NZ553495A - Mesh and methods and apparatus for forming mesh and link elements - Google Patents

Abstract

A method of moulding a functional link element to a mesh of linked elements is disclosed. The functional link element is of a different form to the linked elements and has a functional element formed on it (2611), and the mesh has at least one linkage point. The linkage point of the mesh (2603, 2605) is provided to a mould (2601) and a mould cavity (2609) is associated with the linkage point. Material is injected to the cavity to mould the functional link element so that it is linked to the mesh at the linkage point.

Description

10053317300* ;55 3 495 ;Our Ref: KAY023NZ Patents Form No. 5 ;PATENTS ACT 1953 ;COMPLETE SPECIFICATION ;MESH AND METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR FORMING MESH AND LINK ELEMENTS ;We, Kaynemaile Limited, a New Zealand company of Level 6 Westfield Tower, 45 Knights Road, Lower Hutt, New Zealand do hereby declare the invention for which we pray that a patent may be granted to us, and the method by which it is to be performed, to be particularly described in and by the following statement: ;1 ;2 ;MESH AND METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR FORMING MESH AND LINK ;ELEMENTS ;FIELD OF THE INVENTION ;5 The present invention relates to methods and apparatus for moulding a single link element. In particular, the present invention relates to a method of adding a new link element to three or more formed link elements, a method of adding a new link element to a mesh and apparatus for adding a link element to a component having at least one linkage point. Further, the present invention relates to methods and 10 apparatus for moulding functional link elements and mesh comprising a functional link element. ;BACKGROUND ;15 Previously known systems for producing chain mail provide an automated means of creating and forming interlinked chain mail. These automated machines can manufacture chain mail at high volume. One such example is shown in a previous PCT application filed by the applicant; WO 2004/080687, wherein it is shown how to produce a mesh of interlinked link elements. ;20 ;It is also desirable to replace a single damaged or missing link within the formed mesh or to add a single link to existing link elements. ;One problem associated with adding a link element to an existing mesh is the large 25 surface area taken up by the mesh and the need to provide the mesh to the relevant mould sections of the moulding apparatus. Apparatus previously used to mould mesh is large and bulky in order to accommodate a large number of pre-formed links so that mesh can be produced quickly. The pre-formed links are supplied in a form detached from the mesh, and are then linked to the mesh by the moulding of 30 additional link elements. However, links already attached to the mesh cannot be accommodated by the mould sections of the apparatus due to their attachment to the rest of the mesh. ;It is known to form chains wherein links are moulded through two adjacent pre- ;3 ;that a pre-moulded chain cannot easily be fed into the apparatus in order to replace a link within the chain. Further, known examples of apparatus for moulding links are particularly complex as they are specifically designed to mould a plurality of links at the same time. ;5 ;Existing methods and apparatus for forming mesh by moulding interlinking link elements produce a large number of identical link elements. ;Further, mechanisms for connecting mesh to other components can be time-10 consuming, laborious and inefficient. For example, in order to attach existing mesh to a component, a suitable attachment device is required that can be fitted to the mesh and then subsequently fitted to the component. Previous attachment methods rely on attaching the links of the produced mesh to a component by fusing, stapling or adhering, or by using any other suitable permanent attachment method. These 15 methods result in limited relative movement between the mesh and the component. Further, the attachment points are relatively weak compared to the strength of individual unjoined links, and so can be prone to breaking. ;Existing mesh is functionally very limited. That is, as the mesh is produced by 20 interlinking a large number of identical link elements, uses of the mesh can be limited to non-interactive uses, for example, supporting, holding and structural uses. ;The present invention aims to overcome, or at least alleviate, some or all of the afore-mentioned problems. ;25 ;SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION ;In one aspect, the present invention provides a method of adding a new link element to three or more formed link elements including the steps of: providing three or more 30 formed link elements; and adding a new link element to the formed link elements by moulding a single link element through at least three of the formed link elements. ;In a further aspect, the present invention provides a method of adding a new link element to a mesh including the steps of: providing a plurality of formed link ;4 ;elements forming a mesh; and adding a new link element to the mesh by moulding a single link element through at least one of the formed link elements. ;In yet a further aspect, the present invention provides apparatus for adding a link 5 element to a component having a plurality of linkage points, the apparatus including: a mould formed as a plurality of sections, at least two of which move relative to each other and close together to define a moulding cavity to mould a single link element and separate to release the moulded link element, the mould including: at least one section adapted to accommodate at least two linkage points of the component; and 10 a moulding cavity dimensioned and arranged when the mould sections are closed to mould the link element as a continuous loop that is interconnected through the at least two linkage points. ;In yet a further aspect, the present invention provides a method of moulding a 15 functional link element for linking to a mesh formed from linked elements, wherein the functional link element is of a different form to the linked elements and includes a functional element formed thereon, and the mesh has at least one linkage point, the method including the steps of: providing the linkage point of the mesh to a mould, defining a moulding cavity in the mould wherein the moulding cavity 20 associates with the linkage point, and injecting material into the moulding cavity to mould the functional link element in the moulding cavity so that it is linked to the mesh at the linkage point. ;In yet a further aspect, the present invention provides a mesh including a plurality of 25 interlinked link elements formed as continuous unjoined loops by a moulding process and further including a functional link element with an integrally moulded functional element. ;In yet a further aspect, the present invention provides apparatus adapted to mould a 30 functional link element to a component having at least one linkage point, wherein the functional link element has a functional element formed thereon, the apparatus including a mould formed as a plurality of sections, at least two of which move relative to each other and close together to define a moulding cavity to mould the link element and separate to release the moulded link element, wherein a first mould 35 section is adapted to accommodate the linkage point and the moulding cavity is ;5 ;dimensioned and arranged when the mould sections are closed to mould the functional link element as a continuous loop that is interconnected through the linkage point. ;5 In yet a further aspect, the present invention provides apparatus adapted to mould a link element to a component having at least one linkage point, the apparatus including: a mould formed as a plurality of sections, at least two of which move relative to each other and close together to define a moulding cavity for moulding the link element and separate to release the moulded link element, wherein a first 10 mould section is adapted to accommodate the linkage point and the moulding cavity is dimensioned and arranged when the mould sections are closed to mould the link element as a continuous loop that is interconnected through the linkage point, the apparatus further including: a plurality of first mould sections each adapted to provide a first portion of the moulding cavity, and a second mould section adapted to 15 provide a second portion of the moulding cavity, wherein the plurality of first mould sections are adapted to move relative to the second mould section along a continuous path. ;In yet a further aspect, the present invention provides apparatus for adding a link 20 element to a component having at least one linkage point, the apparatus including a mould formed as a plurality of sections, at least two of which move relative to each other and close together to define a moulding cavity to mould the link element and separate to release the moulded link element, wherein a first mould section is adapted to accommodate the linkage point and the moulding cavity is dimensioned 25 and arranged when the mould sections are closed to mould the functional link element as a continuous loop that is interconnected through the linkage point, the apparatus adapted to provide space around the periphery of the apparatus in order to accommodate the component when the mould sections close together. ;30 In yet a further aspect, the present invention provides a method of forming a mesh including the steps of: providing a plurality of preformed link elements; moulding a plurality of link elements through the plurality of preformed link elements so as to interconnect the moulded and preformed link elements to form a continuous mesh of interconnected link elements; integrally forming the plurality of moulded link ;6 ;elements as a single element; and separating the plurality of moulded link elements after moulding. ;In yet a further aspect, the present invention provides a method of adding a new link 5 element to two chains each formed from at least two link elements including the steps of: providing the two chains; and adding a new link element to the chains by moulding a single link element through at least one of the formed link elements from each chain. ;10 According to particular embodiments of the present invention, methods and apparatus are provided that enable a new link element to be added to or through existing link elements, mesh or a component. This enables easy inclusion of new link elements, as well as providing further uses for the mesh by providing link elements of a different form to the previously formed link elements. Further, 15 components may have new link elements attached to provide further uses for the component. The apparatus is particularly adapted for use in repairing or adding additional links to existing link elements or mesh such that the apparatus can be positioned anywhere within the existing product to provide the new link element in the required orientation. ;20 ;According to other embodiments of the present invention, methods and apparatus are provided that enable a functional link element to be moulded to a component, such as a mesh. The functional link element can provide additional functionality to the mesh. It can also provide a mechanism for attaching the component to other 25 elements, or back onto itself. ;BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS ;Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example 30 only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: ;Figure 1 shows an exploded view of moulding apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;Figure 2 shows a mounting platform for use with the moulding apparatus as shown 35 in Figure 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;7 ;Figure 3 shows the moulding apparatus mounted on the mounting platform according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;Figure 4A shows a first view of a lower front block according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;5 Figure 4B shows a second view of a lower front block according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;Figure 5 shows a lower rear block according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;Figure 6A shows a first view of an upper block according to an embodiment of the 10 present