Translucent Outer Layer Patents (Class 428/203)
  • Publication number: 20080233352
    Abstract: An image-bearing article comprising an interlayer bearing an image and a white layer or another colored layer. The image-bearing article can be coated on the image-bearing side and over the image with an adhesion promoter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Rebecca L. Smith, Thomas R. Phillips, Richard Allen Hayes
  • Publication number: 20080233365
    Abstract: A decorative laminate (10) includes a polymer or engineered film with fluorine (100), a decorative pattern (20) visible through the polymer film (100), and a substrate (200) supporting the polymer film (100) and decorative pattern (20). An embossing layer (70) may be included between the polymer film (100) and substrate (200). The embossing layer (70) or substrate (200) or both may contain one or more fire retardant materials such as halogens. The decorative laminate (10) has a resistance to sustained ignition rated as at least M1 according to French Epiradiateur Test NFP 92-501, and a smoke index value of 80 or less, a classification of F3 or better according to French standard NF F-16-101 based on French Tests NF X 70-100 and NF X 10-702, and a resistance to graffiti in a range of G0-G1 as measured by French Graffiti test NF F 31-112.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2005
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Robert G. Pierson, Dale Onderak, Mark D. Tennant
  • Patent number: 7427435
    Abstract: A metallized film and a process for making the film are disclosed. In general, the metallized film includes a polymeric film layer that is coated with a polyester coating composition. A metal layer is then formed on top of the polyester coating. The polyester coating acts as a tie layer between the metal layer and the underlying film. The polyester film composition may be formed from, in one embodiment, isophthalic acid, a sulfomonomer, and 2-methyl 1,3-propane diol. The above diol has been found to improve adhesion between the metal layer and the polymeric film layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2008
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Polyester Film, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Giles Posey
  • Publication number: 20080220227
    Abstract: A label incorporates slip agent and antistat directly into the polymer layers from which the label is constructed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2006
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Inventors: Cecil M. Keeney, Bernard E. Pemberton, James D. Combs, Gregory L. Brown
  • Publication number: 20080211866
    Abstract: This invention concerns vision control panels and a method of UV inkjet printing vision control panels. A substantially imperforate light permeable material is partially printed with a ‘print pattern’ comprising a base layer and a design layer comprising a design colour layer. The method is limited to digital UV inkjet printing of all the superimposed layers required to make such panels. Optionally, the method uses a novel printhead array with a novel order of ink colour supply and/or novel software to enable the required build-up of ink layers, for example of black, optional silver, white, cyan, magenta, yellow and process black colours. Printing is preferably arranged so that the base layer and design colour layer are printed in the minimum number of passes of the printhead assembly of the digital UV inkjet printer to achieve the desired effect, preferably in one pass of the printhead assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2002
    Publication date: September 4, 2008
    Applicant: CONTRA VISION LIMITED
    Inventor: George Roland Hill
  • Patent number: 7419717
    Abstract: A thermoplastic laminate plank is described wherein the thermoplastic laminate plank comprises a core, a print layer, and optionally an overlay. The core comprises at least one thermoplastic material and has a top surface and bottom surface wherein a print layer is affixed to the top surface of the core and an overlay layer is affixed to the top surface of the print layer. Optionally, an underlay layer can be located and affixed between the bottom surface of the print layer and the top surface of the core. In addition, a method of making the thermoplastic laminate plank is further described which involves extruding at least one thermoplastic material into the shape of the core and affixing a laminate on the core, wherein the laminate comprises an overlay affixed to the top surface of the print layer and optionally an underlay layer affixed to the bottom surface of the print layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Assignee: Mannington Mills, Inc.
