Transfer Of Printing Or Design Patents (Class 156/240)
  • Patent number: 7572348
    Abstract: Method for printing objects, whereby these objects (15) are provided with a multi-layered print, characterized in that to this aim, on one hand, two or more layers of printing medium (10-11-12), which at least partially are situated one above the other, are provided on a supple carrier (13) and, on the other hand, these layers (10-11-12) are simultaneously transferred onto the object (15) to be printed by bringing said carrier (13), together with the layers of printing medium (10-11-12) present thereon, and the object (15) into mutual contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignee: Akzo Nobel Coatings International B.V.
    Inventor: Marc Maria Leo Jan LaFaille
  • Patent number: 7544264
    Abstract: An organic electroluminescent device is produced by a method using a transfer material comprising a pressing member having a projection and an organic layer formed on the projection, which comprises the steps of superposing the transfer material on a first substrate having an electrode formed at least partially thereon such that the organic layer faces the electrode; applying pressure thereto to form a laminate; and peeling the pressing member from the laminate so that the organic layer is transferred onto the first substrate via the electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: Fujifilm Corporation
    Inventor: Tomomi Tateishi
  • Patent number: 7510617
    Abstract: The invention relates to a transfer sheet suitable for the formation of electrode patterns, dielectric layers, barrier layers, etc. in plasma display panels (PDPs), field emission displays (FEDS), liquid crystal displays (LCDS), fluorescent displays, hybrid integrated circuits, etc. The transfer sheet comprises a base film and a transfer layer releasably provided on the base film, optionally with a protective film provided on the transfer layer. The transfer layer comprises an inorganic component including a glass frit and an organic component removable by firing, optionally with an electrically conductive powder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Assignee: Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yozo Kosaka, Katsuhiko Mizuno, Sakurako Hatori, Kounosuke Tanaka, Nobuaki Kimura, Toshihiko Takeda
  • Patent number: 7473450
    Abstract: To provide a protective layer thermal transfer film which can form a protective layer that is superior in the water based ink fixing property, solvent-resistant property and, in particular, water-resistant property and also has a superior peeling property. The present invention relates to: a protective layer thermal transfer film, comprising: a thermally transferable protective layer on or over at least one part of one surface of a substrate film, wherein the protective layer is formed on or over the substrate by laminating at least a peeling layer serving as an outermost surface layer after transfer; and the peeling layer containing at least polyvinyl pyrrolidone, and a printed article with the protective layer transferred onto an image on the printed article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kenichi Hirota
  • Publication number: 20080314511
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing a decorating product by which a decorating product additionally printed with a design and the like can be easily obtained, and provides the decorating product. With respect to a transfer film 1 in which a design layer 5 for transfer is formed through a peeling layer 4 on a base material sheet 2, and further the design layer 5 is coated with an adhesive layer 6, a second design layer 8 is additionally printed on the surface of the adhesive layer 6 by ink jet printer, and the transfer film 1, to which the second design layer 8 is additionally printed, is brought into contact with a surface subject to printing under heat and pressure, whereby both the design and the second design thus additionally printed are transferred to the surface subject to printing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2006
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Applicant: NISSHA PRINTING CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Hiromitsu Muko
  • Patent number: 7459052
    Abstract: Printed placemats, potholders, and oven mitts, and process for producing same using a high definition color sublimation printing technique. The sublimation printing technique applies a high quality image onto a print receiving layer that is incorporated into a printed placemat, potholder, or oven mitt. The print receiving layer can be adhesively bonded to the printed placemat, potholder, or oven mitt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: Tweel Home Furnishings
