Generation of color images

Methods for generating a color image are provided which include a multi-layer construction in which at least one of the layers is a thermally activatable layer that includes a thermally activatable composition. The thermally activatable composition includes a non-linear light to heat converter composition and a color forming compound. Upon activation with a light source an image forms.

Three-dimensional articles using nonlinear thermal polymerization

A method for building three-dimensional articles using a thermal polymerization process in provided. The articles are built by using a composition that includes a thermally polymerizable composition, a thermal initiator, and a nonlinear light-to-heat conversion material such as a reverse saturable dye. The article is built by the sequential exposure of adjacent voxels with a laser beam. Microlens arrays can be used to expose more than one voxel at a time.

SHEETING WITH COMPOSITE IMAGE THAT FLOATS

Translucent, transparent, or semi-translucent microlens sheetings with composite images are disclosed, in which a composite image floats above or below the sheeting, or both. The composite image may be two-dimensional or three-dimensional. The sheeting may have at least one layer of material having a surface of microlenses that form one or more images at positions internal to the layer of material, at least one of the images being a partially complete image. Additional layers, such as retroreflective, translucent, transparent, or optical structure layers may also be incorporated into the sheeting. © KIPO & WIPO 2009 ...

INTERFERENCE FILMS HAVING ACRYLAMIDE LAYER AND METHOD OF MAKING SAME

A method for forming a color shifting film on a support, the film comprising a reflective stack disposed adjacent to the support and an image is disclosed. The reflective stack comprises an at least partially transparent spacer layer comprising a substituted acrylamide polymer disposed between a partially reflective first layer and a reflective second layer. The acrylamide layer has a thickness sufficient to produce an interference color.

LASER-PERSONALIZABLE SECURITY ARTICLES

Laser-personalizable security articles include multi-layer security documents. The multi-layer security document includes an optically transparent cover layer, a composite image and an imagable layer adjacent to the cover layer. The first surface of the cover layer is at least partially a microstructured surface, where the microstructured surface forms microlenses or a lenticular surface. The composite image is made by a collection of complete or partial images viewed through the microstructured surface of the cover layer. The composite image is located on or within the second surface of the cover layer. The imagable layer is a laser imagable layer. When imaged, a personalized second composite three dimensional image is created on or in the imagable layer. 1. A laser-personalizable security article comprising: an optically transparent cover layer with a first surface, a second surface, and a thickness between the first surface and the second surface, the first surface being at least partially a microstructured surface, wherein the microstructured surface forms microlenses or a lenticular surface;', 'a composite image, wherein the composite image comprises a collection of complete or partial images located such that when viewed through the microstructured surface of the cover layer, the collection of complete or partial images forms the composite image; and', 'an imagable layer wherein the imagable layer comprises a laser imagable layer., 'a multi-layer security document, the multi-layer security document comprising2. The laser-personalizable security article of claim 1 , wherein the collection of complete or partial images is located on or within the second surface of the cover layer.3. The laser-personalizable security article of claim 2 , wherein the microstructured surface comprises microlenses claim 2 , and the cover layer thickness is such that the second surface of the cover layer is within the focal plane of the microlenses.4. The laser-personalizable ...

SHEETING WITH COMPOSITE IMAGE THAT FLOATS

Translucent, transparent, or semi-translucent microlens sheetings with composite images are disclosed, in which a composite image floats above or below the sheeting, or both. The composite image may be two-dimensional or three-dimensional. The sheeting may have at least one layer of material having a surface of microlenses that form one or more images at positions internal to the layer of material, at least one of the images being a partially complete image. Additional layers, such as retroreflective, translucent, transparent, or optical structure layers may also be incorporated into the sheeting.

Sheeting with composite image that floats

Translucent, transparent, or semi-translucent microlens sheetings with composite images are disclosed, in which a composite image floats above or below the sheeting, or both. The composite image may be two-dimensional or three-dimensional. The sheeting may have at least one layer of material having a surface of microlenses that form one or more images at positions internal to the layer of material, at least one of the images being a partially complete image. Additional layers, such as retroreflective, translucent, transparent, or optical structure layers may also be incorporated into the sheeting.

PULSED ELECTRON BEAM POLYMERIZATION

Described is a polymerization method comprising: providing a substrate; coating at least a portion of said substrate with a polymerizable composition; providing an electron beam that is capable of producing pulses of accelerated electrons; and irradiating said polymerizable composition with said pulses of accelerated electrons to polymerize said polymerizable composition. Under certain conditions, the polymerization takes place heterogeneously. © KIPO & WIPO 2007 ...

SHEETING WITH COMPOSITE IMAGE THAT FLOATS

Techniques are described for forming microlens sheeting having composite images that appear to float with respect to the plane of the sheeting. As one example, a method comprises forming one or more images within a sheeting having a surface of microlenses, wherein at least one of the images is a partially complete image, and wherein each of the images is associated with a different one of the microlenses, wherein the microlenses have refractive surfaces that transmit light to positions within the sheeting to produce a plurality of composite images from the images formed within the sheeting so that each of the composite images appears to float with respect to the plane of the sheeting, and wherein forming the one or more images comprises forming the one or more images such that each of the composite images is associated with a different viewing angle range.

Pulsed electron beam polymerization

MULTILAYER OPTICAL FILMS HAVING SIDE-BY-SIDE MIRROR/POLARIZER ZONES

A reflective film includes interior layers that selectively reflect light by constructive or destructive interference, the layers extending from a first to a second zone of the film. In the first zone, the layers operate substantially as a reflective polarizer; in the second zone they operate substantially as a mirror. The layers may thus provide a first reflective characteristic in the first zone wherein normally incident light of one polarization state is substantially reflected and normally incident light of an orthogonal polarization state is substantially transmitted, and a second reflective characteristic in the second zone wherein normally incident light of any polarization state is substantially reflected. The film may have a first thickness in the first zone that is substantially the same as a second thickness in the second zone. Alternatively, the second thickness may be substantially less than the first thickness. Related methods, articles, and systems are also disclosed.

Effective media retarder films with spatially selective birefringence reduction

A retarder film provides a first light retardation and can be heat processed in one or more selected areas to provide a second light retardation in the selected area(s). The retarder film may have an absorption characteristic such that the heat processing can be carried out by selectively exposing the film to a suitable radiant beam. The retarder film is composed of a stack of contiguous ultrathin layers configured to provide an effective optical medium for visible light. Visible light propagates through the stack as an effective medium having effective refractive indices along principal x-, y-, and z-axes. At least some of the ultrathin layers possess intrinsic birefringence, and the effective indices of the stack are functions of the intrinsic refractive indices of the constituent ultrathin layers. The heat processing is carried out so that the ultrathin layer stack structural integrity is not substantially altered in the processed area(s).

INTERFERENCE FILMS HAVING ACRYLAMIDE LAYER AND METHOD OF MAKING SAME

A method for forming a color shifting film on a supportand a color shifting film are disclosed, the film comprising a reflective stack disposed adjacent to the support and an image formed in the film such that it may be viewed or illuminated through the reflective stack. The reflective stack comprises an at least partially transparent spacer layer comprising a substituted acrylamide polymer disposed between a partially reflective first layer and a reflective second layer. The acrylamide layer has a thickness sufficient to produce an interference color. COPYRIGHT KIPO & WIPO 2010 ...

Sheeting with composite image that floats

Techniques are described for forming microlens sheeting having composite images that appear to float with respect to the plane of the sheeting. As one example, a method comprises forming one or more images within a sheeting having a surface of microlenses, wherein at least one of the images is a partially complete image, and wherein each of the images is associated with a different one of the microlenses, wherein the microlenses have refractive surfaces that transmit light to positions within the sheeting to produce a plurality of composite images from the images formed within the sheeting so that each of the composite images appears to float with respect to the plane of the sheeting, and wherein forming the one or more images comprises forming the one or more images such that each of the composite images is associated with a different viewing angle range.

Process for making microlens arrays and masterforms

A process for making a microlens array or a microlens array masterform comprises (a) providing a photoreactive composition, the photoreactive composition comprising (1) at least one reactive species that is capable of undergoing an acid- or radical-initiated chemical reaction, and (2) at least one multiphoton photoinitiator system; and (b) imagewise exposing at least a portion of the composition to light sufficient to cause simultaneous absorption of at least two photons, thereby inducing at least one acid- or radical-initiated chemical reaction where the composition is exposed to the light, the imagewise exposing being carried out in a pattern that is effective to define at least the surface of a plurality of microlenses, each of the microlenses having a principal axis and a focal length, and at least one of the microlenses being an aspherical microlens.

MULTILAYER OPTICAL FILMS HAVING SIDE-BY-SIDE MIRROR/POLARIZER ZONES

A reflective film includes interior layers that selectively reflect light by constructive or destructive interference, the layers extending from a first to a second zone of the film. In the first zone, the layers operate substantially as a reflective polarizer; in the second zone they operate substantially as a mirror. The layers may thus provide a first reflective characteristic in the first zone wherein normally incident light of one polarization state is substantially reflected and normally incident light of an orthogonal polarization state is substantially transmitted, and a second reflective characteristic in the second zone wherein normally incident light of any polarization state is substantially reflected. The film may have a first thickness in the first zone that is substantially the same as a second thickness in the second zone. Alternatively, the second thickness may be substantially less than the first thickness. Related methods, articles, and systems are also disclosed. 1. A multilayer optical film , comprising:a plurality of interior layers arranged to selectively reflect light by constructive or destructive interference to provide a first reflective characteristic, the layers extending from a first zone to a second zone of the film;wherein the plurality of interior layers comprises a first set of layers composed of a first material and a second set of layers composed of a second material different from the first material, at least one of the first and second sets of layers being birefringent;wherein the film has an absorption characteristic tailored to heat the interior layers, in response to the film being illuminated with a suitable light beam, sufficiently to change a birefringence of at least some of the interior layers while maintaining a structural integrity of the plurality of interior layers, such change in birefringence being sufficient to change the first reflective characteristic to a different second reflective characteristic; andwherein ...

REFRACTIVE INDEX MODULATION IN GLASS USING A FEMTOSECOND LASER

The invention relates to inducing a refractive index change in the glass substrate of a polymer coated optical device by using a high numeric aperture lens to focus a femtosecond laser beam through the polymeric coating to the substrate without damaging the polymeric coating. © KIPO & WIPO 2007 ...

Multi-layer articles capable of forming color images and methods of forming color images

Multi-layer articles are described that are capable of forming color images. The articles include at least six layers, four thermally activatable layers (layers 1-4) and two blocking layers (layer 5 and 6). The layers are arranged such that layer 5 is disposed between layers 1 and 2 and layer 6 is disposed between layers 3 and 4. Thermally activatable layers 1 and 2 are activatable upon exposure to light of a first write wavelength, and blocking layer 5 is adapted to at least partially block light of the first write wavelength. Thermally activatable layers 3 and 4 are activatable upon exposure to light of a second write wavelength, and blocking layer 6 is adapted to at least partially block light of the second write wavelength. At least one, and possibly all of the thermally activatable layers include a light to heat convertor composition and a color changing compound. Some of the thermally activatable layers may be a group of layers arranged to selectively reflect light by constructive ...

