Abstract: A method of preparing an electrode for a secondary battery, including: (i) a process of preparing a current collector in which through-pores or holes are formed and an electrode slurry containing an electrode active material; (ii) a process of bringing a shielding film into close contact with one surface of the current collector to shield pores or holes on the one surface of the current collector; (iii) a process of coating the electrode slurry on the other surface of the current collector to which the shielding film is not attached, and primarily drying to prepare an interim electrode; (iv) a process of removing the shielding film from the interim electrode; and (v) a process of secondarily drying the interim electrode to prepare the electrode.

Abstract: Methods and devices for producing a stuffed animal pet urn are disclosed. According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the method includes receiving a plurality of photographic viewpoints of a pet body and creating a three-dimensional model based on the received plurality of photographic viewpoints, in which the three-dimensional model includes a hollow internal compartment. The method also includes producing a stuffed animal based on the three-dimensional model.

Abstract: A method and system for fabricating a part includes sectionalizing a computer-generated representation of a part into strata having an order, forming layers corresponding to the strata from sheet material, stacking at least two of the layers in the order, and joining the layers together. The method and system are suitable for producing a phase-change material container for a thermal energy harvesting device, for example.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a production line for making tangible products by layerwise manufacturing. The production line comprises (i) a first and a second building platform (102, 112) for carrying a tangible product, (ii) a deposition head (101) for providing a layer of construction material onto the building platforms, (iii) a conveyor (103) for conveying the building platforms in a conveying plane towards and away from the deposition head repeatedly, (iv) height adjustment means (107) to adjust the distance between the deposition head and the building platforms by displacing the building platforms relative to the conveyor in a direction (104) perpendicular to the conveying plane. The production line may further comprise a picking unit (106) for picking a product from the building platforms. The method allows making different tangible products in a continuous process by layerwise manufacturing.

Abstract: A method of providing a semi-custom patient interface device is disclosed. The semi-custom patient interface device is based upon both generic facial parameters and the facial parameters of a specific individual.

Abstract: Survey plat documents which are not susceptible to intentional alteration or damage due to environmental conditions are made using a photographic process. A transparent photographic film is exposed and photographically processed to capture the image of a plat drawing and then protected by applying clear laminates to each side of the film using a permanent, clear adhesive.

Abstract: A three-dimensional artwork device that provides a three-dimensional appearance for providing visual interest. The three-dimensional artwork includes a base layer having an upper surface having artwork thereon. One or more spacers are positioned on the base layer, and one or more art layers are positioned on the spacers. The art layers overhang the edges of the spacers so that the spacers are not visible to an observer. Multiple spacers and art layers can be stacked to provide additional depth. A plurality of LEDs is positioned on the base layer, and are preferably positioned adjacent to the spacers so that the LEDs are not visible by an observer.

Abstract: A method of constructing a three dimensional decorative object from a foil sheet and a fabric overlay is the subject of the invention. The method includes shaping the foil sheet into a three dimensional configuration, providing the foil sheet with an adhesive coating and adhering a fabric overlay to the foil. In another aspect of the invention the foil sheet has a fabric overlay adhered to one side and is utilized to form a three dimensional decorative object by shaping the sheet into the desired three dimensional object and then providing a decorative finish to the fabric side of the sheet. The method may include applying a layer of plaster on top of the fabric overlay. An article useful in constructing a three dimensional object is also encompassed by the invention. The article comprises a foil sheet having a fabric overlay adhered to one side.

Abstract: Method for fabricating a reinforcing coating for a part made of composite material. Pre-impregnated reinforcing fibers are used in the form of slivers and said slivers are laid on the part in two layers of longitudinal slivers by being placed thereon. This fabrication makes provision for using an angular orientation for the slivers of each layer respectively of 0° and of some other angle relative to said determined direction of the solid body for covering using an interlaced pattern type that gives layer crossing lines parallel to a longitudinal axis of the solid body for covering, which pattern type is selected to form interlacing patterns that limit the number of layer crossing lines along the longitudinal axis of the solid body for covering to a single line.

