Abstract: A spray system and method for selectively applying fluids onto workpieces traveling on a conveyor. A support frame proximate the conveyor supports plural platforms sequentially arranged in the direction of workpiece travel on the conveyor, each platform being above and extending across the conveyor width. Plural carriers are sequentially disposed on each platform across the conveyor width. Each carrier has a nozzle module connected to a source of fluid, a lateral drive enabling bi-directional movement of the carrier across the respective platform and a swing drive for rotating the nozzle module about a swing axis orthogonal to the direction of workpiece travel. A programmable controller coordinates the lateral and rotational orientation of nozzle modules of each carrier and the flow of fluid through the respective nozzle modules to achieve a desired pattern of fluid application onto workpieces traveling on the conveyor.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for making a leather laminate having a textured surface, and leather laminates made by this method. The laminates comprise a leather layer bonded to a reinforcing fabric with an adhesive, the reinforcing fabric providing strength to the laminate. The method involves dry milling the laminate in humid air, during which the reinforcing fabric constrains the laminate causing the textured surface to form.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method for manufacturing a molded product including real wood capable of forming a real wood layer on the surface of an injected molded product by using an IMD film provided with a real wood stacked body. According to the method, it is possible to manufacture the IMD film provided with the real wood stacked body on the release film, and to form the real wood layer on the surface of the injected molded product without breakage by using the IMD film.

Abstract: The invention involves an exposed aggregate architectural coating to be applied to existing concrete structures. The invention includes a method of preparing and roughening an existing concrete structure surface, mixing the components of the exposed aggregate architectural coating, applying the coating to the existing concrete structure, spreading the coating to a thickness of one-fourth of an inch or thinner, using a trowel, gauge rake, or other method to smoothen the coating, allowing the coating to cure, applying a surface retarder once the exposed aggregate architectural coating has stiffened, allowing the surface retarder to cure for twenty-four hours, and washing the surface with a pressure-washer to remove the surface retarder, then “acid-washing” the surface to remove residue and create a desired texture. The resulting applied exposed aggregate architectural coating will have an exposed aggregate finish that is durable and suitable for high vehicular and pedestrian traffic areas.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for the automated decoration of a building board, comprising at least one smoothing compound layer and preferably at least one colour coat. The method comprises the steps of smoothing and decorating the building board, wherein the smoothing includes the steps of (i) calibrating the building board to a nominal thickness, so that a surface of the building board has a height difference of at most 1 mm, (ii) applying a layer of a smoothing compound, (iii) pressing the smoothing compound into the surface structures of the building board, and (iv) recalibrating to the nominal thickness. Preferably, a plurality of smoothing compound layers are pressed into a calibrated surface of the building board and partially ground away again. The method is particularly well suited for the production of fire-resisting building boards.

Abstract: Provided is a method for decorating a kitchen item by means of mechanical treatment in order to produce a decoration. The mechanical treatment involves removing and/or displacing part of a thermostable decorative composition by means of pressure and moving a tool or a compressed air jet over the surface of the decorative layer.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of producing decorative paper which is coated with at least one ink-fixing layer, which is printable and which can be impregnated with a thermosetting resin, in order to produce a high- or low-pressure decorative laminate. The inventive method comprises the following steps consisting in: (a) producing a base sheet of decorative paper using paper-making means; and (b) coating at least one of the faces of the base paper sheet with said at least one ink-fixing layer, by means of curtain coating. The invention also relates to high- or low-pressure decorative laminates comprising such decorative paper.

Abstract: A method for creating a wood like appearance on a synthetic shutter using a sales client device, a network, computer instructions for creating a work order, a tray with scannable tray identifier to hold a shutter, a production client device connected to the network with computer instructions for applying a base coat, a glaze, and a top coat with spray treatment devices to the shutter as it automatically moves on a conveyer system. Scanning a scannable tray identifier with a plurality of sensors to link the tray identifier to the work order and to authenticate and validate the location of the tray on the conveyor system, or to initiate an alerting device. The method uses temperature control environments to control humidity and heating of the shutter while spraying, drying and UV curing.