Multilayer optical films having side-by-side mirror/polarizer zones

A reflective film includes interior layers that selectively reflect light by constructive or destructive interference, the layers extending from a first to a second zone of the film. In the first zone, the layers operate substantially as a reflective polarizer; in the second zone they operate substantially as a mirror. The layers may thus provide a first reflective characteristic in the first zone wherein normally incident light of one polarization state is substantially reflected and normally incident light of an orthogonal polarization state is substantially transmitted, and a second reflective characteristic in the second zone wherein normally incident light of any polarization state is substantially reflected. The film may have a first thickness in the first zone that is substantially the same as a second thickness in the second zone. Alternatively, the second thickness may be substantially less than the first thickness.

MULTILAYER OPTICAL FILMS SUITABLE FOR BI-LEVEL INTERNAL PATTERNING

A reflective film includes a first optical stack that provides a first reflective characteristic and a second optical stack that provides a second reflective characteristic. The optical stacks also have first and second absorptive characteristics that are suitable to absorptively heat the respective stacks upon exposure to light including a write wavelength while maintaining the structural integrity of the stacks. The absorptive heating can change the first and second reflective characteristics to third and fourth reflective characteristics, respectively. A blocking layer that at least partially blocks light of the write wavelength may also be provided between the optical stacks to permit absorptive heating of any selected one of the optical stacks. The reflective characteristics of the optical stacks can thus be independently modified in any desired patterns by appropriate delivery of light beams that include the write wavelength.

Microlens sheeting with floating image using a shape memory material

A sheeting includes a layer of a shape-memory polymer material having a surface of microlenses, wherein each of the microlenses is associated with one of a plurality of images within the sheeting. The layer of the shape-memory polymer material is responsive to an external stimulus; e.g., temperature, solvent, or moisture; by transitioning from a first state in which an optical property of the microlenses has a first value to a second state in which the optical property of the microlenses has a second value. The microlenses have refractive surfaces that transmit light to positions within the sheeting to produce a composite image from the images formed within the sheeting when the layer of the shape-memory polymer material is in one of the first state and the second state. At least one of the images is a partially complete image, and each of the images is associated with a different one of the microlenses.

MICROLENS SHEETING WITH FLOATING IMAGE USING A SHAPE MEMORY MATERIAL

A sheeting includes a layer of a shape-memory polymer material having a surface of microlenses, wherein each of the microlenses is associated with one of a plurality of images within the sheeting. The layer of the shape-memory polymer material is responsive to an external stimulus; e.g., temperature, solvent, or moisture; by transitioning from a first state in which an optical property of the microlenses has a first value to a second state in which the optical property of the microlenses has a second value. The microlenses have refractive surfaces that transmit light to positions within the sheeting to produce a composite image from the images formed within the sheeting when the layer of the shape-memory polymer material is in one of the first state and the second state. At least one of the images is a partially complete image, and each of the images is associated with a different one of the microlenses. © KIPO & WIPO 2009 ...

Interference films having acrylamide layer and method of making same

A method for forming a color shifting film on a support, the film comprising a reflective stack disposed adjacent to the support and an image is disclosed. The reflective stack comprises an at least partially transparent spacer layer comprising a substituted acrylamide polymer disposed between a partially reflective first layer and a reflective second layer. The acrylamide layer has a thickness sufficient to produce an interference color.

MULTILAYER OPTICAL FILMS HAVING SIDE-BY-SIDE POLARIZER/POLARIZER ZONES

A reflective film includes interior layers that selectively reflect light by constructive or destructive interference, the layers extending from a first to a second zone of the film. In the first zone the layers provide a first reflective polarizer characteristic, and in a second zone the layers provide a substantially different reflective polarizer characteristic. The second zone is characterized by at least some of the layers having a reduced birefringence relative to their birefringence in the first zone. In some cases the first reflective polarizer characteristic may have a pass axis that is substantially orthogonal to that of the second reflective polarizer characteristic. The film may have substantially the same thickness in the first and second zones, or a substantially reduced thickness in the second zone relative to the first zone.

THREE-DIMENSIONAL ARTICLES USING NONLINEAR THERMAL POLYMERIZATION

A method for building three-dimensional articles using a thermal polymerization process in provided. The articles are built by using a composition that includes a thermally polymerizable composition, a thermal initiator, and a nonlinear light-to-heat conversion material such as a reverse saturable dye. The article is built by the sequential exposure of adjacent voxels with a laser beam. Microlens arrays can be used to expose more than one voxel at a time.

Internally patterned multilayer optical films with multiple birefringent layers

A reflective film includes interior layers that selectively reflect light by constructive or destructive interference, the layers extending from a first to a second zone of the film. The interior layers include a first set of layers composed of a first material and a second set of layers composed of a different second material. The first and second sets of layers are both birefringent in the first zone, but at least some of the layers have reduced birefringence in the second zone. The reduced birefringence produces a second reflective characteristic in the second zone that differs from a first reflective characteristic in the first zone, this difference not being substantially attributable to any thickness difference between the first and second zones. The film may also incorporate absorbing agents to assist in the manufacture or processing of the film.

Laser-personalizable security articles

Laser-personalizable security articles include a multi-layer security document and an optically transparent processing tape. The multi-layer security document includes an optically transparent cover layer, a composite image and an imagable layer adjacent to the cover layer. The first surface of the cover layer is at least partially a microstructured surface, where the microstructured surface forms microlenses or a lenticular surface. The composite image is made by a collection of complete or partial images viewed through the microstructured surface of the cover layer. The composite image is located on or within the second surface of the cover layer. The imagable layer is a laser. The optically transparent processing tape sufficiently wets out on the misconstructured surface to render the microstructured surface invisible to a writing laser.

SHEETING WITH COMPOSITE IMAGE THAT FLOATS

Translucent, transparent, or semi-translucent microlens sheetings with composite images are disclosed, in which a composite image floats above or below the sheeting, or both. The composite image may be two-dimensional or three-dimensional. The sheeting may have at least one layer of material having a surface of microlenses that form one or more images at positions internal to the layer of material, at least one of the images being a partially complete image. Additional layers, such as retroreflective, translucent, transparent, or optical structure layers may also be incorporated into the sheeting.

Mask processing using films with spatially selective birefringence reduction

Certain patternable reflective films are used as masks to make other patterned articles, and one or more initial masks can be used to pattern the patternable reflective films. An exemplary patternable reflective film has an absorption characteristic suitable to, upon exposure to a radiant beam, absorptively heat a portion of the film by an amount sufficient to change a first reflective characteristic to a different second reflective characteristic. The change from the first to the second reflective characteristic is attributable to a change in birefringence of one or more layers or materials of the patternable film. In a related article, a mask is attached to such a patternable reflective film. The mask may have opaque portions and light-transmissive portions. Further, the mask may have light-transmissive portions with structures such as focusing elements and/or prismatic elements.

INTERNALLY PATTERNED MULTILAYER OPTICAL FILMS USING SPATIALLY SELECTIVE BIREFRINGENCE REDUCTION

A reflective film includes interior layers arranged to selectively reflect light by constructive or destructive interference, the layers extending from a first zone to a second zone of the film. The film has a first thickness and the interior layers provide a first reflective characteristic in the first zone; the film has a second thickness and the interior layers provide a second reflective characteristic in the second zone. The difference between the first and second reflective characteristics is not substantially attributable to any difference between the first and second thicknesses, which difference may be zero. Rather, the difference in the reflective characteristics is substantially attributable to reduced birefringence of at least some of the interior layers in one zone relative to the other zone. The film may also incorporate absorbing agents to assist in the manufacture or processing of the film. Related methods and articles are also disclosed. 1. A multilayer optical film , comprising:a plurality of interior layers arranged to selectively reflect light by constructive or destructive interference, the layers extending from a first zone to a neighboring second zone of the film;wherein at least some of the layers exhibit different amounts of birefringence in the first zone relative to the second zone; andwherein the plurality of layers exhibits differing first and second reflective characteristics in the first and second zones respectively substantially as a result of the differing birefringence.2. A multilayer optical film , comprising:a plurality of interior layers arranged to selectively reflect light by constructive or destructive interference to provide a first reflective characteristic;wherein the plurality of interior layers comprises a first set of layers composed of a first material and a second set of layers composed of a second material different from the first material, at least one of the first and second sets of layers being birefringent; ...

MULTILAYER OPTICAL FILMS HAVING SIDE-BY-SIDE POLARIZER/POLARIZER ZONES

A reflective film includes interior layers that selectively reflect light by constructive or destructive interference, the layers extending from a first to a second zone of the film. In the first zone the layers provide a first reflective polarizer characteristic, and in a second zone the layers provide a substantially different reflective polarizer characteristic. The second zone is characterized by at least some of the layers having a reduced birefringence relative to their birefringence in the first zone. In some cases the first reflective polarizer characteristic may have a pass axis that is substantially orthogonal to that of the second reflective polarizer characteristic. The film may have substantially the same thickness in the first and second zones, or a substantially reduced thickness in the second zone relative to the first zone.

Scanned, pulsed electron-beam polymerization

The present invention discloses a method, including: (1) coating at least a portion of at least one major surface of a substrate with a polymerizable composition to obtain a coated surface; and (2) initiating polymerization of the polymerizable composition by scanning a first electron-beam focused on the coated surface across at least a portion of the coated surface, thereby irradiating the coated surface at a frequency selected to achieve an exposure duration of greater than 0 and no greater than 10 microseconds, and a dark time between each exposure duration of at least one millisecond, thereby producing an at least partially polymerized composition. A pressure sensitive adhesive article and a cross-linked silicone release liner made according to the method are also disclosed.

SHEETING WITH COMPOSITE IMAGE THAT FLOATS

Translucent, transparent, or semi-translucent microlens sheetings with composite images are disclosed, in which a composite image floats above or below the sheeting, or both. The composite image may be two-dimensional or three-dimensional. The sheeting may have at least one layer of material having a surface of microlenses that form one or more images at positions internal to the layer of material, at least one of the images being a partially complete image. Additional layers, such as retroreflective, translucent, transparent, or optical structure layers may also be incorporated into the sheeting. 1. A method comprising:providing a sheeting having a layer of material having a surface of microlenses, wherein each of the microlenses occupies a different position on the layer of material; andimaging the layer of material with an energy source to direct diverging energy to the microlenses, wherein each of the microlenses transmits the energy to a unique position on the material to form a respective image adjacent the microlens.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein imaging the sheeting comprises setting a focus point of the energy source within the layer of material of the sheeting.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the diverging energy in the imaging step is provided by directing energy through a diverging lens having a focal point set in front of the microlenses opposite the layer of material of the sheeting.4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising illuminating the sheeting to produce a composite image from the images formed adjacent the microlenses so that the composite image appears to float above the sheeting claim 1 , float below the sheeting claim 1 , or float in the plane of the sheeting.5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the composite image is a two-dimensional image or a three-dimensional image.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein providing a sheeting comprises forming the microlenses on a first side of the layer of material and forming a retroreflective ...

