension to a workpiece
before the workpiece is heated, e.g., "prestretching",
etc., or wherein the process results in an article or running length
differing from a uniform and uniform-appearing fiber, tow, or film
in a specified way, whether the variation be desired or undesired,
e.g., knots, color variations, etc.
(1)
Note. The process may produce the variations or may tend
to minimize variations in the original workpiece.
(2)
Note. The tensioning may or may not result in a change of
shape (cold-stretching).
This subclass is indented under subclass 288.4. Process wherein the workpiece is treated by other than heat
before tension for stretching is applied, e.g., pressure treatment,
fluid treatment, etc.
for a process in which a portion of the workpiece
is modified to aid the stretching procedure and the modified portion
is later removed from the stretched workpiece.
This subclass is indented under subclass 288.4. Process wherein a liquid material, e.g., a sizing or heat
exchange material, etc., makes direct contact with the workpiece
during the stretching operation or after the stretching operation, or
wherein the process includes a step in which stretching tension
is reduced, allowing a dimension of the workpiece to decrease.
This subclass is indented under subclass 288.4. Process wherein a moving workpiece is stretched in a direction
at right angles to its direction of movement or in which a stationary, indefinite-length
work-piece is stretched in two perpendicular directions.
for a process wherein biaxial stretching of a film
is followed by heat-setting. When all of the claims of a patent
include the heat setting step, the patent is preferably not cross-referenced
to this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 290.5. Process wherein the fiber, besides contact with the two
essential mechanisms which cause the tension application and define
the stretch path, contacts also a third solid object arranged between
the two essential mechanisms.
(1)
Note. The third object often, but not always, serves the
purpose of defining the necking point of the fiber during stretching.
This subclass is indented under subclass 239. Processes wherein external tension is applied to a self-sustaining
body so as to effectively increase at least one surface dimension
thereof or otherwise reshape the body by extending it beyond the
elastic limit.
(1)
Note. Incidental stretching which occurs in the normal reshaping
of a workpiece between dies is not considered sufficient to place
a patent in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 291. Processes wherein the workpiece is forced to assume the
shape of a form by said stretching of the workpiece over the form
and into contact therewith.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclass 212 for bending, drawing or stretching forming of a
sheet to assume shape of a configured lamina while in contact therewith.
This subclass is indented under subclass 239. Processes in which the surface configuration only of the
workpiece is altered by raising bosses or protuberances thereon
or causing surface portions to be depressed below the plane of the
workpiece surface.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclasses 209 and 219+ for surface deformation or embossing
combined with a laminating operation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 239. Processes which include plural molding or shaping steps
said steps being distinct, separate and sequential.
(1)
Note. Included herein are processes in which a similar type
of molding, which may differ in magnitude or direction is applied
in plural steps to the same portion of the article.
(2)
Note. See appropriate subclasses in this class and the search
notes below in particular for processes which involve incremental
molding or accretion from bulk, e.g., successive dip casting, and those
operations which involve repetition to give an overall unitary effect, e.g.,
sequential corrugation, stepwise elongation of successive portions
of an article or bending a sheet in steps to form a U-shape.
(3)
Note. Where a patent may recite a preliminary "extrusion" prior
to a molding operation where said "extrusion" is
disclosed to be for the purpose of mixing, agitating or controlling
or directing a stream of liquid or plastic material enroute to the
molding means, rather than for shaping by extrusion, said "extrusion" will
not be considered a diverse molding step for purpose of this subclass
but will be classified on some other basis.
This subclass is indented under subclass 294. Processes wherein the plural steps comprise at least one
molding step followed by at least one bending or twisting operation
in which (a) a portion of a workpiece is moved throughout its entire
thickness relative to a second portion during which the thickness
of the workpiece remains substantially the same and no significant
plastic flow occurs or (b) there is distortion of a single solid
body by relative movement of its parts about a common axis.
This subclass is indented under subclass 294. Processes in which at least one of the shaping or molding
steps alters the existing configuration of a limited portion of
the article.
This subclass is indented under subclass 239. Processes which include forming a plurality of separate
and distinct articles either simultaneously or sequentially.
(1)
Note. To be placed in this subclass, the articles formed
must not be particulate in nature, that is, of such a size that
the formed particles can be handled in bulk only. For formation
of particulate material from a liquid or molten mass, see the search
note below.
(2)
Note. The fact that the apparatus used in the process may
be capable of continuous operation thus forming plural articles,
for example, injection molding devices, is not sufficient to place
a patent in this and the indented subclasses. To be placed in this
array the patent must claim the process of forming plural articles.
This subclass is indented under subclass 297.1. Processes which include a step of forcing material from
a source removed from a closed mold cavity into the cavity wherein
said material assumes the shape of the closed mold cavity.
This subclass is indented under subclass 297.2. Processes in which the molds into which material is forced
under pressure are mounted on a continuous surface or are mounted
to provide for rotary motion of the molds about a central axis.
This subclass is indented under subclass 297.1. Processes in which a plurality of articles are shaped by
performing a forming operation on a stack or nest of preforms or
in which a single press couple acts on a stack of shaping members.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes a process of forming a chain
or article articulated in a chainlike manner as a nested article.
(2)
Note. This subclass also includes the use of parting material
in a stack of preforms to be shaped.
This subclass is indented under subclass 297.1. Processes in which a preform is reshaped or subjected to
chemical or physical treatment after shaping.
(1)
Note. The reshaping processes provided for herein typically
reshape part of a preform such as belling the end of a length of
pipe or vulcanize a group of preforms.
This subclass is indented under subclass 297.1. Processes which include the use of a series of molds mounted
on a moving surface providing linear or rotary motion to the molds.
This subclass is indented under subclass 239. Processes in which the article forming material is shaped
by casting or depositing the material on a liquid body the surface
of which acts as the shaping means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 239. Processes in which (1) fluent or plastic material is caused
to flow to assume the configuration of a solid shaping surface in
contact therewith, or (2) solid material is forced against a shaping surface
by pressure means opposed thereto.
(1)
Note. Vulcanizing between pressure surfaces or in a shape
retaining cavity is considered to involved "mold shaping" for
the purpose of this subclass and those indented hereunder.
Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus, appropriate subclasses for corresponding apparatus, see
especially
subclasses 376.1+ for an extrusion shaping apparatus, subclasses
383+ for molding apparatus for reshaping a preform, subclasses
406+ for a press molding machine, and subclasses 425+ for
a molding machine utilizing mold motion to shape or to compact.
This subclass is indented under subclass 299. Processes in which parting or release material is incorporated
in the molding composition to facilitate subsequent removal of the
formed article from the mold or shaping surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 299. Processes in which the molding material is applied in bulk
to the molding surface causing a relatively small proportion to
be deposited or adhered to the molding surface followed by relatively
separating the mold form with the adhering material from the remaining
bulk.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes, for example, pouring molding
material into a mold and pouring out the excess which does not cling
to the mold walls or dipping a mold form into the molding material
and removal of said form therefrom with a coating of said material
adhered to the molding surface.
Coating Processes,
subclasses 430.1+ for processes of coating by immersion and see the
class definition of Class 264 at section II F for the line between Classes
264 and 427.
This subclass is indented under subclass 301. Processes wherein the molding material is poured or placed
in the mold and the excess material not deposited, gelled or coagulated
on the mold surface is removed to leave a relatively thin deposit
or layer on the inner walls of the mold.
Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus,
subclass 433 for slush molding in molds peripherally supported
on an endless belt and subclass 435 for other slush molding apparatus.
This subclass is indented under subclass 301. Processes in which the deposition or accretion on the mold
surface is of a nonuniform or varying thickness to produce articles
which have an irregular or nonuniform cross-sectional wall thickness,
or in which the accretion rate or overall thickness of the accretion
is controlled or regulated by a compound or nonlinear movement of
the molding form or surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 301. Processes which include a step which facilitates removal
of the formed article from the mold or forming surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 301. Processes wherein the accretion of the material is in plural
separate stages by separate dippings into a source or supply of
the same molding material.
for processes of forming indefinite length or continuous
articles wherein the shaping surface, e.g., endless belt or wheel
is dipped into the molding material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 301. Processes in which the deposition or accretion of the molding
material on the mold is facilitated or effected by a separate treatment
or conditioning of the material or the mold surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 301. Processes wherein the accreted or deposited material is
subsequently treated while still on the form with an added agent
or reactant.
This subclass is indented under subclass 299. Processes in which the same material is applied in multiple,
sequential charges in or on the same mold or molding surface, or
on the surface of a previously deposited or formed layer of the
same material, the formed article resulting therefrom being homogeneous
and unitary in structure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 299. Processes in which the molding material is propelled forcibly
through space in either compacted bulk form, or discrete form, to
thereby impinge against and collect in or on a molding or shaping
surface or means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 299. Processes in which rotating motion is imparted to the material
being shaped or to the mold or mold shaping surface.
for processes which pertain to agitating by plural
sequential rotations in reverse directions. However, such patents
should be crosses herein where applicable depending on the time
of duration of said rotation periods in one direction.
This subclass is indented under subclass 310. Processes which include the generation of a centrifugal
force which is applied to the molding material, the effect of said
centrifugal force being manifested in the shaping, distribution
or maintenance of said molding material in the mold.
Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus,
subclass 425 for a molding machine utilizing mold motion to
distribute or compact a fluent material in a mold.
This subclass is indented under subclass 310. Processes in which a recess is formed, enlarged or maintained
by a correspondingly shaped means for such recess which means performs such
function by a rotation relative to the body containing such recess.
This subclass is indented under subclass 299. Processes in which the mold or mold surface is flexible,
resilient, deformable or may be collapsed or destroyed to facilitate
removal or separation of the molded article from the mold.
for processes directed to casting, ejecting, core
or mold stripping, or separating of articles from molds or shaping
devices and see the search notes thereto.
This subclass is indented under subclass 314. Processes in which said inflatable element is toroidal in
shape.
(1)
Note. A toroidal shape is that generated by a closed planar
figure when rotated about an axis lying in the same plane therewith
and outside the figure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 313. Processes wherein a flexible or resilient sheet or web is
employed as a mold or mold surface or as a separate mold liner.
(1)
Note. Tubes or casings or other hollow articles regardless
of length are not considered to be sheets or webs for purposes of
this subclass and are excluded herefrom.
This subclass is indented under subclass 313. Processes in which the mold or mold surface is destroyed
to facilitate removal thereof from the molded material.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclass 155 for destruction of transitory material when combined
with a laminating operation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 299. Processes directed to the molding of articles of such irregular
shape in rigid molds that portions of said articles and corresponding
portions of the mold are in the relationship of an interference
fit in that removal of said article from the mold cannot be accomplished
be a straight line or unidirectional motion, except where the trapped
portions of the article are at least temporarily flexible, elastic
or resilient so as not to be broken or deformed from the desired
shape by the confining portions of the mold if a straight line removal
from the mold is employed.
(1)
Note. This subclass will not take patents reciting the molding
of articles which may have trapped undercut surfaces in the mold
but which by specific mold structure may be removed therefrom in
a straightline or unidirectional motion. However, this subclass
will take processes of forming articles of curved shapes in a rigid
mold from which the shaped articles may be withdrawn without interference
from the mold by a nonlinear motion corresponding to the curvature
of said article such as the formation of threaded articles removed
by an "unscrewing" operation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 299. Processes in which the material, while being shaped (1)
is raised in temperature or (2) is subjected to an increase in pressure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 319. Processes in which the material shaped is (1) a self-sustaining
preform throughout the reshaping operation or (2) is a self-sustaining
preform when placed into a mold.
(1)
Note. Solid particulate molding material which is handled
or charged to the mold as a fluent mass is not included within the
scope of this and indented subclasses, however, solid particles
or pieces which are placed, handled, or charged individually are
considered self-sustaining preforms or bodies for purposes of this
and indented subclasses.
This subclass is indented under subclass 320. Processes in which the solid workpiece is subjected to a
treatment prior to reshaping for the purpose of decreasing its rigidity
or hardness.
(1)
Note. The treatment may be, for example, heating, moistening,
or solvent application.
(2)
Note. Preliminary softening of the workpiece by liquid impregnation
within the scope of this subclass differs from coating or impregnating
the workpiece before molding or shaping as provided for by subclasses
134+ in that the impregnation in the present subclass is transitory
and that of subclasses 134+ in a permanent component of
the article formed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 320. Processes in which the reshaping of a solid preform is effected
by establishing a rubbing, wiping or sliding action between the
preform and a shaping surface.
(1)
Note. Included within the scope of the subclass is pressing
a preform between mold surfaces and causing the preformed material
to be reshaped and spread along the mold surfaces into an unconfined area.
When such an operation is caused by striking the preform with a
shaping element causing the material to be extruded out between
the shaping surfaces the process is usually referred to as impact
extrusion.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclasses 62.2+ for forming and laminating one or more webs or
batts by adhesive bonding and subclasses 196+ for reshaping
followed by laminating.
