• 专利附录
  • 专利说明
  • 权利要求
  • 类似技术
  • 同族专利
  • 引用文献
  • 法律状态
  • 优先权
    • 专利摘要:
    Metal-look trim pieces that can be selectively illuminated and their manufacturing methods. Embellishers of metallic-looking objects include a transparent or translucent substrate defining the upper and lower surfaces, an opaque layer applied to one of the upper and lower surfaces of the substrate, the opaque layer defining one or more openings through which light can pass, and one or more translucent metallic effect layers applied to an upper surface of the opaque layer when the opaque layer is applied to the upper surface of the substrate or to the upper surface of the substrate when the opaque layer is applied to the surface lower of the substrate. The one or more metallic effect layers include one or more metallic effect paints or one or more layers of digitally printed metallic material. A light source is disposed below the lower surface of the substrate and generates light that passes through the substrate, the one or more openings, and the one or more metallic effect layers. (Machine-translation by Google Translate, not legally binding)
    公开号:ES2706652A2
    申请号:ES201830556
    申请日:2018-06-07
    公开日:2019-03-29
    发明作者:Guillem Sergio Piles；Segura Raul Martinez；Rodriguez Fernando Colon
    申请人:SRG Global Liria SL；
    IPC主号:
    专利说明:

    [0001]
    [0002] Metal-look trim pieces that can be selectively illuminated and their manufacturing methods
    [0003]
    [0004] The present application relates generally to decorative embellishments and, more particularly, to metallic appearance embellishments that can be selectively illuminated and to their manufacturing methods.
    [0005]
    [0006] STATE OF THE PREVIOUS TECHNIQUE
    [0007]
    [0008] Decorative embellishments are applied to accentuate or improve the visual appearance of an object. For example, the interior and exterior components of vehicles often have decorative trim. To further enhance the visual appearance, light sources can be incorporated into the decorative trims to generate a lighting effect. Chrome is an example of a decorative trim that is often used due to its high gloss appearance. However, chrome plating can have a negative environmental impact, for example, due to the use of hexavalent chromium baths. Chroming is also formed by one or more opaque metallic layers that do not allow light to pass through and, therefore, can not be used in relation to backlit lighting effects. Accordingly, while said decorative trims work well for their intended purpose, there remains a need for improvement in the relevant art.
    [0009]
    [0010] EXPLANATION OF THE INVENTION
    [0011]
    [0012] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a trim is provided for an object. In an exemplary embodiment, the trim comprises: a transparent or translucent substrate defining an upper surface, an opaque layer applied to the upper surface of the substrate, the opaque layer defining one or more openings through which light can pass, and one or more translucent metallic effect layers applied to a top surface of the opaque layer.
    [0013]
    [0014] In some embodiments, the one or more metal effect layers comprise one or more layers of metallic effect paint. In other embodiments, the one or more effect layers metallic comprise one or more layers of metallic effect material digitally printed.
    [0015]
    [0016] In some embodiments, the one or more metallic effect layers comprise only one or more layers of metallic effect paint basecoat. In other embodiments, the one or more metallic effect layers comprise (i) a translucent primer layer applied to the upper surface of the opaque layer and portions of the substrate corresponding to one or more openings and (ii) one or more layers of paint of translucent base coat of metallic effect paint applied to the upper surface of the primer layer. In some embodiments, the one or more metal effect layers further comprise a transparent or translucent top layer layer applied to a top surface of the one or more layers of basecoat paint, wherein the topcoat layer protects and improves a metallic effect of one or more layers of metallic effect.
    [0017]
    [0018] In some embodiments, at least one of the primer layer and the top layer comprises metallic particles to further improve the metallic effect of the one or more metallic effect layers. In some embodiments, the upper layer layer is at least one colored and dyed to further improve the metallic effect of the one or more metallic effect layers.
    [0019]
    [0020] In some embodiments, the trim is a trim that can be selectively illuminated which further comprises a light source disposed below a bottom surface of the substrate, the light source being configured to emit light through the substrate, the one or more apertures being defined by the opaque layer, and the one or more layers of metallic effect. In some embodiments, the trim further comprises a light guide disposed between the light source and the bottom surface of the substrate, the light guide being configured to distribute the light output from the light source.
    [0021]
    [0022] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of manufacturing an embellisher for an object is presented. In an exemplary embodiment, the method comprises: providing a transparent or translucent substrate defining a top surface, applying an opaque layer to the top surface of the substrate, the opaque layer defining one or more openings through which light can pass through , and apply one or more translucent metallic effect layers to a top surface of the opaque layer.
    [0023] In some embodiments, the application of the one or more metal effect layers comprises the application of one or more layers of metallic effect paint. In other embodiments, the application of one or more metallic effect layers comprises the digital printing of one or more layers of a metallic effect material.
    [0024]
    [0025] In some embodiments, the one or more metallic effect layers comprise only one or more layers of metallic effect paint basecoat. In other embodiments, the application of the one or more metal effect layers comprises (i) applying a translucent primer layer applied to the upper surface of the opaque layer and portions of the substrate corresponding to one or more openings and (ii) applying a or more layers of translucent base coat paint of metallic effect paint applied to the top surface of the primer layer. In some embodiments, the method further comprises applying a transparent or translucent top layer layer applied to a top surface of the one or more layers of basecoat paint, wherein the topcoat layer protects and enhances a metallic effect of one or more layers of metallic effect.
