Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for forming a laser induced thermal dye transfer. The apparatus includes a dye receiving element having a ridge formed along a periphery thereof for receiving a dye donor element thereon with the only physical contact between the elements occurring along the ridge. Separation between the donor and receiver elements is maintained by the ridge by mounting the donor and receiver against mounting plates that hold the elements flat. A vacuum is applied to the holding plates to attract the elements towards their respective holders.

Abstract: A system for reducing the generation of particulate in the use of an optical pellicle is disclosed. The system is designed for use with a pellicle having a pellicle membrane with an underside and an upper side, and a pellicle frame having inner, outer, top and bottom sides. The underside of the pellicle membrane is tensed over and bonded to the top of the pellicle frame. A first adhesive layer coating is applied to the inner side of the pellicle frame and extends continuously over the top of the pellicle frame. This reduces the likelihood of a generation of particulate as a result of improper formation of the adhesive layer, or as a result of degradation of the adhesive layer over time. It is normal that this first adhesive layer cover substantially all of the inner and outer surfaces of the pellicle frame. In one embodiment of the present invention, the first adhesive layer also extends continuously across the underside of the pellicle membrane.

Abstract: A strut supported framework for mounting directly to the back side of posters and other works of art which holds the paper skin of the poster taut. The framework is composed of elongated semi-ridged, strut members bonded to adjustable low tack adhesive tape. Strut members can be easily cut to fit the back side perimeter of most any standard sized posters. The strut members are stabilized by plastic like, adhesive bonded corner support braces positioned over the right angles formed by the framework. The framework parts include four frame members and four corner support braces. The frame members are slit from a simi-ridged foamboard like material. The corner support braces are die-cut shaped pieces of plastic like material. Both the frame struts and the corner support braces are bonded to one side of a double sided, pressure sensitive, adhesive tape with a release liner protecting the revere side of the adhesive tape.

Abstract: A capture layer is disclosed for delayed entrapment of contaminant particles that may accumulate on the inner surface of a pellicle during or after pellicle fabrication. The capture layer is formed of a delayed curable material that resides on the inner surface of the pellicle, which pellicle includes a pellicle membrane and a peripheral pellicle frame. The material may reside on the underside of the membrane and the inside surface of the frame. In one embodiment the material is a gel and is formed from an epoxy-based mixture. A pellicle system is also disclosed which includes the capture layer. A method for delayed entrapment of such contaminant particles is also disclosed which involves the forming of a time-delay-curable capture layer on the inner side of a pellicle.

Abstract: A display board, panel, or wall section comprising a penetrating object permeable panel and a ferromagnetic apertured material, preferably a wire mesh, disposed on a surface of the permeable panel, the apertured material being exposed to view and being adapted to receive magnetic means for securing an item to be displayed on the display panel and further having an aperture size such that the permeable panel is adapted to receive a penetrating object, such as a tack, for securing an item to be displayed on the display panel through an aperture of the apertured material.

Abstract: A leather surround for decorative articles of the type which could be used with key rings or luggage tags, golf bag tags, and the like includes a pair of leather sheets, one of which includes an opening A decorative article, such as a pictorial work or logo, is inserted between the leather sheets so that the portion to be displayed is visible at the opening. Preferably the article is made from a non-ferrous metal, such as pewter. The article includes a flange surrounding at least a portion of its outer boundary adapted to be received between the two sheets of leather In the preferred embodiment, the leather sheets are stitched together around the outside of the article and flange and an adhesive is applied to the rear surface of the article to assist in bonding the article to the leather sheet and maintaining a desired orientation.

Abstract: A process of fusing a dye-receiving element for thermal dye transfer suitable for forming a slide for projection viewing, the dye-receiving element comprising a polymeric central dye image-receiving section and a polymeric frame section extending around the periphery of the central section, the dye image-receiving section containing a thermally-transferred dye image, the process comprising simultaneously subjecting the element to both conductive and convective heating.

Abstract: A dye-receiving element for thermal dye transfer comprising a polymeric dye image-receiving section having a surface which has been roughened to provide an average surface roughness Ra of from about 0.03 to about 0.5 .mu.m as determined by ANSI D-46.1 (1985). The roughened image-receiving surface does not exhibit as much image smear as non-roughened surfaces which are subjected to fusing after imaging.