LASER-PERSONALIZABLE SECURITY ARTICLES

Laser-personalizable security articles include a multi-layer security document and an optically transparent processing tape. The multi-layer security document includes an optically transparent cover layer, a composite image and an imagable layer adjacent to the cover layer. The first surface of the cover layer is at least partially a microstructured surface, where the microstructured surface forms microlenses or a lenticular surface. The composite image is made by a collection of complete or partial images viewed through the microstructured surface of the cover layer. The composite image is located on or within the second surface of the cover layer. The imagable layer is a laser imagable layer. The optically transparent processing tape sufficiently wets out on the microstrucured surface to render the microstructured surface invisible to a writing laser. 1. A laser-personalizable security article comprising: an optically transparent cover layer with a first surface, a second surface, and a thickness between the first surface and the second surface, the first surface being at least partially a microstructured surface, wherein the microstructured surface forms microlenses or a lenticular surface;', 'a composite image, wherein the composite image comprises a collection of complete or partial images located such that when viewed through the microstructured surface of the cover layer, the collection of complete or partial images forms the composite image; and', 'an imagable layer adjacent to the cover layer, wherein the imagable layer comprises a laser imagable layer; and, 'a multi-layer security document, the multi-layer security document comprisingan optically transparent, removable, conformable layer, wherein the removable, conformable layer sufficiently wets out on the microstructured surface to render the microstructured surface invisible to a writing laser.2. The laser-personalizable security article of claim 1 , wherein the optically transparent claim 1 , removable ...

INTERNALLY PATTERNED MULTILAYER OPTICAL FILMS USING SPATIALLY SELECTIVE BIREFRINGENCE REDUCTION

A reflective film includes interior layers arranged to selectively reflect light by constructive or destructive interference, the layers extending from a first zone to a second zone of the film. The film has a first thickness and the interior layers provide a first reflective characteristic in the first zone; the film has a second thickness and the interior layers provide a second reflective characteristic in the second zone. The difference between the first and second reflective characteristics is not substantially attributable to any difference between the first and second thicknesses, which difference may be zero. Rather, the difference in the reflective characteristics is substantially attributable to reduced birefringence of at least some of the interior layers in one zone relative to the other zone. The film may also incorporate absorbing agents to assist in the manufacture or processing of the film. Related methods and articles are also disclosed.

Microlens sheeting with floating image using a shape memory material

A sheeting includes a layer of a shape-memory polymer material having a surface of microlenses, wherein each of the microlenses is associated with one of a plurality of images within the sheeting. The layer of the shape-memory polymer material is responsive to an external stimulus; e.g., temperature, solvent, or moisture; by transitioning from a first state in which an optical property of the microlenses has a first value to a second state in which the optical property of the microlenses has a second value. The microlenses have refractive surfaces that transmit light to positions within the sheeting to produce a composite image from the images formed within the sheeting when the layer of the shape-memory polymer material is in one of the first state and the second state. At least one of the images is a partially complete image, and each of the images is associated with a different one of the microlenses.

PROCESS FOR MAKING MICROLENS ARRAYS AND MASTERFORMS

A process for making a microlens array or a microlens array masterform comprises (a) providing a photoreactive composition, the photoreactive composition comprising (1) at least one reactive species that is capable of undergoing an acid- or radical-initiated chemical reaction, and (2) at least one multiphoton photoinitiator system; and (b) imagewise exposing at least a portion of the composition to light sufficient to cause simultaneous absorption of at least two photons, thereby inducing at least one acid- or radical-initiated chemical reaction where the composition is exposed to the light, the imagewise exposing being carried out in a pattern that is effective to define at least the surface of a plurality of microlenses, each of the microlenses having a principal axis and a focal length, and at least one of the microlenses being an aspherical microlens.

Process for making microlens arrays and masterforms

A process for making a microlens array or a microlens array masterform comprises (a) providing a photoreactive composition, the photoreactive composition comprising (1) at least one reactive species that is capable of undergoing an acid- or radical-initiated chemical reaction, and (2) at least one multiphoton photoinitiator system; and (b) imagewise exposing at least a portion of the composition to light sufficient to cause simultaneous absorption of at least two photons, thereby inducing at least one acid- or radical-initiated chemical reaction where the composition is exposed to the light, the imagewise exposing being carried out in a pattern that is effective to define at least the surface of a plurality of microlenses, each of the microlenses having a principal axis and a focal length, and at least one of the microlenses being an aspherical microlens.

NANOSTRUCTURED ARTICLES AND METHODS TO MAKE THE SAME

Material comprising sub-micrometer particles dispersed in a polymeric matrix. The materials are useful in article, for example, for numerous applications including display applications (e.g., liquid crystal displays (LCD), light emitting diode (LED) displays, or plasma displays); light extraction; electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding, ophthalmic lenses; face shielding lenses or films; window films; antireflection for construction applications; and construction applications or traffic signs.

INTERNALLY PATTERNED MULTILAYER OPTICAL FILMS WITH MULTIPLE BIREFRINGENT LAYERS

A reflective film includes interior layers that selectively reflect light by constructive or destructive interference, the layers extending from a first to a second zone of the film. The interior layers include a first set of layers composed of a first material and a second set of layers composed of a different second material. The first and second sets of layers are both birefringent in the first zone, but at least some of the layers have reduced birefringence in the second zone. The reduced birefringence produces a second reflective characteristic in the second zone that differs from a first reflective characteristic in the first zone, this difference not being substantially attributable to any thickness difference between the first and second zones. The film may also incorporate absorbing agents to assist in the manufacture or processing of the film. Related methods and articles are also disclosed.

Process for making microlens arrays and masterforms

A process for making a microlens array or a microlens array masterform comprises (a) providing a photoreactive composition, the photoreactive composition comprising (1) at least one reactive species that is capable of undergoing an acid- or radical-initiated chemical reaction, and (2) at least one multiphoton photoinitiator system; and (b) imagewise exposing at least a portion of the composition to light sufficient to cause simultaneous absorption of at least two photons, thereby inducing at least one acid- or radical-initiated chemical reaction where the composition is exposed to the light, the imagewise exposing being carried out in a pattern that is effective to define at least the surface of a plurality of microlenses, each of the microlenses having a principal axis and a focal length, and at least one of the microlenses being an aspherical microlens.

Multilayer optical films having side-by-side polarizer/polarizer zones

A reflective film includes interior layers that selectively reflect light by constructive or destructive interference, the layers extending from a first to a second zone of the film. In the first zone the layers provide a first reflective polarizer characteristic, and in a second zone the layers provide a substantially different reflective polarizer characteristic. The second zone is characterized by at least some of the layers having a reduced birefringence relative to their birefringence in the first zone. In some cases the first reflective polarizer characteristic may have a pass axis that is substantially orthogonal to that of the second reflective polarizer characteristic. The film may have substantially the same thickness in the first and second zones, or a substantially reduced thickness in the second zone relative to the first zone.

Sheeting with composite image that floats

Techniques are described for forming microlens sheeting having composite images that appear to float with respect to the plane of the sheeting. As one example, a method comprises forming one or more images within a sheeting having a surface of microlenses, wherein at least one of the images is a partially complete image, and wherein each of the images is associated with a different one of the microlenses, wherein the microlenses have refractive surfaces that transmit light to positions within the sheeting to produce a plurality of composite images from the images formed within the sheeting sothat each of the composite images appears to float with respect to the plane of the sheeting, and wherein forming the one or more images comprises forming the one or more images such that each of thecomposite images is associated with a different viewing angle range.

Sheeting with composite image that floats

Translucent, transparent, or semi-translucent microlens sheetings with composite images are disclosed, in which a composite image floats above or below the sheeting, or both. The composite image may be two-dimensional or three-dimensional. The sheeting may have at least one layer of material having a surface of microlenses that form one or more images at positions internal to the layer of material, at least one of the images being a partially complete image. Additional layers, such as retroreflective, translucent, transparent, or optical structure layers may also be incorporated into the sheeting.

Multilayer optical films suitable for bi-level internal patterning

A reflective film includes a first optical stack that provides a first reflective characteristic and a second optical stack that provides a second reflective characteristic. The optical stacks also have first and second absorptive characteristics that are suitable to absorptively heat the respective stacks upon exposure to light including a write wavelength while maintaining the structural integrity of the stacks. The absorptive heating can change the first and second reflective characteristics to third and fourth reflective characteristics, respectively. A blocking layer that at least partially blocks light of the write wavelength may also be provided between the optical stacks to permit absorptive heating of any selected one of the optical stacks. The reflective characteristics of the optical stacks can thus be independently modified in any desired patterns by appropriate delivery of light beams that include the write wavelength.

Internally patterned multilayer optical films using spatially selective birefringence reduction

A reflective film includes interior layers arranged to selectively reflect light by constructive or destructive interference, the layers extending from a first zone to a second zone of the film. The film has a first thickness and the interior layers provide a first reflective characteristic in the first zone; the film has a second thickness and the interior layers provide a second reflective characteristic in the second zone. The difference between the first and second reflective characteristics is not substantially attributable to any difference between the first and second thicknesses, which difference may be zero. Rather, the difference in the reflective characteristics is substantially attributable to reduced birefringence of at least some of the interior layers in one zone relative to the other zone. The film may also incorporate absorbing agents to assist in the manufacture or processing of the film. Related methods and articles are also disclosed.

Microlens sheeting with floating image using a shape memory material

A sheeting includes a layer of a shape-memory polymer material having a surface of microlenses, wherein each of the microlenses is associated with one of a plurality of images within the sheeting. The layer of the shape-memory polymer material is responsive to an external stimulus; e.g., temperature, solvent, or moisture; by transitioning from a first state in which an optical property of the microlenses has a first value to a second state in which the optical property of the microlenses has a second value. The microlenses have refractive surfaces that transmit light to positions within the sheeting to produce a composite image from the images formed within the sheeting when the layer of the shape-memory polymer material is in one of the first state and the second state. At least one of the images is a partially complete image, and each of the images is associated with a different one of the microlenses.

Multi-layer articles capable of forming color images and method of forming color images

Multi-layer articles are described that are capable of forming color images. The articles may contain at least two layers, a thermally activatable layer and a blocking layer, or at least three layers with two thermally activatable layers and a blocking layer between. The thermally activatable layers absorb light of a write wavelength and have an absorption threshold for activation. The blocking layer blocks light of the write wavelength at certain incident angles or polarization states and permits light of the write wavelength and certain incident angles or polarization states to pass through. The thermally activatable layers may be layers with a light to heat convertor composition and a color changing compound or they may be a group of layers arranged to change its reflective characteristic upon exposure to light while maintaining the structural integrity of the group of layers.