Abstract: A manufacturing method of a three-dimensional structure includes (a) placing a second porous sheet on top of a first porous sheet that has a predetermined external shape and at least part of which contains a first functional liquid, (b) bonding at least a range surrounded by a predetermined shape of the second porous sheet onto the first porous sheet, (c) processing the second porous sheet in the predetermined shape, and (d) after step (b), causing a second functional liquid to be contained in at least part of the range of the second porous sheet so that the first functional liquid and the second functional liquid are brought into contact through the first porous sheet and the second porous sheet.

Abstract: A camouflage pattern characterized by a textured background simulating the bark of a tree and a random pattern of tree limbs, branches, twigs and leaves superimposed upon the textured bark-like background. The limbs, branches and twigs are of dissimilar size or caliber, and extend in all different directions. The leaf elements are of differing size and color and have differing orientations. The overall look or visual impression conveyed by the unique camouflage pattern of the present invention has been found to simulate the natural look of a forest, or more particularly, the look of tree branches, limbs, twigs and leaves that have fallen onto a forest floor. The camouflage pattern of the present invention may be used on a wide variety of articles including clothing articles such as, for example, a baseball-style hat or cap.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an image in relief created by thermo, pressure or vacuum forming a sheet of printed, clear or opaque plastic, styrene, PVC, PET or any similar material capable of forming and holding a form against stacked levels of die cut (or pre-cut) materials (the tool or pattern), one on top of another. The tool is left inside the relief cavity to provide structure, making it durable and therefore commercially viable for one-off, personalized relief images.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for depicting interior details that are externally visible within to a substantially transparent three-dimensional object that is constructed by the selective attachment of a plurality of sheets one to another so as to form a stack of sheets where each sheet is cut along at least one contour line corresponding to the contour of the respective layer constituted by that particular sheet in the object.

Abstract: One aspect of the present invention concerns an ornamental tape configuration applied to a glass surface. The ornamental tape configuration includes first, second and third decorative tape strips applied to a glass surface. The second decorative tape strip is applied to the glass surface in a spaced apart relationship to the first decorative tape strip. The third decorative tape is applied to the glass surface between the first and second decorative tape strips such that edges of the third decorative tape strip overly the first and second decorative tape strips. Another aspect of the present invention is an elongated decorative tape for use between a pair of decorative tape strips. The decorative tape includes a decorative portion is supported by a base portion such that first and second decorative portion edges extend beyond first and second sides of the base portion.

Abstract: A reproduction process filming the painting or photograph to be reproduced; preparing the support onto which the image will be reproduced by formation onto the support of a base coat or film, normally obtained with paints; projecting the image to be reproduced onto the support; carrying out brush strokes of paint originating reliefs over the base coat, duplicating the ones in relief on the projected image; placing the treated support in the printing machine by centering the image projected on it in order for the brush strokes in relief to coincide with the corresponding ones of the projected image; printing the imitated image onto the support over the base coat and the reliefs; and treating the reproduced image with transparent coats.

Abstract: There is provided a method of producing a decorative plate in which a plurality of pieces (segments) for forming a decorative image are affixed to a predetermined position of a base plate on which a base design is depicted, comprising the steps of: providing marks (or signs) on the base design of the base plate in a close contact relation with each other, the marks each having the affixing order therein by means of shade (gradation) of a color of the image to be produced, and affixing the pieces (segments) to predetermined positions of the base plate according to the shade (gradation) of the color of the image. This permits an affixing operation in an accurate order by simply seeing only the color (gradation) on the base plate.

Abstract: A replica of fossil or the like can be handily manufactured using color prints obtained by photographing the fossil without preparing a mother mold. An overlaying replica is manufactured by preparing a plurality of prints, each having the same size, and obtained by photographing a collected specimen from given angles, cutting specimen parts to form a plurality of specimen prints, bonding said specimen prints by a solid paste one by one substantially in the same direction while they are overlaid on one another and kept at a given interval therebetween. A heaping replica is manufactured by preparing two prints, each having the same size and obtained by photographing a collected specimen from given angles, cutting specimen parts to form two specimen prints, molding a specimen dimensionally on the first specimen print by plastics using a spatula, and overlaying and bonding the second specimen print onto the molded three-dimensional specimen.