    Inventors: Donald E. Tweel, Joseph R. Missry
  • Publication number: 20080241487
    Abstract: A system and method for rendering an image onto an object is described which can provide an improved method for transferring images onto the surface of a three dimensional object. The image is created onto paper-based or vinyl-type material which is then applied to, or forms the surface of an object such as a box, cupboard, storage chest, drinks container, nesting box and casket, etc., thereby enhancing the appearance and structural integrity of the object. In particular, the method is highly suited to objects having curved or angular components as the image-carrying medium may stretch to match the shape of the object. The image rendering method makes possible the use of low cost construction materials for creating the object and in several embodiments includes a new type of folding joint to enable the rendering of unimpaired images upon complex angled and curved shaped surfaces such that rendered objects of diverse and desirable shapes can be formed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2006
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Inventors: Mary Tomes, Kevin Tomes
  • Publication number: 20080233324
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a convenient and aesthetically pleasing way to label a wide variety of objects. The invention includes both an adhesive image transfer sheet assembly and a method for labeling a disc using standard computer equipment typically found in a home or office, such as an ink jet printer. One embodiment of the invention relates to an adhesive image transfer sheet assembly having a backing sheet that is coated with an ink-receptive coating. The coating is activatable to a tacky state by the application of light pressure or heat, and/or by wetting the coating with ink jet ink. The assembly may also be pre-cut to a particular shape, so as to correspond to the shape of a disc, for instance. An other embodiment of the invention relates to a method of labeling an object using the adhesive image transfer sheet assembly. After receiving printing, the ink-receptive coating is placed against the upper surface of the disc, and the user lighty rubs the backing sheet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2001
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Ivan Sou Phong Lee, Anahit Tataryan, Ronald Ugolick
  • Patent number: 7410551
    Abstract: The invention relates to a hot marking method enabling decoration to be made on an article, the method comprising the steps consisting in: supplying a multilayer structure comprising a layer of varnish that hardens under the effect of radiation, a backing layer, and a layer of decoration, the varnish layer being situated between the backing layer and the decoration layer; bringing said multilayer structure into contact with the article; applying pressure and heat to the backing layer at the location where it is desired to transfer the decoration layer onto the article, the varnish layer being such as to be transferred locally onto the article together with the decoration layer; withdrawing the backing layer; and causing the layer of varnish that has been transferred onto the article to harden by exposing it to said radiation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Assignee: L'Oreal
    Inventor: Alain Bethune
  • Patent number: 7410932
    Abstract: An appliqué and associated method of applying an appliqué an improved sublimated and screen printed image on a substrate of a An improved appliqué suitable for applying a graphic to a material a first printing layer and a second polyurethane layer. The appliqué is cut the graphic imparted thereon and adhered to a garment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Assignee: World Emblem International, Inc.
    Inventor: Manuel Figueroa
  • Patent number: 7402222
    Abstract: A flocked transfer is produced by applying a release agent to a release sheet and then applying the flocking to the release agent. Unlike the traditional method, a binder and hot melt film is not applied to the back of the flock. The transfer (which is essentially a flocked release sheet) is then applied to a substrate (i.e., an item of clothing, a rubber pad, etc.) by positioning a sheet of thermosetting hot melt film on the substrate; placing the transfer on the hot melt film with the flock in contact with the hot melt film; and applying heat and pressure. The heat melts the thermosetting hot melt film to bind the flock to the substrate and binds the flocking together. This method reduces the costs involved in producing flocked articles, especially for articles produced on a continuous basis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: High Voltage Graphics, Inc.