SCANNED, PULSED ELECTRON-BEAM POLYMERIZATION

A method including: a. coating at least a portion of at least one major surface of a substrate with a polymerizable composition to obtain a coated surface; b. initiating polymerization of the polymerizable composition by scanning a first electron-beam focused on the coated surface across at least a portion of the coated surface, thereby irradiating the coated surface at a frequency selected to achieve an exposure duration of greater than 0 and no greater than 10 microseconds, and a dark time between each exposure duration of at least one millisecond, thereby producing an at least partially polymerized composition. A pressure sensitive adhesive article and a cross-linked silicone release liner made according to the method are also disclosed.

Microlens sheeting with floating image using a shape memory material

A sheeting includes a layer of a shape-memory polymer material having a surface of microlenses, wherein each of the microlenses is associated with one of a plurality of images within the sheeting. The layer of the shape-memory polymer material is responsive to an external stimulus; e.g., temperature, solvent, or moisture; by transitioning from a first state in which an optical property of the microlenses has a first value to a second state in which the optical property of the microlenses has a second value. The microlenses have refractive surfaces that transmit light to positions within the sheeting to produce a composite image from the images formed within the sheeting when the layer of the shape-memory polymer material is in one of the first state and the second state. At least one of the images is a partially complete image, and each of the images is associated with a different one of the microlenses.

MASK PROCESSING USING FILMS WITH SPATIALLY SELECTIVE BIREFRINGENCE REDUCTION

Certain patternable reflective films are used as masks to make other patterned articles, and one or more initial masks can be used to pattern the patternable reflective films. An exemplary patternable reflective film has an absorption characteristic suitable to, upon exposure to a radiant beam, absorptively heat a portion of the film by an amount sufficient to change a first reflective characteristic to a different second reflective characteristic. The change from the first to the second reflective characteristic is attributable to a change in birefringence of one or more layers or materials of the patternable film. In a related article, a mask is attached to such a patternable reflective film. The mask may have opaque portions and light-transmissive portions. Further, the mask may have light-transmissive portions with structures such as focusing elements and/or prismatic elements. 1. A method of making a patterned film , comprising:providing a first film having a first reflective characteristic, the first film also having a first absorption characteristic suitable to, upon exposure to a first radiant beam, absorptively heat a portion of the first film by an amount sufficient to change the first reflective characteristic to a second reflective characteristic by a change in birefringence, and the first film comprising a first group of interior layers arranged to selectively reflect light by constructive or destructive interference to provide the first reflective characteristic;providing a second film having a first detectable characteristic that changes to a different second detectable characteristic upon exposure to a second radiant beam;directing the first radiant beam preferentially at a second zone rather than a first zone of the first film to change the first reflective characteristic to the second reflective characteristic in the second zone by a change in birefringence so as to convert the first film to a patterned mask; andusing the patterned mask to pattern ...

MULTI-LAYER ARTICLES CAPABLE OF FORMING COLOR IMAGES AND METHOD OF FORMING COLOR IMAGES

Multi-layer articles are described that are capable of forming color images. The articles may contain at least two layers, a thermally activatable layer and a blocking layer, or at least three layers with two thermally activatable layers and a blocking layer between. The thermally activatable layers absorb light of a write wavelength and have an absorption threshold for activation. The blocking layer blocks light of the write wavelength at certain incident angles or polarization states and permits light of the write wavelength and certain incident angles or polarization states to pass through. The thermally activatable layers may be layers with a light to heat convertor composition and a color changing compound or they may be a group of layers arranged to change its reflective characteristic upon exposure to light while maintaining the structural integrity of the group of layers 1. A multi-layer article comprising:a first, interior, thermally activatable layer, wherein the first thermally activatable layer comprises a first light to heat convertor composition and a first color changing compound, and wherein the light to heat convertor composition absorbs light of a write wavelength and the first activatable layer has a first absorption threshold for activation;a second, interior, thermally activatable layer, wherein the second thermally activatable layer comprises a second light to heat convertor composition and a second color changing compound and wherein the light to heat convertor composition absorbs light of the write wavelength and the second activatable layer has a second absorption threshold for activation, wherein the second absorption threshold is lower than the first absorption threshold; anda first blocking layer disposed between the first and second internal thermally activatable layers, the first blocking layer being adapted to at least partially block light of the write wavelength.2. The multi-layer article of claim 1 , wherein the first blocking layer ...

MULTI-LAYER ARTICLES CAPABLE OF FORMING COLOR IMAGES AND METHODS OF FORMING COLOR IMAGES

Multi-layer articles are described that are capable of forming color images. The articles include at least six layers, four thermally activatable layers (layers 1-4) and two blocking layers (layer 5 and 6). The layers are arranged such that layer 5 is disposed between layers 1 and 2 and layer 6 is disposed between layers 3 and 4. Thermally activatable layers 1 and 2 are activatable upon exposure to light of a first write wavelength, and blocking layer 5 is adapted to at least partially block light of the first write wavelength. Thermally activatable layers 3 and 4 are activatable upon exposure to light of a second write wavelength, and blocking layer 6 is adapted to at least partially block light of the second write wavelength. At least one, and possibly all of the thermally activatable layers include a light to heat convertor composition and a color changing compound. Some of the thermally activatable layers may be a group of layers arranged to selectively reflect light by constructive or destructive interference to provide a first reflective characteristic, the group of layers also having a first absorption characteristic suitable to, upon exposure to light comprising a write wavelength, absorptively heat the first group of layers by an amount sufficient to change the first reflective characteristic to a second reflective characteristic while maintaining the structural integrity of the group of layers. 1. A multi-layer article comprising:a first, interior, thermally activatable layer, wherein the first thermally activatable layer comprises a first light to heat convertor composition and a first color changing compound, and wherein the light to heat convertor composition absorbs light of a first write wavelength and the first activatable layer has a first absorption threshold for activation;a second, interior, thermally activatable layer, wherein the second thermally activatable layer comprises a second light to heat convertor composition and a second color ...

PERSONALIZED SECURITY ARTICLE AND METHODS OF AUTHENTICATING A SECURITY ARTICLE AND VERIFYING A BEARER OF A SECURITY ARTICLE

Security articles and methods of personalizing security articles. Specifically, this disclosure relates to security articles that contain a security feature that is a composite image, where the composite image includes laser-personalized security information. 1. A personalized security article , comprising: 'at least a partial layer of microlenses, the layer having first and second sides and a layer of material disposed adjacent the first side of the partial layer of microlenses; an at least partially complete image formed in the material associated with each of a plurality of the microlenses, wherein the image contrasts with the material;', 'a sheeting comprisinga first indicia;a second indicia;a first composite image, provided by at least one of the individual images, that appears to the unaided eye to float above, below, or in the sheeting, or any combination thereof; anda second composite image, provided by at least one of the individual images, that appears to the unaided eye to float above, below, or in the sheeting, or any combination thereof;wherein the first composite image is viewable at a first angle, and wherein the first composite image is related to the first printed indicia; andwherein the second composite image is viewable at a second angle, and wherein the second composite image is related to the second printed indicia.2. The personalized security article of claim 1 , wherein the sheeting includes a first portion claim 1 , wherein the first composite image is viewable at the first angle at the first portion claim 1 , and the second composite image is viewable at the second angle at the first portion.3. The personalized security article of claim 1 , wherein the first composite image is a personalized composite image claim 1 , and the first indicia is a personalized indicia.4. The personalized security article of claim 3 , wherein the security article is authenticated by comparing the first personalized indicia and the first personalized composite ...

Effective Media Retarder Films with Spatially Selective Birefringence Reduction

A retarder film provides a first light retardation and can be heat processed in one or more selected areas to provide a second light retardation in the selected area(s). The retarder film may have an absorption characteristic such that the heat processing can be carried out by selectively exposing the film to a suitable radiant beam. The retarder film is composed of a stack of contiguous ultrathin layers configured to provide an effective optical medium for visible light. Visible light propagates through the stack as an effective medium having effective refractive indices along principal x-, y-, and z-axes. At least some of the ultrathin layers possess intrinsic birefringence, and the effective indices of the stack are functions of the intrinsic refractive indices of the constituent ultrathin layers. The heat processing is carried out so that the ultrathin layer stack structural integrity is not substantially altered in the processed area(s). 1. An optical article , comprising:a retarder film providing a first light retardation and comprising an effective medium stack of contiguous ultrathin layers configured to provide an effective optical medium for visible light, the ultrathin layers arranged into a plurality of optical repeat units each of which has an optical thickness of less than 190 nm, the ultrathin layers including different first and second ultrathin layers, the first ultrathin layers comprising a first polymer material exhibiting a first intrinsic birefringence, and the second ultrathin layers comprising a second polymer material;wherein the retarder film has a first absorption characteristic suitable to, upon exposure to a first radiant beam, absorptively heat the effective medium stack by an amount sufficient to change the first light retardation to a second light retardation, different from the first light retardation, while maintaining a structural integrity of the effective medium stack.2. The article of claim 1 , wherein the stack of contiguous ...

PATTERNED ARTICLE INCLUDING ELECTRICALLY CONDUCTIVE ELEMENTS

A patterned article includes a unitary polymeric layer and a plurality of electrically conductive elements embedded at least partially in the unitary polymeric layer. Each electrically conductive element includes a conductive seed layer having a top major surface and an opposite bottom major surface in direct contact with the unitary polymeric layer, and includes a metallic body disposed on the top major surface of the conductive seed layer. The metallic body has a bottom major surface and at least one sidewall. The bottom major surface contacts the conductive seed layer. Each sidewall is in direct contact with the unitary polymeric layer and extends from the bottom major surface of the metallic body toward or to, but not past, a top major surface of the unitary polymeric layer. The conductive elements may be electrically isolated from one another. Processes for making the patterned article are described. 1. A patterned article comprising:a unitary polymeric layer; and a conductive seed layer having a top major surface and an opposite bottom major surface in direct contact with the unitary polymeric layer; and', 'a metallic body disposed on the top major surface of the conductive seed layer, the metallic body having a bottom major surface and at least one sidewall, the bottom major surface contacting the conductive seed layer, each sidewall being in direct contact with the unitary polymeric layer and extending from the bottom major surface of the metallic body toward or to, but not past, a top major surface of the unitary polymeric layer, wherein at least some of the electrically conductive elements comprise a micropattern of conductive traces having an open area fraction in a range of 80% to 99.95%., 'a plurality of electrically conductive elements embedded at least partially in the unitary polymeric layer and being electrically isolated from one another, each electrically conductive element comprising2. The patterned article of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of ...

