Mass Transmissive Of Light Through All Layers And Having Opaque Border (e.g., Stained Glass, Wired Glass, Etc.) Patents (Class 428/38)
  • Patent number: 6497942
    Abstract: A gyricon or twisting-particle display based on nonspheroidal (e.g., substantially cylindrical) optically anisotropic particles disposed in a substrate. The particles can be either bichromal or polychromal cylinders, preferably aligned parallel to one another and packed close together in a monolayer. A rotatable disposition of each particle is achievable while the particle is thus disposed in the substrate; for example, the particles can already be rotatable in the substrate, or can be rendered rotatable in the substrate by a nondestructive operation performed on the substrate. In particular, the substrate can be made up of an elastomer that is expanded by application of a fluid thereto so as to render the particles rotatable therein. A particle, when in its rotatable disposition, is not attached to the substrate. The close-packed monolayer configuration of particles provides excellent brightness characteristics and relative ease of manufacture as compared with certain other high-brightness gyricon displays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2002
    Assignee: Xerox Corporation
    Inventors: Nicholas K. Sheridon, Joseph M. Crowley
  • Patent number: 6490090
    Abstract: A coloring structure includes a surface layer placed on a base with light transparency and containing transparent brilliant members, each brilliant member including an alternate lamination of at least two polymers having different refractive indexes, and controlling interfered light resulting from reflection and interference produced by the alternate lamination and transmitted light other than interfered light and passing through the alternate lamination. The brilliant members may dispersedly be contained in the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2002
    Assignees: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., Tanaka Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K., Teijin Limited
    Inventors: Kinya Kumazawa, Hiroshi Tabata, Masahiko Yamanaka, Toshihiko Sada
  • Patent number: 6461704
    Abstract: A window panel for use in automotive glazing applications is described, in which inner planer piece transparent plastic is bonded to an outer piece molded from an opaque plastic creating a masking border. The two pieces have overlapping portions, and may be of reduced or tapering thickness to create a transition masking zone of reduced or varying opacity. The inner piece may be designed to separate from the outer piece at a lower impact force than that required to fracture the pieces to establish a prescribed failure mode. The window panel may be formed by a two shot molding process in which the inner and outer pieces are molded respectively to increase the overall window panel size beyond that able to be molded by a one shot process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Assignee: Exatec, LLC.
    Inventors: Mark M. Matsco, Michael E. Sykes, Roland Sauer, Barry B. Hoult
  • Patent number: 6461705
    Abstract: A glass panel having a simulated metal strip applied thereto in a decorative pattern, and a method for making a glass panel having a simulated metal strip applied thereto in a decorative pattern, including a flat panel of glass, a raised bead of air-curable acrylic resin applied in a prescribed pattern to at least one surface of the flat panel of glass, and a metal film overlying the bead of acrylic resin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Assignee: Glass Unlimited of High Point, Inc.