    Inventor: Louis Brown Abrams
  • Publication number: 20080149263
    Abstract: The present invention includes an image transfer sheet. The image transfer sheet comprises a release layer and a polymer layer. One or more of the release layer and the polymer layer comprise titanium oxide or other white pigment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2008
    Publication date: June 26, 2008
    Inventors: Jodi A. Dalvey, Nabill F. Nasser
  • Publication number: 20080141448
    Abstract: A layered device 1 is configured to be disposed on a side wall or base of a device for receiving urine from a user. The layered device 1 comprises a backing layer 3 configured to adhere to the side wall or base of the device for receiving urine. A printing layer 4 disposed over part or all of the backing layer 3. The printing layer 4 is configured to provide predetermined text and/or graphical images. The layered device 1 further comprises a printed heat activated screening layer disposed over the printing layer and configured to be transparent or substantially transparent in response to exposure to urine of at least a predetermined temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2006
    Publication date: June 19, 2008
    Applicant: INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS OCEANIA PTY LTD
    Inventors: Luke Berry, Robert Huxley
  • Patent number: 7386936
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing an electrically conductive pattern by printing a layer comprising metal oxide on a carrier substrate (2) and reducing the metal oxide to metal. The reduced layer is transferred to an application substrate (7). The present invention also relates to the use of the method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Assignee: Intune Circuits Oy
    Inventors: Lauri Huhtasalo, Samuli Strömberg, Marko Hanhikorpi, Olli Hyvärinen, Pekka Taskinen, Tuija Suortti
  • Publication number: 20080135163
    Abstract: A transfer decal retail product unit includes a transfer decal assembly, which can optionally be mounted on a display card. The assembly includes a liner comprising a material that contrasts visually with a graphic material releasably mounted thereon. An optional clear, transparent mask is releasably mounted on the graphic material and is adapted for removal after installation. The visual contrast between the liner and the graphic material facilitates point-of-purchase sales by attracting customers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2008
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: Michael S. Farmer
  • Patent number: 7381284
    Abstract: A flocked transfer is produced by applying a release agent to a release sheet, and then applying the flocking to a release agent. Unlike the traditional method, a binder and thermoplastic hot melt film is applied to the back of the flock. The transfer, which is essentially release sheet, is then applied to a substrate, such as item of clothing, a rubber pad, etc., by positioning a sheet of thermoplastic hot melt film on the substrate; placing the transfer on the hot melt with the flock in contact with the hot melt film; and applying heat and pressure. The heat melts the thermoplastic hot melt film to bind the flock to the substrate and binds the flocking together. This method reduces the cost involved in producing flocked articles, especially for articles produced on a continuous basis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Assignee: High Voltage Graphics, Inc.
    Inventor: Louis Brown Abrams
  • Patent number: 7371298
    Abstract: A method for applying tax stamps to individual cigarette packages of different cigarette cartons, having different height dimensions, comprises the provision of a cigarette carton height determination station, a cigarette carton opening station, a cigarette package tax stamp application station, a cigarette carton closing station, and a cigarette carton exit station. Each particular cigarette carton has its height dimension determined at the first cigarette carton height determination station, and the height dimension data is transmitted to a programmable logic controller (PLC). The programmable logic controller (PLC) automatically adjusts mechanisms located at the various stations in accordance with the height dimension data characteristic of each cigarette carton.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald Michalski, Michael J. Christensen, David A. Lindquist, Kyle R. Gugisberg
  • Patent number: 7364636
    Abstract: The present invention was directed to a unique heat transfer material for use in transferring an image-bearing coating onto a substrate, such as an article of clothing. The heat transfer material of the present invention may be used in cold peel transfer processes, resulting in an image-bearing coating having superior washability, compared to conventional image-bearing coatings. Additionally, the materials may be used on dark colored fabrics without graying of the opaque background or dulling of colored images typically associated with printing on darker fabrics. The heat transfer material of the present invention produces superior results due to the addition of crosslinking agents to the coatings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Assignee: Neenah Paper, Inc.
    Inventor: Frank J. Kronzer
  • Patent number: 7361248
    Abstract: A color filter formation method for transferring a color filter layer provided on a transfer film to a transferred substrate comprises arranging on said transferred substrate a plurality of wirings side by side to extend in a predetermined direction; covering the wirings with a protective insulating layer, wherein the protective insulating layer is formed as a rib protruding from said substrate; affixing said color filter layer on said transfer film onto said transferred substrate through pressure applied by a pressing mechanism; and moving the pressing mechanism in a direction in which said protective insulating layer extends, thereby transferring said color filter layer onto said transferred substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Assignee: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hideki Matsuoka, Kazuyuki Maeda
  • Patent number: 7361247
    Abstract: A heat transfer material kit is disclosed that includes a first heat transfer material that includes a printable, peelable transfer film, and a second, different heat transfer material that includes an overlay transfer film. A method of using the kit is disclosed that includes the steps of a) imaging the printable, peelable transfer film of the first heat transfer material, b) separating the imaged printable, peelable transfer film from the first heat transfer material, c) positioning the second heat transfer material and the imaged printable, peelable transfer film adjacent a substrate, and d) transferring the imaged printable, peelable transfer film and the overlay transfer film to the substrate. Alternate methods of using the kit are also disclosed. Images transferred using the overlay transfer film provide good image appearance and durability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Assignee: Neenah Paper Inc.