This subclass is indented under subclass 320. Processes in which the solid work or molding material, within
the confines of a closed mold cavity, is caused to take the shape
of the interior of said mold cavity by a plastic flow of said work
or molding material.
(1)
Note. A mold cavity is considered closed for purposes of
this subclass if it engages all of the exterior product surfaces
being formed or reshaped. Spaces between mold parts or small openings
in said parts will not exclude a mold cavity from this subclass
even though some molding material is forced from the mold cavity
through such spaces and openings.
This subclass is indented under subclass 319. Processes wherein different degrees of heating or cooling
are positively applied simultaneously to the article or molding
material, or different portions thereof, while said article is still
in the mold.
(1)
Note. To be placed herein a patent should recite a positively
applied temperature differential. Normal heating or cooling to
ambient temperatures, for example, wherein an article may be cooler
at the surface temporarily than at the core, is not sufficient to
place a patent herein.
(2)
Note. Maintaining a uniform temperature of the product by
the nonuniform application or removal of product heat is classified
herein.
This subclass is indented under subclass 319. Processes in which said pressure is applied to the molding
material so as to force the material from a source removed from
a closed mold cavity into the cavity wherein said material assumes
the shape of the interior of said closed cavity.
This subclass is indented under subclass 328.1. Processes in which relative movement of the mold and injector
head is accomplished by displacement of either or both.
This subclass is indented under subclass 328.1. Processes in which the injection mold is designed to produce
a specified direction of flow or a specified type of flow of material
during injection.
This subclass is indented under subclass 328.17. Processes in which the fluent material to be molded is stored
in a zone prior to being fed to the injector head.
This subclass is indented under subclass 328.1. Processes in which curable, vulcanized, ceramic or hydrolitically
settable or is otherwise identified as not softening upon reheating after
molding.
(1)
Note. In the absence of a clear showing to the contrary a
material is presumed to be a thermoplastic.
This subclass is indented under subclass 328.2. Processes in which molding material is accumulated in a
pressurized zone upstream of the injector head.
This subclass is indented under subclass 328.1. Processes in which the physical conformation of the mold
cavity is altered while injecting material or between stages of
injecting material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 328.1. Processes in which multiple injectors feed a single mold
cavity, or a single injector feeds a series of connected mold cavities
or a single mold cavity in a series of distinct steps.
This subclass is indented under subclass 328.1. Processes in which the process is carried out so as to minimize
or eliminate the formation of undesired waste material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 319. Processes in which the material being molded is organic
compound containing.
(1)
Note. Attention is directed to the definitions of Class 260,
Chemistry of Carbon Compounds, for the scope the term "organic
compound" as employed herein.
(2)
Note. See the main definitions to this class (264) for the
line between this class and the composition classes.
(3)
Note. Included in this and indented subclasses are generally
patents which include a unique combination of a specifically recited
organic material and a particular molding temperature or pressure.
Numerous patents which include a specific manipulation or step
provided for above will also disclose a particular composition and
temperature or pressure. Such patents are cross-referenced here
only when they include some evidence that the temperature or pressure are
not conventionally used in molding the particular material.
Chemistry of Carbon Compounds,
subclasses 2.01+ for synthetic resinous compositions which may be
disclosed to possess utility as molding materials, and see (1) Note
and (2) Note above.
Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers, particularly Classes 523 and 524 for a synthetic
resin or natural rubbers composition which may be disclosed or claimed
to posses utility as molding materials, and see (1) Note and (2) Note
above
This subclass is indented under subclass 331.11. Processes in which the synthetic resin is a polymer having
or polymer derived from a monomer having a heterocyclic group, i.e.,
an organic compound wherein one or more carbon atoms are covalently
bonded in a ring system with at least one hetero atom of oxygen,
sulfur, nitrogen, selenium, or tellurium and there are no other
different atoms in the ring, except heterocyclic derived solely
from carboxylic acid, i.e., cyclic imide, lactam, lactone, or anhydride.
(1)
Note. See subclass 331.13 for the definition of ethylenic
group.
This subclass is indented under subclass 331.11. Processes wherein the synthetic resin is a polymer derived
from a monomer having at least two ethylenic groups, e.g., ABS rubber, chloroprene,
etc., or wherein the organic material comprises a synthetic resin
with a natural rubber.
(1)
Note. An ethylenic group is defined as two carbon atoms bonded
together by a double or triple bond, with the proviso that the double
bond is not part of an aromatic ring, or of a ring which shares
a double bond with an aromatic ring.
This subclass is indented under subclass 331.11. Processes in which the synthetic resin is an ethylenically
unsaturated polymer or a polymer derived from an ethylenically unsaturated
monomer.
(1)
Note. Ethylenically unsaturated requires the presence of
two carbon atoms bonded together by a double or triple bond, with
the proviso that the double bond is not part of an aromatic ring,
or of a ring which shares of a double bond with an aromatic ring.
This subclass is indented under subclass 319. Processes directed to the molding and shaping of inorganic
materials which are capable of being hydrolyzed by water to a solid
state.
(1)
Note. In cross-referencing to this subclass the same general
rule should be followed as set out in the definition of subclass
330.
This subclass is indented under subclass 299. Processes which include the step of removing or displacing
molding material or the formed article from or relative to the shaping
surface.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes processes of removing articles
from molds, per se, when claimed in such a manner as to have utility
only in a molding operation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 334. Processes wherein the removal is effected or facilitated
by a direct application of a fluid pressure or vacuum including
a fluid blast or stream.
This subclass is indented under subclass 334. Processes in which the article or molded material is ejected
or stripped from the mold or molding surface when a desired shape
is obtained but before the article is completely set or cured.
for methods of forming undercut articles in which
the article is removed from the mold while the undercut portions
are still flexible to permit removal without breaking.
This subclass is indented under subclass 299. Processes in which the shaping or forming mold or surface
is composed of special or specific materials.
(1)
Note. Many patents which include a manipulation or step provided
for above will also include a disclosure of using a particular mold
composition coating or lining. Such patents should not be cross-referenced
to this and indented subclass unless there is some indication the
materials recited are not those conventionally used in such processes.
This subclass is indented under subclass 337. Processes in which the special or specific materials are
in the form of a coating or lining on the mold surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 239. Processes in which a portion of a single body is permanently
distorted throughout its entire thickness relative to a second portion
during which the thickness of the workpiece remains substantially
the same and no significant plastic flow occurs or in which said
body is permanently distorted by relative movement of its parts
about a common axis.
(1)
Note. Plural similar, bending operations are included herein.
For plural diverse types of bending or shaping operations, see
the search notes below.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes in which preformed, shaped, or solid articles
are subjected to a treatment.
(1)
Note. Treatment, for the purpose of this and indented subclasses,
included all procedures in which the chemical or physical properties
or characteristics of a work piece are modified or controlled by other
than mechanically shaping by contacting the work with a solid shaping member.
(2)
Note. Subsequent treatment, per se, of an article, which
involves a chemical reaction with said article, in the absence of
a particular manipulative or handling step, or specific shape retaining
or supporting step not otherwise classifiable above, is not sufficient
to bring a patent herein. See the line between the composition classes
and this class as set out in the definitions above.
(3)
Note. To complete the search for processes of treating the
appropriate subclasses set out above which include combinations
of shaping and treating should be searched.
This subclass is indented under subclass 340. Processes wherein the article has its surface smoothed or
leveled by application of a material having a dissolving or softening
action on said article.
(1)
Note. Polishing of materials by chemical action wherein contaminants
or surface reaction products, e.g., rust, oxides, etc., are removed
is not included in the scope of this subclass. See the definitions
to Class 216, Etching a Substrate: Processes.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclass 76 for shrinking of a lamina in which parchmentizing
or transparentizing also occurs and subclasses 84+ for
shrinking combined with a laminating step.
This subclass is indented under subclass 340. Processes in which a solid workpiece is treated in such
a manner as to cause it to increase in size or become softer or
more pliable.
Bleaching and Dyeing; Fluid Treatment and Chemical
Modification of Textiles and Fibers,
subclass 130.1 for swelling or plasticization of artificial fibers.
This subclass is indented under subclass 340. Processes in which the treatment results in the removal
of a material which is held or retained in or on the solid workpiece.
Bleaching and Dyeing; Fluid Treatment and Chemical
Modification of Textiles and Fibers, particularly
subclasses 137+ for cleaning or laundering, per se, of textiles
and fibers.
This subclass is indented under subclass 340. Processes wherein the treatment involves a positive temperature
change, other than a normal return to ambient temperatures from
a heated or cooled condition.
Semiconductor Device Manufacturing: Process, particularly
subclasses 471+ for gettering of a semiconductor substrate, subclasses
514+ for ion implantation of electrically active dopants
into a semiconductive, and subclasses 795+ for thermal
treatment of a semiconductor substrate to modify some property thereof.
This subclass is indented under subclass 345. Processes in which one or more temperature changes, are
employed to relieve or remove stresses or strains which may exist
in a preform or self-sustaining body.
This subclass is indented under subclass 345. Processes in which the temperature change, is employed to
effect the complete vulcanization or polymerization of a partially
cured self-sustaining body or preform.
(1)
Note. Vulcanization, per se, or polymerization, per se, of
an article is not considered to be within the scope of this subclass
unless there is also included a particular manipulative or handling
step or specific shape retaining or supporting step not otherwise
classifiable above. See the definitions to this class, pertaining
to the line between this class and the composition classes, and
see also the search notes to subclass 236 of this class (264).
This subclass is indented under subclass 345. Processes directed to the cooling, per se, of a preform
or self-sustaining body by a positive application of a heat extracting
temperature differential.
(1)
Note. Mere cooling to ambient temperature in normal surroundings
of a heated article is not included within the scope of this subclass.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Miscellaneous processes not provided for specifically above.
(1)
Note. Included herein are patents disclosing working, kneading
or mulling, per se, of unspecified plastic materials in general,
to affect the plasticity thereof. Working, kneading or mulling,
per se, of specific compounds or compositions will be classified
in the appropriate compound or composition class.
Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers,
subclasses 1+ for processes which may involve the working, kneading
or mulling of plastic materials classified therein. In particular,
see Class 523, subclasses 100+ and Class 528, subclasses
480+.
LASER ABLATIVE SHAPING OR PIERCING (I.E., NONETCHING, DEVOID
OF CHEMICAL AGENT OTHER THAN AIR):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes directed to producing a configured or perforated
article, wherein material is removed from a preform by vaporization
or decomposition, caused solely by laser (i.e., light amplification
by stimulated emission of radiation) generated heat and without
the use of an external chemical agent, other than air.
(1)
Note. Claimed recitation of laser ablative shaping, per se,
without the use of an external chemical agent will be considered
proper for this subclass.
for processes which include a step of (a) penetrating
a shaped product from one face to another to cause at least a partial
separation of the product, (b) tearing an article, (c) removing
material from an article by means of a solid tool or implement,
or (d) forming a comminuted product, without the use of a laser.
Etching a Substrate: Processes,
subclasses 2+ for processes wherein a substrate is subjected
to bombardment by high energy radiation above that of the so-called
ultraviolet range.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes directed to the application of electromagnetic
wave energy on a confined solidifiable liquid or semi-solid material
which results in formation of a solid three-dimensional product.
(1)
Note. In most cases the subject matter found in this subclass
includes processes of producing solid three dimensional articles
by application of computer directed electromagnetic wave energy
in combination with polymerization and surface tension phenomena
at a selected area of a confined polymerizable liquid or semi-solid
material, causing a shaped integrated three-dimensional layered buildup
(solidified article) to form.
(2)
Note. The technology of this subclass generally includes
a scanner, laser, photopolymer vat, and a controlling computer.
(3)
Note. Synergistic stimulation by impinging radiation or particle
bombardment, which alters the physical state of a confined fluid
medium and forms a three-dimensional article (part), is considered appropriate
for this subclass.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture, for processes of uniting preforms, especially
subclass 58 contour or profile photography to reproduce three-dimensional
objects.
Radiation Imagery Chemistry: Process, Composition,
or Product Thereof, for processes of using radiation to reproduce a likeness
or image of an object and see especially
subclass 269 , imaging affecting physical property of radiation
sensitive material, or producing nonplanar or printing surface-process,
composition or product.
DIRECT APPLICATION OF ELECTRICAL OR WAVE ENERGY TO HEAT
THE MOLD (E.G., ELECTROMAGNETIC WAVE, PARTICULATE, MAGNETIC, SONIC,
ELECTROSTATIC ENERGY, ETC.):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes wherein electrical, electromagnetic, particulate,
magnetic, sonic, induction heat, or electrostatic energy is directly
applied to a mold or molding apparatus to cause said mold to be
heated.