Abstract: A camouflage system includes a layer of an adhesion promoter so paint will adhere to the surface of an article and a first layer of paint applied to the surface on top of the adhesion promoter. A second layer of paint of a different color is applied to a portion of the first layer of paint. The second layer of paint may be in the form of a design, symbol, brand, logo, mark, and/or name. A multi-color layer is then applied to the surface of the article over the layers of paint. The multi-color layer may be a camouflage ink pattern. A clear coat may be applied over the multi-color layer. The multi-color layer affects the visual appearance of the second layer of paint. The second layer of paint may be visible at one viewing angle and may be less visible or non-visible at a different viewing angle.

Abstract: Systems and methods for allowing a user to create a texture on a substrate while printing in line with inks are disclosed. An image of a desired texture may be provided, and the contrast levels may be adjusted to make the dark areas very dark and the light areas very light. The adjusted image of the texture may be provided to a press as one or more texture image layers. A color image layer may also be provided to the press. The press may print the texture image layers on the substrate first, allowing the ink to build up to create the texture. The final color image layer may then be printed on top of the texture image layers. The printed substrate may be folded to create a final image product, such as a gallery wrap for hanging on a wall.

Abstract: Finishing set for a floor covering, whereby this finishing set at least consists of, on the one hand, a finishing profile and, on the other hand, a holder with at least an attachment portion for attaching said finishing profile at the holder, characterized in that the holder comprises an underlay portion, which at choice can or cannot be provided underneath the remaining portion of the holder as well as a stop-forming positioning portion.

Abstract: A method for creating a wood like appearance on a synthetic component using a sales client device, a network, computer instructions for creating a work order, a tray with scannable tray identifier to hold a synthetic component, a production client device connected to the network with computer instructions for applying a base coat, a glaze, and a top coat with spray treatment devices to the synthetic component as it automatically moves on a conveyer system a portion of which is connected to the production client device. Scanning a scannable tray identifier with a plurality of sensors to link the tray identifier to the work order and to authenticate and validate the location of the tray on the conveyor system, or to initiate an alerting device. The method uses temperature control environments to simultaneously control humidity and heating of the synthetic component while spraying, drying and UV curing.

Abstract: The invention relates to the use of a super-slippery thin-layer film or coating for enhancing the lubrication capacity of a part to be subjected to great friction and wear. The film of the invention for improving the lubrication capacity of parts to be subjected to important friction and wear includes at least: a layer (3) of a hard material selected from titanium nitride (TiN), chromium nitride (CrN), titanium carbide (TiC), chromium carbide (CrC), tungsten carbide (W2C) and tungsten carbide-carbon composites (WC/C), alumina (AI2O3), molybdenum sulphide (MoS2), and materials of the hydrogenated amorphous carbon type (a: CH), the layer including on one surface thereof a series of dips and protrusions; and a layer (4) of an oleophilic material. The invention can particularly be used in the field of mechanics.

Abstract: A golf club has a head including a base layer and a compounded transfer layer. The base layer has a coupling face. The compounded transfer layer is formed on the coupling face of the base layer. The compounded transfer layer has a dye layer and a protection layer. The dye layer is sandwiched between the base layer and the protection layer.

Abstract: The invention relates to articles, e.g., sheet metal, comprising surface coatings that have the appearance of polished stone and methods for making such articles.

Abstract: Methods of producing an ombré finish for materials may comprise applying a stain to the surface of a material in a first concentration toward a first part of said surface and in a second concentration toward a second part of said surface, blending said stain from said first part to said second part to create a gradual transition in concentration, and sealing said surface. Said methods may also comprise applying a stain substantially uniformly to the surface of a material, removing said stain from said surface so as to create a gradual transition in concentration of said stain, and sealing said surface. Said methods may further comprise the steps of comparing the color of said material to a target color and toning said material until said color of said material matches said target color.