invention; ;Figure 6B shows a second view of an upper block according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;Figure 7 shows a finger according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8A shows a mesh arrangement with a damaged link that is replaced 15 according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;Figure 8B shows a mesh arrangement with a missing link that is replaced according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;Figure 9A shows two pieces of mesh connected together using one method according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;20 Figure 9B shows two pieces of mesh connected together using a further method according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;Figure 10 shows a split mesh incorporating a new link element according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;Figure 11 shows a new link element attached to a mesh according to an 25 embodiment of the present invention; ;Figure 12 shows the orientation of a sheet of mesh being controlled according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;Figure 13 shows the orientation of a sheet of mesh being controlled according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;30 Figure 14 shows a visual indication on a sheet of mesh according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;Figure 15 shows spacing, timing or counting mechanisms using a sheet of mesh according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;Figure 16 shows a component with a new link element formed thereon according to 35 an embodiment of the present invention; ;8 ;Figure 17 shows an arrangement whereby a new link element is added to a component having at least one linkage point according to an embodiment of the invention; ;Figure 18 shows a rotary moulding apparatus according to an embodiment of the 5 present invention; ;Figure 19 shows a clamping mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;Figure 20 shows a conveyor type moulding apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;10 Figure 21 shows a portion of the conveyor type moulding apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;Figure 22 shows a top perspective view of the conveyor type moulding apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;Figure 23 shows an injection mould assembly for use in the conveyor type moulding 15 apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;Figure 24 shows a group of moulding blocks and a moulding insert for use in the conveyor type moulding apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;Figure 25 shows details of a moulding block for use in the conveyor type moulding 20 apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;Figure 26 shows a lower rear block according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;Figures 27A - 27E show functional link elements without attachment means formed thereon according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;25 Figures 28A - 28Q show functional link elements with attachment means formed thereon according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;Figure 29 shows a functional link element with the functional element forming part of the functional link element formed thereon according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;30 Figure 30 shows a product tag formed according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;Figures 31A - 31B show a functional link element and track system according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;Figure 32 shows an interconnected functional link element formed according to an 35 embodiment of the present invention; ;9 ;Figure 33 shows a further interconnected functional link element formed according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;Figure 34 shows yet a further interconnected functional link element formed according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;5 Figure 35 shows a zip functional link element formed according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;Figure 36 shows a functional link element connected to a mesh according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;Figure 37 shows a functional link element in the form of a bar connected to a mesh 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;Figure 38 shows a further functional link element in the form of a bar connected to a mesh according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;Figure 39 shows a system of interconnected functional link elements in the form of bars and sheets of mesh formed according to an embodiment of the present 15 invention; ;Figure 40 shows functional link elements interconnected in the form of bars according to an embodiment of the present invention; ;DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION ;20 ;First Embodiment ;In this first embodiment of the present invention, a moulding apparatus is provided that has a moulding cavity that is arranged to mould a single link element as a 25 continuous loop through other previously formed link elements. The moulding apparatus can be utilised to add a new link element to three or more formed link elements, or to add a new link element to at least one formed link element of a mesh. Figure 1 shows an exploded view of a moulding apparatus according to this first embodiment. The moulding apparatus is arranged to mould a single link 30 element 101, and includes a finger 103, a lower rear block 105, a lower front block 107 and an upper block 109. ;Figure 2 shows a mounting platform for use with the moulding apparatus as described above. The mounting platform includes a lower support 201 with four 35 integrally moulded legs 203 protruding from each corner, an injector module support ;10 ;205 integrally moulded to a vertical support 207, wherein the vertical support 207 is integrally moulded to the lower support 201. The mounting platform may be formed from any suitable material, such as, for example, plastics or metal, e.g. steel or aluminium. A cavity is provided on the top surface of the lower support 201, which 5 accommodates two sliding plates 209 that enable the lower front block 107 to moveably slide along alignment shafts 111, as explained in more detail below. ;Lifting and guiding pins 113 are provided that enable the upper block 109 to be moved, as explained in more detail below. A stop 211 is formed in the cavity of the lower support 201, which is arranged to limit the movement of the lower front block 10 107 along the sliding plates 209. ;It will be understood that other methods of mounting the moulding apparatus may be provided. For example, the mounting frame may be assembled from multiple parts. Further, the lower mould parts of the moulding apparatus may be guided by table 15 guides or T-shaped slots on a table top. Alternatively, the upper mould parts of the apparatus may be attached to the injector, which is supported from a mounting on the ceiling or an extended arm. This provides further room around the moulding apparatus for work space and to accommodate large sheets of mesh. ;20 Figure 3 shows the moulding apparatus mounted on the mounting platform. ;The different components of the moulding apparatus will now be described in more detail. ;25 Figure 4A shows a front perspective view of the lower front block 107. The lower front block 107 includes an upper portion 401, a lower portion 403 and a T-shaped runner 405. In this embodiment, four apertures are provided on the upper surface of the upper portion 401. It will be understood that fewer or more apertures may also be provided. Each aperture is used to accommodate a portion of a link element that 30 has previously been formed. It will be understood that, alternatively, a single cavity could be used to accommodate multiple previously formed link elements. ;35 ;On a first half of the upper portion 401, a first link accommodating aperture 407a is provided which is at least twice as deep as the thickness of a previously formed link element which is to be accommodated. The first link aperture 407a mirrors the ;11 ;shape of at least a portion of the previously formed link element. Also formed on the first half of the upper portion 401 is a second link accommodating aperture 409a, which is at least as deep as the thickness of a previously formed link element that is to be accommodated. The second link aperture 409a is shaped to accommodate at 5 least a portion of a previously formed link element. It can be seen in Figure 4A that a portion of the first link aperture 407a and second link aperture 409a coincide at the rear surface of the upper portion 401. ;On a corresponding second half of the upper portion 401, a third link 10 accommodating aperture 407b is provided which is at least twice as deep as the thickness of a previously formed link element that is to be accommodated, and is formed as a mirror image of the first link aperture 407a. That is the third link aperture 407a also mirrors the shape of at least a portion of the previously formed link element. Also formed on the second half of the upper portion 401 is a fourth link 15 accommodating aperture 409b, which is at least as deep as the thickness of a previously formed link element that is to be accommodated, and is formed as a mirror image of the second link aperture 409a. The fourth link aperture 409b is also shaped to accommodate at least a portion of a previously formed link element. It can be seen in Figure 4A that a portion of the third link aperture 407b and fourth link 20 aperture 409b coincide at the rear surface of the upper portion 401. ;Figure 4B shows a rear perspective view of the lower front block 107. Two tubular alignment apertures 415 are formed within the lower portion 403 of the lower front block 107. A semi-circular moulded link protrusion 413 is formed on a back face of 25 the upper portion 401 of the lower front block. This protrusion 413 is formed to partially define a moulding cavity in which the moulded link element is created when the lower front block 107, lower rear block 105, upper block 109 and finger 103 are all placed in their relative positions for moulding the link element 101. ;30 Figure 5 shows a front perspective view of a lower rear block 105. A semi-circular moulded link aperture 501 is formed in a front face of the lower rear block 105. The aperture 501 is located on the lower rear block 105 such that it corresponds with the protrusion 413 formed on the lower front block 107 when the two blocks are placed in position for moulding a link element. The outside circumference of the moulded 35 link aperture 501 is greater than the circumference of the moulded link protrusion ;12 ;413 such that the space provided around the circumference of the protrusion 413 when the front face of the lower rear block 105 and the rear face of the lower front block 107 are pressed together forms a first portion of the annular cavity for forming the link element 101. ;5 ;Formed within the front face of the lower rear block 105 are two tubular apertures 503 for receiving the alignment shafts 111. ;On the upper surface of the lower rear block 105 four link accommodating apertures 10 (507a, 507b, 509a, 509b) are provided. It will be understood that, in the alternative, fewer or more apertures may be provided. Any aperture can be used to accommodate a portion of a link element that has previously been formed. ;Provided on a first half of the upper surface of the lower rear block 105 is a first link 15 aperture 507a, which is at least twice as deep as the thickness of a previously formed link element that is to be accommodated. The first link aperture 507a mirrors the shape of at least a portion of the previously formed link element. Also formed on the first half of the upper surface of the lower rear block 105 is a second link aperture 509a, which is at least as deep as the thickness of a previously formed 20 link element that is to be accommodated. The second link aperture 509a is shaped to accommodate at least a portion of a previously formed link element. It can be seen in Figure 5 that a portion of the first link aperture 507a and second link aperture 509a coincide at the front face of the lower rear block 105. ;25 On a corresponding second half of the upper surface of the lower rear block 105, a third link aperture 507b is provided which is at least twice as deep as the thickness of a