U.S. patent application number 11/447694 was filed with the patent office on 2007-04-26 for design devices for applying a design to a surface.
Invention is credited to Todd J. Bakken, Daniel R. JR. Bullis, James F. Kimball, Eric J. Minor, Douglas S. Rodenkirch.
Application Number | 20070089621 11/447694 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36968503 |
Filed Date | 2007-04-26 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070089621 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kimball; James F. ; et
al. |
April 26, 2007 |
Design devices for applying a design to a surface
Abstract
Compositions, methods, apparatuses, kits, and combinations are
described for permanently or temporarily re-designing, decorating,
and/or re-coloring a surface. The compositions useful in the
present disclosure include a decor product that is formulated to be
applied and affixed to a surface. If desired, the decor product may
be substantially removed from the surface before being affixed
thereto. If a user desires to remove the decor product, the decor
product is formulated to be removed by a number of methods
including, for example, vacuuming, wet extraction, chemical
application, and the like. If the user desires to affix the decor
product to the surface in a permanent or semi-permanent manner, the
decor product may be affixed to the surface by applying energy
thereto in the form of, for example, heat, pressure, emitted waves,
an emitted electrical field, a magnetic field, and/or a chemical.
The decor product may also be utilized in the form of a kit or in
conjunction with a design device, such as a stencil, to control the
application of the decor product to create, for example, a pattern
on the surface.
Inventors: |
Kimball; James F.;
(Greenfield, WI) ; Bullis; Daniel R. JR.;
(Madison, WI) ; Minor; Eric J.; (Lake Villa,
IL) ; Rodenkirch; Douglas S.; (Sun Prairie, WI)
; Bakken; Todd J.; (Madison, WI) |
Correspondence
Address: |
S.C. JOHNSON & SON, INC.
1525 HOWE STREET
RACINE
WI
53403-2236
US
|
Family ID: |
36968503 |
Appl. No.: |
11/447694 |
Filed: |
June 6, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60687953 |
Jun 7, 2005 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
101/127 ;
101/128.21 |
Current CPC
Class: |
D06P 5/001 20130101;
C09D 11/0235 20130101; C11D 3/3715 20130101; Y10T 428/254 20150115;
B05C 17/06 20130101; Y10T 428/253 20150115; B44C 1/20 20130101;
C09D 5/008 20130101; D06P 1/5271 20130101; B41N 1/248 20130101;
B44C 1/105 20130101; C11D 3/3749 20130101; D06Q 1/10 20130101; D06P
1/0012 20130101; D06P 1/54 20130101; D06P 1/52 20130101; D06P
1/0016 20130101; Y10T 428/249921 20150401; C11D 11/0058 20130101;
C11D 11/007 20130101; D06P 1/5264 20130101; B41M 7/0072 20130101;
B41M 7/009 20130101; B44D 5/00 20130101; D06P 1/44 20130101; Y10T
156/10 20150115; B41N 1/242 20130101; B44C 1/18 20130101; C11D
3/3726 20130101; D06Q 1/00 20130101; Y10T 428/28 20150115; C11D
3/37 20130101; B44C 3/02 20130101; B44D 2/007 20130101; D06Q 1/06
20130101; D06P 1/613 20130101; Y10T 428/31504 20150401; Y10T 428/25
20150115 |
Class at
Publication: |
101/127 ;
101/128.21 |
International
Class: |
B05C 17/06 20060101
B05C017/06 |
Claims
1. A stencil for use in applying a design to a surface, comprising:
a first layer; a second layer disposed adjacent the first layer;
and a fibrous third layer disposed adjacent the second layer
comprising a support layer for releasable securement to a surface;
wherein at least one of the first layer and the second layer each
independently comprises a barrier layer or an absorbent layer, and
wherein the third layer is adapted to allow passage of a decor
product through the stencil and a cutout portion through the first
layer and the second layer provides a passage for applying the
decor product to the surface.
2. The stencil of claim 1, wherein the barrier layer is
hydrophobic.
3. The stencil of claim 1, wherein the absorbent layer is
hydrophilic.
4. The stencil of claim 1 further comprising a second support layer
that secures a peripheral edge of the stencil.
5. The stencil of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first layer
or the second layer further comprises a peripheral edge.
6. The stencil of claim 5 further comprising a third support layer
that secures the peripheral edge of the stencil.
7. The stencil of claim 6, wherein the first support layer and the
third support layer independently comprise at least one of a grid,
a web, a mesh, or a thread.
8. The stencil of claim 5, wherein the peripheral edge and the
cutout portion independently define at least one of an indicium, a
pattern, a shape, or a design.
9. The stencil of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first layer
or the second layer protects a portion of the surface from at least
one of application, removal, or substantial affixation of a decor
product to the surface.
10. The stencil of claim 1, wherein the stencil is configured to
interface with at least one additional stencil via an interfacing
mechanism.
11. The stencil of claim 1, wherein the first layer and the second
layer comprise substantially the same material.
12. The stencil of claim 1, wherein the cutout portion further
extends through the fibrous third support layer.
13. The stencil of claim 1, wherein the third layer comprise at
least one of a grid, a web, a mesh, or a thread.
14. A design device for use in applying a design to a surface,
comprising: a stencil; and a decor product releasably attached to
the stencil and comprising a colorant, an additive, and an adhesive
agent; wherein after the decor product is released from the stencil
onto a surface, the decor product may be substantially affixed
thereto by application of energy to the decor product and the decor
product may be substantially removed from the surface before being
substantially affixed.
15. The design device of claim 14, wherein the decor product is
formulated to be applied in an effective amount to a nylon test
carpet and form particles greater than about 1 micron in size
attached thereto, and upon vacuuming of the nylon test carpet
result in a .DELTA.E of about 20 or less.
16. The design device of claim 14, wherein the decor product
further comprises a liquid carrier and at least one of a
thermoplastic polymer or a thermoset polymer.
17. The design device of claim 14, wherein the decor product
further comprises at least one substantially homogeneous decor
particle comprising a first additive, a colorant, and at least one
of (a) an epoxy resin and a curative, (b) an epoxy resin, an
acid-terminated polyester resin, and a accelerant, or (c) an
acid-terminated polyester resin and a curative; and a liquid
carrier; wherein the decor product has a viscosity of about 2000
centipoises or less, and wherein the decor product may be
substantially affixed to the surface by heating to a temperature of
about 150.degree. C. or less for about 15 minutes or less.
18. The design device of claim 14, wherein the decor product is
releasably attached to the stencil by at least one of an adhesive
or a film, and the decor product is released onto a surface by
applying a releasing agent to the stencil.
19. The design device of claim 18, wherein the releasing agent
comprises at least one of pressure, vibration, a liquid, heat, a
chemical, or electrostatic deposition.
20. The design device of claim 14, wherein the decor product
comprises at least one of: a) about 0.1% to about 75% a
surface-active agent; b) about 0.1% to about 75% the adhesive
agent; c) about 0.1% to about 95% the colorant; or d) about 0.1% to
about 75% the additive; and the balance water.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application Ser. No. 60/687,953, filed Jun. 7, 2005, and is hereby
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
REFERENCE REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not applicable
SEQUENTIAL LISTING
[0003] Not applicable
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] 1. Field of the Invention
[0005] Enhancement of surfaces that may be permanently or
temporarily re-designed, decorated, and/or re-colored is disclosed
herein.
[0006] 2. Description of the Background of the Invention
[0007] Improving the aesthetics in homes has long been practiced by
many consumers. There is a plethora of home products and techniques
for cleaning surface areas of soft surfaces such as carpets, rugs,
draperies, curtains, upholstery, and the like. However, for more
sullied and/or worn surfaces, subtractive processes (for example, a
process that chemically or physically removes something from the
carpet, such as cleaning or shaving) cannot truly restore the
surface to its original state; this is often very frustrating for
consumers. Oftentimes, spots and stains reappear after
treatment.
[0008] Additive processes (for example, a process that layers,
covers, or masks something undesirable underneath) and techniques
for improving the aesthetics of surfaces include painting, faux
painting, stenciling, bordering, wallpapering, tiling, wainscoting,
paneling, decorative plastering, adding appliques (for example,
pictures, cut-outs, stickers, or the like), laminating, and molding
(for example, crown, shoe, and chair) are also known. However,
these products and techniques have not been applied to soft
surfaces such as carpets, rugs, draperies, curtains, upholstery,
and the like.
[0009] In some instances, color of worn, faded fabric is restored
or rejuvenated with a composition containing water soluble and/or
water dispersible polymers and a surfactant capable of forming a
bilayer structure to provide a more durable color restoration
and/or color rejuvenation benefit that lasts at least after one
washing cycle, preferably at least after two or more washing
cycles. The composition may be applied to the fabric by a spray
container.
[0010] In other instances, a method of redyeing partially bleached
fabric or garments includes dyeing the fabric or garment with a
background color and then gathering an area to restrict access to
further reagents. The gathered area is then bleached to remove the
background colors from the area outside the gathered area and then
the bleached areas are redyed with a second color.
[0011] In yet further instances, a digital printing device has a
rotatable wheel, a liquid dispenser for depositing a liquid paint,
ink, or dye on the wheel along an outer edge, and an air jet
positioned adjacent the outer edge for removing the liquid from the
outer edge and directing the liquid toward a print medium as the
wheel rotates through the air jet. A plurality of devices is used
to produce a full color digital image.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0012] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a stencil
for use in applying a design to a surface includes a first layer
including a first solid support layer, a second layer disposed
adjacent the first layer, a third layer disposed adjacent the
second layer, and a fourth layer including a second solid support
layer adjacent to the third layer for securement to a surface. At
least one of the first solid support layer or the second solid
support layer secures the edges of the stencil, and the second
layer and the third layer each independently includes a barrier
layer or an absorbent layer. A cutout portion provides a passage
through at least the second layer and the third layer for applying
a decor product to the surface.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] FIG. 1 is an illustration of one possible method of applying
a decor product to a surface;
[0014] FIG. 2 is a photomicrograph of applied decor particles on a
surface;
[0015] FIG. 3 is an illustration of one possible method of affixing
a decor product to a surface;
[0016] FIG. 4 is a photomicrograph of a decor product affixed to a
surface;
[0017] FIG. 5 is a trimetric view of a design device incorporating
multiple layers including support layers according to one
embodiment;
[0018] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along the
lines 6-6 of FIG. 5 depicting the design device;
[0019] FIG. 7 is a plan view of a design device having a peripheral
design as well as a cutout portion according to one embodiment;
[0020] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a peg that may be used in a
method for orientating a design device on a surface according to
one embodiment;
[0021] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a layout tool used to orient
pegs on a surface according to one embodiment;
[0022] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of pegs arrayed on a surface
according to one embodiment;
[0023] FIG. 11 is a partial cutaway trimetric view a
stencil-mounted peg interfacing with a second peg arrayed on a
surface according to one embodiment;
[0024] FIG. 12 is a flow diagram illustrating a method of applying
a design to a carpet;
[0025] FIG. 13 is plan view of a design device for use with the
method of FIG. 12;
[0026] FIG. 13A is a bottom plan view of the design device of FIG.
13;
[0027] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view depicting an alternate
embodiment of the design device;
[0028] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along the
lines 15-15 of FIG. 13 depicting an alternative embodiment of the
design device;
[0029] FIG. 16 is an isometric view of a border design device,
having a color-coding strip thereon, for use with the method of
FIG. 12;
[0030] FIG. 17 is an isometric view of a corner design device,
having a color-coding strip thereon, for use with the method of
FIG. 12;
[0031] FIG. 18 is an isometric view of a first end design device,
having a color-coding strip thereon, for use with the method of
FIG. 12;
[0032] FIG. 19 is an isometric view of a second end design device,
having a color-coding strip thereon, for use with the method of
FIG. 12;
[0033] FIG. 20 is a plan view of a placement of the corner design
device of FIG. 17, according to a set of instructions;
[0034] FIG. 21 is a plan view of a placement of first and second
border design devices of FIG. 16 according to a set of
instructions;
[0035] FIG. 22 is a plan view of a placement of the first and
second end design devices of FIGS. 18 and 19, respectively,
according to a set of instructions;
[0036] FIG. 23 is a plan view of a decor product affixed to a
carpet according to the placement of the design devices as
disclosed in FIGS. 20-22;
[0037] FIG. 24 is a grid pattern for use with one or more design
devices according to the method of FIG. 12; and
[0038] FIG. 25 is an illustration of a consumer aid according to
one embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0039] The present disclosure is directed to compositions, methods,
apparatuses, kits, and combinations, for permanently or temporarily
re-designing, decorating, and/or re-coloring a surface. While
several specific embodiments are discussed herein, it is understood
that the present disclosure is to be considered only as an
exemplification of the principles of the invention, and it is not
intended to limit the disclosure to the embodiments
illustrated.
[0040] For example, a composition useful in the present disclosure
includes a decor product that is formulated to be applied and
affixed to a surface. As discussed more fully below, if desired,
the decor product may be substantially removed from the surface
before being affixed thereto. If a user desires to remove the decor
product, the decor product is formulated to be removed by a number
of methods including, for example, vacuuming, wet extraction,
chemical application, and the like. If the user desires to affix
the decor product to the surface in a permanent or semi-permanent
manner, the decor product may be affixed to the surface by applying
energy thereto in the form of, for example, heat, pressure, emitted
waves, an emitted electrical field, a magnetic field, and/or a
chemical. The decor product may also be utilized in the form of a
kit or in conjunction with a design device, such as a stencil, to
control the application of the decor product to create, for
example, a pattern on the surface.
[0041] Any surface is contemplated to which the decor product may
be applied and/or affixed, including, for example, soft surfaces
such as carpets, rugs, draperies, curtains, upholstery, and the
like. In addition, the decor product may be applied to hard
surfaces as well, including, for example, wood, metal, ceramic,
glass, a polymer, a hard floor tile, a painted surface, paper,
masonry material, rock, a fiber/composite material, rubber,
concrete, and the like. It is contemplated that the decor product
may be applied to any prepared surface, including, for example,
pre-dyed, post-dyed, pre-manufactured, and post-manufactured
surfaces. Further, the decor product may be applied during the
manufacturing process of a particular good or object that includes
a surface in which the decor product may be applied. Surfaces to
which the decor product may be applied and/or affixed may be
substantially dry, substantially wet, moist, or humid depending on
the particular decor product utilized. Further, a decor product of
the present disclosure may be applied to a substantially flat,
smooth, and/or level surface or any other surface including rough,
bumpy, non-smooth, stepped, sloped, slanted, inclined, declined,
and/or disturbed surfaces.
[0042] Examples of carpets to which the decor product may be
applied and/or affixed include modular tiles and panels such as
Milliken LEGATO.RTM., Milliken TESSERAE.RTM., INTERFACEFLOR.TM.,
Tandus/C&A floorcovering, and from manufacturers such as Mohawk
Industries and Shaw Industries, Inc. Additional examples of carpets
include broadloom carpets, cut pile (velvet/plush, Saxony, frieze,
shag), loop pile (level loop, multi-level loop, and Berber), and
cut and loop pile (random sheared and tip sheared) carpets.
Additional examples of soft surfaces to which a decor product may
be applied and/or affixed thereto include, for example, area rugs
(hand woven or machine woven), draperies, curtains, upholstery, and
cellulosic materials, among others. Constituent materials of
candidate soft surfaces include, for example, natural fibers such
as wool and cotton, or synthetic fibers such as nylon 6, nylon 6-6,
polyester, polypropylene (olefin), and acrylic, among others.
[0043] Decor products of the present disclosure may be formulated,
designed, produced, manufactured, applied, removed, and/or packaged
by any formulaic, chemical, and/or physical preparation appropriate
for the specific embodiment desired, as would only be limited by
the inherent nature of the constituent ingredients. Illustrative
formulations of the decor products include a solid that may be
dissolved or dispersed in a liquid to make a liquid-based decor
product, a liquid carrier, an emulsion, a suspension, a colloid, a
sol, a dispersion, a solution, a gel, a paste, a foam, a powder, a
spray, a tablet, a solid, a gas, a diluent such as water or other
solvent, an aerosol, and combinations thereof. Examples of chemical
preparations include polyester polymerizations, latex aggregation,
chemical milling, and microencapsulization, and other methods known
to those skilled in the art. Physical preparation may consist of
physically grinding the decor product ingredients or other means
known to those skilled in the art. Decor products may be either
synthesized from a molecular route, in which polymer resin
molecules incorporate colorants, dyes, and/or pigment particles at
the molecular scale, such as in the method of manufacture used in
chemically prepared toners, or the resin and pigment particles may
be physically blended together and crushed to appropriate size by
mechanical means known to those skilled in the art.
[0044] The decor product may be chosen based on any number of
criteria, including, but not limited to the surface type,
condition, and/or composition to which the decor product is applied
and/or affixed thereto. Further criteria for choosing a decor
product include desired lightfastness, color range, intensity,
uniformity of colorant, and/or desired curative and/or fixation
properties of the decor product. Additional choice factors include
enhancement of the appearance and/or feel of the carpet or other
surface, masking a stain (for example, by laying an area rug-type
decor product), or value adding to a surface (for example, to
extend the life of a carpet).
[0045] A decor product useful in the present disclosure may
comprise any one or combination of a colorant that includes, for
example, a coloring agent, a dye, an ink, a toner, a paint, a
patch, a carpet glitter, a fluorescent material, a composite
thermal transfer sheet, a particle, a coating, a pigment, a
luminescent material, a microparticle, magnetically responsive
particles, a virtual colorant which is not colored until activated,
and/or a colorant with hybrid pigment molecules, an additive, and
combinations thereof. Illustratively, a decor product composition
contains a colorant in an amount of greater than about 0.01% or
less than about 95%, or between about 0.01% to about 70%, or
between about 0.03% to about 15%, or about 0.05% to about 10%, or
between about 0.1% to about 5%, of the total weight of the decor
product.
[0046] Any imaginable color of the decor product is contemplated in
the present disclosure including, but not limited to cyan, yellow,
magenta, black, green, orange, violet, blue, red, purple, white
silver, gold, metallic, clear, neutral, or non-neutral, and any
combination thereof. Color may be imparted to the decor product by
combining varying amounts of monochromic decor product particles of
different colors or by combining varying amounts of polychromic
decor product particles having different colors. Further, a
specific decor product color may be achieved by combining
predetermined amounts of monochromic particles of different colors
or by combining predetermined amounts of polychromic decor product
particles of different colors. In this way, all imaginable colors
may be incorporated into the decor product.
[0047] The decor product may also comprise a virtual colorant that
is not apparently colored until activated and/or deactivated. As an
example, phosphorous containing colorants may be incorporated into
a decor product to add special effects via fluorescent properties.