Abstract: Frames for displaying articles are made of polymeric marble comprised of a matrix forming amount of a resin composition and a filler to provide a marbleized appearance.

Abstract: Apparatus and a process for controllably separating a framed working area of a membrane from the remainder of the membrane is disclosed. The process includes tensioning an expanse of membrane material and fastening a support frame to the membrane to define a working portion of the same. A bondable polymeric material is applied to form a continuous border outward of the outer edge of the support frame. Additionally, the framed working area of the membrane is separated from the remainder of the membrane by cutting the membrane outward of the support frame.

Abstract: A dye-receiving element for thermal dye transfer suitable for forming a slide for projection viewing comprising a polymeric central dye image-receiving section and an integral polymeric frame section extending around the periphery of the central dye image-receiving section, the frame section being from about 1/2 to about 3 mm thick and the central dye image-receiving section preferably being thinner than the frame section. Such integral receiver-frames do not require post-imaging framing and mounting assembly operations in order to be viewable in slide projectors, and are particularly advantageously used in laser thermal dye transfer systems.

Abstract: An informative card such as a baseball trading card is made of sheet metal and is formed so as to be free of sharp edges and pointed corners. Flattened hems around the periphery of the rear side of the card define a raised framing border around indicia which is printed on the rear side. The front side of the card is displaced rearwardly inboard of the hems so as to leave raised peripheral front ledges which define a raised and substantially uninterrupted border around indicia on the front side.

Abstract: A dye-receiving element for thermal dye transfer suitable for forming a focussing tool comprising a polymeric central dye image-receiving section having a substantially planar image receiving surface and a relatively thicker integral polymeric frame section extending around the periphery of said central section, said image receiving surface being formed at an inclined angle relative to the frame section. The invention further includes a process of forming an imaged focussing tool by the steps of a) imagewise-heating a dye-donor element comprising a support having thereon a dye layer, and b) transferring portions of the dye layer in a pattern corresponding to a desired focussing image to a dye-receiving element as described above, and imaged focussing tools obtained by such a process.

Abstract: A color changing transparent plate device comprises transparent plates facing each other with a gap between the plates, the gap being charged with a plurality of fluids having colors and relative densities different from each other and freely moving vertically and a fluid inlet/outlet device through which fluid flows into or out from the gap installed in order to hold an interface of the fluids with freely moving vertically wherein the colorless transparent is contained as the color, wherein the fluid above the interface is a gas and the fluid below the interface is a liquid, wherein the fluids above and below the interface are liquids, wherein the liquids are a transparent liquid and an opaque liquid, wherein the liquids are a colorless transparent liquid and a colored transparent liquid, wherein a spacer is installed in the gap and the spacer and the facing transparent plates are attached, and wherein a fluid inlet/outlet device is formed by a fluid inlet/outlet cylinder and a piston.

Abstract: Glow in the dark artwork which includes a luminescent layer formed of a luminescent material such as a fluorescent or phosphorescent paint or coated layer. The luminescent layer is secured with its luminescent surface covered by image means. The image means has an image formed on its surface via a plurality of image defining opaque and translucent areas. Opaque areas of the image means prevent photons emitted from the excited atoms of the luminescent material from passing through the opaque areas of the image means as light. Translucent areas of the image means allow photons emitted from the excited atoms of the luminescent material to pass through the translucent areas of the image means as light. In this way a glow in the dark image may be produced. Securement means is also provided for securing the luminescent layer to the image means.

Abstract: What is disclosed is a Christmas tree ornament in the form of a folder of heavy paper, cardboard, or other sheet material, provided with slots adapted for receiving a photograph, a window opposite the location of the photograph, a locking tab and corresponding slot for locking the folder in its closed configuration, and a pair of openings aligned when the folder is in its closed configuration which are located for receiving one end of a conventional Christmas tree ornament hanger.

Abstract: A decorative display panel is formed by spaced transparent panes defining a space containing preferably water. A porous tube at the bottom of the space is supplied preferably with air under pressure to generate a curtain of bubbles moving upward in the water. The assembly is illuminated by edge lighting. The unit can be either free-standing, or incorporated in a partition system.