previously formed link element that is to be accommodated, and is formed as a mirror image of the first link aperture 507a. That is the third link aperture 507a mirrors the shape of at least a portion of the previously formed link element. Also 30 formed on the second half of the upper surface of the lower rear block 105 is a fourth link aperture 509b, which is at least as deep as the thickness of a previously formed link element that is to be accommodated, and is formed as a mirror image of the second link aperture 509a. The fourth link aperture 509b is also shaped to accommodate at least a portion of a previously formed link element. It can be seen ;13 ;in Figure 5 that a portion of the third link aperture 507b and fourth link aperture 509b coincide at the front face of the lower rear block 105. ;The four apertures (507a, 507b, 509a, 509b) formed on the lower rear block 105 5 correspond with the four apertures (407a, 407b, 409a, 409b) formed on the lower front block 107. The combination of the first link aperture 507a on the lower rear block 105 with the first link aperture 407a on the lower front block 107 provides a cavity for supporting a previously formed first link element when the lower rear block 105 and lower front block 107 are placed together in order to mould the link element 10 101. Likewise, second link apertures 409a and 509a provide a cavity for a second previously formed link element, third link apertures 407b and 507b provide a cavity for a third previously formed link element and fourth link apertures 409b and 509b provide a cavity for a fourth previously formed link element. ;15 Longitudinal lifting pin apertures 505 are formed in the rear face of the lower rear block 105 to accommodate the lifting pins 113 such that space is provided to allow them to move when the lower rear block 105 is in position for moulding. ;Figure 6A shows a front perspective view of the upper block 109 and Figure 6B 20 shows a rear perspective view. Two lifting pin shafts 601 are provided that pass through a rear section of the upper block from the top surface to the bottom surface. They are dimensioned such that when the lifting pins 113 are driven vertically through the shafts 601, the upper block 109 moves in a vertical direction. That is, one portion of the shaft 601 is of a different circumference to the rest of the shaft in 25 order that each lifting pin 113 comes into contact with, and drives, the upper block 109 in the direction the lifting pins are being driven. ;An injection mould aperture 603 is formed on a front section of the upper block 109. The aperture 603 is formed from the top surface through to an exit point that 30 coincides with a second moulded link aperture 605. The second moulded link aperture 605 forms a second portion of the annular cavity for forming the link element 101. This second portion is located within a semi-circular aperture 607, which is arranged to receive the mould insert 103. ;14 ;The semi-circular aperture 607 forms a cavity to receive the mould insert 103 when the upper block 109 is placed on top of the lower front and rear blocks (107, 105). ;When the mould insert 103 is placed within the semi-circular aperture 607 and the 5 lower front block 107 is in position for moulding, an annular cavity is formed from the first and second portions of the annular cavity. It is within this cavity that a complete moulded link element 101 is produced. ;Figure 7 shows a front perspective view of the finger 103. The finger is formed as a 10 solid semi spherical portion. On one edge of the end portion a chamfer is formed to aid free movement of the finger 103 through the finger aperture 607, as well as improving the movement of the finger when the link element 101 has been formed. ;The relative movements of the different parts of the moulding apparatus will now be 15 described with reference to Figures 1 and 3. ;The upper block 109 is arranged above the lower rear block 105 such that it can move away from the lower rear block, as shown by arrow A in Figure 1. The upper block is moved by lifting pins 113, which are driven to lift the upper block 109 away 20 from the lower rear block 105. The lifting pins 113 may be moved by the operation of a manual lever connected to the pins, or may be moved by any other suitable actuator device, such as, for example, hydraulics, springs etc. ;The lower rear block 105 and lower front block 107 are both moveable away from 25 the mould insert 103, as indicated by arrow B. In this embodiment, the mould insert is in a fixed position by being fixed to the back wall of the mounting platform. ;As an alternative embodiment, the mould insert may be moved automatically or manually. The movement, whether automatic or manual, disengages the moulded 30 link element 101 from the mould insert 103. Further, it will be understood that the mould insert may be provided with positioning or gripping elements positioned on the underside of the insert in order to help move or advance the link element into or out of position during the movement of the insert. ;15 ;As a further alternative embodiment, the lower front block may be modified such that it moves in an opposite direction to arrow A in Figure 1 (i.e. the movement of the upper block). It will be understood that modifications would be required for this movement to occur, such as the removal of the alignment shafts 111, and a 5 modification of the mating faces of the lower front and lower rear blocks such that the moulded link element is able to be released from the moulded insert upon retraction when the lower front block moves away from the lower rear block. ;Referring back to the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the lower front block 107 10 moves away from the lower rear block 105, as indicated by arrow C, to allow the moulded link element 101 to be disengaged from the lower rear block 105. In this embodiment, the lower front block 107 is arranged to manually slide along the sliding plates 209 using the T-shaped runner 405. The lower rear block 105 moves by being attached to the lower front block 107 on shoulder screws, which allow both 15 blocks to move together until hitting the stop 211. At this point, the link elements in the accommodating apertures are disengaged, thus allowing the lower front block 107 to continue to move forward. It will be understood that the lower front block 107 and lower rear block 105 may be moved by any other suitable means, whether manually or by the use of a powered driving mechanism. ;20 ;The process of moulding a new link element to formed link elements will now be described with reference to the above described apparatus. ;Using the above-described apparatus, a new link element may be added to three or 25 more pre-formed link elements. The pre-formed link elements are not required to be part of a mesh that is already formed, but are separate pre-formed link elements. The pre-formed link elements are arranged in the apertures of the mould so that two are arranged in the first and second apertures (407a, 507a, 409a, 509a) and the other is arranged in one of the third or fourth apertures (407b, 507b, 409b, 509b)). 30 Alternative arrangements are also possible using different combinations of apertures. ;35 ;Further, the above-described apparatus may be used to add a new link element to at least one formed link element of a mesh. That is, the pre-formed link element which is part of the mesh is placed within any one of the first, second, third and ;16 ;fourth apertures (407a, 507a, 409a, 509a, 407b, 507b, 409b, 509b). The moulds are closed together and the new link is moulded. ;The process of moulding a new link element to a mesh will now be described. ;5 ;When moulding a link element to a mesh, at least one of the formed link elements forming the mesh is placed in to one of the first, second, third or fourth apertures (407a, 507a, 409a, 509a, 407b, 507b, 409b, 509b). It will be understood that the apparatus described above can accommodate up to four pre-formed link elements in 10 the mesh. However, it will be understood that with modifications to the apertures, further pre-formed link elements may also be accommodated. ;The components of the mould are brought together as shown in Figure 3, such that an annular cavity is formed. The annular cavity passes through the pre-formed link 15 element forming the mesh. The components of the mould are fixed in position by any suitable means that provides sufficient force to restrict the components from moving whilst the moulding process is in progress. For example, off set cams or rams may be used. Alternatively, a wedge system may provide the force to fix the components of the mould in position. ;20 ;Plastics are injected into the injection mould aperture 603. The plastic passes through the annular cavity to form the link element 101. A predetermined amount of time is allowed to pass for the plastics to sufficiently cool down. The components of the mould are then separated, as described above, to release the newly formed link 25 element 101. As an alternative, a hot runner/tips arrangement may be implemented to enable the link elements to be moulded ;This step may be repeated any number of times to attach a new link element to the mesh. Alternatively, a linear length of 4 into 1 chain may be created. ;30 ;Referring to Figure 8A, it can be seen that a damaged link 803 within a mesh 801 may be replaced using apparatus similar to the apparatus described above. That is, further apertures may be provided on the top surface of the lower rear block to accommodate the previously formed linkages. Further, the mould insert may be 35 adapted such that it is small enough to be placed between the previously formed link ;17 ;elements in the corresponding position. This modified apparatus works in a stapler like manner wherein the apparatus is adapted to mould link elements within an existing mesh. ;5 The damaged link 803 is removed from the mesh 801 and the four links that were connected to the damaged link 803 are placed within the link accommodating apertures. The mould is closed and the new link is moulded. It will be understood that for the mould to be able to form the new link element through the existing link elements, space will be provided for the existing link elements to be gathered up or 10 moved out of the way to ensure that binding does not occur during the mould process. ;Referring to Figure 8B, it can be seen that a missing link, as represented by the shading 805, may be replaced within the mesh 801 in the same manner as that 15 described above. ;Using modified apparatus with additional accommodating apertures for the existing mesh, and a suitably adapted mould insert, two pieces of mesh can be attached together by forming a new link element through existing link elements forming the 20 two pieces of mesh. ;Referring to Figure 9A, a first piece of mesh 901 and a second piece of mesh 903 are provided. Two link elements forming a portion of the first piece of mesh 901, and two link elements forming a portion of the second piece of mesh 903 are placed 25 into the pre-formed link accommodating apertures. The mould sections are closed together and the new link element 905 is moulded to connect the two pieces of mesh together. Further new link elements may be moulded to join the two pieces of mesh together along one edge. Once the new link elements are moulded, the result is a new larger piece of mesh where the join can not be seen. Alternatively, two 30 separate edges on one piece of mesh may be joined together whereby the piece of mesh is wrapped around on itself, or wrapped around a separate component. It will be understood that a new link element could be moulded through only one preformed link element in each piece of mesh. ;18 ;Referring to Figure 9B, the orientation of the new link element may be positioned differently to that described above in relation to Figure 9A. For example, the new link element may be rotated by ninety degrees thus providing a visual join between the two pieces of mesh. ;Referring to Figure 10, a new link element 1001 is shown that is moulded to a mesh 1003 that has a split. In this manner, extra support and strength is provided by the new link element 1001 where the mesh 1003 splits. ;10 Referring to Figure 11, the above-described apparatus may be adapted to mould a new link element 1101 that is larger than the previously formed link elements