Abstract: A method of decorating an article, the method comprising mixing a thermochromic ink with a transparent lacquer, applying the mixture on to part or all of the surface of an article, once the mixture is set, applying a second layer of dishwasher proof transparent lacquer.

Abstract: A process for color matching a metallic paint by taking a color measurement reading at a single angle using a regular spectrophotometer or colorimeter is provided. The preferred type of metallic pigment to be utilized in preparing the matching color can be selected by microscopic evaluation of the metallic pigment in the target metallic paint to identify its size, shape and probable composition.

Abstract: An optically embossed sheet (10) for a laminate (107) for decorative boards includes a base layer (12) having a print surface (14) and an opposed resin application surface (16), wherein the print surface (14) defines a decorative area (18). A small particle ink (20) overlies the decorative area (18), and a large particle ink (22) overlies the small particle ink (20) within a low-gloss region (24) defined within the decorative area (18). A thermosetting resin is applied only to the resin application surface so that more than fifty percent of the particles of the small particle ink (20) at the print surface (14) are coalesced by the thermosetting resin (26) into agglomerations (27), and less than about thirty percent of the particles of the large particle ink (22) are coalesced into agglomerations (27) giving rise to a substantial gloss differential at the print surface (14).

Abstract: Color shifting retroreflective articles can provide features such as decorative effects, evidence of tampering, security authentication or positional information. In some embodiments, the color shifting retroreflective article includes a layer of microspheres, and a reflective coating that is disposed in optical association with the layer of microspheres. The reflective coating includes a spacer layer disposed between a semitransparent first reflective layer and a second reflective layer. The first reflective layer includes a reflective layer disposed adjacent the layer of microspheres. At least one layer of the reflective coating includes a non-uniform thickness associated with each of a plurality of microspheres such that light incident on the article from a first direction is retroreflected at a first color and light incident on the article from a second direction is retroreflected at a second color visibly different from the first color.

Abstract: The present invention provides a printing process and a printed product in which a coating is combined with an additive that lowers the surface tension of the dried coating. The coating pattern is printed on a substrate, and is cured using electron beam (“EB”) processing. An ink is printed on top of the dried coating pattern. The ink flows away from the coating due to the difference in surface tension, forming a pattern of raised ink between the pattern and the coating.

Abstract: A method of producing a finish for a selected wood substrate, wherein the finish provides the selected wood substrate with a color that matches the color of a target object. In accordance with the method, calculations are performed to determine the quantities of at least one group of colorants required to produce a semitransparent wood stain from a vehicle, wherein when the semitransparent wood stain is applied to the selected wood substrate, the selected wood substrate will have a color that matches the target object. The calculations are performed using reflectance measurements of the target object obtained using a spectrophotometer and previously obtained spectral data of the colorants as applied to at least one type of wood. The colorants used to form the semitransparent wood stain do not include a white colorant.

Abstract: A new and improved process for printing a durable image prepared from sublimable inks on a substrate of natural or synthetic materials by first providing the substrate with a transparent polymeric top coating formed from an acrylic polyol or isocyanate resins or mixtures thereof and transferring onto the substrate the image formed from sublimable inks by sublimation.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for the effective dispersion of carbon nanotubes into a polymer matrix. Through a combination of dispersion through sonication, in situ polymerization, dissolution, and film casting, transparent polymer carbon nanotube composites are produced.

