U.S. patent application number 14/079746 was filed with the patent office on 2014-03-13 for method and apparatus for providing metal clad facade.
This patent application is currently assigned to Whirlpool Corporation. The applicant listed for this patent is Whirlpool Corporation. Invention is credited to Michael A. BOWEN, Bruce A. KOPF, Todd J. TUNZI.
Application Number | 20140068917 14/079746 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40437095 |
Filed Date | 2014-03-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140068917 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
KOPF; Bruce A. ; et
al. |
March 13, 2014 |
METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING METAL CLAD FACADE
Abstract
An apparatus and method for a metal clad facade includes a thin
metal cladding having at least one edge. The facade or the object
with which it is associated has at least one edge around which the
metal cladding edge can be wrapped. The wrapped edge could
optionally be crimped. Optionally, exposed edges of the cladding
could be covered by raised bosses or ribs on the facade.
Optionally, a projection or extension of the cladding, oblique to
other parts of the cladding, could extend into an opening in or
near a surface of the facade or its underlying object. Wrapping of
at least one edge with the metal cladding provides the appearance
of a more substantial metal part than if the edge were not wrapped
and provides for a more securement and durable attachment between
the cladding and the underlying object.
Inventors: |
KOPF; Bruce A.; (Cedar
Rapids, IA) ; BOWEN; Michael A.; (Amana, IA) ;
TUNZI; Todd J.; (St. Joseph, MI) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Whirlpool Corporation |
Benton Harbor |
MI |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Whirlpool Corporation
Benton Harbor
MI
|
Family ID: |
40437095 |
Appl. No.: |
14/079746 |
Filed: |
November 14, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
11944113 |
Nov 21, 2007 |
|
|
|
14079746 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
29/445 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F25D 23/02 20130101;
A47B 2096/207 20130101; Y10T 29/49861 20150115; A47B 2096/208
20130101; B23P 11/00 20130101; Y10T 29/53709 20150115 |
Class at
Publication: |
29/445 |
International
Class: |
B23P 11/00 20060101
B23P011/00 |
Claims
1. A method of metal cladding the facade of an object comprising:
a. providing an underlying object having outer and inner surfaces
separated by a thickness; b. covering a portion of the outer
surface with metal cladding; and c. bending or forming a portion of
the cladding to wrap or extend across the thickness and then back
around the inner surface of the object.
2. The method of claim 1 further comprising crimping the wrapped
portion of cladding around the thickness of the object to further
resist movement of the cladding relative the object.
3. The method of claim 1 further comprising wrapping a second
portion of the cladding around another part of the object, the
second wrapped portion positioned to resist movement of the
cladding relative to the object in a different direction than the
first wrapped portion to further enhance fastening of the cladding
to the object.
4. The method of claim 3 further comprising crimping the second
portion of the cladding around a portion of the object.
5. The method of claim 1 further comprising extending a portion of
the cladding obliquely from another portion of the cladding such
that the oblique portion abuts the object in a manner which
restrains or resists movement of the cladding relative the object
in one or more directions.
6. The method of claim 5 wherein the oblique portion can have more
than one side that abuts different parts of the object to resist
movement of the cladding relative to the object in more than one
direction.
7. The method of claim 5 further comprising wrapping the oblique
portion around another portion of the object.
8. The method of claim 1 further comprising adhering at least one
portion of the cladding to the object.
9. The method of claim 8 wherein the at least one portion of the
cladding is adhered to the facade of the object.
10. The method of claim 1 further comprising forming a boss or rib
on the object which covers at least a portion of an exposed edge of
the metal cladding when the cladding is positioned on the facade of
the object.
11. The method of claim 10 wherein the boss or rib extends in a
different direction on the facade than the wrapped edge.
12. A method of metal cladding the facade of an object having an
edge positioned away from the facade comprising: a. bringing the
metal cladding into position relative the facade; b. wrapping a
portion of the cladding around the edge of the object so that the
portion of the cladding provides both mechanical resistance to
movement of the cladding relative to the object in one or more
directions and enhances the appearance of the facade by covering
the said edge with metal cladding.
13. The method of claim 12 further comprising wrapping a second
portion of the cladding around another portion of the object.
14. The method of claim 12 further comprising extending another
portion of the cladding obliquely to provide mechanical resistance
to movement of the cladding relative the object in one or more
directions.
15. The method of claim 14 wherein the object comprises an opening
and another portion of the cladding extends into the opening.
16. The method of claim 12 further comprising hiding at least a
portion of an edge of the cladding with a rib or boss on the
object.
17. The method of claim 12 wherein the object comprises a faceplate
with mounting structure to mount the faceplate to an appliance.
18. A method of cladding in metal a facade piece having a facade,
opposite sides, and an internal opening comprising: a. covering the
facade of the facade piece with metal cladding but leaving a
portion of the facade exposed; b. bending portions of a metal
cladding around the opposite sides of the facade piece; c. crimping
the bent portions to the facade piece; d. inserting an ear of the
metal cladding into the internal opening of the facade piece; and
e. covering an edge of the metal cladding with a raised portion or
boss on the facade piece.
