EP3487930A1

EP3487930A1 - A method for decorating an accessory

Info

Publication number: EP3487930A1
Application number: EP16757952.3A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Eugenio MANFREDI; Paolo GUATTERI; Andrea LIVORNO; Maurizio NOTARI
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2016-07-21
Filing date: 2016-07-21
Publication date: 2019-05-29
Also published as: WO2018015789A1

Abstract

A process for decorating an accessory comprises the steps of: preparing a part (1 a) of an accessory; applying an adhesion promoter on a surface portion (2) of the part (1 a); and applying a transparent coating substance on the surface portion (2).

Description

TITLE

A Method for decorating an Accessory

DESCRIPTION

The present invention has for an object a method for decorating an accessory.

In particular, the invention finds application in many technical fields from fashion to automotive, and particularly, by way of non-limiting example, in the decoration of accessories such as glasses, bracelets, cuff links, earrings, jewelery, bags, shoes, jackets, helmets, scarves, ties, car seats or dashboards coatings, cases, watches, fittings, accessories for bathrooms or kitchens, and so forth.

In the following description reference will be made, by way of example, to a method for eyewear decoration, without this exemplification having to be construed as limiting the invention in any manner.

The optics industry is a continuously developing market that nowadays is addressed to and involves a large number of manufacturers, technicians and craftsmen of different sectors.

Now the use of this accessory has spread not only among people with optical disorders or dysfunctions who therefore require corrective lenses, but also among many people who use it as a simple fashion accessory. Over the last few years, the eyewear industry has pioneered in particular use of new materials and new technologies especially for manufacturing eyewear frames, trying to meet the needs of the consumers who are increasingly looking for always different types of fashionable flashy or non- flashy eyeglasses to be worn.

It should be appreciated that by the term eyeglass " frame" reference is made to the frame holding the lenses.

Nowadays eyewear frames have for the most part a black, gray or dark brown-tone; this typically dark colouring is due to use of dark-coloured raw materials the same frames are made of.

Thus, a drawback associated with this type of frame is the lack of variety in terms of customized decoration and coloring.

"Coloured" eyeglass frames are also known, i.e. characterized by a greater variety of vibrant colors, which are obtained with coloured plastic materials.

In addition, attempts have been made to colour the frames through the application of varnishes, which however are subject to several drawbacks such as poor resistance to scratching, abrasion, heat and sudden changes in temperature, all of which usually affecting a pair of eyeglasses during its life cycle.

It follows that short after the purchase, the eyeglass to which varnish was applied, may result aesthetically unacceptable due to wear, thus being replacement thereof necessary.

In this context, the technical task underpinning the present invention is to propose a method for decorating an accessory which overcomes one or more of the drawbacks of the prior art mentioned above.

In particular, it is an aim of the present invention to provide a method for decorating an accessory that allows to obtain an accessory that is durable and resistant to external agents.

A further object of the invention is to provide a method for decorating an accessory that permits the accessory to be customized with colouring of any kind whatsoever.

The technical task mentioned and the aims specified are substantially achieved by a method for decorating an accessory comprising the technical characteristics set out in claim 1 and by an eyewear frame realized in accordance with claim 13.

Further characteristics and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the indicative and therefore non-limiting description of a preferred embodiment of a method for decorating an accessory as illustrated in the appended figures wherein:

- Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of an accessory part during a step of the method for decorating an accessory according to the present invention, and

- Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of an accessory during a step of assembling the accessory.

With reference to Figure 2, it is depicted an accessory, particularly an eyeglass support frame 1 .

By way of non-limiting example, the accessories decorated according to the proposed method can be typically bracelets, sunglasses, cufflinks, earrings, jewelery, handbags, shoes, jackets, helmets, scarves, ties, eyewear, as well as coatings for cars seats or dashboards and cases for accessories in general.

The accessory to be decorated may be made of metal, such as aluminum, steel or titanium, or bakelite, cellulose acetate, optyl, leather, synthetic leather (e.g. Sky), ultem, wood, polymeric materials, nylon, fiber carbon, and more.

For the sake of simplicity, reference will be made henceforth to the case in which said accessory is an eyeglass support frame 1 without this having to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any manner.

The support frame 1 is preferably made of plastic, even more preferably it is obtained by a moulding process by injection.

However, as already mentioned, the frame 1 can be made of titanium, aluminum, acetate, and so on.

The method for decorating a support frame 1 according to the present invention comprises firstly the step of preparing at least a part 1 a of the eyeglass support frame 1 . With particular reference to the appended figures, by 1 a it is indicated an eyeglass temple.

For the purpose of decoration, the part 1 a is preferably resting on a bearing surface or is partially fastened to a coupling device not shown. Where the accessory is made of metal or of a plastic material, the method then comprises a step of superficially abrading at least a surface portion 2 of the part 1 a of the support frame 1 to be decorated.

The surface abrasion is preferably performed through the use of an abrasive material, for example a glass cloth.