Abstract: A deposition method includes contacting a substrate with a first initiation precursor and forming a first portion of an initiation layer on the substrate. At least a part of the substrate is contacted with a second initiation precursor different from the first initiation precursor and a second portion of the initiation layer is formed on the substrate. The substrate may be simultaneously contacted with a plurality of initiation precursors, forming on the substrate and initiation layer comprising components derived from each of the plurality of initiation precursors. An initiation layer may be contacted with a deposition precursor, forming a deposition layer on the initiation layer. The deposition layer may be contacted with a second initiation precursor different from the first initiation precursor forming a second initiation layer over the substrate.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus and a method for at least partially encapsulating a fiber batt or other highly porous substrate by applying a polymeric foam layer to one or more surfaces of the fiber batt. The foam application assemblies are arranged and configured to extrude a polymeric foam or a foaming mixture onto the surface(s) of the fiber batt to be coated. A combination of foam application assemblies may be provided in either fixed or moveable configurations for coating one or more sides of the fiber batt. The encapsulation of the fiber batt may also include a premanufactured material layer on one or more surfaces that may be exposed or may also be encapsulated below the polymeric foam layer.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of applying a fragrance to a surface such as skin and/or hair. The method comprises applying to one area of the surface a first composition wherein the first composition comprises at least one first fragrance oil; at least one first cyclic oligosaccharide, wherein the at least one first fragrance oil and the at least one first cyclic oligosaccharide form a complex, which complex is dissolved or dispersed in the first composition; and a first solvent, wherein the first solvent has a dielectric constant at 25° C. of greater than or equal to 43. The method also comprises simultaneously or sequentially, in either order, applying to the one area or an area adjacent thereto a second composition wherein the second composition comprises at least one second fragrance oil; and a second solvent wherein the at least one second fragrance oil is soluble or is dispersed at 25° C. in the second solvent.

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.

Abstract: The invention provides methods for providing improved image quality and water resistance of dye based ink images on substrates using aqueous dispersed mordants and dispersed hydrophobic materials.

Abstract: On a support, a porous resin layer which is opaque in a water-unabsorbed state and capable of turning transparent in a water-absorbed state is formed, and also a water-repellent resin layer is so provided as to exist in the porous resin layer at its some area or areas in a co-existent state, to make up a water-metachromatic laminate. A novel toy element can be provided in which latent images standing invisible in a normal condition are rendered visible by means of water as a medium so as to be visually distinguished.

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 is directed to the use of a resin dispersion to form a variety of decorative transfers. The transfers can include a decorative medium such as flock. Primary and secondary carriers are used in some embodiments of the invention. The resin dispersion, when gelled and fused, can provide a free-form design article that can be readily applied to any desirable substrate, such as a textile.

Abstract: A method for the production of catalyst coated membranes, especially catalyst coated membranes for use in fuel cells, includes raised relief printing a catalyst coating composition (11) onto the surface of an ion exchange membrane (16) to form at least one electrode layer.

Abstract: An improved automotive grille and an improved method of making the automotive grille are provided. The automotive grille includes durable leading edge portions that are secured to decorative portions of the grille using a complimentary guide and channel approach. This manner of construction improves the durability and environmental tolerance of the grille components while at the same time improving the decorative appearance of the grille.

Abstract: An improved automotive grille and an improved method of making the automotive grille are provided. The automotive grille is built from aluminum and subsequently powder coating. Multiple stainless steel strips are adhered to the leading edge of the grille, thereby reducing moisture within the powder coating and improving the decorative appearance of the grille.

Abstract: An apparatus for applying information to a medical slide or histology cassette has an ink jet printer for printing a printing medium directly onto the slide or cassette. The printing medium or the ink is placed onto the slide or cassette so that the resulting printed data is impervious against removal or damage during subsequent handling or treatment of the slide or cassette.

Abstract: A method is taught for fabricating patterned silicon dioxide layers on process areas disposed perpendicularly or at an inclination to a substrate surface. Firstly, a starter layer having leaving groups is produced by non-conformal deposition of a reactive component. Tris(tert-butoxy)silanol is subsequently added. The addition of the tris(tert-butoxy)silanol leads to the formation of a silicon dioxide layer selectively only on the starter layer.