RADAR-OPTICAL FUSION ARTICLE AND SYSTEM

A radar-optical fusion article for attachment to a substrate is described. The radar-optical fusion article includes a first retroreflective layer which is configured to retroreflect at least a portion of light having a wavelength in a range from about 400 nm to about 2500 nm. The radar-optical fusion article includes a second retroreflective layer disposed adjacent to the first retroreflective layer. The second retroreflective layer is configured to retroreflect at least a portion of an electromagnetic wave having a frequency in the range from about 0.5 GHz to about 100 GHz. 1. A radar-optical fusion article for attachment to a substrate , the radar-optical fusion article comprising:a first retroreflective layer configured to retroreflect at least a portion of light having a wavelength in a range from about 400 nm to about 2500 nm; anda second retroreflective layer disposed adjacent to the first retroreflective layer, the second retroreflective layer configured to retroreflect at least a portion of an electromagnetic wave having a frequency in a range from about 0.5 GHz to about 100 GHz.2. The radar-optical fusion article of claim 1 , wherein the retroreflected light from the first retroreflective layer has a wavelength in a range from about 700 nm to about 2500 nm.3. The radar-optical fusion article of claim 1 , wherein the retroreflected electromagnetic wave from the second retroreflective layer has a frequency in the range from about 75 GHz to about 81 GHz.4. The radar-optical fusion article of claim 1 , wherein the retroreflected light from the first retroreflective layer comprises a light signature associated with the substrate.5. The radar-optical fusion article of claim 4 , wherein the light signature is based on at least one of a spatial pattern claim 4 , a wavelength-selective signature claim 4 , an angle-dependent signature and a polarization-specific signature.6. The radar-optical fusion article of claim 4 , wherein the light signature is indicative of ...

Optical Assembly

An optical assembly including an optical element insert molded directly onto an optical stack is provided. The optical stack includes an optical film and may include a liner with the optical film being disposed between the optical element and the liner. The liner, if included, is removable from the optical film without substantial damage to the optical film. An outermost layer of the optical film may be diffusion bonded to a major surface of the optical element. 115-. (canceled)16. An optical assembly , comprising an optical element insert molded directly onto an optical stack , the optical stack comprising an integrally formed optical film and a liner , the optical film being disposed between the optical element and the liner , the optical film comprising a plurality of alternating polymeric layers reflecting or transmitting light primarily by optical interference , a bonding of the optical film to the optical element being stronger than an interlayer bonding between at least one pair of immediately adjacent layers in the optical film ,wherein the liner is removable from the optical film without substantial damage to the optical film.17. The optical assembly of claim 16 , wherein the optical element is injection insert molded directly onto the optical stack.18. The optical assembly of claim 17 , wherein a melting temperature of the optical element is substantially larger than a glass transition temperature of the optical film.19. The optical assembly of claim 17 , wherein a melting temperature of the optical element and a melting temperature of the optical film differ by less than 10° C.20. The optical assembly of claim 16 , wherein each location over at least about 80% of a total area of the optical film has a reflectance greater than about 80% for normally incident light having a same predetermined wavelength and a same first polarization state.21. The optical assembly of claim 20 , wherein each location over at least about 80% of the total area of the optical ...

MULTILAYER OPTICAL FILMS SUITABLE FOR BI-LEVEL INTERNAL PATTERNING

A reflective film includes a first optical stack that provides a first reflective characteristic and a second optical stack that provides a second reflective characteristic. The optical stacks also have first and second absorptive characteristics that are suitable to absorptively heat the respective stacks upon exposure to light including a write wavelength while maintaining the structural integrity of the stacks. The absorptive heating can change the first and second reflective characteristics to third and fourth reflective characteristics, respectively. A blocking layer that at least partially blocks light of the write wavelength may also be provided between the optical stacks to permit absorptive heating of any selected one of the optical stacks. The reflective characteristics of the optical stacks can thus be independently modified in any desired patterns by appropriate delivery of light beams that include the write wavelength. 1. A patterned multilayer optical film , comprising:a first group of interior layers arranged to selectively reflect light by constructive or destructive interference, the layers of the first group extending from a first zone to a second zone of the film; anda second group of interior layers arranged to selectively reflect light by constructive or destructive interference, the layers of the second group extending from the first zone to a third zone of the film;wherein the first group of layers provides a first reflective characteristic in the first zone and a third reflective characteristic different from the first reflective characteristic in the second zone;wherein the second group of layers provides a second reflective characteristic in the first zone and a fourth reflective characteristic different from the second reflective characteristic in the third zone; andwherein the second group of layers provides the second reflective characteristic in at least a portion of the second zone.2. The film of claim 1 , wherein the first group of ...

INDEPENDENTLY PROCESSING PLURALITY OF REGIONS OF INTEREST

In some examples, a method includes determining, by a computing device, a plurality of regions of interest of an image for independently processing relative to a plane of interest; determining, by the computing device and for respective regions of interest of the plurality of regions of interest, a distance from objects within the respective regions of interest to the plane of interest; and processing, by the computing device and independently for the respective regions of interest, the respective regions of interest of the image based on the determined distance from the objects to the plane of interest. 1. A method comprising:determining, by a computing device, a plurality of regions of interest of an image for independently processing relative to a plane of interest;determining, by the computing device and for respective regions of interest of the plurality of regions of interest, a distance from objects within the respective regions of interest to the plane of interest; andprocessing, by the computing device and independently for the respective regions of interest, the respective regions of interest of the image based on the determined distance from the objects to the plane of interest.25-. (canceled)6. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:determining, prior to determining the plurality of regions of interest, a distance map that includes respective distances, for one or more portions of the image, from objects within the one or more portions to the plane of interest;wherein determining the plurality of regions of interest comprises determining the plurality of regions of interest from the one or more potions of the distance map; andwherein determining the distance from the objects within the respective regions of interest to the plane of interest comprises determining the distance based on the respective distances of the distance map for the one or more portions of the image.7. The method of claim 6 , wherein determining the distance map comprises applying ...

INDEPENDENTLY PROCESSING PLURALITY OF REGIONS OF INTEREST

In some examples, a method includes determining, by a computing device, a plurality of regions of interest of an image for independently processing relative to a plane of interest; determining, by the computing device and for respective regions of interest of the plurality of regions of interest, a distance from objects within the respective regions of interest to the plane of interest; and processing, by the computing device and independently for the respective regions of interest, the respective regions of interest of the image based on the determined distance from the objects to the plane of interest. 1. A method comprising:receiving, by a computing device, an image captured by a camera or via a platen of an apparatus that includes the computing device;determining, by a computing device, a plurality of regions of interest within the captured image; determining, by the computing device, for each respective region of interest of the plurality of regions of interest, a respective distance from one or more objects within the respective region of interest to the plane of interest; and', 'processing, by the computing device, each respective region of interest independently of any other regions of interest included in the plurality of regions of interest, based on the respective distance from the one or more objects of each respective region of interest to the plane of interest., 'processing, by the computing device, the captured image relative to a plane of interest that is defined by at least one of an image plane of the camera or by the platen of the apparatus that includes the computing device by2. The method of claim 1 , wherein processing the captured image relative to the plane of interest comprises rescaling one or more of the respective regions of interest.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein rescaling the one or more of the respective regions of interest comprises downscaling the one or more of the respective regions of interest to a predetermined resolution.4. ...

MASK PROCESSING USING FILMS WITH SPATIALLY SELECTIVE BIREFRINGENCE REDUCTION

Certain patternable reflective films are used as masks to make other patterned articles, and one or more initial masks can be used to pattern the patternable reflective films. An exemplary patternable reflective film has an absorption characteristic suitable to, upon exposure to a radiant beam, absorptively heat a portion of the film by an amount sufficient to change a first reflective characteristic to a different second reflective characteristic. The change from the first to the second reflective characteristic is attributable to a change in birefringence of one or more layers or materials of the patternable film. In a related article, a mask is attached to such a patternable reflective film. The mask may have opaque portions and light-transmissive portions. Further, the mask may have light-transmissive portions with structures such as focusing elements and/or prismatic elements. 119-. (canceled)20. A composite article comprising:a film mask including a first group of layers arranged to extend continuously from a first zone to a second zone and selectively reflect light by constructive or destructive interference to provide a first reflective characteristic in the first zone and a second reflective characteristic in the second zone, the film mask having a first absorbing characteristic suitable to, upon exposure to a first radiant beam, absorptively heat a portion of the film mask by an amount of sufficient to change the first reflective characteristic to the second reflective characteristic, wherein the change from the first reflective characteristic to the second reflective characteristic is substantially attributable to a change in birefringence of at least some of the first group of layers of the film mask; anda patternable film beneath the film mask and connected to the film mask in a layered arrangement, the patternable film having a first detectable characteristic at a selected portion that changes to a different second detectable characteristic upon ...

SECURITY ELEMENT WITH A METALLIZED STRUCTURED SURFACE

A security element, including: a substrate having a first structured major surface and a second structured major surface; and a first metal layer coated on the first structured major surface, wherein the transparency of the first metal layer is between 10% and 90%; and a second metal layer coated on the second structured major surface. 1. A security element , comprising:a substrate having a first structured major surface and a second structured major surface; anda first metal layer coated on the first structured major surface, wherein the transparency of the first metal layer is between 10% and 90%; anda second metal layer coated on the second structured major surface.2. The security element of . wherein the transparency of the second metal layer is less than 50%.3. The security element of claim 1 , wherein the first or second metal layer is a continuous monolayer.4. The security element of claim 1 , wherein the first or second metal layer is not patterned.5. The security element of claim 1 , wherein the first or second structured major surface comprises a plurality of features.6. The security element of claim 5 , wherein the plurality of features are nanoscale features.7. The security element of claim 5 , wherein the plurality of features are randomly arrayed features.8. The security element of claim 7 , wherein the randomly arrayed features are randomly arrayed nanoscale features.9. The security element of claim 5 , wherein the plurality of features are orderly arrayed features.10. The security element of claim 5 , wherein the plurality of features comprise microscale features and nanoscale features.11. The security element of claim 5 , wherein the plurality of features comprise ordered microscale features and randomly arrayed nanoscale features.12. The security element of claim 10 , wherein the nanoscale features are formed on the microscale features.13. The security element of claim 1 , further comprising a binder.14. The security element of claim 1 , wherein ...