    Inventors: Hao A. Chen, Richard Judd
  • Publication number: 20080193692
    Abstract: A transparent/translucent double-layer of plastic sheet material which transmits light is provided, comprising a pair of transparent/translucent sheet materials, wherein one side may be of matte finish, the other side color coated, wherein the sheet materials include decorative metal articles located therebetween and are joined together with the matte finish facing outward. The material may display a high level of luminosity and the appearance of being lit-from-within. A light transmitting fire-rated panel including a spring-loaded frame is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2007
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Inventor: Mary Boone WELLINGTON
  • Publication number: 20080187716
    Abstract: There is provided a mobile terminal comprising a back lighting structure. The mobile terminal according to an embodiment comprises a light emitting device and a case part provided on the light emitting device and formed of a transmissive material. The mobile terminal further comprises a shielding coating layer laminated on a region excluding a specific region of the case part and formed of a shielding material so that the specific region of the case part transmits light.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Indong Yu, Heeseok Noh, Wonseok Choi
  • Publication number: 20080187728
    Abstract: A repositionable and substantially transparent multi-layer anti-frost film assembly comprising a film and an anti-frost layer formed from a polyurethane-film forming composition effective to provide the layer with anti-frost properties at temperatures that alternate between ?23° C. and 65° C. Optionally, an anti-frost film assembly comprises an adhesive layer. The anti-frost film assembly to be applied with any of a variety of substantially transparent substrates to provide condensation-resistant articles, including refrigerator doors and panels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2006
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Matthew Borowiec, Michael M. Laurin, David M. Vignovic, Kwan Hongladarom, Charlie W. Wood
  • Publication number: 20080160263
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for fabricating a front filter for a plasma display panel (PDP). In particular, the present invention relates to a front filter for a PDP comprising functional films including a conductive mesh film (2) having a black treated layer (2a), an optical film (1c) and an antireflection film (4) laminated on a glass substrate (3), wherein a transparent glass substrate (3) is used without a black ceramic stripe, which is formed at the rear side of the glass substrate (3) to improve visibility. Instead, composition and thickness of the oxide film forming the black treated layer (2a) of the conductive mesh film (2) are adjusted to attain comparable or better visibility, as compared with conventional filters. The minimized one-step fabricating process of the present invention provides advantages in terms of cost effectiveness and environment friendliness.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2006
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Inventors: Kyoo Choong Cho, Chan Hong Park, Byong Kook Park
  • Patent number: 7378143
    Abstract: The invention relates to a textured surface covering having a hot melt wear layer without distortion of the visual image of the textured substrate. The wear layer substantially follows the contours of the substrate with minimum change in thickness of the wear layer over the textured surface and provides an aesthetically pleasing three dimensional appearance to the textured surface of the substrate. The wear layer exhibits significant clarity and visual depth, as well as improved maintenance (cleanability) properties. The resulting product has a visual image clarity reflecting any texture in the substrate including very light reflective (lenticular moray) embossings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Assignee: AWI Licensing Company
    Inventors: Donald E. Schneider, William M. McQuate, Peter A. Christie
  • Publication number: 20080113133
    Abstract: Deep drawn transparent thermoplastic polymeric film having anti-fog properties, useful for packaging moisture releasing products, such as foods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2005
    Publication date: May 15, 2008
    Applicant: CFS KEMPTEN GmbH
    Inventors: Tobias Fackler, Christoph Schweitzer, Walter Bernig, Bernard Dujardin
  • Patent number: 7369294
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2008
    Assignee: IDC, LLC
    Inventors: Brian J. Gally, William J. Cummings
  • Patent number: 7332208
    Abstract: The invention relates to a card having a card base body (20) and a plastic layer (30) joined thereto. According to the invention, the delimiting edge(s) of the plastic layer (30) is/are set back from the card edge(s) and comprise(s) projections that terminate with the edge(s) of the card base body (20) in a flush manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2008
    Assignee: Interlock AG
    Inventor: Werner Vogt
  • Patent number: 7303810
    Abstract: A synthetic fire-resistant resin includes one or more of a polycarbonate resin material, and/or a polyester resin material mixed with a flame-retardant, such as a bis-diphenyldiphosphate flame-retardant. Alternatively, a mixture of polycarbonate resin material mixed with polyester resin material can be capped with a fire-resistant film. The resin sheet can be made at a thickness such that the resin sheet is structurally useful as a conventional building material. Furthermore the resin sheet can be made transparent, translucent, or colored, as desired for architectural purposes. The resin sheet further has a Vicat temperature that renders the extruded resin sheet easy to work with using conventional manufacturing techniques, and strong enough to be used in a wide variety of indoor and outdoor environments. In one implementation, fire-resistant resin sheets can be combined with a decorative image layer to form a decorative panel that can be used in Class A building environments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: 3form, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond Lynn Goodson, R. Talley Goodson, John C. Morley
  • Patent number: 7290803
    Abstract: A reflective printed article includes a substrate having a top surface and a bottom surface with a graphic image printed thereon. A reflective or glossy ink layer is printed over the entire top surface of the substrate. A graphic image is printed over the reflective ink layer. The image may cover the entire portion of the reflective layer or only selected portions thereof. The graphic image includes hidden or latent images printed within the graphic image layers. An optional glossy layer of transparent ink may be printed over the graphic image. A textured pattern of lines is printed or applied in sections over the optional glossy layer or graphical image, with each line in the section printed at the same angle or orientation, with the lines of adjacent sections printed at different angles in order to reflect light in different directions to create the illusion of depth, three-dimensionality, hidden images and motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Assignee: Serigraph Inc.