Further, virtual colorants may add special visual effects by
altering the apparent decor appearance according to light
intensity, light angle, angle of view, and/or illumination of the
decor product. Such activation of the virtual colorant includes,
for example, exposing a phosphorous containing virtual colorant to
various wavelengths of light. As known to those skilled in the art,
phosphor containing compounds luminesce or fluoresce when exposed
to light. When exposed to visible light, phosphor gives off visible
white light. Exposure of a phosphor containing virtual colorant to
sunlight may also make whites appear brighter because the
ultraviolet light in sunlight gives the appearance that the whites
in the virtual colorant glow brighter than "normal" white. When
exposed to black light from, for example, a substantially
ultraviolet-A wavelength emitting light bulb, phosphorous
containing compounds glow with a purple hue. Black light can be
provided, for example, from a tube black light that is basically a
fluorescent lamp with a modified phosphor coating. This modified
coating absorbs harmful shortwave ultraviolet-B and ultraviolet-C
wavelengths and emits ultraviolet-A wavelengths. The tube of the
tube black light is black so as to block most visible light while
emitting mostly long-wave ultraviolet-A wavelengths. Another useful
type of black light includes black light provided from an
incandescent black light bulb. The black light emitting
incandescent black light bulb is similar to a normal household
light bulb, but incorporates a filter that absorbs most visible
light while emitting infrared and ultraviolet-A light.
[0048] In a further embodiment, decor products containing virtual
colorants may serve as night lights, indicate routes from room to
room, exit routes, and/or escape routes.
[0049] Any number of products may be used in the decor product to
impart reversible coloring to a surface. Such products include, for
example, dyes, toners, powder paints, inks, and combinations
thereof. Examples of dyes that may be used include water-based dyes
such as LIQUIDTAINT.TM. and VERSATINT.RTM. by Milliken Chemical
Company. Examples of toners that may be used include reactive
toners such as powder toners. Examples of useful powder toners
include those that are available from Sawgrass Technologies, Inc.,
such as NATURA.TM. powder toners, as well as the formulations
and/or compositions individually disclosed in the U.S. patents and
published patent applications provided below in Table No. 1.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE NO. 1 Powder toner formulations.
Patent/Publication No. Patent/Publication No. Patent/Publication
No. U.S. Pat. No. 6,649,317 U.S. Pat. No. 5,644,988 U.S. Pat. No.
5,248,363 U.S. Pat. No. 6,673,503 U.S. Pat. No. 6,425,331 U.S. Pat.
No. 6,686,314 U.S. Pat. No. 6,618,066 U.S. Pat. No. 6,439,710 U.S.
Pat. No. 6,631,984 U.S. Pat. No. 6,840,614 U.S. Pat. No. 6,450,098
U.S. Pat. No. 6,894,087 U.S. Pat. No. 6,849,370 U.S. Pat. No.
5,246,518 U.S. Pat. No. 6,794,426 U.S. Pat. No. 6,887,640 U.S. Pat.
No. 5,302,223 U.S. Pat. No. 6,759,450 U.S. Pat. No. 5,734,396 U.S.
Pat. No. 5,746,816 U.S. Pat. No. 6,737,450 U.S. Pat. No. 5,488,907
U.S. Pat. No. 6,341,856 U.S. Pat. No. 6,710,102 U.S. Pat. No.
5,487,614 U.S. Pat. No. 6,152,038 U.S. Pat. No. 6,664,311 U.S. Pat.
No. 5,601,023 U.S. Pat. No. 6,348,939 U.S. Pat. No. 6,348,679 U.S.
Pat. No. 5,642,141 U.S. Pat. No. 6,402,313 U.S. Pat. No.
2005/0123743 U.S. Pat. No. 5,830,263 U.S. Pat. No. 6,486,903 U.S.
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U.S. Pat. No. 6,649,888 U.S. Pat. No. 5,522,317 U.S. Pat. No.
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[0050] Toner particles useful in the present disclosure may have
size characteristics of about 90% or more of the particles having a
size less than about 100 microns, or less than about 25 microns, or
less than about 10 microns, or from about 0.1 to about 50 microns,
or from about 1 to about 20 microns, or from about 3 to about 10
microns, or from greater than about 750 nm to about 100 microns, or
larger or smaller particle sizes depending on the desired
application. In one embodiment, the toner particle melting point
ranges from about 60.degree. C. or less, to about 150.degree. C. or
higher, or from about 60.degree. C. to about 275.degree. C., or
from about 25.degree. C. to about 110.degree. C., or from about
80.degree. C. to about 100.degree. C.
[0051] Other toners, compositions, additives, and curing processes
useful in the present disclosure are disclosed in, for example,
U.S. Pat. No. 6,850,725. Yet other toners, compositions, additives,
and curing processes useful in the present disclosure are disclosed
in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,713,222. Still other toners,
compositions, additives, and curing processes useful in the present
disclosure are disclosed in, for example, U.S. Pat. No.
6,680,153.
[0052] Examples of powder paints that may be useful include those
with epoxy, polyester, polyurethane, and hybrid chemistries either
as additives or as decor particles, described hereinafter. An
example of a hybrid chemistry contemplated for use is an
epoxy-polyester hybrid, which is routinely used in the reactive
powder coating industry. Typical particle sizes for powder paints
can range, for example, from greater than about 20 microns to about
50 microns; however, for purposes of the present disclosure, larger
and smaller sizes are contemplated and may depend on, for example,
the reversibility and/or affixation properties desired. Typical
powder paints may have melting point temperatures from around about
107.degree. C. to about 163.degree. C. to about 302.degree. C.;
however, lower and higher temperatures are contemplated within the
present disclosure.
[0053] Further, the decor product may comprise a colorant with a
hybrid pigment particle. An example of a hybrid pigment particle
may be, for example, a dye and pigment combination. In this
embodiment, the pigment molecule may coat a fiber surface, while
the dye molecule penetrates the fiber.
[0054] In another embodiment, the decor product is formulated to
include one or more thermoplastic resins, thermoset resins,
colorants, additives, and/or liquid carriers. Examples of
thermoplastic resins include polymeric materials such as
polyesters, unsaturated polyesters, styrene-butadiene copolymers,
polyurethanes, styrene-acrylates, and/or acrylics. Illustratively,
thermoplastic and/or thermoset resins that may be useful in the
present disclosure have a melting point of about 260.degree. C. or
less, for example.
[0055] In another embodiment, the decor product may include
encapsulated decor product particles including, for example,
nanoencapsulated, microencapsulated, macroencapsulated, and
compartmentalized particles. Illustratively, microencapsulated
decor product particles may include, for example, one or more outer
shells, one or more inner compartments, one or more colorants,
and/or one or more additives. The one or more colorants and/or one
or more additives may be in the same or different compartments.
This microencapsulated decor product particle may, for example,
provide advantages such as to lengthen the shelf-life of the decor
product, enhance decor product compatibility with delivery systems,
promote bonding of the decor product to the surface, promote
removability of the decor product from surfaces before and/or after
fixation, and/or promote thermal fixation of the decor product to a
surface. Other benefits associated with encapsulation of compounds
include, for example, timed release of compounds, and buffering
systems, among others known to those skilled in the art, and are
contemplated in the present disclosure. The compartmentalized
and/or microencapsulated decor product particles may have multiple
distinct regions of equal and/or differing sizes containing the
same and/or differing substances, such as, for example, one or more
solids, one or more liquids, one or more gases, and/or combinations
thereof. As an example, microencapsulation technologies useful in
the present disclosure are provided by Microtek Laboratories,
Inc.
[0056] In a further embodiment, the decor product may include a
removable paint and/or surface coating. In this regard, the decor
product may be removable via wet-chemistries, such as
ammonia-based, acid-based, and/or water-based chemistries.
Illustratively, the decor product may be a liquid with one or more
surfactants, zinc oxide, and/or one or more colored pigments. The
decor product of the present embodiment may be removed by, for
example, a weak acid, a buffering agent, a mildly alkaline
solution, a polar or non-polar solution, a detergent, a soap, an
alcohol, and/or a solid compound, and/or combinations thereof.
[0057] Illustrative ammonia-based chemistries useful in the present
disclosure include those supplied by Missouri Turf Paint (for
example, TITAN.TM. Removable), or by Pioneer, or by Sports
Coatings, or by Specialist Group. Acid-based chemistries useful in
the decor product of the present disclosure include those supplied
by Remarkable Paint Company, and include, for example, those found
in RE-MARKABLE.RTM. Paint. Additional remarkable field paints
useful in the present disclosure include those disclosed in, for
example, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0127376.
Other useful examples of remarkable field paints in the present
disclosure include those disclosed in, for example, U.S. Pat. No.
6,653,265. Additional examples of strippable ammonia formulations
useful in a decor product of the present disclosure include those
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,041,488 and those that include
susceptible styrene/acrylic compounds. Other useful water-based
dyes and compositions include those disclosed in, for example, U.S.
Pat. No. 6,834,589.
[0058] Water-based chemistries useful in the present disclosure
include those supplied by Magic Colors Company (for example, Remove
It Permanent Paint System). It is further contemplated that aqueous
fabric paints and/or paint systems may be useful in the decor
product embodiments of the present disclosure. Examples of aqueous
fabric paints useful in the present disclosure include, for
example, Jacquard Products including Jacquard Textile Colors,
DYE-NA-FLOW.TM., and NEOPAGUE.TM., Marabu-Textil made by
Marabuwerke GmbH & Co. KG, and SIMPLY SPRAY.TM. available from
Sunshine Joy Distributing. Wet-erase inks removable by solvents
after short or extended periods of time that can be used on
multiple surfaces are also useful in the present disclosure. Such
wet-erase inks may incorporate water-soluble binders, cellulose
derivatives, and/or polyvinyl pyrolidone.
[0059] Additional embodiments may incorporate dry erase inks,
peelable and/or strippable coatings, alkali soluble resins, and
various value adding chemistries disclosed herein. Examples of
dry-erase inks, compositions, and applicators thereof may include
those provided by ITW Dymon, Pilot Pen Corp., Sanford Corp., Avery
Dennison Corp., Binney & Smith Inc., and Dainippon Ink and
Chemicals, Inc. Other dry erase inks, compositions, and applicators
that may be useful in the present disclosure include those
disclosed in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,031,023.
[0060] Additional useful formulations of the present disclosure
include peelable and/or strippable coatings made by Spraylat
International, LTD. In addition, it is contemplated that the decor
product may include a thermally releasable coating and/or blowing
agent to aid in the removal of the affixed decor product. An
example of thermally releasable coatings and blowing agents useful
in the present disclosure includes those disclosed in, for example,
U.S. Pat. No. 5,010,131. Other coatings useful in the present
disclosure include nanoparticle coating compositions disclosed in,
for example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,872,444.
[0061] In another embodiment, the decor product incorporates alkali
soluble resin systems. Examples alkali resin systems include
styrene/maleic anhydride, styrene/acrylic and methacrylic acid,
isobutylene/maleic anhydride copolymers, and proprionic
acid-modified urethanes. Alkali resin systems useful in the present
disclosure are available from companies such as BASF Corp., Kuraray
Co., LTD, Johnson Polymer, Rohm and Haas Co., Interpolymer Corp.,
Scott Bader Co., LTD, Sartomer Co., and DSM NeoResins, among
others. Examples of useful additives for alkali soluble resin
systems include divalent zinc salts. Other useful alkali soluble
resin systems are further disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,147,041.
Additional alkali soluble resin systems include, for example, those
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,453,459.
[0062] Further embodiments of the present disclosure may
incorporate value adding chemistries including powder coatings,
toner and/or ink chemistries, carpet stain removers and/or maskers,
odor eliminators and/or absorbers, bleaching agents. Compositions
and methods of carpet stain removing and/or masking useful in the
present disclosure include those disclosed in Attorney Docket Nos.
J-4377A, J-4377B, J-4377C, and J-4550 (U.S. Patent Application Nos.
to be assigned), filed on the same day as the present application,
the disclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference.
Further, technologies used in aftermarket carpet dyeing in the
automotive industry may be useful in the present disclosure,
including, for example, the "Pro Dye System" available from Top of
the Line. An additional contemplated chemistry includes ultraviolet
radiation cross-linking agents that crosslink decor product
particles in preparation for affixation of the decor product to a
surface or removal therefrom.
[0063] In other embodiments, a decor product contemplated in the
present disclosure may include one or more additives that may be
incorporated, for example, during formulation, added
post-formulation prior to application of the decor product to a
surface, and/or after the decor product has been applied to the
surface. Illustrative additives useful in the present disclosure
include, for example, a filler, a metallic particle, an adhesive, a
binder, a toner, a resin such as an acrylic, an acrylic latex, a
polyester, a urethane, and/or an epoxy resin, a carrier, a wax, a
charge additive, a protein, an overcoating lacquer such as an
ultraviolet initiator, an ultraviolet light absorber, an
ultraviolet stabilizer, an ultraviolet blocker, a stabilizer, a
thickening agent, anti-wicking additives, a dry powder, a
surfactant, a wetting agent, an emulsifier, a coating, a dispersing
agent, a perfume, a fragrance, a pigment, a dye, a preservative, a
solvent, a lubricant, a fluidity improver, a flow additive, a
humectant, a propellant (for example, a pressurized gas or a
hydrocarbon based propellant such as butane and propane), an
inorganic particulate additive, magnetically responsive
microparticles, temporal emission agents, additives providing a
safety benefit, additives providing a surface protection benefit,
electrical additives, interactive sensory additives, a degassing
agent, an antioxidant, a heat stabilizer, a wax, a silicone
additive, a catalyst, a texturing agent, an electrical charge
control agent, an electrical conductivity agent, a processing aid,
a dry powder of a metal salt, a metal salt of a fatty acid, a
colloidal silica, an inductive ingredient, and/or a metal oxide,
and combinations thereof. Illustratively, a decor product
composition contains an additive in an amount of greater than about
0.1%, or less than about 75%, or between about 0% to about 50%, or
between about 0.001% to about 30%, or between about 0.01% to about
10%, or between about 0.1% to about 5%, of the total weight of the
decor product.
[0064] An adhesive or binder may include resin particles chosen to
exhibit a glass transition temperature that is lower than the glass
transition temperature of resins employed in the color toners.
Adhesives and/or binders with lower glass transition temperatures
may positively affect the aesthetic feel of the decor after
affixation. In addition, such adhesives and/or binders may augment
the stability of a composition prepared as an emulsion and provide
greater mechanical bonding of the decor product to carpet fibers
including, for example, elastomeric materials including
styrene/isoprene, styrene/butadiene, and isobutylene. Adhesives and
binders may also be selected based on the reversibility on a soft
surface, including, for example, nylon and polyester carpets,
before and/or after a curing step, such as, for example, Alcoprint
PTU (Ciba Geigy Corp.). A high level of retention after curing may
also be desirable in certain applications. Examples of adhesives
useful in the present disclosure include polymeric resin and may
provide a laminating adhesive between a polymeric resin particle
and/or between a soft surface and the polymeric resin particle. In
one embodiment, the polymeric resin, for example, a toner such as a
clear toner, may also act as an adhesive. Examples of adhesives and
binders useful in the present disclosure include STYRONAL.RTM.656,
a styrene butadiene copolymer latex from BASF Corp., and
INCOREZ.RTM. W2450, a urethane/acrylic emulsion from Industrial
Copolymers Unlimited in the UK. Other resins useful in the present
disclosure include, for example, crosslinked terpolymers of
styrene, acrylate ester, and acrylonitrile available from Zeon
Chemical L.P., which include toner resins S-103C and S-111, and
styrene-acrylic resins available from Sekisui Chemicals Co. LTD,
including S-LEC resin that is based on a styrene and acrylic
copolymer. Other resins useful in the present disclosure include,
for example, styrene/butadiene, styrene/butyl acrylate,
styrene/2-ethylhexyl acrylate, and styrene/butylacrylate resins
available from Elikem, including those under the PLIOTONE.TM. trade
name. Polyester resins may offer lower temperature fusing than
styrene/acrylates or styrene/butadiene resins permitting the
application of less heat to the decor product and/or the soft
surface. Illustrative polyester resins include thermoset
polyesters, unsaturated polyester resins, such as, orthophthalic,
isophthalic, dicyclopentadiene, and bisphenol A fumarate resins,
and those available from, for example, Kao Specialties Americas,
LLC. Polyurethane resins, including those based on an exothermic
reaction of an organic polyisocyanate with a polyol, are also
useful in the present disclosure. Illustratively, a decor product
composition contains an adhesive in an amount of greater than about
0.1%, or less than about 75%, or between about 0% to about 50%, or
between about 0.001% to about 30%, or between about 0.01% to about
10%, or between about 0.1% to about 5%, of the total weight of the
decor product.
[0065] Illustrative stabilizers include a benzophenone, a
benzotriazole, a salicylate, a nickel organic, a monobenzoate, a
formamidene, an oxalanilide and/or a phenol. Examples of an
ultraviolet stabilizer that provides enhanced protection against
ultraviolet light includes those disclosed in, for example, U.S.
Pat. No. 6,152,038. Examples of thickening agents useful in the
present disclosure include those disclosed in, for example, U.S.
Pat. No. 6,752,841. Examples of anti-wicking additives useful in
the present disclosure can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,116,682.
[0066] Another embodiment contemplated in the present disclosure
may incorporate one or more surface-active (surfactant) agents, for
example, emulsifiers. The use of surfactants in the decor product
may promote colorant and/or filler wetting, as well as improve flow
and leveling of the powder finish. In addition, surfactants promote
substrate wet-out during the cure reaction, which improves adhesion
and corrosion resistance of the decor product. The addition of
surfactants may increase the gloss and distinctness of images of
the cured decor product, as well. The addition of one or more
surfactants may act to stabilize the decor product formulation, as
well as to assist in suspending the particles of a decor product
formulation and attaching the decor product to a surface.
Surfactants useful in the present disclosure include ionic,
nonionic, and/or cationic surfactants. Emulsifiers and/or
emulsifying agents useful herein include ALCOPRIN.TM. PTU from Ciba
Geigy Corp., the JONCRYL.TM. series of emulsifying agents available
from Johnson Polymer, and others known to those skilled in the art
including, for example, adhesive formulations and latex
formulations. Other examples of suitable emulsifiers include sodium
laurylsulfate, potassium laurylsulfate, or ammonium laurylsulfate,
including, for example TRITON.TM. 100
(octylphenoxypolyethoxy-ethanol-polyethylene glycol). Illustrative
examples of cationic surfactants include dodecyl ammonium chloride,
dodecyl ammonium bromide, dodecyl trimethyl ammonium bromide,
dodecyl pyridinium chloride, dodecyl pyridinium bromide, and
hexadecyl trimethyl ammonium bromide. Illustrative examples of
anionic surfactants include aliphatic soap such as sodium stearate,
sodium dodecanate, sodium dodecyl sulfate, sodium
dodecylbenzenesulfonate, and sodium laurylsulfate. Illustrative
examples of nonionic surfactants include poly-oxyethylenedodecyl
ether, polyoxyethylenehexadecyl ether, polyoxyethylenenonylphenyl
ether, polyoxyethylenelauryl ether, polyoxyethylene sorbitan
monoleate ether, and monodecanoyl sucrose. Illustratively, a decor
product composition contains a surfactant in an amount of greater
than about 0.001%, or less than about 75%, or between about 0.001%
to about 50%, or between about 0.1% to about 30%, or between about
0.01% to about 10%, or between about 0.1% to about 5% of the total
weight of the decor product.