The abrasion advantageously allows to obtain an irregular and rough surface in order that a suitable surface porosity is obtained for preparing the surface portion 2 to the subsequent steps of the method.

The method further comprises the step of removing the waste material resulting from the surface abrasion at the surface portion 2.

This step is preferably realized by cleaning the surface portion 2 applying a degreasing agent thereon, preferably by spray application.

In detail, the degreasing agent can be an organic solvent of the type adapted to be used as a thinner for polyurethane coatings and as a thinner for the cleaning of surfaces.

Note that in the case of leather accessories, or similar materials, the cleaning step is realized by using a non-silicone degreaser such as for example alcohol.

The method according to the present invention comprises the step of applying an adhesion promoter or primer.

In detail, the primer is preferably of the type suitable to the application on the following sub-layers: metal, leather, plastic materials such as glass- resin, epoxy resins, PVC, ABS and wood ...

The primer is preferably an isocyanate.

In particular, the step of applying the adhesion promoter is carried out after the step of removing the waste material.

Advantageously, applying the adhesion promoter improves the adhesion of the coating.

It should be appreciated that when the primer of the invention is applied to a substrate of the organic type, such as polymers, acetate or the like, a chemical interaction occurs therewith; this aspect shall be further discussed in greater detail.

Preferably, the method for decorating the support frame 1 further comprises the step of applying a coating 3 on the surface portion 2 of the part 1 a concerned and the following step of drying the surface portion 2 itself.

Preferably, the varnish is a two-component epoxy resin, but it may be a polyurethane resin or an acrylic substance.

Preferably the drying step is obtained by letting rest the part 1 a at 25°C for 8-10 hours and then put it in an oven, not shown in the appended figures, for a period of time comprised between 1 and 3 hours at a temperature of 60°C. Advantageously, the varnish 3 is characterized by excellent adhesion properties that allow a thorough adhesion to the surface portion 2 in addition to having a balanced-viscosity liquid consistency that ensures a uniform appearance in the surface portion 2 whereon it is applied.

Note that the varnish 3 herein described is bindable chemically to the primer, which in turn is capable of binding chemically to the organic substrate.

As a result, the part decorated according to the method of the invention acquires improved physical characteristics such as greater flexibility.

According to a possible embodiment of the varnish 3, the varnish 3 already comprises the primer therein; in other words, advantageously, the method for decorating can be shortened, thereby avoiding the need to perform the step of applying the adhesion promoter, in that the latter is already comprised in the resin-based varnish 3 which is used in the step of applying the varnish 3.

Advantageously, the varnish 3 is highly resistant to abrasion and scratches, thus being eyewear aesthetics deterioration prevented.

An outer layer of optimum coating and highly resistant to external agents is formed indeed following application of the varnish 3 on the surface portion

2 and after that the same is suitably dried.

The varnish 3 is advantageously highly resistant to heat and thermal shock, and this permits to manufacture eyewear intended to be used in the presence of extreme weather conditions. Furthermore, if the eyeglass were to be inadvertently forgotten in the hot summer sun, the eyeglass would not suffer any kind of physical and chromatic variation. Further, the eyeglass obtained by the method herein disclosed of decorating an object, may be exposed to the heat flows typically used for accommodating the structure of the support frames 1 (by way of "Frame heaters"), so that the eyeglass are capable of better suiting users' physiognomy. Advantageously, the varnish 3 forms an excellent protective layer of the part 1 a of the support frame 1 that is resistant to contact with aggressive chemical substances such as for example the solvents contained in the degreasing products for the cleaning of the lenses or of the eyewear frame.

Unlike traditional coatings, the application of the varnish 3 further allows the support frame 1 to not get damaged as a result of twisting and mechanical stress that affect eyeglass during their life cycle.

According to a possible embodiment of the present invention, the varnish 3 is applied preferably by means of atomization means 4. In particular, the atomization means 4 may include a varnishing tool of the so-called "low pressure" type, for example an airbrush 4a as shown in figure 1 . The step of applying the resin-based varnish 3 on the surface portion 2 is preferably carried out inside a powders suction chamber in order that possible leakage into the environment may be prevented.

Further, the amount of varnish 3 which is applied on the surface portion 2 is preferably equal to 250 g/m2; this value varies according to the type of varnish.

In practice, the varnish 3 used in the proposed method includes a two- component which is preferably characterized by the following technical features:

Ratio: 80-20;

Pot Life: 90 minutes 10/30°;

Curing: 72 hours;

Non-volatile particles: 65%;

Density at 20°: 1 .20 to 1 .50 kg/liter (depending on the colors);

Friction: dry 0,77 / Wet 0.49 (Leroux NSF); Resistance to abrasion 0.5 Grams loss of weight (Taber, H18 / 1 Kg /1000 rev.);

Color fastness: 8 (DIN 54004);

Chemical resistance: neutral cleaning agents;

Gloss: 5-15% (DIN 67530)

If one, by way of example, does not wish to color the accessory but rather make it more polished, varnish may also be omitted.