    [0026]
    [0027] In some embodiments, the application of the opaque layer further comprises: the application of an initial opaque layer that does not define the one or more openings, and the elimination of portions of the initial opaque layer corresponding to the one or more openings and the obtaining of the opaque layer. In some embodiments, the application of the initial opaque layer comprises spraying an opaque primer and curing the sprayed opaque primer to obtain the initial opaque layer. In some embodiments, removal of portions of the initial opaque layer comprises laser etching the initial opaque layer. In other embodiments, the application of the opaque layer further comprises: applying a temporary mask layer to the upper surface of the substrate, applying an initial opaque layer by spraying an opaque primer onto the upper surface of the substrate and the temporary mask layer, and removing the temporary mask layer and portions of the initial opaque layer associated therewith to obtain the opaque layer. In still other embodiments, the application of the opaque layer comprises the digital printing of an opaque material in portions of the upper surface of the substrate.
    [0028]
    [0029] In some embodiments, the method further comprises injection or compression molding, thermoforming, or additive that fabricates a plastic material to form the substrate.
    [0030]
    [0031] In some embodiments, the embellisher is a trim that can be illuminated selectively, and the method further comprises disposing a light source below a lower surface of the substrate, the light source being configured to emit light through the substrate, one or more openings being defined by the opaque layer, and the one or more metallic effect layers. In some embodiments, the method further comprises arranging a light guide between the light source and the lower surface of the substrate, the light guide being configured to distribute the light output from the light source. In some embodiments, the method further comprises packaging the light source and embellisher that can be selectively illuminated in a single integrated module.
    [0032]
    [0033] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an embellisher is provided for an object. In an exemplary embodiment, the trim comprises: a transparent or translucent substrate defining an upper surface and a lower surface, an opaque layer applied to the lower surface of the substrate, the opaque layer defining one or more openings through which it can pass the light, and one or more translucent layers of metallic effect applied to the upper surface of the substrate.
    [0034]
    [0035] In some embodiments, the one or more metal effect layers comprise one or more layers of metallic effect paint. In other embodiments, the one or more metal effect layers comprise one or more layers of digitally printed metal effect material.
    [0036]
    [0037] In some embodiments, the one or more metallic effect layers comprise only one or more layers of metallic effect paint basecoat. In other embodiments, the one or more metallic effect layers comprise (i) a translucent primer layer applied to the upper surface of the substrate and (ii) one or more layers of translucent base coat paint of metallic effect paint applied to a upper surface of the primer layer. In some embodiments, the one or more metal effect layers further comprise a transparent or translucent top layer layer applied to a top surface of the one or more layers of basecoat paint, wherein the topcoat layer protects and improves a metallic effect of one or more layers of metallic effect.
    [0038]
    [0039] In some embodiments, at least one of the primer layer and the top layer comprises metallic particles to further improve the metallic effect of the one or more metallic effect layers. In some embodiments, the upper layer layer is at least one colored and dyed to further improve the metallic effect of the one or more layers of metallic effect.
    [0040]
    [0041] In some embodiments, the trim is a trim that can be selectively illuminated which further comprises a light source disposed below a bottom surface of the substrate, the light source being configured to emit light through the one or more apertures defined by the layer. opaque, the substrate, and the one or more layers of metallic effect. In some embodiments, the trim further comprises a light guide disposed between (i) the light source and (ii) the bottom surface of the substrate and the opaque layer, the light guide being configured to distribute the light output from the source of light.
    [0042]
    [0043] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of manufacturing an embellisher for an object is presented. In an exemplary embodiment, the method comprises: providing a transparent or translucent substrate defining an upper surface and a lower surface, applying an opaque layer to the lower surface of the substrate, the opaque layer defining one or more openings through which the light can pass, and apply one or more translucent layers of metallic effect to the upper surface of the substrate.
    [0044]
    [0045] In some embodiments, the application of the one or more metal effect layers comprises the application of one or more layers of metallic effect paint. In other embodiments, the application of one or more metallic effect layers comprises the digital printing of one or more layers of a metallic effect material.
    [0046]
    [0047] In some embodiments, the one or more metallic effect layers comprise only one or more layers of metallic effect paint basecoat. In other embodiments, the application of one or more metallic effect layers comprises (i) applying a translucent primer layer applied to the upper surface of the substrate and (ii) applying one or more layers of translucent basecoat paint of effect paint. metallic applied to a top surface of the primer layer. In some embodiments, the method further comprises applying a transparent or translucent top layer layer applied to a top surface of the one or more layers of basecoat paint, wherein the topcoat layer protects and enhances a metallic effect of one or more layers of metallic effect.
    [0048]
    [0049] In some embodiments, the application of the opaque layer further comprises: the application of an initial opaque layer that does not define the one or more openings, and the elimination of portions of the initial opaque layer corresponding to the one or more openings and obtaining the opaque layer. In some embodiments, the application of the initial opaque layer comprises spraying an opaque primer and curing the sprayed opaque primer to obtain the initial opaque layer. In some embodiments, removal of portions of the initial opaque layer comprises laser etching the initial opaque layer. In other embodiments, the application of the opaque layer further comprises: applying a temporary mask layer to the lower surface of the substrate, applying an initial opaque layer by spraying an opaque primer over the lower surface of the substrate and the temporary mask layer, and removing the temporary mask layer and portions of the initial opaque layer associated therewith to obtain the opaque layer. In still other embodiments, the application of the opaque layer comprises the digital printing of an opaque material in portions of the upper surface of the substrate.
    [0050]
    [0051] In some embodiments, the method further comprises injection or compression molding, thermoforming, or additive that fabricates a plastic material to form the substrate. In some embodiments, the trim is a trim that can be selectively illuminated, and the method further comprises arranging a light source beneath a bottom surface of the substrate, the light source being configured to emit light through the substrate, with one or more openings defined by the opaque layer, and the one or more metallic effect layers. In some embodiments, the method further comprises arranging a light guide between the light source and the lower surface of the substrate, the light guide being configured to distribute the light output from the light source. In some embodiments, the method further comprises packaging the light source and embellisher that can be selectively illuminated in a single integrated module.