Infrared-Reflecting Optically Transparent Assembly and Method of Making the Same

A method of making an infrared-reflecting optically transparent assembly comprises: coating a curable composition onto a major surface of an optically transparent thermoplastic polymer film; at least partially curing the curable composition, which may be optionally at least partially dried, to provide a thermoformable composite film; and laminating the thermoformable composite film to an infrared-reflecting multilayer optical film to provide the infrared-reflecting optically transparent assembly. The curable composition comprises urethane (meth)acrylate compound, (meth)acrylate monomer, and silicone (meth)acrylate. The infrared-reflecting optically transparent assembly and methods of including it in an infrared-reflecting lens assembly are also disclosed. 120-. (canceled)21. A method of making an infrared-reflecting optically transparent assembly , the method comprising steps: a) 70 to 95 weight percent of urethane (meth)acrylate compound having an average (meth)acrylate functionality of 3 to 9, based on the total weight of components a) to d);', 'b) 2 to 20 weight percent (meth)acrylate monomer having a (meth)acrylate functionality of 1 to 2, based on the total weight of components a) to d), wherein the (meth)acrylate monomer is not a urethane (meth)acrylate compound;', 'c) 0.5 to 2 weight percent of silicone (meth)acrylate, based on the total weight of components a) to d);', 'd) optional effective amount of photoinitiator; and', 'e) optional solvent;, 'i) providing a curable composition comprising componentsii) coating the curable composition onto a major surface of an optically transparent thermoplastic polymer film;iii) optionally at least partially drying the curable composition to provide an at least partially dried curable composition;iv) at least partially curing the curable composition or the at least partially dried curable composition to provide a thermoformable composite film; andv) laminating the thermoformable composite film to an infrared-reflecting ...

Mask processing using films with spatially selective birefringence reduction

Certain patternable reflective films are used as masks to make other patterned articles, and one or more initial masks can be used to pattern the patternable reflective films. An exemplary patternable reflective film has an absorption characteristic suitable to, upon exposure to a radiant beam, absorptively heat a portion of the film by an amount sufficient to change a first reflective characteristic to a different second reflective characteristic. The change from the first to the second reflective characteristic is attributable to a change in birefringence of one or more layers or materials of the patternable film. In a related article, a mask is attached to such a patternable reflective film. The mask may have opaque portions and light-transmissive portions. Further, the mask may have light-transmissive portions with structures such as focusing elements and/or prismatic elements.

Respirator Having Optically Active Exhalation Valve

Various embodiments of a respirator () that includes a harness (), a mask body (), and an exhalation valve () are disclosed. The exhalation valve () can include a valve seat () and a flexible flap () that is in engagement with the valve seat. The flexible flap can have one or more materials that can cause the flap to flash () when moving from a closed position to an open position or vice versa. The flashing valve can make it easier for a user to ascertain whether the valve is operating properly. 1. A respirator that comprises:a harness;a mask body; and a valve seat; and', 'a flexible flap that is in engagement with the valve seat, the flexible flap comprising one or more materials that cause the flap to flash when moving from a closed position to an open position or vice versa., 'an exhalation valve that comprises2. The respirator of claim 1 , wherein the exhalation valve further comprises a valve cover that is sufficiently transparent to enable the flashing to be seen through a solid portion of the valve cover.3. The respirator of claim 1 , wherein the flexible flap exhibits band shifting.4. The respirator of claim 1 , wherein the flexible flap comprises a specularly reflecting film.5. The respirator of claim 1 , wherein the flexible flap has indicia thereon created by altering the specular reflection of the flexible flap at selected areas without distorting or warping the flexible flap.6. The respirator of claim 1 , wherein the flexible flap comprises a band shifting film.7. The respirator of claim 6 , wherein the band shifting film is attached to an outer surface of the flexible flap.8. The respirator of claim 6 , wherein the band shifting film comprises a multilayer polymeric film.9. The respirator of claim 8 , wherein the multilayer polymeric film comprises a colored mirror.10. The respirator of claim 8 , wherein the multilayer polymeric film comprises a polarizer.11. The respirator of claim 1 , wherein the flexible flap comprises a diffusely reflective optical ...

Optical assembly with encapsulated multilayer optical film and methods of making same

An optical assembly ( 200 ) including an encapsulated multilayer optical film ( 250 ). Methods of making and using such optical assemblies also are disclosed.

Security element with a metallized structured surface

A security element, including: a substrate having a first structured major surface and a second structured major surface; and a first metal layer coated on the first structured major surface, wherein the transparency of the first metal layer is between 10% and 90%; and a second metal layer coated on the second structured major surface.

Laser-personalizable security articles

Laser-personalizable security articles include multi-layer security documents. The multi-layer security document includes an optically transparent cover layer, a composite image and an imagable layer adjacent to the cover layer. The first surface of the cover layer is at least partially a microstructured surface, where the microstructured surface forms microlenses or a lenticular surface. The composite image is made by a collection of complete or partial images viewed through the microstructured surface of the cover layer. The composite image is located on or within the second surface of the cover layer. The imagable layer is a laser imagable layer. When imaged, a personalized second composite three dimensional image is created on or in the imagable layer.

Surface modification of semicrystalline polymers

Semicrystalline polymers can have predetermined amounts of their surfaces rendered quasi-amorphous by irradiation. Polymer surfaces which are so modified can display enhanced ability to accept bonding to other materials.

A composite used for light control or privacy

A composite including a polymeric film having a first generally planar major surface and an opposite second major surface defined by a multiplicity of elongate parallel contiguous ridge portions. The ridge portions each have a generally triangular cross section and elongate obscured and transmitting second major surface portions intersecting at the apex of the ridge with the obscured second major surface portion being on the side of the ridge generally facing a first end of the sheet and the transmitting second major surface portions being on the side of the ridge portions adjacent a second end of the sheet. The film can provide visual transmission between its first major surface and the transmitting second major surface portions while coatings along the obscured second major surface portions prevent viewing of visual images through the film; whereas the composite can also provide light transmission between the first major surface and the transmitting second major surface portions, while the coatings along the obscured second major surface portions restrict light transmission.

SURFACE MODIFICATION OF SEMICRISTALLINE POLYMERS.

POLIMEROS SEMICRISTALINOS PUEDEN TENER CANTIDADES PREDETERMINADAS DE SUS SUPERFICIES CASI AMORFAS A LA RADIACION. LAS SUPERFICIES POLIMERAS QUE ESTAN MODIFICADAS DE ESTE MODO PUEDEN MOSTRAR CAPACIDAD MEJORADA PARA ACEPTAR UNION A MATERIALES.

Surface modification of semicrystalline polymers

The invention relates to a process for modifying the surface of a semicrystalline polymer which process comprises irradiating at least one surface of a semicrystalline polymer composition with radiation which is absorbed by said composition, controlling the intensity and fluence of said radiation exposure so that semicrystalline polymer on said surface is melted and there is ablation or volatilization of less than 1% by weight of the total weight of the polymer within regions of said polymer which are melted, and allowing said melted polymer to cool at a rate which will form a quasi-amorphous polymeric area on said at least one surface, said quasi-amorphous polymeric area having a thickness of at least 5 nm and a polymeric article comprising a semicrystalline polymer having on at least one surface thereof areas having thicknesses of at least 5 nm of the same polymer in a quasi-amorphous state. Semicrystalline polymers of the articles thus can have predetermined amounts of their surfaces rendered quasi-amorphous by irradiation. Polymer surfaces which are so modified can display enhanced ability to accept bonding to other materials.

Optical assembly with protective coating

An optical assembly including an optical element insert molded directly onto an optical stack is provided. The optical stack includes an optical film and may include a liner with the optical film being disposed between the optical element and the liner. The liner, if included, is removable from the optical film without substantial damage to the optical film. An outermost layer of the optical film may be diffusion bonded to a major surface of the optical element. The optical film includes a protective coating having an average thickness of no more than 30 micrometers. The protective coating includes an at least partially cured composition. The composition includes 70 to 96 weight percent of urethane (meth)acrylate compound having an average (meth)acrylate functionality of 2 to 9.5, and 2 to 20 weight percent of (meth)acrylate monomer having a (meth)acrylate functionality of 1 to 2.

Topographical selective patterns

TOPOGRAPHICAL SELECTIVE PATTERNS Abstract of the Disclosure A maskless process generates a patterned coating on a polymeric substrate, wherein the pattern is at least partially defined by the substrate topography. The process uses a high intensity/high fluence energy source to strike a coated substrate, thus selectively removing a portion of the coating. The amount and area of the coating removed is dependent on the substrate topography and the applied energy, and this forms a pattern of residual coating material on the substrate. 48475POR.APP

Multi-layer articles capable of forming color images and methods of forming color images

Respirator having optically active exhalation valve

Various embodiments of a respirator (10) that includes a harness (13, 16), a mask body (12), and an exhalation valve (14) are disclosed. The exhalation valve (14) can include a valve seat (20) and a flexible flap (22) that is in engagement with the valve seat. The flexible flap can have one or more materials that can cause the flap to flash (26) when moving from a closed position to an open position or vice versa. The flashing valve can make it easier for a user to ascertain whether the valve is operating properly.

Laser-personalizable security articles

Laser-personalizable security articles include multi-layer security documents. The multi-layer security document includes an optically transparent cover layer, a composite image and an imagable layer adjacent to the cover layer. The first surface of the cover layer is at least partially a microstructured surface, where the microstructured surface forms microlenses or a lenticular surface. The composite image is made by a collection of complete or partial images viewed through the microstructured surface of the cover layer. The composite image is located on or within the second surface of the cover layer. The imagable layer is a laser imagable layer. When imaged, a personalized second composite three dimensional image is created on or in the imagable layer.

Internally patterned multilayer optical films with multiple birefringent layers

Patterned article including electrically conductive elements

A patterned article includes a unitary polymeric layer and a plurality of electrically conductive elements embedded at least partially in the unitary polymeric layer. Each electrically conductive element includes a conductive seed layer having a top major surface and an opposite bottom major surface in direct contact with the unitary polymeric layer, and includes a metallic body disposed on the top major surface of the conductive seed layer. The metallic body has a bottom major surface and at least one sidewall. The bottom major surface contacts the conductive seed layer. Each sidewall is in direct contact with the unitary polymeric layer and extends from the bottom major surface of the metallic body toward or to, but not past, a top major surface of the unitary polymeric layer. The conductive elements may be electrically isolated from one another. Processes for making the patterned article are described.

Respirator having optically active exhalation valve

Various embodiments of a respirator (10) that includes a harness (13, 16), a mask body (12), and an exhalation valve (14) are disclosed. The exhalation valve (14) can include a valve seat (20) and a flexible flap (22) that is in engagement with the valve seat. The flexible flap can have one or more materials that can cause the flap to flash (26) when moving from a closed position to an open position or vice versa. The flashing valve can make it easier for a user to ascertain whether the valve is operating properly.

A polymer with crosslinked surface zones

A personalized security article and methods of authenticating a security article and verifying a bearer of a security article

Security articles and methods of personalizing security articles. Specifically, this disclosure relates to security articles that contain a security feature that is a composite image, where the composite image includes laser-personalized security information.