Abstract: A composite multifunctional microstructure which comprises at least one functionalizing material associated with a microstructure wherein the microstructure comprises a layer of relief forming material preferably comprising an at least partially UV curable relief forming polymer having a plurlaity of relief features formed therein to provide at least one retaining feature and wherein the functionalizing material is deposited within and substantially or partially fills or lines the at least one retaining feature, method for the preparation thereof.

Abstract: An article comprising an intaglio three-dimensional solid molded sculpture as an accurate model of an actual subject having selected features at least one of which is proportionally modified to have a proportion: ratio other than the proportion:ratio of the corresponding selected feature of the actual subject of 1:1 taken as a measurement ratio. Observation of the sculpture, under illumination, by a moving observer evoke, to said observer, a virtual illusory solid appearing reproduction of the actual subject, the modified feature of which appears to follow the moving observer. The preferred modification of the proportion:ratio being 1.3:1; the preferred range being between 0.8:1 and 1.8:1 as a measurement ratio.

Abstract: The invention is a method for making a reverse intaglio decorative or jewelry item and the product made by the method. Any suitable graphical image is scanned into digital memory. The image is changed from two-dimensional to three-dimensional by adding contour to the original image using appropriate graphics software. The contour is scaled for the production of first and second slightly different sizes. Both sized images are converted to a computer numeric control dataset for controlling a milling machine, which cuts the first contour into the underside of a cabochon of stone or crystal and the second contour into a die stamp tool. An insert is die-stamped into metal, said insert having a convex surface that matches the contour of the first contour milled into the cabochon. The insert is painted and mounted into the cabochon to form the reverse intaglio. Suitable inserts may also be produced by molding and casting rather than machining methods.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a sign consisting of an alloy substrate encapsulated in a porcelain coating which can be selectively applied to different areas of the substrate. The coating provides a smooth transitional region on graphic indicia of the sign to make the sign impervious to vandalism, fire and dirt. There is also provided a process of selectively applying a second coat of porcelain to the existing coating to only those elevated portions elevated or Braille portions of the substrate.

Abstract: An apparatus for automatically creating a simulated mosaic controllably discharges tile pieces onto plate material and secures the tile pieces in place such that the plates with the tile pieces are freestanding permitting the plates themselves to be an ordered arrangement of sections of the mosaic once cemented to the substrate. Many different forms may be had for the plate material, including ones that are pressure or heat activatable to bond with the tile pieces or ones that are mechanically connectable.

Abstract: A decorative pin having a surface made of metal for displaying a high quality color photographic image having a high degree of image resolution reproduced directly onto a metal surface and a method for reproducing a high quality photographic image directly onto a metal surface are disclosed. The decorative pin of the present invention comprises a base member made of brass having an upper surface for displaying a photographic image that is reproduced directly onto the upper surface and a lower surface having means for removably attaching the decorative pin to a garment.

Abstract: A method is provided for producing a composite work from a single two-dimensional work having an image thereon. A flat backing member is provided having generally the same shape and size as the two-dimensional work. The work and the backing member are bonded together to form a work piece. The work piece is cut to define a geometrically shaped center section and a separate perimeter section, thereby breaking the image of the two-dimensional work regardless of individual sculptural components of the work so that each of the sections displays the respective portion of the broken image. The center section and border section are then assembled such that the continuity of the image formed by the sections is broken.

Abstract: A sculpture provided with a concavity carrying a relief negative impression of a formation representing a true object, the formation having selected features of proportion:ratio selectively of height:width, of length:width and of depth:width different (1.3:1) compared to the corresponding proportion:ratio of the true object as 1:1. Observing the sculpture under a light source while moving provides a three-dimensional virtual illusion where the sculpture appears to move in the direction of movement of the observer, like following the observer.

Abstract: A process for producing a multi-layer sheet material having a refractive foil layer therein. The multi-layer sheet material providing an image having depth, dimension, contrasts, glow and brilliance.