    [0052]
    [0053] Additional areas of applicability of the teachings of the present disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description, the claims and the drawings given below, in which like reference numbers refer to similar characteristics in all the various views of the drawings. It should be understood that the detailed description, including the disclosed embodiments and the drawings referenced therein, is merely illustrative in nature and is for illustrative purposes only, and is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure, its application or uses. . Therefore, it is intended that variations that do not deviate from the substance of the present disclosure are within the scope of the present disclosure.
    [0054] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
    [0055]
    [0056] Figures 1A-1B are cross-sectional views of a first embodiment of a trim that can be selectively illuminated in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure for two different user viewing angles;
    [0057]
    [0058] Figure 2 is a flow diagram of a method for manufacturing the first embodiment of the trim that can be selectively illuminated in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;
    [0059]
    [0060] Figures 3A-3B are cross-sectional views of a second embodiment of an embellisher that can be selectively illuminated in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure for two different user viewing angles;
    [0061]
    [0062] Figures 4A-4B are cross-sectional views of the first and second alternative embodiments of an embellisher that can be selectively illuminated in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure; Y
    [0063]
    [0064] Figure 5 is a flow chart of a method for manufacturing the second embodiment of the trim that can be selectively illuminated in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.
    [0065]
    [0066] DETAILED EXHIBITION OF REALIZATION MODES
    [0067] As discussed above, chrome is formed by one or more opaque metallic layers that do not allow light to pass through, which makes it unusable for a decorative trim that has backlit lighting effects. Chroming also attenuates radar transmission. Accordingly, metal-look embellishers that can be illuminated selectively improved and their manufacturing methods are presented. In other aspects of the present disclosure, metallic-looking embellishers comprising multiple stacked layers together with an optional light source and light guide are packaged together to form individual integrated modules. In some embodiments, these trims utilize a metallic effect paint and an opaque back layer to achieve a metallic appearance component that is aesthetically nice like chrome. In other embodiments, these embellishers use digital printing to deposit or apply a metallic effect layer in place of the metallic effect paint. In additional embodiments, a non-metallic effect paint can be used in place of a metallic effect paint. For example, a matte finish paint can be used. Traditional painting techniques (for example, roller, brush or spray) can be used to apply metallic or non-metallic effect paint. In addition, vacuum or electrostatic deposition (for example, powder coating) can be used to apply metallic or non-metallic paint. In each embodiment, multiple application techniques may be used. For example, the opaque back layer can be applied by spraying.
    [0068]
    [0069] In a first embodiment, an opaque layer is deposited on a top surface of a substrate, thereby placing it closer to the eyes of an observing user and creating a sharper image with less distortion, such as when viewed at an angle. In a second embodiment, the opaque layer is deposited on the lower surface of the substrate, thereby placing it farther from the eyes of the observing user and creating a potentially less sharp image with greater distortion, such as when viewed at an angle. This second embodiment, however, has advantages from the point of view of processing because the opaque layer only needs to have a necessary level of adhesion to the lower surface of the substrate. These processing advantages can result in a reduction in costs, which could more than compensate for any possible distortion during visualization. In addition, the amount of distortion depends on the thickness of the substrate and the type of light source. Different levels of distortion can be considered as acceptable for different applications.
    [0070]
    [0071] Referring now to FIGS. 1A-1B, cross-sectional views of the first embodiment of the single integrated module 100 are illustrated. The module 100 comprises a stack of metal-looking embossers 104 formed by multiple stacked layers. A transparent or translucent substrate 108 forms a base of the trim 104. Details of the formation of the substrate 108 are described in detail below with reference to Figure 2. Non-limiting examples of the substrate 108 include plastic or polymeric materials, such as polycarbonates (PC), polymethyl methacrylates (PMMA), acrylonitrile butadiene styrenes (ABS), styrene acrylics, styrene acrylonitrile polymers, polyamides and combinations thereof. For automotive trim applications, the substrate 108 could be an interior component (an assembly dashboard, a center console assembly, a multimedia or infotainment unit assembly, a door trim panel, etc.) or an exterior body component (front or side grille assemblies, bumper or fender details, details on headlights or taillights, a trunk door terminator, etc.). It will be appreciated that the systems and methods described herein are not limited to automotive applications and could be applicable to decorative trims for non-automotive applications (appliances and consumer goods, railroads, motorcycles, aerospace, etc.).
    [0072]
    [0073] An opaque layer 112 is applied to a top surface of the substrate 108. The details of the application of the opaque layer 112 are described in detail below with reference to Figure 2. The opaque layer 112, while illustrated as a primer layer of black color, could have any color or adequate composition that avoids, or mitigates substantially, the transmission of light through it. Non-limiting examples of the opaque layer 112 comprise curable, epoxy-based, polyurethane-based and acrylic-based wet paints having opaque color pigments and combinations thereof. Alternatively, the opaque layer 112 could be digitally printed. Opaque layer 112 defines one or more spaces or openings 116 through which light can pass. The one or more openings 116 correspond to a designed lighting detail effect, such as, for example, a detail, logo, marks, icon, pattern, pattern, button or other similar detail for the object associated with the trim. A translucent primer layer 120 is optionally applied to a top surface of the opaque layer 112, as well as to the top surface of the substrate 108 in areas corresponding to one or more openings 116. The details of the application of the primer layer 120 are describe in detail below with reference to Figure 2. Non-limiting examples of primer 120 include wet curable paints based on epoxy, based on polyurethane and based on acrylics that are transparent or translucent, and combinations thereof .