[0067] A fluidity improver useful herein includes, for example,
styrene resin, acrylic resin, finely divided hydrophobic silica
powder, finely divided titanium oxide powder and finely divided
aluminum oxide powder. Further additives may serve as fiber wetting
promoters, fiber drying promoters, fiber cleaners, and fiber
cleaning promoters. A formulation of the present disclosure may
also contain an inorganic particulate material such as, for
example, magnetite, ferrite, cerium oxide, strontium titanate
and/or electrically conductive titania.
[0068] The decor product may include magnetically responsive
microparticles with or without colorant. In this embodiment, the
decor product may be applied using a static charge and/or
magnetically directed force. As an example, iron oxide and/or other
magnetic particles known to those in the art form a part of the
formulation rendering the decor product magnetically responsive.
The magnetically responsive property may be used for further
placement onto the fiber and/or for enhanced removal from the fiber
and/or to aid with aesthetic considerations such as creating
designs and/or patterns.
[0069] Further, the decor product envisioned in the present
disclosure may have additives designed to impart additional
non-visual benefits such as fragrancing and aromatherapy. Further
additives may include temporal emission agents, for example, short-
or long-term emission agents, such as spot cleaners and odor
eliminators, and the like, and/or bioactive agent additives such as
bactericides, miticides, insecticides, pesticides, and/or
fungicides, which are released over periods of seconds to minutes
to hours to days to weeks to months to years.
[0070] Further, the decor product may incorporate additives such as
fire retardants and anti-slip agents. Further, the applied decor
product may serve to protect the surface areas to which it is
affixed from stains, chips, dents, rips, blemishes, burns,
splintering, abrasion, cuts, rust, oxidation, water damage, mold,
and/or dirt. Further, the applied decor product may serve as an
electrical insulator, for example, to reduce static electrical
charges.
[0071] In another embodiment, a decor product of the present
disclosure may incorporate interactive sensory elements that
interact with one or more senses of the user. Examples of
interactive elements include mood lighting, sound (for example,
music, indicative sound, or instructive sound), and scent (for
example, fragrance emitters, deodorizers, and/or odiferous pet
barriers only detectable by animals).
[0072] Illustratively, a formulation of a decor product, for
example, an emulsion, contains on a weight to weight basis, at
least one of: 1) a surface-active agent in an amount of greater
than about 0.1%, or less than about 75%, or between about 0% to
about 50%, or between about 0.001% to about 30%, or between about
0.01% to about 10%; or between about 0.1% to about 5%; 2) an
adhesive agent in an amount of greater than about 0.1% or less than
about 75%, or between about 0% to about 50%, or between about
0.001% to about 30%, or between about 0.01% to about 10%; or
between about 0.1% to about 5%; 3) a colorant in an amount of
greater than about 0.01% or less than about 95%, or between about
0.01% to about 70%, or between about 0.03% to about 15%, or about
0.05% to about 10%; or between about 0.1% to about 5%; 4) an
additive in an amount of greater than about 0.1%, or less than
about 75%, or between about 0% to about 50%, or between about
0.001% to about 30%, or between about 0.01% to about 10%; or
between about 0.1% to about 5%; and 5) the balance water.
[0073] A clear toner may also be included in a decor product
composition of the present disclosure in an amount equivalent to,
for example, the amount of the colorant. For example, in a toner
formulation having 10% by weight a colorant, an additional 10% by
weight of the toner formulation contains a clear toner.
Illustratively, in a toner formulation with about 0.5% w/w yellow
colorant, about 0.4% w/w magenta colorant, and about 0.2% blue
colorant, the toner formulation also contains about 1.1% clear
toner. In another example, an emulsifier contains about 100 grams
of water, about 1 gram of yellow NATURA.TM. toner, about 0.4 grams
of blue NATURA.TM. toner, about 0.8 grams of magenta
NATURA.TM.toner, about 2.2 grams of clear NATURA.TM. toner, and
about 0.33 grams of ALCOPRIN.TM. PTU. An emulsion of the present
disclosure may be made by mixing the various components of the
emulsion for a period of time until the particles of the emulsion
are coated with the emulsifying agent or agents. The coating of the
particles may enhance the stability of the formulation. The mixing
time depends on the particular components utilized in a formulation
and can range from, for example, from about 1 minute or less to
about 48 hours, or longer.
[0074] In another embodiment, the decor product may be formulated
as a stain-removing and masking agent containing a base color such
as a white and/or neutral color and/or other color onto which
additional desired colors may be overlain. Illustratively, the
decor product may contain a pH neutralizing and/or adjusting
pretreatment compound such as, for example, a peroxide and/or a
bleach, and/or a titanium dioxide-type neutral color application.
The decor product may further include a stain-masking agent and/or
coloring agent as disclosed herein. Another embodiment contemplates
the application of a highly pigmented coating that has a white
and/or neutral color that provides a mask and/or hides a color
difference (for example, a stain) on a surface. Further, another
material with a color matching the bulk fiber of the surface (for
example, a carpet or textile) may be applied subsequent to the
masking of the stain.
[0075] In yet another embodiment, a decor product composition may
have a glass transition temperature (Tg) from below about
25.degree. C. up to the melting temperature (Tm) of the surface
substrate to which it is to be applied. In a further embodiment,
the Tg ranges from about 45.degree. C. to about 75.degree. C., or
from about 45.degree. C. to about 60.degree. C., or from about
45.degree. C. to about 70.degree. C., or about 55.degree. C. The Tg
and Tm of a composition or a surface substrate may be measured by
methods known to those skilled in the art including, for example,
dynamic mechanical analysis, thermomechanical analysis, and
differential scanning calorimetry. Illustratively, Tg and Tm values
of decor products and surface substrates may be determined using a
Model Q100 Differential Scanning Calorimeter (TA Instruments, Inc.)
at a heating rate of 20.degree. C./min.
[0076] In still another embodiment, the decor product composition
has an Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI) cone and plate viscosity
of equal to or less than about 2,000 centipoises, or about 5
centipoises to about 100 centipoises, or about 15 centipoises to
about 50 centipoises, or about 25 centipoises, or about 35
centipoises at about 150.degree. C. to about 200.degree. C. The
viscosity of a composition may by measured by methods known to
those skilled in the art, including for example, using a
Wells-Brookfield Cone/Plate viscometer distributed by Can-Am
Instruments LTD and following methods as set forth in
D4287-00(2005) "Standard Test Method for High-Shear Viscosity Using
a Cone/Plate Viscometer," ASTM International. Further, a Brookfield
CAP 2000H Cone and Plate Viscometer (available from Brookfield
Engineering Laboratories, Inc.) set at 750 rpm for 25 seconds using
a size six spindle may be used to measure the ICI Cone and Plate
viscosity of the decor product composition.
[0077] Application of the decor product contemplated in the present
disclosure may occur by any appropriate way that is compatible with
the decor product formulation utilized. Illustrative ways to apply
the decor product to a surface include the use of an ink jet
printer, a jet dye process, silk screening, and/or rotary printing.
Further, the decor product may be applied and/or dispensed with
and/or by a spray gun, a sheet, a film, a matrix, a roller, a
brush, a marker, a pen, a stamp such as a self-inking stamp, a pump
sprayer, a trigger sprayer, a pressurized spraying device, a
sponge, a squeegee, an airbrush, a fiber separator, a dye
applicator, a roller, piezoelectric or heat driven delivery, a
manual or electronic sifter, a powder "puff", a felted/flocked
brush, and/or a powder paint dispenser. The decor product may be
applied in a wet form, such as, for example, as a suspension or
emulsion including, for example, a liquid-based solvent, a foam, a
spray, a wet aerosol, or in a dry form, such as, for example, as a
powder, a dry aerosol, and/or a powder with a gentle mist.
[0078] By way of example, one possible method of applying a decor
product to a selected surface is generally depicted in FIG. 1.
Here, a finger pump sprayer 12 including a reservoir 14 for holding
the decor product and finger pump 16 is used to apply a generally
cone-shaped dispersion 18 of decor product to a surface 20 such as
a carpet. In this embodiment, by varying the distance of the finger
pump sprayer 12 from the surface 20 and angle of the finger pump
sprayer relative to the surface, the size and shape of the pattern
22 imparted to the surface may be varied. In this way, a
preselected pattern may be imparted to a surface using a
"free-hand" technique without a design device.
[0079] Additional examples of applicators and/or dispensers of the
decor product of the present disclosure include, for example, an
intermittent pressurized sprayer (such as PULL 'N SPRAY.RTM.liquid
applicator marketed by The Scotts and Miracle-Gro Company), an
actuator spray bottle, a trigger sprayer, a mechanical spray
bottle, a pump and/or pump system, a liquid refill containing the
decor product for a pressurized air chamber, an aerosol barrier
pack containing the decor product with a driving chamber (with a
propellant, for example, carbon dioxide or a hydrocarbon), and a
liquid or gel chamber for containing the decor product where use
would allow pressurized spraying with reduced propellant release to
the atmosphere or room being decorated by the user. Other useful
sprayers include those disclosed in, for example, U.S. Pat. No.
6,872,444.
[0080] Still further other ways to distribute the decor product
include, for example, a decor product impregnated sheet that
contains entrapped dry or wet decor product particles that when
wetted or otherwise activated, releases the decor product onto the
surface. Another example includes a decor product impregnated sheet
containing entrapped liquid that releases the decor product onto
the surface upon pressure application or controlled puncture. A
further example includes a decor product impregnated sheet with
liquid rolled or stamped thereon that promotes even distribution of
the decor product. Still another example includes an apertured or
perforated decor product impregnated film that collects and/or
directs a releasing substance that once applied to the film
releases the decor product onto a surface. Yet another example
includes a decor product impregnated matrix containing therein
and/or thereon entrapped decor product formulation that releases
the decor product onto a surface upon pressure, vibration, liquid
transfer, heat application, and/or chemical means and/or by an
electrostatic deposition device that meters an amount of decor
product to be applied to a surface and precisely lays the decor
product on the surface.
[0081] Still further ways for application of the decor product
include a multiple chamber system that mixes the decor product upon
dispensing to give the desired decor product color or other
characteristic, such as are exemplified in part by trigger release
systems (for example, DLS100, DLS 200, or Versitech systems
manufactured by Take 5, Anaheim, Calif. (www.take5net.com)), pump
systems (for example, VERSADIAL.RTM. manufactured by Versadial, New
York, New York, a company under the Sea Change Group)
(www.versadialworld.com)), or a multichamber mixer/dispenser that
is combined with a decor product applicator (for example, a brush,
a spray bottle, or other applicator). Further, premixed
ready-to-use bottles and/or spray cans may be used to distribute
and apply the decor product.
[0082] Additional technologies contemplated for application and/or
dispersion of the decor product include multifuictional devices,
such as, for example, a device that combines packaging, design
positioning, decor product application, and/or removal of a design
device from a surface. For example, in one embodiment, a design
device, for example, a stencil contains the decor product, which
can be released onto a surface by applying a releasing agent, such
as water, to the stencil. As an example, the use of a dry decor
product may be reversibly attached to a stencil by means of a
water-soluble adhesive or the decor product may be attached to a
sticky side of a water-soluble transparent film. Further
technologies contemplated include sprayers that impart charges to
colorant droplets and/or stencils (similar to powder painting),
sponging, and felt tip pens and liners.
[0083] The decor product in one embodiment may be applied using
heat transfer technology including, for example, that used by color
copying machines such as a Xerox DOCUCOLOR.TM. 12 printing onto
Xerox 3R5811 or another similar transfer paper and/or similar
combinations of materials provided by Hewlett Packard, Canon, Geo
Knight & Co, Ave y Dennison, and 3M.
[0084] Differing application factors are contemplated for
encapsulated decor product particles including control release,
temperature release, concentration release, and any other release
mechanism known to those skilled in the art. For example, release
of the contents of a microencapsulated decor product particle
contents may be triggered by changes in pH, such as by applying a
common solvent such as, for example, an ammonia-containing
solution. Examples of a temperature release mechanism include
exposure of the microencapsulated decor product particles to a
temperature above a release threshold, where the release of the
microencapsulated decor product particle contents only occurs above
the predetermined threshold temperature. A concentration release
application may apply a portion of a colorant to the surface over
an extended period of time to render a more evenly distributed
and/or more thoroughly distributed appearance of the colorant to a
surface. Illustratively, a microencapsulated decor product particle
with a polymer resin particle shell and containing trapped colorant
particles and/or other compounds disclosed herein may be activated
by thermal activation and/or specific chemistry-related activation
(including, for example pH modulation using, for example, ammonia).
As such, the outer polymer shell would melt and/or dissolve, and
the colorant particles and/or other microparticle contents may be
allowed to flow and thus be applied to the surface. Nonexclusive
examples of release mechanisms useful in the present disclosure
include those found in U.S. Pat. No. 6,893,662. Additional release
mechanisms contemplated for treating of the microencapsulated decor
particle result in at least one of breaking, heating, weakening,
and/or dissolving one or more shells of a decor particle.
[0085] A decor product once applied and/or affixed to the surface
may be temporary, permanent, and/or semi-permanent. An example of a
semi-permanent decor product includes a decor product with a
temporary adhesive that adheres and/or attaches a decor particle to
the surface. Such a formulation may provide short term durability,
for example, hours to weeks, of the decor product on a surface by
substantially adhering and/or attaching the decor product thereon.
In one embodiment, short term durability allows the decor product
to be applied to a surface for an occasion, special event, and/or
holiday without the decor product needing to be affixed to the
surface and at the same time being easily removable therefrom. An
example of decor product attachment to a surface is seen in FIG. 2,
which is a scanning electron micrograph showing dry decor particles
32 attached to an individual nylon carpet fiber 34.
[0086] Removal of the decor product from the surface may be either
through dry removal methods or wet removal methods such as through
using various devices and methods including, for example, a vacuum,
a vacuum combined with mechanical action such as agitation, wet
extraction, steam cleaning, chemical application (for example,
applying an organic or inorganic solvent), using an ultrasound
process, using detergents, using dilute ammonia solutions, and/or
using an abrasive eraser. Some or all of the aforementioned
processes may be employed to remove the decor product prior to
and/or after setting, affixing, and/or curing of the decor product
on or to the surface.
[0087] Examples of solvents useful in the present disclosure
include polar and/or nonpolar solvents, including those disclosed
in the Handbook of Organic Solvent Properties, Smallwood, I.M.
1996, Elsevier. Such solvents include, for example, water,
hydrocarbons, aromatic hydrocarbons, aliphatic hydrocarbon solvents
such as aliphatic alcohols, other alcohols, glycol ethers, nitrated
and chlorinated solvents such as chlorinated hydrocarbons, ketones,
ethers, and/or esters. Other useful solvents include acetone,
amines, benzyl acetate, phenols, polyvinyl alcohol, and/or the
organic sulfone or sulfoxide families including dimethyl sulfoxide.
Detergents and soaps may also be used to remove a decor product
from the surface. Combinations of the above may also be used.
[0088] By way of example, reversibility of a decor product applied
to a surface may be determined in the following manner. Initially,
a test surface, such as, for example, a two-foot by two-foot square
piece of nylon and/or polyester carpet is thoroughly cleaned using
an upright vacuum cleaner (for example, a Bissell CLEANVIEW.RTM.
vacuum cleaner, manufactured by Bissell Homecare, Inc.) to remove
loose fibers and/or dirt. The baseline color of each of three spots
over which the decor product is applied is determined using a
colorimeter such as a Minolta data processor model DP-301 combined
with a Minolta model CR-310 chroma meter (both manufactured by
Konica Minolta Sensing Americas, Inc.) set to the "L-a-b" setting
to allow determination of AE (color change) and calibrated
according to the manufacturer's instructions.
[0089] The decor product is applied using, for example, a finger
pump (output 60 micron particle size) onto the surface of the three
spots until the test area is completely saturated. The decor
product is allowed to substantially dry to the touch, which is
typically overnight to assure complete drying, though shorter or
longer periods may be used depending on, for example, the relative
humidity and/or temperature of the ambient environment. After the
decor product is dry, the color of each of the three spots is
determined using the colorimeter as mentioned above. Subsequently,
the three spots are vacuumed using a wet/dry vacuum with a hose
attachment and brushless triangular tool, such as, for example, a
Shop-Vac.RTM. 1.times.1 portable wet/dry vacuum 12 V 60 Hz, 5.5 A,
model 2101A (manufactured by Shop-Vac, Inc.). The three spots are
vacuumed in one direction several times and repeated in the other
direction for a period of to ensure adequate removal. After
vacuuming, a calorimeter measurement is taken to determine the
change in color. Change in color (.DELTA.E) was determined using
the following formula: .DELTA.E= ((L.sub.1-L.sub.2).sup.2
+(a.sub.1-a.sub.2).sup.2 +(b.sub.1-b.sub.2).sup.2) where "L" refers
to "lightness" with values of 0=black to 100 =white; increasing "a"
values indicate more red color and decreasing "a" values indicate
more green color; and increasing "b" values indicate more yellow
color and decreasing "b" values indicate more blue color.
[0090] Illustratively, a substantially removable decor product has
a .DELTA.E value as compared to the initial reading of an untreated
carpet of less than about 20, or less than about 10, or less than
about 7.5, or in the range of about 0 to about 15.
[0091] Factors that may affect reversibility of the decor product
from a surface may include, for example, decor product specific
factors, application specific factors, and/or surface specific
factors. Examples of decor product specific factors may include the
type and/or concentration of emulsifier included in the decor
product formulation, which may affect adherent interactions between
the decor product and the surface to which the decor product is
applied thereto. Further, when the decor product composition
includes a particulate component, for example, a decor particle,
the reversibility of the decor product may be affected by the size
of the particle. Although not wishing to be bound by theory, it is
believed that smaller particle size may affect reversibility due to
possible greater penetration of the particles into recesses and
interstices of a non-smooth surface such as carpet, thus reducing
access to the smaller particles for the subsequent removal
process.
[0092] Application specific factors that may affect reversibility
include the extent of surface saturation when applying the decor
product to the surface and the method and/or device used to apply
the decor product to the surface. Surface saturation includes, for
example, the density of applied decor product on the surface.
Greater surface saturation may lead to an increased likelihood of
residual decor product remaining after removing the major portion
of decor product applied to the surface, and/or greater penetration
of the decor product into the recesses and interstices of the
surface thereby reducing accessibility of the removal process to
the decor products. Further, the method and/or application device
used to apply the decor product may affect reversibility.
Illustratively, the decor product may be applied to a surface in a
fashion to coat the surface with little to no surface penetration.
For example, an applicator that applies the decor product in a
mist, such as by a finger pump with a 60 micron or less spray
nozzle, may be used to coat the surface with little or no
penetration of the interstices of the surface. In this example,
decor product reversibility may be improved owing to the minimal
surface penetration of the decor product. However, if it is desired
to apply the decor product with an aerosol spray container, or
other such applicator that expels the decor product from the
container with a greater velocity than, for example, a hand pump,
deeper penetration of the surface may result, which may affect
removal of the decor product from the surface by, for example,
limiting or inhibiting access of the removal process to the decor
product.
[0093] Surface specific factors that may influence decor product
reversibility include, for example, surface structure and/or
texture, the electrostatic charge held by the surface, and/or
surface pretreatments affecting, for example, surface tension.
