NIKE, Inc.
SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR THERMOFORMING ARTICLES

Abstract:

Systems and processes for thermoforming an article are disclosed. The system can include a first heating station that can include a first heating zone and a second heating zone. The system can further include a first cooling station for reducing the temperature of the heated article to a range of about 50.degree. C. to about 70.degree. C. while exposing the article to atmospheric pressure. The system can also include a second cooling station that can expose an article to a pressure above atmospheric pressure.