    [0074]
    [0075] One or more translucent metallic effect layers 124 are applied to an upper surface of the base coat layer 120 (or to the opaque layer 112 and portions of the substrate 108 in areas corresponding to the one or more openings 116 when no primer is applied 120). For example, two or more layers of paint could achieve optimal aesthetics (base coat layer 120 paint layer with unique metallic effect 124, single primer layer 120 two layers of metal effect paint 124, two coats of metal effect paint 124 and without primer 120, etc.). As an alternative, the layer or layers of Metallic effect 124 could be applied through digital printing. The details of the application of the metallic effect layer 124 are described in detail below with reference to Figure 2. The metallic effect layer 124 is translucent because it is formed by a paint or printed material comprising elements that are translucent ( that is, at least partially transmissible to light) such as, for example, transition metals, post-transition metals, metalloids, and combinations thereof (eg, alloys, such as oxides and oxide alloys). For example, the metallic effect paint could be a paint solution comprising flakes of one or more of the elements described above. It will be appreciated that metal flakes or similar materials could also be included in the primer layer 120 to further improve the metallic effect.
    [0076]
    [0077] The thickness of the metallic effect paint layer 124 must be such that it remains at least translucent when illuminated with backlighting while it also looks metallic when it is not illuminated. The translucency of a metallic layer could also be affected by the chemical composition of the layer and the dispersion of the elements as they are reflected. The metallic effect paint layer 124 could also comprise multiple layers of a single metallic effect paint or different metallic effect paints applied in several phases to achieve the desired appearance and translucency (ie, the desired optical properties). For example, Figure 4A illustrates a configuration 400 of the trim stack 104 that requires only an individual metallic effect layer 124 of one or more layers of metallic effect paint undercoat (and no primer 120), together with the optional top layer layer 128 to achieve optimum aesthetics, thereby saving costs and reducing complexity. As discussed above, digital printing can be used as an alternative to metallic effect paint. Specifically, one or more metallic effect layers can be digitally printed on the substrate 108, thus eliminating the need for the primer layer 120.
    [0078]
    [0079] The optional upper layer layer 128 could be applied to a top surface of the metallic effect layer 124. The details of the application of the optional upper layer layer 128 are described in detail below with reference to Figure 2. The examples do not Limitations of the top layer 128 include wet curable paints based on epoxy, based on polyurethane and based on acrylics that are transparent or translucent, and combinations thereof. The optional upper layer layer 128 could be applied both to protect the metallic effect layer 124 (for example, chipping, pickling or scratching) as to further improve the appearance of the metallic effect layer 124 (for example, by improving its gloss appearance). It will be appreciated that the top layer 128 could include metal flakes or similar materials to further improve the metallic effect. It will also be appreciated that the top layer 128 could be dyed and / or colored to further improve the metallic effect. Non-limiting examples of this include a blue metallic effect, a copper metallic effect and a brass metallic effect, but any combination of dye and / or coloration could be used.
    [0080]
    [0081] Although it is shown that the various top layers 112, 120, 124 and 128 have approximately the same thickness, it will be appreciated that their actual thicknesses could vary widely and, in most cases, will be substantially less than the thickness of the substrate 108. an exemplary implementation, the primer layer 120 could have a thickness of 15 microns, the metallic effect layer 124 could have a thickness of 1-3 microns, and the upper layer layer 128 could have a thickness of 20-22 microns. This is much thinner compared to a standard paint process, where a primer layer has a thickness of 20-25 micrometers, a basecoat paint layer has a thickness of 12-16 micrometers, and a topcoat layer has a thickness of 30-35 microns In another exemplary implementation, the primer layer 120 could have a thickness of 3-30 microns, the metallic effect layer 124 could have a thickness of 1-6 microns, and the top coat layer 128 could have a thickness of 10-50 micrometers. In this example, the metallic effect paint layer 124 still has a thickness that is substantially thinner than conventional paint processes.
    [0082]
    [0083] The only integrated module 100 further comprises a light source 132 (e.g., a light emitting diode (LED), an organic LED (OLED), optical fiber, electroluminescent or a similar device, such as a laser light source) and an optional light guide 136 for directing, focusing or distributing the light generated from the light source 132 through the substrate 108 and the one or more openings 116 to form a visible field 140. The reference 144 represents a focal or viewing angle of an observer user. As shown in Figure 1A, from a direct viewing angle, there is no distortion of the visible field 140. In other words, the perceived width 148 of the observing user 144 is equal to or approximately equal to the actual width of the visible field 140. As shown in FIG. shown in Figure 1B, from a displaced or angled viewing angle, there is a very small distortion of the visible field 140. As can be seen, the perceived width 152 of the observing user 144 is only slightly larger than the actual width of the visible field 140. Therefore, the observing user 144 must see a clear and sharp image as intended when backlight by the light source 132 and should see a shiny, metallic-looking layer when it is not backlit by the light source 132.
    [0084]
    [0085] Referring now to Figure 2, a flow diagram of a method 200 of manufacturing the first embodiment of the single integrated module 100 of Figures 1A-1B is illustrated. At 204, the transparent or translucent substrate is obtained. The substrate 108 could be formed, for example, using any suitable plastic or polymer processing technique including, but not limited to, injection molding, extrusion, compression molding, thermoforming, and additive manufacturing (e.g., three-dimensional printing (3D)) . As mentioned above, non-limiting examples of the substrate 108 include plastic or polymeric materials, such as PC, PMMA, ABS, styrene acrylics, styrene acrylonitrile polymers, polyamides and combinations thereof. In an exemplary implementation, the substrate is an interior plastic component or an exterior body component of a vehicle as previously described herein.