    Inventor: Keith L. Eichhorn
  • Patent number: 6449916
    Abstract: A method for fabricating a decorative window insert, and from the insert a decorative window, comprises the steps of producing a plurality of planar glass units each adapted by size and shape, for assembly together as a decorative insert master by assembling the planar glass units into a planar assembly wherein the planar glass units are joined by a came, producing a mold from the decorative insert master, the mold replicating the decorative insert master with a came mold portion and a planar glass units mold portion, filling the came mold portion of the mold with a dyed catalyzed resin and curing the resin as a simulated came portion of the insert, filling a planar glass units mold portion of the mold with a non-dyed catalyzed resin and curing it as a simulated glass portion of the insert followed by a post-curing of the simulated came portion and the simulated glass portion to produce the decorative window insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Inventor: George E. Waters
  • Publication number: 20020127360
    Abstract: A pellicle comprises a pellicle film and a pellicle frame for supporting the pellicle film, wherein the pellicle film is adhered to the pellicle frame through an adhesive layer comprising a fluorine-containing polymer and a substance resulting from curing of an ultraviolet-curing fluorine-containing monomer. A producing method of a pellicle including a pellicle film and a pellicle frame for supporting the pellicle film, comprises a step of adhering the pellicle film to the pellicle frame through an adhesive comprising a fluorine-containing polymer and an ultraviolet-curing fluorine-containing monomer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2001
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Kurata, Hideto Matsuoka
  • Patent number: 6428868
    Abstract: A gyricon or twisting-particle display based on nonspheroidal (e.g., substantially cylindrical) optically anisotropic particles disposed in a substrate. The particles can be either bichromal or polychromal cylinders, preferably aligned parallel to one another and packed close together in a monolayer. A rotatable disposition of each particle is achievable while the particle is thus disposed in the substrate; for example, the particles can already be rotatable in the substrate, or can be rendered rotatable in the substrate by a nondestructive operation performed on the substrate. In particular, the substrate can be made up of an elastomer that is expanded by application of a fluid thereto so as to render the particles rotatable therein. A particle, when in its rotatable disposition, is not attached to the substrate. The close-packed monolayer configuration of particles provides excellent brightness characteristics and relative ease of manufacture as compared with certain other high-brightness gyricon displays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Assignee: Xerox Corporation
    Inventors: Nicholas K. Sheridon, Joseph M. Crowley
  • Patent number: 6372327
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for manufacturing patterned glass sheets. In certain embodiments, the resulting glass sheets have a pattern defined therein which is designed so as to simulate conventional glue chipped glass sheets. A heated glass ribbon exits a furnace or melter and proceeds through a nip defined between opposing rollers. Pressure on one or both of the rollers in the direction of the nip, combined with a glue chipped simulating pattern defined in an exterior surface of at least one of the rollers, causes the glue chipped simulating pattern to be transferred from the roller (s) into/onto a surface (s) of the hot glass ribbon. After being patterned, the glass ribbon is annealed and cut into a plurality of different sheets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: Guardian Industries Corp.
    Inventors: James Burnham, James Pettis
  • Publication number: 20020039632
    Abstract: A flexible plastic window covering which combines the qualities of being translucent, colorful, easily installed in any size, self-adhering, removable and reusable, easily cleaned, wear and fade resistant, ultraviolet light absorbing, and decorative while providing privacy or hiding an unwanted view.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2001
    Publication date: April 4, 2002
    Inventor: Thomas Hicks
  • Publication number: 20020037414
    Abstract: A panel assembly is for transmitting a desired portion of visible radiation while reflecting a large portion of incident infrared radiation. The panel assembly may include a transparent substrate, a barrier metal layer adjacent the transparent substrate, and a silver alloy layer adjacent the barrier layer. The barrier metal layer may preferably be metallurgically stable for the silver alloy. In addition, a silicon nitride layer may be provided adjacent the silver alloy layer on a side thereof opposite the barrier metal layer. In another embodiment, the silver alloy may include aluminum with a silicon nitride layer thereon and without the metal barrier layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2001
    Publication date: March 28, 2002
    Inventor: James A. Cunningham
  • Patent number: 6361849
    Abstract: A bent glass sheet for a vehicle window of the present invention has a roughened region for eliminating distortion of transmitted light through the bent glass sheet. The bent glass sheet comprises a main surface surrounded by an edge of the bent glass sheet and the main surface has a smooth transparent region. The main surface also has the roughened region that covers at least a portion of a peripheral region of the main surface and in the portion of the peripheral area the roughened region extends at least 3 mm from the edge of the bent glass sheet. The roughened region covers an area in which the transmitted light are distorted. Therefore, the discomfort of passengers due to distortion of transmitted light is relieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kyoichi Shukuri, Kazuo Yamada, Takahiro Shimomura
  • Patent number: 6357103
    Abstract: A simulated stained glass art object and a method for its production comprised of a wooden picture frame containing a pane of glass onto which a polymeric film bearing the art image is bonded and embedded with an epoxy resin. The art images are printed onto the film from a computer with an inkjet printer. The images are loaded into the computer either by scanning photographs or by uploading files from a digital camera. The glass pane may be modified to minimize reflected light or to absorb UV wavelengths. A mirror can be installed behind the art images to reflect light back through the images and to improve the appearance of the object when viewed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Inventor: William Joseph Sikorski
  • Patent number: 6354107
    Abstract: An article of jewelry includes a first frame having a front portion and a rear portion and a second frame having a front portion and a rear portion. The first frame and the second frame cooperate to define an aperture therebetween, the aperture comprising a front portion which coincides with the front portions of the first and second frames and a rear portion which coincides with the rear portions of the first and second frames. The article further comprises a number of spokes connected between the front portion of the first frame and the front portion of the second frame, the spokes dividing the front portion of the aperture into a number of sub-apertures and a unitary core disposed within the aperture, the unitary core filling the rear portion of the aperture and the front portion of the aperture, including the sub-apertures, and encompassing all but an outer surface of the spokes, thereby giving an impression that the unitary core comprises a plurality of pieces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Assignee: Verducci Creations, Inc.
