Flexible grip with intermediate member

Abstract

A flexible tubular implement grip with a first section formed of elastomeric material having a first set of properties and a second section having a second different set of properties. An annular interface member is disposed between and abutted and bonded to the first and second section on opposite sides of the interface member. The interface member is fitted on a core bar and inserted therewith in a mold. The materials of different properties are then disposed concurrently in the mold, either for compression molding or by injection and cured in a single molding operation. The interface member may have grooves on the inner or outer periphery to provide positive interlocking engagement of the elastomeric material with the interface member.

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         7 . A method of making a flexible tubular grip for the handle of an implement of the type to be moved with speed and force comprising:
 (a) disposing an annular interface member on a core bar;   (b) inserting the core bar with the annular interface member thereon in a mold;   (c) concurrently injecting elastomeric material having a first set of properties on one side of the interface member and elastomeric material having a second set of properties into the mold on the side of the annular interface member opposite the one side and forming the grip;   (d) curing the grip in the mold; and,   (e) removing the grip from the mold and removing the core bar from the grip.   
     
     
         8 . The method of  claim 7 , wherein concurrently injecting includes one of (i) simultaneously injecting into the mold, and (ii) serially injecting into the mold. 
     
     
         9 . The method of  claim 7 , wherein disposing an annular interface member includes forming certain positive interlocking surfaces on the annular interface member on one of (i) the inner, and (ii) the outer periphery thereof. 
     
     
         10 . The method of  claim 7 , wherein concurrently injecting includes injecting elastomeric material with one of the first and second set of properties having a Mooney viscosity less than 38.