    [0086]
    [0087] At 208, the opaque layer 112 is applied to the upper surface of the substrate 108. In an exemplary embodiment, the opaque layer 112 is applied by spraying an opaque primer, which is then cured to form an initial opaque layer. The portions of the initial opaque layer corresponding to the one or more openings are removed (e.g., removed) to obtain the opaque layer. For example, laser engraving could be used to remove portions of the initial opaque layer. In another exemplary embodiment, a temporary mask layer is initially applied to the upper surface of the substrate 108. The temporary mask layer corresponds to one or more apertures 116 defined by the opaque layer 112. This temporary mask layer could be a tape or another adhesive or a rigid mask device. Once the temporary mask layer has been applied, an opaque primer is sprayed onto the substrate 108 and the temporary mask layer to form an initial opaque layer. Then, the temporary mask layer is removed, thereby removing portions of the initial opaque layer corresponding to the one or more apertures 116 to obtain the opaque layer 112. As previously mentioned, the non-limiting examples of the opaque layer 112 comprise paints wet curables based on epoxy, based on polyurethane and based on acrylics that have opaque color pigments and combinations thereof. In other exemplary embodiment, the opaque layer 112 is an opaque paint that is deposited using a digital printing process, thereby avoiding the need to use (i) a subsequent laser etching process to define the one or more openings 116 or (ii) ) using a mask to prevent deposition of the opaque layer 112 and form the one or more openings 116.
    [0088]
    [0089] At optional 212, the translucent primer layer 120 is applied to a top surface of the opaque layer 112 and to the substrate 108 in areas corresponding to one or more apertures 116 defined by the opaque layer 112. The application of the primer layer 120 is such that it defines a substantially flat or planar upper surface (eg, flush), while also having an irregular thickness (i.e., thicker in the regions corresponding to the one or more openings 116 and less thick in other regions). ). In an exemplary embodiment, the primer layer 120 is applied by spraying a translucent layer, which is then cured to form the primer layer 120. As previously mentioned, non-limiting examples of the primer layer 120 include curable wet paints a epoxy base, based on polyurethane and based on acrylics that are transparent or translucent, and combinations thereof.
    [0090]
    [0091] At 216, the translucent metallic effect layer 124 is applied to the upper surface of the base layer 120. The metallic effect layer 124 is applied using any suitable painting or printing process, such as, but not limited to, spraying, brush, roller, and digital printing, as well as vacuum processes such as physical vapor deposition (PVD) and chemical vapor deposition (CVD) or electrostatic deposition (for example, powder coating). As previously mentioned, the paint solution comprises elements that are translucent (ie, at least partially transmissible to light) such as, for example, transition metals, post-transition metals, metalloids and combinations thereof (e.g. , alloys, such as oxides and oxide alloys). For example, a metallic effect paint solution could comprise flakes of one or more of the elements described above. As previously mentioned, the thickness of a metallic effect paint layer 124 must be such that it remains at least translucent when illuminated with backlighting while it also looks metallic when it is not illuminated. It will also be appreciated that multiple layers of a single metallic effect paint or multiple layers of different metallic effect paints could be applied in different phases to form a metallic effect paint layer 124.
    [0092] At optional 220, the optional transparent or translucent upper layer layer 128 is applied to a top surface of the metallic effect layer 124. In a similar manner to the primer layer 120, in an exemplary embodiment, the top layer 128 is applied by spraying a transparent or translucent coating, which is then cured to form the top layer 128. As previously mentioned, the non-limiting examples of the top layer 128 include epoxy-based curable wet paints, a polyurethane base and based on acrylics that are transparent or translucent, and combinations thereof. The potential benefits of providing the upper layer layer 128 include protecting the metallic effect layer 124 from weathering or damage (chipping, scratching, etc.) and / or improving the appearance (e.g., brightness) of the effect layer. metallic 124. In optional 224, the light source 132 and the optional light guide 136 are disposed below the bottom surface of the substrate 108. In optional 228, the stack of trim pieces 104 and the light source 132 (and optionally, the light guide 136) are assembled or packaged in the single integrated module 100. Method 200 then ends.
    [0093]
    [0094] Referring now to Figures 3A-3B, the cross-sectional diagrams of a second embodiment of an individual integrated module 300 are illustrated. The module 300 comprises a stack of metal-look trim 304 formed by multiple stacked layers. The stack of trim 304 comprises a transparent or translucent substrate 308 having an opaque layer 312 applied to a lower surface of the substrate 308, the opaque layer 312 defining one or more apertures 316. The stack of trim 304 further comprises a translucent primer layer. optional 320, a translucent metallic effect layer 324, and an optional transparent or translucent upper layer layer 328 applied sequentially to a top surface of the substrate 308. For example, Figure 4B illustrates a configuration 450 of the stack of trim 304 that alone it requires an individual metallic effect layer 324 (and no primer layer 320), together with the optional upper layer layer 328 to achieve optimum aesthetics, thereby saving costs and reducing complexity. It will be appreciated that these layers 308-328 may be applied or formed from the same or similar materials and using the same methods or methods similar to those described above with reference to layers 108-128 of Figures 1A-1B. The same applies to the light source 332 and the optional light guide 336 and the related description of the light source 132 and the optional light guide 136.
