Abstract: The present invention is directed to a barrier layer which has the ability to substantially prevent the diffusion of stains, such as plasticizers and dyes or other chemicals, onto a surface of a surface covering, from a surface or object in which the surface covering is placed upon. The barrier layer contains a polyamide or polyurethane and is preferably located above a substrate or base layer in a surface covering. The barrier layer preferably is located between a UV topcoat layer and a vinyl wear layer. The present invention also relates to a method of preventing stain migration onto a surface covering from a surface on which the surface covering is placed by use of the barrier layer of the present invention and also relates to methods of making surface coverings containing the barrier layer of the present invention.

Abstract: An electrical system, or a trigger circuit for use in connection with an electrical system, is disclosed. The electrical system includes a circuit element responsive to applied current, a power source for providing current to the circuit element, a substrate, and a substantially clear conductive composition arranged on or in associatin with the substrate for providing an electrical current path between the power source and the responsive circuit element.

Abstract: A multi-layered signage-lettering material containing a release or casting sheet layer with a pigmented display layer deposited on one side of the release sheet is described. The pigmented display layer is a coalesced film of at least one water-borne polymer of for example water-borne polyurethanes, water-borne acrylics, and mixtures thereof. Optionally, the coalesced film may be applied in multiple coats. The multi-layered material also includes an adhesive layer covering the surface of the pigmented display layer opposite the release sheet, and optionally, a removable protective layer covering the surface of the adhesive layer opposite the pigmented display layer. A method of fabricating the multi-layered signage-lettering material described above also is described. The method includes first depositing the pigmented display layer on the release or casting sheet.

Abstract: A plastic article and method of molding same is provided where the plastic article includes a plastic member having a first ridge and a second ridge. The plastic member is partially absorbed into and is in bonded engagement with at least a portion of a first laminate and the first laminate has an edge imbedded in the first ridge of the plastic member. Also, the plastic member is partially absorbed into and is in bonded engagement with at least a portion of a second laminate and the second laminate has a first edge imbedded in the first ridge of the plastic member and a second edge imbedded in the second ridge of the plastic member. The plastic member is also partially absorbed into and is in bonded engagement with at least a portion of a third laminate and the third laminate has an edge imbedded in the second ridge of the plastic member.

Abstract: Disclosed is a novel thermoplastic article having a fabric comprised of textile fibers embedded therein produced by applying heat and pressure to a laminate comprising, in order, (1) an upper sheet material, (2) a fabric comprised of textile fibers, and (3) a lower sheet material to produce a thermoplastic article having the fabric embedded therein. The upper and lower sheet materials are formed from a copolyester having an inherent viscosity of 0.5 to 1.2 dL/g, when measured at 25.degree. C. using 0.

Abstract: The welding rod used to weld the surface covering has a laminate structure in which a print layer is disposed between a first thermoplastic layer and a second transparent thermoplastic layer. Preferably the welding rod is in the form of an elongated element having a half-round cross-sectional shape. The welding rod is used to join two pieces of thermoplastic sheeting, particularly flooring, together. If the welding rod has a pattern similar to the printed pattern of the sheeting the resulting surface covering looks seamless.

Abstract: This invention provides improved methods and compositions for achieving material coloration using particle scattering. These coloration effects can be designed to be either highly stable or dependent upon the switching effects of either temperature, integrated thermal exposure, moisture absorption, or exposure to actinic radiation. Articles employing materials with these coloration effects are described. Composition comprise a solid, light-transmitting matrix component having a non-liquid particle scattering colorant dispersed. Articles are produced wherein another solid second matrix component has an electronic transition colorant dispersed therein and the first and second compositions are disposed on one another and optionally interpenetrate each other. Colored articles are produced in the form of fibers, films and molded articles.