19. The method of claim 18 wherein the edge extends in a different
direction than the opposite sides.
20. The method of claim 18 wherein the facade piece comprises a
faceplate with mounting structure to mount to an appliance.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a divisional application of U.S. Ser.
No. 11/944,113 filed Nov. 21, 2007, herein incorporated by
reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] A. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to metal clad or covered
facades, and in particular, to a method and apparatus of mounting a
metal cladding or covering to an underlying facade or face of a
structure associated with a device or object.
[0004] B. Problems in the Art
[0005] The covering of one material over the facade or face of an
underlying material is well-known in a variety of contexts and
applications. It can be for functional reasons. For example, a
textured, high co-efficient of friction layer can be placed over a
smooth, low-coefficient of friction underlying material of an
object to improve the coefficient of friction of the exterior of
the object. The covering does not need to envelope all sides of the
object, but just a surface, face, or facade of the object.
[0006] Alternatively, a cover or layer can be for purely cosmetic
or ornamental purposes. The cover or over-layer can give a
different appearance to the underlying material. An example is to
clad the face or facade of a non-metal object with a thin metal
skin or sheet to give the appearance that the underlying material
is metal. In such instances the use of the term "facade" is
particularly applicable, as in one conventional meaning of the word
the function of the cladding or covering is to cover the front or
facing side (the "facade") of the underlying part or object; but it
also meets the other conventional meaning of the term by
functioning to present a false, superficial, or artificial
appearance or effect. As used here, the term "clad" or "cladding"
means to cover one material with a thin piece of another
material.
[0007] A specific example of cladding with metal exists with
respect to household appliances. An underlying surface or part of
the appliance can be clad, faced, or covered with a specific thin
layer or sheet of metal. It can be for functional or cosmetic
purposes, or both. Stainless steel cladding, as one example, may be
desirable because it is deemed easier to clean or more sanitary in
a kitchen environment than a painted or non-stainless steel
surface. It can provide protection to the underlying surface or
object. But stainless steel cladding also might be desired by a
consumer because it gives the appearance of a professional-grade
appliance, or might match other stainless steel appliances in that
kitchen. There can be other purposes or functions associated with
using a thin metal cladding over the facade of an underlying
material or object.
[0008] Analogous reasons exist for applying metal cladding to other
devices or objects. A few non-limiting examples of other devices or
objects include furniture, lighting fixtures, computers, automobile
dashboards, audio/video equipment, display cases, picture frames,
hinges, and hardware.
[0009] One example of a conventional metal clad facade begins with
drawing metal into a thin sheet. Perimeter edges of the sheet are
held and a die or plug is pushed into the center of the sheet to
create a desired cross-sectional profile. However, the final shape
of the drawn metal is either substantially flat or at least has
flat perimeter edges. Adhesive is used to affix the back of the
drawn metal cladding in place to the face or facade of an object.
This conventional method of creating metal clad facades presents at
least several issues, some of which are antagonistic to one
another.
[0010] First, it relies upon adhesive as the fastening method. If
improperly applied, the adhesive may result in premature loosening
of the cladding. Also, the adhesive may degrade over time or based
on environmental conditions (e.g. heat or moisture) and result in
loosening of the cladding.
[0011] Secondly, drawing metal into a sheet material with at least
generally flat perimeter edges, and then adhering it to a surface,
many times results in perimeter edges of the cladding being exposed
to view. If the edges are exposed, it will be readily apparent that
the object is simply faced or covered with a thin metal sheet. It
will look like a laminate or thin layer cover instead of give an
impression that the underlying object is metal. To combat this
issue, sometimes a complimentary depression or recess is formed in
the underlying material of the object into which the flat metal
sheet or facade fits. This can help deter view of the edges of the
cladding. However, it is difficult to manufacture both the recess
and the cladding to fit precisely, especially in mass produced
devices. Also, forming the recess involves more complexity and cost
in the manufacture of the underlying material. Also, it still
relies on adhesive to attach the cladding to the underlying
facade.
[0012] Cost can many times be a significant factor in decisions
whether to use a metal cladding. There is little incentive to
design a metal cladding and underlying surface to be complex or
expensive. But also, it usually is desirable to have a robust and
long-lasting attachment of the cladding to the object. Therefore,
there are competing interests when electing whether or not to use a
metal cladding for the facade of an object. Those interests can be
in conflict. For example, economy of materials, manufacture, and
assembly can be one set of interests. But these interests can
conflict with obtaining a better metal facade.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] It is therefore a principle object, aspect, feature, or
advantage of the present invention to provide an apparatus and
method for a metal clad facade of an object which improves over or
solves the problems and deficiencies in the art.
[0014] Further objects, features, aspects, and/or advantages of the
invention relate to an apparatus and method for a metal clad facade
which:
[0015] a. provides for durable and long-lasting attachment of the
metal cladding to its underlying object;
[0016] b. provides an enhanced facade appearance;
[0017] c. is non-complex and relatively economical; and
[0018] e. can be applied to a variety of objects.