In this case, the transparent medium is applied directly to the primer.

Moreover, following the step of applying the varnish 3, the coating is applied via a so-called "transparent medium", namely a transparent coating substance which preferably is isocyanates catalyzed.

Preferably, the transparent medium comprises a catalyst, such as for example an isocyanate; also the transparent medium shall be subjected to a step of drying similar to that of the varnish.

In addition to making the eyeglass frame glossy, the transparent medium hereof permits to define a sort of external protection sheath which confers to the eyeglass an even greater resistance to scratches.

In other words, the primer, varnish and transparent medium layers chemically combine with each other, thereby defining a single coating for the eyeglass frame, wherein the eyeglass frame, if constituted by organic material, can be easily chemically integrated with the surface portion thereof.

Hence, thanks to the use of the varnish 3, the decoration method of the invention allows to advantageously obtain a large amount of color combinations and to customize the eyeglass support frame 1 according to the needs.

The eyeglass obtained by the method herein described, is resistant to ultrasonic cleaning.

After decorated the parts 1 a of the eyeglass support frame 1 , the operator proceeds to assemble the parts 1 a in order to have the eyeglass completely assembled. In Figure 2 it is shown a step of assembling eyewear temples according to the method described herein, in which the eyewear temples are assembled with the remaining part 1 a of the support frame 1 , in order that the eyeglass support frame 1 is obtained.

The present invention attains the proposed objects, thus overcoming the drawbacks which affect the prior art and providing the user with a method for decorating an accessory, in particular an eyeglass support frame 1 , which allows to obtain an extensively customized final product that at the same time is resistant to external agents.

The method for decorating an accessory just described is configured as a versatile method which can be advantageously employed in different sectors to decorate any type of accessory in a simple, practical and economical manner, so that a customized accessory is obtained that fits to any need of the consumer. In order to still further highlight the results obtained through use of the invention, a description is reported hereinafter of the mode adopted and the results obtained following some experiments by the Applicant. The materials used in the trials are the ones listed below. Substrate: eyeglass temples in acetate; injected eyeglass temples; metal eyeglass temples, eyeglass temples in TR90 (nylon and carbon fiber), black leather patches, blue leather patches, red leather patches, acetate raw slabs, aluminum raw slabs, eyeglass titanium frame, injected eyeglass frames, eyeglass steel frame, acetate eyeglass frames, Rayban eyeglass, eyeglass injected front parts.

Primer: Product SIKA, Primer-215; Thinner: CBR - KAR acrylic thinner - 30 loose.

Varnish: blue epoxy, SIKA - Pulastic Coating 221 -323 Midnight blue - code 8406; red epoxy, SIKA - Pulastic Linepaint - Oranje-red orange - code 9906; Yellow epoxy SIKA - Pulastic Linepaint - Yellow - code 9916; Blue Pearl acrylic ink - Bonny's form 28515; red acrylic, Lechler ink - fuchsia- colored brillant; acrylic yellow BSB - HS basecoat - 1023 verkehrsgelb. In addition it is used the catalyst 1 : SIKA - Pulastic Linepaint - B comp - code 2203. Used transparent medium: SIKA - Pulastic Coating OS /CL-GL Comp A; Catalyst 2: SIKA-Pulastic Coating OS/CL-GL Comp B.

Shown here are the tests carried out on eyeglass temples samples made of injected acetate and metal.

Method:

1 - The surface is sanded

2- The surface is cleaned with a light pass of solvent

3- the primer is sprayed with 20% thinner

4- 5 minute rest at 20°C

5- Second primer spraying with 20% thinner

6- 1 hour at rest at 20°C

7- the varnish is sprayed with 25% of catalyst 1 and 15% thinner

8- 5-minute at rest at 20°C

9- Second varnish spraying with 25% of catalyst 1 and 15% thinner 10- 1 night at rest at 20°C

1 1 - the transparent medium is sprayed with 25% catalyst 2 and 15% thinner

12- 5 minutes rest at 20°C

13- Second transparent spraying with 25% of catalyst 2 and 15% thinner 14- 1 night at rest at 20°C