    Inventor: Francis Joseph Kronzer
  • Patent number: 7335274
    Abstract: A production method of a decorative film comprising a step of, in a state in which a transparent resin film is laid on a surface of a laminate sheet in which a pattern layer is placed on one surface of a base film of a thermoplastic resin, inserting the laminate sheet and the transparent resin film into between a pair of endless belts placed opposite each other, thereby obtaining a decorative film, wherein the transparent resin film is preheated by contact with a peripheral surface of a preheat roll urged toward the endless belt, and the transparent resin film is run so as to constantly contact a peripheral surface of at least one guide roll during a period between departure from the peripheral surface of the preheat roll and contact with the laminate sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Assignee: Shin-Etsu Polumer Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tsutomu Aso, Satoshi Tamura, Atsushi Taniguchi
  • Publication number: 20080017301
    Abstract: A method of making an image transfer film article and a method of protecting graphic substrates are disclosed. One method of making an image transfer film article includes printing an image onto a transparent thermoplastic protective layer, where the image is formed by an ink-jet printer and an organic solvent-based ink including an organic solvent, a thermoplastic material, and a pigment; and then drying off at least a portion of the organic solvent to form the image transfer film article.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2006
    Publication date: January 24, 2008
    Inventors: Jeffrey O. Emslander, Frank T. Sher
  • Patent number: 7311956
    Abstract: A laminate for use in decorating a receptor surface (e.g., a window) comprising a piece of decorative sheet material with a layer of aggressive pressure sensitive adhesive on its rear surface and a release liner over that layer of adhesive; and a flexible, temporary support tape comprising a backing and a layer of repositionable pressure sensitive adhesive on a second surface of the backing. A longitudinally extending part of the layer of repositionable pressure sensitive adhesive of the support tape is adhered to a front surface of the decorative strip, and an elongate portion of the support tape projects transversely away from a first edge surface of the decorative sheet material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventor: James F. Pitzen
  • Patent number: 7297221
    Abstract: A method of producing a decorative molded object which is a resin molded object decorated with a color design image representing a letter, a symbol, a figure, or the like, includes the steps of printing a color design image on an image carrying layer with an output apparatus that collectively outputs color design data to form a coloring agent layer for displaying the color design image on the substrate sheet, transferring the coloring agent layer on the substrate sheet onto a resin molded object to be decorated, peeling the substrate sheet with the transferred coloring agent layer left on the resin molded object to form a color design image layer on the resin molded object and curing, after application and deposition onto the color design image layer, a transparent resin liquid to thereby form a transparent resin layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: Polymatech Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Atsushi Hikita
  • Patent number: 7279060
    Abstract: The invention generally relates to polymer films used as protective cover sheets for polarizer plates, a method for producing polarizing plates, and a Liquid Crystal Display employing the same. More particularly, the invention relates to cover sheet composites having a removable, carrier substrate and, optionally, a strippable, protection layer that protects the cover sheet from abrasion and dirt during the manufacture of the cover sheet and polarizer plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Janglin Chen, Charles C. Anderson, Timothy J. Hubert, Yongcai Wang, Timothy C. Schunk
  • Patent number: 7252733