Abstract: A photo-setting resin is shaped into a three-dimensional resin model by scanning successive resin solution layers of a photo-setting resin solution with a radiation beam to form a stack of scanned set layers of photo-setting resin, each of the successive resin solution layers having a shaped region of an isometric section. The radiation beam is scanned along a contour line of the shaped region to set the shaped region along the contour line, and scanned in a raster scanning mode to set the shaped region inwardly of the contour line. Specifically, the radiation beam is scanned along a first line which is spaced a first distance inwardly from the contour line thereby to set the shaped region along the first line, and the radiation beam is scanned inwardly of a second line which is spaced a second distance inwardly from the contour line thereby to set the shaped region inwardly of the second line. The first distance is smaller than the second distance.

Abstract: A system and method for manufacturing an article that is formed by the incremental buildup of layers on a work surface contains a material deposition station to deposit the layers. In addition, a plurality of processing stations are employed. Each processing station performs a separate function such that when the functions are performed in series, a layer of the article is produced and is prepared for the deposition of the next layer. An article transfer apparatus repetitively moves the work surface and any layers formed thereon selectively among the deposition station and the processing stations. The article transfer apparatus continues to move between the processing stations until each layer is processed and a completely manufactured article is produced.

Abstract: A method of fabricating model trees and plants for decorating a diorama. The model is made from stacking foliage disks on a telescoping dowel, which functions as an imitation trunk. First, an outline of leaves and branches is drawn within a panel on paper. Next, the outline is shaded in to obtain a silhouette thereof. Numerous foliage disks can be clustered on a single panel to conserve space and to facilitate mass production. The silhouette is photographed to obtain a reverse image. Then through photolithography and etching, a metal template of the reverse image is made. The template is overlaid on a wood veneer having a kraft paper backing, and is laser cut. After laser cutting, each foliage disk can be separated from the veneer sheet. An assembly hole is provided in each foliage disk to facilitate attachment to the dowel. In an alternative embodiment, the trunk can be fashioned from braided wire with one end that is unraveled and flared outwards.

Abstract: A system and method for producing a three-dimensional object (10, 70) from coordinates generated on a computer machine (12) is disclosed wherein the object has improved dimensional accuracy. Control signals (20b) are generated for controlling a servo (20) that controls a reaction or interaction of material (20a) at the coordinate points to form the object while a second servo (22) serves to build up a three-dimensional support system (42) in response to support control signals (22b). Support control signals (22b) are generated at the same time the coordinate points of the design are generated to specify strategic points of the object at which a support environment need be placed in order to insure the dimensional accuracy of the object avoiding warpage or other dimensional distortion. As a support environment, a series of webs (50, 52, 54) or columns (76), or encapsulation (44, 92) may be provided for providing a support environment for the object.

Abstract: A system and method for constructing a three-dimensional object (10) from a design created on a CAD machine (14) is disclosed which includes a support (B) which may be indexed along two coordinate axes (X, Y) and a movable dispensing head (A) which indexes along a Z-axis. A fluent material (54) is dispensed or extruded from head (A) and as it is dispensed, the fluent material is subjected to a treatment by treatment sources (D) which cause the fluent material to transform into a fixed solidified state in the form of a three-dimensional object. Fluent material (54) may be a polymeric material which is solidified by an energy beam of ultraviolet light (56) upon dispensing. A shield (E) is provided to shield the dispensing head (A) and strand of material (54) so that the material is treated at the proper time and location to cause it to solidify properly to form the three-dimensional object. In accordance with the method, indexing takes place in desired steps so a dimensionally accurate object is formed.

Abstract: A new process for producing a reproduction of a painting or the like wherein the reproduction has a relief surface which imitates the relief surface of the painting or the like. Heat and pressure are applied simultaneously to an assembly consisting of a mold of the painting, a colored sheet for coloring the reproduction and a substrate to retain the reproduction. Subsequent to this step, shock cooling is applied. The reproduction thus produced does not suffer from the rebound effect of the prior art and good color integrity is maintained.