15- 1 night in an oven at 80°C

16- 1 night in a freezer at 20°C minus

No Support Material Varnish Transparent Oven Freezer

Medium

1 temple acetate blue epoxy yes yes yes

2 temple acetate blue epoxy yes no no

3 temple acetate red epoxy yes yes yes

4 temple acetate red epoxy yes no no

5 temple acetate yellow epoxy yes yes yes

6 temple acetate yellow epoxy yes no no 7 temple acetate No yes yes yes

8 temple acetate No yes no no

9 temple injected blue epoxy yes yes yes

10 temple injected blue epoxy yes no no

1 1 temple injected red epoxy yes yes yes

12 temple injected red epoxy yes no no

13 temple injected yellow epoxy yes yes yes

14 temple injected yellow epoxy yes no no

15 temple injected No yes yes yes

16 temple injected No yes no no

17 temple metal blue epoxy Yes yes yes

18 temple metal blue epoxy yes no no

19 temple metal red epoxy yes yes yes

20 temple metal red epoxy yes no no

21 temple metal yellow epoxy yes yes yes

22 temple metal yellow epoxy yes no no

23 temple metal no yes yes yes

24 temple metal no yes no no

All tests were performed twice to assess a possible influence of the thermal stress on the tightness of the applied varnish. The temperatures taken into account refer to extreme cases such those for example, wherein a pair of glasses is forgotten a full day on the dashboard of a car in the sun, or wherein a pair of glasses is used in a winter day in the high mountains.

The temperature did not result in any visual change or resistance change. The abrasion resulting from contact with sharp plastic objects and fingernails did not cause any damage.

The extreme twisting test resulted in the temple breakage but even in this case the coating was not damaged. No damage has been produced following application of adhesive packaging tape then snatched quickly.

The final hammering test caused the rupture of the temples but still the varnish has resisted.

Shown here below are the tests carried out on samples of black, blue and red leather.

Method:

1 - the primer is sprayed with 20% thinner

2- 5 minutes rest at 20 °C

3- Second spraying of primer with 20% thinner

4- 1 hour at rest at 20°C

5- the varnish is sprayed with 25% of catalyst 1 and 15% thinner

6- 5-minute rest at 20°C

7- Second spraying of varnish with 25% of catalyst 1 and 15% thinner 8- 1 night at rest at 20°C

9- the transparent medium is sprayed with 25% of catalyst 2 and 15% thinner

10- 5 minutes rest at 20°C

1 1 - Second spraying of transparent medium with 25% of catalyst 2 and 15% thinner

12- 1 night at rest at 20°C

13- 1 night in an oven at 80°C

14- 1 night in a freezer at -20°C

No Support Material Varnish Transparent Oven Freezer medium

25 patch Black blue epoxy yes yes yes

leather

26 patch Black blue epoxy yes no no

leather

27 patch Black red epoxy yes yes yes leather

patch Black red epoxy yes no no leather

patch Black yellow epoxy yes yes yes leather

patch Black yellow epoxy yes no no leather

patch Black no yes yes yes leather

patch Black no yes no no leather

patch Blu blue epoxy yes yes yes leather

patch Blu blue epoxy yes no no leather

patch Blu red epoxy yes yes yes leather

patch Blu red epoxy yes no no leather

patch Blu yellow epoxy yes yes yes leather

patch Blu yellow epoxy yes no no leather

patch Blu no yes yes yes leather

patch Blu no yes No no leather

patch Red blue epoxy Yes yes yes leather

patch Red blue epoxy yes no no leather

43 patch Red red epoxy yes yes yes

leather

44 patch Red red epoxy yes no no

leather

45 patch Red yellow epoxy yes yes yes

leather

46 patch Red yellow epoxy yes no no

leather

47 patch Red no yes yes yes

leather

48 patch Red no yes no no

leather

All tests were performed twice to assess a possible influence of the thermal stress on the tightness of the varnish applied.

The temperatures taken into account refer to extreme cases such those for example of a leather purse forgot a full day on the dashboard of a car in the sun, or wherein a pair of leather gloves is used in a winter day in the high mountains.

The extreme twisting test did not produce any damage.

No damage has been produced by the application of adhesive packaging tape then snatched quickly.

The extreme hammering test did not produce any damage.

Shown here below are the tests performed on raw acetate and aluminum, slabs.

Method:

1 - The surface is sanded and cleaned with a light pass of solvent 2- the primer is sprayed with 20% thinner

3- 30 minutes at rest at 20°C

4- A- the epoxy varnish is sprayed with 25% of catalyst 1 and 15% thinner B- the acrylic varnish is sprayed with 80% thinner