Abstract: A hot plate assembly for supporting heated elements above a more heat susceptible surface, while also presenting an image through the translucent or transparent top plate of the hot plate assembly. The transparent or translucent top plate or main body is preferably formed of a tempered glass and a photographic element or other manner of illustrating an object is mounted or positioned on the undersurface of the top plate so as to be visible through the top plate. The image member provided on the undersurface of the top plate is fixed in position by way of a larger area backing layer which is bonded at least to the top plate's undersurface but also to the image member such as a photograph. Alternatively, the backing layer has the image integrally formed on or in the backing layer. A method is also described for forming a hot plate assembly which includes the sandwiching of the image member between the top plate and backing layer.

Abstract: A card with a removal and reusable covering thin transparent vinyl layer sheet with indicia thereon and a backing material sheet layered under said vinyl layer sheet and removably retained thereto by static cling without the use of adhesives there between. The covering vinyl sheet may cover part or all of one side of the backing material sheet such as in a folded greeting or a unfolded postcard, respectively. The indicia may take on almost any form of visual data including letters, words, pictorial representations, drawings, photographs, logos or any combination thereof. When the vinyl layer sheet is removed from the backing sheet, it may be placed on any flat smooth surface, such as a glass window pane, as long as static cling can hold the removable vinyl layer sheet thereto.

Abstract: A birefringent material have two major parallel surfaces and a method of making such a material, wherein the said material comprises plural identical uniaxial birefringent polymeric films, each of said uniaxial films having an optical axis, or comprising plural identical biaxial birefringent polymeric films, each of said biaxial films having an acute bisectrix of the optical axes, wherein the material is formed from a stack of said films, with the optical axes or the acute bisectrixes of the films in the stack being aligned, and wherein said stack has been cut or skived at an angle to the optical axes or the acute bisectrixes thereof, such that when incident light passes through said material in a direction perpendicular to said major surfaces of the material, the incident light having a first plane of polarization is displaced relative to the incident light having a second plane of polarization, the first and second planes of polarization being perpendicular to each other.

Abstract: A decorative photographic floor tile comprising an enlarged photographic print to create a visual decor for use in commercial settings. The photographic floor tile comprises a lamination of clear vinyl on top of a photographic print with a self-adhesive peel-away backing. A method of using the decorative photographic floor tile to create a visual decor.

Abstract: A bilaminate window glass assembly for an automotive vehicle includes at least one pane forming a window glass, a non-breakable frame disposed adjacent about at least a portion of a perimeter of the pane and a panel bonded to one side of the frame and the pane to form a bilaminate window glass.

Abstract: An optically transparent article is prepared from an optically transparent first piece and an optically transparent second piece. A channel pattern is scribed into a surface of the first piece to a preselected depth. A metallic stripe pattern is deposited into the channel pattern, with the thickness of the metallic stripe pattern being less than the depth of the channel pattern. The second piece is placed over the first piece and sealed thereto at a peripheral boundary such that the second piece does not contact the metallic stripe pattern. A bus connection is optionally made to the metallic stripe, preferably from the periphery of either the first or second piece.

Abstract: A decorative glass sheet simulating a multi-pane, camed window or door, and a method for forming the same. The decorative glass sheet includes a glass panel having an outer surface. At least one groove is formed through the outer surface and into the glass panel. Each groove includes a first wall extending from a first peripheral edge to a groove bottom apex and a second wall extending from the apex to a second peripheral edge. The second wall has a width greater than a width of the first wall. At least one decorative caming strip is adhered to the outer surface of the glass panel and is disposed adjacent and along the first peripheral edge of the at least one groove.

Abstract: A plastics tile (9) is made up of a plurality of discrete plastics pieces (10, 11, 12) which are shaped relative to each other and assembled together to abut edge to edge in lower regions of the pieces and form a recess above each mutually abutting edge of abutting pieces in upper regions of the pieces. The pieces are joined together along said mutually abutting edges below the recesses to form a unitary tile.

