Abstract: In a method of treating a surface normally susceptible to fogging, a gas plasma is applied to chemically modify and thereby increase the surface energy of the surface. The gas plasma includes at least 80% water vapor plasma by weight. The increased surface energy causes the surface to have reduced susceptibility to fogging. In a method of increasing the adhesion between a material and a surface, a gas plasma is applied to chemically modify and thereby increase the surface energy of the surface. The gas plasma includes at least 80% water vapor plasma by weight. The increased surface energy causes the surface to have increased adhesive properties relative to the material.

Abstract: The present invention is generally directed towards a headlight assembly installed in a motor vehicle. The headlight assembly includes a reflector member, a light source and a light shield. In order to give the appearance during daytime that the reflector member is colored, the headlight assembly is provided with a colored ring around the reflector member. Additionally, the light shield is also coated with the same color.

Abstract: The present invention is generally directed towards a headlight assembly installed in a motor vehicle. The headlight assembly includes a reflector member, a light source and a light shield. In order to give the appearance during daytime that the reflector member is colored, the headlight assembly is provided with a colored ring around the reflector member. Additionally, the light shield is also coated with the same color.

Abstract: A method for identifying and protecting activated surface portions of a plastic substrate is provided. The method includes the steps of providing a plastic substrate having one or more activated surface portions and applying a solution containing a water-soluble, organic film-forming substance onto the substrate. The solution coats only the activated portions of the substrate surface. The method further includes the steps of drying the solution to form a temporary protective film on the activated portions of the surface, thereby rendering the activated portions less susceptible to abrasion or disruption during handling.

Abstract: A method for identifying and protecting activated surface portions of a plastic substrate is provided. The method includes the steps of providing a plastic substrate having one or more activated surface portions and applying a solution containing a water-soluble, organic film-forming substance onto the substrate. The solution coats only the activated portions of the substrate surface. The method further includes the steps of drying the solution to form a temporary protective film on the activated portions of the surface, thereby rendering the activated portions less susceptible to abrasion or disruption during handling.

Abstract: An improved plasma treatment apparatus and method are provided, wherein the flow of ionizable gas across an article surface to be treated is optimized through the use of one or more flow lines having a plurality of distribution orifices therealong. The flow lines closely conform to at least one contour of the article surface.

Abstract: The present invention teaches an apparatus for producing an article in a mold tool having electrically isolated dies, an electric field generator, and a sleeve made from a material having a very low dielectric loss factor and being operable between an extended and retracted position. The sleeve separates the dies when it is in an extended position and permits an electric field produced by the generator to be coupled between the dies.