Abstract: A coating method for a work piece includes the steps of: coating a coating film as a base color layer on a treating surface of the work piece, wherein the coating film has a predetermined color provided thereon; coating a first transparent protective layer on the coating film to protect the coating film; attaching a sticker layer having a predetermined character pattern on the first transparent protective layer under a water treatment such that the character pattern of the sticker layer is projected from the coating film to form a three-dimensional appearance; and coating a second transparent protective layer on the first transparent protective layer to sealedly enclose the sticker layer between the first transparent protective layer and the second protective layer so as to form a three-dimensional customary coating layer on the work piece.

Abstract: A method for repairing a basecoat/clearcoat finish or coating comprised of a fluorinated organosilane topcoat. A fluorourethane star polyester additive is added to the fluorinated organosilane topcoat composition to improve recoat adhesion with the repair basecoat.

Abstract: The invention provides thin films of low molecular compounds. A thin-film forming area on a surface of a silicon substrate is allowed to have high affinity for a thin-film forming material. For this purpose, a self-assembled film having an atomic group in common with a molecule constituting the thin-film forming material is formed in the thin-film forming area. Thereafter, a solution is discharged to the surface of the silicon substrate by an ink jet process.

Abstract: The present invention has an object to provide transfer paper for electrophotography which is excellent in paper-feed conveyability and image quality. The invention provides transfer paper for electrophotography having coated layers on both sides of a substrate material, comprising a first coated layer, containing a print seam, provided on at least one side thereof and a second coated layer provided on said first coated layer and having a print seam different from that of the first coated layer; wherein the total weight of the transfer paper for electrophotography is within a range from 60 to 130 g/m2.

Abstract: A method of decorating an article, the method comprising mixing a thermochromic ink with a transparent lacquer, applying the mixture on to part or all of the surface of an article, once the mixture is set, applying a second layer of dishwasher proof transparent lacquer.

Abstract: An improved protective coating, for parking meters or other equipment that is subject to environmental deterioration and/or vandalism, having thereon at least a three layer coating of a composite thickness sufficiently thick to avoid pinholes and sufficiently thin to avoid crazing and cracking due to variations in the ambient environment. The coating has a conventional lower layer of zinc on or proximate to the equipment surface (in the alternative the substrate may be a zinc part); a second layer of a thermosetting polymer that has been applied by a powder coating electrostatic method, and a third, top, coating of an epoxysiloxane polymer. The total coating thickness should preferably not exceed about 6 mils.

Abstract: A non-fluorocarbon oil and grease barrier packaging for storing materials, particularly products that need oil and grease resistant characteristics. The barrier packaging does not contain fluorocarbons, which improves the environmental rating of the oil and grease barrier packaging. The packaging is made by applying an acrylate based overprint varnish to a substrate and then curing the overprint varnish with a curable energy source, which regulates a cross-link density of the overprint varnish. Application can be flexography, rotogravure, or either rod or blade coated. The overprint varnish possesses oil and grease resistant characteristics, which allows packaging producers to forego use of oil and grease resistant coated substrates in their packaging manufacturing processes.

Abstract: A semiconductor die having multiple solder bumps, each having a diameter less than about 100 microns, and the method for making such a die are described. The solder bumps are preferably about 10 microns in diameter, and the pitch between the solder bumps is less than 100 microns, and preferably less than or equal to 10 microns. A thermal solder jet apparatus is utilized to deposit solder material to form the solder bumps. The apparatus includes a print head having a plurality of solder ejection ports. Each ejection port has an associated gas ejection conduit connected to a chamber containing one or more hydride films. The hydride film is heated to disassociate hydrogen gas. The hydrogen gas rapidly builds up in the conduit which leads to the ejection port which is loaded with a solder material and forces the ejection of the solder material from the port.

Abstract: An article made from polyvinyl chloride/wood composite having a natural wood grain finish and a method for creating the article. The natural wood grain finish is created on the article by applying multiple paint transfers onto the polyvinyl chloride/wood composite. The paint is transferred by a series of printing rollers having a wood grain pattern. Optionally, the polyvinyl chloride/wood composite can be painted with a base-coat of a hydrocarbon-based paint before applying the multiple paint transfers. This method is especially suited for manufacturing window blind slats.