    [0095] Although it is shown that the various top layers 312, 320, 324 and 328 have approximately the same thickness, it will be appreciated that their actual thicknesses could vary widely and, in most cases, will be substantially less than the thickness of the substrate 308. an exemplary implementation, the primer layer 320 could have a thickness of 15 microns, the metallic effect layer 324 could have a thickness of 1-3 microns, and the upper layer layer 328 could have a thickness of 20-22 microns. This is much thinner compared to a standard paint process, where a primer layer has a thickness of 20-25 micrometers, a basecoat paint layer has a thickness of 12-16 micrometers, and a topcoat layer has a thickness of 30-35 microns In another exemplary implementation, the primer layer 320 could have a thickness of 3-30 microns, the metallic effect layer 324 could have a thickness of 1-6 microns, and the upper layer layer 328 could have a thickness of 10-50 micrometers. In this example, the metallic effect paint layer 324 still has a thickness that is substantially thinner than conventional paint processes. As discussed above, digital printing can be used as an alternative to metallic effect paint. Specifically, one or more metallic effect layers can be digitally printed on the substrate 308, thus eliminating the need for the primer layer 320.
    [0096]
    [0097] The main difference between the modules 100 and 300 is that the opaque layer 312 is applied to the lower surface of the substrate 308 in the module 300. There could also be an optional transparent or translucent bottom layer 318 applied to the lower surface of the substrate 308 in the regions corresponding to the one or more openings 316 so that the lower surface (side B) of the stack of trim 304 is flush. This lower layer layer 318 could be the same material or similar to the optional primer layer 320 and / or the optional upper layer layer 328 and could be applied using the same or similar processes (e.g., masking). As shown in Figure 3A, from a direct viewing angle (see reference 344, which represents an observing user 344), there is no distortion of a visible field 340. In other words, the perceived width 348 of the observing user 344 is equal or approximately equal to the actual width of the visible field 340.
    [0098]
    [0099] As shown in Figure 3B, however, from a displaced or angled viewing angle, there is a very large distortion of the visible field 340. As can be seen, the perceived width 352 of the observing user 344 is substantially larger than the width real of the visible field 340. Thus, the observing user 144 will see a less clear (ie, slightly distorted) image when backlit by the light source 332, while still seeing a bright metallic-looking layer when it is not backlit by the light source 332. A benefit of the configuration of the module 300, however, is the easier processing or training. More specifically, the opaque layer 312 only has to be designed or selected to adhere to the substrate 308 and not both the substrate 308 and the primer 320 (as required for the opaque layer 112 with respect to the substrate 108 and the layer layer). base) 120 in Figures 1A-1B).
    [0100]
    [0101] Referring now to Figure 5, a flow chart of a method 500 of manufacturing the second embodiment of the single integrated module 300 is illustrated. Again, it will be appreciated that the same or similar processes or methods described above with respect to the Figures 1A-1B, Figure 2, and Figure 4A could be used in forming the module 300 of Figures 3A-3B, Figure 4B, and method 500. In 504, the transparent or translucent substrate 308 is obtained. In 508 , the opaque layer 312 defining the one or more openings 316 is applied to the back surface of the substrate 308. Although it is described and shown as a second processing step after obtaining the substrate 308, it will be appreciated that the opaque layer 312 could applied after application of the optional translucent primer 320, the translucent metal effect layer 324 and the optional transparent or translucent top layer 328, or somewhere between the application of these layers 320-328, but before steps 528 and 532.
    [0102]
    [0103] In optional 512, the primer 320 is applied to the upper surface of the substrate 308. In 516, the metallic effect layer 324 is applied to the upper surface of the primer 320 using conventional means (eg, spray, brush , roller, and digital printing), as well as vacuum processes such as physical vapor deposition (PVD) and chemical vapor deposition (CVD), or electrostatic deposition (for example, powder coating). At optional 520, the upper layer layer 328 is applied to the upper surface of the metallic effect layer 324. In optional 524, the light source 332 and the optional light guide 336 are disposed below the bottom surface of the stack of trims 304. In optional 428, the stack of trims 304 and the light source 332 (and optionally, the light guide 336) are assembled or packaged in the single integrated module 300. The 500 method then terminates.
    [0104]
    [0105] Exemplary embodiments are provided so that this disclosure is exhaustive and transmit the full scope to those skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth, such as examples of specific components, devices and methods, to provide a complete understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that it is not necessary to employ specific details, that exemplary embodiments can be made in many different ways and that they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosure. In some exemplary embodiments, well-known methods, well-known device structures and well-known technologies are not described in detail.
    [0106]
    [0107] The terminology used in the present document is intended to describe only particular exemplary embodiments and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" may also include the plural forms, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The term "and / or" includes each and every combination of one or more of the associated enumerated elements. The terms "comprises", "comprising", "including" and "having" are inclusive and, therefore, specify the presence of characteristics, integers, stages, operations, elements and / or components indicated, but not they exclude the presence or addition of one or more characteristics, integers, stages, operations, elements, components and / or groups thereof. The steps, processes and method operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring their realization in the particular order analyzed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as a realization order. It should also be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.
    [0108]
    [0109] Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used in the present document to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms can only be used to distinguish an element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as "first", "second" and other numeric terms when used in this document do not imply a sequence or order, unless the context clearly indicates it. Therefore, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be referred to as a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments.
    [0110] The above description of the embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit disclosure. The individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but, where appropriate, are interchangeable and can be used in a selected embodiment, even if they are not specifically displayed or described. The same can be varied in many ways. Such variations should not be considered as a deviation from the disclosure, and all such modifications should be included within the scope of the disclosure.
    [0111]
    [0112] It should be understood that the mixture and combination of features, elements, methodologies and / or functions among various examples may be expressly contemplated herein, so that one skilled in the art would appreciate from the present teachings that features, elements and / or the functions of one example may be incorporated into another example as appropriate, unless otherwise described above.