Surface structure factors such as fiber density, in the case of
carpets and the like, may influence decor product reversibility.
For example, dense carpet structures may be more likely to minimize
particle penetration as opposed to open structures such as, for
example, nylon shag carpets and older carpets with damaged braids.
Thus, less dense surfaces may influence decor product reversibility
by, for example, reducing the access of the decor product to the
removal process as compared to more dense surfaces.
[0094] Further, surface electrostatic charge and/or surface tension
may influence reversibility. Illustratively, a surface treatment
may be used to lower the electrostatic charge and/or surface
tension to improve the reversibility characteristics of the decor
products. Examples of surface treatments that may be used include
3M SCOTCHGUARD.TM. Carpet and Upholstery Protector (manufactured by
3M) and/or Advanced TEFLON.RTM. Carpet protector (manufactured by
E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company). Further, such pretreatments
may promote decor product coverage and/or dispersion on the surface
with smaller volumes of the decor product thus indirectly promoting
decor product reversibility through minimizing the risk of
oversaturation.
[0095] In some instances, the decor product may be formulated to
have a larger particle size to improve or enhance reversibility by
reducing the amount of particles based on size that can penetrate
the smaller interstices of the surface. Further, and not wishing to
be bound by theory, it is believed that smaller sized particles,
for example, particles less than about 5 to about 10 microns in
size, may be held relatively more tightly to the surface by an
electrostatic charge and/or surface tension as compared to larger
particles, for example, particles greater than about 20 microns in
size, making the smaller sized particles relatively more difficult
to remove from the surface as compared to larger sized particles.
Thus, in some embodiments, surface pretreatment, additional effort
and/or additional methods may be needed to achieve the same
reversibility characteristics for decor products formulated with
smaller particles as compared to decor products formulated with
larger particles.
[0096] Once a decor product of the present disclosure has been
applied to a surface and the user has decided to keep the decor
product on the surface, the decor product may be cured and/or
affixed by chemical curing and/or mechanical bonding to the surface
temporarily, permanently, and/or semi-permanently according to the
formulation of the decor product. Any curing or affixing technique
compatible with the decor product and the surface is contemplated
in the methods disclosed herein including, for example, the
application of energy and/or a chemical to the decor product.
Examples of curing or affixing techniques include, for example,
heat curing, steam curing, pressure curing, exposure to an
electromagnetic field, including for example, ultraviolet
radiation, radio frequency curing, a magnetic field, and the like,
ultrasound curing, induction heat curing, solar heat curing,
exothermic reaction heat curing, convective heat curing, and/or
radiant heat curing. Further, curing or affixation of the decor
product may be accomplished by exposure of the decor product to the
ambient environment.
[0097] The decor product in one embodiment may be affixed to a
surface using heat in a range from about -7.degree. C. to about
650.degree. C., or about 4.degree. C. to about 400.degree. C., or
at a temperature less than about 260.degree. C., or about
20.degree. C. to about 180.degree. C., or about 65.degree. C. to
about 120.degree. C., or higher and lower temperatures depending on
the surface in which the decor product is applied. Further, the
duration of the curing or affixing step is generally decor product-
and/or surface-specific, and illustratively, ranges from less than
1 second to about 15 minutes, or from about 15 minutes to about 1
hour, or from about 1 hour to about 4 hours, or from about 5 hours
to about 8 hours, or from about 8 to about 12 hours, or longer for
curing of the decor product.
[0098] Tools that may be used to cure and/or affix the decor
product to a surface include, for example, a hot iron, an enclosure
or frame containing a CALROD.TM. heating element suspended over the
surface being heated, an enclosure or frame with one or more
incandescent light bulbs, a heat gun, an enclosure or frame with a
heater and a blower to infuse hot air onto the substrate, an
enclosure or frame with an infrared heating element, an enclosure
or frame with an ultraviolet light source, a steam-making device, a
heated tool (for example, a household iron, an electric griddle, or
a hair dryer or objects similar in function but specifically
designed for the application), or a microwave emitting device or a
radio frequency emitting device. The devices contemplated herein to
be used for decor product affixation may incorporate heat sensors
and timers to facilitate the affixation process and further protect
the surface to which the decor product is being applied from damage
from overheating.
[0099] Additional ways to affix the decor product to a surface
include inductive heating of a decor product containing metal nano-
or microparticles, moisture curing systems, adding magnetic
enhancements to a deposited decor product, and treatment of
additives within the decor product to induce affixation. Further
ways to affix the decor product to a surface include those
disclosed in the U.S. patent and published patent application
provided in Table No. 1 above.
[0100] An illustration of affixation is shown in FIG. 3. Here, the
decor product has been applied to a surface 44, such as a nylon
carpet described herein and has substantially dried to the surface
to form substantially dry decor particles 42 attached thereto. An
affixation device 46 emitting energy 48, for example, an
electromagnetic field, is being passed over the applied decor
particles 42 in a direction A. Upon contact of the emitted energy
48, the decor particles begin to melt and flow and upon removal of
the emitted energy begin to cool and bond to the surface 44 to
become substantially affixed to the surface. A further example of
fixation is seen in FIG. 4, which is a scanning electron micrograph
showing a resultant decor particle film formed on individual fibers
of a carpet.
[0101] Protective coverings may also be applied to a deposited
decor product for the purpose of affixing the decor product and/or
to add to the resiliency of the decor product to wear. Useful
protective coverings include, for example, nanoparticle coating
compositions disclosed in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,872,444.
Further, fixatives useful in the present disclosure include those
used in artistry to fix and/or seal, for example, pastels, pencil,
charcoal, crayon, ink, gouache, or watercolor. Such fixatives
include those available under the trade names Blue Label Reworkable
FIXATIF.RTM. (Martin F. Webber Co.), GOLDEN.RTM. Archival Spray
Varnish (Golden Artist Colors Inc.), KRYLON.RTM. Workable Fixative
(Krylon Products Group, The Sherwin-Williams Company), and
LASCAUX.RTM. Fine Art Fixative (Lascaux Colours & Restauro,
Switzerland).
[0102] It is further contemplated that the surface to which a decor
product is to be applied and/or affixed thereto may be conditioned
prior to the application of the decor product. Examples of such
conditioning include, but are not limited to cleaning, vacuuming,
steam cleaning, bleaching, pH balancing, reducing the pH,
increasing the pH, sweeping, painting, scrubbing, wetting,
texturing, leveling, tilting, drying, heating, cooling, sanding,
buffing, coating, removing coatings therefrom, reducing the
electrostatic charge of the surface, and/or applying a surface
treatment, such as an upholstery and carpet protector including,
for example, 3M SCOTCHGAURD.TM. Carpet and Upholstery Protector
(manufactured by 3M) and/or Advanced TEFLON.RTM. Carpet protector
(manufactured by E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company).
[0103] Illustratively, the durability of a substantially affixed
decor product can be expressed in terms of a .DELTA.E value by
determining the ratio of the .DELTA.E measured between an untreated
surface and a decor product affixed on the surface and the .DELTA.E
measured between the untreated surface and the decor product
affixed and subsequently vacuumed as described herein and
subtracting this ratio from 100. Illustratively, the percentage
change in .DELTA.E for a substantially affixed decor product has a
range of about 0% to about 20% change in .DELTA.E.
[0104] A further embodiment of the present disclosure includes the
use of a design device that a user may use to control the
application of the decor product to a surface for the purpose of
creating, for example, a pattern on the surface to enhance the
aesthetic effect of the decor product. Possible decor product
patterns on surfaces contemplated in the present disclosure include
any and all images, patterns, shapes, and/or designs. Preselected
or random patterns may also be imparted to a surface using an
inherent dispersal pattern from a decor product applicator with or
without movement of the applicator over a selected surface during
application of the decor product. For example, by using a spray
applicator with a cone-shaped dispersal pattern, a user may choose
to apply discrete spots and/or circles having diameters that are
varied by varying the distance from which the applicator is held
from the surface during application of the decor product. Further,
a user may move the applicator during application of the decor
product over the surface in a predetermined or random pattern to
achieve a predetermined or random pattern on the surface. As such,
preselected patterns and/or random patterns may be imparted to a
surface with or without a design device.
[0105] Design devices contemplated in the present disclosure may
limit, direct, focus, concentrate, guide, dilute, and/or disperse
an amount of decor product applied to certain predetermined areas
of a selected surface. The design device may include, for example,
a stencil, a template, an array, a guide, a frame, a pattern
imparting device, a device imparting graphics in a random manner, a
manual device, an automatic device, a computer guided device, a
programmed device, and/or any combination thereof. The design
device contemplated for use herein including, for example, a
stencil, may be constructed totally or in part with a material such
as, for example, paper, wood, stone, plastic, cardboard, metal,
and/or any combination thereof.
[0106] Stencils or other design devices contemplated for use in the
present disclosure may be designed, constructed, shaped, and/or
reshaped, in a predetermined, ordered, disorganized, and/or random
manner by means of laser, knife, die cutting, and/or any other
appropriate means as determined by the nature of the stencil
material (for example, hardness or softness of the stencil
materials) to render a predetermined, ordered, disorganized, and/or
random shape that allows a predetermined, ordered, disorganized,
and/or random deposition of at least a visual design by introducing
a decor product on a surface. The stencils may further be laminated
and have additional layers applied thereto post-construction and/or
post-designing.
[0107] An exemplary stencil 60 useful in the present disclosure is
shown in FIG. 5 and includes a material containment layer 62 (for
example, for the absorption of liquids and/or entrapping of dry
materials and/or solids) that includes a paper tissue, a synthetic
woven or non-woven material that may or may not be coated with an
absorbent hydrophilic material, and/or a solid and/or liquid
entrapping substance. The material containment layer may have a
thickness of about 0.01 mil to about 1000 mils, or about 0.1 mil to
about 500 mils, or about 0.5 mil to about 150 mils, or about 1.25
mils to about 50 mils, or about 2 mils to about 15 mils, or a
lesser or greater thicknesses depending on the application. The
stencil may also incorporate a liquid barrier layer 64 to protect a
selected surface from unintended colorant exposure that may
comprise a liquid barrier made of any hydrophobic material,
including a polyolefin such as polyethylene. The liquid barrier
layer 64 may also be comprised of a coating applied to one surface
of the absorbent material to hinder liquid transport through the
absorbent material. Such a coating may be polymeric in composition
such as an acrylic polymer. The liquid barrier may have a thickness
in the range of about 0.01 to about 1000 mils, or about 0.1 mil to
about 500 mils, or about 0.5 mil to about 150 mils, or about 1.25
mils to about 50 mils, or about 2 mils to about 15 mils, or lesser
or greater thicknesses depending on the application. An example of
a material containment layer and barrier layer combined together
useful in the present disclosure, includes the commercially
available GOTCHA COVERED.RTM. drop cloth by Kimberly-Clark Corp.
The stencil 60 further includes a first support layer 66 that helps
to secure the edges of one or more cutout portions 68 that provides
a passage through at least the material containment layer 62 and
the liquid barrier layer 64 of the stencil 60. In this embodiment,
the first support layer 66 comprises threads, but other materials
may be used, in addition to or in place of threads as described
below. Further, the stencil 60 includes a second support layer 70
that helps to secure the stencil 60 to a surface (not shown), such
as a carpet. The second support layer 70 may consist of adherent
materials including, for example, adherent mesh-like materials as
described below.
[0108] A cross-sectional view of the stencil 60 is shown in FIG. 6.
Here, the cutout portions 68 are shown through the material
containment layer 62, the liquid barrier layer 64, and the second
support layer 70. However, the second support layer 70 need not
have the cutout portion 68 pass therethrough to allow a decor
product to be deposited on a surface due to its mesh-like
structure.
[0109] In another embodiment, the material containment layer and
the barrier layer may be made of the same material. For example, a
dual purpose material (for example, a paper material) that has
densities that differ by layers. In this example, the top layer of
the dual purpose material corresponds to the material containment
layer and has a density that absorbs liquids and/or entraps dry
material and/or solids and the bottom layer corresponds to the
barrier layer and has a density that prevents passage of liquids
therethrough. Further, varying thicknesses may contribute to the
functionality of the dual purpose material previously described in
addition to or in lieu of varying material densities. Such a dual
purpose material may be advantageous over using multiple materials
to create a stencil envisioned in the current disclosure by
facilitating manufacture of the stencil.
[0110] Another stencil that may be used in the present disclosure
may also include a fibrous support layer that has securement and/or
attachment properties, such as tulle, scrim, VELCRO.RTM., VERSA
HOOK from Avery Dennison, and the like. Illustratively, when the
support layer is laid upon a surface, the support layer comes in
contact with the surface to which the stencil is to be releasably
secured in such a way as to adequately secure the stencil to the
surface to allow deposition of the decor product upon the surface
and render the intended result. The support layer may also comprise
other adherent mechanisms, properties, and/or devices such as,
adhesive strips, pressure-sensitive adhesive, and/or any standard
bonding mechanism known to those skilled in the art. An additional
support layer including, for example, a loose grid, web, or
mesh-like material including, for example, thread, is envisioned
that may be placed adjacent the barrier layer of the stencil. In
this embodiment, the cutout portion may extend through the material
containment layer, the barrier layer, and the support layer. An
exemplary stencil useful in the present disclosure in which the
support layer is a pressure-sensitive adhesive includes that
disclosed in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,779,443. The support
layer may be of sufficient area to minimize unintended exposure of
a surface, as well as function to maintain the structural integrity
of the stencil.
[0111] Stencils that may be used in this application may be
substantially resilient to decor product removing means and/or
affixation means. The stencil may be used to protect underlying
surfaces from the decor product removing means disclosed herein.
Further, stencils contemplated within the context of the present
disclosure when disposed upon a surface may protect portions of the
selected surface from at least one of application, removal, or
affixation of the decor product by means of at least one of the
material containment layer or the barrier layer. Further, a design
device may protect an area adjacent to the preselected pattern from
receipt of the decor product.
[0112] Stencils contemplated in the present disclosure may have
cutout portions and/or peripheral edges substantially shaped into a
desired pattern, shape, and/or design. Illustratively, as seen in
FIG. 7, a stencil 80 has star-shaped peripheral edge 82 and an
internal cutout 84 having a similar shape as the peripheral edge.
This exemplary stencil may be used, for example, when a decor
product is being applied to a large area of a surface such that the
stencil base 86 between the peripheral edge 82 and the internal
cutout 84 blocks application of the decor product to the surface to
leave a decor product-free pattern on the surface.
[0113] The stencil may also have one or more cut-out portions
and/or pre-cut punch-out portions that may be selectively removed
by a user. Reverse image stencils contemplated in one embodiment
may be used to impart a reverse visual image upon a surface by
first being placed upon the surface to which a decor product is
intended to be applied. In this embodiment, the peripheral edge of
the stencil is cut and/or constructed to impart a pattern, shape,
and/or design to a surface when a decor product is applied to the
stencil and underlying surface. It is envisioned, that the reverse
image stencil may or may not have a cutout portion therethrough.
After the placing of the stencil or stencils, the decor product is
applied to both the surface and the stencils. The stencil or
stencils function to protect the underlying surface in the shape of
the desired image resulting in a decor product-free area in the
shape of the desired image surrounded by a decor product covered
area outlining the desired shape. Further, conventional stencils
contemplated in the present disclosure may be used to impart a
visual image upon an intended surface by first being placed upon
the surface to which a decor product is intended to be applied,
after the placing of the stencil or stencils the decor product is
applied to both the surface and the stencils, and the stencil or
stencils function to protect the surface surrounding the shape of
the desired image resulting in a decor product covered area in the
shape of the desired image surrounded by a decor product-free area
outlining the desired shape.
[0114] Another illustrative stencil imparts an image to a surface
when used in conjunction with the decor product removal means, such
as, for example, a vacuum, after the decor product has been applied
to the surface. In this example, the decor product is first applied
to the surface and the stencil is placed on the surface where the
decor product had been applied. After the stencil has been applied
to the treated area, a user may apply a second decor product to the
treated area and stencil to impart multiple patterns of different
decor products a surface. This process may be repeated until a
desired affect is achieved. Alternatively, after applying the
stencil to the treated area, the decor product that remains exposed
within cutout portions of the stencil and/or in areas surrounding
the peripheral edges of the stencil may be removed by decor product
removing means disclosed herein. The removal of the decor product
results in images similar to those with the reverse image stencils
and/or the conventional stencils disclosed above.
[0115] One or more stencils may be used simultaneously to apply a
visual design to a surface. When desired, one or more stencils may
be used in combination with any number of other stencils
contemplated in the present disclosure and/or auxiliary devices
that aid in design formation and/or stencil communication. A
multiplicity of stencils intended to be used together to impart a
design or other graphic representation on a selected surface may be
coordinated with relation to one another and the room or volume of
choice by coordinating, aligning, interfacing, connecting, and/or
guiding systems that secure the stencils either together or apart
from each other or from predetermined or random positions within a
room or other volume either on the surface on which the decor is
intended to be applied or any other point in the room or other
volume. Examples of coordinating, aligning, interfacing,
connecting, and/or guiding means useful herein include reusable or
disposable pegs that anchor stencils and/or additional auxiliary
devices that aid in design formation and/or stencil communication
together via peg securement locations, color strips disposed along
a surface of the stencils, letters, symbols, notches, and/or other
indicia that guide assembly of the stencil organization. An example
of a stencil coordinating mechanism is illustrated in FIGS.
8-11.
[0116] FIG. 8 depicts a disposable and/or reusable peg 90 that can
be affixed to a surface to form an anchor point on the surface for
coordinating stencil placement on the surface. In this example, the
peg 90 has multiple layers of adhesive strips 92 to adhere the peg
to the surface, however, a single strip may be included or some
other adherent mechanism such as VELCRO.RTM. dots and/or other
adhesive agents known to those skilled in the art.
[0117] FIG. 9 shows a transparent layout tool 102 that may be
placed on a surface 104 to be decorated. The layout tool 102
includes one or more spacing portions 106, for example, an array,
sized to permit one or more pegs 90 to be inserted (as shown by
arrow B) into the spacing portion and attached to the surface 104.
The layout tool may also include a colored pattern that may serve
as a preview for a selected decor design that may be achieved using
a corresponding set of stencils. To determine placement of the
layout tool 102 on the surface 104 in order to, for example, center
the layout tool on the surface, the user may measure a distance
from a feature on the surface, for example, a floor vent, or may
measure a distance from a wall or other room feature to determine
desired placement of the layout tool.
[0118] By using of a plurality of pegs 90 along with the layout
tool 102, a user may construct an array 112 of pegs attached to the
surface 104 as is seen in FIG. 10. To coordinate one or more
stencils on the surface 104 using the coordinating mechanism of the
current embodiment, the user may place a stencil 122 or a layout
tool having a hollow peg 124 centered over a hole in the stencil
(not shown) on top of one of the pegs 90 adhered to the surface 104
(as shown by arrow C) to anchor the stencil on the surface.