5- 10 minutes rest at 20°C

6- 2 hours in an oven at 60°C

7- 15 minutes rest at 20°C

8- the transparent medium is sprayed with 25% of catalyst 2 and 15% thinner

9- 30 minutes at rest at 20°C

10- 1 hour in the oven at 60°C

1 1 - 1 night in an oven at 80 °C

12- 1 night in a freezer at -20 °C

No Support Material Varnish Transparent Oven Freezer medium

49 slab acetate blue epoxy yes yes yes

50 slab acetate blue epoxy yes no no

51 slab acetate red epoxy yes yes yes

52 slab acetate red epoxy yes no no

53 slab acetate yellow epoxy yes yes yes

54 slab acetate yellow epoxy yes no no

55 slab acetate blue acrylic yes yes yes

56 slab acetate blue acrylic yes no no

57 slab acetate red acrylic yes yes yes

58 slab acetate red acrylic yes no no

59 slab acetate yellow acrylic yes yes yes

60 slab acetate yellow acrylic yes no no

61 slab acetate no yes yes yes

62 slab acetate no yes no no

63 slab aluminum blue epoxy yes yes yes 64 slab aluminum blue epoxy yes no no

65 slab aluminum red epoxy yes yes yes

66 slab aluminum red epoxy yes no no

67 slab aluminum yellow epoxy yes yes yes

68 slab aluminum yellow epoxy yes no no

69 slab aluminum blue acrylic yes yes yes

70 slab aluminum blue acrylic yes no no

71 slab aluminum red acrylic yes yes yes

72 slab aluminum red acrylic yes no no

73 slab aluminum yellow acrylic yes yes yes

74 slab aluminum yellow acrylic yes no no

75 slab aluminum no yes yes no

76 slab aluminum no yes no no

The temperature did not result in any visual change or resistance change.

The abrasion resulting from contact with sharp plastic objects and fingernails did not cause any damage.

No damage has been produced by the application of adhesive packaging tape then snatched quickly. Even after producing cuts on the surface using a metal blade, application of the adhesive packaging tape then snatched quickly did not produce any damage.

Though the aluminum slabs were folded by means of pliers, the varnish was not damaged until the slab itself got broken.

The extreme hammering test resulted in the rupture of the temples but the varnish has resisted. The following aggressive chemical agents were tested (one drop of each chemical aggressive agent was left to act on each of the samples for 20 minutes):

I - aqueous solution at 1 pH (simulates the muriatic acid): no damage 2- aqueous solution at pH 4 (simulates acid sweat skin): no damage

3- aqueous solution at pH 9 (simulates basic soaps): no damage

4- Solvent (simulates the solvent for nail polish): leaves a halo on all samples but the resistance is higher than that of common eyeglass varnishes

5- Ethyl acetate (simulates the solvent for nail polish): no damage

6- Methyl ethyl ketone (simulates the solvent for nail polish): leaves a halo on all samples but the resistance is higher than that of common eyeglass varnishes

7- Facial creams: no damage

8- Ethanol: no damage

9- denatured Ethanol: no damage

10- Make-up Remover for eyes: no damage

I I - hypochlorite solution 10% (simulates bleach): no damage

12- Hair Dye: no damage

13- Hairspray: no damage

14- aqueous ammonia solution: no damage

Shown here are the tests carried out on a pair of titanium eyeglasses. Method:

1 - The surface is sanded and cleaned with a light solvent wipe 2- the primer is sprayed with 20% thinner

3- 30 minutes at rest at 20°C

4- 2 hours in an oven at 60°C

5- 15 minutes at rest at 20°C

6- the transparent medium is sprayed with 25% of catalyst 2 and 15% thinner

7- 30 minutes at rest at 20°C 8- 1 hour in the oven at 60°C

9- 1 night in an oven at 80°C

10- 1 night in a freezer at -20°C

The temperatures taken into account refer to extreme cases such those for example, wherein a pair of glasses is forgotten a full day on the dashboard of a car in the sun, or wherein a pair of glasses is used in a winter day in the high mountains.

The frame was bent with pliers and the transparent medium was not damaged.

The following aggressive chemical agents were then tested (one drop of each chemical aggressive agent was left acting on each of the samples for 20 minutes):

1 - aqueous solution at pH 1 (simulates the muriatic acid): no damage 2- aqueous solution at pH 4 (simulates skin acid sweat): no damage

3- aqueous solution at pH 9 (simulates the basic soaps): no damage

5- Ethyl acetate (simulates the solvent for nail polish): no damage

6- Methyl ethyl ketone (simulates the solvent for nail polish): leaves a halo on all samples but the resistance is higher than that of common eyeglass varnishes 7- Facial creams: no damage

8- Ethanol: no damage

9- denatured Ethanol: no damage

10- Make-up Remover for eyes: no damage

1 1 - hypochlorite solution at 10% (simulates bleach): no damage

12- Hair Dye: no damage

13- Hairspray: no damage

14- aqueous ammonia solution: no damage.

The testing on injected and steel eyeglasses are illustrated here below as follows:

Method:

- The surface is sanded and clean with a very light pass of solvent- the primer is sprayed with 20% thinner

- 30 minutes at rest at 20°C

- A- the epoxy varnish is sprayed with 25% of catalyst 1 and 20% thinner

B- the acrylic varnish is sprayed with 80% thinner

- 1 night at rest at 20 ° C

- the transparent medium is sprayed with 25% of catalyst 2 and 20% thinner

- 1 night at rest at 20 ° C

- 1 hour in the oven at 60°C

Support Material Varnish Transparent medium eyeglass injected blue epoxy yes

eyeglass injected red epoxy yes

eyeglass injected yellow epoxy yes

eyeglass injected blue acrylic yes

eyeglass injected red acrylic yes

eyeglass injected yellow acrylic yes 84 eyeglass injected no yes

85 eyeglass steel blue epoxy Yes

86 eyeglass steel yellow epoxy yes

87 eyeglass steel blue acrylic yes

88 eyeglass steel yellow acrylic yes

89 eyeglass steel no yes

The epoxy varnish was added 20% thinner instead of 15% to favor application of varnish: the results were ameliorative.