forming the mesh 1103. The components of the mould, including the upper block, lower front block, rear front block and mould insert may be adapted such when the components are brought together an annular cavity is formed that is of a different 15 size to the pre-formed link elements located in the first, second, third and fourth apertures. Using the adapted mould components a larger link element 1101, for example, can be formed within the pre-formed mesh 1103 to add extra support or strength. In this embodiment, the new link element 1101 is moulded through two apertures (1105,1107) that are each formed by three overlapping existing link 20 elements. It will be understood that the new link element could also be moulded through apertures formed from a single link element or two overlapping link elements. In order for the new link element to be moulded, the existing link elements are required to be gathered up to allow sufficient space for the moulding apparatus to mould the new link. ;25 ;Referring to Figure 12, the apparatus described above is used to mould one or more weighted link elements 1203 to orientate a sheet of mesh 1201. That is, the weighted link elements 1203 are of a similar size to the link elements forming the mesh 1201 but are formed from a relatively heavier material than that of the material 30 used to form the existing link elements within the mesh 1201. The link elements 1203 are moulded on the sheet of mesh along one edge, or in one area, to provide additional weight in one specific area of the mesh 1201. This causes the mesh to position itself in a particular orientation to the gravitational pull of the heavier link elements 1203. This improves the positioning capabilities of mesh whilst it is 35 hanging up against a surface. It will be understood that, as an alternative, the link ;19 ;elements could be moulded to a separate weighting element as opposed to making specific links a heavier weight than other links. ;Referring to Figure 13, apparatus described above is used to adapt the mesh 1201 5 by moulding a new link element 1301 to the mesh 1201 wherein the new link element 1301 has a weighted portion 1303 formed therein. The weighted portion 1303 may be integrally formed during the moulding of the new link element 1301 by including the weighted portion 1303 within the mould cavity that is enveloped by the plastic during the moulding step. Alternatively, the weighted portion 1303 may be 10 attached by any suitable means to the newly moulded link element 1301 after moulding. ;The apparatus described above can also be used to adapt a sheet of mesh by moulding a new link element into the mesh, wherein the new link element includes a 15 sensor that is integrally provided within the moulded link element. The sensor may be integrally formed during the moulding of the new link element by including the sensor within the mould cavity that is enveloped by the plastic during the moulding step. Alternatively, the sensor may be attached by any suitable means to the newly moulded link element after moulding. The sensor can then be detected by any 20 suitable detection means. Alternatively, the sensor may be a mechanical, electrical, electronic, optical, chemical or magnetic sensor that is adapted to provide readings based on any suitable stimuli. For example, the sensor could be used to detect movement of the mesh, stress and strain on the mesh, temperature changes, etc. The movement of the mesh may be used in motion capture techniques to enable 25 monitoring of surfaces, objects, people etc. ;New link elements may be added to an existing mesh, either by replacing existing link elements or by including the link elements in positions where previously formed links already exist, such that the new link elements are a different type to those link 30 elements previously formed in the mesh. For example, the new link elements may be of a different material or of a different visual appearance to the existing link elements. A different material may provide different optical characteristics or could be a different colour or texture to the existing link elements. Further, the different material may be more pliable or more fragile than the existing link elements to allow, 35 for example, interconnected mesh to be stretched or easily separated. ;20 ;Further, the new link elements may provide optical characteristics that enable optical effects to be created. For example, the new link elements may be moulded from a fluorescent or photochromatic material, or from a material that includes optical 5 elements. The optical elements may be provided by texturing the external surface of the new link elements to provide, for example, light reflection or refraction. Alternatively, the new link elements may include internal optical elements integrally provided within the formed link elements. For example, the internal optical element may be a retro-reflective micro-cube that provides multiple light reflections to provide 10 the optical effect. ;Figure 14 shows how added links 1403 can provide a visual indication on a sheet of mesh 1401. In this example, the new link elements are visually different to those link elements previously formed in the mesh. By adding the new links in various 15 pre-determined positions within the mesh, a pattern is formed that allows signs and signals to be produced. For example, the mesh may be used as a decorative wall hanging in a position in a building wherein there is a requirement to show the directions towards a fire exit. Visually different link elements can be moulded into the existing mesh, either by addition or replacement of existing link elements, such 20 that a sign becomes clearly visible, for example, an arrow pointing towards an exit. In a further example, the new link elements formed may be fluorescent, such that the arrow only becomes visible in the dark. This provides a mechanism of directing persons to emergency exits where normal lighting has ceased to work. ;25 Figure 15 shows a sheet of mesh 1501 that has been modified to provide a way of making spatial, timing or counting measurements. The sheet of mesh 1501 includes a number of new link elements 1503 that have been inserted into the mesh at regularly spaced intervals, such as a specific spatial interval A. The new link elements 1503 are of a different type to the existing link elements such that any 30 suitable sensor mechanism can detect and measure movement. For example, by using visually different link elements 1503, an appropriate sensor can detect the movement of the sheet of mesh and so provide a spatial, timing or counting measurement. ;21 ;The apparatus described above is adapted to provide sufficient space around its periphery to allow pre-formed mesh and other components to be brought into close proximity with the annular cavity during the moulding of the new link element. ;5 For example, one or more pieces of pre-formed mesh may be gathered up and placed around the edge of the apparatus either to mould a new link element within the existing mesh or to join pieces of mesh together. ;The space around the periphery of the moulding apparatus also allows any type of 10 component to be brought into close proximity of the annular cavity of the mould during the moulding process so that the link element can be moulded directly through apertures formed on the components. ;Examples of the moulding apparatus described above operate in a stapler like 15 manner, wherein the apparatus can be placed and rotated into any suitable position for moulding the new link element onto a mesh or through an aperture on a component at the correct point. ;The apparatus described above allows a link element to be moulded to a component 20 having at least one linkage point. That is a component that has at least one point where a continuous link may be moulded in order to attach it to the component. The linkage point is placed within the first, second, third or fourth apertures formed in the lower rear block and lower front block. The first, second, third or fourth pre-formed link accommodating apertures are adapted to accommodate the linkage point. The 25 moulds are then brought together to form the annular cavity. The link element is then moulded as a continuous loop so that it is interconnected through the linkage point of the component. Any type of component could be used in this operation wherein the component has a linkage point that can receive the moulded link element. For example, referring to Figure 17, a new link element 1701 can be 30 moulded between an existing mesh 1703 and an aperture 1705 formed in a curtain rail 1707. This operation may then be repeated to provide a sufficient number of link elements to securely attach the mesh 1703 to the curtain rail 1707. ;As a further example, the component may be a piece of fabric that has two linkage 35 points, or apertures, located towards one edge of the fabric. The link may then be ;22 ;moulded through the two apertures to provide a mechanism to attach the fabric to an attachment point, such as a curtain railing, using the link element. Alternatively, a fabric with a fold in the centre and a series of linkage apertures may be used to create a permanent folding point. ;5 ;The link element is connected to the linkage point such that it is free to move. That is, there are no joins because the link element is not fused or adhered to the linkage point. ;10 It will be understood that the orientation of the mesh may be changed such that the new link element is moulded along a different edge. Also, it will be understood that the new link element may be attached to any aperture in the component, and through any link in the existing mesh. Further, it will be understood that the orientation of the new link element may be changed such that it is moulded in a 15 position substantially perpendicular to the existing links within the mesh. ;Second embodiment ;Referring to Figure 18, a rotary moulding apparatus 1801 according to a second 20 embodiment of the present invention is now described. It will be appreciated that certain elements of the rotary moulding apparatus are not shown in Figure 18 for clarity purposes. In particular, the view in Figure 18 only shows the support and clamping mechanisms on one side of the moulding apparatus, whereas it will be understood that similar arrangements are in place on both sides. ;25 ;The rotary moulding apparatus 1801 includes a support 1803 that supports the rest of the apparatus. A number of moulding blocks 1805 are positioned circumferentially around a cam 1807. In this embodiment, each moulding block 1805 is identical and includes link apertures 1812 for accommodating the existing 30 links as well as a first portion 1809 of the moulding cavity for producing the moulded link. Each moulding block 1805 has a T-shaped track portion that locates in a slot around the periphery of the cam 1807. The track portions are the same as those described below with reference to the third embodiment. The track mechanism allows each moulding block 1805 to move around the circumference of the cam 35 1807. ;23 ;The cam 1807 is fixed to a central axis 1808. The cam is shaped to provide a means to move a portion of the moulding blocks 1805 away from the central axis 1808. As each moulding block 1805 is moved around the circumference of the cam 5 1807 on the track mechanism, it is also moved away from the central axis when it reaches the points on the cam that have a greater circumference. The first portion of the moulding cavity 1809 formed within the moving moulding block 1805 is moved away from a neighbouring moulding block such that the moulded link (not shown) within the cavity can be released. ;10 ;Located on an upper portion of the support 1803 is an injection mould assembly 1810 that is arranged to inject plastics into the moulding cavity 1809. That is, plastics are injected through an injection hole (not shown) in a similar fashion to that described above in relation to the first embodiment. A mould insert 1811 similar to 15 the mould insert of the first embodiment is located within the injection mould assembly to define a second portion of the moulding cavity for moulding the link element therein. ;It will be understood that alternative mould insert arrangements may be envisaged. 