    Inventors: Joel Scott Scarbrough, Daniel C. Faul, Louis LaSorsa
  • Patent number: 7285319
    Abstract: An engraved surface in a metallic workpiece and an engraving method therefor, for use in providing a decorative metallic surface. An engraved pattern is formed in a workpiece prior to the formation of an electroplated layer that continuously extends over the engraved pattern and adjacent surface areas of the workpiece. The engraved pattern includes wall-cut engravings inscribed in the workpiece that are used to define outer boundaries of the engraved pattern. The substantially vertical walls obtained by such wall-cut engravings permits a sharp, well-defined boundary between the engraved pattern and adjacent painted surfaces. A mask material is first applied to cover the engraved pattern, and then trimmed to create the sharp edge at the boundary of the engraved pattern. This permits a paint layer to be formed immediately adjacent to the engraved pattern, providing a decorative juxtaposition in an electroplated metallic surface after removal of the mask layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Inventors: Jason Austin Steiner, Sandy Austin Steiner
  • Patent number: 7279218
    Abstract: Disclosed is a coated body for members of an electronic device, comprising a substrate covered, on the surface side and back side thereof, with respective thermal radiative coatings having thermal radiation property, wherein a difference ?T1 (=T1B?T1A) between Temperature T1A, at Position T1, of the coated body used as a sample and Temperature T1B, at Position T2, of the substrate not covered with a coating used as another sample is 1.5° C. or greater, said temperatures being measured using a thermal radiation property evaluating apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1; and whereby satisfying its essential properties (maintenance of air tightness to block water or dust and reduction in size and weight), while reducing the temperature inside of the members of an electronic device (thermal radiation property).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Assignee: Kobe Steel, Ltd.