Abstract: An improved and novel device and fabrication method for a magnetic element, and more particularly a magnetic element (10) including a first electrode (14), a second electrode (18) and a spacer layer (16). The first electrode (14) and the second electrode (18) include ferromagnetic layers (26 & 28). A spacer layer (16) is located between the ferromagnetic layer (26) of the first electrode (14) and the ferromagnetic layer (28) of the second electrode (16) for permitting tunneling current in a direction generally perpendicular to the ferromagnetic layers (26 & 28). The device includes insulative veils (34) characterized as electrically isolating the first electrode (14) and the second electrode (18), the insulative veils (34) including non-magnetic and insulating dielectric properties.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system to dispense a liquid, contained in a cartridge, onto a substrate employing a dispensing system under control of a processor in data communication with a memory.

Abstract: Methods of applying adhesive to a surface of a substrate comprise: digitally applying a fixable fluid material to a portion of the substrate surface, fixing the first fluid material to form a fixed coating in contact with the substrate surface, wherein the fixed coating has at least one boundary that encloses a region of the substrate surface within the at least one boundary, and applying a second fluid material comprising at least one of an adhesive and an adhesive precursor to at least a portion of the enclosed region of the substrate surface. Various products, including laminated products, may be prepared according to such methods.

Abstract: Use of photocatalytic preparations of colloidal titanium dioxide optionally doped with a metal chosen from groups I-VA, and the lanthanide and actinide series of the periodic table, for preserving the original appearance of cementitious, stone, and marble products.

Abstract: The invention provide a method for applying a coating to an ophthalmic lens or a mold for making the ophthalmic lens or a medical device other than ophthalmic lens. The method comprises spraying at least one layer of a coating liquid onto an ophthalmic lens using a spraying process selected from the group consisting of an air-assisted atomization and dispensing process, an ultrasonic-assisted atomization and dispensing process, a piezoelectric assisted atomization and dispensing process, an electro-mechanical jet printing process, a piezo-electric jet printing process, a piezo-electric with hydrostatic pressure jet printing process, and a thermal jet printing process. The coating can comprise a property/functionality pattern or a color image or combination of both.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and composition for producing a supported membrane. In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a method for producing a supported membrane comprising the steps: (i) providing a substrate coated with a monolayer having reactive functional groups; (ii) contacting the reactive groups with a linker compound to form a derivatized monolayer having covalently bonded linker moieties; and (iii) contacting the derivatized monolayer with a membrane solution to produce a supported membrane.

Abstract: A conductive pattern forming composition, containing in a dispersion medium conductive fine particles composed of at least one kind of metal and a dispersant for dispersing the conductive fine particles, wherein the dispersant is a polymer containing a tertiary amine-type monomer in a main chain and a polyether-type nonionic monomer in a side chain.

Abstract: A film, and process for making the same, that can be used as a label and which provides an etched appearance by the application of the combination of at least two layers of coarse-grained inks. A more specific form of the invention is to prepare a heat-shrink over-wrap film label as disclosed and then apply it to a regular glass bottle so as to create the appearance of an all-over etched treatment or a look of etched treatment to specific areas only. According to another more specific version of the invention, a heat-shrinkable overwrap sleeve may be printed as described above with a portion of the finish gradated from a full strength coating on the main body section of the container to a lesser degree in a continuous gradation over to a narrower neck part of the bottle to be covered.

Abstract: The invention provides a new method and apparatus for making multicolor gelatin ribbons and softgel capsules is provided which uses a modification of the gelatin spreader boxes by incorporating especially designed pipelines that are bifurcated with a tee.