Abstract: A dust-proof film comprising a pellicle frame and a pellicle film spread on one side face of the frame, which is attached to a photomask, a reticle or the like to prevent a foreign substance from adhering to a pattern, wherein a paint is coated on the inner side face of the pellicle frame to form a coating layer, whereby a generation of dust from a surface of the pellicle frame is prevented.

Abstract: This invention relates to decorative strips for shower partitions. The decorative strips are constructed in the form of a circular section.

Abstract: A method of adhering articles to textile wearing apparel involving the steps of laminating a precut article having an upper surface and a lower surface between a clear polyester coating and an adhesive scrim backing to envelope the article and protect it from moisture and scuffing, cutting margins away from the laminated article to form an enveloped article, and applying the enveloped article to wearing apparel at a temperature of approximately 270.degree. F. to 300.degree. F., under a pressure of approximately 30 psi to 50 psi for a period of approximately 8 seconds to 15 seconds. The article becomes firmly adhered to the wearing apparel and remains impervious to moisture after repeated machine washing and drying cycles.

Abstract: A frame adapted for use on a photograph including a flexible conformable sheet having length and width dimensions exceeding the length and width dimensions of the photograph by at least 12.7 millimeter (0.5 inch), a generally centrally located viewing opening having a size and shape adapted to afford viewing of a central portion of the photograph with edge portions of the photograph around the central portion extending along the rear surface of the sheet; and a layer of adhesive along the rear surface of the sheet, the adhesive affording firm adhesion and conformance of the sheet to the edge portions of the photograph to hold the photograph against the frame and adhesion of the sheet around the photograph to a smooth firm surface to thereby support the photograph and frame along the surface, while being removable from the surface and portion of the photograph without damage thereto. The surface to which the frame and photograph is adhered could be that of a wall, refrigerator, etc.

Abstract: A device for mounting a transparency. The device includes back and front sheets of transparent plastic. The outer edges of the sheets are continuously bonded together. In a preferred embodiment, an opaque coating on the front sheet defines one or more generally rectangular windows. Each window is variously sized to permit the transparency to be viewed therethrough but to prevent light from leaking around the transparency. The sheets are continuously bonded together along three sides of the window to form a pocket between the sheets for mounting the transparency. A slit is formed along a fourth side of the window for inserting the transparency into the pocket.

Abstract: A method for adhering holograms to textile wearing apparel involving the steps of laminating a precut hologram between a clear polyester coating and an adhesive scrim backing to envelope the hologram and protect it from moisture and scuffing, cutting margins away from the laminated hologram to form an enveloped hologram, and applying the enveloped hologram to wearing apparel at a temperature of approximately 270.degree. to 300.degree. F. under a pressure of approximately 30 to 50 psi for a period of approximately 8 to 15 seconds. The hologram becomes firmly adhered to the wearing apparel and remains impervious to moisture after repeated machine washing and drying cycles.

Abstract: A multipurpose board has a frame circumferentially supporting at least three transparent plates with segregating clearances between the transparent plates. Particles only partially fill each segregating clearance, the particles in the respective segregating clearances having different physical properties. When the board is moved, particle flow in each segregating clearance permitted by the only partial filling thereof forms varieties of wave-like combinations when movement is stopped, which are visible three dimentionally through the transparent plates.

Abstract: Framing apparatus for framing snap shots and the like, including a flexible rectangular-shaped transparent sheet having an opaque frame printed about its perimeter. A pressure sensitive adhesive coating is coextensive with the aforementioned opaque frame. A transparent sheet of much thinner gauge than the first-mentioned sheet is releasably secured to the pressure sensitive adhesive coating. The unassembled frame is moved about the snap shot or picture to be framed. The transparent nature of the assembly facilitates viewing of the picture therebeneath, enabling the user to select any portion of the picture. A writing instrument may be employed to form an outline of the frame on the picture, or the thin gauge cover sheet may be removed and the photograph pressed against the heavy plastic sheet. The portion of the picture extending beyond the frame is cut away from the part of the picture being framed.

Abstract: A method of producing dispersion hardened metal alloys which incorporate highly reactive metals or their alloys whose oxides are not adapted to be easily reduced. According to the method, the highly reactive metals of their alloys are added as powder particles to a solution of a salt of a reducible metal which is to form a metallic matrix in which the reactive metals or their alloys are to be integrated, after which the solution is atomized to form particles from which the solvent is removed to yield the final product of the metal matrix with the highly reactive metals or their alloys integrated therein as a second phase.