    Inventor: Henry A. Verducci, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6350501
    Abstract: A solid agglomerate for components used for building, interior decoration or the like which comprises a combination of granular inert materials such as marble, granite or similar, binding resin and granular glass in a quantity, quality and piece size such that light can pass between opposite parts of the solid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Assignee: Interscambio S.r.l.
    Inventor: Agostino Guariento
  • Publication number: 20020004107
    Abstract: An article, such as a filter or film, has a treated laminate with an expanded PTFE membrane and a porous support scrim. The treated laminate is formed by contacting a laminate having an expanded PTFE membrane and a porous support scrim with an oleophobic treatment agent dissolved in an organic solvent. The oleophobic treatment agent is deposited onto the expanded PTFE membrane and porous support scrim as the organic solvent is removed. The oleophobic treatment agent is typically a fluoropolymer. The article can be used, for example, as a filter over a port in a housing of an electronics or other device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2001
    Publication date: January 10, 2002
    Applicant: Donaldson Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert M. Rogers
  • Patent number: 6326094
    Abstract: A fiber structure includes alternate lamination including a predetermined number of a first portion having a refractive index na and a thickness da, and a second portion adjacent to the first portion and having a refractive index nb and a thickness db, wherein when the refractive index na is given by 1.3≦na, and a ratio nb/na is given by 1.01≦nb/na≦1.20, a reflection peak wavelength &lgr; is equal to 2(nada+nbdb). Such fiber structure is used in a textile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Assignees: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., Tanaka Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K., Teijin Limited
    Inventors: Makoto Asano, Toshimasa Kuroda, Susumu Shimizu, Akio Sakihara, Kinya Kumazawa, Hiroshi Tabata
  • Patent number: 6319571
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus which enable the lateral displacement of windows and window elements in reaction to overpressure forces resulting from an explosion are disclosed. According to the present invention, these forces are released to the edges of the displaced window and window elements, and the window itself remains intact or does not release life-threatening or injurious projectiles. One embodiment of the invention (10) comprises a window frame (12) which holds a pane of glass or synthetic material such as acrylic or polycarbonate (14), the frame (12) being coupled to a window receiving pan or receptor (16) by a plurality of retainers (18). The overpressure from an explosive blast causes the frame (12) to be displaced primarily laterally from the receiving pan (16) thereby releasing the blast overpressure (20) to the edges of the displaced frame (12) and reducing the risk of release of shrapnel from said sheet of generally light transmissive material (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Inventor: Richard L. Anglin, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6319572
    Abstract: A curved decorative structural member, e.g., an architectural panel is formed of an array of marbles or other translucent or transparent beads or spheroids that are sandwiched between curved front and rear apertured grids. There are spacer members fastened to the front and rear grids, and the marbles are held in respective grid openings in the grids. The lateral distance between grid openings, and the width of the land or bar between openings is different between the front and rear grids in response to the curve. The lands in the rear grid are narrower for convex portions and wider for concave portions. The panels may have a single axis of curvature, or may be of a more complex curved shape such as spherical or conic. The spheroids may be arranged in a design, and can produce a dramatic effect when illuminated from behind. An unapertured curved plastic sheet or plate can be used in place of the rear grid member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Inventor: David Howell
  • Patent number: 6319009
    Abstract: A kit for glass art in which a blank is cut from covered sheet plastic to a shape that encompasses a picture including artistic designs drawn on the covering. The artistic designs are cut out to create artistic openings through the surface of the plastic blank, each opening defined by edges having a thickness. An indentation is machined along the center of the thickness of the entire edge of each opening. Stained sheet glass is cut and ground by conventional methods to pieces which fit within matching openings in the plastic blank. The edges of the openings and stained glass pieces are foiled with foil tape and the glass pieces are soldered within their matching openings in the plastic blank with heat and melted solder. The covering of the plastic blank is removed to reveal the picture made of stained glass designs within the plastic blank of the kit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Inventor: Thomas H. Radgens