20 For example, the mould insert may be integral to the moving components of the mould assembly. Further, the mould insert may be formed as two separate components that come together to form a portion of the moulding cavity. ;Located on each side portion of the support 1803 is a clamping drive mechanism 25 1817. Only one side is shown for clarity purposes. ;Referring to Figure 19, the clamping mechanism is now explained. The clamping drive mechanism 1817 may be any suitable type of drive. For example, the clamping drive mechanism 1817 may operate using electrical, hydraulic or 30 pneumatic pistons. Any type of drive that can provide sufficient force to clamp the moulding blocks 1805 together during the moulding process may be used. Protrusions 1815 located on the outer edge of the moulding blocks 1805 are shaped to correspond with clamp portions 1813. The clamp portions 1813 are forced against the protrusions 1815 by the drive mechanism 1817 to provide sufficient force 35 for keeping neighbouring moulding blocks locked together. A force is applied to the ;24 ;moulding blocks in a direction perpendicular to the direction of movement of the protrusions. This force drives the moulding blocks together. In this embodiment, the protrusions 1815 and clamp portions 1813 are V-shaped, with each being offset by 50% to allow the clamp portions 1813 to lock with the protrusions 1815. ;5 ;Operation of the rotary moulding apparatus will now be explained. ;At least one pre-formed link element forming a mesh is placed in one of the link apertures 1812 of the moulding block 1805, in a similar fashion to that discussed in 10 the first embodiment. The injection mould assembly 1810 moves towards the moulding block 1805, which in this embodiment is in a downwards direction. The mould insert 1811 is inserted into the aperture of the injection mould assembly 1810, in a similar fashion to that of the mould insert discussed in the first embodiment. The annular moulding cavity in which the new link element is to be moulded is thus 15 formed from the first and second portions of the moulding cavity. ;The moulding blocks 1805 are clamped together using the clamping drive mechanism 1817. In this embodiment, the clamp portions 1813 are positioned to simultaneously clamp more than two moulding blocks together. That is, moulding 20 blocks on either side of the two moulding blocks providing the enclosed first portion of the annular mould cavity are also clamped and locked in position during the mould process. This is to ensure that warping or distortion of the moulding blocks does not occur due to the injection forces applied when the plastics are injected into the moulding cavity. However, it will be understood, that only two moulding blocks 25 are required to be clamped together to ensure that the mould cavity remains enclosed during the moulding process. ;Plastics are injected into the injection mould aperture. The plastic passes through the annular mould cavity to form the link element, which passes through the pre-30 formed link element forming the mesh. A predetermined amount of time is allowed to pass for the plastics to sufficiently cool down. The clamping drive mechanism 1817 is operated to release the clamp portions 1813 from the protrusions 1815. The moulding blocks are moved along the track mechanism around the cam 1807 by any suitable means. For example, it is envisaged in this embodiment that the moulding 35 blocks are moved by the tension on the mesh as it is removed from the moulding ;25 ;apparatus. It will be understood that other mechanisms could be used to move the moulding blocks. For example, the moulding blocks may be moved incrementally through an adaptation of the clamp and clamp portions causing the incremental movement when clamping and unclamping the moulding blocks. ;5 ;As the moulding blocks are moved around the cam 1807 they become separated thus allowing the formed link element to drop out of the moulding cavity 1809. ;The moulding step may be repeated any number of times to attach any number of 10 new link elements to the mesh. ;Using the above-described apparatus, two sheets of mesh may be joined together by the moulded link element by attaching one sheet to one set of link apertures on the moulding block, and a second sheet to the second set of apertures on the 15 moulding block. ;It will be understood that the above-described apparatus may be modified to mould functional link elements as described below. ;20 Third embodiment ;Referring to Figure 20 a third embodiment of the present invention is now described. Figure 20 shows a conveyor type moulding apparatus 2001. A support structure 2003 consists of a base portion, a rear portion and an upper portion. Legs 2005 are 25 provided to support a conveyor structure 2007. The conveyor structure 2007 provides an endless path along which moulding blocks 2009 can travel. In this embodiment, the conveyor path is a rounded rectangular path. However, it will be understood that the path can be arranged to follow any other suitable shape. ;30 Newly moulded links 2011 are moulded through pre-formed links 2013, which are arranged on the moulding blocks 2009. An injection mould assembly 2015 is arranged above the conveyor structure 2007 such that it can move in a vertical direction to come into contact with the moulding blocks 2009. A mould insert 2017 is arranged to move horizontally into and out of contact with the injection mould ;26 ;assembly 2015 in a similar fashion to that described above in relation to the first and second embodiments and their alternatives. ;Figure 21 shows a more detailed view of the conveyor structure 2007 with the 5 moulding blocks 2009 and injection mould assembly 2015 removed for clarity reasons. The conveyor structure 2007 is formed as two parts, a first part 2101A and a second part 2101B. By positioning the two parts (2101A and 2101B) such that a gap is provided between them, a slot 2101 is formed. This slot 2101 provides the means to allow the moulding blocks 2009 to move around the circumference of the 10 conveyor structure 2007. It will be understood that alternative arrangements may be used to allow the moulding blocks to move along a continuous path. ;Figure 22 shows a top perspective view of the moulding apparatus 2001 with the upper and rear portions of the support 2003 removed for clarity purposes. The 15 moulding blocks 2009 are formed with pre-formed link apertures 2201 located in the upper section of the block, in a similar fashion to the link apertures (407a, 507a, 407b, 507b, 409a, 509a, 409b, 509b) described in the first embodiment. ;Protrusions 2203 are provided on the side of each moulding block 2009. The 20 protrusions are arranged to provide a clamping mechanism that works in a similar fashion to that described above in the second embodiment. It will be understood that a clamping drive mechanism and clamp portions are required in this embodiment to carry out the clamping of the moulding blocks. However, the clamping drive mechanism and clamp portions are not shown for clarity purposes. ;25 ;Figure 23 shows details of the injection mould assembly 2015. A first portion of the mould cavity 2301 is provided within a lower portion of the injection mould assembly 2015. At an upper central position within the first portion of the mould cavity 2301 is formed an injection mould aperture 2302, in a similar fashion to that described 30 above in relation to the first embodiment. An aperture 2305 is provided in the lower portion of the injection mould assembly 2015 to receive the mould insert 2017 during the moulding process. When the mould insert 2017 is received within the mould insert aperture 2305, the first portion of the mould cavity 2301 becomes enclosed. ;27 ;Referring to Figures 24 and 25 a detailed view of the moulding blocks 2009, with a mould insert 2017 in position during the moulding process is shown. Other portions of the apparatus are not shown for clarity purposes. In particular, the injection mould assembly 2015 would be in a position as shown in Figure 20 and 22 wherein 5 it is in contact with the moulding blocks 2009. A new moulded link 2403 is shown protruding out of a second portion of the mould cavity 2501 formed in a moulding block. In Figure 25, the moulding block 2009 shown does not show the clamp portions 2203 for clarity purposes. The second portion of the mould cavity 2501 is formed within a surface of the moulding block 2009 and provides a semi-circular ring 10 shaped cavity for forming the new moulded link 2403. ;An explanation of how the conveyor moulding system works is now provided. ;In the start position, the injection mould assembly 2015 is raised and the mould 15 insert 2017 is retracted. Pre-formed link elements are fed into the system and placed in the pre-formed link apertures 2201 of the moulding blocks 2009. The drive mechanism (nor shown) for driving the moulding blocks advances the moulding blocks along one position and the moulding blocks are clamped together. It will be understood that the moulding blocks can be moved around the conveyor 20 mechanism by any suitable means. For example, it is envisaged in this embodiment that the moulding blocks are moved by the tension on the mesh as it is removed from the moulding apparatus. It will be understood that other mechanisms could be used to move the moulding blocks. The moulding blocks could be driven directly from a controlled dedicated driving mechanism or may be moved by an external 25 means. For example, the moulding blocks may be moved incrementally through an adaptation of the clamp and clamp portions causing the incremental movement when clamping and unclamping the moulding blocks. ;During the next phase, the mould insert 2017 is moved horizontally into position 30 above the moulding blocks 2009. The injection mould assembly 2015 is then lowered to its moulding position such that its lower surface abuts the upper surface of the moulding blocks 2009. At this point, the first and second portions of the mould cavity are joined and positioned to provide an annular mould cavity in which the new link element is to be moulded. ;35 ;28 ;Plastics are then injected through the injection mould aperture 2303 and into the annular mould cavity to form the link element, which passes through the pre-formed link elements placed on the moulding blocks. A predetermined amount of time is allowed to pass for the plastics to sufficiently cool down. The clamping drive 5 mechanism is operated to release the clamps. The moulding blocks are moved incrementally along the conveyor mechanism and the process is repeated. ;It will be understood that the conveyor moulding apparatus described above can have less or more moulding blocks than those shown in the associated figures. It is 10 to be understood that the number of moulding blocks provided should be sufficient to allow the pre-formed link elements to be provided to the apparatus, as well as providing a sufficient number of moulding blocks to enable the moulding blocks to be efficiently clamped together to allow the moulding process to be carried out. This is bearing in mind the time required to allow the blocks to separate, move around the 15 conveyor and re-enter the system, and allowing sufficient time for the moulded links to cool down and be separated from the moulding blocks. For example, a minimum of three moulding blocks would be suitable to enable the mechanism to work. However, 5 or more is desirable to provide a more efficient moulding mechanism. ;20 Further, it will be understood that the arrangement of the moulding blocks may be duplicated such that simultaneous moulding occurs in multiple sections. For example, a number of mould blocks may be positioned adjacent to each other to enable a row of link elements in one direction to be moulded during one mould cycle. Further, the mould insert may be extended and the moulding cavities 25 reproduced to allow more than one link element to be moulded in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction during one mould cycle. This provides a mechanism for moulding an array of link elements simultaneously during a single mould cycle. ;30 Fourth embodiment ;In this fourth embodiment, apparatus for moulding a functional link element to a component, such as a mesh, is provided. It will be understood that a functional link element can be moulded to components other than a mesh, such as, for example, 35 fabrics, furniture, connectors etc. Referring to Figure 26, an alternative lower rear ;29 ;block 2601 to that described above in