Abstract: A floor element for covering a base in which the bearing surface consists of a wood fibre board which is covered with a transparent lacquer coating at least on the bearing surface. This floor element can be laid together with other such floor elements on a flat base to form a floor, by joining the elements together by the side edges. The floor element is very durable due to the fact that it undergoes less delamination under the effects of moisture and is more scratch-resistant and hard-wearing. Furthermore, the floor element has a very attractive, natural-looking appearance.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for protecting removable markings on an optical lens during grinding thereof to a desired prescription. A mask is placed over the markings prior to application of an adhesive tape, to which a low temperature alloy block is bonded for holding of the lens during grinding. The mask preferably covers only the markings, and is transparent to allow alignment thereof. Preferably the mask is held in place on the lens surface without the use of an adhesive, although a low tack adhesive may be used which does not remove the markings when the mask is peeled away from the lens. A preferred material for the mask is a static cling vinyl.

Abstract: An ambient lighted plaque structure with self-created aesthetic illusory-colored sides comprising a glass blank. The glass blank being colorless and transparent and homogeneous in composition. The glass blank bounded by front and back surfaces and a series of angularly related sides where the series of angularly related sides define a thickness between the front and back surfaces of the glass blank. One of the series of angularly related sides facing in an upward direction. Another of the series of angularly related sides facing in a downward direction. A colored glass strip structure underlying the glass blank and being homogeneous in composition. The colored glass strip structure is rigidly bonded to the side facing in a downward direction and the bond provides a colorless transparent joint therebetween. The joint enables ambient light to travel between the colored glass strip structure and the side facing in a downward direction without substantial internal reflection.

Abstract: A composite panel is provided which includes a resin matrix having embedded therewithin alternating layers of particulates and flexible sheeting. The composite panel is capable of supporting its own weight and exhibits impact resistance and shatter resistance. Preferably, the resin is transparent, the particulates are decorative, and the flexible sheeting becomes transparent upon curing of the resin. The composite panels are included within articles such as tables, desks, other furniture, vertical partitions, decorative panels, doors, windows and floors. Also included is a method of making the composite panels by molding layers of these materials within an open mold.

Abstract: A composite floor covering having an upper decorative layer, a stabilizing layer, and an optional cushioning layer is characterized in that the decorative layer itself comprises a fabric base and a plastic matrix having a transparent portion. The plastic matrix may include an opaque portion. At least the transparent portion of the plastic matrix has discrete fibrous structures embedded therein. The plastic matrix material is selected with melting and rheological characteristics such that the plastic matrix is prepared and applied to the fabric base in fluid form and solidifies under conditions at which the fabric base and embedded fibrous structures remain substantially intact. The fabric layer may be totally embedded within the plastic matrix or may form the lower surface of the plastic matrix. The decorative layer may include (i) fabric fragments, (ii) groupings of multi-oriented individual fibers, or (iii) mixtures of fragments and individual fibers.

Abstract: There is disclosed a hot stamping foil assembly, in particular a hot stamping foil, which has spatial decorative or security elements formed in a region-wise manner. An adhesive layer is provided only in a region-wise manner and in matching relationship with respect to the spatial elements to effect transfer of the spatial decorative or security elements or other decorative layer structure.

Abstract: A pane of glass composed of at least two sheets of glass 2,3 and of at least one insert layer 7. The surface-area of one of the sheets of glass is smaller than that of the other sheet, the edges of the two sheets lying flush at least at part of the periphery and the edge of the sheet of glass having the smaller surface-area not overhanging the large sheet of glass at any point.

Abstract: An automotive quality paint coat is laminated to the exterior surface of a molded plastic car body member or panel. In one embodiment, the paint coat includes an exterior clear coat above a color coat. During processing, the clear coat and color coat are each coated on a temporary flexible casting sheet and dried. A high gloss surface is transferred to the clear coat from the casting sheet. The paint coat is then transferred from the casting sheet to a thin, semi-flexible thermoformable plastic backing sheet by dry paint transfer-laminating techniques. The resulting laminate is thermoformed into a complex three-dimensional shape of the car body member or panel. The preformed laminate is then bonded to an underlying plastic substrate material, by injection-cladding techniques, for example, to form the finished article. The paint coat has sufficient elongation to retain exterior automotive appearance and durability properties during thermoforming without deglossing.