  • Patent number: 6306529
    Abstract: A minute structure for producing a color comprises a first coloring part for producing a color with first wavelengths in the visible light area by physical actions such as reflection and Interference. The first coloring part includes lamellas disposed in layers at predetermined intervals. A second coloring part is disposed adjacent to the first coloring part for absorbing a part of light with second wavelengths in the visible light area and reflecting the rest of light. The second coloring part contains a coloring matter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Assignees: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., Tanaka Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K.
    Inventors: Susumu Shimizu, Akio Sakihara, Kinya Kumazawa, Hiroshi Tabata
  • Patent number: 6280826
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a bulletproof glass window, in particular for use as a lowerable side window of a motor vehicle, with plural glass panes (1, 3, 5) arranged in layers and laminates (2, 4), with at least one laminate being positioned between two adjoining glass panes in each case, in order to join the two glass panes, with a grading or stepped portion that is formed at the edge of the bulletproof glass window and with a projection (8) for lodging the bulletproof glass window in a chassis (14) or door frame, and with a metal armoring which, in the area of the projection (8), at least covers the inner surface of the projection, in the area of the grading or stepped portion a recess (12) being formed on the face, and the metal armoring (6) extending into the recess (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Assignee: Isoclima GmbH
    Inventors: Herwig Wöll, Siegfried Stranner
  • Patent number: 6238756
    Abstract: A glass cloisonne article and method of making same is provided. The glass cloisonne article includes a glass substrate which can be formed into a desired shape, such as a vase, votive or other desired shape, a framework of metal wire for forming a design on the glass substrate, one or more colored glazes, and a clear glaze which covers the outer surfaces of the colored glazed glass substrate. The glass cloisonne article is translucent and flame resistant and can be used as a votive that can be illuminated by a candle or other illuminating means. The glass substrate can also be shaped into a vase to hold flowers and water. Various other designs can be made including, but not limited to, ornaments, Christmas ornaments, boxes, picture frames, coasters, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Inventor: William F. Yee
  • Patent number: 6214424
    Abstract: A process for producing an article having a three-dimensional optical effect comprising a transparent substrate provided with a translucent simulated ice crystal formation having a controlled amount of fern-like patterns along with articles produced by this process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Assignee: Thermoseal Glass Corporation
    Inventors: Richard A. Chubb, Thomas Grant
  • Patent number: 6203635
    Abstract: The invention relates to the bonding of bevels of relatively planar form and of material such as glass to a sheet of material such as a window pane or the like to provide a decorative effect. The invention provides in one aspect the use of a template which has at least one aperture in which one or a series of bevels are placed in the correct configuration. The template is formed so as to allow excess adhesive to flow onto the same rather than the sheet material so that when the adhesive is cured it can be peelably removed from the template rather than cause deposits on the sheet material. The adhesive used can withstand and be resistant to the effects of weathering over a prolonged period of time thereby improving the long term visual effect of the bevels when bonded to the sheet material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Inventor: Michael John Sellars
  • Patent number: 6200004
    Abstract: There is disclosed a light diffusing device that includes a transparent base layer with a diffuser layer over it. The diffuser layer is formed of multiple light diffusing elements. These elements are preferably diamond-like in shape and are substantially in alignment. The diffusing elements, arranged in this manner serve to uniformly diffuse light, typically as emitted from fluorescent tubes, to which the device or devices is/are typically attached, such that areas of greater intensity, known as “hot spots” and areas of lesser intensity, known as “shadows” are eliminated, and viewers have difficulty determining the direction of the fluorescent tubes. The device can be flat, and when combined with adhesive forms a tape, that may include a backing member, inert to the adhesive, for storage. Tubular devices are also permissible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Assignee: Quality Manufacturing Incorporated