[0019] In one aspect of the invention, a method of creating a metal
clad facade for an object comprises providing an underlying object
having outer and inner surfaces separated by a thickness, covering
a portion of the outer surface with metal cladding, and bending or
forming a portion of the cladding to wrap or extend across the
thickness and then back around the inner surface of the object.
Wrapping the cladding provides mechanical resistance to movement of
the cladding relative to the object in one or more directions,
mechanically secures that portion of the cladding to the underlying
object, and enhances the facade by wrapping an edge of the facade
with the cladding. An exposed edge of the cladding is therefore
hidden.
[0020] The method optionally comprises crimping the wrapped portion
of cladding around the thickness of the object to further resist
movement of the cladding relative the object. The mechanical
properties of the metal essentially clamp the wrapped portion to
the object to help secure the cladding to the object.
[0021] The method optionally comprises wrapping a second portion of
the cladding around another part of the object. The second wrapped
portion can be positioned to resist movement of the cladding
relative to the object in a different direction than the first
wrapped portion to further enhance fastening of the cladding to the
object. It can assist in securing that second portion of the
cladding to the underlying object. The wrapped second portion can
optionally be crimped around a thickness of the object.
[0022] The method further optionally comprises extending a portion
or ear of the cladding obliquely from another portion of the
cladding such that the oblique portion abuts the object in a manner
which restrains or resists movement of the cladding relative the
object in one or more directions. The oblique portion can have more
than one side or edges that abuts different parts of the object to
resist movement of the cladding relative to the object in more than
one direction. The oblique portion can optionally be wrapped and/or
crimped around a thickness of the object.
[0023] The method further comprises forming a boss or rib in the
object which covers at least a portion of an exposed edge of the
metal cladding. This enhances the facade appearance by blocking
view of an otherwise exposed edge of the cladding. It also can
serve to protect the exposed edge from being lifted or damaged. The
boss or rib can be in a different direction than the direction of
the wrapped edge.
[0024] A further optional aspect of the method comprises using
adhesive between portions of the cladding and the object.
[0025] An apparatus according to one aspect of the present
invention comprises an underlying object having a surface, face, or
facade with at least one perimeter or internal edge. A metal
cladding comprises at least one portion adapted to be bent or
wrapped around the edge of the object. Optionally, the object is an
appliance or part thereof.
[0026] The metal cladding optionally comprises one or more
additional portions adapted to be wrapped around other edges of the
object. In one example, the edges of the object are spaced apart
from one another and the portions of the cladding are wrapped in
opposite directions. One example is wrapping opposite sides of the
facade.
[0027] The apparatus optionally comprises one or more portions of
the cladding extending at an oblique angle from another portion of
the cladding, each of the one or more portions having edges which
abut edges of the object to restrain relative movement between the
cladding and the object. One or more oblique portions may also be
wrapped around an edge of the facade.
[0028] The apparatus optionally comprises a boss or rib on the
object aligned to cover an exposed edge of the cladding. The boss
or rib can optionally be in a different direction than the wrapped
edge.
[0029] These and other objects, features, aspects, or advantages of
the present invention will become more apparent with reference to
the accompanying specification and claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0030] FIG. 1 is a perspective diagrammatic illustration of a
refrigerator appliance that includes an in-door water and ice
dispenser framed by a plastic face plate with metal clad facade
according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
[0031] FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of the metal clad ice/water
dispenser face plate of FIG. 1 taken along the dashed line circle 2
of FIG. 1.
[0032] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the metal cladding and the
plastic ice/water dispenser face plate which make up the metal clad
face plate of FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0033] FIG. 4A is a front elevation view of just the metal cladding
of FIG. 3.
[0034] FIG. 4B is a top end view taken along line 4B-4B of FIG. 4A,
in enlarged scale.
[0035] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a first version of just the
plastic ice/water dispenser face plate of FIG. 3.
[0036] FIG. 6A is a back elevation view of FIG. 5.
[0037] FIG. 6B is a sectional view taken along line 6B-6B of FIG.
6A.
[0038] FIG. 6C is an enlarged view taken along circle 6C of FIG.
6B.
[0039] FIG. 6D is a section view taken along line 6D-6D of FIG.
6A.
[0040] FIG. 6E is an enlarged view of the circled area 6E of FIG.
6D.
[0041] FIG. 6F is a section view taken along line 6F-6F of FIG.
6A.
[0042] FIG. 7A is a back elevation view of a slightly different
alternative configuration 10B for face plate 10 of FIG. 5.
[0043] FIG. 7B is a side elevation view of FIG. 7A.
[0044] FIG. 7C is an enlarged section view taken along line 7C-7C
of FIG. 7A.
[0045] FIG. 7D is an enlarged view of the circled area 7D of FIG.
7C.
[0046] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an alternative version 10C
of a plastic ice/water dispenser face.
[0047] FIG. 9A is similar to FIG. 7A but is a back elevation of the
alternative plastic ice/water dispenser face plate 10C of FIG.
8.
[0048] FIG. 9B is a sectional view taken along line 9B-9B of FIG.
9A.
[0049] FIG. 9C is a sectional view taken along line 9C-9C of FIG.
9A.
[0050] FIG. 9D is a right side elevation of FIG. 9A.