Abstract: An imaging method and apparatus produces an integral three-dimensional object from a multiplicity of cross sectional portions of the object. The cross sectional portions correspond to photohardened portions of contiguous photoformed precursor sheets of a photohardenable liquid composition.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for constructing a three-dimensional surface of predetermined shape and color from a length of sheet material. A series of color profiles are made along one side of the sheet material in sequence, each color profile corresponding in shape and color to the shape and color of a different cross-section of the surface to be constructed. A coating of a pressure sensitive adhesive is then applied to one side of the sheet material. Areas on the sheet material outside of the profiles are then removed and discarded so as to leave a series of unconnected planar elements, each planar element having an edge shape or outline corresponding to a cross-section of the surface with the color profile itself forming at least a color border or margin on the surface of its respective planar element around the edge. The planar elements are then stacked one on top of the other in proper alignment and sequence and individually laminated together to produce the desired three-dimensional surface.

Abstract: A three-dimensional lifelike representation of the head portion of a real life subject formed by applying flexible sheet fabric material bearing an imprint of the head portion of a real life subject in the form of a computer-generated printed representation of the head of the subject to a computer-selected substrate structure of configuration and size matched to the printed representation of the head of the subject. The printed representation may take the form of an azimuthal-type group of connected sector photographic projections, a warped photographic image, or a panoramic photographic image of the subjects head portion with the flexible sheet fabric material being of a type capable of conforming to the substrate structure.

Abstract: A new process for producing a reproduction of a painting or the like wherein the reproduction has a relief surface which imitates the relief surface of the painting or the like. Heat and pressure are applied simultaneously to an assembly consisting of a mold of the painting, a colored sheet for coloring the reproduction and a substrate to retain the reproduction. Subsequent to this step, shock cooling is applied. The reproduction thus produced does not suffer from the rebound effect of the prior art and good color integrity is maintained.

Abstract: Three dimensional objects or models, such as three dimensional images or shapes stored in a computer, are generated as real models by addition of material to a base, such as with photo-hardenable liquid, or by removal of material from an initially oversized mass. Optical feedback is employed to monotor the actual condition of the model being formed, at each work site. The condition of the model at the work site, e.g. the presence or absence of material, is fed back to the machine or building tool, or to a computer controlling the tool. On the basis of such monitoring and feedback, decisions are made whether or not to perform more work at any particular work site. In this way, the actual three dimensional model being constructed is made to conform substantially to stored information relative to the desired dimensions of the model. In a preferred embodiment, models are produced by ablating a mass of small spheres held together by a relatively weak wax or cement.

Abstract: An improved method for producing composite structures is disclosed. In accordance with the method, a first computer representation of the manner in which a plurality of plies are to be cut from a common fibrous material is provided and the representation used to cut the plies from the common material. A second computer representation of the manner in which the plurality of plies are combined to form the composite structure is used to control an ink-jet marking system to sequentially mark a partial composite with the location of a ply. After the partial composite is marked, the ply is manually placed and its placement inspected. The partial composite is then marked, using the ink-jet marking gantry, with the location of the next ply.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for forming an integral three-dimensional object from laminations of the same or gradually varying shape. The apparatus includes a supply station, a work station for forming a material into a plurality of laminations for the three-dimensional object, a control station for directing the operation of the work station, an assembling station for stacking the laminations in sequence into the three-dimensional object, and bonding the laminations to complete the formation of the three-dimensional object.

Abstract: A three-dimensional image, which can be the face of a person, or other image having: a base, a picture module formed of flexible picture material bearing thereon a picture-making coating which latter is imprinted thereon in duplication from a photograph by known methods, the picture-module being attached to the forward side of the base and such forward side having a shape complementary to the picture coating as is accomplished by the method of this invention which is sculpting the material which makes the forward side of the base while such material is flexible and before heating it, the shaping of the moldable material being done by pressure exerted on and through the module as guided visually by the picture-making coating which latter can be accomplished by human sculpturing skill whereby the picture module is also sculpted into a new shape and complementary to the sculpted base.

Abstract: A method of creating a three-dimensional sculptured painting, involving the use of a sand and white glue mixture spread over the entire painting canvas, and scored, built-up and sculptured over desired areas of the painting to create not only a physically three-dimensional product, but also providing a significantly enhanced optical three-dimensional effect for the viewer after application of the final paint layers.