    Abstract: The invention generally relates to polymer films used as protective cover sheets for polarizer plates, a method for producing polarizing plates, and a Liquid Crystal Display employing the same. More particularly, the invention relates to a cover sheet composite having a removable, carrier substrate and a cover sheet comprising a low birefringence polymer film and a layer that promotes adhesion to polyvinyl alcohol on the same side of the carrier substrate as the low birefringence polymer film. The guarded cover sheet of the invention is less susceptible to defects due to dirt and abrasion during the manufacture of the cover sheet and polarizer plates. In addition, the cover sheet has excellent adhesion to polyvinyl alcohol-containing dichroic films and eliminates the need to alkali treat the cover sheet prior to lamination to the dichroic films.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Yongcai Wang, Janglin Chen, Charles C. Anderson, Timothy J. Hubert, Timothy C. Schunk, Richard A. Castle
  • Publication number: 20070175578
    Abstract: Method and apparatus of manufacturing color plastic zipper are disclosed. The method includes feeding a continuous row of half-finished plastic zipper, feeding a continuous strip of color transfer film, overlaying the half-finished plastic zipper and the color transfer film and positioning same, intermittently advancing the overlaid half-finished plastic zipper and the color transfer film, heating and pressing the overlaid half-finished plastic zipper and the color transfer film in an interval when the advancing stops for uniformly transferring color of the color transfer film to a portion of the half-finished plastic zipper, advancing the half-finished plastic zipper and the color transfer film again, separating the finished color plastic zipper from the color transfer film while intermittently advancing, and cooling the finished color plastic zipper and the color transfer film. The invention has advantages of high efficiency, high yield, and having a low manufacturing cost.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2007
    Publication date: August 2, 2007
    Inventor: Ching Song Chou
  • Publication number: 20070151659
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a donor film for an organic light-emitting device (OLED) and a method of manufacturing an OLED having the donor film are provided. The method of manufacturing the donor film for an organic light-emitting device including preparing a base film, and forming an organic luminescence layer pattern by a dispensing method in which a fluid organic material is ejected on the base film through a dispenser needle. The method of manufacturing an organic light-emitting device by the use of the donor film including preparing a first electrode pattern on a substrate, preparing a donor film having an organic luminescence layer pattern that matches the first electrode pattern, transferring the organic luminescence layer pattern of the donor film to the substrate to form a organic luminescence layer pattern on the first electrode pattern, and forming a second electrode on the organic luminescence layer formed on the first electrode pattern.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2006
    Publication date: July 5, 2007
    Inventors: Joon-Yong Park, Sang-Yeol Kim, Sung-Hun Lee, Young-Mok Son
  • Patent number: 7232499
    Abstract: A method of laminating a pre-press proof (200) is disclosed comprising the steps of treating a sheet of plastic material (330) with a corona discharge. Laminating a pre-laminate sheet (240) comprising a first thermoplastic layer (304) and a first support layer (150) to the sheet of corona discharged treated plastic material (330). Removing the first support layer (150) to form a pre-laminated receiver stock (230). Creating an imaged receiver sheet (140) with a second support layer (170). Laminating the imaged receiver sheet (140) to the pre-laminated receiver stock (230) thereby encapsulating the image. Removing the second support layer (170) thereby forming the pre-press proof (200).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2007
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Roger S. Kerr, David A. Niemeyer, Larry R. Gartz
  • Patent number: 7220333
    Abstract: A method of applying pieces of material to objects includes providing a material supply strip and an applicator device capable of applying material from the supply strip to objects. The supply strip includes a backing having first and second opposing surfaces and pieces of material removably arranged on both of the first and second surfaces. The method also includes applying at least one piece of material from the first surfaces of the backing to at least one object with said at least one applicator device, and applying at least one piece of material from the second surface of the backing to at least one object with said at least one applicator device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Assignee: L'Oreal S. A.