(1)
Note. Some examples of wave energy found in this subclass
are electromagnetic, particulate, light, sonic, supersonic, ultrasonic,
gamma rays, X-rays, and magnetic energy. Particulate energy includes
charged particles and atomic emissions, such as alpha rays, beta
rays, and neutrons.
(2)
Note. Terms listed in the glossary are denoted by an asterisk.
This subclass is indented under subclass 402. Processes wherein the mold is subjected to induction heat.
(1)
Note. Induction heat is considered to be heating of a nominally
electrical conducting material by eddy currents induced by a varying
electromagnetic field. When an alternating current flows through
a coil which surrounds or is adjacent to a nominally conducting material,
eddy currents will be induced therein and cause said material to
be heated.
This subclass is indented under subclass 402. Processes wherein the mold is heated by passage of electrical
current through the mold which impedes current flow and results
in the dissipation of power in the form of heat.
DIRECT APPLICATION OF ELECTRICAL OR WAVE ENERGY TO WORK (E.G.,
ELECTROMAGNETIC WAVE, PARTICULATE, MAGNETIC, INDUCTION HEAT, SONIC,
ELECTROSTATIC ENERGY, ETC.):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes directed to applying electrical, electromagnetic,
magnetic, wave, or particulate energy directly to the work.
(1)
Note. Some examples of wave energy found in this subclass
are electromagnetic, particulate, light, sonic, supersonic, ultrasonic,
gamma rays, X-rays, and magnetic energy. Particulate energy includes
charged particles and atomic emissions, such as alpha rays, beta
rays, and neutrons. Mere use of magnetic force employed to maintain
a preform in a selected position is not provided for here, rather
see subclasses 275+.
(2)
Note. The energy must be applied as such to the work, the
work precursor or the coating material used in a combined coating
and shaping operation. Processes utilizing wave energy (e.g., plasma,
etc.) to apply a coating combined with a shaping operation are properly
classified in this subclass and indented subclasses. Conversion
of electrical energy to heat and the application of the heat to
the work is excluded from this subclass and is provided for in appropriate
subclasses.
for processes of molding wherein magnetic or electrostatic
force is utilized to maintain a preform in a selected position during
molding and see (1) Note, above.
Chemistry: Electrical and Wave Energy, appropriate subclasses for a process of effecting a chemical
reaction by utilizing electrical or wave energy, especially
subclasses 157.15+ for a process of preparing a specific compound
utilizing electrical or eave energy. The line stated in the Class 204
definition for claims defining a Class 204 operation combined with
an operation for another class is to be followed for classification
of claims defining both Class 204 and Class 264 operations.
Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers,
subclasses 1+ for processes of preparing or treating a synthetic
resin or natural rubber involving a chemical reaction brought about
by the application of wave energy.
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Processes which includes a step of utilizing electrical,
electromatic, magnetic, wave or particulate energy to audibly, chemically,
mechanically, or physically determine some variable condition in
a shaped article, molding material, mold or shaping surface.
(1)
Note. Included herein are processes for determining imperfections
or for determining completeness of a reaction or manipulation as
well as determinations of undesired variations which activate correction
mechanisms. Recitations of optimum or desired temperatures or pressures
or proportions of ingredients are considered nominal only and are classified
with the disclosed process on some other basis.
Electricity: Measuring and Testing, appropriate subclasses for electrical testing or
the measuring, testing, or sensing of nonelectric properties by electric
means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 406. Processes directed to utilizing wave vibrations which can
be heard by the human ear.
(1)
Note. Patents claiming the use of ultrasonic or supersonic
frequencies (energy) are properly classified in this subclass. The
term supersonic covers frequencies above the range of normal human
hearing. Ultrasonic waves vibrate at frequencies beyond the hearing
power of human beings (above 20,000 hertz). Sonic frequencies are
vibrations which can be heard by the human ear (from about 15 hertz
to approximately 20,000 hertz).
This subclass is indented under subclass 406. Processes wherein the variable condition is determined by
using light or the passing of electrical current through a molding
material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 408. Processes wherein the light used is laser (i.e., light amplification
by stimulated emissions of radiation).
This subclass is indented under subclass 408. Processes wherein the light used is infrared.
(1)
Note. Infrared radiation, measured using the electromagnetic
wave spectrum, is that portion which is visible to the eye, lying
between wavelengths of 750 nm (0.75 micrometers) and about 1 mm (1000
micrometers).
This subclass is indented under subclass 408. Processes wherein the movement of the molding material or
a substrate supporting the molding material in a continuous process
is controlled.
(1)
Note. Controlled continuous processes found in this subclass
include (a) a set up for repetitive operations or (b) endless flow
operations, wherein molding material leaves the molding cavity.
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Processes wherein the directly applied energy is used (a)
to form pores or voids in an article or (b) for the treatment* of
a porous article.
(1)
Note. Pore forming when not combined with significant molding
is provided for in various classes and the general lines between
those classes and Class 264 is followed even though the step of
forming pores is recited.
(2)
Note. Included within the scope of this subclass and indented
subclasses are enlarging voids already present in a material by
expanding gases contained therein.
for processes of producing microporous articles without intentionally occluding or incorporating void
forming elements randomly throughout the forming material.
Hazardous or Toxic Waste Destruction or Containment,
subclass 255 for the forming of pores or voids in the production
of a material containing hazardous or toxic waste for purposes of
containment.
This subclass is indented under subclass 415. Processes in which the pores or voids are formed by using
a liquid blowing agent whose state changes from liquid to gas (i.e.,
vaporization of a liquid incorporated into the molding material).
This subclass is indented under subclass 416. Processes in which the directly applied energy is identified
on the electromagnetic wave spectrum as existing between far infrared
and conventional radio-frequency.
(1)
Note. A microwave is generally considered to be an electromagnetic
wave which has a wavelength measured in the centimeter range. Microwaves
occupy a region in the electromagnetic wave spectrum between infrared
and radio-frequency. There are no distinct boundaries between these
regions except by arbitrary definition.
This subclass is indented under subclass 416. Processes wherein the directly applied energy is identified
on the electromagnetic wave spectrum as existing between 150 KHz
and extending up to the infrared region.
This subclass is indented under subclass 415. Processes in which pores or voids are formed by the generation
of a gas, by a chemical reaction of gas producing reactants, or
by agents incorporated in the molding material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 419. Processes in which the directly applied energy is identified
on the electromagnetic wave spectrum as existing between far infrared
and conventional radio frequency.
(1)
Note. A microwave is generally considered to be an electromagnetic
wave which has a wavelength measured in the centimeter range. Microwaves
occupy a region in the electromagnetic wave spectrum between infrared
and radio-frequency. There are no distinct boundaries between these
regions except by arbitrary definition.
This subclass is indented under subclass 419. Processes wherein the directly applied energy is identified
on the electromagnetic wave spectrum as existing between 150 KHz
and extending up to the infrared region.
This subclass is indented under subclass 415. Processes wherein the directly applied energy is identified
on the electromagnetic wave spectrum as existing between 150 KHz
and extending up to the infrared region.
This subclass is indented under subclass 413. Processes wherein the energy directly applied consists of
a gaseous vapor of ions in equilibrium or a vapor of ions in vacuum
in a nonequilibrium state referred to as a "cold plasma."
(1)
Note. Generally a plasma consists of a wholly or partially
ionized gas composed of ions, electrons, and neutral particles.
The concentration of negatively and positively charged carriers
are approximately equal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 413. Processes wherein the energy applied consists of (a) a prolonged
electrical discharge or series of prolonged electrical discharges
between two electrodes or (b) a narrow stream of electrons moving
in the same direction, and at the same speed, under the influence
of an electric or magnetic field.
This subclass is indented under subclass 413. Processes wherein the material used to produce or treat
the porous product is caused to polymerize, cross-link, or cure.
(1)
Note. Properly classified herein are documents claiming the
following terms. a. cross-linking b. curing c. addition polymerization
d. condensation polymerization e. block or graft polymerization. This
list is not intended to be exhaustive and is not limited to the
above examples.
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Processes wherein the energy directly applied is utilized
for the treatment* of or formation of inorganic materials
which are capable of being hydrolyzed by water to a solid state.
(1)
Note. Inorganic hydro-settable material having minimal or
trace amounts of organic material are properly classified here.
(2)
Note. This subclass includes compositions made without any
melting or fusion of particles, as well as those made by sintering,
that is, a process in which a portion of a nonmetallic particle
is bonded, coalesced, or partly fused to a portion of an adjacent
particle due to the application of heat or heat and pressure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Processes wherein the energy directly applied is utilized
for the (a) treatment* or formation of a magnetic article
or (b) treatment* or production of material to be used
to make said article.
Compositions,
subclasses 62.51+ for processes of preparing magnetic compositions
and the compositions resulting therefrom, as well as such processes
followed by a magnetizing and/or a nominal or broad molding step.
This subclass is indented under subclass 427. Processes wherein the magnetic product is subjected to temperatures
sufficiently high (with or without pressure) which causes said article to,
at least partially, coalesce or fuse.
(1)
Note. The term firing recited in a patent is considered to
read on either sintering or vitrifying and is included herein, unless
the firing is disclosed as being for some other purpose or at a
clearly too low or inadequate temperature to accomplish sintering
or vitrifying. Firing to render a mass friable (calcining) or firing at
a temperature only sufficient to drive out the moisture content
would, for example, be excluded.
for processes of sintering or heat fusion of particles
wherein the particulate material is completely melted, without the
use of electrical, particulate, or wave energy.
This subclass is indented under subclass 427. Processes wherein magnetic small grains, pellets or beads,
are adhesively joined using an organic material.
(1)
Note. Attention is directed to the definition of Class 260
for the distinction between the term "organic" and "inorganic."
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Processes wherein the energy directly applied is used in
the treatment* of or formation of inorganic material other
than as pigments, conductive enhancers or fillers.
(1)
Note. Inorganic material containing minimal or trace amounts
of organic material (e.g.,resinous binders, etc.) are properly classified
here.
(2)
Note. Attention is directed to the definition of Class 260
for the distinction between the term "organic" and "inorganic."
This subclass is indented under subclass 430. Processes wherein the inorganic material is subjected to
induction heat.
(1)
Note. Induction heat is considered to be heating of a nominally
electrical conducting material by eddy currents induced by a varying
electromagnetic field. When an alternating current flows through
a coil surrounding or adjacent a nominally conducting material,
eddy currents will be induced therein, causing said material to
be heated.
This subclass is indented under subclass 416. Processes in which the directly applied energy, is identified
on the electromagnetic wave spectrum, as existing between far infrared
and conventional radio-frequency.
(1)
Note. A microwave is generally considered to be an electromagnetic
wave which has a wavelength measured in the centimeter range. Microwaves
occupy a region in the electromagnetic wave spectrum between infrared
and radio-frequency. There are no distinct boundaries between these
regions except by arbitrary definition.
This subclass is indented under subclass 430. Processes wherein the inorganic material thereof is subjected
to temperatures sufficiently high (with or without pressure) which
causes said material to, at least partially, coalesce or fuse.
especially subclass 332, for processes of sintering
or heat fusion of particles wherein the particulate material is completely
melted, without the use of electrical, particulate or wave energy.
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Processes wherein the energy directly applied is used to
direct, shift, or arrange molecules, of the molding material, in
a particular order.
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Processes wherein the directly applied energy is used to
transport, arrange, or order small discrete pieces, grains, pellets,
or beads.
This subclass is indented under subclass 437. Processes directed to using electrical energy having a constant-intensity
electric charge which results in the capability of attracting and holding
small particles having an opposite electrical charge.
(1)
Note. Electrostatic charge is generally considered to be
an electric charge that is in a state of equilibrium.
This subclass is indented under subclass 439. Processes wherein the particulate material is arranged to
form at least two different, contiguous layers or portions, each
having a continuous phase (e.g., plural, adjacent, spacial distinct
layers, etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 439. Processes wherein a fine threadlike body or structure whose
width and thickness are of the same order of magnitude is formed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Processes directed to utilizing wave vibrations which cover
the use of (a) frequencies above the range of normal human hearing,
usually above 20,000 hertz and below radio waves (i.e., supersonic
or ultrasonic), or (b) frequencies which can be heard by the human
ear (from about 15 hertz to approximately 20,000 hertz).
This subclass is indented under subclass 443. Processes wherein at least two plastically deformable self-sustaining
bodies are assembled and autogenously united at a joint area by a
shaping operation with plastic flow to reshape said bodies at said
joint area.
This subclass is indented under subclass 446. Processes wherein the treated surface is that of a self-sustaining
continuous article or running length body.
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Processes , wherein electrical current is caused to flow
through a precursor or a workpiece by directly contacting said precursor
or workpiece with an electrode or wire.
(1)
Note. The electrode or wire may either remain as a part of
the workpiece or be detached therefrom.
This subclass is indented under subclass 449. Processes wherein the precursor or workpiece contains an
identified electroconductive material which aids the current flow.
(1)
Note. Organic material which contains small amounts of inorganic
material as conductive enhancers are properly classified here.