the first embodiment is shown. This lower rear block is to be used in conjunction with the rest of the apparatus as described in the first embodiment. ;5 The term functional in relation to a functional link element or functional element is intended to mean the ability to either enable a connection to a component or to enable an extension of a component. ;Four apertures (2603a, 2603b, 2605a, 2605b) are provided on the upper surface of 10 the lower rear block 2601 for accommodating the pre-formed link elements. It will be understood that, in the alternative, fewer or more apertures may be provided. Each aperture is used to accommodate a portion of a link element that has previously been formed in the same manner as that described above in relation to the first embodiment. ;15 ;Formed within the front face of the lower rear block 2601 are two tubular apertures 2607 for receiving the alignment shafts in a similar fashion as described above in relation to the first embodiment. ;20 In this embodiment, the moulded link aperture 2609 formed on the front face of the lower rear block is provided to form a functional link element. The moulded link aperture 2609 also includes a functional element aperture 2611 for forming a functional element portion of the functional link element. That is, the plastics that are injected through the injection mould aperture pass into the functional element 25 aperture 2611 to form the functional element portion of the functional link element. ;Using the lower rear block 2609 of this embodiment, a functional link element is added to an existing mesh. The mesh is made from a number of interconnected link elements which are of a different form to the functional link element. The link 30 elements of the mesh have a linkage point formed by the aperture that passes through each link. A linkage point is positioned on the lower rear block by placing at least one pre-formed link element in the mesh within at least one of the four apertures (2603a, 2603b, 2605a, 2605b). The functional link element is then moulded through one of the linkage points so that it is connected to the mesh. The 35 connection to the mesh is such that the functional link element is free to move ;30 ;around the connected link element on the mesh. That is, there are no joins because the functional link element is not fused or adhered to the mesh. ;A number of different types of functional link elements will now be described. It is to 5 be understood that many other forms of functional link element may be formed. ;Figures 27A - 27E show functional link elements without attachment means formed thereon. That is, different arrangements of the functional element aperture result in different forms of the functional link element. It will be understood that various forms 10 of the functional link element also arise from an adapted surface on the lower front block. That is, the face of the lower front block that mates with the front face of the lower rear block 2601 has various apertures or protrusions located thereon in order to form certain portions of the functional element. ;15 In each figure, a plan view and side view of the functional link element is shown. ;Figure 27A shows a functional link element 2701 with an annular ring shaped portion having a planar rectangular functional element 2703 attached thereto. The functional element 2703 extends from the annular ring portion of the link element 20 generally in the plane of the functional link element. ;Figure 27B shows a functional link element 2705 with an annular ring shaped portion having a planar rectangular functional element 2707 attached thereto. The functional element 2707 extends from the functional link element such that the larger 25 surface of the functional element is perpendicular to the plane of the ring portion of the functional link element 2705. That is, the functional element 2707 in this functional link element 2705 is formed perpendicular to the functional element 2703 formed in the functional link element 2701 shown in Figure 27A. ;30 Figure 27C shows a functional link element 2709 with an annular ring shaped portion. Extending from the ring shaped portion is a rectangular functional element 2711 which partially extends perpendicular to the plane of the ring shaped portion forming an L-shape. ;31 ;Figure 27D shows a functional link element 2713 with an annular ring shaped portion. A rectangular functional element 2715 extends from the ring shaped portion at an angle of approximately 45 degrees to the plane of the ring shaped portion. ;5 Figure 27E shows a functional link element 2717 with an annular ring shaped portion. A rectangular functional element 2719 extends from the ring shaped portion at an angle of approximately 45 degrees to the plane of the ring shaped portion and then forms another approximately 45 degree angle to extend parallel to the plane of the ring shaped portion. ;10 ;It will be understood that the angle the functional element is formed may be varied. ;Figures 28A - 28Q show functional link elements with attachment means formed thereon. In each figure, a plan view and side view of the functional link element is 15 shown. It will be understood that where a portion is moulded outside of the plane of the ring shaped portion, a removable portion is required to be retracted. ;Figure 28A shows a functional link element 2801 with an annular ring shaped portion. Extending from the ring shaped portion is a rectangular functional element 20 2803 with a C-shaped runner section formed thereon at the distal end. The C- ;shaped section may be used to attach the functional link element 2801 to a rail. For example, the functional link element 2801 may be moulded along one end of a mesh, and the mesh may be hung up using a rail attachment that fixes to the C-shaped section. In this manner, the functional link element 2801 allows the mesh to 25 be moved along the rail. ;Figure 28B shows a functional link element 2805 with an annular ring shaped portion. Extending from the ring shaped portion is a connecting rod portion that connects to a C-shaped runner section 2807. The C-shaped section may be used 30 to attach the functional link element 2805 to a rail, in the same manner as described above. ;Figure 28C shows a functional link element 2809 with an annular ring shaped portion. Extending from the ring shaped portion is a rectangular functional element 35 2811 with a rectangular aperture portion formed thereon. The aperture portion may ;32 ;be used to connect the functional link element 2809 to any suitable attachment device. ;Figure 28D shows a functional link element 2813 with an annular ring shaped 5 portion. A rectangular aperture portion forms the functional element 2815, which is attached tangentially to the ring shaped portion. ;Figure 28E shows a functional link element 2817 with an annular ring shaped portion. A functional element 2819 extends from the ring shaped portion such that 10 the larger surface of the functional element 2819 is perpendicular to the plane of the ring portion. The functional element is rectangular with a rectangular aperture formed therein at one end. ;Figure 28F shows a functional link element 2821 with an annular ring shaped portion. Extending from the ring shaped portion is a functional element 2823, which 15 is in the form of a planar portion with a hook attached thereto. The curvature of the hook portion lies in the same plane as the functional link element. ;Figure 28G shows a functional link element 2825 with an annular ring shaped portion. A functional element 2827 in the form of a hook extends from the ring 20 shaped portion. The curvature of the hook portion lies in the same plane as the functional link element. ;Figure 28H shows a functional link element 2829 with an annular ring shaped portion. Extending from the ring shaped portion is a functional element 2831, which 25 is in the form of a planar portion with a hook attached thereto. The curvature of the hook portion lies in a plane perpendicular to the functional link element. ;Figure 28I shows a functional link element 2833 with an annular ring shaped portion. Extending from the ring shaped portion is a functional element 2835, which is in the 30 form of a planar portion with a clip attached thereto. The clip is in the form of a split arrow tip. That is, a barbed arrow tip portion is provided with a split down the centre of the arrow to allow movement when the tip is compressed. ;Figure 28J shows a functional link element 2837 with an annular ring shaped 35 portion. A functional element 2839 in the form of a clip extends from the ring ;33 ;shaped portion. The clip is in the form of a split arrow tip. That is, a barbed arrow tip portion is provided with a split down the centre of the arrow to allow movement when the tip is compressed. The barbed arrow tip portions lies in the same plane as the functional link element 2837. ;5 ;Figure 28K shows a functional link element 2841 with an annular ring shaped portion. A functional element 2843 in the form of a clip extends from the ring shaped portion. The clip is in the form of a split arrow tip. That is, a barbed arrow tip portion is provided with a split down the centre of the arrow to allow movement 10 when the tip is compressed. The barbed arrow tip portions lies in a perpendicular plane to the functional link element 2841. ;Figure 28L shows a functional link element 2845 with an annular ring shaped portion. Extending from the ring shaped portion is a functional element 2847, which 15 is in the form of a planar portion with a T-shaped track portion attached thereto. The functional element 2847 of the functional link element 2845 may be attached to a runner system to allow mesh to be connected to external components, such as, for example, curtain rails. ;20 Figure 28M shows a functional link element 2849 with an annular ring shaped portion. Extending from the ring shaped portion is a functional element 2851 in the form of a connecting rod portion that connects to an aperture portion. The aperture portion extends from the rod portion perpendicular to the plane of the functional link element. An aperture is formed through the aperture portion in a direction 25 perpendicular to the aperture in the annular ring shaped portion. It will be understood that the aperture may be formed through the aperture portion in other directions. ;Figure 28N shows a functional link element 2853 with an annular ring shaped 30 portion. Extending from the ring shaped portion is a functional element 2855, which is in the form of a planar portion with an anchor portion attached thereto. The hook portions of the anchor portion lie in the same plane as the functional link element. It will be understood that the hook portion may be orientated in other ways. ;34 ;Figure 28P shows a functional link element 2857 with an annular ring shaped portion. Extending from the ring shaped portion is a functional element 2859 in the form of a connecting rod portion that connects to an attachment portion. The attachment portion is formed as a rectangular block, which is designed to attach to a 5 component 2861 that includes a rectangular recess 2863 that complements the rectangular block. It will be understood that the attachment portion may be arranged in any other suitable shape, wherein the recess for receiving the attachment portion is a complementary shape to that of the attachment portion. ;10 Figure 28Q shows a functional link element 2865 shaped as an annular ring shaped portion. Passing through the main body of the functional link element 2865 is a functional element 2867 in the form of an aperture. That is, a further aperture is integrally formed in the annular ring portion that allows the functional link element to be attached to a component by using a cable, wire, string or such like connecting 15 means. ;Figure 29 shows a functional link element 2901 shaped as an annular ring shaped portion. The functional element 2901 is formed as an integral part of the annular ring portion, and is not formed as an additional component attached to the ring 20 portion. The functional element 2903 is formed as a recess within the internal wall of the ring portion. The recess is shaped as a runner for attachment to a track system. It will be understood that the recess may be any other suitable shape for use as part of an attachment mechanism. ;25 Figure 30 shows a functional link element 3001 with an