Abstract: The invention relates generally to illuminated signs (100) having multiple point light sources such as light emitting diode arrays as the illumination source for legend-bearing face panels and particularly to diffuser structure mountable in relation to such an array for facilitating an even distribution of light within such a sign to improve illumination of the typically translucent legend disposed on such a face panel. In particular, the invention employs a clear diffuser holder (120) that is secured to the inside surface of el the face panel thereby providing a means of removeably attaching a diffuser (130). The invention permits interchangeably employing diffusers of different colors while providing resistance to vandalism.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a fixed structure of an identification mark of a bicycle. The fixed structure may include a fixing plate and a cover board. The identification mark may be disposed between the fixing plate and the cover board, and the cover board is fixed on the fixing plate. The cover board may be transparent.

Abstract: A vehicle light lens including a plastic lens body having an outer surface and an inner surface with an upper section of the inner surface including the word “STOP| etched in amber colored script letters, the plastic lens body including a lower section including a multiplicity of proprietary lights adjacent the lower interior surface. A frosted plastic lens adjacent the etched word “STOP” within the upper section of the plastic lens body. A “STOP” script light tunnel adjacent the frosted plastic lens within the upper section of the plastic lens body.

Abstract: The present invention provides a vehicle traction device which may be conveniently attached and applied to roadways that are subject to accumulations of ice, snow, and other wintry precipitation. The vehicle traction device provides a center strip which deters unintended horizontal motion of vehicles as well as skidding, sliding, spinning, and the general loss of traction. The center strip can include a collapsible support system which will allow the center strip to collapse to low height to permit the passage of road clearing equipment or other low clearance vehicles. In addition, the vehicle traction device provides angled strips which deter unintended sliding motion forward or reverse relative to the normal flow of traffic, especially when vehicles are ascending or descending along steeply sloping roadways. Finally, the vehicle traction device further provides bristle strips which help to dislodge ice and other accumulations on vehicle tires which may interfere with vehicle traction.

Abstract: The invention is intended to provide silicone elastomer laces that are improved in terms of branding and/or ornamentation and/or tear strength and/or additional novel functions other than the mechanical properties and external appearance thereof, as well as a novel lacing solution. For this purpose, the invention relates first to a lace (1) for a shoe (2) equipped with a lace passage (3), the two edges (4, 5) of said passage having through-holes (7). The lace (1) essentially comprises at least one silicone elastomer that is at least partially cross-linked and includes one or more silicone polymers and fillers and, optionally, at least one of the following compounds: catalyst(s), cross-linking agent(s), pigment(s), parting agent(s), plasticiser(s), adhesion promoter(s).

Abstract: Described herein is a golf club head that comprises a body and a strike plate. The body comprises a heel portion, a sole portion, a toe portion, and a top portion. The strike plate comprises an outer peripheral edge and at least a portion of a strike face. Furthermore, the strike plate is welded to the body via a peripheral weld between the outer peripheral edge of the strike plate and the body. The outer peripheral edge of the strike plate comprises at least one welded portion, welded to the body via the peripheral weld, and at least one non-welded portion, not welded to the body.

Abstract: A method of creating a digitally printed, water-activated, peel-off and slide-on decal for permanent transfer to an object includes the steps of printing a layer of lacquer on top of a base layer of gum-coated decal paper comprising a cornstarch and dextrose coating having a thickness of between approximately 10 microns to approximately 30 microns, drying the lacquer layer for no more than 90 minutes, printing a full-color artwork with digital, light-cured printing ink in one printing pass onto the lacquer layer to produce a ready-decal sheet having a decal formed by the ink and the lacquer layer, the lacquer layer bonding to the ink and being sandwiched between the cornstarch and dextrose coating and the ink and—having a thickness of between approximately 150 micrometers and approximately 300 micrometers, and—curing the ink with light.