This subclass is indented under subclass 451. Processes wherein pressure is applied to a molding material
so as to force said material from a source removed from a closed
mold cavity into said cavity wherein the material assumes the shape
of the interior of the closed cavity.
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Processes wherein a positive or negative pressure is applied
through the medium of a liquid or gas, in direct contact with a
workpiece.
This subclass is indented under subclass 454. Processes wherein the energy applied consists of a gaseous
vapor of ions in equilibrium or a vapor of ions in vacuum in a nonequilibrium state
referred to as a "cold plasma."
(1)
Note. A plasma generally consists of a wholly or partially
ionized gas composed of ions, electrons, and neutral particles.
The concentration of negatively and positively charged carriers
are approximately equal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 454. Processes wherein the energy applied consists of (a) a prolonged
electrical discharge or series of prolonged electrical discharges
between two electrodes or (b) a narrow stream of electrons, moving
in the same direction and at the same speed under the influence
of an electric or magnetic field.
This subclass is indented under subclass 454. Processes wherein the material to be molded is subjected
to induction heat.
(1)
Note. Induction heat is considered to be heating of a nominally
electrical conducting material by eddy currents induced by a varying
electromagnetic field. When an alternating current flows through
a coil surrounding or adjacent a nominally conducting material,
eddy currents will be induced therein, causing said material to
be heated.
This subclass is indented under subclass 454. Processes wherein the energy applied is considered to have
a frequency range with wavelengths longer than those of visible
light and shorter than those of radio waves.
(1)
Note. Infrared radiation, measured using the electromagnetic
wave spectrum, is that portion which is visible to the eye, lying
between wavelengths of 750 nm (0.75 micrometers) and about 1 mm (1000
micrometers).
This subclass is indented under subclass 454. Processes wherein the molding material is caused to polymerize,
cross-link, or cure.
(1)
Note. Properly classified herein are documents claiming the
following terms. a. cross-linking b. curing c. addition polymerization
d. condensation polymerization e. block or graft polymerization. This
list is not intended to be exhaustive and is not limited to the
above examples.
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Processes wherein the energy applied is used to bond individually
distinct particles to each other or through a binder.
(1)
Note. The relative sizes of the particles are immaterial;
however, the particles must retain their discrete nature during the
associating and bonding operation. Further, the mere presence of
particles in a liquid carrier is not sufficient for this subclass
(e.g., fillers or slurries), this being considered to be the molding
of a fluent or liquid mass rather than the association of particles
and is provided for in appropriate subclasses below.
(2)
Note. The material is usually, but not necessarily, in the
form of fibers or granules and bonding of the particulate material
may be effected by applying an adhesive or by the latent adhesive
characteristics of the material.
for processes of molding (a) plastic compositions
containing particulate material as a filler or (b) colloidal or nonsettling
dispersions (e.g., rubber latex or clay) or (c) plastic particulate material
which lose their identity during molding to form a homogeneous product
and see (1) Note, above.
Textiles: Fiber Preparation,
subclasses 144+ for a process of bringing particles together, for
example by air laying, and see the notes in subclasses 144+ for
the line between Class 264 and Class 19.
Fuel and Related Compositions,
subclasses 550+ for a solid fuel consolidation or shaping process
which goes beyond mere molding of a starting composition, especially
subclasses 596+ for a process which includes pressing using
a specified condition or technique.
Abrasive Tool Making Process, Material, or Composition,
subclasses 293+ for processes of making abrading tools, the materials,
or compositions used therein.
Glass Manufacturing,
subclasses 3.1+ and 4.1+ for a process of forming glass
fibers from a glass melt and adhesively bonding the fibers by any bonding
medium or autogenously to form a glass fiber felt and subclasses 36+ for
a process of fusing glass fibers or particles to each other to form
a felt. See also the main definition of Class 264 for a further
statement of the line with Class 65.
Specialized Metallurgical Processes, Compositions
for Use Therein, Consolidated Metal Powder Compositions, and Loose
Metal Particulate Mixtures, see especially the notes thereto for the locus of other
art relating to particle uniting and
subclasses 228+ for a consolidated metal particle composition.
Presses,
subclasses 35+ for a method of intermingling and/or deforming particulate
material to mechanically unite the particles together at their respective
interfaces without use of a binder.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclass 62.2 for a process of forming a felted article by simultaneously
uniting of particles combined with the step of adhesively bonding
the felted article to another part.
Paper Making and Fiber Liberation,
subclasses 100+ for a process of forming an interfelted fibrous
product (e.g., paper interfelted fibrous product, paper from a liquid
fibrous suspension, etc.).
Distillation: Processes, Thermolytic,
subclasses 5+ for a process for a mechanical pressing or briquetting
of solid carbonaceous material combined with a thermolytic distillation
operation.
Powder Metallurgy Processes,
subclasses 61+ processes for making articles from metal particles
by pressure without heat and subclass 1 for similar processes which
use heat.
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles,
subclass 87 for a product with a pile or nap type surface and
including particulate matter, subclasses 143+ for a stock
material in the form of a single or plural layer web or sheet which
has a textured or rough surface comprising particulate matter, subclasses
323+ for a composite web or sheet including a component
having structurally defined particles, and subclasses 402+ for
structurally defined or coated particles.
This subclass is indented under subclass 460. Processes wherein the energy applied consists of a (a) prolonged
electrical discharge or series of prolonged electrical discharges
between two electrodes or (b) narrow stream of electrons moving
in the same direction, and at the same speed, under the influence
of an electric or magnetic field.
This subclass is indented under subclass 460. Processes wherein the energy applied is considered to have
a frequency range with wavelengths longer than those of visible
light and shorter than those of radio waves.
(1)
Note. Wave energy measured using the electromagnetic spectrum,
having a portion which is visible to the eye, lying between wavelengths
of 750 nm (0.75 micrometers) and about 1 mm (1000 micrometers) are
properly classified here as infrared.
This subclass is indented under subclass 460. Processes wherein the molding material is caused to polymerize,
cross-link, or cure.
(1)
Note. Properly classified herein are documents claiming the
following terms. a. cross-linking b. curing c. addition polymerization
d. condensation polymerization e. block or graft polymerization. This
list is not intended to be exhaustive and is not limited to the
above examples.
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Processes wherein an article is shaped or formed by extruding
or forcing a supply of the article forming material through a confining and
shaping orifice.
Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus,
subclasses 376.1+ for an extrusion shaping machine for nonmetals
and see the search notes thereunder.
This subclass is indented under subclass 464. Processes wherein the energy used is static electrical or
a force or field created thereby.
(1)
Note. Electrostatic energy is considered to be a form of
electrical energy which has the capability of attracting and holding
small particles having an opposite electrical charge.
(2)
Note. An electrostatic charge is an electric charge stored
in a capacitor or on the surface of an insulated object.
(3)
Note. An electrostatic field is considered to be the vector
force field set up in the vicinity of nonmoving electrical charges.
This subclass is indented under subclass 465. Processes wherein the extruded material forms on a portion
of material of finite length, whose width is greater than its thickness
and which may be of any geometric shape (e.g., triangle, circle,
etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 464. Processes wherein the energy applied consists of a gaseous
vapor of ions in equilibrium or a vapor of ions in vacuum in a nonequilibrium state
referred to as a "cold plasma."
(1)
Note. A plasma, generally consists of a wholly or partially
ionized gas composed of ions, electrons, and neutral particles.
The concentration of negatively and positively charged carriers
are approximately equal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 464. Processes wherein the energy applied consists of (a) a prolonged
electrical discharge or series of prolonged electrical discharges
between two electrodes or (b) a narrow stream of electrons moving
in the same direction, and at the same speed, under the influence
of an electric or magnetic field.
This subclass is indented under subclass 464. Processes wherein the extrusion material is subjected to
induction heat.
(1)
Note. Induction heat is considered to be heating of a nominally
electrical conducting material by eddy currents induced by a varying
electromagnetic field. When an alternating current flows through
a coil surrounding or adjacent a nominally conducting material,
eddy currents will be induced therein, causing said material to
be heated.
This subclass is indented under subclass 464. Processes wherein the directly applied energy is irradiation
with high energy electromagnetic radiation or high energy particles.
(1)
Note. The term high energy electromagnetic radiation or high
energy particles, as employed here, includes X-rays, gamma rays,
and particulate energy (i.e., charged particles and atomic emissions such
as alpha rays, beta rays, and neutrons). Electromagnetic wave energy measured
below wavelengths of 100 Angstroms (10 to the minus 8 meters) will
be considered high energy electromagnetic radiation or high energy
particle radiation. This subject matter is often referred to as
high energy ionizing radiation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 464. Processes wherein the directly applied energy is identified
on the electromagnetic wave spectrum as existing between far infrared
and conventional radio-frequency.
(1)
Note. A microwave is generally considered to be an electromagnetic
wave which has a wavelength measured in the centimeter range. Microwaves
occupy a region in the electromagnetic wave spectrum between infrared
and radio-frequency. There are no distinct boundaries between these
regions except by arbitrary definition.
This subclass is indented under subclass 464. Processes wherein the directly applied energy is identified
on the electromagnetic wave spectrum as existing between 150 KHz
and extending up to the infrared region.
This subclass is indented under subclass 464. Processes wherein the energy applied is considered to have
a frequency range with wavelengths longer than those of visible
light and shorter than those of radio waves.
(1)
Note. Wave energy measured using the electromagnetic spectrum,
having a portion which is visible to the eye, lying between wavelengths
of 750 nm (0.75 micrometers)and about 1 mm (1000 micrometers) are
properly classified here as infrared.
This subclass is indented under subclass 464. Processes wherein the molding material is caused to polymerize,
cross-link, or cure.
(1)
Note. Properly classified herein are documents claiming the
following terms. a. cross-linking b. curing c. addition polymerization
d. condensation polymerization e. block or graft polymerization. This
list is not intended to be exhaustive and is not limited to the
above examples.
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Processes wherein pressure is applied to a molding material
so as to force said material from a source removed from a closed
mold cavity into said cavity wherein the material assumes the shape
of the interior of the closed cavity.
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Processes wherein the energy is applied during any stage
of an operation to reconfigure, lengthen, or elongate a moldable
material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 479. Processes wherein the reconfigured, lengthened or elongated
material comprises at least two different, contiguous layers or
portions, each having a continuous phase (e.g., plural, adjacent,
spacial distinct layers, etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 479. Processes wherein the energy applied is considered to have
a frequency range with wavelengths longer than those of visible
light and shorter than those of radio waves.
(1)
Note. Wave energy measured using the electromagnetic spectrum,
having a portion which is visible to the eye, lying between wavelengths
of 750 nm (0.75 micrometers) and about 1 mm (1000 micrometers) are
properly classified here as infrared.
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Processes wherein the energy directly applied is a narrow
beam of coherent light (light amplification by stimulated emissions
of radiation).
Electric Heating,
subclasses 121.11+ for processes utilizing electric heat energy, per
se, wherein the heat source is an electron beam, plasma, arc, laser,
etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Processes wherein the energy directly applied consists of
a gaseous vapor of ions in equilibrium or a vapor of ions in vacuum
in a nonequilibrium state referred to as a "cold plasma."
(1)
Note. A plasma, generally consists of a wholly or partially
ionized gas composed of ions, electrons, and neutral particles.
The concentration of negatively and positively charged carriers
are approximately equal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Processes wherein the energy used is static electrical or
the force or field created thereby.
(1)
Note. Electrostatic energy is considered to be a form of electrical
energy which has the capability of attracting and holding small
particles having an opposite electrical charge.
(2)
Note. An electrostatic charge is considered to be electric
energy stored in a capacitor or on the surface of an insulated object.
(3)
Note. An electrostatic field is considered to be the vector
force field set up in the vicinity of non-moving electrical charges.
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Processes wherein the energy applied consists of (a) a prolonged
electrical discharge or series of prolonged electrical discharges
between two electrodes or (b) a narrow stream of electrons moving
in the same direction, and at the same speed, under the influence
of an electric or magnetic field.
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Processes wherein the material is subjected to induction
heat.
(1)
Note. Induction heat is considered to be heating of a nominally
electrical conducting material by eddy currents induced by a varying
electromagnetic field. When an alternating current flows through
a coil surrounding or adjacent a nominally conducting material,
eddy currents will be induced therein, causing said material to
be heated.
This subclass is indented under subclass 486. Processes wherein the induction heat is directly applied
to a work-piece comprising at least two different, contiguous layers
or portions, each having a continuous phase (e.g., plural, adjacent,
spacial distinct layers, etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Processes wherein the directly applied energy is irradiation
with high energy electromagnetic radiation or high energy particles.
(1)
Note. The term high energy electromagnetic radiation or "high
energy particles," as employed here, includes X-rays,
gamma rays, and particulate energy (i.e., charged particles and
atomic emissions such as alpha rays, beta rays, and neutrons).