Abstract: A new art form providing a plurality of optical images and illusions by the novel coaction of at least two diverse line and curve patterns disposed in spaced generally parallel relationship to each other, preferably with a frame.

Abstract: A device for producing a three dimensional landscape scene within a sand/fluid environment. The device comprises a pair of plates having opposing interior surfaces which define an enclosed plate volume. These surfaces are separated by a distance of 0.02 to 0.06 inches to create a controlled environment conductive for random flow of a variety of sand or particle materials with differing densities and particle sizes. Particular particle sizes and dimensions are provided to enable resolution of colors as the particles fall within the fluid by force of gravity. Three dimensional detail is developed by reason of fine contrast particles cooperating in combination with shading particles and moderate sized particles all entrained within the liquid medium.

Abstract: A display and storage case is provided for a memorial flag which is folded into the shape of an isosceles triangle according to military custom. The case includes two frame members, a base plate and a pair of transparent panels which hold the folded flag under compression so that the flag will not sag or unfold while maintained in the case.

Abstract: A hard enclosing container which is transparent at least at its front wall, has a metallic plate bearing indicia contained therein. An enclosing layer of a viscous adhesive agent is stuck to all surfaces of the plate and fills the container. The layer includes at least a front covering layer which is transparent. To form the article, the plate is adhered to a bottom wall of the container by a lower covering layer of the adhesive agent or by a pressure sensitive adhesive double coated sheet. Viscous adhesive agent is charged to the container. The container is then sealed by a transparent hard top cover. Alternatively, the container with the plate stuck therein can be closed by the transparent hard top cover and the adhesive agent is then charged into the sealed container expelling any air trapped therein. The sealed container can be evacuated prior to charging.

Abstract: Transparency medium for automatic printers comprises transparent film sheet with central window area and surrounding margin area and a backer sheet bonded to the film sheet only in the margin area. Preferably, a sequence of such backer sheets, including side edges suitable for automatic feeding (such as by tractor pin holes) on a separate edge portion, are separably connected at adjoining forward and rearward edge lines to form a fan folded supply of indefinite length.

Abstract: A replaceable air freshener unit adapted to be adhered to an automobile window to suffuse the interior of the vehicle with a pleasing or stimulating aroma. The unit is constituted by a bipartite rectangular frame and a transparent film chip having artwork thereon, the film chip being mounted behind the back section of the frame. The rear surface of the chip is coated with a layer of pressure-sensitive adhesive whereby the unit may be attached to the window at an appropriate site. The front section of the frame is impregnated with a volatile fragrance that is thematically related to the artwork and slowly released into the atmosphere. When the fragrance is exhausted, the unit may readily be detached from the window and replaced.

Abstract: A place mat includes a thin, substantially flat rectangular member having opposite surfaces; one of the surfaces serving as an operative surface, and at least one surface of the member being liquid impervious; a tab having indicia thereon, formed on one edge of the member; and a fold line formed in the member to permit folding of the member thereabout into a configuration of a file folder such that the tab extends beyond respective edges of the member. To use the place mat, the member is folded along the fold line to form the place mat into the configuration of the file folder. The folded place mat is then stored in a file cabinet under the indicia, with the tab and indicia thereon being exposed for view in the file cabinet. The place mat is then removed from the file cabinet for use, unfolded along the fold line to provide a substantially flat place mat, and placed on a surface for receiving foodstuffs on the liquid impervious surface.

Abstract: A decorative emblem is formed by insertion of a decorative foil shape into a preformed bezel and encapsulating and bonding the foil to the bezel with a fluent, curable plastic material. After an initial casting of a measured amount of plastic onto the base of the bezel, the foil is inserted and seated. A second cast of plastic forms a cap contiguous with the sides of the bezel and encapsulates the foil and bonds it within the bezel. Upon curing, the plastic cap gives a lens effect to the decorative emblem. The emblem may be equipped with attachment means for fastening it to an automobile, appliance, or other object. In alternative embodiments, a decorative foil shape is placed directly onto the base of the bezel, and a fluent, curable plastic material is cast thereon. As the plastic material cures, it migrates around the edges and under the foil to at least partially encapsulate the foil and bond it within the bezel.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing finished articles of flexible plastic material includes formation of a sheet of plastic material with a first portion having a raised pattern on one surface thereof and at least partially curing the sheet. The first portion having the raised pattern is removed from the sheet and a second portion of plastic material having a raised pattern on one surface and of a color contrasting with that of the first portion is formed in that area of the sheet from which the first portion was removed. A plastic backing layer is formed on the sheet and the article thus formed is cured. The backing layer may be of a color contrasting with that of the second portion of plastic material, or the first portion may be allowed to remain and its back surface may be coated with a layer of plastic of a color contrasting with that of the first portion after which the backing layer is applied.