[0051] FIG. 10A is a front elevation assembled view of both the
metal cladding and ice/water dispenser face plate of FIG. 3.
[0052] FIG. 10B is a sectional view taken along line 10B-10B of
FIG. 10A.
[0053] FIG. 10C is a sectional view taken along line 10C-10C of
FIG. 10A.
[0054] FIG. 10D is an enlarged detail view taken along circle 10D
of FIG. 10B.
[0055] FIG. 10E is an enlarged detail view taken along circle 10E
of FIG. 10C.
[0056] FIG. 10F is an enlarged detail view taken along circle 10F
of FIG. 10D.
[0057] FIG. 10G is an enlarged detail view taken along circle 10G
of FIG. 10E.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0058] A. Overview
[0059] For a better understanding of the invention, several
examples of forms the invention can take will now be described in
detail. Frequent reference will be made to the accompanying
Figures. Reference numerals will be used to indicate certain parts
or locations in the Figures. The same reference numerals will be
used to indicate the same or similar parts or locations throughout
the Figures unless otherwise indicated.
[0060] The exemplary embodiments will be described in the context
of a household appliance; in particular, a refrigerator having a
face plate which can be snapped or attached to the exterior side of
a refrigerator door around an in-door ice/water dispenser. These
specific exemplary embodiments are not intended to be, nor should
they be understood to be, inclusive or exclusive of all possible
applications or objects. It is to be understood that the invention
is applicable to a wide variety of objects and applications. This
includes objects or applications related to other parts of
refrigerators, to other household appliances, and to non-appliance
objects. A few examples have been previously mentioned. The
invention is limited solely by the appended claims and not by the
examples given herein.
[0061] B. Metal Clad Face Plate Assembly 30 on Refrigerator Door
16
[0062] An ice/water dispenser face plate assembly 30, according to
an exemplary embodiment of the invention, is shown in exploded form
in FIG. 3 and in assembled form in FIGS. 10A-G. Face plate assembly
30 frames the in-door ice/water dispenser 12 and control unit
display 14 in door 16 of a refrigerator 18 (see FIGS. 1 and 2). In
this example, outer surface of door 16 is stainless steel.
[0063] Face plate assembly 30 has two main components. The first is
a thin stainless steel metal cladding 20 (shown alone, in a
pre-installed form, in FIGS. 4A and B). The second is a plastic
face plate 10 which snaps or attaches to the stainless steel door
16 of refrigerator 18 (FIGS. 1 and 2).
[0064] Stainless steel cladding 20 covers a substantial portion of
the exposed surfaces or facade of plastic face plate 10 and
provides the appearance of being substantially integrated or
integral with face plate 10. In this example, this creates the
appearance that face plate 10 is integral with or even a part of
the stainless steel door 16 of refrigerator 18, even though face
plate 10 itself is of a different material and color than stainless
steel.
[0065] One of the features of metal clad face plate assembly 30 is
its ornamental or cosmetic appearance. It gives the appearance of a
substantially stainless steel piece. As indicated in FIG. 2, and as
will be explained in more detail later, the psychological
impression that piece 30 is stainless steel is enhanced by metal
cladding 20 wrapping around several of the edges of the underlying
plastic face plate 10, masking from view certain edges of metal
cladding 20 as well as the sides or edges of the underlying plastic
face plate 10. Even though some portions of the plastic underlying
face plate 10 are exposed to view and visible (see, e.g., top plate
102 and bottom plate 106 in FIG. 2), the vertical outside edges
between top and bottom plates 102 and 106 are wrapped by metal
cladding 20 so no portions of plastic face plate 10 or edges of
cladding 20 are exposed along those sides. Additionally, interior
vertical edges of plastic face plate 10 are also covered, as will
be explained further below. Thus, metal clad face plate assembly 30
has a very finished stainless steel look. It appears much more
substantially stainless steel than just a thin stainless steel
sheet glued on a surface.
[0066] As can be appreciated, even though some plastic portions are
visible when installed, if desired at least those visible or
exposed portions of plastic face plate 10 can be made of a color
and surface that is complementary to stainless steel. For example,
face plate 10 can be made of a rigid black plastic with neatly
formed smooth visible non-clad surfaces to provide a very finished
look for the assembly 30, as well as refrigerator 16. Other colors,
surface treatments, surface textures, and configurations are
possible, according to need or desire.
[0067] Another feature of assembly 30 is that metal cladding 20 is
more robustly and durably mounted to plastic facade than by just
adhesive. Mechanical properties of metal cladding 20 are used to
connect and mechanically resist separation of metal cladding 20
relative to plastic face plate 10. Therefore, metal clad face plate
assembly 30 produces several benefits that are not achieved by flat
metal cladding that is simply adhered to a surface of an underlying
piece. Assembly 30 does so by a combination of what can be
antagonistic factors to produce these benefits.