Polymeric film with reduced surface friction

Semicrystalline polymers can have predetermined amounts of their surfaces rendered amorphous by irradiation. Further treatment of these polymer surfaces which have been so modified can produce surfaces with reduced coefficients of friction. More particularly, the invention provides a process for modifying the surface of a semicrystalline polymer which process comprises irradiating, at a fluence of from 3 to 25 mJ/cm2/pulse and a pulse width of from 10 nanoseconds to 100 microseconds, at least one surface of a semicrystalline polymer composition with radiation which is absorbed by said composition, controlling the intensity and fluence of said radiation exposure so that semi-crystalline polymer on said surface is melted, allowing said melted polymer to cool at a rate which will form a quasi-amorphous polymeric area on said at least one surface, and then exposing said surface layer to a material which promotes crystallization within said quasi-amorphous area or exposes the underlying semicrystalline polymer.

Internally patterned multilayer optical films with multiple birefringent layers

A reflective film includes interior layers that selectively reflect light by constructive or destructive interference, the layers extending from a first to a second zone of the film. The interior layers include a first set of layers composed of a first material and a second set of layers composed of a different second material. The first and second sets of layers are both birefringent in the first zone, but at least some of the layers have reduced birefringence in the second zone. The reduced birefringence produces a second reflective characteristic in the second zone that differs from a first reflective characteristic in the first zone, this difference not being substantially attributable to any thickness difference between the first and second zones. The film may also incorporate absorbing agents to assist in the manufacture or processing of the film. Related methods and articles are also disclosed.

Adhesive bonding to polymer surfaces

The present invention relates to a process of bonding a polymeric article comprising a semicrystalline polymer having on at least one surface thereof areas having thicknesses of at least 5 nm of the same polymer in a quasi-amorphous state and having an adhesive on said at least one surface, said process comprising contacting said adhesive material to another surface under conditions of heat, pressure or other applied energy sufficient to cause bonding of said adhesive to said another surface and to articles bondable by the process. Semicrystalline polymers of the articles thus can have predetermined amounts of their surfaces rendered quasi-amorphous by irradiation. Polymer surfaces which are so modified can display enhanced ability to accept bonding to other materials, particularly adhesives.

Ablative flashlamp imaging

The present invention includes a method of creating a shaped image in a workpiece using a flashlamp, the method comprising positioning a template proximate the workpiece and directing radiation emitted by the flashlamp during a short pulse of less than approximately 100 µsec through the template towardthe workpiece.

MODIFICATION OF THE SURFACE OF SEMICRISTALLINE POLYMERS.

Microlens sheeting with floating image using a shape memory material

A sheeting includes a layer of a shape-memory polymer material having a surface of microlenses, wherein each of the microlenses is associated with one of a plurality of images within the sheeting. The layer of the shape-memory polymer material is responsive to an external stimulus; e.g., temperature, solvent, or moisture; by transitioning from a first state in which an optical property of the microlenses has a first value to a second state in which the optical property of the microlenses has a second value. The microlenses have refractive surfaces that transmit light to positions within the sheeting to produce a composite image from the images formed within the sheeting when the layer of the shape-memory polymer material is in one of the first state and the second state. At least one of the images is a partially complete image, and each of the images is associated with a different one of the microlenses.

A customized security article and methods to authenticate a security article and verify a security article carrier

Multilayer optical films having side-by-side mirror/polarizer zones

A reflective film includes interior layers that selectively reflect light by constructive or destructive interference, the layers extending from a first to a second zone of the film. In the first zone, the layers operate substantially as a reflective polarizer; in the second zone they operate substantially as a mirror. The layers may thus provide a first reflective characteristic in the first zone wherein normally incident light of one polarization state is substantially reflected and normally incident light of an orthogonal polarization state is substantially transmitted, and a second reflective characteristic in the second zone wherein normally incident light of any polarization state is substantially reflected. The film may have a first thickness in the first zone that is substantially the same as a second thickness in the second zone. Alternatively, the second thickness may be substantially less than the first thickness. Related methods, articles, and systems are also disclosed.

Effective media retarder films with spatially selective birefringence reduction

A retarder film provides a first light retardation and can be heat processed in one or more selected areas to provide a second light retardation in the selected area(s). The retarder film may have an absorption characteristic such that the heat processing can be carried out by selectively exposing the film to a suitable radiant beam. The retarder film is composed of a stack of contiguous ultrathin layers configured to provide an effective optical medium for visible light. Visible light propagates through the stack as an effective medium having effective refractive indices along principal x-, y-, and z-axes. At least some of the ultrathin layers possess intrinsic birefringence, and the effective indices of the stack are functions of the intrinsic refractive indices of the constituent ultrathin layers. The heat processing is carried out so that the ultrathin layer stack structural integrity is not substantially altered in the processed area(s).

Sheeting with composite image that floats

Translucent, transparent, or semi-translucent microlens sheetings with composite images are disclosed, in which a composite image floats above or below the sheeting, or both. The composite image may be two-dimensional or three-dimensional. The sheeting may have at least one layer of material having a surface of microlenses that form one or more images at positions internal to the layer of material, at least one of the images being a partially complete image. Additional layers, such as retroreflective, translucent, transparent, or optical structure layers may also be incorporated into the sheeting.

Respirator having optically active exhalation valve

Various embodiments of a respirator (10) that includes a harness (13, 16), a mask body (12), and an exhalation valve (14) are disclosed. The exhalation valve (14) can include a valve seat (20) and a flexible flap (22) that is in engagement with the valve seat. The flexible flap can have one or more materials that can cause the flap to flash (26) when moving from a closed position to an open position or vice versa. The flashing valve can make it easier for a user to ascertain whether the valve is operating properly.

Topographical selective patterns

Multilayer optical films having side-by-side polarizer/polarizer zones

Mask processing using films with spatially selective birefringence reduction

Certain patternable reflective films are used as masks to make other patterned articles, and one or more initial masks can be used to pattern the patternable reflective films. An exemplary patternable reflective film has an absorption characteristic suitable to, upon exposure to a radiant beam, absorptively heat a portion of the film by an amount sufficient to change a first reflective characteristic to a different second reflective characteristic. The change from the first to the second reflective characteristic is attributable to a change in birefringence of one or more layers or materials of the patternable film. In a related article, a mask is attached to such a patternable reflective film. The mask may have opaque portions and light-transmissive portions. Further, the mask may have light-transmissive portions with structures such as focusing elements and/or prismatic elements.

Multilayer optical films suitable for bi-level internal patterning

multilayer article and image generation method

Multi-layer articles capable of forming color images

Multi-layer articles capable of forming color images are provided. The articles include a multi-layer construction with at least two layers in which at least one of the layers includes a thermally activatable composition. The thermally activatable composition includes a non-linear light to heat converter composition and a color forming compound. Upon activation with a light source an image forms.

Respirator having optically active exhalation valve

Various embodiments of a respirator (10) that includes a harness (13, 16), a mask body (12), and an exhalation valve (14) are disclosed. The exhalation valve (14) can include a valve seat (20) and a flexible flap (22) that is in engagement with the valve seat. The flexible flap can have one or more materials that can cause the flap to flash (26) when moving from a closed position to an open position or vice versa. The flashing valve can make it easier for a user to ascertain whether the valve is operating properly.

A composite used for light control or privacy

A composite including a polymeric film having a first generally planar major surface and an opposite second major surface defined by a multiplicity of elongate parallel contiguous ridge portions. The ridge portions each have a generally triangular cross section and elongate obscured and transmitting second major surface portions intersecting at the apex of the ridge with the obscured second major surface portion being on the side of the ridge generally facing a first end of the sheet and the transmitting second major surface portions being on the side of the ridge portions adjacent a second end of the sheet. The film can provide visual transmission between its first major surface and the transmitting second major surface portions while coatings along the obscured second major surface portions prevent viewing of visual images through the film; whereas the composite can also provide light transmission between the first major surface and the transmitting second major surface portions, while the coatings along the obscured second major surface portions restrict light transmission.

Mask processing using films with spatially selective birefringence reduction

Certain patternable reflective films are used as masks to make other patterned articles, and one or more initial masks can be used to pattern the patternable reflective films. An exemplary patternable reflective film has an absorption characteristic suitable to, upon exposure to a radiant beam, absorptively heat a portion of the film by an amount sufficient to change a first reflective characteristic to a different second reflective characteristic. The change from the first to the second reflective characteristic is attributable to a change in birefringence of one or more layers or materials of the patternable film. In a related article, a mask is attached to such a patternable reflective film. The mask may have opaque portions and light-transmissive portions. Further, the mask may have light-transmissive portions with structures such as focusing elements and/or prismatic elements.

Ablative imaging by proximity lithography

The present invention includes a method of creating a shaped image in a workpiece using a high energy source, with the method comprising positioning a layer proximate the workpiece such that the layer prevents debris from the workpiece from dispersing, and directing radiation from the high energy source through the layer to the workpiece, the layer substantially transparent to radiation emitted by the high energy source such that the high energy source is capable of forming the shaped image.

Microlens sheeting with floating image using a shape memory material

Infrared-reflecting optically transparent assembly and method of making the same

A method of making an infrared-reflecting optically transparent assembly comprises: coating a curable composition onto a major surface of an optically transparent thermoplastic polymer film; at least partially curing the curable composition, which may be optionally at least partially dried, to provide a thermoformable composite film; and laminating the thermoformable composite film to an infrared-reflecting multilayer optical film to provide the infrared-reflecting optically transparent assembly. The curable composition comprises urethane (meth)acrylate compound, (meth)acrylate monomer, and silicone (meth)acrylate. The infrared-reflecting optically transparent assembly and methods of including it in an infrared-reflecting lens assembly are also disclosed.

Mask processing using films with spatially selective birefringence reduction

Certain patternable reflective films are used as masks to make other patterned articles, and one or more initial masks can be used to pattern the patternable reflective films. An exemplary patternable reflective film has an absorption characteristic suitable to, upon exposure to a radiant beam, absorptively heat a portion of the film by an amount sufficient to change a first reflective characteristic to a different second reflective characteristic. The change from the first to the second reflective characteristic is attributable to a change in birefringence of one or more layers or materials of the patternable film. In a related article, a mask is attached to such a patternable reflective film. The mask may have opaque portions and light-transmissive portions. Further, the mask may have light-transmissive portions with structures such as focusing elements and/or prismatic elements.

Interference films having acrylamide layer and method of making same

A method for forming a color shifting film on a support, the film comprising a reflective stack disposed adjacent to the support and an image is disclosed. The reflective stack comprises an at least partially transparent spacer layer comprising a substituted acrylamide polymer disposed between a partially reflective first layer and a reflective second layer. The acrylamide layer has a thickness sufficient to produce an interference color.

nanostructured articles and methods to produce them

resumo “artigos nanoestruturados e métodos para produzir os mesmos” trata-se de um material que compreende partículas sub-micrométricas dispersas em uma matriz polimérica. os materiais deste artigo podem ser utilizados, por exemplo, em várias aplicações que incluam aplicações de exibição (por exemplo, telas de cristal líquido (lcd), telas de diodo emissor de luz (led), ou telas de plasma); extração de luz; proteção contra interferência eletromagnética (iem), lentes oftálmicas; lentes para proteção da face ou filmes protetores; filmes para janelas; aplicações anti-reflexo para construções; e aplicações para construções ou sinais de trânsito.