Abstract: A composite frame for a free-standing membrane is provided. The frame includes a first frame member which is to be mounted to a planar surface such that a working area is defined on the planar surface, a second frame member for peripherally supporting the membrane, and a removable mounting between the first and second frame members so that the membrane protects and covers the working area. Another aspect of the disclosure is a method for using a pellicle, which includes the steps of mounting a first frame member to a planar surface such that a working area is defined, and then removably mounting a pellicle to the first frame member so that the working area is protected by the pellicle.

Abstract: A canvas for use by an artist for painting includes a flexible substrate material having a surface coating of a refined animal glue which forms a translucent glaze as the painting surface. The substrate is preferably open-weave nylon having a denier value of between 200 and 400 denier, inclusive. A binding intermediate coating of either rabbit skin glue or a whitener may be used to increase the binding of the surface coating to the substrate, and the coated substrate may be mounted on a stretching framework and, if desired, backed by butcher's paper. The production process for this canvas includes the steps of coating a sheet of the substrate with a binding material, drying this first coat, glazing the material with a glazing compound that dries to a translucent layer, and drying the glazed sheet. This process may be a continuous stream production process.

Abstract: A card assembly comprising a backing sheet, a first transparent film bonded to the backing sheet along one side margin area portion through a first pressure sensitive adhesive coating, a transparent releasable film attached to the first transparent film along the remaining area portion, a cut line of a generally closed-loop configuration formed through the first transparent film and the releasable film to define a configuration corresponding to the circumference of a thin article to be interposed between the releasable sheet and the backing sheet, the configuration defining margin area portion on the releasable sheet being along the entire circumference thereof, and a second transparent film secured to the outer surface of the first transparent film along the entire surface thereof through an adhesive coating.

Abstract: A decorative emblem is formed by producing a decorative surface, which may be printed and embossed, on a foil substrate. An integral bezel is then formed around the periphery of the decorative surface. Fluent plastic is cast onto the decorative surface to form a meniscus over it. Upon curing, the plastic cap gives a lens effect to the decorative surface. The decorative emblem may be adapted with several types of different attachment means, such as an edge adhesive strip, for fastening it to the intended surface such as an automobile, appliance, or other object.

Abstract: An ornament including a plurality of hoops having fabric mounted therein. The hoops are arranged so that the plane of each hoop intersects the plane of the remaining hoops. Various embodiments are disclosed wherein the external geometric configuration of the hoops and the quantity of hoops is varied. Further, a variety of fabric patterns are attached to the hoops. In one embodiment, two pieces of fabric are joined together at their centerline with the centerline the being positioned in line with the inner intersection of two hoops. The outer edge of one fabric is then attached to a hoop while extending through the plane of the hoop to the intersection hoop line and then outwardly with the opposite edges of the fabric attached to the remaining hoop. The second fabric is attached in like fashion to the two remaining portions of the hoops not having fabric attached thereto.

Abstract: A variable collage in which art objects are removably mountable on a rectangular panel of expanded metal held flat by a surrounding frame into which the panel is inset, mounting being accomplished by hooks on the backs of the art objects engageable over the strands of the expanded metal panel.

Abstract: A wall ornament for shower and tub enclosures comprises a full scale photograph of a male or female, or other print of interest, which is die cut closely around its periphery and sealed and enclosed within a thin transparent envelope of a plastic material. A plurality of strips of pressure sensitive adhesive are spaced over and secured upon the rear of the envelope for snug and supportive engagement with the wall of a shower or tub enclosure.