[0068] C. Metal Cladding 20
[0069] Metal cladding 20, here 0.015 inch thick type 304 stainless
steel with a brushed finish (by wet polish) to match type 301
stainless steel, is initially formed into the shape of FIGS. 4A and
B. Two openings 220 and 230 are formed between upper and lower
edges 202 and 206 (see FIG. 4A). Opposite sides 204 and 208 are
bent at essentially right angles to the general plane of cladding
20 with slightly curved transition areas before each right angle
edge 204 and 208 (see FIG. 4B). The shape of cladding 20 is
manufactured by known techniques to be complementary to the facade
of face plate 10.
[0070] Cladding 20 can be made of a wide variety of metal
materials. Other examples are 0.022 thick type 0437 aluminum and
0.023/0.025.+-.0.0015 aluminum from Alcoa. The metal can be
finished. For example a matte finish could be applied to either
aluminum or stainless steel. Another example is pre-painted
aluminum with removable film. Colors for the finish or paint can
also vary according to desire. For example the color could be oiled
bronze for aluminum to match a bronze colored appliance door or to
complement a door of different material or color (e.g. a different
metal, a painted door, or a wood door). A number of variations are,
of course, possible.
[0071] Two forwardly extending flanges or ears 250 are formed at
opposite sides of bottom opening 230 in cladding 20 (see FIGS. 4A
and 4B). Ears 250 can simply be bent obliquely to the general plane
of cladding 20 after making appropriate cuts in the original
stainless steel sheet from which cladding 20 originates. Formation
of the geometry of cladding 20 can be produced by conventional
metal manufacturing methods. The metal is malleable, allowing it to
be curved or bent but, once bent, the metal will stay in that
orientation.
[0072] It is pointed out that, in this embodiment, there are no
inwardly extending ears from any part of upper opening 220 in metal
cladding 20. However, such would be possible, if desired. In this
case, opening 220 frames a display which would have a clear lens or
screen cover, and would provide a finished look.
[0073] Metal cladding 20 therefore has bent opposite vertical edges
204 and 208, and bent interior ears 250, all of which are bent in
the same direction, namely outward from the back or inner side of
cladding 20. They also are elongated in the long or vertical
direction of cladding 20. The remaining edges of cladding 20 are in
the same general plane as the majority of the surfaces of cladding
20.
[0074] D. Plastic Face Plate 10
[0075] FIGS. 5 and 6A-F show just plastic face plate 10 of FIG. 3
in detail. As can be seen, the vertical length, horizontal width,
and shape of the front face or facade of plastic face plate 10 is
generally complementary to cladding 20 of FIGS. 4A and B.
[0076] Face plate 10 also has what will be called a thickness
between front and back (see FIGS. 5 and 6B-E). As shown in the
Figures, the facade of face plate 10 has generally smooth surfaces.
The back or refrigerator-facing side has a variety of hollows
defined by a plurality of walls extending rearward to distal edges.
FIGS. 6D-F illustrate by cross section that plastic facade has
opposite sides 104 and 108 that are essentially perpendicular to
the front plane of face plate 10. Those sides have thickness (the
distance between front and back) of several times the thickness of
metal cladding 20 (see FIGS. 10D-F).
[0077] Plastic face plate 10, here made of PVC (POLYONE GEON HTX
H6215), can be produced by conventional means (e.g. molded). It has
two openings 120 and 130 between upper and lower surfaces 102 and
106 which generally correspond to openings 220 and 230 in cladding
20. Opposite sides or side walls 104 and 108 are shaped in
complementary fashion to the opposite sides forming bent edges 204
and 208 of metal cladding 20. These side walls of plastic face
plate 10 provide edges around which corresponding edges of metal
cladding 20 can be bent and wrapped.
[0078] Face plate 10 has some additional features. Top and bottom
surfaces 102 and 106 each have a forward extending rib or lip 103
and 107 respectively (see FIGS. 3 and 6B). Ribs 103 and 107 extend
in front of lateral facade surfaces 110 and 114, respectively.
Surfaces 110 and 114 are adapted to receive the back sides of
corresponding lateral portions 210 and 214 of cladding 20 (see FIG.
3). Similarly, there are forwardly extending ribs 123 and 127 on
top and bottom sides of opening 120 and forwardly extending ribs
133 and 137 on top and bottom sides of opening 130 of facade (see
also FIG. 6B). Note that each of these ribs extends laterally or
horizontally across at least a portion of plastic face plate 10 (as
compared to the vertical bent edges of cladding 20 described
above). With regard to height of ribs or lips 103, 123, 127, 133,
137, and 106, they project outwardly at least 0.025 inch and are at
or approximately 0.025 inch in thickness to cover a cladding
thickness of at or under 0.025 inches. They can be adjusted in
dimension as desired or as needed. They can be adjusted in
dimension for other sized cladding.
[0079] As indicated in FIG. 5, face plate 10 also includes recesses
along portions 110, 112, and 114. These are designed to receive and
position adhesive; in particular, a strip of adhesive tape that
could be used to provide supplemental fastening of metal cladding
20 to the facade of face plate 10. Such adhesive is optional.
[0080] The facade of face plate 10 (or the entire face plate 10)
can be intentionally colored to match or complement a selected
metal cladding. For example, rigid PVC could be colored white,
black, or bisque; three traditional colors for kitchen appliances.