Alternatively, the hole in the stencil 122 may serve to receive the
peg 90 and orient the stencil on the surface. It is also envisioned
that a stencil 122 may include more than one hole and/or hollow peg
124, for example, a hollow peg at each corner of a square stencil,
to securely position the stencil on the surface. Further, in a
similar fashion, additional layout tools 102 that include holes
and/or hollow pegs 124 may be positioned on the surface 104 in a
predictable and symmetrical manner by starting with a minimal
number of measurements for the first layout tool position. In this
way, an array of pegs 90 may be placed on a large surface using one
layout tool 102 to allow a large number of stencils to be placed on
the surface 104 to permit an entire surface to be decorated with at
one time.
[0119] Use of coordinating, interfacing, and/or guiding means may
allow the consumer to impart a decor product in predetermined or
random patterns, designs, images, lines, geometric shapes, discrete
images, and/or repetitive images and the like, in a visually
perceived organized manner or a visually perceived disorganized
and/or random manner.
[0120] Any and all images, patterns, shapes, and/or designs may be
imparted on a surface using the design devices of the present
disclosure. For example, images, patterns, shapes, and/or designs
contemplated in the present disclosure may be regular or
non-regular, linear or non-linear, and repeatable or non-repeatable
patterns, including, for example, ornamental, tracery, or geometric
forms, simplified primitive and symbolic images and patterns,
compositional multi-object landscapes, images depicting real or
imaginary stories or plots, images with text, art images, standard
and/or reproducible images, real or imaginary letters, real or
imaginary numbers, cartoons, real or imaginary typographical
symbols, illustrations, patterns, designs, indicia, and/or shapes,
and combinations thereof.
[0121] Further, images, patterns, shapes, and/or designs useful in
the present disclosure may be varied by palette, combination of
standard or random images, size, positioning on a surface and/or
customized by combination of multiple parameters, for example,
pictures, patterns, palette, size, positioning, among others. The
images, patterns, shapes, and/or designs useful in the present
disclosure may also be varied by coloring with reflective and/or
refractive elements, optical effects provided by an overcoat, the
use of optical properties of static or dynamic flat images, and/or
use of tactile properties imparted to a surface by additives and/or
by affixation of the decor product.
[0122] It is further contemplated that images, patterns, shapes,
and/or designs useful in the present disclosure may also be chosen
by the consumer based on like or dislike, visual evaluation by
comparing an image with a standard set of images, colors, and/or
templates. The images, patterns, shapes, and/or designs useful in
the present disclosure may also be chosen based on an interactive
digital library with changeable parameters for adjustment to
specific room or other volume environments, and may also be based
on computer modeling for a specific room or other volume.
[0123] Further still, the images, patterns, shapes, and/or designs
contemplated may be, for example, the result of freestyle design,
the creation of single color images using varied forms of stencils,
the creation of multiple color images using several stencils, the
creation of multiple color images using compound stencils where
with a sequential and possibly repeated manner one color is applied
to a surface and stencil, then a layer of stencil removed and a
protective layer added to protect the first color and/or a second
color is immediately applied creating a color mixture on the dual
exposed areas and a single color area on the single exposure areas,
transfer of prefabricated images from a carrier, and/or sequential
image fabrication from standard elements such as lines, dots,
and/or pixels.
[0124] Additional images, patterns, shapes, and/or designs
contemplated may be unique art work, single independent images, one
or more systems of connected, potentially interrelated images
coordinated with the immediate environment (with a room or objects
within or characteristic of a room), and/or a two way coordination
of decorative images on one or more surfaces and immediate
surroundings. Further, images, patterns, shapes, and/or designs
contemplated may serve purposes beyond visual ornamentation, such
as teaching, directing, and/or instructing, including prompts,
reminders, messages, alphabets, maps, equations, phrases, poems,
warnings, language tools, or indexing means (for example, bar
codes).
[0125] It is also contemplated that combining one or more decor
products with at least one stencil allows a user to create images
that may be monochromatic with constant or varied intensity and
with or without shadow effects. Further, images possible using the
present disclosure may also be polychromatic with constant or
varied intensity and with or without shadow effects, or may be two
or more color contrast images achieved via multiple patches of
colors and shapes. Polychromatic images may have mixed or
intermediate colors and may or may not provide complete and natural
palette. Any number of variations to the appearance of a treated
surface may be achieved using the compositions of the decor product
envisioned in this disclosure along with or more design
devices.
[0126] An example of using the decor product with a design device
is described hereafter. As seen in FIG. 12, a method of applying a
design to a soft surface such as a carpet is shown generally at
200. In one embodiment, the carpet is already been installed in a
room and may be substantially dry, although the method may be
undertaken on a wet or humid surface as well. To apply the design
to the carpet, according to one method of the present disclosure, a
user first selects one or more design devices at step 212.
[0127] In addition to selecting one or more design devices, a user
may select one or more decor products to be incorporated into the
design that may differ, for example, by color. One or more consumer
aids may be used to assist the user in making these selections. The
design mechanisms may include, for example, a user making a simple
decorating decision, such as determining an arrangement of design
devices and colors to sophisticated computer design aids, such as
CD-ROM training programs that teach color application or provide
creative suggestions. Additional consumer aid design mechanisms
include color analysis, matching, and blending, and may include the
use of colorimeters, color scanners, and/or software algorithms.
Further examples of consumer aids, are disclosed herein.
[0128] Once the user has selected one or more design devices, the
user then places the design device adjacent the carpet (step 214).
The one or more design devices may be placed in any arrangement on
the carpet and may cover a small portion of the surface, such as a
center, edge, or corner, or substantially the entire carpet, or any
amount therebetween.
[0129] After the one or more design devices have been placed in a
desired arrangement on the carpet, the user applies a decor product
to a cutout portion of the design device at step 216.
Alternatively, or in addition to, the decor product may be placed
on portions of the design device that directly contact (for
example, a non-cutout portion of the design device) the soft
surface. Upon contacting the surface, the user may allow the decor
product to substantially dry on the surface at step 218. After
application of the decor product the design device may be left in
place while the decor product dries or may be removed from the
surface immediately after application at step 220. If the used
decides not to keep the design on the surface, the user may
substantially remove the decor product from the surface as
described herein at step 222. Otherwise, if the user decides to
keep the design, the user may substantially affix the decor product
to the surface as described herein at step 224. Further, the design
device may be removed from the surface before or after the decor
product is removed from or affixed to the surface.
[0130] An example of a stencil 230 useful in the present disclosure
is shown in FIG. 13. The stencil 230 consists of a stencil base 232
and a cutout portion 234. The stencil base 232, including the
material containment layer (not shown), barrier layer (not shown),
and a support layer 236, is made out of any appropriate material
including, for example, paper, plastic, cardboard, cloth, synthetic
fabric, natural fabric, cellulose, and/or metal, or any other
desired material. The cutout portion 234 consists of any pattern,
shape, or design desired. A support layer 236, as is visible
through the cutout portion 234, is provided adjacent a bottom
surface of the stencil base 232. The stencil 230 is used to create
an image on a surface by applying the decor product to the cutout
portion 234 of the stencil, wherein upon removal of the stencil,
the design is left on the surface of the carpet. The decor product
can then be removed or affixed.
[0131] A bottom view of the stencil 230 is shown in FIG. 13A,
further depicting the support layer 236. The support layer 236
extends across a small portion of a bottom surface of the stencil
base 232, but may extend to and/or beyond edges of the stencil
base. The support layer 236 assists in securing the stencil 230 to
a soft surface, securing the edges of the stencil, keeping the
stencil flat, and securing and/or facilitating the transfer of a
decor product.
[0132] A cross section of a stencil useful in the present
disclosure and similar to the stencil 230 of FIGS. 13 and 13A is
shown at 240 in FIG. 14. The stencil 240 includes an absorbent top
layer 242, a liquid barrier layer 244, and cutout portions 246
representing a cutout portion of a design, such as the cutout
portion 234 (FIGS. 13 and 13A). In addition, the stencil 240 may be
disposed adjacent a carpet 248. The absorbent top layer 242
inhibits or prevents dripping and/or bleeding of a decor product
while on the carpet 248, as well as when the stencil 240 is removed
from the carpet, and may consist of, for example, paper tissue
and/or a synthetic non-woven material coated with an absorbent,
hydrophilic material. The liquid barrier layer 244 is disposed
adjacent the absorbent top layer 242 and inhibits or prevents the
decor product from seeping through to the carpet 248 and may
consist of any hydrophobic material, including, for example, a
polyolefin such as polyethylene.
[0133] A cross sectional view of the stencil 230 is shown in FIG.
15. The stencil 230 includes an absorbent top layer 252, a liquid
barrier layer 254, and cutout portions 234, and may be disposed
adjacent a carpet 259. The stencil 250 further includes a support
layer 236 that may consist of a woven and/or non-woven mesh
material, such as, for example, tulle, scrim, and/or cheesecloth
spanning the cutout portion and that allows the decor product to
substantially pass therethrough.
[0134] FIG. 16 illustrates an additional stencil that may be
provided, for example, in a kit, shown generally at 270. The
stencil 270 may be used at a border of a carpet and includes a
stencil base 272 and a cutout portion 274. The stencil 270 also
includes color strips 276 and 278 having a specific color thereon,
for the purpose of aligning the stencil 270 with one or more
additional stencils having corresponding and/or complementary color
strips.
[0135] A stencil 280 that may be used at a corner of a carpet is
shown in FIG. 17. The stencil 280 includes a stencil base 282 and a
cutout portion 284. The stencil 280 further includes color strips
286 and 288 and an arrow 290 used for aligning the stencil 280 with
internal surfaces of a corner of the carpet.
[0136] Two additional stencils are shown in FIG. 18 and FIG. 19. A
stencil 1000 of FIG. 18 may be used at a first end of a carpet and
includes a stencil base 1020, a cutout portion 1040, and a color
strip 1060. A stencil 1100 of FIG. 19 may be used at a second end
of a carpet and includes a stencil base 1120, a cutout portion
1140, and a color strip 1160.
[0137] FIGS. 20-22 illustrate an exemplary application of the
respective stencils 270, 280, 1000, 1100 of FIGS. 16-19 to a carpet
1260 according to a sample set of instructions that may be provided
in a kit along with the stencils. As shown in FIG. 20, a room 1200
is provided for illustrative purposes. The room 1200 includes a
first wall 1220, a second wall 1240, and the carpet 1260. Following
the instructions provided, the user is instructed to place the
corner stencil 280 of FIG. 17 into a corner formed by walls 1220
and 1240, wherein the arrow 290 is pointing to the corner.
[0138] The user is further instructed to place first and second
border stencils 270 of FIG. 16, adjacent the corner stencil 280 of
FIG. 17, as shown in FIG. 21. The color strip 276 of the first
border stencil 270 is placed on top of or adjacent the color strip
(not shown) of the corner stencil 280 having the same color
thereon. Likewise, the color strip 278 of the second border stencil
270 is placed on top of or adjacent the color strip (not shown) of
the corner stencil 280 having the same color thereon.
[0139] Further, and as shown in FIG. 22, the user is instructed to
place the first and second end stencils 1000 and 1100 of FIGS. 18
and 19, respectively, adjacent the first and second border stencils
270. The color strip 1060 of the first end stencil 1000 is placed
on top of the color strip (not shown) of the first border stencil
270 having the same color thereon. Likewise, the color strip 1160
of the second end stencil 1100 is placed on top of the color strip
(not shown) of the second border stencil 270 having the same color
thereon.
[0140] The user may then apply (for example, by spraying) the decor
product on the cutout portions of the stencils 270, 280, 1000,
1100. After applying the decor product, the user may remove the
stencils to view the design produced on the carpet by the remaining
decor product 1520. A sample design created by the remaining decor
product 1520 is shown generally at 1500 in FIG. 23.
[0141] In yet an alternative embodiment, a room 1600 is shown in
FIG. 24. Four walls 1620, 1640, 1660, and 1680 define outer
portions of a carpet 1700. A design device, such as a grid pattern
1720, may be used in conjunction with one or more design devices,
such as a stencil 1740. The grid pattern 1720 may be designed to
cover all or a portion of the carpet 1700. Once the grid pattern
1720 is placed adjacent the carpet 1700, one or more stencils, such
as the stencil 1740 having a cutout portion 1760 therethrough, may
be used to create a design. The stencil 1740 and the grid pattern
1720 may include color strips, such as the color strips illustrated
in FIGS. 16-19 to assist the user in arranging the design devices.
Alternatively, letters, symbols, notches, indicia and/or other
unique identifiers may be used to assist in arrangement of the
stencil 1740 with the grid pattern 1720.
[0142] In addition to creating discrete images and the like as
disclosed above, the present disclosure may be used as a resource
for large area interior design in a commercial and/or
non-commercial setting. In this capacity, the present disclosure
may be used, for example, to create a border on a surface that
would be monochromatic (solid, discrete design, random design) or
polychromatic (solid, discrete design, random design) or to create
a whole room change such as discrete shapes, images, design, random
shapes by applying a monochromatic solid or non-solid or a
polychromatic solid or non-solid decor product (full coverage) from
wall to wall or that would account for complex room peripheries,
such as fireplace stoops, door/entryways, jogs in walls, carpet to
non-carpet thresholds, sunken or raised portions in rooms, floor
vents, outlets, other built in items disruptive of surfaces in
general.
[0143] Still further, the present disclosure may be used for
creating a discrete image in a selected area of interest as
determined by the user such as, for example, a wall, a ceiling, a
doorway, an entryway, a walkway, a hallway, a stair, or a flight of
stairs, or at the top of a flight of stairs, or in front of or over
a hearth or fireplace.
[0144] The present disclosure also provides kits that contain one
or more components herein described, including, for example, a
design device and/or a decor product that may be substantially
removed from a surface prior to being affixed thereon. A set of
instructions may also be included in the kit instructing the user
how to apply the design to a soft surface such as a carpet. The kit
may further comprise one or more application devices for
transferring the decor product to the carpet and/or one or more
fixative devices for affixing the decor product to the surface. In
addition, the kit may include a protective covering for protecting
the decor product after it has been applied to the carpet,
especially while it is drying. The kit may further include an iron
screen that is used to provide a user with an indication of what
areas of the decor product have already been ironed or affixed.
[0145] As an example, the kit may be provided having one or more
stencils, for example, five stencils, a decor product, an
application device such as a sprayer, an affixing device such as a
heating device (for example, an iron or a radio frequency emitting
device), and/or a set of instructions. The kit may also include a
system to identify, choose, make, modify, and/or prepare the
surface on which the decor product is to be applied.
[0146] Numerous options for customization of the present disclosure
may be utilized with the assistance of one or more consumer aids.
Consumer aids contemplated in the present disclosure, which may be
provided in a kit, individually and/or in any suitable fashion,
include any and all design mechanisms and/or aids and devices that
enable the consumer to use the present disclosure including
instructions, color predicting aids, design templates showing the
look prior to and/or after decorating possibly using a software
algorithm to present a retrospective view of a surface treated with
the decor product, instructional videos, CD-ROMs, internet web
pages to select and predict designs, colors, and overall looks,
interactive computers terminals, in store displays, customer
service, advertising, training courses, recorded messages, text
messages, mailings, books, literature, lectures, training courses,
correspondence courses, and any combination thereof, as well as,
other communicating means. Through the aforementioned communicating
means, a user may be taught, for example, how to use a kit
including the present disclosure. Further, the user may be
instructed how to employ the disclosure for commercial applications
such as, for example, interior design applications.
[0147] Additional consumer aids include devices to be employed by
persons such as a user, an agent of the user, a trainer, a
displayer, a salesman, a teacher, or a technician to enable the
user to use the present disclosure such as color carpet chips, for
example, pieces of carpet with differing decor product formulations
of differing coverage affixed thereon to demonstrate how different
decor product formulations appear on different types and/or colors
of carpet. Further consumer aids include color templates, for
example, sheets of opaque or clear material of different colors
with different colors of decor product affixed thereon with
instructional ratios of the base colorants used to make each decor
product color to allow the user to make each decor product color
from the separate base colorants and other additives.
[0148] Illustratively, in FIG. 25 an exemplary consumer aid 2000 is
shown that enables a user to preview how a pattern will appear in a
certain color (or shade or tint or texture, and any other
variation) on a surface when the consumer aid is placed on the
surface. The consumer aid 2000 may enable the user to make or mix
the decor product and/or assist the user in selecting the color of
the decor product that would be an appropriate and/or aesthetically
pleasing color and/or contrast when compared to the base color of
the surface. The consumer aid 2000, in this case, is included in a
kit having two decor products of differing colors, such as dark
gray and white. Further, the consumer aid 2000 includes
instructions on how to achieve each variation in pattern displayed
on the consumer aid, in this case varying shades of gray. The
consumer aid 2000 of the current embodiment includes a transparent
sheet 2002 upon which is disposed a pattern 2004 that is repeated a
number of times, such as six times. Each repeat has a different
shade of gray becoming more white progressing from upper left to
lower right, as is seen by comparing, for example, pattern 2004 and
pattern 2006. Beneath each pattern repeat is a ratio printed on the
transparent sheet 2002 that indicates a mixture percentage, such as
is seen at 2008 where a mixture of 100 percent dark gray and 0
percent white is indicated or as is seen at 2010 where a mixture of
20 percent dark gray and 80 percent white is indicated. In this
way, a user may achieve each of the shades of gray associated with
each pattern repeat by mixing the dark gray and white decor
products included in the kit at the percentages indicated. Further,
any color may be created in this manner by mixing appropriate
amounts of differing colored decor products. Further, any sort of
instructions is contemplated to instruct a user to achieve a given
color and/or pattern appearance. Further, the kit may also include
a combined mixing and application device that contains the decor
product(s) and corresponds with the consumer aid, such that the
percentages given the example above for mixing dark gray and white
decor products may indicate how to adjust the settings on the
mixing and application device to achieve the indicated color or
shade or texture shown on the consumer aid 2000.
[0149] Additional consumer aids include carpet templates, stencil
templates, for example, templates illustrative of different images
and image characteristics that are possible or desirable to a user,
as well as how different stencils can be used together, positional
templates, for example, templates that indicate to a user how a
decor product image can be incorporated on a surface in a given
space, tester samples (similar to the tester samples supplied by
Benjamin Moore & Co.), trial periods, color matching sheets,
for example, similar to color matching sheets used in make-up
matching to skin tones, used to match colors, or to predict color
look and contrast, color blendirig sheets, for example, similar to
color matching sheets that further allow a user to preview combined
colors on a surface, color charts, color graphs, color analysis
devices, colorimeters, color scanners, software algorithms for
color assessment and formulating colors, and other means for
determining proportions and types of decor product to be used for a
specified or unspecified surface in a room, hallway, house,
building, or other area.
[0150] In addition, by mixing differently colored decor products,
any number of additional colors may be formed. As an example, a
user may purchase one or more pre-formulated decor products
including colored toners and/or other decor particles or may mix
various colored toners to achieve any desired color. Design
mechanisms such as color charts, color analysis devices, or other
ways for determining the proportion and type of colored toner to
achieve a particular color can also be provided to a user.
Additionally, a user may directly apply the toners to the surface
or the toners may be incorporated into the decor product such as by
mixing the toner with water or another solvent, or a predetermined
formulation of more than one part to make a liquid suspension or
emulsion, for example, and then applied to the surface.