    权利要求:
    Claims (49)
    [1]
    1. An embellisher for an object, the embellisher comprising:
    a transparent or translucent substrate that defines a top surface;
    an opaque layer applied to the upper surface of the substrate, the opaque layer defining one or more openings through which light can pass; Y
    one or more translucent metallic effect layers applied to a top surface of the opaque layer.
    [2]
    The trim of claim 1, wherein the one or more metal effect layers comprise one or more layers of metallic effect paint.
    [3]
    The trim of claim 1, wherein the one or more metal effect layers comprise one or more layers of digitally printed metal effect material.
    [4]
    The trim of claim 2, wherein the one or more metallic effect layers comprise only one or more layers of metallic effect paint basecoat.
    [5]
    The bezel of claim 2, wherein the one or more metallic effect layers comprise (i) a translucent primer layer applied to the upper surface of the opaque layer and portions of the substrate corresponding to one or more openings and ( ii) one or more layers of translucent base coat paint of metallic effect paint applied to the upper surface of the primer layer.
    [6]
    The trim of claim 5, wherein the one or more metallic effect layers further comprise a transparent or translucent top layer layer applied to a top surface of the one or more topcoat paint layers, wherein the upper layer layer protects and improves a metallic effect of one or more metallic effect layers.
    [7]
    The trim of claim 6, wherein at least one of the primer layer and the top layer comprises metallic particles to further improve the metallic effect of the one or more metallic effect layers.
    [8]
    The trim of claim 6, wherein the top layer is at least one colored and dyed to further improve the metallic effect of the one or more metallic effect layers.
    [9]
    The trim of claim 1, wherein the trim is a selectively illuminating trim that further comprises a light source disposed below a bottom surface of the substrate, the light source being configured to emit light through the substrate. , the one or more openings being defined by the opaque layer, and the one or more metallic effect layers.
    The bezel of claim 9, further comprising a light guide disposed between the light source and the bottom surface of the substrate, the light guide being configured to distribute the light output from the light source.
    [10]
    10. A method for manufacturing an embellisher for an object, the method comprising:
    provide a transparent or translucent substrate that defines a top surface; applying an opaque layer to the upper surface of the substrate, the opaque layer defining one or more openings through which light can pass; Y
    apply one or more translucent metallic effect layers to a top surface of the opaque layer.
    [11]
    The method of claim 10, wherein the application of one or more metallic effect layers comprises the application of one or more layers of metallic effect paint.
    [12]
    The method of claim 10, wherein the application of one or more metallic effect layers comprises the digital printing of one or more layers of a metallic effect material.
    [13]
    The method of claim 11, wherein the one or more metal effect layers comprise only one or more layers of metallic effect paint basecoat.
    [14]
    The method of claim 11, wherein the application of the one or more metal effect layers comprises (i) applying a translucent primer layer applied to the upper surface of the opaque layer and portions of the substrate corresponding to a more openings and (ii) apply one or more coats of translucent basecoat paint metallic effect applied to the upper surface of the primer layer.
    [15]
    The method of claim 14, further comprising applying a transparent or translucent top layer layer applied to a top surface of the one or more layers of basecoat paint, wherein the topcoat layer protects and improves a metallic effect of one or more layers of metallic effect.
    [16]
    16. The method of claim 10, wherein the application of the opaque layer further comprises:
    apply an initial opaque layer that does not define the one or more openings; Y
    removing portions of the initial opaque layer corresponding to one or more openings and obtaining the opaque layer.
    [17]
    The method of claim 16, wherein the application of the initial opaque layer comprises spraying an opaque primer and curing the sprayed opaque primer to obtain the initial opaque layer.
    [18]
    18. The method of claim 17, wherein removing portions of the initial opaque layer comprises laser etching the initial opaque layer.
    [19]
    The method of claim 10, wherein the application of the opaque layer further comprises:
    apply a temporary mask layer to the upper surface of the substrate; applying an initial opaque layer by spraying an opaque primer on the upper surface of the substrate and the temporary mask layer; Y
    Remove the temporary mask layer and portions of the initial opaque layer associated with it to obtain the opaque layer.
    [20]
    The method of claim 10, wherein the application of the opaque layer comprises the digital printing of an opaque material in portions of the upper surface of the substrate.
    [21]
    The method of claim 10, further comprising injection or compression molding, thermoforming, or additive that fabricates a plastic material to form the substrate.
    [22]
    22. The method of claim 10, wherein the embellisher is a trim that it can be selectively illuminated, and the method further comprises arranging a light source below a lower surface of the substrate, the light source being configured to emit light through the substrate, one or more openings being defined by the opaque layer, and the or more layers of metallic effect.
    [23]
    The method of claim 22, further comprising arranging a light guide between the light source and the lower surface of the substrate, the light guide being configured to distribute the light output from the light source.
    [24]
    The method of claim 22, further comprising packaging the light source and embellisher that can be selectively illuminated in a single integrated module.
    [25]
    25. An embellisher for an object, the embellisher comprising:
    a transparent or translucent substrate defining an upper surface and a lower surface;
    an opaque layer applied to the lower surface of the substrate, the opaque layer defining one or more openings through which light can pass; Y
    one or more translucent metallic effect layers applied to the upper surface of the substrate.
    [26]
    26. The bezel of claim 25, wherein the one or more metal effect layers comprise one or more layers of metallic effect paint.
    [27]
    27. The bezel of claim 25, wherein the one or more metal effect layers comprise one or more layers of digitally printed metal effect material.
    [28]
    The trim of claim 26, wherein the one or more metallic effect layers comprise only one or more layers of metallic effect paint basecoat.