Likewise, metal cladding 20 could be painted or finished to other
than its normal metal look (e.g. painted white, black or bisque).
The designer can color all or part of the facade of face plate 10
to either match or complement cladding 20 and/or door 16.
[0081] Rigid PVC has been mentioned as the material of face plate
10. Others plastics and other materials, even metal, are
possible.
[0082] E. Assembly of Metal Cladding 20 to Plastic Face Plate
10
[0083] FIGS. 10A-F illustrate how cladding 20 is placed in
assembled position on face plate 10 to form metal clad face plate
assembly 30.
[0084] By referring also to the exploded view of FIG. 3, cladding
20 in the form of FIGS. 4A and B is moved into general
correspondence with the front or facade of face plate 10. Cladding
20 and face plate 10 are then converged so that they come into
abutment with the following relationships:
[0085] (a) Horizontal top and bottom edges 202 and 206 of metal
cladding 20 are covered by raised ribs 102 and 206 respectively of
face plate 20 all across the assembly 30.
[0086] (b) Horizontal edges 222, 226, 232, and 236 of cladding 20
are covered by raised ribs 122, 126, 132, and 136 of plastic face
plate 10 respectively.
[0087] (c) Outer bent vertical side edges 204 and 208 of cladding
20 cover and extend past the rear plane of sides 104 and 108 of
face plate 10.
[0088] (d) Inner bent ears 250 (left and right) of cladding 20
cover and extend past the rear plane of inner walls 134 and 138 of
opening 130 in the bottom half of face plate 30.
[0089] As can be appreciated, these relationships between parts of
cladding 20 and face plate 10 guide cladding 20 into position on
face plate 10. For example, face plate 10 has to fit between
opposite vertical edges 204 and 206 of cladding 20. Ears 250 of
cladding 20 have to fit into opening 130 of face plate 10.
Transverse sections 210, 212, and 214 of cladding 20 nest between
the raised rib pairs 103/123, 127/133, and 137/107, respectively of
face plate 10. Thus, there is basically both top-to-bottom and
side-to-side preliminary positioning of metal cladding 20 to face
plate 10.
[0090] Note also that edges 204 and 208 cover almost all the
vertical sides 104 and 108 of face plate 10, and ears 250 cover
almost all the thickness of the vertical sides of opening 130 in
face plate 10. Raised rib pairs 103/123, 127/133, and 137/107 of
face plate 10 substantially cover and protect the exposed
horizontal edges of cladding 20.
[0091] In this example, prior to positioning cladding 20 on face
plate 10, double-sided adhesive strips or tape (not shown) are/is
placed in the pre-formed rectangular depressions or recesses across
transverse sections 110, 112, and 114 of face plate 10. Once
cladding 20 is brought into abutment with face plate 10, those
adhesive strips will help hold cladding 20 in position.
[0092] In this example, as a part of final assembly, the very
distal portion of each edge 204 and 208 of metal cladding 20 is
bent essentially 90 degrees in two places (see reference numerals
240 and 242 in FIG. 3 and FIG. 10D), essentially inwardly and then
back towards the main portion of cladding 20. These bends 240/242
wrap metal cladding 20 around the rearward-most edges of vertical
sides 104 and 108 of plastic face plate 10 (see FIGS. 10D and F),
and further hide from view underlying plastic surfaces. Then, using
conventional methods, the bent portion 242 of each of vertical
edges 204 and 208 is crimped towards its corresponding edge 204 or
208, with the plastic 104 or 108 there between. The crimping force
is selected and controlled to slightly converge those parts of
cladding 20 towards one another without materially damaging the
plastic at 104 or 108. The material properties of metal cladding 20
are used to mechanically clamp the vertical edges 204 and 208 of
metal cladding 20 to opposite sides of plastic face plate 10. The
mechanical configuration and mechanical forces securely hold those
opposite vertical side portions of the metal cladding 20 down
against plastic face plate 10 and robustly and durably resist
lifting of those portions from face plate 10. It also provides a
highly finished look.
[0093] Likewise, the very distal portion of each ear 250 has
similar bends 260 and 262 (see FIG. 10D). Bent portion 262 of ears
250 can also be crimped towards its corresponding ear without
materially damaging the intervening plastic at reference numerals
134 and 138. This additional wrap-around crimping can be
accomplished for ears 250 on opposite sides of opening 130 in face
plate 10 (see FIG. 10D--right hand side). This resists lifting of
those crimped portions of cladding 20 from face plate 10.
[0094] As indicated in the Figures, each bent section 240/242 and
260/262 is each only a fraction of an inch in total width to wrap
the edge of the plastic face plate 10 (e.g., approximately 1/10th
of an inch). Conventional bending and crimping machines or tools
can be configured to create these bends and the crimping.
[0095] Thus, wrapping and crimping of cladding 20 is accomplished
both on opposite outer vertical sides of face plate 10, as well as
on opposite inner vertical sides of opening 130 in face plate.