Abstract: Provided is a painting structure that comprises a reflecting plate and one or more painting layers. The reflecting plate may have a reflective surface. The one or more painting layers may comprise a painting region and a non-painting region. The non-painting region may be oppositely arranged with respect to the reflective surface. The one or more painting layers may be spaced a predetermined distance away from the reflecting plate. At least the painting region may have a plurality of through holes, which may be irregularly arranged and may differ in shape.

Abstract: Before back molding, a two-dimensionally extending decorative element is provided with through-holes. At least in the area of the through-holes, a film is applied to the rear of the two-dimensionally extending decorative element. When a plastic melt is introduced, for example by way of injection molding or extruding, the pressure of the plastic melt presses the film into the through-holes. The component is used, in particular, to produce an illuminable field, for example, of a door sill protector of a motor vehicle.

Abstract: This invention provides an ornamental object having therein, but not limited to, a reflective surface (1), a transparent substrate (2), an affixed image (3), and a synthetic resin (4). The process of manufacturing is also included. Specifically, as it relates to such methods used to create ornaments, jewelry, clothing adornment, fine art, home decorations, and imitation gemstones.

Abstract: Disclosed are a light reflective material which shows the color and texture of a base material thereof in the daytime and acts as a light reflector at night, and a preparation method thereof. According to embodiments of the present invention, the preparation method includes preparing an extrusion base material such as plastic or synthetic wood, and supplying a light reflecting element such as glass beads on the surface of the extrusion base material and passing the extrusion base material through an extruder to form a light-reflective layer on the surface of the extrusion base material.

Abstract: The subject invention is related to a method for preparing a reflective film, comprising the steps of: (a) providing a first substrate and forming a releasable adhesive layer thereon; (b) applying reflective particles onto the releasable adhesive layer, where the reflective particles are partially embedded in the releasable adhesive layer; (c) applying a pigment onto the reflective particles and the releasable adhesive layer; (d) removing part of the pigment so that the pigment does not completely cover the reflective particles; and (d) forming a reflective layer on the pigment and the reflective particles. The invention further pertains to a method for manufacturing a reflective article by using the reflective film prepared according to the above-mentioned method.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method of manufacturing an insert sheet for an automobile interior material. The method includes: forming a surface treatment layer on a carrier film; forming a pattern-printed layer by printing a heat-resistant and light-resistant resin on the surface treatment layer to a thickness of 2 to 5 microns; forming an adhesive layer by laminating an acrylic adhesive on the pattern-printed layer to a thickness of 1 to 3 microns; laminating the adhesive layer such that the adhesive layer is placed on the surface of a base layer to which a transparent ABS sheet is applied, and heating the adhesive layer to combine the adhesive layer with the base layer; and removing the carrier film.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes preformed pre-bonded thermoplastic sections comprising smaller articles where the articles and sections have planar top surfaces and planar bottom surfaces that are coplanar to each other. There is also an adhesive backing layer on the coplanar bottom surfaces so that the adhesive backing layer bridges and bonds coplanar bottom surfaces to form unified pre-bonded thermoplastic signage thereby preventing dislodging or separation of the signage during handling, movement, and/or transportation before or during application of the pre-bonded signage. The articles when properly sequenced, matched, and combined, together makeup the sections such that when the sections are also sequenced and matched the sections combine to form thermoplastic signage with a final pattern wherein the planar top surfaces include sequential features necessary to visibly aid in quick assembly of one or more unified thermoplastic signages.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a textured overlay, which allows an image to appear as an oil painting. The overlay includes, a transparent film having a non-adhesive surface, and an adhesive surface, and a texturized translucent polymer composition, wherein, the non-adhesive surface of the film contacts the polymer composition.

Abstract: Implementations of the present invention provide systems, apparatus, and methods for precisely placing a graphic in a desired position between a face panel and a rear panel. In particular, implementations of the present invention comprise wall plaques having graphics that are printed directly to the back surface of face panels. Printing a graphic directly to the back surface of a face panel may help to ensure that the graphic is flat on the back surface of the face panel and is not misaligned. In addition, printing a graphic directly to the back surface of a face panel may help to eliminate the possibility that the graphic will be wrinkled, torn, or otherwise damaged prior to being laminated on the back surface of a face panel. Implementations of the present invention may also make the manufacturing process more efficient both in terms of cost and time.