Electromagnetic wave energy measured below wavelengths of 100 Angstroms
(10 to the minus 8 meters) will be considered "high energy electromagnetic
radiation" or "high energy particle radiation." This
subject matter is often referred to as "high energy ionizing
radiation."
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Processes wherein the directly applied energy is identified
on the electromagnetic wave spectrum as existing between far infrared
and conventional radio-frequency.
(1)
Note. A microwave is generally considered to be an electromagnetic
wave which has a wavelength measured in the centimeter range. Microwaves
occupy a region in the electromagnetic wave spectrum between infrared
and radio-frequency. There are no distinct boundaries between these
regions except by arbitrary definition.
This subclass is indented under subclass 489. Processes wherein the microwave energy is directly applied
to a workpiece comprising at least two different, contiguous layers
or portions, each having a continuous phase (e.g., plural, adjacent,
spacial distinct layers, etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Processes wherein the directly applied energy is identified
on the electromagnetic wave spectrum as existing between 150 KHz
and extending up to the infrared region.
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Processes wherein the energy applied is considered to have
a frequency range with wavelengths longer than those of visible
light and shorter than those of radio waves.
(1)
Note. Wave energy measured using the electromagnetic spectrum,
having a portion which is visible to the eye, lying between wavelengths
of 750 nm (0.75 micrometers) and about 1 mm (1000 micrometers) are
properly classified here as infrared.
This subclass is indented under subclass 492. Processes wherein the infrared radiation is directly applied
to a work-piece comprising at least two different, contiguous layers
or portions, each having a continuous phase (e.g., plural, adjacent,
spacial distinct layers, etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Processes wherein the molding material is caused to polymerize,
cross-link, or cure.
(1)
Note. Properly classified herein are documents claiming the
following terms. a. cross-linking b. curing c. addition polymerization
d. condensation polymerization e. block or graft polymerization. This
list is not intended to be exhaustive and is not limited to the
above examples.
This subclass is indented under subclass 494. Processes wherein the polymerizing, cross-linking, or curing
takes place while in a mold or in contact with a molding surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Processes directed to selective laser induced heat sintering
to bond individually randomly associated distinct and deposited
particles to form a complete three-dimensional article by building
up layers containing a major amount of the particulate material.
(1)
Note. The relative sizes of the particles are immaterial,
however the particles must retain their discrete nature during the
associating and bonding operation. Further, the mere presence of
particles in a liquid carrier is not sufficient for this subclass
(e.g., fillers or slurries, etc.,) since this is considered to be
molding of a fluent or liquid mass rather than the association of
particles and is provided for in appropriate subclasses below.
(2)
Note. The material is usually, but not necessarily, in the
form of fibers or granules and bonding of the particulate material
may be effected by applying an adhesive or by the latent adhesive
characteristics of the material.
(3)
Note. Generally, the subject matter found in this subclass
includes dispensing a layer which comprises a plurality of blended
or coated powdered materials having different dissociation or bonding temperatures
and applying a binder to selected portions of the powdered material,
for example by way of an ink-jet print head. The locations that
receive the binder are defined according to a cross-section of the
part to be produced, communicated to the apparatus by a CAD, computer
assisted design, data base. A roller is often used to assist in
the proper delivery and alignment of the powdered material. Each
powdered layer is selectively sintered by a CAD laser causing layer
buildup thereby forming a complete three-dimensional product.
for processes of molding (a) plastic compositions
containing particulate material as a filler, (b) colloidal or non-settling
dispersions (e.g., rubber latex, clay, etc.), and (c) plastic particulate
material which lose their identity during molding to form a homogeneous
product (see (1) Note, above).
DIRECT APPLICATION OF FLUID PRESSURE DIFFERENTIAL TO PERMANENTLY
SHAPE, DISTORT, OR SUSTAIN WORK:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes wherein a positive or negative pressure is applied
through the medium of a liquid or gas in direct contact with a workpiece to
form or maintain a desired configuration.
(1)
Note. The utilization of steam pressure as a source of heat
is not included here unless the steam serves to shape, support,
or sustain the work. Steam to heat is classified below based on
the specific molding or treatment step.
(2)
Note. Introduction of fluent material into a mold under pressure
is not here unless a gas pressure medium acts directly on the material
in the mold cavity. Thus, injection molding utilizing pneumatic
pressure to inject the molding material is not here if the pneumatic pressure
acts through a column of molding material such as a gate portion
of the article. Injection of the molding material rather than directly
on the body molding is provided for in subclasses 328+ below.
Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus,
subclasses 387+ for preform reshaping by direct application of
gas pressure (e.g., inflating, etc.); see the search notes thereunder.
This subclass is indented under subclass 501. Processes in which an exterior portion of the toroidal surface
is unconfined during the application of differential fluid pressure.
(1)
Note. The processes included herein result in a toroid with
an outward projection.
This subclass is indented under subclass 500. Processes in which rotating motion is imparted to the material
being shaped or to the mold or shaping surface.
for processes in which rotating motion is imparted
to the material shaped or to the mold without the direct application
of differential fluid pressure.
Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus,
subclasses 425+ for a molding machine utilizing mold motion to
distribute or compact a fluent material in a mold.
This subclass is indented under subclass 500. Processes in which application of fluid pressure results
in the formation of a hole or aperture in a workpiece or in which
direct application of fluid pressure smooths or cuts a green concrete
article.
(1)
Note. Excluded herefrom are flash and sprue trimmings by
fluid pressure differential and such is provided for in subclass
536.
This subclass is indented under subclass 500. Processes in which a portion of the workpiece is formed
so as to have a cross section having a ternate ridges and grooves.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclasses 202+ and subclasses 205+ for corrugating of
indefinite length work combined with a laminating operation; and
210 for corrugating and laminating to a noncorrugated lamina.
This subclass is indented under subclass 500. Processes in which an article or preform (a) is subjected
to differential fluid pressure which results in the production of
a raised or depressed area in the form of a word or trademark or
symbol: or (b) has a label (i.e., preform which is intended to
carry printed information which is thin relative to its other dimensions)
attached to its surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 500. Processes in which two or more united preforms and/or
layers are reshaped or in which a layer is formed on a preform to
produce a product with two or more generally contiguous layers or
two or more layers are coextruded.
(1)
Note. The layers may be of the same or different material
so long as there is a difference in some property of the layers.
(2)
Note. Uniting shaped sheets to form a hollow article is not
considered to make a multilayered product and is provided for in
subclass 545.
This subclass is indented under subclass 510. Processes in which a negative pressure differential is used
to hold, support, or sustain a preform to which material is molded
or cast.
This subclass is indented under subclass 512. Processes in which pressure is applied to the molding material
so as to force the material from a source removed from a closed
mold cavity into the cavity wherein said material assumes the shape
of the interior of said cavity.
This subclass is indented under subclass 514. Processes in which a finite length hollow parison is forced
into conformity with a female mold by the application of differential
fluid pressure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 512. Processes in which a preform is introduced into or applied
to the surface of an article or introduced into a fluent material
which is formed into an article or preform.
(1)
Note. This subclass does not include forming one tubular
object from fluent material and then forming another layer thereon.
This subclass is indented under subclass 500. Processes directed to bonding to each other individually
distinct particles which are associated randomly by bulk handling
or deposition to form a layer containing a major amount of the particulate
material.
(1)
Note. The relative sizes of the particles are immaterial;
however, the particles must retain their discrete nature during the
associating and bonding operation. Further, the mere presence of
particles in a liquid carrier is not sufficient for this subclass
(e.g., fillers or slurries), this being considered to be the molding
or a fluent or liquid mass rather than the association of particles
and is provided for in appropriate subclasses below.
(2)
Note. The material is usually but not necessarily in the
form of fibers or granules and bonding of the particulate material
may be effected by applying an adhesive or by the latent adhesive
characteristics of the material.
Powder Metallurgy Processes,
subclasses 39+ for processes for making articles from metal-containing
particulate material using pressure and heat wherein the particulate
material is formed into a shaped body prior to sintering or heating
and a specific pressure or the lack of pressure is recited for the
forming step.
This subclass is indented under subclass 500. Processs in which different degrees of heating or cooling
are positively applied to the workpiece to cause one part to be
a higher temperature than another.
(1)
Note. To be placed herein, a patent should recite a positively
applied temperature differential. Normal heating or cooling to
ambient temperatures, for example, wherein an article may be cooled
at the surface temporarily more than at the core, is not sufficient
to place a patent herein.
(2)
Note. This subclass does not include heating for stress relief
after forming, such processes will be found with the molding process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 519. Processes in which a finite length preform is forced into
conformity with a female mold.
(1)
Note. Finite length parison includes a hollow cylindrical
body of plastic which is usually sealed at one end either in its preformed
state or as part of the ongoing process. The finite length parison
may be a preform or the process herein may include the molding of
the parison.
This subclass is indented under subclass 519. Processes in which the starting material is a generally
planar nonhollow preform or the product is of finite length.
(1)
Note. The starting material may be cut off a continuous or
running length feed roll.
(2)
Note. This subclass provides for processes generally referred
to as sheet shaping or thermoforming including a step of differential
temperature conditioning.
This subclass is indented under subclass 500. Processes in which a finite length hollow parison is expanded
into conformity with a female mold by the application of a differential
fluid pressure.
(1)
Note. A parison in general is a hollow cylindrical preform
of relatively smaller diameter than length which may be sealed or
open and of an overall size suitable for blow molding.
(2)
Note. Excluded from this subclass are processes which deform
a flat sheet by forcing it into a female mold, such is provided
for in subclasses 544+.
This subclass is indented under subclass 523. Processes in which the product of the process is a completely
sealed article or in which the article is filled with a fluid and
sealed.
(1)
Note. Included herein are balls, incomplete containers, i.e.,
without filling openings and filled containers.
Food or Edible Material: Processes, Compositions,
and Products, for forming a container by differential fluid pressure
wherein the fluid is claimed as an edible within that class definition.
This subclass is indented under subclass 524. Processes in which molding is carried out in such a manner
as to produce an internally sterile article or to maintain a sterile
condition in a preform being treated.
This subclass is indented under subclass 523. Processes in which the parison is vented internally to remove
a blowing fluid or a vacuum applied
to created differential fluid pressure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 523. Processes in which two or more containers are formed from
a single finite length parison in a single or sequential operation
in a single mold block.
(1)
Note. This subclass does not include continuous clamshell
molds that act on an indefinite length hollow tube.
(2)
Note. Mold block, as used herein, includes a single shape
defining means which defines one or more hollow articles.
This subclass is indented under subclass 523. Processes in which expansion by differential fluid pressure
of the parison takes place in two or more sequential steps each
of which causes deformation.
(1)
Note. One of the steps of expansion may be prepuffing or
free expanding of the workpiece.
(2)
Note. The two or more expansion steps may take place in the
same or different molds, or one expansion step may be carried outside
the mold, i.e., free blowing followed by blow molding, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 523. Processes in which sequential reshaping is carried out by
physical contact with relatively moving forming means.
(1)
Note. Severing, bottom pinching and neck molding wherein
the neck is molded as an inherent step in the closing of the mold
about the parison or workpiece are not considered reshaping within
the meaning of this subclass; however, if a separate neck mold is closed
about the neck portion or a mandrel is inserted forcing material
into a neck mold portion of a closed mold this would be sufficient
to be considered reshaping for purposes of this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 531. Processes in which, by application of physical force by
a machine part, the greatest dimension of a parison or workpiece
is increased.
(1)
Note. The mechanical stretching may be accompanied by increased
fluid pressure differential.
(2)
Note. The mechanical stretching may be accomplished by internal
or external contact.
(3)
Note. Punching of holes in a container absent other significant
deformation is not included herein. Hole formation by differential
fluid pressure is provided for in subclass 504.
This subclass is indented under subclass 531. Processes in which the neck of a container is reshaped by
application of mechanical force other than the closing of the mold
for the body of the container.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes neck calibration when it takes
place as a step separate from the closing of the mold.
This subclass is indented under subclass 531. Processes in which the mechanical reshaping takes place
after an expansion by differential fluid pressure.
(1)
Note. Included herein are, for example, processes for giving
a container a concave bottom by deformation of a flat or convex
bottom.
This subclass is indented under subclass 523. Processes in which the cool preformed parison is reheated
to a temperature where it may be shaped by differential fluid pressure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 523. Processes in which subsequent to deformation caused by differential
fluid pressure flash or sprue is removed or part of the molded article is
cutaway to form an aperture or two articles are separated by severing.
(1)
Note. The severing or removal of flash or sprue may be by
the application of differential fluid pressure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 523. Processes in which the parison has at least a portion thereof
formed by application of pressure which forces material into a closed
mold cavity under pressure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 537. Processes in which the parison or workpiece is caused to
move in a manner so as to describe or approximate the arc of a circle
from one work station to another.