Cumulatively this further enhances the durable fastening of
cladding 20 to face plate 10. Wrapping (without crimping) deters
movement of cladding 20 side to side. Crimping of cladding edges
204 and 208 further deters movement of cladding 20 relative to face
plate 10 (in essentially all directions). Wrapping and crimping of
ears 250 does so also. But furthermore, as indicated in the
Figures, the vertical length of ears 250 closely matches the height
of opening of 130 in face plate 10. The top and bottom edges of
ears 250 can also function as mechanical stops restraining cladding
20 from any substantial longitudinal movement relative face plate
10, regardless of the wrapping and crimping.
[0096] As indicated in the Figures (see for example FIG. 10G at
reference numeral 211 and FIG. 10F at reference numeral 241), some
clearance is intentionally designed into assembly 30 between edges
of cladding 20 and the raised ribs or between the wrapped portions
of cladding and the back edges of face plate 10. Such clearance is
designed to compensate for manufacturing tolerances, as well as
some expansion or contraction of the parts. In the case of this
example, clearance 241 in FIG. 10F allows for a small space between
bent portion 240 of cladding 20 and the adjacent end edge surface
of face plate side wall 108. This can also facilitate the crimping
action or forces at those positions. Also, clearance 211 of FIG.
10G (e.g. on the order of 0.015 inch typical), allows some range of
tolerance between exposed edges of cladding 20 and the raised ribs
(e.g. rib 127). This helps insure that cladding 20 will fit well
and the exposed cladding edges will be covered and protected by the
raised ribs. Closer tolerances or even no tolerance can be
designed, if desired. As shown in the assembled views of metal clad
face plate assembly 30 in FIGS. 10A-10G, raised ribs cover exposed
horizontal edges 202, 222, 226, 232, 236, and 206 (from top to
bottom) of metal cladding 20 when installed on plastic facade. They
substantially cover those edges of metal cladding 20 so that these
edges are not exposed when installed on face plate 10. Therefore,
one viewing assembly 30 would not readily identify stainless steel
cladding 20 as being simply a thin metal cover over another part
(it promotes an appearance that the part may be metal and not just
metal clad). Additionally, those raised ribs help protect the edges
of the thin metal cladding from exposure to such things as fingers,
finger nails, utensils, silverware, edges of glasses and cups, and
the like, which could catch on and damage or pull away those edges
of cladding 20 from face plate 10.
[0097] As can be therefore be appreciated, assembly 30 presents a
highly finished metal appearance to the combination even though (a)
it is merely a metal clad facade and (b) it intentionally leaves
some portions of the non-metal underlying face plate exposed to
view and visible when installed. These are somewhat conflicting
concepts. A metal look is desired but some underlying plastic is
intentionally exposed.
[0098] But furthermore, the metal cladding is very securely mounted
on the face plate by (a) more than just adhesive and (b) with
mechanical methods. These also can be somewhat conflicting. A thin
metal cladding is applied to the facade of the underlying part, but
complexity and cost is added for the mechanical fastening to
achieve a more robust securement of the cladding and some of its
edges.
[0099] However, assembly 30 is specifically designed to be
manufactured and assembled in a relatively simplified and efficient
manner. The bending and crimping actions can be completed in an
efficient manner with conventional equipment. Those skilled in the
art can calibrate the equipment to make the bends and crimp,
particularly on plastic face plate 10, with forces that do not
damage or break the pieces of plastic face plate 10 involved around
the bending and crimping. Furthermore, bending and crimping is only
along vertical portions of cladding 20. Thus, all of those steps
can be in the same direction. This avoids complexity related to
performing bending and crimping actions in more than one direction.
It also avoids complexity and well-known difficulties involved in
trying to bend and/or crimp metal around corners. Forming metal,
even thin metal, around corners is not only difficult to do; it is
difficult to make the final product appear highly finished. Thus,
the assembly method of this example (a) wraps and crimps only
vertical edges of cladding 20 on vertical edges of face plate 10
and (b) protects and hides only horizontal edges of cladding 20
with raised horizontal ribs on face plate 10. This mixture of
different techniques produces advantageous results. The added
complexity of manufacture and assembly is not significantly more
than drawing a metal cladding and gluing it to a surface. But the
attachment of the cladding is more robust and secure. The
appearance of the final assembly is more substantially a metal
look, even though it intentionally leaves exposed some of the
underlying non-metal material.
[0100] During manufacturing and assembly, a protective removable
plastic film or release sheet could be placed over the outer-facing
metal cladding 20 to protect it. This could be left in place during
shipping to a retail or end user's site and then easily
removed.
[0101] Note also in FIG. 10F that the metal clad 20 may not
protrude beyond the facade of face plate 10 after final forming
(see example indicated at FIG. 10F). This is another way to cover
exposed edges of the metal cladding for a more finished look and to
protect those metal edges. The metal cladding 20 would also not
extend behind the rear plane of plastic face plate 10 so it can
substantially mount flush against refrigerator door 16.
[0102] F. Options and Alternatives
[0103] It is to be appreciated that the invention can take many
forms and embodiments. Variations obvious to those skilled in the
art will be included within the invention. A few examples, by
illustration, are set forth below.