Abstract: The invention provides a polyacrylic-based aerosol top coat composition for rapid and economical application of decorative faux finishes on architectural surfaces. The composition dries rapidly, permits further texturing before it dries if desired, is esthetically superior to faux finish top coats made by methods in the prior art, and when dry provides a top coat that is mechanically tough. The invention is particularly useful for providing wood grain faux finishes, and for creating three-dimensional wood-like effects on a two-dimensional non-wood surface. The invention further provides a method wherein a base coat is applied directly to a surfactant-free surface of any of several architectural materials such as bare vinyl, after which the top coat composition is sprayed on reiteratively as needed. Other coatings such as primer coats and protective overcoatings are optional.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a paint finish that incorporates decorative effects such as a laser effect, a splash effect, or a cloud effect, and to a paint process to obtain a paint finish that incorporates decorative effects.

Abstract: A method for producing a building board. The method includes applying synthetic-resin layers to the top side and/or the bottom side of a support board made of a wood material or a mixture of wood material and plastic. The layered structure is compressed under the impact of pressure and temperature. At least one of the synthetic-resin layers expands during compressing.

Abstract: A process for making a faux finish with a two-part reactive system of materials includes providing a base material liquid of Poly Vinyl Acetate resin and water mixed with a dry powder functional filler and adding an activator liquid to the base material liquid. The activating liquid is a mixture of water and muriate of potash or boric acid product.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for making an acoustic transducer. In one possible embodiment, a rigid inner shell is provided with a conductive exterior surface. Masking material is applied onto a first location on the conductive exterior surface of the rigid inner shell. Piezoelectric material is deposited over the conductive exterior surface of the rigid inner shell and the masking material. Conductive material is deposited onto the piezoelectric material. The masking material is removed. A first signal lead is attached to the first location on the conductive exterior surface of the rigid inner shell. A second signal lead is attached to the conductive material.

Abstract: A building board, in particular of wooden material, plastic or a mixture of wooden material and plastic, with a top side and an underside and side edges. A polyurethane layer is applied at least on the top side. A decorative layer imitating a natural material is applied onto the polyurethane layer.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of decorative arts and crafts and to the field of jewelry making. The present invention provides a method for making a decorative ornament comprising the steps of providing a transparent, semi-transparent, translucent, or semi-opaque substrate; and applying a colorant to the substrate, wherein the colorant also acts as a sealant. The present invention provides a method for making a decorative ornament comprising the steps of providing a transparent, semi-transparent, translucent, or semi-opaque substrate; and applying a colorant to the substrate, wherein the colorant also acts as a sealant and an additional sealant is applied. The present invention also provides a method for making a decorative ornament comprising the steps of providing a transparent, semi-transparent, translucent, or semi-opaque substrate; applying a first colorant to the substrate; and applying sealant to seal the colorant.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for creating an attractive and colorful decorative pattern or finish utilizing a water based polyurethane paint with specific chemical additives, and a removable taping system that prevents unsightly streaking when applying the coating on floors and walls. To achieve the effect of a colorful decorative pattern a water based acrylic pastel or white primer base coat is applied to a substrate by brush, roller, or spray-gun. A removable tape is applied to form barrier lines. A pigmented water based polyurethane dispersion containing specified additives is applied, thus chemically forming a pattern when applied. The tape is removed after the pigmented coating has dried, and a clear protective topcoat is applied over the patterned coating.

Abstract: Decorative finishes and processes for making same are described. The finishes contain a a vinyl polymer, water, a glycol, and activator and optionally color and a functional filler. The finishes are applied to a substrate to produce a finish that may be modified following application.

Abstract: A method for providing a roller assembly for producing a decorative pattern on a wood material surface, wherein the roller assembly comprises at least one decorative paint roller and at least one structured lacquer application or embossing roller, and the structured lacquer application or embossing roller and the decorative paint roller are matched to create a structured decorative pattern, includes the steps of applying first the decorative paint roller and then the structured lacquer application roller on the wood material surface. The method uses at least two different decorative paint rollers for creating two different decorative patterns are matched with a structured lacquer application or embossing roller.

Abstract: A process for making a faux finish with a two-part reactive system of materials includes providing a base material liquid of Poly Vinyl Acetate resin and water mixed with a dry powder functional filler and adding an activating liquid to the base material liquid. The activating liquid is a mixture of water and muriate of potash or boric acid product.