Patterned wavelength-selective film

The disclosed patterned wavelength-selective material and process for making the patterned wavelength-selective material uses selectively located barriers to the adhesive regions. A structurally weak wavelength-selective material includes portions that contact the adhesive regions and break to remain in contact with the adhesive. The wavelength-selective material does not contact the adhesive regions covered by the barrier and is removed leaving a wavelength-selective film in a pattern at the adhesive regions.

Internally patterned multilayer optical films with multiple birefringent layers

Refractive index modulation in glass using a femtosecond laser

The invention relates to inducing a refractive index change in the glass substrate of a polymer coated optical device by using a high numeric aperture lens to focus a femtosecond laser beam through the polymeric coating to the substrate without damaging the polymeric coating.

Microlens sheeting with floating image using a shape memory material.

La presente invención se refiere a un revestimiento que incluye una capa de un material de polímero con memoria de forma que tiene una superficie de microlentes, en donde cada una de las microlentes está asociado con una de una pluralidad de imágenes dentro del revestimiento. La capa del material de polímero con memoria de forma responde a un estímulo externo, por ejemplo, temperatura, solvente o humedad, pasando de un primer estado, en el cual una propiedad óptica de las microlentes tiene un primer valor, a un segundo estado, en el cual la propiedad óptica de las microlentes tiene un segundo valor. Las microlentes tienen superficies de refracción que transmiten luz a posiciones dentro del revestimiento para producir una imagen compuesta a partir de las imágenes formadas dentro del revestimiento cuando la capa del material de polímero con memoria de forma se encuentra en el primer estado o el segundo estado. Por lo menos una de las imágenes es una imagen parcialmente completa, y cada una de las imágenes está asociada con una diferente de las microlentes.

Process for producing a patterned metal surface

ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE The present invention is a surface modification process which provides a means of rapidly heating a thin layer of a polymer surface or a thin coating of material on a coated substrate and various surfaces produced by such a process.

Multi-layer articles capable of forming color images and methods of forming color images

Multi-layer articles are described that are capable of forming color images. The articles may contain at least two layers, a thermally activatable layer and a blocking layer, or at least three layers with two thermally activatable layers and a blocking layer between. The thermally activatable layers absorb light of a write wavelength and have an absorption threshold for activation. The blocking layer blocks light of the write wavelength at certain incident angles or polarization states and permits light of the write wavelength and certain incident angles or polarization states to pass through. The thermally activatable layers may be layers with a light to heat convertor composition and a color changing compound or they may be a group of layers arranged to change its reflective characteristic upon exposure to light while maintaining the structural integrity of the group of layers

Patterned article including electrically conductive elements

Yhdistelmäkuvan sisältävä kelluva kalvo

Arkusz ze złożonym obrazem pływającym

Respirator having optically active exhalation valve

A respirator, comprising: a harness;a mask body; andan exhalation valve disposed on and attached to the mask body, wherein the exhalation valve comprises: a valve seat; a valve cover; and a flexible flap that is in engagement with the valve seat, the flexible flap comprising either a band shifting film or at least a specularly reflecting film that causes the flap to flash when moving from a closed position to an open position or vice versa, and wherein the valve cover is sufficiently transparent to enable the flexible flap to be seen through a solid portion of the valve cover.. The flashing valve can make it easier for a user to ascertain whether the valve is operating properly.

Sheeting with composite image that floats

Scanned, pulsed electron-beam polymerization

A method including: a. coating at least a portion of at least one major surface of a substrate with a polymerizable composition to obtain a coated surface; b. initiating polymerization of the polymerizable composition by scanning a first electron-beam focused on the coated surface across at least a portion of the coated surface, thereby irradiating the coated surface at a frequency selected to achieve an exposure duration of greater than 0 and no greater than 10 microseconds, and a dark time between each exposure duration of at least one millisecond, thereby producing an at least partially polymerized composition. A pressure sensitive adhesive article and a cross-linked silicone release liner made according to the method are also disclosed.

Scanned, pulsed electron-beam polymerization

A method including: a. coating at least a portion of at least one major surface of a substrate with a polymerizable composition to obtain a coated surface; b. initiating polymerization of the polymerizable composition by scanning a first electron-beam focused on the coated surface across at least a portion of the coated surface, thereby irradiating the coated surface at a frequency selected to achieve an exposure duration of greater than 0 and no greater than 10 microseconds, and a dark time between each exposure duration of at least one millisecond, thereby producing an at least partially polymerized composition. A pressure sensitive adhesive article and a cross-linked silicone release liner made according to the method are also disclosed.

Scanned, pulsed electron-beam polymerization

A method including: a. coating at least a portion of at least one major surface of a substrate with a polymerizable composition to obtain a coated surface; b. initiating polymerization of the polymerizable composition by scanning a first electron-beam focused on the coated surface across at least a portion of the coated surface, thereby irradiating the coated surface at a frequency selected to achieve an exposure duration of greater than 0 and no greater than 10 microseconds, and a dark time between each exposure duration of at least one millisecond, thereby producing an at least partially polymerized composition. A pressure sensitive adhesive article and a cross-linked silicone release liner made according to the method are also disclosed.

Scanned, pulsed electron-beam polymerization

A method including: a. coating at least a portion of at least one major surface of a substrate with a polymerizable composition to obtain a coated surface; b. initiating polymerization of the polymerizable composition by scanning a first electron-beam focused on the coated surface across at least a portion of the coated surface, thereby irradiating the coated surface at a frequency selected to achieve an exposure duration of greater than 0 and no greater than 10 microseconds, and a dark time between each exposure duration of at least one millisecond, thereby producing an at least partially polymerized composition. A pressure sensitive adhesive article and a cross-linked silicone release liner made according to the method are also disclosed.

Polymerisation mit gepulstem elektronenstrahl

A patterned wavelength-selective image

Patterned wavelength-selective image

Wavelength-selective films are visibly apparent under the selective wavelength. Wavelength-selective films typically reflect off axis the selected wavelength and therefore can provide high-contrast against a background when applied in a pattern on a substrate. However, it is difficult to apply unique patterned embedded images from film. Disclosed is a cost-effective method and construction of a patterned wavelength-selective image to a substrate. In the disclosed wavelength-selective image, wavelength-selective film particles are applied to an adhesive pattern to create the wavelength-selective image.

A patterned wavelength-selective image

Wavelength-selective films are visibly apparent under the selective wavelength. Wavelength-selective films typically reflect off axis the selected wavelength and therefore can provide high-contrast against a background when applied in a pattern on a substrate. However, it is difficult to apply unique patterned embedded images from film. Disclosed is a cost-effective method and construction of a patterned wavelength-selective image to a substrate. In the disclosed wavelength-selective image, wavelength-selective film particles are applied to an adhesive pattern to create the wavelength-selective image.

光学アセンブリ

【課題】光学積層体上に直接的にインサート成形された光学素子を含む光学アセンブリを提供する。【解決手段】光学積層体１２０は、光学フィルムを含み、光学素子とライナーとの間に光学フィルムが配置されたライナーを含み得る。ライナーは、含まれる場合、光学フィルムを実質的に損傷することなく、光学フィルムから除去可能である。光学フィルムの最も外側の層は、光学素子１１０の主表面に拡散接合されてもよい。【選択図】図１Ａ

Non-contact friction ridge capture device

Non-contact friction ridge capture device

A non-contact friction ridge capture device is described. The device comprises a device housing, the device housing including an electronics compartment and an illumination shield, with an opening between the electronics compartment and the illumination shield into which a user can insert the user's hand. The device further comprising a camera disposed in the electronics compartment for capturing an image of at least one friction ridge surface on a user's hand. The device further comprises a light source disposed in the electronics compartment, the light source emitting light in the direction of the illumination shield, wherein the peak wavelength of emitted light is in the range of 440 to 570 nanometers (nm). The user's hand is not required to contact the device when the camera captures the image of at least one friction ridge surface on a user's hand.

Patterned wavelength-selective film

The disclosed patterned wavelength-selective material and process for making the patterned wavelength-selective material uses patterned applied adhesive and a structurally weak wavelength-selective material that includes portions that contact the adhesive and break to remain in contact with the adhesive. In one embodiment, the wavelength-selective material comprises an array of sections with cuts at least partially through a wavelength-selective film at each section secured to the adhesive. In another embodiment, the wavelength-selective film comprises a transfer stack of layers.

Respirator having optically active exhalation valve

Various embodiments of a respirator that includes a harness, a mask body, and an exhalation valve are disclosed. The exhalation valve can include a valve seat and a flexible flap that is in engagement with the valve seat. The flexible flap can have one or more materials that can cause the flap to flash when moving from a closed position to an open position or vice versa. The flashing valve can make it easier for a user to ascertain whether the valve is operating properly.

Radar-optical fusion article and system

A radar-optical fusion article for attachment to a substrate is described. The radar-optical fusion article includes a first retroreflective layer which is configured to retroreflect at least a portion of light having a wavelength in a range from about 400 nm to about 2500 nm. The radar-optical fusion article includes a second retroreflective layer disposed adjacent to the first retroreflective layer. The second retroreflective layer is configured to retroreflect at least a portion of an electromagnetic wave having a frequency in the range from about 0.5 GHz to about 100 GHz.

Patterned Article Including Metallic Bodies

A patterned article includes a polymeric layer having opposing first and second major surfaces and defining a plurality of through openings therein. For each through opening in at least a sub-plurality of the through openings, a metallic body is disposed in the through opening. The metallic body has a first outermost surface, an opposite second outermost surface and at least one lateral sidewall extending therebetween. The first outermost surface of the metallic body is substantially flush with the first major surface of the polymeric layer. Each lateral sidewall extends from the first outermost surface of the metallic body toward or to, but not past, the second major surface of the polymeric layer. The metallic body is substantially coextensive with the through opening in at least one cross-section parallel to the polymeric layer. The metallic bodies can be electrically isolated from one another.

Modificacion de la superficie por plasma o iones acelerados.

LA PRESENTE INVENCION ES UN PROCESO DE MODIFICACION DE SUPERFICIE QUE PROPORCIONA UN MEDIO DE CALENTAR RAPIDAMENTE UNA FINA CAPA DE UNA SUPERFICIE POLIMERO O UNA FINA CAPA DE MATERIAL EN UN SUBSTRATO RECUBIERTO Y DISTINTAS SUPERFICIES PRODUCIDAS POR TAL PROCESO.

Optical Assembly

An optical assembly including an optical element insert molded directly onto an optical stack is provided. The optical stack includes an optical film and may include a liner with the optical film being disposed between the optical element and the liner. The liner, if included, is removable from the optical film without substantial damage to the optical film. An outermost layer of the optical film may be diffusion bonded to a major surface of the optical element.

Refractive index modulation in glass using a femtosecond laser