[0151] Additional consumer aids include devices to be employed by
the user to help the user identify, (for example, tools and/or kits
used to identify the type or composition of carpet fibers to help
direct the user toward a particular decor product formulation),
choose, make, modify (for example, kits or compounds that can be
included in kits to alter the physical appearance of a surface,
such as an embossing compound), combine, and prepare surfaces on
which a decor product may be applied and/or affixed. These consumer
aids enable the user to choose the correct decor product
formulation for a given surface to have a given intended effect,
for example, a textured look on a soft surface or a smooth look on
a hard surface, or any combination thereof.
[0152] Further, the consumer aids will help users in choosing,
making, modifying, combining and/or preparing design devices, such
as a stencil, to render images, patterns, shapes, and/or designs to
be imparted to the surface when applying the stencil and/or a decor
product to the intended surface. Still further, the consumer aids
contemplated help or assist the user in choosing, using, making,
modifying, and/or preparing decor product formulations that may be
ready-to-use or require preparation prior to application to a
surface.
[0153] In addition to selecting one or more design devices, a user
may select one or more colors to incorporate into the design. One
or more design mechanisms may be used to assist the user in making
these selections. The design mechanisms may include, for example, a
user making a simple decorating decision, such as determining an
arrangement of design devices and colors to sophisticated computer
design aids, such as CD-ROM training programs that teach color
application or provide creative suggestions. Additional design
mechanisms include color analysis, matching, and blending, and may
include the use of calorimeters, color scanners, and/or software
algorithms.
[0154] Additional consumer aids may take the form of store displays
and/or presentations of the disclosure, including, for example, the
decor product packaged in liquid form or powder form to be
suspended in liquid immediately before use, and/or one or multiple
decor product colors and decor product additives to be mixed before
use, and/or a kit comprising elements of the present disclosure
such as multiple or single colors, one or more designs,
instructions, an application device, a fixative device, a
protective covering, and/or an iron screen or other indicator, such
as, for example, a color changing additive, to differentiate
between fixed and unfixed areas of the applied decor product.
[0155] Illustrative chemistries useful in a decor product
composition includes a low temperature cure epoxy decor particle, a
low temperature cure epoxy-polyester hybrid decor particle, and/or
a low temperature cure polyester-triglycidyl isocyanurate (TGIC)
decor particle. Typical ranges of constituents of the
aforementioned decor particles contemplated in the present
disclosure include an amount of binder, which includes at least a
polymer or resin and one or more curatives, based on weight
percentages of about 50% or greater of the total weight of the
decor particle. Further, other components of the decor particle,
including, for example, additives, fillers, pigments, degassing
agents, flow additives, and the like, may be included in amounts
ranging from about 50% or less of the total weight of the decor
particle. Such ranges may be adjusted to attain the desired
characteristics of the decor particle as appropriate as is known to
those skilled in the art. Further, to assure full stoichiometry of
reactions between polymers and/or resins and curatives, amounts of
polymers and/or resins and curatives used may range from about 50%
to about 150% based on relative equivalent weights of the compounds
and/or as recommended by the manufacturer.
[0156] A low temperature cure epoxy decor particle may include a
binder system that has an epoxy resin and a curative. An example of
an epoxy resin is a bisphenol A resin having the following general
chemical structure of Formula I: ##STR1## wherin n is an integer
from 2 to 20.
[0157] Bisphenol A epoxy resins useful in a decor particle include
those resins having an epoxy equivalent weight of about 650 to
about 900, or about 700 to about 750; a Tg of about 45.degree. C.
to about 75.degree. C., or about 55.degree. C.; and/or an ICI cone
and plate viscosity of about 5 poise to about 100 poise, or about
35 poise at 150.degree. C.
[0158] Another example of an epoxy resin useful in a decor product
formulation is a novolac epoxy resin. Examples of novolac epoxy
resins include the following general chemical structures of
Formulas II and III: ##STR2## wherein n is an integer from 1 to
4.
[0159] The glass transition temperatures and viscosities of the
novolac epoxy resins are similar to those provided above for the
bisphenol A epoxy resins. A curative agent useful in a binder
system that has an epoxy resin includes, for example, a phenolic
curative. An example of a phenolic curative agent is Huntsman
Hardener XB 3086 supplied by Huntsman Advanced Materials
(Switzerland) GmbH, which is compatible with bisphenol-A-based
epoxy resins and novolac-epoxy-based resins. The Huntsman Hardener
XB 3086 contains phenol, 4,4'-(1-methylethylidene)bis-, polymer
with
2,2'-[(1-methylethylidene)bis(4,1-phenyleneoxymethylene)]bis[oxirane]
(commonly described as a polymer of epoxy resin and bisphenol A), a
Huntsman Advanced Materials confidential accelerator, and Phenol,
4,4'-(1-methylethylidene)bis- (commonly known as Bisphenol A). The
Huntsman Hardener XB 3086 has the following properties: amine value
of 0.83-0.93 eq/kg, recommended combining weight of about 135, and
a softening point of 84.degree. C. to 94.degree. C.
[0160] Stoichiometric ratios of the epoxy resin and the curative
are calculated based on the combining weights, or equivalent
values, of resins and curatives. Values of the combining weights
may be determined by chemical structure (for example, average
molecular weight divided by the number of reactive groups, amine
values, acid or hydroxyl numbers, etc.) or empirically based on
laboratory experiments. For example, using a lower molecular type 3
bisphenol A epoxy resin with an epoxy equivalent weight (EEW) of
700 and Huntsman Hardener XB 3086 with a manufacturer recommended
equivalent weight of 135, the calculation for a full (100%)
stoichiometry is shown below in Table No. 2. TABLE-US-00002 TABLE
NO. 2 Full Stoichiometry of an Epoxy Resin and Curative Agent Decor
Particle. Approx. Constituent Epoxy Equivalent Weight Percent Type
3 Bisphenol A Epoxy 700 84.2% Resin Huntsman Hardener XB 3086 135
15.2% Total 835 100.0%
In other embodiments, the epoxy resin and curative agent ratio may
range from, for example, about 84% to about 85% epoxy resin to
about 16% to about 15% curative agent. To lower the cure
temperature of an epoxy decor particle, accelerants and/or
catalysts such as, for example, a phenolic curative may be
incorporated into the composition. An illustrative phenolic
curative has a combining weight of about 100 to about 500. Other
accelerants and/or catalysts compatible with epoxy resins known to
those skilled in the art may also be used. An illustrative cure
condition for an epoxy-polyester hybrid decor particle includes a
bake time of about 15 minutes at about 150.degree. C., or less.
[0161] The low temperature cure epoxy decor particle composition
may include any desired colorant and/or additive. Illustratively, a
low temperature cure epoxy decor particle composition may include
the following constituents as shown below in Table No. 3.
TABLE-US-00003 TABLE NO. 3 Low Temperature Cure Epoxy Decor
Particle Compositions. Approx. Constituent Weight % Bisphenol A
Epoxy 48-58 Bisphenol A Curative 9-11 Flow Additive 0.2-3 Degassing
Agent 0.2-5 Colorant 0.3-40 Filler 10-30
[0162] Another illustrative chemistry useful in a decor product is
a low temperature cure epoxy-polyester hybrid decor particle that
has a binder system having a low temperature cure epoxy and a
polyester resin. Illustrative epoxy resins include the bisphenol A
epoxy resins or Novolac epoxy resins described above. An
illustrative polyester resin includes an acid terminated saturated
polyester resin. The polyester resin may have an acid number of
between about 75 and about 85. Example includes acid terminated
saturated polyesters used as a co-reactant in epoxy-polyester
hybrid coating powder formulations. The polyester may be
synthesized from neopentyl glycol, terephthalic acid, trimellitic
anhydride, and other types of glycols and dibasic organic acids.
The branched polyesters may have resin functionalities of about 2
to about 4, or of about 2.5 to about 3.5 (indicating, that about
2.5 to about 3.5 carboxyl groups per polyester molecule). Resin
acid numbers may range from about 35 to about 90 with hydroxyl
numbers of about 5 to about 10 (residual hydroxyl). Acid
terminated, saturated polyester resins suitable for combination
with epoxy resins may have an acid number of about 70 to about 90,
or about 80; a calculated combining weight (combining weight equals
56,100/acid number) of about 625 to about 800, or about 700; a
glass transition temperature about 45.degree. C. to about
60.degree. C., or about 55.degree. C.; and/or an ICI cone and plate
viscosity of about 15 poise to about 50 poise, or about 25 poise,
at about 200.degree. C.
[0163] To lower the cure temperature of an epoxy-polyester hybrid
decor particle, an accelerant and/or catalyst such as, for example,
a stannous-organic and/or imidazole-type compound may be
incorporated into the composition. Other accelerants and/or
catalysts known to those skilled in the art may also be used. An
illustrative cure condition for an epoxy-polyester hybrid decor
particle includes a bake time of about 15 minutes at about
150.degree. C., or less.
[0164] Stoichiometric ratios for an epoxy-polyester hybrid decor
particle may be calculated based on the combining weights of resins
and curatives. However, as known in the art, molecular structure
and chemical functionalities may differ and fluctuate for organic
polymer products, making the depiction and calculation of chemical
reactions more difficult and ambiguous than for inorganic chemical
reactions. Illustratively, stoichiometric ratios may be calculated
based on combining weights (also referred to as equivalent values)
of epoxy and acid-terminated polyester resins. The values of the
combining weights may be determined by chemical structure (for
example, average molecular weight divided by the number of reactive
groups, amine values, acid numbers, etc.). For example, a lower
molecular weight type 3 bisphenol A epoxy resin with an epoxy
equivalent weight of 700 and an acid terminated saturated polyester
resin with an average number of 80 (combining weight of polyester
equals 56,100 divided by 80, which equals approximately 700),
provides a full (100%) stoichiometric calculation as shown below in
Table No. 4. TABLE-US-00004 TABLE NO. 4 Full Stoichiometry of an
Epoxy-Polyester Hybrid Decor Particle. Approx. Constituent Epoxy
Equivalent Weight Percent Type 3 Bisphenol A Epoxy Resin 700 50%
Acid Terminated Polyester 700 50% Total 1400 100.0%
[0165] The low temperature epoxy-polyester hybrid decor particle
composition may include any desired colorant and/or additive.
Illustratively, a low temperature cure epoxy-polyester hybrid decor
particle composition may include the following constituents as
shown below in Table No. 5. TABLE-US-00005 TABLE NO. 5 Low
Temperature Cure Epoxy-Polyester Hybrid Decor Particle
Compositions. Approx. Constituent Weight % Bisphenol A Epoxy 29-34
SP3320 Hybrid Polyester 29-34 Flow Additive 0.2-3 2-PI (Catalyst)
0.2-0.8 Degassing Agent 0.2-5 Colorant 0.3-40 Filler 10-30
[0166] Another illustrative chemistry useful in a decor product is
a low temperature cure polyester-triglycidyl isocyanurate (TGIC)
decor particle. Illustratively, a polyester includes an acid
terminated saturated polyesters synthesized using, for example, a
monomer such as trimethylolpropane, terephthalic acid, neopentyl
glycol, adipic acid, hexanediol, 1,4-cyclohexyldimethanol, and
isophthalic acid, and pentanediol. The polyesters in one embodiment
have resin functionalities of about 2.05 to about 2.2 (that is,
about 2.05 to about 2.2 carboxyl groups per polyester molecule).
The resin acid numbers may range from about 20 to about 60, or
range on average from about 28 to about 38. The hydroxyl numbers
may range from about 5 to about 10 (residual hydroxyl). TGIC is a
trifunctional epoxide resin that is used as a hardener in
polyester-based powder formulations. The combining weight of TGIC
is 106. Illustratively, an acid terminated, saturated polyester
resins suitable for combination with TGIC in a low temperature cure
polyester-TGIC decor particle possess, for example, an acid number
about 30 to about 40, or about 35; a calculated combining weight
(combining weight equals 56,100 divided by acid number) of about
1,400 to about 1,870, or about 1,600; a glass transition
temperature about 45.degree. C. to about 70.degree. C., or about
55.degree. C.; and/or an ICI cone and plate viscosity of about 15
poise to about 50 poise, or about 25 poise, at 200.degree. C.
[0167] To lower the cure temperature of a polyester-TGIC decor
particle, an accelerant and/or catalyst such as, for example,
triphenylethyl phosphonium bromide and/or imidazole-type compounds
may be incorporated into the composition. Other accelerants and/or
catalysts known to those skilled in the art may also be used. For
example, a glycidyl curative chemistries such as aliphatic,
cycloaliphatic, aromatic, and methacrylate based glycidyl compounds
with equivalent weights of about 50 to about 1,000 and melt
temperatures below about 125.degree. C. may by utilized in the low
temperature cure polyester-TGIC decor particle. An illustrative
cure condition for a polyester-TGIC decor particle includes a bake
time of about 15 minutes at about 135.degree. C.
[0168] As mentioned above, molecular structures and chemical
functionalities may differ and fluctuate for organic polymer
products. Illustratively, stoichiometric ratios are calculated
based on the combining weights of epoxy and acid terminated
polyester resins. Values of the combining weights may be determined
from the chemical structure of the respective compounds. For
example, an acid terminated saturated polyester with an average
acid number of 35 (combining weight of polyester equals 56,100
divided by 35, which equals approximately 1,600) combined with
TGIC, provides a full (100%) stoichiometric calculation as shown
below in Table No. 6. TABLE-US-00006 TABLE NO. 6 Full Stoichiometry
of a Polyester-TGIC Decor Particle. Approx. Constituent Epoxy
Equivalent Weight Percent Acid Terminated Polyester 1600 93.8% TGIC
106 6.2% Total 1706 100.0%
[0169] Due to the large molecular size of the polyester resin and
the small molecular size and spherical shape of TGIC, a about 10%
to about 15% stoichiometric surplus of TGIC may be utilized to
achieve, for example, a polyester resin/TGIC ratio of 93/7.
[0170] The low temperature polyester-TGIC decor particle
composition may include any desired colorant and/or additive.
Illustratively, a low temperature polyester-TGIC decor particle
composition may include the following constituents as shown below
in Table No. 7. TABLE-US-00007 TABLE NO. 7 Low Temperature Cure
Polyester-TGIC Decor Particle Compositions. Approx. Constituents
Weight % RUCOTE .RTM. 921 Polyester 54-63 TGIC 4-5 Flow Additive
0.2-3 Degassing Agent 0.2-5 Colorant 0.3-40 Filler 10-30
[0171] An alternative carboxyl polyester resin curative to TGIC
includes, for example, PRIMID.RTM. (EMS-Primid, a unit of
EMS-Chemie AG). PRIMID.RTM. is a beta-hydroxyl alkyl amide
curative. However, PRIMID.RTM. may require longer cure times than a
TGIC-based chemistry, as well as a PRIMID.RTM. based coating may
appear slightly more orange than a TGIC-based coating. Pinholes and
blistering may also be an issue with the use of a PRIMID.RTM. based
decor particle where a coating thickness exceeds 4.0 mils.
[0172] As mentioned above, a decor product, which includes a decor
particle, may include any desired colorant and/or additive.
Illustratively, the decor particle composition may include, for
example, a flow additive, a degassing agent, a surfactant or
wetting agent, an antioxidant, a heat stabilizer, a ultraviolet
light absorber, a wax, a silicone additive, a catalyst, a texturing
agent, an electrical charge control agent, an electrical
conductivity agent, a processing aid, a filler, and combinations
thereof.
[0173] Flow additives may be utilized in formulating a decor
particle composition to, for example, reduce or prevent cratering
of a finished cured product and/or to improve flow and leveling.
Illustratively, the flow additives may be low molecular acrylic
polymers, either in liquid form (for example, a liquid containing
about 100% active substance), or in solid form (for example, a
solid with about 65% active substance). Examples of flow additives
include Acronal 4F (about 100% active, BASF), Byk 363 P (about 65%
active, BYK-Chemie), RESIFLOW.RTM. P-67 (manufactured by Estron
Chemical), RESIFLOW.RTM. PF-67 (about 65% active, Estron Chemical),
MODAFLOW.TM. 3 (about 65% active, Monsanto), and POWDERMATE.TM. 486
CFL (about 65% active, Troy Corp.). Illustratively, a flow additive
may be added to a decor particle composition in a range of between
about 0.3% to about 1% of 100% active flow additive per total
formula weight of the decor particle.
[0174] A degassing agent may be added to a decor particle
composition to, for example, aid in the evaporation of volatile
products within the composition during the heating and/or curing
cycle to reduce and/or prevent pinholing (volatile bubbles being
trapped at the surface boundary between the finish and the air).
Some degassing agents, such as Benzoin (Velsicol Chemical Corp.),
may solvate the resin/curative mix during the liquid phase of the
cure process. Other degassing agents are surfactant-like and other
are wax-like and affect the surface tension of the film surface to
promote degassing. Illustratively, a decor particle composition may
contain from about 0.2% to about 2% of active degassing agent per
total formula weight of the decor particle. For example, a decor
particle that is curable between about 135.degree. C. and about
149.degree. C. (for example a polyester-PRIMID.RTM. chemistry), may
contain a combination of about 1% to about 1.8% OXYMELT.RTM. A-2 or
A-4 (Estron Chemical) and about 0.2% Benzoin per total formula
weight of the decor particle.
[0175] A surfactant or wetting agent that may be used in a decor
product or decor particle composition may, for example, promote
colorant and/or filler wetting, and/or improve the flow and/or
leveling of a finished cured product. In addition, a surfactant or
wetting agent may promote substrate wet-out during the cure
reaction, which may improve adhesion and/or corrosion resistance.
The addition of surfactants may also increase gloss and
distinctness of image of the cured film as well. Illustratively,
surfactant levels can range from 0.1 % to about 0.5% of active
substance per total formula weight of the decor particle. Examples
of surfactants or wetting agents include cationic, anionic
functional organic compounds, silane, and polysiloxane, including,
for example, NUOSPERSE.TM. 657 (manufactured by Elementis
Specialties) and SURFYNOL.TM. 104 S (Air Products and Chemicals,
Inc.).
[0176] An antioxidant or heat stabilizer may be used in a decor
particle composition to, for example, inhibit or prevent heat
induced yellowing during the curing and/or heating cycle.
Illustratively, an antioxidant or heat stabilizer may be used in a
white or relatively light colored decor particle composition in an
amount from about 0.2% to about 0.5% of active substance per total
formula weight of the decor particle. More or less antioxidant or
heat stabilizer may be used with other colored decor particles.
Examples of antioxidants include Irganox 1076 (Ciba Specialty
Chemicals Corp.) and Irganox B-225 Ciba Specialty Chemicals Corp.).
An example of a heat stabilizer is Sandostab P-EPQ (Clariant).
[0177] An ultraviolet light absorber can be added to a decor
particle composition to, for example, improve ultraviolet
resistance (for example, weatherability) of a cured finished
product. Used in combination with antioxidants and/or heat
stabilizers, the performance of ultraviolet absorbers can be
further enhanced.