(1)
Note. A workpiece is parison which has been worked on in
some manner, e.g., blown, sealed, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 537. Processes in which material is shaped to the cross section
of an orifice by forcing it through the confining orifice.
This subclass is indented under subclass 523. Processes in which material is shaped to the cross section
of an orifice by forcing it through the confining orifice.
This subclass is indented under subclass 540. Processes in which the formed article is of nonuniform cross
section throughout its length, or a portion thereof, which may result
from a gradual change in transverse dimension or through intermittent
or repeated separated irregularities therein.
This subclass is indented under subclass 542. Processes in which the workpiece is caused to move in a
manner so as to describe or approximate the arc of a circle from
one work station to another.
This subclass is indented under subclass 500. Processes in which the starting material is a generally
planar nonhollow preform or the product of the process is a finite
length sheet.
(1)
Note. The starting material may be cut off a continuous or
running length feed roll.
(2)
Note. This subclass provides for what is generally termed
sheet shaping.
This subclass is indented under subclass 544. Processes in which the material shaped is solely a woven
or nonwoven fabric.
(1)
Note. This does not include shaping of fabrics which are
a reinforcing layer in a laminate but will include the temporary uniting
of a fabric with a fluid impervious layer for purposes of shaping.
This subclass is indented under subclass 544. Processes in which the differential fluid pressure is applied
in sequential noncontinuous increments.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes processes in which a sheet is
forced in one direction and then the opposite direction by application
of differential fluid pressure.
(2)
Note. A step of curing or vulcanization is not for purposes
of this subclass a shaping step.
This subclass is indented under subclass 547. Processes in which the workpiece is by application of differential
fluid pressure, forced into contact with a heated surface before
further shaping.
This subclass is indented under subclass 547. Processes in which a member contacts and deforms or stretches
a sheet of material in an axial direction before the application
of differential fluid pressure to force it into conformity with
a female mold which determines the shape of the workpiece.
This subclass is indented under subclass 544. Processes in which a member contacts and deforms or stretches
a sheet of material in an axial direction before the application
of differential fluid pressure to force it into conformity with
a female mold which determines the shape of the workpiece.
This subclass is indented under subclass 550. Processes in which a plurality of deforming members act
to deform or stretch a plurality of sheets or a number of locations
on a single sheet.
This subclass is indented under subclass 500. Processes in which a continuous or running length product
is produced.
(1)
Note. In this and the indented subclass mechanical treatment
of a continuous or running length tube as by cutting off or slitting
will not defeat placement herein.
This subclass is indented under subclass 555. Processes in which the indefinite length article is formed
by depositing fluent material on a cylindrical rotating surface
and solidifying the fluent material.
(1)
Note. See subclass 212 and the notes thereunder for related
fields of search.
This subclass is indented under subclass 558. Processes in which the workpiece is caused to travel in
a downward direction in or into a liquid bath after an initial forming
step or the workpiece is caused to travel in a downward direction
into annular liquid contact after an initial forming step.
(1)
Note. The initial forming step is typically the extrusion
of the tubular workpiece.
This subclass is indented under subclass 557. Processes in which a sizing operation follows the initial
forming operation or forming takes place with the use of an internal
forming or supporting member.
This subclass is indented under subclass 557. Processes in which a fluent or solid material is contacted
with a liquid which causes a chemical reaction to take place.
(1)
Note. A plasticizer in the absence of a clear showing to
the contrary is presumed to be nonreactive.
This subclass is indented under subclass 563. Processes in which the tubular product is shaped or deformed
by the application of differential fluid pressure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 564. Processes in which the tubular product is internally shaped
or supported by an internal solid member or by gas issuing from
a solid internal member.
This subclass is indented under subclass 564. Processes in which the tubular product is shaped by the
application of a positive or negative differential pressure to its
exterior surface.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes application of positive physical
pressure by means of a mechanical device in contact with the work.
This subclass is indented under subclass 566. Processes in which the work is subjected to a pressure less
than atmospheric.
(1)
Note. Vacuum as used in this subclass does not include blowing
air across the surface of a tubular product and thus producing a
negative pressure by a venturi effect.
This subclass is indented under subclass 566. Processes in which fluid is applied externally in a band
around the circumference of a tubular product which band is of much
shorter length than the tubular article.
HEAT POLISHING (E.G., GLAZING, ETC.) OF INORGANIC ARTICLE
SURFACE OUTSIDE OF MOLD:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes for producing inorganic article by firing outside
of the mold at temperatures sufficiently high to cause only a surface of the article to become
melt smoothed or melt rounded without substantial loss of original self-sustaining
shape of the overall article.
for particular or specific manner of positioning,
arranging, or conveying of plural blocks, tiles, or bricks (e.g., stacking,
utilizing spacer, etc.) during sintering, vitrifying, or drying.
Coating Processes, for processes including the combination of (a) firing and
coating, or (b) nominal molding, significant coating,
and firing; regardless of the sequence of the respective steps.
However, combinations of (a) significant molding,
firing, and coating, or (b) nominal molding and nominal coating
are classified in Class 264; regardless of the sequence of the respective
steps.
This subclass is indented under subclass 600. Process wherein articles or preforms undergoing treatment
are, often hand-sized, usually rectangular or square, building blocks
of material containing clay (i.e., an earthy material that is composed
of hydrous aluminum silicates and other materials that are plastic
when moist and hard when fired) identified as a block, tile, or brick.
(1)
Note. Lacking an indication to the contrary, the mere use
of block, tile, or brick without indicated composition will be considered
proper for this subclass, even if not disclosed to contain clay.
for particular or specific manner of positioning,
arranging, or conveying of plural blocks, tiles, or bricks (e.g., stacking,
utilizing spacer, etc.) during sintering, vitrifying, or drying.
This subclass is indented under subclass 600. Process wherein there is a combination of significant shaping
and coating of the shaped preform outside of the mold.
Coating Processes, for processes including the combination of (a) firing and
coating, or (b) nominal molding, significant coating,
and firing; regardless of the sequence of the respective steps.
However, combinations of (a) significant molding,
firing, and coating, or (b) nominal molding and nominal coating
are classified in Class 264; regardless of the sequence of the respective
steps.
(1)
Note. When sintering or firing of a coated or impregnated
fibrous shaped material results in decomposition of the fibrous
material and production of a noncoated or nonimpregnated shaped
product, the process will be considered proper for Class 264.
OUTSIDE OF MOLD SINTERING OR VITRIFYING OF SHAPED INORGANIC ARTICLE
OR PREFORM:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes for producing or treating inorganic shaped articles
in which a self-sustaining shaped article or preform comprising
inorganic materials or precursors thereof are fired outside of
the mold at temperatures sufficiently high to cause said article
or preform to become sintered or vitrified without substantial loss
of original self-sustaining shape due to sagging or gravity.
(1)
Note. Vitrification is a
densification of inorganic ceramic material that results from firing
at sufficient temperature to produce a progressive fusion of particles through
the assistance of a viscous liquid silaceous-like bonding phase
into a body having dense glass-like characteristics (e.g., hardness,
brittleness, smoothness, etc.). As vitrification progresses, the
proportion of glassy-like bond formed increases and apparent porosity
of the substance decreases without appreciable slumping or sagging. Sintering is the coalescence of parts
through solid state diffusion into a densified solid mass through
heating, generally with fusion limited to only surface layer of
each particle, such that some particulate identity remains. The
partial melting or vitrification of inorganic materials in the mold
is provided for in various subclasses below, such as subclasses
109+ or 332+.
(2)
Note. The terms baking, burning, calcining, or firing recited
in a patent is considered to read on either sintering or vitrifying
and is included herein, unless disclosed as being for some other
purpose or at a clearly too low or inadequate temperature to accomplish
sintering or vitrifying. Baking, burning, calcining, or firing
outside the mold of shaped articles to decompose binder or organometallic
precursors is included hereinunder if other criteria of this subclass
definition are met. However, baking, burning, calcining, or firing,
(a) to render a mass friable, (b) at a temperature only sufficient to
drive out the moisture content, or (c) to volatilize organic material
without decomposition would be excluded from subclasses 603+.
(3)
Note. Articles formed by accretion from bulk having embedded
therein a form to be removed during or after firing are considered
to be self-sustaining bodies for the purpose of this subclass.
(4)
Note. Hot isostatic pressing (i.e., HIP) relates to application
of an equalized fluid pressure to all external sides or surfaces
of an article. This is usually performed outside of a mold in a
gaseous atmosphere at substantially elevated temperatures and pressures.
Lacking an indication to the contrary, hot isostatic pressing per
se of an article or preform will therefore be assumed to occur outside
of a mold at a temperature sufficiently high to be proper for this subclass.
Shaping by applying hot isostatic fluid pressure to a preform using surrounding
liquid (e.g., molten glass coating, melted tin, etc.) or fluid pressure-transmitting
deformable sheath (e.g., metal foil, etc.) will be considered to
be outside a mold for purposes of this subclass. However, so-called "pseudoisostatic
pressing" with loose particulate between solid pressing
surfaces and preform will not be considered proper for this subclass.
(5)
Note. See Lines With Other Classes, "Lines With
the Chemical Classes" (8) of the class definition.
Glass Manufacturing, appropriate subclasses for processes under the class definition
which include glass fusing or vitrifying. A process directed to
(a) heating a material within the scope of Class 65 to the molten
state and forming a shaped preform therefrom, or (b) bulk depositing
glass fibers into a mold surface and thereafter fusing the fibers
to each other is classified in Class 65. See the definitions of
Class 65, section III B, with particular reference to the line with
this class 264 for processes. See also the search notes to Class
65,
subclasses 17.3 , 376, and 454; and see the class definitions in
this class 264 for further delineation of the line with Class 65.
(1)
Note. With regard to glass particle uniting, a recitation
of placing of glass particles (i.e., other than glass fibers or
mineral wool) in their final position in a mold, followed by autogenous
uniting or sintering outside the mold in the configuration or shape
imparted by said mold, will be classified in this Class 264; whether
or not said particles are disclosed to maintain their individual
identities to any degree. Class 264 takes processes directed to
(a) shaping a mass of green siliceous material and subsequently
firing or curing the material to set the material or (b) placing
discrete siliceous particles (i.e., other than glass fibers or mineral
wool) onto a mold surface which particles are heated on or subsequent
to contact with the surface to fuse the particles to each other.
(2)
Note. Using a glass in a molten state as a fluid pressure
transmitting media in hot isostatic pressing of shaped articles
is acceptable in Class 264, if the glass is subsequently removed
and is not part of the final pressed product.
Specialized Metallurgical Processes, Compositions
For Use Therein, Consolidated Metal Powder Compositions etc., particularly
subclasses 751+ for processes of heat treating (e.g., calcinating,
fusing, indurating, roasting, sintering, vaporizing, etc.) to preparing
consolidated shaped metalliferous charges (e.g., ore, tailings,
flue dust, fluxes, etc.) or metalliferous treating agents amenable
to Class 75 or Class 420 refining or alloying operation.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclasses 89.11+ for vitrification or firing of a ceramic material
when combined with a laminating step joining preforms.
Powder Metallurgy Processes,
subclasses 10+ for processes of making articles from particulate
material containing a metal and nonmetal involving pressure and
heat (e.g., sintering, etc.).
(1)
Note. Combined operations involving sintering particulate metal
and particulate ceramic is proper for Class 419.
(2)
Note. If, after Class 419 consolidation of metal particles,
subsequent processing eliminates completely all
free metal from the consolidated shaped particulate free metal by
total conversion thereof to a metal compound or composition (e.g.,
metal oxide, metal nitride, etc.) as a result of firing or sintering
outside of the mold under reactive conditions, placement is to be
considered proper in this section of Class 264.
Coating Processes, for processes including the combination of (a) firing and
coating, or (b) nominal molding, significant coating, and firing;
regardless of the sequence of the respective steps. However, combinations
of (a) significant molding, firing, and coating, or (b) nominal
shaping and nominal coating are classified in Class 264; regardless
of the sequence of the respective steps. See this class
subclass 129 , Note (1), for a discussion of shaping and coating
combinations.
(1)
Note. When sintering or firing of a coated or impregnated
fibrous material results in decomposition of the fibrous material
which acts as a shaping surface and production of a noncoated or
nonimpregnated shaped product, the process will be considered proper
for Class 264.
Heating,
subclass 6 for a residual heating process including a step
of stacking or aligning the objects to be heated and subclasses
258+ for means for supporting ceramic work during heating;
(i.e., kiln furniture).
Compositions: Ceramic, appropriate subclass for ceramic compositions, per
se, and processes of preparing such compositions.
(1)
Note. When nominal molding of a Class 501 composition is involved,
placement in Class 501 is proper if limited to the conditions set
forth in any one of the following situations: (a) No conditions
are specified. (b) Firing for a specified time at a specified temperature
(e.g., firing for 10 minutes at 1000°F, etc.). (c) Blending or
mixing of ingredients of said composition during or prior to the molding
step and a chemical reaction present.