    Inventors: Alain Bethune, Sophie Hélène Vayrette
  • Patent number: 7192641
    Abstract: An embossing foil (100) for transferring labels (2) to documents of value (1) includes at least a carrier foil (10), a label layer (20) and an adhesion promoter layer (30). The dimensions of the adhesion promoter layer (30) are limited to the contour of the labels (2) to be transferred from the embossing foil (100).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Assignee: Giesecke & Devrient GmbH
    Inventor: Lars Hoffmann
  • Patent number: 7163598
    Abstract: An optical waveguide having a optical waveguide path capable of securing a high light propagation characteristic regardless of the type of a supporting base, provided with a multilayer circuit board, an optical waveguide path arranged on the multilayer circuit board, a light receiving element, IC chips, and a light emitting element, the optical waveguide path formed on a transparent substrate excellent in flatness and transferred to the multilayer circuit board. The light propagation loss becomes small, and a signal to be transmitted at a high speed being transmitted as a light signal and a signal which can be transmitted at a relatively low speed being transmitted as an electrical signal, whereby the signal propagation delay which becomes the problem when a signal is transmitted by only electrical wiring is overcome, and the influence of electromagnetic noise becomes small.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Akihiko Okubora, Tsuyoshi Ogawa
  • Patent number: 7160411
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a heat-setting label sheet that is a polymeric transfer sheet that can be marked and transferred by the consumer. Also encompassed by the present invention is a method of transferring the heat-setting label sheets. The heat-setting label sheets of the present invention comprise a support; an optional pressure sensitive adhesive layer; an Adhesion Layer comprising a thermoplastic polymer which melts in the range of 50–250° C., a wax which melts in the range of 50–250° C., or combinations thereof; an optional opaque layer comprising a styrene-butadiene latex, thermoplastic polymer, elastomer, and optional pigment; and a second optional opaque layer comprising vinyl acetate-ethylene copolymer, thermoplastic elastomer, elastomer and optional pigment. The heat-setting label sheet of the present invention can be imaged by an electrostatic printer or copier, ink jet printer, offset or screen printing, craft-type marking, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: Fóto-Wear, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott A. Williams, Heather Reid
  • Patent number: 7141134
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for automatically transferring a pattern to a surface of a steering wheel, automating a series of hydraulic pressure transfer steps, such as steering wheel supply, hydraulic pressure transfer, drying, and cleaning. Since a series of hydraulic pressure transfer processes, such as steering wheel supply, first transfer to the front surface portion of a rim of a steering wheel, removing of foreign material, drying, second transfer to the rear surface portion of a rim of a steering wheel, first cleaning, and second cleaning, are automated, processing time is saved and labor costs are reduced, improving productivity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Inventor: Youn-Soo Cho
  • Patent number: 7135085
    Abstract: A production method of a decorative film comprises a first step of laying a base film of a thermoplastic resin on a pattern layer of a transfer sheet in which the pattern layer is placed on one surface of a carrier film, thermally transferring the pattern layer onto the base film, and thereafter stripping off the carrier film, thereby obtaining a laminate sheet in which the pattern layer is placed on one surface of the base film; and a second step of, in a state in which a transparent resin film is laid on a surface of the laminate sheet on the pattern layer side, inserting the laminate sheet and the transparent resin film into between a pair of endless belts placed opposite each other, and conveying the laminate sheet and the transparent resin film under heat and pressure, thereby obtaining a decorative film in which a transparent resin layer of the transparent resin film is placed on the surface of the laminate sheet on the pattern layer side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Shin-Etsu Polymer Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tsutomu Aso, Satoshi Tamura, Atsushi Taniguchi
  • Patent number: 7133060
    Abstract: A method for applying an image to a target wax article is provided. The method comprises the steps: a) forming a reverse of the image on wax-coated transfer paper; b) transferring and reversing the reverse image to produce the image on the surface of a carrier wax article; and c) mounting the carrier wax article bearing the image to the target wax article. Wax articles, in particular candles, produced by the method are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Inventor: Dominic Braun
  • Patent number: 7118644