Abstract: A pigmented fiberglass door and a process for finishing a molded, wood grain fiberglass door is provided. The pigmentation process comprises the sequential steps of priming the door surface; painting the door surface; staining the door surface while removing stain from raised grain edges of the door; and, applying a clear, protective coat to the door. This process has been found to provide a painted and/or stained door which has an appearance indistinguishable from a wooden door.

Abstract: The present invention provides a process for recycling waste FRP which can simply and effectively reuse waste FRP. This process comprises the steps of mixing a cellulose fine powder derived from wood, a resin powder, and an FPR powder derived from waste FRP, to obtain a mixture; and melting and molding the mixture into a given shape to prepare a molded resin product containing 10-65% by weight of said cellulose fine powder, 25-40% by weight of said resin powder, and 10-30% by weight of said FPR powder on the basis of the mixture.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for the production of components with a pre-determined surface appearance, in particular for front panels of kitchen units, whereby the components are printed with a pre-determined pattern by means of a printing method which may be programmed corresponding to the appearance achieved. The invention further relates to a device for the production of said components and a system in which groups of said components are produced.

Abstract: A kit and a process for using it to impart wood grain appearances are provided. According to the method, a base coat comprising an opaque, pigmented, water-based paint emulsion is applied to a wood-grain textured substrate and dried. Then, a pigmented, water-based graining coat (most preferably a crosslinkable urethane/acrylic) is applied sparingly, preferably by use of a dampened foam/sponge pad or sprayed, in an amount sufficient to overcoat the base coat and color at least a majority of texture recesses in the substrate and drying. According to the kit aspect of the invention, the kit will comprise: an opaque, pigmented, water-based paint emulsion; a pigmented, water-based graining coat emulsion, optionally packaged in a bottle, such as one with a spray. Optionally, the kit can include an applicator or surface cleaner, a scraper, brush, cloth, sponge, or combination. The process of the invention can be completed within 3 to 12 hours at temperatures ranging from just over 55° F. up to over 85° F.

Abstract: A kit and a process for using it to impart wood grain appearances are provided. According to the method, an opaque, pigmented, water-based paint/stain emulsion is applied to a wood-grain textured substrate and dried. Then, a pigmented, water-based graining coat water-based graining coat (most preferably a self-crosslinked urethane/acrylic) is applied sparingly, preferably by spraying from a small bottle, in an amount sufficient to color at least a majority of texture recesses in the substrate and drying. According to the kit aspect of the invention, the kit will comprise: an opaque, pigmented, water-based paint/stain emulsion; a pigmented, water-based graining coat emulsion, packaged in a spray bottle. Optionally, the kit can include a surface cleaner, a scraper, brush and/or cloth.

Abstract: A process for imparting a simulated patina appearance to a copper substrate, and a substrate having that appearance. A colorant having the desired initial patina color tone is employed to produce a non-continuous layer of colorant on the surface of a copper substrate by roll coating. The appearance of patination of the desired tone is created by interspersed spots of colorant with the remaining portion of the substrate being exposed for natural patination. The interspersed spots of colorant may be produced by screen printing, by spattering, as by spraying, or by mechanical removal of colorant after application to the substrate surface, or a combination.

Abstract: A pigmented fiberglass door and a process for finishing a molded, wood grain fiberglass door is provided. The pigmentation process comprises the sequential steps of priming the door surface; painting the door surface; staining the door surface while removing stain from raised grain edges of the door; and, applying a clear, protective coat to the door. This process has been found to provide a painted and/or stained door which has an appearance indistinguishable from a wooden door.

Abstract: Method for high definition printing to be dip transferred to a three-dimensional article comprises four color process printing a digital image from a digital image file onto a water soluble polymer film with solvent based ink to form a printed water soluble film and dip transfer printing the solvent based ink image through transcription on the surface of the article. The method is suitable for printing three-dimensional articles of a variety of shapes with high definition, photographic-quality images. The method is particularly suitable for decorating articles with complex images such as camouflage patterns.