Abstract: Flat pattern equivalents for curved surfaces may be generated by developing a regular network of quadrilateral grid elements resembling a fish net which is mathematically smoothed onto the curved surface. Surface features such as boundaries and cutouts are mapped onto the network. The network is then transformed onto a flat mapping plane to form a grid in a manner analagous to smoothing a fish net mesh onto a flat surface. The surface features are then transformed to the flat surface grid.Individual plies or parts are then cut based upon the flat patterns. The plies or parts will conform to the curved surface exactly.

Abstract: A framed, multi-faceted, appearing, colored picture, or design, such as of a spray of flowers is formed by a frame, having a front surface, or rim, in a single flat plane, the frame enclosing the colored picture and the picture being divided, in its entirety, into at least two, and preferably not more than about twenty, flat planar surfaces, each angularly disposed to the other and angularly disposed to the plane of the rim. Adjacent such surfaces meet along angular elongated ridges and angular elongated valleys to provide a desired multi-faceted appearance to the colored flower, or other, picture. The angularly disposed, flat planar surfaces are each of different outline and different area to avoid uniformity.

Abstract: A superimposed foil embossing method using both opaque foils and transparent pastel foils. A first flat stamping die transfers a first foil, which can be either an opaque foil or a transparent foil, from a first carrier ribbon to the paper stock. The first foil is transferred by the application of heat and pressure. A second flat stamping die transfers a transparent foil from a second carrier ribbon to the stock so that it is superimposed over the first foil. Since each foil is only transferred from the ribbon to the paper in the areas where the die touches the paper, the pastel foil can be applied directly to the paper and also superimposed over areas of the first foil. Thus, if the first foil is an opaque foil, the color combinations possible include the paper stock color, the first foil color, the altered color of the paper having the transparent foil thereon, and the altered color of the first foil with the transparent pastel foil embossed thereon.

Abstract: This invention comprises a process for molding a three dimensional decorative article where cored out or raised portions extend to a depth of at least 0.6 centimeter, said process comprising generating electronically a line drawing of said article and electronically displaying the drawing; photographing said drawing to form a photographic transparency; positioning said transparency over a layer of a liquid photopolymer having a depth greater than 0.6 centimeter; exposing said photopolymer through said transparency to actinic light to set the photopolymer; and removing the liquid from the set photopolymer to form a three dimensional article having the appearance of said drawing.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods for making laminate patterns for a resin matrix composite structural component. A sheet of paper (28) is temporarily adhered to a model (26) of the structural component. Pen (13) is positioned on paper (28) with spindle (24) touching the model surface opposite the pen. The pen and spindle are moved along the path that maintains the aforementioned contacts. The resulting line (31) traced on paper (28) is a model constant-thickness locus and provides a pattern for a single lamination of resin-impregnated fabric. The steps are repeated to make other patterns and each time the steps are repeated the distance between the tracer and the spindle is changed to correspond to the thickness of a lamination.

Abstract: A laminated multi-layer identification card comprising a plurality of individual layers connected to one another and having at least one outer surface which is directly contactable. At least one additional outer layer is laminated to the outer surface and covers a portion of the outer surface. The outer layer has a surface relief pattern in the form of intaglio printing which is directly accessible. The outer laminated layer may be made of paper and the remaining exposed outer surface not covered by the outer layer may be given a texture similar to that of paper so that the entire surface of the card feels like a paper-rough surface.

Abstract: A sequence of identical planar maps having intervals with contour lines drawn thereon are cut so that from each map a section defined by a pair of spaced contour lines of selected intervals are formed. The cut sections are then superimposed one upon the other in the order of the contour lines until the relief map is formed.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing model statues or profile pictures wherein a base shape or body and various components are made from a flexible material, such as synthetic resins, clay, gypsum, wood or rubber. The various components are glued in place on the body. A thin covering of cloth or paper is then placed over the body with the glued components to apply an even finish to the surface of the body.

Abstract: The invention concerns a process for the reproduction of oil paintings or similarly surface-textured images by use of a relief form transferred from an original and a smooth thermoplastic color photo film that is imprinted corresponding to the original, with the film, together with a reenforcing back ply, being laid onto the relief form in fitting alignment and with the film and reenforcing ply being deformed by heating to correspond to the surface texture of the original.