    Inventors: Takeshi Watase, Yasuo Hirano, Kazuo Okumura, Tetsuya Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 7255911
    Abstract: Described is a laminate body, in particular a laminate foil, comprising a laser-sensitive layer and an identification element, for example a diffraction and/or hologram structure, a reflection layer, a printed image or the like, which is provided in a second layer and/or in the laser-sensitive layer, wherein the laser-sensitive layer has a marking produced by laser action, which is positioned in accurate register relationship relative to the identification element In addition the subject of the invention is a method of enhancing the forgery-proof nature of such a laminate body in which the laminate body is irradiated by means of a laser so that produced in the laser-sensitive layer is a laser-induced marking positioned in accurate register relationship with the position of the identification element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Assignee: Leonard Durz GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Norbert Lutz, Gerhard Zinner
  • Patent number: 7220471
    Abstract: An insert film having a printed part is integrally molded to a surface of a panel body made of a resin by an insert molding. The printed part is printed on a first binder layer applied to a resin film and also is formed on the resin film in a state such of being sealed with the first binder layer and a second binder layer applied on the printed part. The printed part is formed as a trimming portion (blackout) along a peripheral portion of the resin film, and an area is formed between the peripheries of the first binder layer and the second binder layer and the periphery of the resin film.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toyoda Jidoshokki Seisakusho
    Inventors: Kotaro Oami, Masaaki Suzumura
  • Patent number: 7205041
    Abstract: An ink-printed substrate web exhibiting ink rub-off resistance is disclosed. The substrate web is printed with an ink composition to form an ink film on the substrate web. The ink-printed substrate web being coated with a coating composition to form a coating film on the ink film. At least one of the ink composition and the coating composition forms a cross-linked structure within the film thereof and forms a cross-linked structure with the other composition between the ink film and the coating film. A disposable absorbent article using the ink-printed substrate web is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Radhakrishnan Janardanan Nair, Shunketsu Sue
  • Patent number: 7193631
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method of displaying an image on a display device having first and second sides, said image including an light restricting silhouette pattern having a plurality of first transparent or translucent areas, and at least one design layer having at least one color, said at least one design layer being visible from one side of said display device and substantially less visible from the other side, said image being substantially transparent or translucent as viewed from the other side, comprising the steps: 1) providing at least a definition of said design layer to a computer; 2) generating a computerized version of said design layer with the computer; 3) outputting the computerized version of said design layer to said display device, the computerized version of said design layer being modified to subdivide said design layer into a plurality of second discrete transparent or translucent areas and other areas, and 4) displaying said modified design layer and said silhouette pattern
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Bruno Mueller, William E. Bird
  • Patent number: 7169460
    Abstract: A thermoplastic laminate plank is described wherein the thermoplastic laminate plank comprises a core, a print layer, and optionally an overlay. The core comprises at least one thermoplastic material and has a top surface and bottom surface wherein a print layer is affixed to the top surface of the core and an overlay layer is affixed to the top surface of the print layer. Optionally, an underlay layer can be located and affixed between the bottom surface of the print layer and the top surface of the core. In addition, a method of making the thermoplastic laminate plank is further described which involves extruding at least one thermoplastic material into the shape of the core and affixing a laminate on the core, wherein the laminate comprises an overlay affixed to the top surface of the print layer and optionally an underlay layer affixed to the bottom surface of the print layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: Mannington Mills, Inc.
    Inventors: Hao A. Chen, Richard Judd
  • Patent number: 7163598
    Abstract: An optical waveguide having a optical waveguide path capable of securing a high light propagation characteristic regardless of the type of a supporting base, provided with a multilayer circuit board, an optical waveguide path arranged on the multilayer circuit board, a light receiving element, IC chips, and a light emitting element, the optical waveguide path formed on a transparent substrate excellent in flatness and transferred to the multilayer circuit board. The light propagation loss becomes small, and a signal to be transmitted at a high speed being transmitted as a light signal and a signal which can be transmitted at a relatively low speed being transmitted as an electrical signal, whereby the signal propagation delay which becomes the problem when a signal is transmitted by only electrical wiring is overcome, and the influence of electromagnetic noise becomes small.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Akihiko Okubora, Tsuyoshi Ogawa
  • Patent number: 7135217
    Abstract: The present invention is in the field of laminated glass panels comprising multiple layers of polymer sheets with patterned light transmission qualities and methods of producing and using the same. More specifically, the present invention is in the field of laminated glass panels featuring novel patterns formed by two printed patterns supported on one or more layers of polymeric sheet material, such as polyethylene terephthalate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Solutia Incorporated
