Patent ID: 6406582
Filing Date: 2002-06-18
Classification: B32B,B44C,Y10T

Abstract:
A method of applying at least one of a decoration and information on a sign substrate, utilizing a foil comprising a pattern layer united by a first adhesive to a carrier layer, and a transfer film with a self-adhesive surface, and further utilizing a cutter controlled by an electronic control unit, a laminating table having a flat layout surface, and a traverse spanning the layout surface and including at least one press roll; said method comprising:(a) using the cutting device preprogrammed to cut a predetermined pattern including at least one of the decoration and information, cutting the foil pattern layer to form a foil having the predetermined pattern; then (b) placing the foil on the layout surface with the pattern layer facing substantially upwardly; then (c) in a controlled manner, passing the press roll under pressure over the foil on the layout surface while bringing the self-adhesive surface of the transfer film over and around the press roll into contact with the foil pattern layer, so as to form a first laminate comprising the transfer film and foil; (d) removing the carrier layer of the foil, and any spill of the pattern layer, from the first laminate so that the foil having the predetermined pattern remains with the transfer film, and so that the first adhesive remaining with the foil having the predetermined pattern is exposed; (e) placing the sign substrate on the layout table; (f) bringing the exposed first adhesive of the foil having the predetermined pattern into contact with the sign substrate to produce a second pre-laminate; then (g) in a controlled manner, passing the press roll under pressure over the second pre-laminate on the layout surface so as to press air enclosed in the second pre-laminate out of the second pre-laminate, to form a second laminate comprising the transfer film, the foil having the predetermined pattern, and the sign substrate, with the foil having the predetermined pattern substantially permanently secured to the sign substrate; and then (h) removing the transfer film from the second laminate so as to provide a sign substrate with the foil predetermined pattern thereon.