    Inventors: Mortimer Huber, Salvador Mendez
  • Patent number: 6196440
    Abstract: A tool (40) for imprinting a pattern in a has a handle (42). A stamp (44), connected to the handle (42), has a pattern (54) formed on a face (52) of the stamp (44). The face (52) of the stamp (44) forms a concave surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Inventor: Georgia Lee Kennedy
  • Patent number: 6194055
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a continuous transparent glass sheet having the appearance of a multi-pane structure. The glass sheet includes a glass panel having opposed surfaces first and second colored bands formed on at least one of the surfaces and intersecting one another. A plurality of parallel, immediately adjacent straight walled grooves is positioned on opposed sides of the colored band, the straight walled grooves positioned parallel to the colored band. Two of the straight walled grooves are positioned immediately adjacent the colored band. A remaining portion of the surface is not covered by the colored bands, such that the colored bands contrasts with the remaining portion of the surface to simulate the appearance of a plurality of muntins in the glass panel that divide the glass panel into a number of individual panes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Inventor: Keith L. Eichhorn
  • Patent number: 6187422
    Abstract: The invention relates to a transparent, amorphous sheet having a thickness in the range from 1 to 20 mm which contains, as principal constituent, a crystallizable thermoplastic, where the surface gloss, measured in accordance with DIN 67530 (measurement angle 20°), is greater than 130, the light transmission, measured in accordance with ASTM D 1003, is greater than 84%, and the haze of the sheet, measured in accordance with ASTM D 1003, is less than 15%, to a process for the production of the sheet, and to the use of the sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Assignee: Hostaglas LTD
    Inventors: Ursula Murschall, Wolfgang Gawrisch, Rainer Brunow
  • Patent number: 6183580
    Abstract: A protective covering system for protecting the exterior of a vehicle including the paint surfaces and glass surface of the vehicle from damage from rocks, insects, road tar, and other debris while driving. The protective covering system includes a set of protective sheets with each protective sheet having front and back surfaces, and an outer perimeter. Each protective sheet is generally transparent to permit the passage of light therethrough between the front and back surfaces of the protective sheet. The back surface of each of the protective sheet is designed for attachment to an exterior surface of a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2001
    Inventors: Larry B. Harrell, Eleanor P. Harrell
  • Patent number: 6150028
    Abstract: The invention relates to glass sheets formed from a glass which contains, in percentages by weight, from 1 to 2.5% of total iron expressed in the form of Fe.sub.2 O.sub.3, the FeO weight content being between 0.3 and 1%, the said sheets exhibiting, for a thickness of between 1 and 1.9 mm, an energy transmittance (T.sub.E) of less than 55%. The sheets according to the invention are more particularly intended for the production of laminated glazing panels for motor vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: Saint Gobain Vitrage
    Inventor: Pedro Pablo Mazon
  • Patent number: 6135342
    Abstract: A tool (40) for imprinting a pattern in a has a handle (42). A stamp (44), connected to the handle (42), has a pattern (54) formed on a face (52) of the stamp (44). The face (52) of the stamp (44) forms a concave surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Inventor: Georgia Lee Kennedy
  • Patent number: 6117504
    Abstract: This invention relates to a stained glass article of a three dimensional shape and a method for producing the same. A glass plate is cut into glass pieces of a certain shape including a pentagon member and a hexagon member. The hexagon member consists of one six-sided irregular member and three four-sided irregular members. The glass pieces of the certain shape are united together via a bonding agent to obtain the three dimensional stained glass imitating the shape of a soccer ball. The glass piece has a curved surface whose radius of curvature is set substantially equal to the radius of the soccer ball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Inventor: Kazuhide Yoshikawa
  • Patent number: 6113994