Abstract: An achievement award assembly includes a first panel having a semi-transparent area, a second panel having an award indicia that is visible through the semi-transparent area and a mount. The semi-transparent area may be configured such that the award indicia, when viewed through the semi-transparent area, appears as an engraved metallic plate.

Abstract: A point of purchase signage system for application upon a point of purchase unit includes a multiple sheet package having multiple distinct graphics for selective display at the point of purchase. The signage system may employ one or more packages in combination to involve a variety of advertising schemes. The signage system facilitates efficient marketing updates at the point of purchase.

Abstract: An exterior sign includes a main body, which has a design, a plating material, which is arranged on an inner surface of the main body, wherein the plating material is visible through the main body, and a double-layered protective layer, which is arranged on the plating material. The double-layered protective layer includes a first protective layer and a second protective layer. The first protective layer is arranged closer to the plating material than the second protective layer and has a lower level of contractility during curing than the second protective layer. The second protective layer has a higher level of corrosion resistance than the first protective layer.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes preformed pre-bonded thermoplastic sections comprising smaller articles where the articles and sections have planar top surfaces and planar bottom surfaces that are coplanar to each other. There is also an adhesive backing layer on the coplanar bottom surfaces so that the adhesive backing layer bridges and bonds coplanar bottom surfaces to form unified pre-bonded thermoplastic signage thereby preventing dislodging or separation of the signage during handling, movement, and/or transportation before or during application of the pre-bonded signage. The articles when properly sequenced, matched, and combined, together makeup the sections such that when the sections are also sequenced and matched the sections combine to form thermoplastic signage with a final pattern wherein the planar top surfaces include sequential features necessary to visibly aid in quick assembly of one or more unified thermoplastic signages.

Abstract: A Snap N Place sign system and method for supporting a sign message includes a sign substrate associated with a number of rubber nipple fasteners and a lens. The sign message and the lens further include mounting holes placed at their corners for securely holding the sign message in association with the sign substrate and lens. The rubber nipple fastener can be pulled through the mounting holes in the lens utilizing a relatively low insertion force. The rubber nipple fasteners can be driven axially into the mounting holes in the lens with a flexible tab engaging the lens and flexing as they move through the hole in the lens. The rubber nipple fastener can be specifically designed such that the force required to install or push the rubber nipple fastener through the mounting hole is relatively low thereby facilitating ergonomic considerations. The Snap N Place sign system is capable of holding signs of a variety of thicknesses and sizes.

Abstract: A sticker assembly includes an indicia-bearing sticker (30) having an adhesive layer (34). A vinyl film (20) is provided having a first side (22) and a second side (24), the second side (24) having a low-tack adhesive (25) thereon. The first side (22) of the vinyl film (20) is adhered to the adhesive layer (34) of the sticker (30). The second side (24) of the vinyl film (20) is applied to a receiving surface (12) and held against the surface (12) by the low-tack adhesive (25) wherein the vinyl film (20) and the sticker (30) are releasably adhered to the receiving surface (12) and wherein the indicia-bearing sticker (30) is displayed for viewing. In one embodiment, the sticker (30) is a vehicle windshield sticker and the receiving surface (12) is a vehicle windshield.

Abstract: An achievement award assembly includes a first panel having a semi-transparent area, a second panel having an award indicia that is visible through the semi-transparent area and a mount. The semi-transparent area may be configured such that the award indicia, when viewed through the semi-transparent area, appears as an engraved metallic plate.

Abstract: A floor sign comprises: A. A mounting adhesive layer comprising a top facial surface and a bottom facial surface; B. A graphics layer comprising (1) dark and light areas, and (2) a top facial surface and a bottom facial surface, the bottom facial surface of the graphics layer in direct contact with the top facial surface of the mounting adhesive layer; D. A cover film layer comprising a top facial surface and a bottom facial surface, the bottom facial surface of the cover layer in direct contact with the top facial surface of the graphics layer; and E. An anti-slip layer comprising a top facial surface and a bottom facial surface, the bottom facial surface of the anti-slip layer in direct contact with the top facial surface of the cover layer, with the proviso that the anti-slip layer is coincident with the dark areas of the graphics layer.