Abstract: A method of making a decorative mirrored image includes the steps of cutting a glass mirror to a predetermined size and shape and then removing a portion of the mirrored surface to form a vignetted pattern. The mirrored surface is then cleaned of chemical residue and material and a photo is attached over the glass portion having the mirrored surface removed and the mirror and image are mounted for display in a Christmas ornament, or the like. A Christmas ornament apparatus has an ornament housing with a means for attaching or supporting the ornament and a plurality of glass surfaces attached to the ornament housing. One or more of the glass surfaces is a mirrored surface surrounding an image and mounted to the Christmas ornament.

Abstract: A fancy article for use as greeting gifts such as greeting cards. The article comprises a metal sheet such as a tin plate having on its front surface an imprint of an image of a picture, design or other visible representation, or a combination thereof, and a planar writing medium fixedly disposed on a back side of the metal sheet such that one of opposite surfaces thereof faces toward the back surface of the metal sheet. The planar writing medium is made of a material suitable for writing on the other surface thereof. The metal sheet is preferably formed with a peripheral rib so as to define a shallow receptacle which is filled with a suitable filler. The filler has the planar writing medium or is covered with the same. The writing medium may be provided on a backing sheet member in which is embedded the metal sheet, so that the peripheral portions of the backing sheet member form a frame for the image carried on the metal sheet.

Abstract: A framed, multi-faceted, appearing, colored picture, or design, such as of a spray of flowers is formed by a frame, having a front surface, or rim, in a single flat plane, the frame enclosing the colored picture and the picture being divided, in its entirety, into at least two, and preferably not more than about twenty, flat planar surfaces, each angularly disposed to the other and angularly disposed to the plane of the rim. Adjacent such surfaces meet along angular elongated ridges and angular elongated valleys to provide a desired multi-faceted appearance to the colored flower, or other, picture. The angularly disposed, flat planar surfaces are each of different outline and different area to avoid uniformity.

Abstract: Foil, (aluminum) is secured to a plastic backing member (Styrofoam), and depressions made in the front face of the foil, which extend into the backing member, and are held by those members. The depressions are made in a pattern to form a picture, and plastic materials are placed in the depressions, that are transparent, of different colors, and of convex shape, acting as lenses. The plastic material includes casting resin, thixotropic thickening material, a dye, and a catalyst. Another form includes a rigid backing member and a stencil secured there to, and foil over the stencil, and the depressions are made in the foil, following the pattern in the stencil. Another embodiment includes a shaping form having raised elements and foil thereover; both are placed in a mold, and plastic material in fluent form placed over the foil and enabled to expand, the plastic material then constituting the backing member.

Abstract: A process and the resulting article for fabricating a customized glass greeting card wherein two sheets of glass with a design etched there on are each placed in a frame and hinged together on one side thereof to resemble a folded card. Unetched areas of the glass appear relatively dark compared with translucent areas whether the frames are open or closed together.

Abstract: A method of making and exhibiting a decorative art work, particularly paintings or the like, wherein an outline of a desired design is first applied to a surface of a light transparent softenable substrate, such as a thermoplastic polymer. Portions of the substrate at the outline are thereafter softened through the application of heat or solvent and decorative materials, such as paint or reflective particles, are embedded within and encapsulated by the softened substrate to provide a design having depth of field and a substantially three-dimensional configuration when light is directed through the substrate from at least one direction.

Abstract: An improved frame design for retaining a coin, medallion and other jewelry objects wherein a frame of one standard size can accommodate similarly shaped objects within a range of differing thicknesses. An improved shim which allows a standard size frame to accommodate similarly shaped objects whose perimeter dimensions are small enough so that the object can move inside the frame. An improved retaining ring which serves to impede the rotation of a circular object inside a cylindrical frame.

Abstract: A system for constructing a variety of organic forms including an elongated flexible sheet repeatedly 180.degree. bendable about multiple crossing and spaced axes running through the sheet and with a longitudinal axis of symmetry and similar reentrants along edges of the sheet symmetrically arranged on two sides of the axis, fastening pairs with elements of each pair arranged symmetrically on opposite sides of the axis and further constructed in staggered form for transverse axis symmetry reassignment of fastener element pairs, the fastening elements being constructed and arranged for pair assignment and fastening in multiple combinations to define different organic forms, and the sheet being sufficiently stiff to produce in at least one of the organic form fastened together configurations, a self-supporting shape.