    Abstract: A hanging figurine for display in a room. The hanging figurine includes a nontransparent material defining a desired shape and including a recess extending therethrough. A transparent material is positioned to cover the recess allowing light to pass through at least a portion of the figurine. A device is connected to said nontransparent material for connecting the figurine in a dangling manner within the room in which the figurine is to be displayed. The transparent material is of a desired color tinting any light passing therethrough to the desired color. The recess has a shape of one of a geometric object and a recognizable object such as the sun and moon. The connecting device is preferably a string and is connected to one of a wall, window and arm of an object with the room in which the figurine is displayed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Inventor: Maureen Ochoa
  • Patent number: 6110545
    Abstract: A decorative assembly including a frame having first and second spaced apart frame elements between which a display space is defined, a first display element having a first decorative appearance, and a receptacle and projection defined on each of the first and second frame elements and first display element cooperating to removably maintain the first display element in a first predetermined relationship at a first location in the display space. A second display element having a second decorative appearance is also provided, with a receptacle and projection defined on each of the first and second frame elements and second display element cooperating to removably maintain the second display element in a second predetermined relationship at the first location in the display space. The first and second display elements are capable of being selectively interchangeably displayed at the first location to selectively change the overall appearance of the decorative assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Inventor: Catherine C. Phillips
  • Patent number: 6080454
    Abstract: A process for producing stained crystallized glass and its articles is provided where crystallized glass is obtained with patterns and colors like that of granites, marble, and other natural stones. The process includes the heat-treatment of a prepared batch of crystallizable glass granules, colored powder and water, at a temperature higher than the softening point of the glass granules resulting in fusion bonding of the glass granules. The colored powder is compounded by an inorganic pigment, a suspension stabilizing agent, an agglomerate, a deflocculant agent, and a crystallizable glass powder. The surface pattern is formed by the grain boundary region of the crystallizable glass granules, and part of the inorganic pigment in the colored powder moving with the crystallizable glass powder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Assignee: China Glaze Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kuo-Chuan Hsu, Ching-Hsi Lin, Hsien-Chung Tsai
  • Patent number: 6051513
    Abstract: The invention relates to a minute structure for showing an interference color having a certain wavelength within a visible light region, by reflection and interference of a natural light incident on the minute structure. The minute structure has: a laminated portion including a plurality of first layers having a first refractive index and a plurality of second layers having a second refractive index different from the first refractive index; and a stray-light absorbing member. The first and second layers are alternately placed on top of each other. The stray light has wavelengths other than the certain wavelength and is formed by transmittance of the natural light through the laminated portion, reflectance of the natural light by the laminated portion and/or scattering of the natural light by the laminated portion. The invention further relates to a fabric for showing the interference color.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kinya Kumazawa, Hiroshi Tabata, Junichi Takimoto
  • Patent number: 6045880
    Abstract: A three-dimensional relief plastic sheet for use on articles such as binders comprises a decorative overlay sheet made of a plastics material and at least one three-dimensional relief representation integrally formed on the overlay sheet, for instance, by vacuum forming. The overlay sheet is adapted to be mounted to various articles, preferably made of plastics materials, by way of adhesives, heat-sealing, high-frequency welding, etc. The overlay is preferably made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene or styrene (e.g. polystyrene) and thus can be secured, for example along the periphery thereof, to the vinyl covering of loose-leaf binders and other document carrying folders respectively using high-frequency welding and glues. The three-dimensional representation and the overlay sheet typically include colored sections and possibly transparent sections. A mirror-like backing sheet is provided behind the overlay sheet when there are such transparent sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Assignee: Creations Executive - 153291 Canada Inc.