    Inventor: Angela Marie Lansberry
  • Patent number: 7135219
    Abstract: In a composite pane having a film laminate which adhesively connects two rigid panes to one another to form a pane assembly and comprises at least one colored adhesive film and at least one uncolored adhesive film which can be fused on during production of the pane assembly, according to the invention, at least one intermediate layer is provided between the two differently colored fused-on adhesive films and results in a uniform flattening of the mutually facing surfaces of the two adhesive films while being fused on. This results in the finished product being homogeneously colored when being looked through.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Saint-Gobain Glass France
    Inventors: Volkmar Offermann, Walter Goerenz, Ludwig Linden, Michael Steffens, Heinz Schilde
  • Patent number: 7108905
    Abstract: A film and a method of applying the film to a handrail of an escalator or moving walkway are provided. The film can be a single or double layered film. Printed matter, e.g. advertising, can be applied to or between the films. An apparatus and related method for applying the film are also included and rely on the motion of the handrail to unroll a supply of the film, with one or more rollers pressing the film onto the handrail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Inventor: John McLeod
  • Patent number: 7097898
    Abstract: A printed article of the present invention is a printed article comprising: a substrate; (1) a toner image which is made of a thermoplastic resin containing wax component in an amount of 3 to 15 wt %, has a surface gloss level of 5–40, and is formed on the substrate by oilless fusing or (2) a toner image which is made of a thermoplastic resin containing wax component in an amount from 3 to 15 wt % and is formed on the substrate by oilless fusing to have a surface gloss level of 25–45 and have a flat surface with a lot of concavities; and a transparent film which is laminated to the surface of the substrate, on which the toner image is formed, via an adhesive layer. The toner image not projected is easy to see (read) because of no shin. The projected image of the toner image is also excellent both in visibility and transparency. That is, the printed article is useful as a printed article for OHP.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Kazutoshi Fujisawa
  • Patent number: 7090907
    Abstract: An adhesive coated label includes indicia disposed on a facestock and layers of tactile coating selectively applied to discrete areas of the facestock to create distinct raised portions on the label. The tactile coating may be applied to correspond to the location of the indicia, wherein the raised portions overlie the indicia. A separate layer of primer may be applied to the facestock to cover substantially an entire side of the facestock. A plurality of such labels may be provided on a web of release liner which has been formed into a roll. The label may be applied to a container and the raised portions of the label provide tactile feel which enhances the aesthetic qualities of the label and container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: Spear USA, LLC
    Inventors: Richard Fearn, Richard Spear
  • Patent number: 7090906
    Abstract: Fire resistant safety glasses are provided that included wire glasses having another layer of fire resistant material. In certain embodiments, a piece of wire glass has a sheet of fire resistant film adhered thereto. Such glasses have improved impact resistance compared to conventional wire glasses. Fire resistant safety glasses are also provided that combine improved impact resistance and fire protection and in some embodiments, improved thermal insulation, improved reflectivity and shielding against ionizing radiation. Safety glasses of this invention can be made using non-tempered or tempered glass, fire resistant plastics, fire resistant fiberglass, ceramics and other fire resistant glazing materials, and can be made in multiple layers, having one or more pieces of wire glass or fire resistant glazing materials. Fire resistant safety glasses of this invention can be made inexpensively and can have improved properties compared to conventional wire glass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: O'Keeffe's, Inc.
    Inventor: William O'Keeffe
  • Patent number: 7086666
    Abstract: An information-bearing laminar assembly, suitable for use as an identification card, is disclosed. The assembly is characterized by the provision therein of an embedded halftone image security feature that becomes visible essentially only when the assembly is view in transmitted light. The information-bearing laminar assembly comprises an inner information-bearing layer interposed between a first and a second light-transmissive protective outer layer. The inner layer contains both visible information-bearing indicia and an imagewise halftone pattern of laser-ablated microholes. The light-transmissivity of the information-bearing inner layer within said half-tone pattern is imagewise differentiated at each microhole as a function of the microhole's penetration depth. Sandwiched between the protective outer layers, the halftone pattern is imperceptible when the information-bearing laminar assembly is viewed in reflections and perceptible when the information-bearing laminar assembly is viewed in transmission.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Assignee: Digimarc Corporation
    Inventor: Jack T. Richardson
  • Patent number: 7078105