The yellow epoxy varnish has required a second coat both on injected eyeglass and on steel eyeglass in that it fails to provide a good coverage as the blue and red varnishes do, and this causes a tendency of the original color of the eyeglass to reemerge.

Even after the second coat, the yellow acrylic varnish fails to suitably cover both the injected eyeglass and the steel eyeglass which is instead the case of the blue and red varnish, it follows that the original eyeglass color tends to reemerge.

The steel eyeglasses were folded and deformed with the varnish having not been damaged.

The lenses repeatedly assembled on the eyeglass and removed therefrom, have not scratched the varnish.

Shown here below are the tests performed on the front parts of injected eyeglass.

Method:

1 - The surface is sanded and clean with a very light pass of solvent 2- the primer is sprayed without being any thinner contained therein

3- 30 minutes at rest at 20°C

4- A- the epoxy varnish is sprayed with 25% of catalyst 1 and 25% thinner

B- the epoxy varnish is sprayed with 25% of catalyst 1 and 30% thinner C- the epoxy varnish is sprayed with 25% of catalyst 1 and 35% thinner

D- the epoxy varnish is sprayed with 25% of catalyst 1 and 40% thinner

E- the acrylic varnish is sprayed with 70% thinner

F- the acrylic varnish is sprayed with 60% thinner

G the acrylic varnish is sprayed with 50% thinner

H-the acrylic varnish is sprayed with 40% thinner

5- 1 night at rest at 20°C

6- 3 hours in an oven at 60°C

7- the transparent medium is sprayed with 50% of catalyst 2 and 30 thinner%

8- 1 night at rest at 20°C

9- 3 hour in an oven at 60°C

No Support Material Varnish Thinner Transparent medium

90 Front part injected blue epoxy 25% yes

91 Front part injected blue epoxy 30% no

92 Front part injected blue epoxy 35% yes

93 Front part injected blue epoxy 40% no

94 Front part injected red epoxy 25% yes

95 Front part injected red epoxy 30% no

96 Front part injected red epoxy 35% yes

97 Front part injected red epoxy 40% no

98 Front part injected yellow epoxy 25% yes

99 Front part injected yellow epoxy 30% no

100 Front part injected yellow epoxy 35% yes

101 Front part injected yellow epoxy 40% no

102 Front part injected blue acrylic 70% yes 103 Front part injected blue acrylic 60% no

104 Front part injected blue acrylic 50% yes

105 Front part injected blue acrylic 40% No

106 Front part injected red acrylic 70% yes

107 Front part injected red acrylic 60% no

108 Front part injected red acrylic 50% yes

109 Front part injected red acrylic 40% no

1 10 Front part injected yellow acrylic 70% yes

1 1 1 Front part injected yellow acrylic 60% no

1 12 Front part injected yellow acrylic 50% yes

1 13 Front part injected yellow acrylic 40% no

1 14 Front part injected NO NO yes

An attempt was made to gradually increase the dilution of the epoxy varnish in order to try to better apply the latter (see evidences in previous tests from 78 to 89) and to decrease the quantity of the varnish used.

An attempt was made to gradually decrease the dilution of acrylic varnish in order to try to better apply the same and to decrease the quantity of the varnish used. This is because the effect obtained by varying the dilution of the acrylic varnish is in fact in contrast to the effect that is obtained by varying the dilution of the epoxy varnish.

Between the steps of applying the varnish and preparing the transparent medium, it was preferred to keep the samples in an oven so as to facilitate the varnish drying process: the results have been ameliorative.

The composition of the transparent medium mixture was changed, i.e.: the catalyst amount was increased for promoting the drying process and the thinner amount was increased as well in order for it to maintain smooth applicability. The result was satisfactory in that smooth applicability of the transparent medium was maintained and all eyeglass front parts were perfectly dried.

The lens repeatedly inserted into each of the eyeglass front parts and removed therefrom have not scratched the varnish nor the transparent medium.

Following each dilution, the blue epoxy varnish lead to satisfactory results, the best sample appears the sample 93.

The red epoxy varnish has given good results up to 30% of thinner, after that the underlying color begins to become visible, the best sample appears to be the sample 95.

The blue acrylic varnish worked well following each dilution, the best sample appears the sample 103.

Accelerated aging tests were performed on the samples 90, 94, 98, 102, 106, 1 10 and 1 14 which did not cause any damage of the same.

Illustrated here below are the testing made on colored acetate eyeglass temples.