Abstract: A full-grained milled napa leather is provided on its grain side with a dressing formed from a solidified plastics dispersion. Required leather properties are still ensured and the production process is substantially simplified and more economical. First, the leather, such as cowhide, is subjected on a mechanically untreated grain side to a milling process for at least two hours. This results in a typical napa structure with a natural pebbled grain. Then, a polyurethane dispersion is applied to the grain side containing pigment particles and optionally further additives. Then the hide is allowed to dry. The solidified dispersion forming the dressing has a thickness of, preferably, from 0.05 mm to 0.07 mm.

Abstract: A process and equipment for producing multi-color concrete products, including architectural concrete blocks, concrete bricks, modular concrete products that are suitable for use in landscaping applications, such as retaining wall blocks, concrete pavers, and concrete slabs. The invention includes a spray mechanism that sprays liquid pigment onto concrete discharged from a hopper. The concrete then proceeds to a blending mechanism which blends the pigment into the concrete to produce a multi-color concrete blend. The concrete blend is then used to produce multi-colored concrete products.

Abstract: A method for applying wear resistant material to a substrate, the substrate comprised of material with a substrate coefficient of thermal expansion, the method including applying the wear resistant material to the substrate with application apparatus, the wear resistant material having a wear resistant material coefficient of thermal expansion, the substrate coefficient of thermal expansion within 15% of the wear resistant material coefficient of thermal expansion.

Abstract: A kit and a process for using it to impart wood grain appearances are provided. According to the method, an opaque, pigmented, water-based paint/stain emulsion is applied to a wood-grain textured substrate and dried. Then, a pigmented, water-based graining coat water-based graining coat (most preferably a self-crosslinked urethane/acrylic) is applied sparingly, preferably by spraying from a small bottle, in an amount sufficient to color at least a majority of texture recesses in the substrate and drying. According to the kit aspect of the invention, the kit will comprise: an opaque, pigmented, water-based paint/stain emulsion; a pigmented, water-based graining coat emulsion, packaged in a spray bottle. Optionally, the kit can include a surface cleaner, a scraper, brush and/or cloth.

Abstract: A steering wheel rim for an automobile is manufactured by attaching a masking tape to a boundary portion of the steering wheel rim, marking a conjunction line using a blade in a middle portion the masking tape and detaching a lower half portion of the masking tape, covering an upper portion of the masking tape with a protective masking tape, performing transfer printing on a surface lower than the conjunction line, cleaning and drying the transfer-printed surface, and removing the masking tape and the protective masking tape. Another masking tape is attached to a first transfer printing boundary portion of the steering wheel rim, a separation line is marked using a blade at a position about 0.05-0.2 mm lower than the conjunction line and removing the upper half of the masking tape is removed, the lower portion of the masking tape is covered with another protective masking tape, and transfer printing is performed on an upper surface above the conjunction line.

Abstract: A method for creating a pattern by applying varying concentrations of pigment in water to a synthetic fabric and allowing the pigment to bleed and preferably to reverse bleed. A pleated window shade having an Aurora Borealis like pattern is also provided. The preferred method comprises the steps of stretching a pleated synthetic fabric window shade vertically, applying pigment in water to the surface of the fabric and allowing the pigment to bleed, then inverting the fabric so that the pigment in solvent bleeds in the opposite direction. Optionally, the method further includes at least one of the steps of applying the solvent, such as for example water, to the pigmented surface before inverting or after inverting thereby inducing additional bleeding, blending, and dilution of the pigment in the wetted area.

Abstract: A glass fiber wall covering is made by sequential application of a chemical dispersion, a hydrophobic coating to selectively create an image for painted effects, and a second image coating which created plastic volumetric images.

Abstract: A process for the manufacturing of surface elements (1) which comprises a decorative upper layer (2) and a supporting core (5). A supporting core (5) with a desired format is manufactured and provided with an upper side (1′) and a lower side (4). The upper side (1′) of the supporting core (5) is provided with a décor , by for example printing, which décor (2′) is positioned after a predetermined fixed point on the supporting core (5). The upper side (1′) of the supporting core (5) is provided with a protecting, at least partly translucent, wear layer (2″) by for example spray coating, roller coating, curtain coating and immersion coating or by being provided with one or more sheets of &agr;-cellulose impregnated with thermosetting resin or lacquer.