[0178] A wax may be added to a decor particle composition to, for
example, control the gloss and/or flow of a cured decor product. A
wax may also be used to add texturing to a cured decor product.
Additionally, some wax additives may improve mar and scratch
resistance of a cured decor product. Illustratively, a wax from a
natural product, such as Carnauba wax, beeswax, hydrocarbon
compounds, halogenated hydrocarbons, and PTFE comprise a large
percentage of waxes and may be used in the decor product and/or
decor particle composition. Examples of wax additives include
DT3329-1 (Ciba Geigy), Castor Wax, Powder Tex 61 (Shamrock
Technologies, Inc.), Lanco.RTM. TF-1778 (available from Noveon
Inc.), and Lanco.RTM. PP-1362D (available from Noveon, Inc.).
[0179] A silicone additive may also be added to a decor particle
composition to improve, for example, mar and scratch resistance of
a cured decor product. Although not wishing to be held by theory,
it is believed that the silicone additives reduce the coefficient
of friction that may affect, for example, intercoat adhesion in a
two-coat system. Examples of silicone additives include
polysiloxane and silicone oil.
[0180] Catalysts such as 2-Propyl imidazole may be added to a decor
particle composition to, for example, accelerate cure speed, lower
cure temperature, and/or improve physical and/or chemical
properties of the cured product.
[0181] Texturing agents may be added to a decor particle
composition to, for example, alter and/or manipulate the viscosity
of the composition.
[0182] Electrical charge control additives may be added to a decor
particle composition to, for example, control transfer efficiency.
Examples include TINUVIN.RTM. 144 (Ciba Specialty Chemicals),
barium titanate, and quaternary ammonium salts.
[0183] Electrical conductivity additives may be added to a decor
particle composition to, for example, dissipate electrical charge
in the composition and/or finished product. The electrical
conductivity additives may be, for example, filler-like,
pigment-like, or wax-like in nature.
[0184] Processing aids may be added to a decor particle composition
to, for example, facilitate processing of the composition.
Processing aids are well known to those skilled in the art.
[0185] Colorants may be added to a decor particle composition to,
for example, obtain a desired color. Illustrative pigments include
organic and inorganic pigments, including, for example, titanium
dioxide, iron oxide red, iron oxide yellow, iron oxide black, heat
stabilized iron oxide, calcinated mixed metal oxide, diarylide,
condensated disazo, and phthalo blue. Illustrative colorants and
amounts that may be used individually or in combination in the
decor product and/or decor particle composition are provided below
in Table No. 8. TABLE-US-00008 TABLE NO. 8 Pigments. Approx.
Colorant Weight % Titanium Dioxide 1-40 Iron Oxide Yellow (C.I.
Yellow 14) 2-20 HR-70 Yellow (Organic Pigment) 1.5-2 274-0033
(Organic Pigment) 0.3-2 RT-172-D (Organic Pigment) 0.5-5 F5RK-A
(Organic Pigment) 0.5-3.0 15-1101 AR (Organic Pigment) 0.5-5 Iron
Oxide Black (C.I. Black 11) 0.5-2 Iron Oxide Red (C.I. Red 101)
1.5-20 Ultra Marine Blue (C.I. Blue 29) 15-25
Numerous other organic and inorganic colorants known to those
skilled in the art may be utilized in the compositions herein
described.
[0186] A filler may also be added to a decor particle composition.
Two illustrative fillers include calcium carbonate and barium
sulfate (CaCO.sub.3 and BaSO.sub.4, respectively, both manufactured
by Fisher Chemicals). The calcium carbonate fillers added to the
decor product and/or decor particle compositions may, for example,
reduce gloss, as well as the flow of an applied finish at higher
concentrations. Wollastonite-type fillers may also be utilized as
fillers in the decor product and/or decor particle compositions.
Talcum, clay, dolomite, and magnesium-aluminum-silicate in powder
form, usually ground to 1-10 microns average particle size, or
micron sized glass beads, may also be used as fillers to obtain
specific properties, such as, for example, corrosion resistance,
gloss control, and/or film texture.
[0187] Illustratively, a decor product is applied to a surface to
achieve a film thickness of about 0.004 mils to about 2.2 mils
(about 0.01 microns to about 56 microns) upon curing of the decor
product.
[0188] A decor particle formulation such as those embracing low
temperature cure epoxy chemistry, low temperature cure
epoxy-polyester hybrid chemistry, low temperature cure
polyester-TGIC chemistry may be prepared in accordance with the
following general processing procedure.
[0189] Formulation constituents are dry mixed either through
low-intensity tumble-mixing or through high-intensity dry-blending
performed in a mixer containing a vertical or horizontal mixing
shaft with blades rotating at 50-1,000 rpm. Formulations are
low-intensity tumble-mixed for about 5 to about 20 minutes, for
example, or high-intensity dry-mixed for about 1 to about 5
minutes, for example, depending on batch size. Mixing serves to
homogenize the active chemical ingredients and to disperse inert
ingredients for enhanced color consistency and to avoid protrusions
in applied films. Batch sizes may range from quarts to kiloliters
in size. After dry-blending, the temperature of the mixture is
maintained at or below about 40.degree. C. to prevent lumping or
meltdown.
[0190] The mixtures are extruded within minutes to hours after
dry-mixing. Single screw extruders with reciprocating screw shaft
movements, also called co-kneaders, and twin screw extruders with
co-rotating screw shafts are suitable extruders, as well as
planetary extruders, counter-rotating twin screw extruders, or
single screw extruders. Illustrative extruder size ranges from
table-top laboratory models with 10-30 mm screw diameters and 1-5
kg per hour theoretical outputs to production models with 30 to
over 300 mm screw diameters and 100 kg to over 2,000 kg per hour
theoretical outputs.
[0191] The extruders for processing may be heated via water, oil,
or electrical heat jacket located on the outside of the extruder
barrels. Extruder barrel processing temperatures may range from
about 70.degree. C. to about 125.degree. C., though temperatures
outside this range may be used to achieve desired properties in
some applications. Some extruder barrel heaters utilized in the
powder processing may be segmented, in which case, the premix
intake zone of the extruder may be run cold or at a minimal heat of
about 40.degree. C. to about 50.degree. C. Depending on extruder
and screw design, a barrel heat of about 100.degree.
C..+-.15.degree. C. is adequate for processing highly-reactive, low
temperature cure powder coating formulas. The screws may have a
helical section in the premix intake area and "paddle" sections for
dispersing and melt-mixing the extrudate. Residence time of the
extrudate within the extruder typically does not exceed about 60
seconds. The production extruders used for processing the powder
coatings are run between about 50 and about 750 rpm screw speed.
Screw speeds and extruder barrel temperatures are selected to
obtain between about 50% to about 90% torque. Extrudate
temperatures range from about 100.degree. C. to about 125.degree.
C. as a result of extruder barrel heat and frictional heat from the
rotating screws. The extrudate is immediately cooled after exiting
the extruder to solidify the material for further processing and to
arrest chemical reactions. The extrudate is gravity-fed into
counter-rotating chill rolls set about 1.5 to about 3 mm apart. The
resulting extrudate sheet is transported on a cooling belt to a
flaker or crusher unit where the sheet is broken into flakes under
about 1 inch square in size. Cooling belt temperatures from about
5.degree. C. to about 35.degree. C. are maintained during
processing. The resulting flakes are milled and characterized using
air classifying mills (ACM), cyclones, and sieves, to determine
particle size distributions and mean particle sizes.
Illustratively, a particle size distribution for a decor particle
ranges from about 90% by volume or more of the particles having a
size less than about 100 microns, or less than about 25 microns, or
less than about 10 microns, or from about 0.1 to about 50 microns,
or from about 1 to about 20 microns, or from about 3 to about 10
microns, or from greater than about 750 nm to about 100 microns, or
larger or smaller particle sizes depending on the desired
application. All equipment is purged after processing different
formulas or colors to avoid chemical or color
cross-contamination.
[0192] An emulsified decor product may be prepared in accordance
with the following general processing procedure. In a one-gallon
glass container, initially an emulsifier is added to a powder, such
as a NATURA.TM. toner and/or a decor particle and mixed to
thoroughly coat the powder with the emulsifier. Water is then added
to the powder and emulsifier mixture and is blended using an
IKA-Werke Eurostar power basic mixer at a speed of about 750 rpm
for about 4 hours. Additional additives may be added if so desired
at any point during preparation of the decor product. After the 4
hour blending period, the mixture is further mixed by continuously
mixing at room temperature on an magnetic stir/heat plate (Isotemp
#409N0063 available from Fisher-Scientific) with a 2-inch magnetic
stir bar at 100 rpm for an additional 24 hours. Illustratively, an
emulsified decor product composition may include the following
constituents as shown below in Table No. 9. TABLE-US-00009 TABLE
NO. 9 Emulsified Decor Product Composition. Approx. Constituents
Weight % Water 70-97 Surfactant 0.1-5 Powder 1.1-40 Adhesive 0-10
Additive 0.1-5
[0193] The present disclosure is further illustrated by the
following examples, which should not be construed as limiting in
any way. Unless otherwise stated, all percentages recited in these
examples are weight percents based on total specified composition
weight.
EXAMPLES
[0194] The decor particle compositions of examples 1-24 were
prepared using the general processing procedure described above by
blending (mixing) and processing the constituents on a 19 mm APV
laboratory twin screw extruder (Model No. MP19TC-25, manufactured
by Baker Perkins) with co-rotating screws at 100.degree. C. barrel
temperature, 400 rpm screw speed, and 50% to 90% torque. The
extrudate was cooled on chill rolls that resulted in 3/32 inch
(about 3 mm) thick solid extrudate sheets. The sheets were broken
into flakes no larger than 1 square inch (6.45 cm.sup.2) in size.
The flakes were ground on air-cooled jet mills and classified to a
particle size range of about 0 microns to about 20 microns. The
decor products of examples 25-28 was prepared using the general
processing procedure described above by mixing the decor particle
or toner and emulsifier for a period of time until the decor
particles or toner were coated with the emulsifying agent or
agents. Water was then added and thoroughly mixed as described
above.
[0195] In the composition of Table Nos. 10-25, the trademark
KUKDO.RTM. KD-242G (manufactured by Kukdo Chemical Co., LTD) is a
type 3 bisphenol-A epoxy resin with an epoxy equivalent weight of
about 700 g/eq. In the composition of Table Nos. 10-17, Huntsman
Hardener XB 3086 (manufactured by Huntsman Advanced Materials) is a
proprietary phenolic curative containing phenol,
4,4'-(1-methylethylidene)bis-, polymer with
2,2'-[(1-methylethylidene)bis(4,1-phenyleneoxymethylene)]bis[oxirane]
(commonly described as a polymer of epoxy resin and bisphenol A), a
confidential accelerator, and phenol, 4,4'-(1-methylethylidene)bis-
(commonly known as bisphenol A). In the composition of Table Nos.
18-25, Actiron NXJ-60 (manufactured by Advanced Technology &
Industrial Co.) is a 2-propylimidazole catalyst. In the composition
of Table Nos. 10-13, 18-21, and 26-29, the trademark TI-PURE.RTM.
TiO.sub.2 R-960 (manufactured by E.I. du Pont de Nemours and
Company) is a titanium oxide white pigment. In the composition of
Table Nos. 11-12, 14-15, 19-20, 22-23, 27, and 30-31, Y 10M (CAS.
No. 51274-00-1, manufactured by ABCR) is an iron oxide yellow
pigment. In the composition of Table Nos. 11, 19, and 27-29,
274-0033 (CAS No. 5468-75-7, manufactured by ABCR) is a yellow
pigment having the chemical formula of
2,2'-((3,3'-dichloro(1,1'-biphenyl)-4,4'-diyl) bis(azo))
bis(N-(2-M-ehylphenyl)-3-oxobutyramide). In the composition of
Table Nos. 11, 19, and 27, HR-70 Yellow (manufactured by Clariant)
is a yellow organic pigment. In the compositions of Table Nos.
26-33 the trademark RUCOTE.RTM. 921 polyester (manufactured by
Bayer Material Science, LLC) is a low viscosity carboxyl functional
polyester having an acid value of 38 mg KOH/g, a hydroxyl number 6
mg KOH/g, a viscosity of 1800 ICI cone and plate at 200.degree.
C./cPs, and a Tg of 60.degree. C.
Example 1
Preparation of a White Low Temperature Cure Epoxy Decor
Particle
[0196] A white low temperature cure epoxy-based decor particle
having the composition shown in Table No. 10 below was prepared in
the manner described above. TABLE-US-00010 TABLE NO. 10 White Low
Temperature Cure Epoxy Composition. Constituents (wt %) KD-242G
Epoxy 48 Huntsman Hardener XB 3086 10 P-67 1 Oxymelt A-2 1
TiO.sub.2 R-960 40
Example 2
Preparation of a Yellow Low Temperature Cure Epoxy Decor
Particle
[0197] A yellow low temperature cure epoxy-based decor particle
having the composition shown in Table No. 11 below was prepared in
the manner described above. TABLE-US-00011 TABLE NO. 11 Yellow Low
Temperature Cure Epoxy Decor Particle Composition. Constituents (wt
%) KD-242G Epoxy 49 Huntsman Hardener XB 3086 11 P-67 1 Oxymelt A-2
1 TiO.sub.2 R-960 20 Y 10M Iron Oxide Yellow Pigment 4 274-0033 2.2
HR-70 Yellow Pigment 1.8 BaSO.sub.4 10
Example 3
Preparation of a Red Low Temperature Cure Epoxy Decor Particle
[0198] A red low temperature cure epoxy-based decor particle having
the composition shown in Table No. 12 below was prepared in the
manner described above. TABLE-US-00012 TABLE NO. 12 Red Low
Temperature Cure Epoxy Decor Particle Composition. Constituents (wt
%) KD-242G Epoxy 48.5 Huntsman Hardener XB 3086 10.3 P-67 1 Oxymelt
A-2 1.04 TiO.sub.2 R-960 5.13 Y 10M Iron Oxide Yellow Pigment 0.03
RT-172-D Pigment 2.5 F5RK-A Pigment 1.5 BaSO.sub.4 30
Example 4
Preparation of a Blue Low Temperature Cure Epoxy Decor Particle
[0199] A blue low temperature cure epoxy-based decor particle
having the composition shown in Table No. 13 below was prepared in
the manner described above. TABLE-US-00013 TABLE NO. 13 Blue Low
Temperature Cure Epoxy Decor Particle Composition. Constituents (wt
%) KD-242G Epoxy 49.25 Huntsman Hardener XB 3086 10.75 P-67 1
Oxymelt A-2 1.05 TiO.sub.2 R-960 15. 15-1101 A4R Pigment 2.5 BK
5099 0.45 BaSO.sub.4 20
Example 5
Preparation of a Brown Low Temperature Cure Epoxy Decor
Particle
[0200] A brown low temperature cure epoxy-based decor particle
having the composition shown in Table No. 14 below was prepared in
the manner described above. TABLE-US-00014 TABLE NO. 14 Brown Low
Temperature Cure Epoxy Decor Particle Composition. Constituents (wt
%) KD-242G Epoxy 51.67 Huntsman Hardener XB 3086 9.13 P-67 1
Oxymelt A-2 1 TiO.sub.2 RCL-6 1.18 Y 10M Iron Oxide Yellow Pigment
2.54 BK 5099 2 RO 8097 1.48 BaSO.sub.4 30
Example 6
Preparation of an Iron Oxide Yellow Low Temperature Cure Epoxy
Decor Particle
[0201] An iron oxide yellow low temperature cure epoxy-based decor
particle having the composition shown in Table No. 15 below was
prepared in the manner described above. TABLE-US-00015 TABLE NO. 15
Iron Oxide Yellow Low Temperature Cure Epoxy Decor Particle
Composition. Constituents (wt %) KD-242G Epoxy 57.8 Huntsman
Hardener XB 3086 10.2 P-67 1 Oxymelt A-2 1 Y 10M Iron Oxide Yellow
Pigment 20 BaSO.sub.4 10
Example 7
Preparation of a Iron Oxide Red Low Temperature Cure Epoxy Decor
Particle
[0202] An iron oxide red low temperature cure epoxy-based decor
particle having the composition shown in Table No. 16 below was
prepared in the manner described above. TABLE-US-00016 TABLE NO. 16
Iron Oxide Red Low Temperature Cure Epoxy Decor Particle
Composition. Constituents (wt %) KD-242G Epoxy 57.8 Huntsman
Hardener XB 3086 10.2 P-67 1 Oxymelt A-2 1 RO 8097 20 BaSO.sub.4
10
Example 8
Preparation of an Ultra Marine Blue Low Temperature Cure Epoxy
Decor Particle
[0203] An ultra marine blue low temperature cure epoxy-based decor
particle having the composition shown in Table No. 17 below was
prepared in the manner described above. TABLE-US-00017 TABLE NO. 17
Ultra Marine Blue Low Temperature Cure Epoxy Decor Particle
Composition. Constituents (wt %) KD-242G Epoxy 57.8 Huntsman
Hardener XB 3086 10.2 P-67 1 Oxymelt A-2 1 UMB-304 20 BaSO.sub.4
10
Example 9
Preparation of a White Low Temperature Cure Epoxy-Polyester Hybrid
Decor Particle
[0204] A white low temperature cure epoxy-polyester hybrid decor
particle having the composition shown in Table No. 18 below was
prepared in the manner described above. TABLE-US-00018 TABLE NO. 18
White Low Temperature Cure Epoxy-Polyester Hybrid Decor Particle
Composition. Constituents (wt %) KD-242G Epoxy 28.5 SP 3320 Hybrid
Polyester 29 P-67 1 Actiron NXJ-60 0.5 Oxymelt A-2 1 TiO.sub.2
R-960 40
Example 10
Preparation of a Yellow Low Temperature Cure Epoxy-Polyester Hybrid
Decor Particle
[0205] A yellow low temperature cure epoxy-polyester hybrid decor
particle having the composition shown in Table No. 19 below was
prepared in the manner described above. TABLE-US-00019 TABLE NO. 19
Yellow Low Temperature Cure Epoxy-Polyester Hybrid Decor Particle
Composition. Constituents (wt %) KD-242G Epoxy 29.75 SP 3320 Hybrid
Polyester 29.75 P-67 1 Actiron NXJ-60 0.5 Oxymelt A-2 1 TiO.sub.2
R-960 20 Y 10M Iron Oxide Yellow Pigment 4 274-0033 Pigment 2.2
HR-70 Yellow Pigment 1.8 BaSO.sub.4 10
Example 11
Preparation of a Red Low Temperature Cure Epoxy-Polyester Hybrid
Decor Particle
[0206] A red low temperature cure epoxy-polyester hybrid decor
particle having the composition shown in Table No. 20 below was
prepared in the manner described above. TABLE-US-00020 TABLE NO. 20
Red Low Temperature Cure Epoxy-Polyester Hybrid Decor Particle
Composition. Constituents (wt %) KD-242G Epoxy 29.15 SP 3320 Hybrid
Polyester 29.15 P-67 1 Actiron NXJ-60 0.5 Oxymelt A-2 1.04
TiO.sub.2 R-960 5.13 Y 10M Iron Oxide Yellow Pigment 0.03 RT-172-D
Pigment 2.5 F5RK-A Pigment 1.5 BaSO.sub.4 30
Example 12
Preparation of a Blue Low Temperature Cure Epoxy-Polyester Hybrid
Decor Particle
[0207] A blue low temperature cure epoxy-polyester hybrid decor
particle having the composition shown in Table No. 21 below was
prepared in the manner described above. TABLE-US-00021 TABLE NO. 21
Blue Low Temperature Cure Epoxy-Polyester Hybrid Decor Particle
Composition. Constituents (wt %) KD-242G Epoxy 29.75 SP 3320 Hybrid
Polyester 29.75 P-67 1 Actiron NXJ-60 0.5 Oxymelt A-2 1.05
TiO.sub.2 R-960 15 15-1101 A4R Pigment 2.5 BK 5099 0.45 BaSO.sub.4
20
Example 13
Preparation of a Brown Low Temperature Cure Epoxy-Polyester Hybrid
Decor Particle
[0208] A brown low temperature cure epoxy-polyester hybrid decor
particle having the composition shown in Table No. 22 below was
prepared in the manner described above. TABLE-US-00022 TABLE NO. 22
Brown Low Temperature Cure Epoxy-Polyester Hybrid Decor Particle
Composition. Constituents (wt %) KD-242G Epoxy 30.1 SP 3320 Hybrid
Polyester 30.2 P-67 1 Actiron NXJ-60 0.5 Oxymelt A-2 1 TiO.sub.2
RCL-6 1.18 Y 10M Iron Oxide Yellow Pigment 2.54 BK 5099 2 RO 8097
1.48 BaSO.sub.4 30
Example 14
Preparation of an Iron Oxide Yellow Low Temperature Cure
Epoxy-Polyester Hybrid Decor Particle
[0209] An iron oxide yellow low temperature cure epoxy-polyester
hybrid decor particle having the composition shown in Table No. 23
below was prepared in the manner described above. TABLE-US-00023
TABLE NO. 23 Iron Oxide Yellow Low Temperature Cure Epoxy-Polyester
Hybrid Decor Particle Composition. Constituents (wt %) KD-242G
Epoxy 33.75 SP 3320 Hybrid Polyester 33.75 P-67 1 Actiron NXJ-60
0.5 Oxymelt A-2 1 Y 10M Iron Oxide Yellow Pigment 20 BaSO.sub.4
10
Example 15
Preparation of an Iron Oxide Red Low Temperature Cure
Epoxy-Polyester Hybrid Decor Particle
[0210] An iron oxide red low temperature cure epoxy-polyester
hybrid decor particle having the composition shown in Table No. 24
below was prepared in the manner described above. TABLE-US-00024
TABLE NO. 24 Iron Oxide Red Low Temperature Cure Epoxy-Polyester
Hybrid Decor Particle Composition. Constituents (wt %) KD-242G
Epoxy 33.75 SP 3320 Hybrid Polyester 33.75 P-67 1 Actiron NXJ-60
0.5 Oxymelt A-2 1 RO 8097 20 BaSO.sub.4 10
Example 16
Preparation of an Ultra Marine Blue Low Temperature Cure
Epoxy-Polyester Hybrid Decor Particle
[0211] An ultra marine blue temperature cure epoxy-polyester hybrid
decor particle having the composition shown in Table No. 25 below
was prepared in the manner described above. TABLE-US-00025 TABLE
NO. 25 Ultra Marine Blue Low Temperature Cure Epoxy-Polyester
Hybrid Decor Particle Composition. Constituents (wt %) KD-242G
Epoxy 33.75 SP 3320 Hybrid Polyester 33.75 P-67 1 Actiron NXJ-60
0.5 Oxymelt A-2 1 UMB-304 20 BaSO.sub.4 10
Example 17
Preparation of a White Low Temperature Cure Polyester-TGIC Decor
Particle
[0212] A white low temperature cure polyester-TGIC decor particle
having the composition shown in Table No. 26 below was prepared in
the manner described above. TABLE-US-00026 TABLE NO. 26 White Low
Temperature Cure Polyester-TGIC Decor Particle Composition.