    [29]
    The trim of claim 26, wherein the one or more metallic effect layers comprise (i) a translucent primer layer applied to the upper surface of the substrate and (ii) one or more layers of translucent base coat paint of metallic effect paint applied to a top surface of the primer layer.
    [30]
    The trim of claim 29, wherein the one or more metallic effect layers further comprise a transparent or translucent top layer layer applied to an upper surface of the one or more layers of basecoat paint, wherein the upper layer layer protects and improves a metallic effect of one or more metallic effect layers.
    [31]
    The trim of claim 30, wherein at least one of the primer layer and the top layer comprises metallic particles to further improve the metallic effect of the one or more metallic effect layers.
    [32]
    32. The bezel of claim 30, wherein the top layer is at least one colored and dyed to further improve the metallic effect of the one or more metallic effect layers.
    [33]
    33. The trim of claim 25, wherein the trim is a selectively illuminating trim that further comprises a light source disposed below a bottom surface of the substrate, the light source being configured to emit light through the one or more openings defined by the opaque layer, the substrate, and the one or more metallic effect layers.
    [34]
    34. The bezel of claim 33, further comprising a light guide disposed between (i) the light source and (ii) the lower surface of the substrate and the opaque layer, the light guide being configured to distribute the output of the light source. light from the light source.
    [35]
    35. A method for manufacturing an embellisher for an object, the method comprising:
    providing a transparent or translucent substrate defining an upper surface and a lower surface;
    applying an opaque layer to the lower surface of the substrate, the opaque layer defining one or more openings through which light can pass; Y
    apply one or more translucent metallic effect layers to the upper surface of the substrate.
    [36]
    36. The method of claim 35, wherein the application of one or more metallic effect layers comprises the application of one or more layers of metallic effect paint.
    [37]
    37. The method of claim 35, wherein the application of one or more metallic effect layers comprises the digital printing of one or more layers of a metallic effect material.
    [38]
    38. The method of claim 36, wherein the one or more metallic effect layers comprise only one or more layers of metallic effect paint basecoat.
    [39]
    39. The method of claim 36, wherein the application of the one or more metallic effect layers comprises (i) applying a translucent primer layer applied to the upper surface of the substrate and (ii) applying one or more layers of Translucent basecoat paint of metallic effect paint applied to a top surface of the primer layer.
    [40]
    40. The method of claim 39, further comprising applying a transparent or translucent top layer layer applied to a top surface of the one or more layers of basecoat paint, wherein the topcoat layer protects and improves a metallic effect of one or more layers of metallic effect.
    [41]
    41. The method of claim 35, wherein the application of the opaque layer further comprises:
    apply an initial opaque layer that does not define the one or more openings; Y
    removing portions of the initial opaque layer corresponding to one or more openings and obtaining the opaque layer.
    [42]
    42. The method of claim 41, wherein the application of the initial opaque layer comprises spraying an opaque primer and curing the sprayed opaque primer to obtain the initial opaque layer.
    [43]
    43. The method of claim 42, wherein removing portions of the initial opaque layer comprises laser etching the initial opaque layer.
    [44]
    44. The method of claim 35, wherein the application of the opaque layer further comprises:
    apply a temporary mask layer to the lower surface of the substrate;
    apply an initial opaque layer by spraying an opaque primer over the surface bottom of the substrate and the temporary mask layer; Y
    Remove the temporary mask layer and portions of the initial opaque layer associated with it to obtain the opaque layer.
    [45]
    45. The method of claim 35, wherein the application of the opaque layer comprises the digital printing of an opaque material in portions of the upper surface of the substrate.
    [46]
    46. The method of claim 35, further comprising injection or compression molding, thermoforming, or additive manufacturing a plastic material to form the substrate.
    [47]
    47. The method of claim 35, wherein the trim is a trim that can be selectively illuminated, and the method further comprises arranging a light source beneath a bottom surface of the substrate, the light source being configured to emit light at through the substrate, one or more openings being defined by the opaque layer, and the one or more metallic effect layers.
    [48]
    48. The method of claim 47, further comprising arranging a light guide between the light source and the lower surface of the substrate, the light guide being configured to distribute the light output from the light source.
    [49]
    49. The method of claim 47, further comprising packaging the light source and embellisher that can be selectively illuminated in a single integrated module.
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    同族专利:
    公开号 | 公开日
    CN111065527A|2020-04-24|
    ES2693388A1|2018-12-11|
    KR20200036842A|2020-04-07|
    ES2706652R1|2019-04-09|
    EP3600909A1|2020-02-05|
    JP2020525326A|2020-08-27|
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    法律状态:
    2019-03-29| BA2A| Patent application published|Ref document number: 2706652 Country of ref document: ES Kind code of ref document: A2 Effective date: 20190329 |
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    优先权:
    申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
    ES201730785A|ES2693388A1|2017-06-09|2017-06-09|MOLDINGS OF METALLIC APPLIANCE TRANSLUCENT TO LIGHT AND MASKED FOR SELECTIVE LIGHTING |JP2020518596A| JP2020525326A|2017-06-09|2018-06-08|Trim with selectively illuminable metallic appearance and methods of making the same|
    PCT/IB2018/054160| WO2018225029A1|2017-06-09|2018-06-08|Selectively illuminable metallic looking trims and their methods of manufacture|
    EP18740643.4A| EP3600909A1|2017-06-09|2018-06-08|Selectively illuminable metallic looking trims and their methods of manufacture|
    KR1020207000434A| KR20200036842A|2017-06-09|2018-06-08|Optionally visible metal trim and method of manufacturing the same|
    CN201880038241.1A| CN111065527A|2017-06-09|2018-06-08|Metal color decoration capable of selective lighting and manufacturing method thereof|
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