annular ring shaped portion is formed as a product tag. Extending from the ring shaped portion is a functional element 2859 in the form of a connecting rod portion that connects to a product tag portion. The product tag portion includes a planar surface for inscribing a product name 3005, code or the like thereon. The planar surface may be orientated in any 30 suitable way such that the product name, code or the like is readable when the functional link element is attached to a component, such as a mesh. ;Figure 31A shows a functional link element 3101 and track system. The functional link element 3101 is an annular ring shape with a protruding rectangular alignment 35 portion 3103. The alignment portion is integrally formed on the ring shape portion ;35 ;body so it protrudes in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the functional link element 3101. A number of functional link elements 3101 are attached to a portion of a mesh. The mesh is aligned with a moving track 3105 that includes a number of apertures 3107 that correspond in shape with the alignment portions 3103. In this 5 manner, the mesh moves in the direction A with the moving track 3105 thus providing a supporting layer for resting items upon. In this embodiment, the mesh is easily detachable from the moving track 3105. Mesh formed in this manner may provide a hygienic conveyor device that is easy to clean. ;10 Figure 31B shows an alternative design to that described above. A functional link element 3109 includes an alignment portion 3111 shaped to lock into an aperture 3113 on a moving track such that the functional link element is not easily detached from the moving track. The aperture and alignment portions are shaped to complement each other. In this embodiment, the aperture and alignment portions 15 are a truncated cone shape. ;Figure 32 shows a functional link element 3201 with a plurality of annular ring portions 3203. Each ring portion 3203 has a connecting portion 3205 extending therefrom to integrally connect to a bar 3207. The bar 3207 includes one or more 20 apertures 3209 for affixing the bar 3205 to a suitable connecting element. This functional link element 3201 enables a row of ring portions to be moulded to a suitable component, such as a mesh, in order to provide an integrated connection mechanism along one side of the mesh. In this manner, it is not required to mould individual functional link elements along an edge of a mesh. ;25 ;Figure 33 shows a functional link element 3301 with a plurality of annular ring portions 3303. Each ring portion 3303 has a connecting portion 3305 extending therefrom to a line of weakness 3307 which connects to a bar 3309. The line of weakness 3307 is an end region of the connection portion, which is thinner than the 30 remaining portions in order to provide a mechanism for disconnecting the ring portions 3303 from the bar 3309. ;Figure 34 shows a functional link element 3401 with a plurality of annular ring portions 3403. In this embodiment, each ring portion 3403 is connected to at least 35 one neighbouring ring portion by a line of weakness 3405. ;36 ;Figure 35 shows a functional link element 3501 with a plurality of annular ring portions 3503. Each ring portion 3503 has a connecting portion 3505 extending therefrom to integrally connect to a first edge of a bar 3507. On an edge opposite 5 the first edge of the bar 3507 is formed a zip attachment mechanism 3509. The zip mechanism 3509 allows the functional link element 3501 to be interconnected to a complementary zip mechanism formed on another component. In this manner, it is possible to easily attach and detach the functional link element from other components. ;10 ;Figure 36 shows functional link elements 2809 as described above connected to a component, such as a mesh 3601. The functional link elements 2809 are moulded along one edge of the mesh 3601 to provide a mechanism for attaching the mesh to a component. The functional link elements include an attachment mechanism 2811 15 that allows it to be attached to the component. It will be understood that any of the functional link elements described herein may be attached to a component in this manner, and that the functional link elements may be attached to the component on any suitable portion of the component. ;20 Figure 37 shows a functional link element in the form of a moulded bar with at least one aperture for connecting to a component, such as a mesh. A mesh 3701 is connected to the functional link element 3705 by attachment to one of the link elements 3703 forming the mesh 3701. The functional link element 3705 includes a first portion 3705a, which is formed in one of the adapted lower front or rear blocks. 25 The functional link element 3705 also includes a second portion 3705b, which is formed in the other one of the lower front or rear blocks. A join line 3706 is shown in the figure to indicate the boundary of the first and second portions. However, it will be understood that the line is only indicative of the arrangement of the lower and rear blocks and will not necessarily be visible or in the specific location indicated in 30 the figure. ;Located on one edge of the moulded block is moulded an attachment element 3707. The attachment element is in the form of a rod protruding from the second portion of the moulded bar via a connecting portion. The attachment element 3707 is formed 35 so that it provides an attachment mechanism for attaching the functional link ;37 ;element to a component. A component 3709 is shown in the form of a bar with an aperture 3711 formed through the length of the bar in a manner that corresponds to the shape of the attachment element. The functional link element in the form of a moulded bar removes the need to mould individual functional link elements to 5 provide an attachment mechanism. The bar also provides more stability and rigidity at the edge of the component to which it is attached. It will be understood that the form of the attachment element may differ to that shown and described above. For example, the attachment element may be in any suitable shape, such as, for example, a hook, zip, clip, aperture, etc. ;10 ;Figure 38 shows a functional link element in the form of a moulded bar with at least one aperture for connecting to a component, such as a mesh. A mesh 3801 is connected to the functional link element 3805 by attachment to one of the link elements 3803 forming the mesh 3801. The functional link element 3805 includes a 15 first portion 3805a, which is formed in one of the adapted lower front or rear blocks. The functional link element 3805 also includes a second portion 3705b, which is formed in the other one of the lower front or rear blocks. As in the above embodiment, a join line is shown in the figure to indicate the boundary of the first and second portions. In this embodiment, an attachment element is not provided on 20 the functional link element. ;Figure 39 shows a system of interconnected functional link elements in the form of moulded bars as described above in relation to figure 38. A number of sheets of mesh are connected in between each bar to form a conveyor surface. A first piece 25 of mesh 3901 is connected between a first functional link element 3903 and a second functional link element 3905. A second piece of mesh 3907 is connected between the second functional link element 3905 and a third functional link element 3909. This provides a series of pieces of mesh connected together with bars. This arrangement can be utilised in a conveyor, wherein the bars may be slotted into 30 attachment points on a conveyor mechanism in order to move the conveyor surface. Products in a manufacturing environment, for example, may be placed on the conveyor surface and moved from one area to another. The moulded bars provide a mechanism for separating out different sections of the conveyor surface, as well as providing a physical barrier that helps to reduce movement of products when on 35 the conveyor surface. ;38 ;Further, as an alternative, it will be understood that the link elements connected to the bars may be fused to the bars such that these link elements are rigid compared with the other more flexible link elements. ;5 ;Figure 40 shows functional link elements in the form of moulded bars which are interconnected with each other. A first functional link element 4001 includes a series of circular apertures 4001a formed in a rectangular bar. A second functional link element 4003 is formed in the same manner. The first and second functional 10 link elements (4001, 4003) are interconnected through their respective apertures (4001a, 4003a) during the process of moulding the functional link elements. For example, a pre-formed functional link element is provided in a mould in a suitably adapted aperture. The mould is then closed, and the new functional link element is moulded such that the link elements of the new functional link element are 15 interconnected with the link elements of the pre-formed functional link element. ;The arrangement as shown in figure 40, and discussed above provides an alternative conveyor mechanism to that described above in relation to figure 39. Further, the arrangement of the interconnected functional link elements provides a ;20 mechanism for securing cabling, or providing a cable run. For example, the interconnected functional link elements could be affixed to a ceiling of a building as a false ceiling. The cables may then be laid along the v-shaped channels of the interconnected functional link elements. The cables may then be passed through the apertures provided. ;25 ;As can be seen above, in some of the embodiments described above the functional element may be moulded either generally in the plane of the functional link element or generally transverse to a plane of the link element. ;30 As in the first embodiment described above, the apparatus provided in this embodiment is adapted to provide sufficient space around its periphery to allow preformed mesh and other components to be brought into close proximity with the moulding cavity during the moulding of the functional link element. ;39 ;The space around the periphery of the moulding apparatus also allows any type of component to be brought into close proximity of the moulding cavity in the mould during the moulding process so that the functional link element can be moulded directly through a linkage point formed on the component. ;5 ;The moulding apparatus operates in a stapler like manner, wherein the apparatus can be placed and rotated into any suitable position for moulding the functional link element onto a linkage point. ;10 It will be understood that, although the moulded link aperture 2609 discussed above is provided on the lower rear block 2601, additional functional aperture portions used to form the functional element may be provided on the moulding blocks described in the second and third embodiments in order to mould the above described functional link elements. ;15 ;It will be understood that any suitable form of post processing may be carried out on the moulded link elements. For example, a hot plate may be utilised to create a flat surface. Alternatively, an elastic material may be moulded that is constrained by the mesh when it reaches its maximum elasticity. ;20 ;Further Embodiments ;It will be understood that the embodiments of the present invention described herein are by way of example only, and that various changes and modifications may be 25 made without departing from the scope of invention. ;For example, it will be understood that by modifying the order and material in which link elements are moulded a pattern may be produced throughout the mesh. For example, by moulding different coloured link elements in a predetermined pattern 30 with clear link elements any suitable arrangement can be envisaged to produce a pattern. ;It will be further understood that the embodiments described above may be utilized to mould new link elements that join two chains together. For example, joining two 35 chains together can form, what is known as Japanese chain mail or armour. This ;40 ;particular chain mail is formed by moulding a link between two existing chains where the existing chain links are orientated in a first direction, and the new link is moulded so that it is orientated in a second direction perpendicular to the first and connects the two chains together. ;41 *