Constituents (wt %) Rucote 921 Polyester 54 TGIC 4 P-67 1 Oxymelt
A-2 1 TiO.sub.2 R-960 40
Example 18
Preparation of a Yellow Low Temperature Cure Polyester-TGIC Decor
Particle
[0213] A yellow low temperature cure polyester-TGIC decor particle
having the composition shown in Table No. 27 below was prepared in
the manner described above. TABLE-US-00027 TABLE NO. 27 Yellow Low
Temperature Cure Polyester-TGIC Decor Particle Composition.
Constituents (wt %) Rucote 921 Polyester 55.75 TGIC 4.25 P-67 1
Oxymelt A-2 1 TiO.sub.2 R-960 20 Y 10M Iron Oxide Yellow Pigment 4
274-0033 Pigment 2.2 HR-70 Yellow Pigment 1.8 BaSO.sub.4 10
Example 19
Preparation of a Red Low Temperature Cure Polyester-TGIC Decor
Particle
[0214] A red low temperature cure polyester-TGIC decor particle
having the composition shown in Table No. 28 below was prepared in
the manner described above. TABLE-US-00028 TABLE NO. 28 Red Low
Temperature Cure Polyester-TGIC Decor Particle Composition.
Constituents (wt %) Rucote 921 Polyester 54.6 TGIC 4.2 P-67 1
Oxymelt A-2 1.04 TiO.sub.2 R-960 5.13 274-0033 Pigment 0.03
RT-172-D 2.5 F5RK-A 1.5 BaSO.sub.4 30
Example 20
Preparation of a Blue Low Temperature Cure Polyester-TGIC Decor
Particle
[0215] A blue low temperature cure polyester-TGIC decor particle
having the composition shown in Table No. 29 below was prepared in
the manner described above. TABLE-US-00029 TABLE NO. 29 Blue Low
Temperature Cure Polyester-TGIC Decor Particle Composition.
Constituents (wt %) Rucote 921 Polyester 55.75 TGIC 4.25 P-67 1
Oxymelt A-2 1.05 TiO.sub.2 R-960 15 274-0033 Pigment 0.03 15-1101
A4R Pigment 2.5 BK 5099 0.45 BaSO.sub.4 20
Example 21
Preparation of a Brown Low Temperature Cure Polyester-TGIC Decor
Particle
[0216] A brown low temperature cure polyester-TGIC decor particle
having the composition shown in Table No. 30 below was prepared in
the manner described above. TABLE-US-00030 TABLE NO. 30 Brown Low
Temperature Cure Polyester-TGIC Decor Particle Composition.
Constituents (wt %) Rucote 921 Polyester 56.5 TGIC 4.3 P-67 1
Oxymelt A-2 1 TiO.sub.2 RCL-6 1.18 Y 10M Iron Oxide Yellow Pigment
2.54 BK 5099 2 RO 8097 1.48 BaSO.sub.4 30
Example 22
Preparation of an Iron Oxide Yellow Low Temperature Cure
Polyester-TGIC Decor Particle
[0217] An iron oxide yellow low temperature cure polyester-TGIC
decor particle having the composition shown in Table No. 31 below
was prepared in the manner described above. TABLE-US-00031 TABLE
NO. 31 Iron Oxide Yellow Low Temperature Cure Polyester-TGIC Decor
Particle Composition. Constituents (wt %) Rucote 921 Polyester 63.3
TGIC 4.7 P-67 1 Oxymelt A-2 1 Y 10M Iron Oxide Yellow Pigment 20
BaSO.sub.4 10
Example 23
Preparation of an Iron Oxide Red Low Temperature Cure
Polyester-TGIC Decor Particle
[0218] An iron oxide red low temperature cure polyester-TGIC decor
particle having the composition shown in Table No. 32 below was
prepared in the manner described above. TABLE-US-00032 TABLE NO. 32
Iron Oxide Red Low Temperature Cure Polyester-TGIC Decor Particle
Composition. Constituents (wt %) Rucote 921 Polyester 63.3 TGIC 4.7
P-67 1 Oxymelt A-2 1 RO 8097 20 BaSO.sub.4 10
Example 24
Preparation of a Ultra Marine Blue Low Temperature Cure
Polyester-TGIC Decor Particle
[0219] An ultra marine blue temperature cure polyester-TGIC decor
particle having the composition shown in Table No. 33 below was
prepared in the manner described above. TABLE-US-00033 TABLE NO. 33
Ultra Marine Blue Low Temperature Cure Polyester-TGIC Decor
Particle Composition. Constituents (wt %) Rucote 921 Polyester 63.3
TGIC 4.7 P-67 1 Oxymelt A-2 1 UMB-304 20 BaSO.sub.4 10
Example 25
Preparation of a Blue Low Temperature Cure Epoxy Decor Product
[0220] A blue low temperature cure epoxy-based decor product having
the composition shown in Table No. 34 below was prepared in the
manner described above. TABLE-US-00034 TABLE NO. 34 Blue Low
Temperature Cure Epoxy Decor Product Composition. Constituents (wt
%) Water 96.85 ALCOPRINT .TM. PTU 0.15 Composition of Table No. n13
3
Example 26
Preparation of a Blue Low Temperature Cure Epoxy-Polyester Hybrid
Decor Product
[0221] A blue low temperature cure epoxy-polyester hybrid decor
product having the composition shown in Table No. 35 below was
prepared in the manner described above. TABLE-US-00035 TABLE NO. 35
Blue Low Temperature Cure Epoxy-Polyester Hybrid Decor Product
Composition. Constituents (wt %) Water 96.85 ALCOPRINT .TM. PTU
0.15 Composition of Table No. 21 3
Example 27
Preparation of a Blue Low Temperature Cure Polyester-TGIC Decor
Product
[0222] A blue low temperature cure polyester-TGIC decor product
having the composition shown in Table No. 36 below was prepared in
the manner described above. TABLE-US-00036 TABLE NO. 36 Blue Low
Temperature Cure Polyester-TGIC Decor Product Composition.
Constituents (wt %) Water 96.85 ALCOPRINT .TM. PTU 0.15 Composition
of Table No. 29 3
Example 28
Preparation of a Blue Low Temperature Cure NATURAS.RTM. Based Decor
Product
[0223] A blue low temperature cure NATURA.RTM. based decor product
having the composition of shown in Table No. 37 below, was prepared
in the manner described above. Blue (cyan) NATURA.RTM. toner and
clear NATURA.RTM. toner from Sawgrass Technologies, Inc. were
purchased from ACP Technologies (I.D. Nos. 127 and 131,
respectively). TABLE-US-00037 TABLE NO. 37 Blue Low Temperature
NATURA .RTM. Based Decor Product. Constituents (wt %) Water 96.85
ALCOPRINT .TM. PTU 0.15 Blue NATURA .RTM. Toner 1.5 Clear NATURA
.RTM. Toner 1.5
Example 29
Application, Affixation, Reversibility, and Durability of the Decor
Products of Examples 25-28 on a Soft Surface
[0224] Decor products of the present disclosure were tested for the
ability to be applied to a nylon test carpet, removal
(reversibility) from the nylon test carpet prior to an affixation
step, affixation to the nylon test carpet using heat as the energy
source, and durability after affixation to the nylon test
carpet.
[0225] The four individual decor products of Examples 25-28 were
thoroughly mixed and individually placed into 8 oz. PET bottles
with finger pump fine mist sprayers having an output of 60 micron
particle size (N2862524410WHT3, bottle neck--24/410; available from
ebottles.com, Inc.). Four two-foot by two-foot pieces of nylon test
carpet were vacuumed using a Bissell CLEANVIEW.RTM. II vacuum
cleaner manufactured by Bissell Homecare, Inc. to remove loose
fibers and dirt. The specifications of the nylon test carpet
utilized are indicated in Table 38. TABLE-US-00038 TABLE 38 Nylon
Test Carpet and Polyester Test Carpet Specifications. Nylon Test
Carpet Polyester Test Carpet Style 7522 Favored One SP501
Manufacturer Mohawk Industries Mohawk Industries Pile Yarn Content
Filament 100% Nylon Spun 100% Polyester Yarn Twists per inch 4.25
.times. 4.25 5.0 .times. 4.8 Fabric Type Cut Pile Cut Pile Fiber
Treatment Ultrastrand with Mohawk APP Polyester soil & stain
W/SGC Gauge 5/32 1/8 C Pile Height 0.485 0.440 Stitches per inch
7.83 8.50 Certified Pile Weight 25.20 oz. 39.50 oz. Total Weight
56.29 oz. 71.03 oz. Density 1871 3232 Dye Method Fluidye Beck
Primary Backing Woven Polypropylene Woven Polypropylene Secondary
Backing Woven Polypropylene Woven Polypropylene Performance 3.50
3.25 Appearance Retention Rating
[0226] For each of the four pieces of nylon test carpet, the
baseline color of each of three spots over which a respective decor
product was applied was determined using a Minolta data processor
model No. DP-301 combined with a Minolta model No. CR-310 chroma
meter (both manufactured by Konica Minolta Sensing Americas, Inc.)
that was set to the "L-a-b" setting to record .DELTA.E (color
change) and calibrated according to the manufacturer's
instructions.
[0227] The following tests were performed separately for each of
the four decor products of Examples 25-28. Prior to application of
the decor product, a stencil made of a disposable absorbent
material available from Kimberly-Clark Corp. with a nylon mesh
backing was centered on the surface of the nylon test carpet
sample. Subsequently, the decor product was applied as a gentle
mist to the nylon test carpet from the finger sprayer at distance
of 8-10 inches from the nylon test carpet and at a rate to saturate
the top surface of the nylon test carpet. The applied decor product
was allowed to dry overnight at ambient temperature and humidity on
the nylon test carpet. Once dried one half of the applied decor
product pattern was removed from the nylon test carpet using a
Shop-Vac.RTM. 1.times.1.RTM. wet/dry vacuum with hose attachment
(1-1/4 inch diameter.times.4 feet). The vacuum characteristics
include 1 peak horsepower, 115 cubic feet/minute of air flow, 52
inches of sealed pressure, and electrical ratings of 120 V, 60 Hz,
and 5.5 A. The pattern was vacuumed twenty times in one direction
and then twenty times in the opposite direction over the same area.
Once vacuumed, L-a-b measurements were taken from the vacuumed
areas of the nylon test carpet with the Minolta data processor and
Minolta chroma meter.
[0228] The un-vacuumed decor product pattern was subsequently
affixed on the nylon test carpet by placing an absorbent paper
towel (WYPALL.RTM. X60 reinforced wipes from Kimberly-Clark Corp.)
over the decor product pattern and heating the decor product
pattern using a household iron (Hamilton-Beach Model #14340) set at
the highest setting (cotton). Heat was applied through the
absorbent paper towel in a circular motion for 21/2 minutes per
square ft of decor product. Subsequently, the paper towel was
removed from the nylon test carpet and L-a-b values were measured
on the affixed decor product pattern using the Minolta data
processor and Minolta chroma meter specified above.
[0229] To determine the resilience of the affixed decor product on
the nylon test carpet, one half of the affixed decor product was
vacuumed twenty times (using a back and forth motion) with a
Shop-Vac.RTM. 1.times.1.RTM. wet/dry vacuum with hose attachment.
The L-a-b values of the vacuumed and affixed versus the
affixed-only (unvacuumed) areas were taken using Minolta data
processor combined with a Minolta chroma meter as mentioned
above.
[0230] Reversibility, affixation, and durability of the decor
products of Examples 25-28 are shown below in Table Nos. 39-42.
TABLE-US-00039 TABLE NO. 39 Reversibility, Affixation, and
Durability of the Blue Low Temperature Cure Epoxy Decor Product of
Example 25. L a b .DELTA.E Initial 55.54 4.72 11.28 -- Application
45.53 4.83 -15.43 28.52 Reversibility 51.48 4.64 9.94 4.28
Affixation 39.11 2.51 -7.66 25.17 Durability (vacuumed) 41.89 1.99
-6.38 22.49 Durability (not 37.09 2.55 -8.66 27.25 vacuumed)
[0231] TABLE-US-00040 TABLE NO. 40 Reversibility, Affixation, and
Durability of the Blue Low Temperature Cure Epoxy-Polyester Hybrid
Decor Product of Example 26. L a b .DELTA.E Initial 53.05 5.01
11.52 -- Application 47.00 4.19 -4.35 17.00 Reversibility 50.63
4.99 10.52 2.62 Affixation 44.01 3.31 0.39 14.44 Durability
(vacuumed) 45.73 3.11 0.70 13.20 Durability (not vacuumed) 42.72
3.67 -0.20 15.68
[0232] TABLE-US-00041 TABLE NO. 41 Reversibility, Affixation, and
Durability of the Blue Low Temperature Cure Polyester-TGIC Decor
Product of Example 27. L a b .DELTA.E Initial 54.85 4.78 11.23 --
Application 47.17 4.47 -10.84 23.37 Reversibility 51.47 4.78 10.48
3.46 Affixation 43.19 3.37 -7.45 22.07 Durability (vacuumed) 42.06
3.27 -6.38 21.82 Durability (not vacuumed) 42.51 3.50 -5.60
20.91
[0233] TABLE-US-00042 TABLE NO. 42 Reversibility, Affixation, and
Durability of the Blue Low Temperature NATURA .RTM. Based Decor
Product of Example 28. L a b .DELTA.E Initial 54.95 4.79 11.31 --
Application 42.72 1.58 -11.09 25.72 Reversibility 50.89 4.70 11.37
4.06 Affixation 38.45 -3.01 -10.75 28.63 Durability (vacuumed)
37.05 -2.80 -8.62 27.84 Durability (not vacuumed) 38.23 -2.63
-10.17 28.21
Example 30
Determination of Glass Transition Temperatures (Tg) and Melting
Temperatures (Tm) of Surface Substrates
[0234] Tg and Tm of surface substrates were measured using a Model
Q100 Differential Scanning Calorimeter (TA Instruments, Inc.) at a
heating rate of 20.degree. C./min. Specifically, in this way, the
nylon carpet of Table No. 38 was measured to have a Tg of
40-45.degree. C. and a Tm of 257.degree. C. Further, a polyester
carpet of Table No. 38 was measured to have a Tg of 140-150.degree.
C. and a Tm of 247.degree. C.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICATION
[0235] The method disclosed herein allows for the application of a
decor product to be applied to a surface, and more specifically a
soft surface such as a carpet, a rug, draperies, curtains,
upholstery, and the like. By applying the decor product to the soft
surface, perceived aesthetic quality of the soft surface is
improved and may extend the useful life of the soft surface before
need for replacement.
[0236] The disclosure has been presented in an illustrative manner
in order to enable a person of ordinary skill in the art to make
and use the disclosure, and the terminology used is intended to be
in the nature of description rather than of limitation. It is
understood that the disclosure may be practiced in ways other than
as specifically disclosed, and that all modifications, equivalents,
and variations of the present disclosure, which are possible in
light of the above teachings and ascertainable to a person of
ordinary skill in the art, are specifically included within the
scope of the impending claims. All patents, patent publications,
and other references cited herein are incorporated herein by
reference in their entirety.
* * * * *