(2)
Note. When molding of a Class 501 composition is involved, Class
264 is proper if any one of the following situations are present:
(a) Significant molding. (b) Nominal molding and specifying firing
or sintering temperature without specifying time of heating. (c)
Nominal molding and raising to specified temperature in a specified
time (e.g., raising to 1000° F in 10 minutes, etc.). (d) Nominal
molding and plural heating steps during or after molding (e.g.,
ramping in stages, etc.). (e) Nominal molding, firing and controlled
cooling. (f) Nominal molding and specifying pressure. (g) Nominal
molding and blending or mixing ceramic with a temporary binder and
firing which decomposes the binder.
(3)
Note. When there is any doubt concerning placement between Class
501 and Class 264 concerning nominal molding, resulting from variations not addressed by the above notes (1) or
(2), original placement will go to Class 264 with a mandatory cross-reference to
Class 501.
(4)
Note. When there is (a) a process claim present that is proper
for Class 264 and (b) a product claim classifiable as Class 501
composition expressed in terms of starting material, placement of
original goes to Class 264. However, when there is (a) a process
claim present that is proper for Class 264 and (b) a product claim
classifiable as a Class 501 composition expressed in terms of a
final processed state (e.g., "sintered" composition,
etc.), placement of original goes to Class 501.
Hazardous or Toxic Waste Destruction or Containment,
subclasses 252+ for the use of vitrification in the treatment of
hazardous or toxic waste for purposes of containment.
This subclass is indented under subclass 603. Process wherein the shaped article or preform is subjected
to (a) hot isostatic pressing by uniformly applying fluid pressure
thereto through a encompassing liquid (e.g., molten glass, melted
tin, etc.), or (b) hot isostatic fluid pressing through an encompassing
transitory plastic or deformable sheath which transmits the compressing
force isostatically to consolidate the preform without the direct
contact of the fluid.
(1)
Note. Since particulate material is not an article or preform,
consolidating of loose particulate by fluid pressure while encased
in a transitory plastic or deformable sheath will be considered
a molding step classifiable elsewhere in this class, such as in
subclasses 500+.
This subclass is indented under subclass 603. Processes wherein multiple articles or preforms are placed
or aligned in a particular manner or are in a particular motion
other than mere conveying during sintering, vitrifying, or drying.
for particular or specific manner of positioning,
arranging or conveying of single article or single preform during
firing (e.g., utilizing spacer, etc.)
This subclass is indented under subclass 605. Process wherein a temporary support is utilized for holding
plural articles or plural preforms within a furnace or heating means
during heat treatment.
This subclass is indented under subclass 607. Process wherein, during a heating step outside a mold, two
or more articles are arranged one above the other with an intervening
separating means therebetween.
This subclass is indented under subclass 605. Process wherein articles or preforms undergoing treatment
are hand-sized, usually rectangular, or square building block of
material containing clay (i.e., an earthy material that is composed
of hydrous aluminum silicates and other materials that are plastic
when moist and hard when fired) identified as a block, tile, or brick.
(1)
Note. Lacking an indication to the contrary, the mere use
of block, tile, or brick will be considered proper for this subclass,
whether or not disclosed to contain clay.
This subclass is indented under subclass 603. Process wherein a specifically located embedded shaping
element or core is concurrently decomposed or liquified to provide
a nonrandom empty region or hole in an article or preform during
sintering or vitrifying of an article or preform.
for in situ processes of internally forming pores
or voids in an article or material by occluding or incorporating
void forming or void producing elements or ingredients randomly throughout the plastic forming
material.
(1)
Note. A binder will not be considered a void forming or void
producing element or ingredient.
This subclass is indented under subclass 611. Process wherein the magnetic article or preform undergoing
shaping or treatment includes either (a) an organic material that
serves to hold material together in a temporary or green shape,
or (b) a compound of metal and an organic material as a transitional
precursor to the final product.
(1)
Note. Normally, organic or organometallic compounds will decompose
before fusing or sintering occurs. Thus, the mere indication of
decomposition thereof will not make placement proper under 603,
unless the other criteria for Class 264 sintering, vitrifying, or
partial fusion is present.
This subclass is indented under subclass 611. Process wherein the composition or chemical characteristic
of the gaseous environment is identified and is not air.
This subclass is indented under subclass 603. Process wherein the article or preform undergoing shaping
or treatment is an electrical device or an electrical component
utilized for conducting or controlling electrical current as part
of an electrical device.
(1)
Note. An electrical insulator, per se, will not be considered
proper for this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 614. Process wherein the electrical article or component produced
is a device consisting of two conducting surfaces separated by an
insulating material (e.g., air, glass, etc.) and which device is
used to store electrical energy or to release stored electrical
energy dependent upon the potential difference between the separated
conducting surfaces, thus producing a discharge therebetween to
temporarily complete a circuit.
This subclass is indented under subclass 614. Process wherein the electrical article or component produced
is made of a material that has a specified opposition to the flow
of electrical current and is intended to be used to control the amount
of electrical current in a circuit.
This subclass is indented under subclass 616. Process wherein the resistor varies in resistance depending
on the amount of electrical current flowing through a circuit.
This subclass is indented under subclass 614. Process wherein the electrical article or component produced
is an electrode or coil having at least part of the electrode structure
adjacent to or composed of ceramic material or shaped solid electrolyte.
This subclass is indented under subclass 614. Process wherein the electrical article or component produced
includes a configured electrically conductive metal element or connection, other
than an electrode, that is embedded within or applied thereon.
This subclass is indented under subclass 603. Process wherein either (a) a liquid colloidal suspension,
or (b) a colloid in which the disperse phase has combined with the
continuous phase to produce a viscous, jelly-like material, is utilized
at any stage.
This subclass is indented under subclass 621. Process wherein the article is formed by the free and unconfined
pulling out of a plastic mass.
(1)
Note. The surface configuration of the article formed is imparted
solely by the extension and not by coaction of the plastic mass
with a shape imparting mold surface.
(2)
Note. Kneading or mulling operations, per se, (e.g., taffy
pulling type, etc.) are not included herein since a shaped article is
not produced. See subclass 349 and the notes thereto for such subject
matter.
This subclass is indented under subclass 621. Process wherein an article is formed by forcing a supply
of article forming material through a confining and shaping orifice.
Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus,
subclasses 376.1+ for an extrusion shaping machine for nonmetals;
see the search notes thereunder.
This subclass is indented under subclass 603. Process in which a compound of metal and an organic material,
or silicon and an organic material is the transitional precursor
to the final shaped product.
(1)
Note. Normally, organometallic or organosilicon compounds
will decompose before fusing or sintering occurs. Thus, the mere
indication of decomposition thereof will not make placement proper under
603, unless the other criteria of Class 264 sintering, vitrifying,
or partial fusion is present.
This subclass is indented under subclass 624. Process wherein a product containing a binary compound
of carbon and metal or silicon (e.g., metal carbide, silicon carbide,
etc.) or tertiary compound of carbon, nitrogen, and metal or silicon
(e.g., metal carbonitride, silicon carbonitride, iron nitrocarbide,
etc.) is produced.
This subclass is indented under subclass 624. Process wherein a product containing a binary compound of
nitrogen and metal or silicon (e.g., metal nitride, silicon nitride,
etc.) or tertiary compound of nitrogen, oxygen, and metal or silicon
(e.g., metal oxynitride, silicon oxynitride, etc.) is produced.
This subclass is indented under subclass 624. Process wherein a relatively small, slender discrete mass
having length considerably greater than its breadth (i.e., cross-sectional
diameter) is produced.
This subclass is indented under subclass 603. Process for treating an article expressed or claimed as
having small open or interconnected randomly distributed microvoids
or producing an article expressed or claimed as having small open
or interconnected randomly distributed microvoids by uniting particulate
material.
(1)
Note. Impregnating a porous preform (e.g.,
sponge, etc.) with inorganic material followed by sintering outside
of the mold to cause formation of a porous inorganic body while
decomposing the preform which acts as a shaping surface is proper
under this subclass.
for in situ processes of internally forming pores
or voids in an article or material by intentionally
occluding or incorporating void forming or void producing
elements or ingredients randomly throughout
the plastic forming material.
(1)
Note. Thus, incorporating particulate organic material in
an inorganic forming material with subsequent burning decomposition
of the particulate organic material to form random pores in an inorganic
product would be proper under subclass 44, hereinabove.
This subclass is indented under subclass 629. Process wherein the article produced has a continuous parallel
orderly series of open or empty, usually hexagonal, interconnected
macrostructural cells which resemble a natural honeycomb.
for in situ processes of internally forming pores
or voids in an article or material by occluding or incorporating
void forming or void producing elements or ingredients randomly throughout the plastic forming
material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 632. Process wherein an article is formed by forcing a supply
of article forming material through a confining and shaping orifice.
This subclass is indented under subclass 632. Process wherein a dispersion of particles in a liquid vehicle
are placed in or on a shaping surface and the liquid vehicle removed
to produce a shaped article or preform.
This subclass is indented under subclass 636. Process wherein a liquid component or liquid vehicle for
a moldable material is removed or separated from the material through
a foamlike or absorbent shaping surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 603. Process wherein an article is formed by forcing a supply
of article forming material through a confining and shaping orifice.
Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus,
subclasses 376.1+ for an extrusion shaping machine for nonmetals;
see the search notes thereunder.
This subclass is indented under subclass 638. Process wherein a continuous, running or indefinite length
body is formed by an uninterrupted molding step.
(1)
Note. The final article produced need not be of indefinite
length, as for example, wherein the continuous, running or indefinite
length body is cut into predetermined length pieces.
(2)
Note. Extrusion is generally assumed to produce an indefinite
length product unless otherwise indicated.
This subclass is indented under subclass 603. Process wherein (a) an article is formed which contains
a relatively small slender discrete mass having length considerably
greater than its breadth (i.e., cross-sectional diameter), or (b)
producing a relatively small slender discrete mass having length
considerably greater than breadth or cross-sectional diameter are produced.
This subclass is indented under subclass 640. Process wherein the article formed contains uniformly distributed
relatively small, slender discrete particles having length considerably greater
than its breadth or cross-sectional diameter.
This subclass is indented under subclass 603. Process which includes forming or treating of an article
or preform having plural layers, forming an infused or permeated
article, or having mechanically engaged macrostructural portions.
This subclass is indented under subclass 642. Process wherein, subsequent to a shaping operation, the
shaped article is coated or impregnated by applying material thereto.
Coating Processes, for processes including the combination of (a) firing and
coating, or (b) nominal molding, significant coating, and firing;
regardless of the sequence of the respective steps. However, combinations
of (a) significant molding, firing, and coating, or (b) nominal
shaping and nominal coating are classified in Class 264; regardless
of the sequence of the respective steps.
This subclass is indented under subclass 642. Process wherein articles or preforms undergoing treatment
are, often hand-sized, usually rectangular or square, building blocks
of material containing clay (i.e., an earthy material that is composed
of hydrous aluminum silicates and other materials that are plastic
when moist and hard when fired) identified as a block, tile, or brick.
(1)
Note. Lacking an indication to the contrary, the mere use
of block, tile, or brick will be considered proper for this subclass,
whether or not disclosed to contain clay.
This subclass is indented under subclass 603. Process wherein material under pressure from a source removed
from a closed mold cavity is forced into a closed mold cavity and
assumes the shape of the interior of the closed cavity.
This subclass is indented under subclass 603. Process wherein a solid precursor material chemically reacts
with a gaseous agent, other than air, surrounding the precursor
to form a new ceramic composition.
This subclass is indented under subclass 646. Process wherein the reactive agent is identified as an oxygen
enriched gas or an oxidizing gas (i.e., other than air, per se.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 603. Process wherein, during any stage in the process, materials
are brought into contact with each other or with a suitable outside
agent, to produce a chemical reaction that generates more heat than
is required to initiate reaction.
This subclass is indented under subclass 603. Process wherein a coating of material is applied to a flat
or nearly flat shaping surface and subsequently removed therefrom.
This subclass is indented under subclass 603. Process wherein a liquid component or liquid vehicle for
a moldable material is removed or separated from the material through
a foamlike or absorbent shaping surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 603. Process wherein an elongated, essentially horizontal, furnace
heating means is used to sinter, or vitrify the article or preform.
This subclass is indented under subclass 603. Process wherein there are multiple steps or stages of heating.
(1)
Note. Included in this subclass are processes in which (a)
the temperature is varied over a given time span, (b) the preform
is subjected to two or more distinct heating steps, (c) the product
is cooled under controlled conditions, or (d) a portion of the product
is heated or cooled at a different rate than other portions.
This subclass is indented under subclass 653. Process which includes at least one nonsintering or nonvitrifying
heating step that precedes sintering or vitrifying of the article
outside of a mold.