Method:

1 - The surface is sanded and clean with a light pass of solvent

2- the primer is sprayed without solvent

3- 30 minutes at rest at 20 °C

4- A- the epoxy varnish is sprayed with 25% of catalyst 1 and 25% thinner B- the epoxy varnish is sprayed with 25% of catalyst 1 and 30% thinner C- the epoxy varnish is sprayed with 25% of catalyst 1 and 35% thinner D- the epoxy varnish is sprayed with 25% of catalyst 1 and 40% thinner E- the acrylic varnish is sprayed with 70% thinner

F- the acrylic varnish is sprayed with 60% thinner

G- the acrylic varnish is sprayed with 50% thinner

H- the acrylic varnish is sprayed with 40% thinner

5- 1 night at rest at 20 °C

6- 3 hours in an oven at 60 °C

7- the transparent medium is sprayed with 50% of catalyst 2 and 30%thinner

8- 1 night at rest at 20 °C

9- 3 hour in an oven at 60 °C Support Material Varnish Thinner Transparent medium temples Coloured blue epoxy 25% yes

acetate

temples Coloured blue epoxy 30% no

acetate

temples Coloured blue epoxy 35% yes

acetate

temples Coloured blue epoxy 40% no

acetate

temples Coloured red epoxy 25% yes

acetate

temples Coloured red epoxy 30% yes

acetate

temples Coloured red epoxy 35% yes

acetate

temples Coloured red epoxy 40% yes

acetate

temples Coloured yellow epoxy 25% yes

acetate

temples Coloured yellow epoxy 30% yes

acetate

temples Coloured yellow epoxy 35% yes

acetate

temples Coloured yellow epoxy 40% yes

acetate

temples Coloured blue acrylic 70% yes

acetate

temples Coloured blue acrylic 60% yes acetate

129 temples Coloured blue acrylic 50% yes

acetate

130 temples Coloured blue acrylic 40% yes

acetate

131 temples Coloured red acrylic 70% yes

acetate

132 temples Coloured red acrylic 60% yes

acetate

133 temples Coloured red acrylic 50% yes

acetate

134 temples Coloured red acrylic 40% yes

acetate

135 temples Coloured yellow acrylic 70% yes

acetate

136 temples Coloured yellow acrylic 60% yes

acetate

137 temples Coloured yellow acrylic 50% yes

acetate

138 temples Coloured no no yes

acetate

Each of the samples was tested with the attempt being made of engraving the surface by way of the edge of a lens however there have been no damage.

The blue epoxy varnish has produced good results by each dilution, the best sample appears the sample 1 16.

The red epoxy varnish has produced good results by each dilution, the best sample appears the sample 1 19.

The yellow epoxy varnish produced good results at high dilution and the best sample appears the sample 126. At a low dilution degree (samples 123 and 124) the varnish is rough.

The blue acrylic varnish has given good results by each dilution, the best sample appears the sample 130.

The red acrylic varnish has given good results by a 60% or even higher dilution. The best sample appears the sample 132.

The yellow acrylic varnish produced some drawbacks due to the fact that it left the underlying color transpire probably because of a reaction with the underlying varnish.

When etched with the edge of the lenses, the sample 138 coated with the transparent medium only, does not scratch.

Shown here below is the testing made on TR90 eyeglass temples. Method:

1 - The surface is sanded and clean with a very light pass of solvent

2- the primer is sprayed without any thinner being contained therein

3- 30 minutes at rest at 20 °C

F- the acrylic varnish is sprayed with 60% thinner

G the acrylic varnish is sprayed with 50% thinner

H- the acrylic varnish is sprayed with 40% thinner

5- 1 night at rest at 20°C

6- 3 hours in an oven at 60°C

7- the transparent medium is sprayed with 50% of catalyst 2 and 30% thinner

8- 1 night at rest at 20 °C

9- 3 hours in oven at 60°C No Support Material Varnish Thinner Transparent medium

139 temples TR90 blue epoxy 25% yes

140 temples TR90 blue epoxy 30% no

141 temples TR90 blue epoxy 35% yes

142 temples TR90 blue epoxy 40% no

143 temples TR90 red epoxy 25% yes

144 temples TR90 red epoxy 30% yes

145 temples TR90 red epoxy 35% yes

146 temples TR90 red epoxy 40% yes

147 temples TR90 yellow epoxy 25% yes

148 temples TR90 yellow epoxy 30% yes

149 temples TR90 yellow epoxy 35% yes

150 temples TR90 yellow epoxy 40% yes

151 temples TR90 blue acrylic 70% yes

152 temples TR90 blue acrylic 60% yes

153 temples TR90 blue acrylic 50% yes

154 temples TR90 blue acrylic 40% yes

155 temples TR90 red acrylic 70% yes

156 temples TR90 red acrylic 60% yes

157 temples TR90 red acrylic 50% yes

158 temples TR90 red acrylic 40% yes

159 temples TR90 yellow acrylic 70% yes

160 temples TR90 yellow acrylic 60% yes

161 temples TR90 yellow acrylic 50% yes

162 temples TR90 yellow acrylic 40% yes

163 temples TR90 no no yes

Each of the samples was tested with the attempt being made of engraving the surface with the edge of a lens, wherein no damage occured. The blue epoxy varnish has worked well by each dilution, the best sample is the sample 140.