    Inventor: Nick Minichiello
  • Patent number: 6042912
    Abstract: A decorative window dressing that includes a border cut-out design sheet having the design cut-out for permitting light to pass through, a colored middle layer and a backing sheet. The colored layer is placed between the border cut-out and the backing sheet, where the border sheet and colored middle layer are secured to the backing sheet and positioned within a window frame such that the incoming light is in the shape of the cut-out design. The window dressing may be attached to spring loaded roller hung within a window pane or to a hanging bar for rotation along its vertical axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Inventor: Helen Simoni
  • Patent number: 6040065
    Abstract: A method for producing a metal matrix (32) which binds inclusions (12,15) in a stable structure (31) so that the surface areas of two opposing sides of each inclusion (12,15) are visible, thus enabling translucency. This method comprises the steps of securing inclusions (12,15) to a temporary backing (38) so that there are intervals (14) between the inclusions (12,15), depositing a metal fiber substrate (42) into the intervals (14) between the inclusions (12,15), and then melting a metal infiltrate (46) so that the infiltrate (46) coats the individual fibers and fills the spaces between the fibers. Upon cooling, the amalgam (48) of substrate (42) and infiltrate (46) thus formed constitutes the matrix (32) and border (34) of the structure (31). The inclusions (12,15) may be glass, marble, clay, metal, or other materials; the metal fiber substrate (42) is preferably fine bronze fiber and the infiltrate (46) is preferably conventional solder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Inventor: Andrew Eisan
  • Patent number: 6033750
    Abstract: A new stained glass window design for reducing costs associated with securing stained glass. The inventive device includes a frame member having a hollow interior. The frame member includes a matrix of criss-crossing members disposed within the hollow interior. The frame has an interior peripheral edge. A plurality of stained glass pieces are positioned atop of the criss-crossing members and along the interior peripheral edge of the frame member. A quantity of gypsum cement connects each of the stained glass pieces together and secure the stained glass pieces to the frame member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Inventor: Ali Aladimi
  • Patent number: 6030687
    Abstract: A retroreflective vision control panel which includes an opaque sheet material coated with retroreflective light reflecting particles and a dark opaque color on the reverse side thereof, and an image formed over top the retroreflective particles using colored light permeable translucent inks or films to form an image thereon. The opaque sheet and image have a plurality of perforations spaced therethrough. Translucent light-permeable sheet material is provided on the back side of the panel and overlaid on one or the other side with translucent inks to form a second image. An observer on the front side of the panel will observe one or the other of the images, depending upon the relative intensity of the light incident on the front and back sides of the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Inventor: Michael D. Andriash
  • Patent number: 6022599
    Abstract: Method for manufacturing a display unit, which display unit comprises a first plate-type element and a second plate-type element made of transparent material, situated essentially parallel to the first plate-type element and serving as a window, and a frame made of flexible material which is moulded in an undetachable manner onto at least part of the periphery of one of the two plate-type elements, and which holds the two plate-type elements together, while a replaceable picture carrier of sheet-like or film-like material can be placed between the two plate-type elements. The first plate-type element and the second plate-type element are place together in an injection mould, without the picture carrier placed between them. Subsequently, in an injection moulding process, the frame of flexible plastic material is moulded in an undetachable manner onto at least part of the periphery of one of the two plate type elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2000
    Inventors: Matthijs Alphons Rietveld, Martin Cornelis Meijers
  • Patent number: 6010758
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus which enable the lateral displacement of windows and window elements in reaction to overpressure forces resulting from an explosion are disclosed. According to the present invention, these forces are released to the edges of the displaced window and window elements, and the window itself remains intact or does not release life-threatening or injurious projectiles. One embodiment of the invention (10) comprises a window frame (12) which holds a pane of glass or synthetic material such as acrylic or polycarbonate (14), the frame (12) being coupled to a window receiving pan or receptor (16) by a plurality of retainers (18). The overpressure from an explosive blast causes the frame (12) to be displaced primarily laterally from the receiving pan (16) thereby releasing the blast overpressure (20) to the edges of the displaced frame (12) and reducing the risk of release of shrapnel from said sheet of generally light transmissive material (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Inventor: Richard L. Anglin, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5998497