Abstract: A nautical navigation aid comprising a photoluminescent element and a light wave re-directing means for improved photoluminescent qualities used to enhance the safety of nautical travelers on waterways in conditions where visibility is limited. The navigation aid sign has a first rigid sheet member having an upper surface, a lower surface and a peripheral edge, a second rigid sheet member having an upper surface and a lower surface extending outward from the peripheral edge of the first rigid sheet member at a predetermined angle to a predetermined length, thereby defining an angled collar of the first rigid sheet member sized and configured to redirect light waves emanating from a light source, and a luminescent layer. It is envisioned that an embodiment of the present invention might also include a means for retrofitting existing nautical navigation aids with a photoluminescent element and a light wave re-directing means for improved photoluminescent qualities.

Abstract: A sticker assembly includes an indicia-bearing sticker (30) having an adhesive layer (34). A polyester film (20) is provided having a first side (22) and a second side (24), the second side (24) having a low-tack adhesive (25) thereon. The first side (22) of the polyester film (20) is adhered to the adhesive layer (34) of the sticker (30). The second side (24) of the polyester film (20) is applied to a receiving surface (12) and held against the surface (12) by the low-tack adhesive (25) wherein the polyester film (20) and the sticker (30) are releasably adhered to the receiving surface (12) and wherein the indicia-bearing sticker (30) is displayed for viewing. In one embodiment, the sticker (30) is a vehicle windshield sticker (30) and the receiving surface (12) is a vehicle windshield.

Abstract: A reflective sheet material for use on exterior signs and exposed surfaces includes a sheet member having a series of adjacent, parallel primary grooves extending across at least one surface. Each group is defined by first and second elongate facets forming an angle of at least 90 degrees in a plane perpendicular to the surface and to the length of the facets. A thin opaque, reflective layer extends over the surface in the region of the grooves and conforms to the series of grooves so as to form a series of associated angular grooves. A transparent material extends over and substantially fills these angular grooves, thereby forming a substantially smooth outer surface which is located at or close to the top edges of the grooves. The sheet material can be flexible or rigid.

Abstract: A safety kick plate device and improved manufacturing thereof, wherein the safety kick plate device includes a base component including a communication element through which a light emission component is visible. A communication protection element provides reinforcement and strength to the communication element as well as mitigates damage to the light emission component.

Abstract: A versatile decorative object having a multidimensional visual effect with a first layer separated from a second layer. The first layer is opaque and has applied on it a decorative image having at least black and white and the second layer (s) is transparent and has applied on it the same decorative image with the white of the image being transparent on the second layer. A preferred embodiment includes the first layer and the second layer(s) to be digitally created to accomplish the removal of white space from the decorative image. During this digital creation, proportions, size, juxtaposition of layers and content of the image is critical in achieving the stated visual effect.

Abstract: An advertising sheet laminate which for attachment to signboards or windows. The advertising sheet has good print quality to very clearly display advertising contents, has increased light transmission to appear lighter than a prior art advertising sheet, and at the same time, has greatly increased tensile strength to extend the life span thereof. The advertising sheet is formed by bonding a first polyvinyl chloride (PVC) sheet, which is printed with a predetermined advertisement, to one side of a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) sheet using an adhesive, and then pressing the bonded PET sheet and first PVC sheet under heat.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method and apparatus for improving the backlit display printed image quality. In accordance with the method, the front side image is printed as an original high quality image. The backside image is printed as a blurred image. Both images are generated from the same digital image data.