    Abstract: A conformable oriented polymeric film comprising a layer of copolyester derived from: (i) one or more diol(s); (ii) an aromatic dicarboxylic acid; and (iii) one or more aliphatic dicarboxylic acid(s) of the general formula CnH2n(COOH)2 wherein n is 2 to 8, wherein the aromatic dicarboxylic acid is present in the copolyester in an amount of from 60 to 85 mole % based on the total amount of dicarboxylic acid components in the copolyester, wherein the copolyester is a random or alternating copolyester, and wherein after deformation by subjecting and maintaining the film to 7% strain, the stress within the film immediately after deformation dissipates to a residual value of less than 60% of the original value within 10 minutes of said deformation; and use thereof as a conformable medium for signage, advertising, graphic art and other display applications or as an overlaminate for such media.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: DuPont Teijin Films U.S. Limited Partnership
    Inventor: Duncan Henry MacKerron
  • Patent number: 7078090
    Abstract: A decorative foil is in the form of a layer composite structure (1) and comprises at least a transparent base foil (2), a transparent cover layer (4) and a transparent dielectric layer (3) arranged between the base foil (2) and the cover layer (4). When the decorative foil serves as a lamination foil for a substrate (5) the material of the cover layer (4) is an adhesive. A reflective metallic layer (6) is arranged at least in surface portions between the dielectric layer (3) and the cover layer (4) and optionally a metal film (11) is also arranged on the side of the dielectric layer (3) facing the base foil (2). General items of information shown by the decorative foil are produced by means of modulation of the thickness (s) of the dielectric layer (3). Transparent locations (7) form individual items of information, wherein the transparent locations (7) are produced with a laser beam (19) by perforating the metal layer (6; 11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: OVD Kinegram AG
    Inventors: Wayne Robert Tompkin, René Staub
  • Patent number: 7063882
    Abstract: A packaged food product includes a food product and a package enclosing the food product. The package may be formed from a coated, printed film that includes a substrate film including one or more thermoplastic materials and having an average thickness of less than about 15 mils. An image is printed on the print side of the substrate film. A radiation-cured varnish covers the printed image. The radiation-cured varnish was formed by coating the printed image with a radiation-curable varnish that includes one or more polymerizable reactants and optionally one or more photointiators. The radiation-curable varnish is subsequently exposed to radiation sufficient to polymerize at least 90 weight % of the polymerizable reactants. When the coated, printed film is tested according to the FDA migration test protocol, no more than 50 parts per billion total of any of the polymerizable reactants and the optional photoinitiators migrate within 10 days at 40° C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Assignee: Cryovac, Inc.
    Inventors: Mendy J. Mossbrook, David R. Kyle, Marc A. Edlein
  • Patent number: 7052755
    Abstract: A bonding agent having an adhesive and a curing agent is formed on a bonding surface of a dial member. A transfer sheet is attached to a convex side of the dial members, and a release sheet is attached to its bonding agent side to form a dial label. When this dial label is attached to a dial base, the release sheet is peeled off and the dial label is attached to the dial base. The transfer sheet is peeled off together with the excess of the bonding agent, and then the bonding agent is cured by a curing agent. Since the bonding agent in the peripheral portions of the dial members is cured while bonding force is maintained, there is no adherence of fine particles of foreign matter, and a satisfactory appearance can be obtained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Co.
    Inventors: Shigemi Sasaki, Yoshimitsu Misawa
  • Patent number: 6998168
    Abstract: An adhesive security tape (10) includes a base layer (11) and a first adhesive layer (16) is located on a top of the base layer. A first resin layer (17) is coated to an underside of the base layer and a message layer (12) is located on an underside of the first resin layer. A second resin layer (18) is filled in gaps between protrusions on an underside of the message layer. A color layer (13) is coated on an underside of the second resin layer. An adhesive film (14) is located on an underside of the color layer. A second adhesive layer (15) is located on an underside of the adhesive film. The tape has an even color before it is peeled and a clear message is left on the tape after the tape is peeled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Inventor: Nick Yu
  • Patent number: 6989487
    Abstract: The present invention provides an electromagnetic wave shielding film having a plurality of holes formed thereon. The shielding film according to the present invention is made of conductive material and utilized as an independent film, a film disposed on a insulation substrate, or a film disposed on or laminated into a printed circuit board or semiconductor integrated circuit for preventing electromagnetic interference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Inventor: Pon-Wei Hou
  • Patent number: 6986934
    Abstract: A thermoplastic laminate plank is described wherein the thermoplastic laminate plank comprises a core, a print layer, and optionally an overlay. The core comprises at least one thermoplastic material and has a top surface and bottom surface wherein a print layer is affixed to the top surface of the core and an overlay layer is affixed to the top surface of the print layer. Optionally, an underlay layer can be located and affixed between the bottom surface of the print layer and the top surface of the core. In addition, a method of making the thermoplastic laminate plank is further described which involves extruding at least one thermoplastic material into the shape of the core and affixing a laminate on the core, wherein the laminate comprises an overlay affixed to the top surface of the print layer and optionally an underlay layer affixed to the bottom surface of the print layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Mannington Mills, Inc.