    Abstract: A liquid photocurable resin composition having excellent applicability in a high speed drawing condition and high curability, providing a stable coating film which generates little hydrogen gas when used as a coating material for optical fiber. The liquid photocurable resin composition comprises 10-80 wt % of a polymer having an ether bond or an ester bond, and an ethylenically unsaturated group; 5-50 wt % of at least one monomer according to the formula ##STR1## wherein R.sup.9 is a hydrogen atom or a methyl group, R.sup.10 is an alkylene group having 2-4 carbon atoms, and n denotes an integer from 1-10; 0.1-10% by weight of a photopolymerization initiator; and optionally other compounds comprising one or more ethylenically unsaturated groups.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignees: DSM N.V., JSR Corporation
    Inventors: Miyuki Ishikawa, Takashi Ukachi
  • Patent number: 5993925
    Abstract: Protective window for an ornamental window in which the protective window has an outer frame, protective glazing and optionally mullions that protect the ornamental window while maintaining its beauty. The protective window has extension jambs on the frame that hide the structural portions of the building wall and any mullions in the ornamental window so the two windows have an attractive appearance undiminished by the sight of the edges of the building wall or undersides of the mullions between the two windows.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Inventor: Patrick M. Zoccole
  • Patent number: 5989666
    Abstract: An aesthetic structure comprising a sheet of material having a smooth surface and a plurality of strips of a non-metallic material. Each strip has a surface and a layer of adhesive material is adhered to the surface of each strip for securing the strip to the smooth surface of the sheet of material. The strips are disposed on the smooth surface of the sheet of material to segment the smooth surface of the sheet of material into discrete portions. A method for making an aesthetic structure such as a stained glass window is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Assignee: David M. Hadden
    Inventor: David M. Hadden
  • Patent number: 5951732
    Abstract: A method of forming glass uses the steps of forming base glass from layered stacks of colored glass; V-Grooving a plurality of base glass layers; stacking the grooved layers; heating and maintaining at an elevated temperature for flow and air entrainment elimination; recutting the block to desired dimensions and reforming into sheet form. The glass has ribbons of color contained within a glass matrix, the ribbons being aligned perpendicularly to the face of the glass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Inventor: Mark Duro
  • Patent number: 5945180
    Abstract: A decorative window assembly including a frame having spaced apart frame elements between which a display space is defined, a first element having a first appearance, and a receptacle and projection defined on each of the frame and first elements cooperating to removably maintain a first element in a first predetermined relationship at a first location on the frame. A second element having a second appearance is also provided, with a receptacle and projection defined on each of the frame and second elements cooperating to removably maintain the second element in a second predetermined relationship at the first location on the frame. The first and second elements can be selectively interchangeably displayed at the first location to selectively change the overall appearance of the decorative window assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Inventor: Catherine C. Phillips
  • Patent number: 5938834
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a water-based paint composition comprising sodium silicate, water, water-soluble base, metal oxide pigment, soda-lime-silica glass particles and at least one of a low-melting glass frit or zinc oxide. Preferably, it includes only the glass frit and it further preferably comprises surfactants and aluminum hydroxide. It also is a glass sheet carrying the paint on at least a portion of the sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventor: Premakaran Tucker Boaz
  • Patent number: 5939168
    Abstract: A retroreflective vision control panel which includes an opaque sheet material coated with retroreflective light reflecting particles and a dark opaque color on the reverse side thereof, and an image formed over top the retroreflective particles using colored light permeable translucent inks or films to form an image thereon. The opaque sheet and image have a plurality of perforations spaced therethrough. Translucent light-permeable sheet material is provided on the back side of the panel and overlaid on one or the other side with translucent inks to form a second image. An observer on the front side of the panel will observe one or the other of the images, depending upon the relative intensity of the light incident on the front and back sides of the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Inventor: Michael D. Andriash