    Abstract: An image-transfer medium includes a transparent substrate and a transferable material formed on a first surface of the substrate. A selected portion of the transferable material can be transferred in an arbitrary shape to an article to form a personalized image by a cold transfer-printing operation. Moreover, the remaining hollowed portion after the removal of the selected portion, including the transparent substrate, can be adhered to the same or another article having a light-transmitting surface to exhibit special lightening effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Inventors: Chih-Lung Chang, Yu-Chih Cheng, Hong-Che Yen, Yen-Feng Lin
  • Patent number: 7097726
    Abstract: The invention relates to a preparation method of an identification card with utilizing a protective layer transfer foil having a peeling layer and a releasing layer laminated on the peeling layer, the preparation method comprising: adhering the transferring layer onto a card substrate; and peeling off the peeling layer to prepare the identification card. The peeling layer including a support and a releasing layer, the transferring layer including a photo-cured resin layer. A maximum electrostatic amount of the peeling layer at the peeling step is 0 to 30 kV.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: Konica Corporation
    Inventors: Ryoji Hattori, Shigehiro Kitamura
  • Patent number: 7087280
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an adhesive transfer device for selectively making a repositionably adherable substrate from a selected substrate. The device comprises a base substrate, a layer of pressure-sensitive repositionable adhesive disposed on the base substrate, a layer of pressure-sensitive permanent adhesive disposed adjacent to the repositionable adhesive layer opposite the base substrate, and structure providing a release surface. The release surface is removably engaged with the permanent adhesive layer opposite the repositionable adhesive layer and the base substrate so as to cover the permanent adhesive layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Assignee: Xyron, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl D. Neuburger
  • Patent number: 7081324
    Abstract: An image transfer sheet is provided which comprises a support, a barrier layer, a dye sublimation ink layer and a polyester layer; wherein the image transfer sheet exhibits cold peel, warm peel and hot peel properties when transferred. A method for transferring an image to a receptor element using the image transfer sheet is also provided. More specifically, the invention relates to an image transfer sheet which can be applied to a receptor element, such as cotton or cotton/polyester blend fabrics or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Assignee: Foto-Wear, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald S. Hare, Scott A. Williams
  • Patent number: 7077926
    Abstract: Process for the production of variously decorated artefacts, comprising the steps of: preliminary preparation of the surfaces of the artefact, possible application of preliminary painting cycles or other surface treatments; covering or tight-wrapping up of the artefact with a transfer support bearing the decorations desired, realized from gas-tight thermoformable plastic material such as polyvinyl alcohol; creation of a vacuum between said transfer support and the artefact covered by the same, so that the support adheres to the shape of the artefact; and heating for the transfer of the decoration and the polymerization of the colors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: V.I.V. International S.P.A.
    Inventors: Italo Goffi, Giancarlo Fenzi
  • Patent number: 7056551
    Abstract: Disclosed is a protective transparent overcoat comprising a protective polymer and a surfactant compound having multiple non-end-group hydrogen bonding groups directly or indirectly bonded to the backbone chain of the surfactant compound. The coating enables simplified manufacturing of a thermal sublimation dye transfer donor of high quality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Rukmini B. Lobo, David C. Boris, Scott A. Strong, Anita M. Fees
  • Patent number: 7022202
    Abstract: High quality full color images are printed with sublimation inks on transfer paper. The images are applied to prepared surfaces on parts, especially surfaces such as anodized aluminum prepared according to specific processes but also to other materials. Image transfer is accomplished by heating the part and/or the transfer paper and image under pressure. Once the image transfer is complete the parts are processed to ensure longevity of the image. The process may be used to apply images to parts having any 3 dimensional shapes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Mareiners, LLC
    Inventor: Reiner J. Goertzen
  • Patent number: 7018772
    Abstract: This invention relates to a method for transferring a protective overcoat for a thermal print wherein the protective overcoat is applied to a dye-donor element under predesigned conditions after thermal dye transfer, the dye-donor element comprising patches of dye for transfer to a thermal print to provide a protective layer thereon. In particular, the invention improves the process of providing an improved level of gloss to the transferred protective overcoat. The method involves a preselected duration between printing and peeling the transferable laminate patch, respectively, to and from the donor. The invention is particularly advantageous at lower line times, faster printing, for thermal prints with high gloss.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: William H. Simpson, Robert F. Mindler, Jacob J. Hastreiter