    Inventors: Hao A. Chen, Richard Judd
  • Patent number: 6984429
    Abstract: A laminate from which decorative films can be precisely applied to a substrate. The laminate includes a polymeric cover sheet having opposite outer and inner major surfaces. A layer of structured pressure sensitive adhesive is adhered to the inner major surface of the cover sheet. The structured pressure sensitive adhesive has a plurality of spaced passageways extending to at least one edge of the layer of structured pressure sensitive adhesive. A decorative film is adhered to the structured pressure sensitive adhesive. A second layer of pressure sensitive adhesive is adhered to the major surfaces of the decorative film opposite the layer of structured pressure sensitive adhesive. A release liner extends substantially across the second layer of pressure sensitive adhesive and a portion of the structured pressure sensitive adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Kristin L. Thunhorst, James F. Pitzen
  • Patent number: 6946187
    Abstract: A water-vapor-permeable, water-resistant composite material includes a water-resistant, water-vapor-permeable functional layer with a first and a second side, a material attached to the first side of the functional layer, a plurality of discrete polymer spots forming a discontinuous, lining-producing pattern on the surface of the second side of the functional layer, and a water-vapor-permeable cover layer that is joined at least to the polymer spots. Clothing produced from the water-vapor-permeable, water-resistant composite material includes the features listed above.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: Sympatex Technologies, GmbH
    Inventors: Joachim Hürten, Volker Schuster
  • Patent number: 6942912
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a transfer label material for image transfer, comprising a backing carrier material and a transfer layer, said transfer layer at least comprising an image layer, an adhesive layer and a pigmented layer between the adhesive layer and the image layer, said pigmented layer comprising a binder material, at least one white pigment and at least 0.1 wt. %, calculated on the basis of the pigmented layer, of aluminum powder (dry weight).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Heineken Technical Services B.V.
    Inventors: Patrick Johannes Blom, Thomas Lynn Brandt
  • Patent number: 6929846
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a decorative sheet which can be adhered on a surface of an article having a three-dimensional curved surface, even when the operation is conducted in a place of operation at such a temperature as 40 to 60° C., and which does not use vinyl chloride resin. The present invention discloses a decorative sheet having a decorative layer, a protective layer disposed on a surface of the decorative layer, and an adhesive layer formed on the other surface of the decorative layer, wherein the decorative layer comprises a thermoplastic resin, the protective layer is composed of a resin composition comprising an amorphous polyester resin, and both the decorative layer and the protective layer have a glass transition temperature of 20 to 60° C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventor: Kehju Kamiyama
  • Patent number: 6919123
    Abstract: A non-opaque plastic card, having a first sheet layer with a front surface and a back surface, and a second sheet layer having a front surface and a back surface. A filter dye is located on the first sheet layer and/or second sheet layer, and allows visible light to pass through, while blocking infrared light from passing through the card. Graphical elements are printed on different surfaces of the card, with different combinations of backgrounds, to produce 3-dimensional effects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2005
    Assignee: Gemplus
    Inventors: Laurent Labrousse, Cindy Rotondo, Christopher Bailey, Maureen Kane, Denise Bosler
  • Patent number: 6893717
    Abstract: A heat-transfer label (11) including a non-wax, non-silicone release layer or coating (17) for use in decorating an article, such as a glass container, without leaving a visually discernible release residue on the decorated article. In a preferred embodiment, the label includes a transfer portion (21), the transfer portion comprising a protective lacquer layer (23), an ink design layer (25) over the protective lacquer layer, and a heat-activatable adhesive layer (27) over the ink design and protective lacquer layers. The label also includes a support portion (13), the transfer portion being positioned over the support portion for transfer of the transfer portion from the support portion to an article under conditions of heat and pressure. The support portion comprising a carrier layer (15) and a release layer or coating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Inventors: Kuolih Tsai, John W. Geurtsen, James S. Nugent