[0104] The fastening of metal cladding 20 to face plate 10 can
utilize the combination of methods described in the exemplary
embodiment above or can use a subset of those methods. In a very
simple form, one wrapped edge of metal cladding 20 could be used
relative to a corresponding projection or edge of an underlying
object (e.g. face plate). The wrapping would hold cladding 20
against movement at least in one direction. This may be sufficient
for fastening. Crimping may or may not be used. On the other hand,
wrapping and/or crimping of one part of the cladding could be
combined with covering an exposed edge of the cladding with a
raised rib or ribs. Wrapping could deter movement of cladding 20 at
least in one direction relative to facade. The raised lip(s) could
cover and could resist movement of the cladding 20 in a second
direction relative facade. Still further, as indicated by the
example of ears 250 in the exemplary embodiments, one or more of
wrapping, crimping, or raised ribs relative to exposed edges could
be combined with extending one or more ears or portions of cladding
20 into an opening or against one or more walls or surfaces of an
underlying object in the fashion to restraint movement of the
cladding in at least one direction relative to the underlying
object. Ear(s) 250 prevent longitudinal up or down movement of
cladding 20 because they are restrained by the top and bottom sides
133 and 137 of the bottom opening 130 of face plate 10. In the
example of FIG. 3, ear 250 is substantially perpendicular to the
front face of cladding 20, but it could be almost any oblique
angle. It can therefore be seen that different combinations of
these methods could be mixed or matched for a given
application.
[0105] Also, wrapping and/or crimping plural portions of cladding
20 to spaced apart locations on the underlying object is another
option. For example, wrapping and crimping opposite sides of an
underlying object could provide additional fastening force compared
to wrapping and crimping one side or edge.
[0106] Still further, wrapping and crimping more than two pieces of
cladding 20 to a single underlying object is possible.
[0107] Of course metal cladding 20 can be configured in a variety
of forms for a variety of facades. The facade or the cladding may
or may not include openings. The wrapped edge or edges could be
along a side, an interior edge, or other structure associated with
the underlying facade or object.
[0108] Materials used for the components of assembly 30 can
vary.
[0109] The exemplary embodiments describe a metal cladding over a
plastic face plate to frame an ice/water dispenser on the door of a
refrigerator. The aspects of the invention illustrated by exemplary
embodiments can be applied in analogous ways for facades other than
a frame around an ice/water dispenser on a refrigerator. The
cladding could be formed to follow a configuration of an underlying
facade and be applied to at least one or more of the following:
[0110] a. wrap around an edge of the facade;
[0111] b. wrap and crimp around one portion or edge of a
facade;
[0112] c. substantially cover an exposed edge of cladding with a
boss, lip, or rib in the facade; and
[0113] d. extend an obliquely positioned ear or flange of the
cladding relative to one or more surfaces or walls in the facade;
to cover part(s) of the facade from direct view and/or serve as a
mechanical stop(s) against movement of the cladding relative to the
facade.
[0114] For example, the metal clad facade according to the
invention could be applied to a plastic or other material framing a
television or computer display to give it a metal look. It could be
used over a plastic or cheaper material in an automobile dashboard
or console; or even exterior trim. Examples are almost limitless.
It would take advantage of geometry of the underlying device or
object to assist in securement of the cladding.
[0115] It is to be further understood, however, that there could be
a variety of different design choices for assembly 30 as applied to
a face plate around an in-door ice/water dispenser of a
refrigerator.
[0116] For example, FIGS. 7A-D illustrate a slightly different face
plate 10B than that of FIGS. 5 and 6A-E. It is almost identical to
face plate 10 of FIGS. 5 and 6A-E with the following principle
difference. The side edges 104B and 108B (FIG. 7C) are
substantially shorter than edges 104 and 108 of face plate 10
(compare FIG. 7C with FIG. 6D). Edges 104B and 108B are still
configured to allow wrapping by bending and crimping for metal
cladding 20 to plastic face plate 10B. This is to illustrate that
different geometries are possible for bending and crimping edges of
metal cladding around edges of an underlying object. Also, it
illustrates that an inventory of different face plates to fit
different refrigerators could utilize the same metal cladding 20 in
certain instances.
[0117] FIG. 8 and FIGS. 9A-D show another example of a variation of
assembly 30. In this case, plastic face plate 10C is similar to
face plates 10 and 10B of FIGS. 6A-E and 7A-D with the following
principle differences. Face plate 10C has no outwardly forwardly
extending ribs to protect horizontal edges of cladding 20. It also
does not include recesses 110, 112, and 114 for adhesive or
adhesive tape. This is intended to illustrate that, in one
embodiment, attachment of metal cladding 20 to plastic face plate
10C relies upon wrapping and crimping opposite vertical sides 204
and 208 around opposite vertical edges 104 and 108. Additionally,
the embodiment of FIG. 8 could also wrap and crimp ears 250 on
opposite sides of opening 130 of plastic face plate 10C. By simply
wrapping and crimping, and without adhesive or edge protecting and
retaining lips, cladding 20 can be fastened to face plate 10C.
[0118] Other variations are possible. It will be appreciated that
other variations and alternatives obvious to those skilled in the
art will be included within the scope of the invention.
* * * * *