Abstract: A graphic design consists of graphic elements such as text, logos, images and texture. On the front surface of transparent substrate, a white translucent copy in the form of chosen graphic elements in the design (such as text) is applied, so when viewed from front is right-reading. The complete original graphic design is then applied in register onto the front surface, so that the parts of the design that were copied onto the front surface first come directly onto contact with that copy. A white copy in the form of the other areas (the graphic elements that were not copied onto the front) is applied onto the back of the substrate (i.e. the side facing away from the viewer) in register with the rest of the design (in reverse, so when viewed from front is right-reading). Further copies of this one may be applied behind it (i.e. on the back) to increase its opacity. A light-source is placed behind the substrate.

Abstract: A security device that increases the number of design options available for a machine testable security feature formed in part from a light absorbing (e.g., magnetic) material, while more effectively hiding or concealing this material, is provided. The inventive security device achieves these results by physically separating this security feature from a visually detectable or public security feature. Also provided by way of this invention is a process for preparing the inventive security device as well as a security document that employs one or more such devices.

Abstract: The invention provides an internally illuminated sign comprising an information display section having at least one flat or curved surface which retroreflects light coming from the front of said sign and transmits light from the interior of said sign; an illuminator disposed behind the information display section; and a housing which encloses and holds said information display section and the illuminator. Those retroreflective elements used in said information display section are prismatic retroreflective elements according to the principle of total internal reflection, a large number of which are densely arranged to form a continuous retroreflective plane, at least the retroreflecting area of the back of said large number of prismatic retroreflective elements has no bonded area to other layer(s).

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention may comprise a system and method for mass customizing luggage. A system and method for customizing luggage may comprise offering a user a design catalog from which to select a graphic design for an item of luggage, the item of luggage having a recessed panel, generating a custom label using the selected graphic design, and applying the custom label to the recessed panel.

Abstract: A sign assembly includes a base material, a filmic substrate imaged with a design, and a sign assembly frame comprising a sign framing member of fixed position in relation to the base material. The sign framing member includes a projecting portion terminating at an inside edge of said sign framing member. The display sign is adhered to said base material. The inside edge of said sign framing member is located within the projected area of said display sign and is spaced from said base material and said filmic substrate. The display sign is capable of being applied through an opening defined by the inside edge of said sign framing member. The space between said inside edge of said projecting portion and said display sign comprises a void.

Abstract: A device and method for formation of indicia adjacent to a mirrored surface yielding substantially distortion free reflections of said indicia in said mirrored surface. Mirrors so formed can be employed as background for photographs and graphics and produced in small quantities and be free of double images of common mirror surface graphics.

Abstract: A sticker assembly is disclosed and includes an indicia-bearing sticker (30) having an adhesive layer (34). A vinyl film (100) is provided having a first side (102) and a second side (104), the second side (104) having a low-tack adhesive (106) thereon. The first side (102) of the vinyl film (100) is adhered to the adhesive layer (34) of the sticker (30). The second side (104) of the vinyl film (100) is applied to a receiving surface (12) and held against the surface (12) by the low-tack adhesive (106) wherein the vinyl film (100) and the sticker (30) are releasably adhered to the receiving surface (12) and wherein the indicia-bearing sticker (30) is displayed for viewing. In one embodiment, the sticker (30) is a vehicle windshield sticker and the receiving surface (12) is a vehicle windshield.

Abstract: An ornamental display device having an interferometric modulator for displaying an ornamental image. The ornamental device may have a patterned diffuser formed on a transparent substrate to provide an ornamental image. The ornamental device may also be a piece of jewelry or an article that may be worn. The image displayed may have an iridescent appearance. A controller may also be used to control images displayed on multiple ornamental device to provide coordinated images based on externals received or pre-programmed images.

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.

Abstract: A versatile system for producing channel letter coil of superior reflectivity and durability is described that includes providing a readily formable substrate. A first reflective material is disposed upon a first surface of the substrate. A second reflective material is disposed upon the first reflective material. An aesthetic material is disposed upon a second surface of the substrate. The entire substrate, with the reflective and aesthetic materials intact, is then rolled into a channel letter coil product, ready for immediate and efficient use in sign production.