Abstract: A water-evaporation process for making thin one-color plastic lettering, as used in sets for computer-cutting and application in spaced array. Water-based plastics, particularly urethanes and acrylics are used instead of polyvinyl chloride. These more flexible films are opaque, resulting from use of large amounts of water-dispersed pigments. After spreading, the water is evaporated, causing the spread mixture to coalesce into a thin tough well-pigmented opaque film. Films less than two mils thick may be formed, free from migratory plasticizers which might cause pigments to migrate or to damage adjacent the flanking layers of adhesives and release films. The water evaporation process, at only about 220.degree. F., requires minimal workplace or environmental safeguards compared to the use of solvent containing systems.

Abstract: A decorative pin having a surface made of metal for displaying a high quality color photographic image having a high degree of image resolution reproduced directly onto a metal surface and a method for reproducing a high quality photographic image directly onto a metal surface are disclosed. The decorative pin of the present invention comprises a base member made of brass having an upper surface for displaying a photographic image that is reproduced directly onto the upper surface and a lower surface having means for removably attaching the decorative pin to a garment.

Abstract: An attachment construction for a sheet glass is disclosed. The construction includes a frame to be secured to a construction structure. A sheet glass is attached to this frame by fitting a peripheral edge of the sheet glass into the frame. A metal holder is disposed in contact with the peripheral edge of the sheet glass for holding the sheet glass. The sheet glass is attached to the frame via the holder member placed in contact with the sheet glass.

Abstract: A visual display of colored beads and methods for the preparation thereof. The display includes a pattern, a transparent substrate secured over the pattern, beads disposed on the substrate and a sealant that is disposed over the beads and the substrate for sealing the display so that the beads may not be accidentally dislodged or removed therefrom and a permanent display is formed. The method includes disposing sealant over the beads so that either a smooth finish is formed or so that the texture of the beads is exposed to touch and sight.

Abstract: A layer of glass, and an optically clear or transparent coating layer bonded to at least one surface of the glass layer by an interposed layer of optically clear adhesive having a peel strength of at least 3,000 grams per square inch. The coating layer generally includes a plurality of polymeric plies or strata, which are preferably made of a polyester material. The adhesive layer is preferably a pressure sensitive acrylic resin. The coating layer preferably includes an ultraviolet absorbing polyester ply, a reflective polyester ply which will generally include a metallized surface, and an outermost scratch resistant ply that prevents scratching of the coating layer which will reduce optical transparency. The coating layer may additionally include a protective polyester ply adjacent to the metallized surface of the reflective ply.

Abstract: A method of producing a photographic polyester laminate support having a laminate of layers of at least two kinds of polyesters can provide low formation of scratches in a camera and a curl in the film's width direction. In the support, the glass transition temperature (Tg) of each polyester of the laminate is within the range of from 90.degree. C. to 200.degree. C. and the laminate is subjected to heat-fixing in a temperature range as defined by formula (1):Heat-fixing temperature (.degree.C.)=(Tm(L)-50) to (Tm(H)-10)formula (1)wherein Tm(H)(.degree.C.) means the highest melting temperature of polyesters that constitute the laminate support, and Tm(L)(.degree.C.) means the lowest melting temperature of polyesters that constitute the laminate support.

Abstract: A glazing for an enclosed space includes at least one sheet of glass having a precisely delimited surface region and a transmitter and/or a receiver for electromagnetic radiation in a non-visible portion of the spectrum. The transmitter and/or receiver are positioned for respectively transmitting and receiving radiation in a non-visible portion of the spectrum via the precisely delimited surface region. The transmissivity of said precisely delimited surface region for electromagnetic radiation in said non-visible portion of the spectrum is higher than that of a remainder of the at least one sheet of glass for electromagnetic radiation in the non-visible portion of the spectrum.

Abstract: The present invention provides fundamental materials excellent in general purpose used for buildings, etc. as windows and interior and exterior walls of general buildings, houses, cars, etc., concretely, various laminates with the flip-flop effect (the effect of delicately changing in color, depending on the angles of view) and a decorative effect due to a colored mirror face, which are composed at least of a light-transmitting or light-intercepting base and a brightening pigment prepared by covering mica grains on the surfaces with titanium oxides including low-valent titanium oxides.

