Decorative flocking techniques
US6214141A · kind A · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 2, 1998 |
| Grant date | Apr 10, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 2, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB05D1/14
- WIPO fieldSurface technology, coating
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A method of flocking a surface, and treating the flocking, achieves a decorative effect when applied to toys where the invention may be used to simulate different types of human and animal hair and fur. After applying an adhesive to a surface to be flocked, a group of flocking particles are directed onto the surface, and the result is modified using alternative techniques to achieve the desired effect. In one embodiment, the particles are in the form of fibers which "ball up" upon the application of heat, and the outwardly exposed ends of the particles are flame-treated to create a kinky appearance. Nylon fibers are suitable in this case. In an alternative embodiment, an adhesive is applied to the flocking particles attached to the surface, and additional flocking particles are applied to the adhesive-coated fibers. As further alternative embodiment, air pressure is applied to the particles before the adhesive cures, so that the particles assume a preferred orientation with respect to the surface. In all cases, two groups of particles are preferably directed toward and onto the surface before the adhesive cures so as to fill in gaps following the initial application. Preferably, th…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.