This subclass is indented under subclass 654. Process wherein a binder is removed during a nonsintering
application of heat and wherein the binder is removed by burn-off,
volatilization, or melting.
This subclass is indented under subclass 654. Process wherein decomposition or combination of original
material to form a new compound or composition occurs.
This subclass is indented under subclass 658. Process wherein a product containing a binary compound of
nitrogen and metal or silicon (e.g., metal nitride, silicon nitride,
etc.) or tertiary compound of nitrogen, oxygen, and metal or silicon
(e.g., metal oxynitride, silicon oxynitride, etc.) is produced.
This subclass is indented under subclass 654. Process wherein a liquid solvent or carrier is removed from
the article or preform by heating in a step distinct from sintering,
fusing, or vitrifying.
This subclass is indented under subclass 654. Process which includes heating of nonshaped loose particular
material outside of a mold for purpose of drying, calcining, or
sintering.
This subclass is indented under subclass 662. Process wherein the subsequent heating is a step of hot
mechanical pressing or application of a hot gas pressure greater
than ambient pressure and temperature.
This subclass is indented under subclass 663. Process wherein a numeric value of either (a) temperature
for pressing, or (b) mold surface pressing pressure or applied
gas pressure greater than atmospheric pressure are stated in the
claim.
This subclass is indented under subclass 603. Process wherein a numeric pressure for molding is claimed
or wherein there is a step of controlling molding pressure.
for processes of controlling fluid pressure in direct
contact with molding material which include a step of sampling,
audibly or chemically testing or inspecting, or otherwise physically
or mechanically determining some variable condition in a shaped
article, molding material, the mold or shaping surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 667. Process wherein a binary compound of nitrogen and metal
or silicon (i.e., metal nitride, or silicon nitride) is produced.
This subclass is indented under subclass 603. Process wherein a, usually organic, material is utilized
to join particulate into a cohering self-sustaining preform capable
of maintaining shape without disintegration.
(1)
Note. During sintering, the shape of this temporary preform
(i.e., green body) is retained due to particle-to-particle surface
bonding, while organic binder is simultaneously removed by volatilization
or decomposition.
This subclass is indented under subclass 603. Process wherein an article or preform is placed or aligned
in a particular manner or is in a particular motion other than mere
conveying during sintering, vitrifying, or drying.
(1)
Note. To be placed herein a patent must disclose a particular
or specific manner of positioning, arranging or conveying. Nominal
recitation of these steps is not considered to be significant for
purposes of this subclass.
Particular or specific manner of positioning, arranging,
or conveying of plural articles
or plural preforms (e.g., stacking,
utilizing spacer, etc.) during sintering,
This subclass is indented under subclass 671. Process wherein an expressed purpose for positioning, arranging
or conveying includes regulating contraction or uneven contraction
of the article or preform during a heating or cooling operation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 671. Process wherein a particulate material is utilized to support,
or partially or fully surround a shaped article or preform during
sintering, vitrifying, or drying.
This subclass is indented under subclass 603. Process wherein the constitution of gaseous environment
utilized during a heating step is specified, excluding the inherent
composition of natural air.
(1)
Note. Merely, specifying that the heating step takes place
in air or under atmospheric conditions will not be
sufficient for placement under this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 674. Process wherein the gaseous composition contains water vapor,
excluding that water vapor which would be naturally present in air.
This subclass is indented under subclass 674. Process wherein a gaseous composition contains either nitrogen,
a noble gas, or a gaseous environment identified solely as being
inert; excluding nitrogen gas, noble gas, or inert gas which would
naturally be present in air.
This subclass is indented under subclass 603. Process wherein the circulation of heated gas, or expelled
gas from a heating chamber (e.g., sintering furnace, drying chamber,
etc.) or against an article is regulated.
for nonsintering or vitrifying processes of this
class with severing, removing material from preform mechanically,
or mechanically subdividing of workpiece.
This subclass is indented under subclass 603. Process wherein an article or preform undergoing shaping
or treatment is a material containing clay (i.e., an earthy material
that is composed of hydrous aluminum silicates and other materials
that are plastic when moist and hard when fired).
This subclass is indented under subclass 679. Process wherein articles or preforms undergoing treatment
are, often hand-sized, usually rectangular or square, building blocks
of material containing clay (i.e., an earthy material that is composed
of hydrous aluminum silicates and other materials that are plastic
when moist and hard when fired) identified as a block, tile, or brick.
(1)
Note. Lacking an indication to the contrary, the mere use
of block, tile, or brick will be considered proper for this subclass,
whether or not disclosed to contain clay.
This subclass is indented under subclass 603. Process wherein an article or preform undergoing shaping
or treatment is a material containing a metal oxide.
DIRECT APPLICATION OF FLUID PRESSURE DIFFERENTIAL TO SHAPE, RESHAPE
(I.E., DISTORT), OR SUSTAIN AN ARTICLE OR PREFORM AND HEAT-SETTING
(I.E., CRYSTALLIZING OF STRETCHED OR MOLECULARLY ORIENTED PORTION)
THEREOF:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Cross-reference art collection directed to a process under
the ... wherein (a) elongation or molecular alignment of at least
a portion of a workpiece occurs when positive or negative fluid
pressure differential is applied through a medium of liquid or gas
in direct contact with the workpiece, and the elongated or aligned portion
of the workpiece is heated to stabilize the shape thereof by crystallizing;
or (b) the shape of a previously elongated or molecularly oriented
workpiece is maintained by application of a positive or negative
fluid pressure differential while the workpiece is heated to stabilize
the shape thereof by crystallizing.
(1)
Note. In this subclass, crystallizing refers to the establishment
of a long range order within the polymeric mass wherein intermolecular
attractions (e.g., hydrogen bonding, Van der Vaal forces, etc.)
stabilize the polymeric chains into a regular lattice often typified
by a characteristic X-ray diffraction pattern.
(2)
Note. Heat-setting improves stabilization of blow-molded
or vacuum-formed articles against shrinkage or deformation when
in use in an elevated temperature environment.
Process under cross-reference art collection 900 wherein
(a) differential fluid pressure is used to cause stretching or molecular
orientation of at least a portion of a planar preform, and (b) at
least part of the stretched or oriented portion is subjected to
heat-setting.
Process under cross-reference art collection 900 wherein
subsequent to elongating or molecularly orienting using differential
fluid pressure, the stretched or molecularly oriented workpiece
is simultaneously heat-set and subjected to differential heat treatment
such that one section of the stretched or oriented portion of the
workpiece is subjected to a higher temperature than another section
of the stretched or oriented portion of the workpiece.
(1)
Note. If there is a heat differential between an unoriented
neck portion of an article and an oriented portion of the same article,
placement under this subclass is improper unless there is also a heat
differential within the oriented (i.e., non-neck) portion of the
article.
Process under cross-reference art collection 900 wherein
the shape of a previously stretched or molecularly oriented workpiece
is sustained by application of a positive or negative fluid pressure
differential while the workpiece undergoes heat-setting.
Process under cross-reference art collection 900 in which
there are at least two separate shaping or reshaping steps caused
by application of differential fluid pressure.
Process under cross-reference art collection 904 wherein
a stretched or molecularly oriented workpiece is heated, outside
of a mold, to contract at least one dimension thereof, thus forming
a shrunken article; and thereafter applying a differential fluid
pressure to enlarge the shrunken article.
DIRECT APPLICATION OF FLUID PRESSURE DIFFERENTIAL TO SHAPE, RESHAPE
(I.E., DISTORT), OR SUSTAIN AN ARTICLE OR PREFORM AND CRYSTALLIZING
OF NONSTRETCHED OR MOLECULARLY UNORIENTED PORTION THEREOF:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Cross-reference art collection directed to a process under
the ... wherein (a) a positive or negative fluid pressure differential
is applied through a medium of liquid or gas in direct contact with
a workpiece to form, reform, or sustain the workpiece, and (b) the
workpiece is treated to crystallize only a nonelongated or molecularly
unoriented portion thereof.
(1)
Note. In this subclass, crystallizing refers to the establishment
of a long range order within the polymeric mass wherein intermolecular
attractions (e.g., hydrogen bonding, Van der Vaal forces, etc.)
stabilize the polymeric chains into a regular lattice often typified
by a characteristic X-ray diffraction pattern.
(2)
Note. In this subclass, crystallizing is not limited to use
of heating or cooling. Thus, utilization of only pressure to crystallize
would be proper hereunder.
DIRECT APPLICATION OF FLUID PRESSURE DIFFERENTIAL TO STRETCH
AN ARTICLE OR PREFORM AND HEAT SHRINKING OF STRETCHED ARTICLE OR
PREFORM:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Cross-reference art collection directed to a process under
the ... wherein (a) elongation of a workpiece occurs when a positive
or negative fluid pressure differential is applied through a medium
of a liquid or gas in direct contact with the workpiece, and (b)
the resulting elongated workpiece is heated to contract at least
one dimension thereof, thus forming a shrunken article.
SINTERING TO PRODUCE TRANSLUCENT INORGANIC ARTICLE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Cross-reference art collection for process of producing
an inorganic article which permits passage of diffused light such
that objects are not clearly seen
therethrough.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes wherein reusable materials are recovered from
worn or nonvirgin consumer used articles and formed into useful
products by a molding operation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 910. Processeswherein the consumer
used article from which useful material is recovered is toroidal
shaped (e.g., doughnut shaped).
(1)
Note. A toroidal shape is comprised of a solid figure generated
when rotated about an axis lying in the same plane therewith, but
not intersecting or containing, an axis in its own plane.
(2)
Note. The majority of the art in this subclass relates to
processes for recovering useable material from worn or damaged vehicle
tires, but the subclass is not so limited.
This subclass is indented under subclass 910. Processes ,wherein the
consumer used article from which useful material is recovered is
a fiber or filament containing product or fiber or filament, per
se.
(1)
Note. A fiber or filament is generally considered a relatively
slender, flexible element of macroscopic size having a length substantially
greater than its width.
This subclass is indented under subclass 912. Processes wherein the fiber or filament containing product
or fiber or filament, per se, contains cellulose.
(1)
Note. Cellulose, which is used in the manufacture of paper,
is a carbohydrate polymer of glucose residue units found in the
walls and skeletons of vegetable cells.
This subclass is indented under subclass 910. Processes wherein the consumer
used article from which useful material is recovered contains inorganic
matter.
(1)
Note. Inorganic material which also contains organic material
as bonding agents, solvents, fillers, etc., is properly classified
herein.
(2)
Note. Inorganic material which also contains organic material
as bonding agents, solvents, fillers, etc., is properly classified
herein.
This subclass is indented under subclass 910. Processes wherein the consumer
used article from which useful material is recovered contains randomly
dispersed pores or voids.
This subclass is indented under subclass 910. Processes wherein the material
recovered from the consumer used article is reused in a blow molding
operation.
(1)
Note. Blow molding is considered an operation wherein a positive
or negative pressure is applied through the medium of a liquid or
gas in direct contact with a work-piece to form or maintain a desired configuration.
This subclass is indented under subclass 910. Processes wherein the consumer
used article from which useful material is recovered has an intentionally
constructed non-random void or opening therethrough or has a non-random inner
or concave surface or cavity.
This subclass is indented under subclass 917. Processes wherein the consumer
used article from which useful material is recovered is a self supporting
open ended hollow conduit (e.g., hose, etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 910. Processes wherein the material
recovered from the consumer used article is reused in an extrusion
operation.
(1)
Note. Extrusion molding is considered an operation wherein
an article is shaped or formed by forcing a supply of the article
forming material through a confining and shaping orifice.
This subclass is indented under subclass 910. Processes wherein the material
recovered from the consumer used article is reused in an injection
molding operation.
(1)
Note. Injection molding is considered an operation wherein
pressure is applied to a molding material so as to force said material
from a source removed from a closed mold cavity into said cavity wherein
the material assumes the shape of the interior of the closed cavity.
The definitions for FOR 100-FOR 102 below correspond to
the definitions for only the following abolished subclasses under
Class 264 from which these collections were formed: 36 - 38. See
the Foreign Art Collection schedule for specific correspondences. [Note: The titles and definitions for indented art
collections include all the details of the one(s) that are hierarchically
superior.]
REPAIRING OR RESTORING ARTICLES FOR REUSE (264/36):
Foreign art collections including processes in which
a worn, damaged, or used article is restored or repaired for reuse
in a similar capacity without altering or destroying the over-all
configuration of said article.
RECYCLING OF RECLAIMED OR PURIFIED PROCESS MATERIAL (264/37):
Foreign art collections including processes in which
excess, flash, trim, rejected products or used molding materials
resulting from an intermittent or continuous process or treating
materials therefor, are recycled or reused in the molding operation
with or without purification, reclamation or separation of the desired
constituents from contaminants.
Foreign art collections including processes in which
the bath contents or ingredient thereof into which article forming
material is extruded directly is reused by recycling thereof.
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