Abstract: An archival photoprint laminate process employs a dye-bleach developed transparent print laminated on both sides using a polyurethane bonding material which includes UV inhibitors, and then fusing those three layers between opposing sheets of glass in a standard type heat-laminating process. An aliphatic polyether urethane extruded sheet is employed as the bonding material. The print is developed on ILFORD CC.F7 transparent display film by the Ilford CIBACHROME II process.

Abstract: A light emitting push button for operating purposes, for instance a number button on a telephone apparatus, includes a body which is double-molded from two different plastic materials, of which one material is light conductive and the other is opaque. Light from a light emitting device, such as a light emitting diode, striking the underside of the push button is conducted through the light conductive material and is emitted on the upper side of the button. A slot is formed between the light conductive material and the opaque material on the upper side of the button, such that light conducted through the light conductive material will be scattered uniformly and be visible from all directions.

Abstract: Disclosed is a film constituted of a polyester, said film having a degree of roll set curl of not higher than 135 m.sup.-1 after being subjected to heat treatment, and having a degree of recovery curl of not higher than 45 m.sup.-1 after being subjected to hot water bath treatment.

Abstract: The present invention relates to commercial and institutional inlaid floorcoverings having a uniform, unpatterned decorative appearance. Colored spheroidal particles having an aspect ratio no greater than about 2:1 are provided in a dense, uniform matrix layer to create the decorative appearance. Flame retardant and smoke suppressant compositions can be incorporated in the floorcoverings without detrimentally affecting their appearance.

Abstract: A transparent or translucent bath or shower panel includes a laminate of two layers of resin-impregnated fiberglass which are transparent or translucent, and a non-woven tissue arranged between the fiberglass layers and provided with any desired decorative pattern which can be viewed through either one of the fiberglass layers, and yet which is protected from contact with water and water vapor by the fiberglass layers.

Abstract: A process for the production of a laminated glass glazing having one or more wires within an intermediate thermoplastic layer and electrically connected to busbars, wherein the wires are heated by an adequate energy application locally limited to the connection points prior to the electrical connection to the busbars, to the extent that the surface layers adhering to the surface of the wires are eliminated. The application of a locally limited adequate energy supply takes place by use of laser rays, as a result of the fact that the focus of a beam of laser rays oriented perpendicular to the busbars is displaced in the longitudinal direction above and on the busbars. The wires are then welded to the busbars. The layers forming the laminated glass glazings are presently assembled in a conventional manner and joined to one another under heat and pressure.

Abstract: Molded articles having contoured, decorative outer surfaces are disclosed. The articles comprise a molded polymer substrate and a decorative surfacing film adhered to one side of the substrate. The decorative surfacing film comprises a substantially molecularly unoriented cast polymer film formed from a weatherable polymer. The articles are particularly suited for use as automobile body panels and the like. Also disclosed is a method for making such articles, and a method for making sets of such articles for assembly into automobile bodies and the like.

Abstract: Construction and method of making a simulated decorative cracked glass laminate in tile, panel, sheet, plate or veneer form. The structural element comprises in bonded combination a glass mirror and a backing layer, preferably a water-felted mineral fiberboard panel. An accurately reproduced image of decorative cracked glass is applied to the mirror, either before or after the mirror is bonded to the backing layer to provide a simulated decorative cracked glass mirror appearance with the mirror being uncracked and intact and the bonded combination being shatter-, heat- and fire-resistant. Means are provided to produce such a simulated cracked glass appearance with uncracked glass.

Abstract: Disclosed are several embodiments (10, 30, 40, 50, 60) of an award assembly having a colorized and reflective appearance. The award assemblies include a base (11, 36, 84, 62) having a reflective surface (18, 87, 72). The award assemblies have three-dimensional uprights or prisms (10, 31, 32, 33, 40, 50, 88, 61) which are made of transparent acrylic. A solvent (25) such as methylene chloride fuses the prism to the base. Also disclosed is a method for making award assemblies.

