Apparatus for making molded window gasket assembly

Abstract

An improved window gasket assembly and the apparatus and associated method for reaction injection molding such assemblies, as well as other molded articles, are disclosed. The gasket is preferably integrally molded from an elastomeric material such as urethane onto a substantially transparent window panel. The gasket and window assembly can then be mounted and secured directly to a vehicle body panel opening, for example, with adhesives, thereby eliminating the need for discrete mechanical fasteners. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, an improved aftermixer and gating apparatus includes a mixing body in which a flowable multi-constituent molding material is separated into a number of generally serpentine mixing passageways and reunited in a common mixing cavity before being conveyed through a fan-gate passageway to the mold cavity. Adjustment means is provided for selectively altering the size of the mixing cavity and its inlet openings in order to selectively alter the back-pressure exerted on the material flowing therethrough, thereby enhancing the mixing of the molding material constituents. An improved mold apparatus is also preferably employed and includes elongated elastomeric members along the preferable edge of the mold cavity for supportingly engaging the mold members and substantially minimizing or preventing flashing of the molding material therefrom.