Abstract: An aqueous composition suitable for use, when dry, as an improved coating is provided including an aqueous emulsion polymer, the polymer having a glass transition temperature (Tg) from greater than 20° C. to 80° C., formed by the free radical polymerization of at least one ethylenically unsaturated nonionic acrylic monomer and 0-7.5%, by weight based on the total weight of the polymer, ethylenically unsaturated acid monomer in the presence of 0.01-1.0%, by weight based on the total weight of the polymer, t-alkyl hydroperoxide, t-alkyl peroxide, or t-alkyl perester wherein the t-alkyl group includes at least 5 Carbon atoms and, optionally, at least one other oxidant. A method of preparing the emulsion polymer, a method for providing a coated substrate wherein the coating contains the emulsion polymer having a Tg from −20° C. to 80° C., and a method for improving the scrub resistance of a coating by including the emulsion polymer having a Tg from −20° C. to 80° C.

Abstract: A primitive display plate includes a supporting portion having a positioning structure formed to be positioned by engagement with another member, a display plate shape portion formed to have a predetermined positional relation to the positioning structure and to have the planar shape of a display plate to be manufactured, and a connecting portion for integrally connecting the display plate shape portion and the supporting portion, and wherein an ink-receiving layer is formed on the surface of the display plate shape portion, for holding the received ink droplets thereby.

Abstract: The invention relates to a heat-insulating material acceptable for use, such as a bed blanket. The heat-insulating material has a reinforcing layer, a base layer bonded to the reinforcing layer, and flock fibers secured to the exposed surface of the base layer through a discontinuous coating of cured adhesive. The base layer can have a thickness of less than 0.0625 inch. The flock fibers can have a diameter in the range from about 3 denier to about 4 denier. The invention also relates to a method of making the heat-insulating material by providing a laminate of a reinforcing layer and a base layer of a thickness less than 0.

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: Processes for depositing nanowires on a substrate and nanowire-based devices that can be formed using these processes are described. In one embodiment, a process includes forming an organic layer on an electrically conductive layer formed on the substrate. The organic layer includes a first region and a second region. The first region has an affinity for the nanowires and is electrically conductive. The process also includes contacting the organic layer with a composition including the nanowires dispersed in a compatible solvent for a time sufficient to selectively deposit at least one of the nanowires on the first region of the organic layer.

Abstract: An artificial stone veneer product has a thin substrate covered by a stone veneer having a pitted, uneven surface having an appearance similar to travertine. To make the product, layers of polymer resin and particulate matter are applied to a substrate. A thin layer of polymer resin is first applied to the substrate, followed by a layer of fine particulate matter that at least partially settles into the resin, and the resin is allowed to set partially. Another layer of polymer resin is applied to the underlying layers in a nonuniform manner over the underlying layers, resulting in a moderately porous layer having randomly located voids of varying size and shape. A final layer of particulate matter is then applied over the polymer layer, and the resin is allowed to set completely. In an optional step, the surface of the final product is finished to smooth it, during which some of the larger particulate matter is dislodged and removed, enhancing the uneven rough appearance of the veneer.

Abstract: A method for patterning a recording medium selectively thermally couples a recording medium and a heat source to alter a chemical composition of the recording medium. An apparatus for patterning a recording medium has a heat source for generating and directing an incident thermal wave to a recording medium so as to alter a chemical composition of the recording medium, and a controller for coordinating a mutual position of the incident thermal wave and the recording medium for inducing a direct thermal coupling between the recording medium and the heat source.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method for producing a biomimetic membrane, a biomimetic membrane and the applications of said membrane.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a camouflage tire suitable for use in various vehicle use environments, wherein it is desirable to reduce or eliminate a viewer's visual perception of the tire against the given environmental background.

Abstract: A process for the manufacturing of decorative surface element, which element comprises a core of a fibrous material, an upper decorative surface and a protective upper wear layer of lacquer. The process comprises the steps; a) Orienting the fibre closest to the upper surface in predetermined pattern, b) applying pigmentation on the upper surface and c) applying protective lacquer on the upper surface.

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.