Overmolding system gives classy twist to upscale mouse
Canadian Plastics
For an eye-catching, stylish addition to its high-profile computer mouse portfolio, Microsoft Corp. recently turned to the EXO overmolding system to create a wireless mouse unlike any other on the market, with black leather integrated into the cas...
For an eye-catching, stylish addition to its high-profile computer mouse portfolio, Microsoft Corp. recently turned to the EXO overmolding system to create a wireless mouse unlike any other on the market, with black leather integrated into the casing.
The black leather Wireless IntelliMouse Explorer is the first high-volume application of EXO overmolding, a patented technology from Inclosia Solutions that allows the use of real fabrics and leathers in portable consumer electronic device enclosures.
“For the ergonomic shape of this mouse, the fabric part of the device was a non-symmetrical 3-D shape, which was a significant design and manufacturing challenge,” said Tom Tarnowski, global business manager, Inclosia Solutions. “The mouse’s organic shape demanded a precision-fit, complex part, and the design had to be sustainable in high-volume production.”
Launched in early 2003, EXO overmolding allows virtually any type of fabric — leather, suede or denim — to be incorporated in the covering of an electronic device at a competitive price. The EXO system molds materials into the product in a two-step process that maintains the fabric’s look and feel and offers durability without compromising device functionality.
The technology enables manufacturers to quickly shift between colors and fabrics — without tooling changes — for simple and effective product differentiation.
Inclosia Solutions is a business unit of The Dow Chemical Company.
Dow Chemical Co. 800-441-4369