  • Patent number: 6998005
    Abstract: Method for forming a dye sublimation image in a substrate, particularly a plastic substrate, and apparatus to perform the method. According to the method taught by the present invention, a substrate is disposed on a perforated platen and a dye carrier having an image formed thereon of a dye sublimation ink is disposed on the substrate such that the image is in contact with the substrate. The substrate, dye carrier and at least a portion of the perforated platen are then covered with a flexible membrane. A clamping pressure is then applied to the substrate and the dye carrier through the membrane. Once the clamping pressure is attained, the substrate and dye carrier are first heated, then cooled. The invention disclosed herein further teaches a number of novel apparatus to effect the method, resulting in significantly superior dye sublimation imaging than heretofore attainable in rigid plastic sheets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Fresco Plastics LLC
    Inventors: Ted N. Magee, Jonathan C. Drake, Rick Essert, Robert W. Shaw
  • Patent number: 6998213
    Abstract: There are provided a thermal transfer film which can yield an image formed object possessing excellent fastness or resistance properties such as excellent abrasion resistance and lightfastness, has good sensitivity in transfer, and is free from blocking during storage in a roll form, a thermal transfer recording medium, and a method for image formation using them. The thermal transfer film comprises: a substrate; and one or a plurality of layers provided on one side of the substrate, the one or plurality of layers including at least a thermal transfer layer, the thermal transfer layer being located on the uppermost surface of the thermal transfer film, the thermal transfer layer comprising at least two polyester resins different from each other in number average molecular weigh.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kenichi Aso, Yoshihiko Tamura
  • Patent number: 6993830
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a key top for a push-button switch according to the present invention includes forming a hot-melt adhesive layer on a resin key top so as to have a shape corresponding to a display portion for displaying a letter, symbol, or other indicia, and transferring a metallic thin film layer onto the hot-melt adhesive layer. Therefore, the metallic thin film layer is not damaged due to coating of the hot-melt adhesive layer, and positioning of the display portion is unnecessary. Further, when a transfer resin layer is formed on the metallic thin film layer, oxidation of the metallic thin film layer or damages thereto can be prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Assignee: Polymatech Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masanori Shimizu, Kazuo Kikuchi
  • Patent number: 6984280
    Abstract: An automotive quality paint coat is laminated to the exterior surface of a molded plastic car body member or panel. In one embodiment, the paint coat includes an exterior clear coat above a color coat. During processing, the clear coat and color coat are each coated on a temporary flexible casting sheet and dried. A high gloss surface is transferred to the clear coat from the casting sheet. The paint coat is then transferred from the casting sheet to a thin, semi-flexible thermoformable plastic backing sheet by dry paint transfer-laminating techniques. The resulting laminate is thermoformed into a complex three-dimensional shape of the car body member or panel. The preformed laminate is then bonded to an underlying plastic substrate material, by injection-cladding techniques, for example, to form the finished article. The paint coat has sufficient elongation to retain exterior automotive appearance and durability properties during thermoforming without deglossing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Assignee: Avery Dennison Coporation
    Inventors: Patrick L. Spain, Keith L. Truog, Frank Rohrbacher, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6984281
    Abstract: There is provided a print which has been produced by providing an intermediate transfer recording medium comprising a substrate film and a transfer portion, comprising at least a receptive layer, provided separably on the substrate film, forming a thermal transfer image onto the transfer portion, and retransferring the transfer portion onto an object while accurately and stably forming a non-transferred portion onto a part of the object and, in addition, does not increase a production cost for providing a final print. The intermediate transfer recording medium comprises a substrate film and a transfer portion comprising at least a receptive layer, the transfer portion being provided separably on the substrate film. The print has on its at least one side a transfer portion-non-retransferred portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Assignee: Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Katsuyuki Oshima, Kozo Odamura, Takayuki Imai
  • Patent number: RE39044
    Abstract: A method of forming a scratch resistant color ink pattern of multi-color coatings (5) onto a see-through panel (6) with exact registration between successive color coatings of the pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Inventor: Gregory E. Ross