Abstract: Crosslinked, absorbent pressure sensitive adhesive compositions are disclosed comprising an acrylate or methacrylate ester of an alcohol, a hydrophilic alkylene oxide acrylate, a hydrophilic N-vinyl lactam, and an effective amount of a crosslinking agent. The compositions have an enhanced skin adhesion profile and are moderately absorbent. Also disclosed are precursor adhesive compositions and low-profile wound dressings.

Abstract: Disclosed is a film constituted of a polyester, said film having a degree of roll set curl of not higher than 135 m.sup.-1 after being subjected to heat treatment, and having a degree of recovery curl of not higher than 45 m.sup.-1 after being subjected to hot water bath treatment.

Abstract: A silver halide photographic material comprises a support and at least one silver halide emulsion layer provided thereon. The support is essentially composed of poly(ethylene-2,6-naphthalate) and has Young's modulus of 550 to 650 kg/mm.sup.2 in both lengthwise direction and widthwise direction and breaking elongation of not less than 70%.

Abstract: A permanent marking article for use with an elongate object, consisting of a strip of transparent polymeric film having an upper and a lower surface, at least a portion of the upper surface being imprintable, the polymeric film being fusible to itself with the passage of time, and remaining transparent even after fusion such that any marking placed on any portion of the article remains readable even if covered by one or more overwrapping portions of the strip.

Abstract: Molded articles having contoured, decorative outer surfaces are disclosed. The articles comprise a molded polymer substrate and a decorative surfacing film adhered to one side of the substrate. The decorative surfacing film comprises a substantially molecularly unoriented cast polymer film formed from a weatherable polymer. The articles are particularly suited for use as automobile body panels and the like. Also disclosed is a method for making such articles, and a method for making sets of such articles for assembly into automobile bodies and the like.

Abstract: A method of treating a terne coating to accelerate the patina on the terne coating. The terne coated metal is coated with a specially formulated asphalt based paint which produces a semi-transparent or translucent, dull finish on the terne coated metal. The coated terne coated metal is then exposed to the natural atmospheric elements for at least six months wherein such time enhanced oxidation of lead and tin occurs.

Abstract: A seal comprising a substrate which is at least translucent to light having a transparent masking material disposed in an indicia-defining pattern on the inner surface of the substrate. A colorant layer is disposed over the masking material and extends beyond the pattern. There is an adhesive disposed at least over the area of the colorant. The present invention also includes a tamper indicating opaque container such as an envelope or carton has a window defined within the closure flap. A translucent or transparent panel overlaying the window has a transparent masking material of low adhesion properties disposed in an indicia-defining pattern. A colorant layer is disposed over the transparent masking material and an adhesive in turn is disposed over the colorant layer and transparent masking material.

Abstract: A flexible decorative sheet material for use in surfacing automobile body panels and the like is disclosed. The sheet material is characterized by having the appearance of a base coat/clear coat paint finish. The material comprises a substantially transparent outer layer, and a pigmented coating on the undersurface of the outer layer which is visible therethrough. The pigmented coating preferably has reflective flakes uniformly distributed therein to impart to the sheet material the appearance of a base coat/clear coat paint finish. Also disclosed are shaped articles which have such sheet materials adhered to one side thereof, and a method for making such sheet materials.

Abstract: Molded articles having contoured, decorative outer surfaces are disclosed. The articles comprise a molded polymer substrate and a decorative surfacing film adhered to one side of the substrate. The decorative surfacing film comprises a substantially molecularly unoriented cast polymer film formed from a weatherable polymer. The articles are particularly suited for use as automobile body panels and the like. Also disclosed is a method for making such articles, and a method for making sets of such articles for assembly into automobile bodies and the like.

Abstract: Molded articles having contoured, decorative outer surfaces are disclosed. The articles comprise a molded polymer substrate and a decorative surfacing film adhered to one side of the substrate. The decorative surfacing film comprises a substantially molecularly unoriented cast polymer film formed from a weatherable polymer. The articles are particularly suited for use as automobile body panels and the like. Also disclosed is a method for making such articles, and a method for making sets of such articles for assembly into automobile bodies and the like.