Abstract: A paper composite for use on billboards, including at least one water-resistant paper outer layer impregnated with a polymeric resin, and having one or more pigmented or clear coatings suitable for high quality printing on the surface of the paper, the composite optionally also including a reinforcing lightweight polymeric fabric. A method of applying a visible textual or pictorial image to a billboard includes attaching a composite of this invention, with an image on it, to the billboard. A method of forming a composite of this invention includes adhering together a polymeric fabric and a paper sheet and, either before or after the adhering step, impregnating the paper sheet with a first synthetic polymeric resin in an amount sufficient to render the sheet water-resistant and thereafter applying a coating layer on the paper sheet.

Abstract: An advertising system and method in which an advertising mural is segmented and portions of the advertising mural are formed on each one of a plurality of laterally aligned overhead stowage bin doors in a commercial aircraft. Each segment of the advertising mural is formed on an independent, strippable laminate panel that is secured to its associated stowage bin door so as to be generally non-removable therefrom without the aide of a heat gun or like implement. Changing the advertising mural involves using a heat gun or like implement to remove each laminate panel from its associated bin door. New laminate panels collectively forming a different advertising mural can then be individually applied to the bin doors. Accordingly, the same bin doors can be re-used to present a different advertising mural.

Abstract: In a process for the production of a plate, in particular a motor vehicle licence plate, in which at least a layer sequence forming an electroluminescence flat capacitor (4, 5, 6, 7) and a reflection film (10; 10?) are applied to a carrier (1), a reflection film (10; 10?) is selected whose reflection value is higher than the maximum value permitted by statute, and said reflection value is reduced by further production steps to such an extent that it is below the maximum value permitted by statute.

Abstract: A decorated panel and a process for manufacturing a decorated panel are disclosed. The decorated panel comprises a multi-layered system of linking, printing and finishing films laminated on opposite sides of a structural core formed of a fiber layer impregnated with synthetic resin. The multi-layered system of plastic films allows the creation of new optical effects which include reproduction of the same color tones under different lighting conditions, pre-arranged superimposition of complementary images, double-sided printing, a combination of translucency and opacity, as well as other graphic possibilities. These panels are used for visual communication, advertising, signs, architecture and other applications.

Abstract: A reflective sign comprises a front face, an image formed by openings in the front face, a back face connected to the front face, and a reflective surface mounted on the back face behind the image, wherein light passing through the openings in the front face is reflected by the reflective surface back out through the openings.

Abstract: A weather resistant honeycomb laminated sign board panel for use in sign manufacturing. The honeycomb sign board panel displays a message through a dark vinyl display layer through a novel lamination and routing process in which a message is cut through the vinyl layer and into a light colored core. The core layer is made of high molecular weight, high density polyethylene having a plurality of channels.

Abstract: There is disclosed a method of constructing a laminated composite bidirectional panel from commercially available transparent/see-through materials, which may be used as shades for openings, such as doors and windows, to advance an aesthetically pleasing appearance in which, changeable decorative images of varying configurations and colors are incorporated between layers of laminations to promote the mood of a particular season, occasion, or event.

Abstract: Disclosed is a laminating frame employing a partial hologram, in which a photograph or picture is placed. The laminating frame includes a first laminating film of a desired dimension; a backing sheet adhered to the first laminating film and having a dimension slightly less than that of the laminating film; a partial hologram film disposed on the backing sheet and having a rim adhered to the first laminating film and a transparent window of a dimension slightly less than that of the backing sheet, wherein the transparent window is patterned with a plurality of dotted-hologram pixels and the rim is patterned on the upper and lower surfaces of the rim with a plurality of deeply colored hologram pixels; and a second laminating film adhered to the partial hologram film.

Abstract: A preferred artistic medium comprises a first translucent sheet having at least one first image presented thereon, a second translucent sheet having a least one second image presented thereon, the second image being substantially identical to the first image, wherein at least a portion of at least one of the first and second sheets is textured in a substantially uncolored area of the image, and wherein the first and second sheets are positioned in proximity to one another and in a relative orientation such that the first and second images are in substantial registration with each other.