Claims (20)

Claims:

1. A method of moulding a functional link element for linking to a mesh formed from linked elements, wherein the functional link element is of a different form to the 5 linked elements and includes a functional element formed thereon, and the mesh has at least one linkage point, the method including the steps of: providing the linkage point of the mesh to a mould, defining a moulding cavity in the mould wherein the moulding cavity associates with the linkage point, and 10 injecting material into the moulding cavity to mould the functional link element in the moulding cavity so that it is linked to the mesh at the linkage point.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the moulding step includes the step of integrally moulding the functional link element to the linkage point. 15

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the moulding step includes the step of moulding the functional link element such that the functional link element is movably linked to the linkage point. 20

4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the moulding step includes the step of moulding the functional element so it extends from the functional link element.

5. The method according to claim 1, wherein the moulding step includes the 25 step of moulding the functional element so it forms part of the functional link element.

6. The method according to claim 1, wherein the functional element is moulded so as to form an attachment device thereon and the attachment device is adapted to 30 attach the functional link element to a component.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein the attachment device is formed as one of a zip, a hook, aperture, clasp, clip, runner, track or anchor. 42

8. The method according to claim 6, wherein the attachment device forms a connector that is complementary to a further connector on the component.

9. The method according to claim 6, wherein the component is one of a cable, 5 wire, rod, rail, track, mesh or bar.

10. The method according to claim 1, wherein the mesh includes a plurality of formed links and the linkage point is an aperture in at least one of the formed links. 10

11. The method according to claim 1, wherein the functional link element is a moulded bar with at least one aperture.

12. The method according to claim 1, wherein the functional element is a product tag. 15

13. The method according to claim 1, wherein the mesh is a conveyor material and the linkage point is an aperture formed through the conveyor material.

14. A mesh including a plurality of interlinked link elements formed as continuous 20 unjoined loops by a moulding process and further including a functional link element with an integrally moulded functional element.

15. The mesh of claim 14, wherein the integrally moulded functional element is an extended portion. 25

16. The mesh of claim 15, wherein the extended portion is formed so as to overlap at least one other link element within the mesh.

17. The mesh of claim 15, wherein the extended portion has an attachment 30 device formed thereon.

18. The mesh of claim 17, wherein the attachment device is at least one of a zip, a hook, an aperture, a clasp, a clip, a runner, a track or an anchor. 43

19. The mesh of claim 14, wherein the integrally moulded functional element is an attachment device.

20. The mesh of claim 19, wherein the attachment device is at least one of a zip, 5 a hook, an aperture, a clasp, a clip, a runner, a track or an anchor. KAYNEMAILE LIMITED 10 By Tpeir Attorneys Ellis | Verboeket | Terry P5/1/5372