Abstract: A surface decorated article in which a surface is entirely or partially decorated with a coating of a first and second glitter paints each using a flaky glitter material as a pigment, wherein first paint particles at a low viscosity with a relatively high solvent dilution ratio formed by coarsely particulating a glitter paint and second paint particles at a high viscosity with a relatively low solvent dilution ratio formed by coarsely particulating a glitter paint are coated in a state mixed with each other, to form the coating comprising areas in which the first paint particles are dried to solidify and areas in which the second paint particles are dried to solidify are mixed together in a spotwise pattern. The surface of articles can be provided with colors or textures exhibiting unique and high quality feelings.

Abstract: A liquid pressure transfer print method for printing a steering wheel rim of an automobile includes lowering the steering wheel rim up to a boundary line of a primary transfer print portion, without attaching a mask member to the other side surface of the steering wheel rim, opposite to the primary transfer print portion, after floating the transfer print film on liquid, half drying the polyvinyl alcohol layer on the primary transfer print portion of the steering wheel rim for a predetermined time and at a predetermined rate so the polyvinyl alcohol layer at a first transfer print surface is dried to a gel state, flipping the steering wheel rim and lowering the other side surface to beyond the boundary line, and soaking the steering wheel rim having the entire surface transfer printed in a solution and cleaning the polyvinyl alcohol layers by spraying the solution against the surface of the steering wheel rim.

Abstract: In a strip-shaped mould for producing surface materials, in particular surfaces of melamine resin in the production of laminate panels, with a structured surface, a flexible strip (10) of paper or foil is provided with a layer (12) having a separating action in relation to the surface material, with the formation of slightly cross-linked regions, and a three dimensional shaped structure consisting of UV-hardening printing inks is applied thereto.

Abstract: A semi-finished wood simulating product and method is disclosed. The product is manufactured by providing a substrate having at least one surface to be finished. A liquid basecoat is applied on the substrate and dried. A wood grain pattern is deposited, in liquid form, on the basecoat. Some of the pattern is transferred from the originally deposited position on the basecoat to a subsequent position. The pattern is then cured. A polymerizable protective coating is applied onto the substrate overlying the basecoat and the pattern. The protective coating seals the substrate and is adapted for accepting a colorant to be applied by an end user. The protective coating is then polymerized. Additionally, if a porous substrate is provided, a sealer is applied prior to the liquid basecoat and is then cured.

Abstract: A paint roller assembly is provided comprising a handle, first and second arms supported by the handle, a substantially cylindrical first paint roller rotatably supported by the first arm and a substantially cylindrical second roller rotatably supported by the second arm, whereby the two rollers are spaced from each other such that the first roller can rotate without contacting the second roller. Using this and similar paint roller assemblies, the painter can implement the method embodiment of the invention, by dipping only the first roller in a supply of paint and then contacting the wall with the first roller to apply paint to a region of the wall. The first roller is then removed from the wall and the painter rotates the assembly to position the second roller at the wall whereupon only the second roller is rolled over at least a portion of the region previously painted with the first roller.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a building panel with which a satisfactory three-dimensional effect can be easily imparted to a designed surface thereof, the designed surface including concave and convex portions. The method for manufacturing the building panel, obtained by forming a dot-coating layer on a designed surface, includes the steps of transferring a dot-presenting paint onto the designed surface for forming a plurality of dots via a transfer roll, the transfer roll having a plurality of protruding portions on a roll surface in order to form the dot-coating layer, wherein the plurality of dots are formed so that areas of the dots are varied through differences in pressurizing force applied by the protruding portions onto the designed surface.

Abstract: The invention relates to an article, in particular a glove, a condom, or the like, which is comprised of a flexible rubber and/or plastic, is embodied having at least one section of the surface intended contact or rest against human skin, which article is provided with a slip coating in a section of the surface. This slip coating is comprised of a polymeric material and at least in sections, has repeating shape deviations of the surface that are recessed in relation to a raised, net-like structure. The ratio of the average spacings between the shape deviations to their depth in relation to the raised, net-like structure is between 500:1 and 5:1 and the average roughness depth is between 0.5 and 100 &mgr;m, preferably between 1 and 40 &mgr;m.