  • Patent number: 6869658
    Abstract: A printable recording material and the method of using the same. The material includes a substrate and at least one functional coating on at least one side of the substrate insuring printability. The coating includes a binder and inorganic pigments in an amount of at least 50% by weight based on the dry weight of the coating. An image can be embedded in the coating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2005
    Assignee: Zanders Feinpapier AG
    Inventor: Franz Josef Becker
  • Patent number: 6863961
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing an organic EL element according to the present invention comprises the steps of forming pixel electrodes (801), (802), (803) on a transparent substrate (804) and forming on the pixel electrodes by patterning luminescent layers (806), (807), (808) made of an organic compound by means of an ink-jet method. According to this method, it is possible to carry out a high precise patterning easily and in a short time, thereby enabling to carry out optimization for a film design and luminescent characteristic easily as well as making it easy to adjust a luminous efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Satoru Miyashita, Hiroshi Kiguchi, Tatsuya Shimoda, Sadao Kanbe
  • Patent number: 6849149
    Abstract: There are provided a hologram laminate and a hologram label which do not involve any problem in the production process per se of forging preventive labels using a volume hologram, can provide a reliable process of the attainment of forgery preventive effect, and can make difficult to notice the signs of the forgery preventive processing. In applying a protective film 108 onto a hologram 107 through a second pressure-sensitive adhesive 109, the adhesive strength is partially varied. By virtue of this construction, upon separation of the protective film 108, the second pressure-sensitive adhesive 109 is partially left on the hologram 107, so that the fact of the separation can be found out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2005
    Assignee: Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Otaki, Kenji Ueda, Fumiko Noujima
  • Patent number: 6830835
    Abstract: A display film is capable of displaying different images between under a condition with luminous source and under a condition with a luminous source in a small space and capable of clear display by emission under a condition without a luminous source. The display film comprises: a first display layer which has a phosphorescent agent 5 or a shade agent 6 on at least a part of a surface of an opaque and nonporous substrate sheet 4 composed of a phosphorescent material as necessary and on which a first image 10 visible under a condition without a luminous source, a second display layer including a porous sheet 7 having a plurality of pores, which is disposed on the first display layer 1 in a condition such that the second display layer 2 partially conceals the first image 10 and on which a second image 11 visible under a luminous source is formed on the other hand, and a transparent protective layer disposed on the second display layer 2.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Masafumi Saito, Hideki Yaguchi
  • Publication number: 20040247843
    Abstract: A film and a method of applying the film to a handrail of an escalator or moving walkway are provided. The film can be a single or double layered film. Printed matter, e.g. advertising, can be applied to or between the films. An apparatus and related method for applying the film are also included and rely on the motion of the handrail to unroll a supply of the film, with one or more rollers pressing the film onto the handrail. The film is stretched during application to prestretch and reduce tendency for compressive strains in use to cause wrinkling of the film and detachment from the handrail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2004
    Publication date: December 9, 2004
    Inventors: John McLeod, Viqar Haider, Ion-Viorel Tatu
  • Patent number: 6828009
    Abstract: Flat composites of plastic are manufactured by thermal adhesive bonding of at least two plastic parts which are heated at their surfaces and which comprise a base material coated with a plastic layer, wherein the Vicat softening point of the plastic of layer is 5 to 40° C. lower than that of the base material, wherein the base material has a thickness of 1 to 200 mm and the plastic layer has a thickness of 5 to 400 &mgr;m, and each of the parts is heated on the surfaces coated with the plastic layer and then welded under pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: Roehm GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Volker Benz, Manfred Rimpl