The red epoxy varnish has worked well by each dilution, the best sample is the sample 146.

The yellow epoxy varnish has worked well by each dilution, the best sample is the sample 148.

The blue acrylic varnish worked well by each dilution, the best sample is the sample 152.

On the support TR90 as well as on the acetate, the yellow epoxy varnish performs a good coverage function.

The sample 163, exhibiting the only transparent medium, crumpled by effect of a reaction with the base material, however the sample 163 does not scratch when etched with the edge of the lenses.

Illustrated here below are the tests made on white acetate eyeglass temples.

Method:

1 - The surface is sanded and clean with a very light pass of solvent

2- the primer is sprayed without any thinner being contained therein

3- 30 minutes at rest at 20 °C

F- the acrylic varnish is sprayed with 60% thinner

G the acrylic varnish is sprayed with 50% thinner

H- the acrylic varnish is sprayed with 40% thinner

5- 1 night at rest at 20 °C

6- 3 hours in an oven at 60 °C

7- the transparent medium is sprayed with 50% of catalyst 2 and 30% thinner 8- 1 night at rest at 20 °C

9- 3 hours in an oven at 60 °C

No Support Material Varnish Thinner Transparent medium

164 temples Transparent blue epoxy 25% yes

acetate

165 temples Transparent blue epoxy 30% no

acetate

166 temples Transparent blue epoxy 35% yes

acetate

167 temples Transparent blue epoxy 40% no

acetate

168 temples Transparent red epoxy 25% yes

acetate

169 temples Transparent red epoxy 30% yes

acetate

170 temples Transparent red epoxy 35% yes

acetate

171 temples Transparent red epoxy 40% yes

acetate

172 temples Transparent yellow 25% yes

acetate epoxy

173 temples Transparent yellow 30% yes

acetate epoxy

174 temples Transparent yellow 35% yes

acetate epoxy

175 temples Transparent yellow 40% yes

acetate epoxy

176 temples Transparent blue acrylic 70% yes acetate

177 temples Transparent blue acrylic 60% yes

acetate

178 temples Transparent blue acrylic 50% yes

acetate

179 temples Transparent blue acrylic 40% yes

acetate

180 temples Transparent red acrylic 70% yes

acetate

181 temples Transparent red acrylic 60% yes

acetate

182 temples Transparent red acrylic 50% yes

acetate

183 temples Transparent red acrylic 40% yes

acetate

184 temples Transparent yellow 70% yes

acetate acrylic

185 temples Transparent yellow 60% yes

acetate acrylic

186 temples Transparent yellow 50% yes

acetate acrylic

187 temples Transparent yellow 40% yes

acetate acrylic

188 temples Transparent no no yes

acetate

Each of the samples was tested with the attempt being made of engraving the surface with the edge of a lens but there have been no damage.

The blue epoxy varnish has worked well at each dilution, the best sample is the sample 167.

The red epoxy varnish has worked well by each dilution, the best sample is the sample 169.

The yellow epoxy varnish has worked well by each dilution, the best sample is the sample 175.

The blue acrylic varnish worked well by each dilution, the best sample is the sample 179.

The red acrylic varnish worked well by each dilution, the best sample is the sample 180.

The yellow acrylic varnish worked well by each dilution, the best sample is the sample 184.

On the transparent acetate base all varnishes tested, i.e. epoxy and acrylic varnishes, perform a good covering function.

When etched with the edge of the lenses, the sample 188 coated with the transparent medium only, does not scratch.

On the samples 164, 168, 172, 176, 180, 184 and 188 accelerated aging tests were performed and and no damage occured.

Illustrated here below are the tests carried out on transparent acetate eyeglasses.

Method:

1 - The surface is sanded and clean with a light pass of solvent

2- the primer is sprayed without any thinner being contained therein

3- 30 minutes at rest at 20 °C

4- A- the epoxy varnish is sprayed with 25% of catalyst 1 and 25% thinner B- the epoxy varnish is sprayed with 25% of catalyst 1 and 35% thinner C- the acrylic varnish is sprayed with 60% thinner

5- 1 night at rest at 20 °C

6- 3 hours in an oven at 60°C

7- the transparent medium is sprayed with 50% of catalyst 2 and 30% thinner

8- 1 night at rest at 20 °C

9- 3 hours in an oven at 60 °C No Support Material Varnish Thinner Transparent medium

189 eyeglass Transparent blue epoxy 25% yes

acetate

190 eyeglass Transparent blue epoxy 35% yes

acetate

191 eyeglass Transparent red epoxy 25% yes

acetate

192 eyeglass Transparent red epoxy 35% yes

acetate

193 eyeglass Transparent yellow 25% yes

acetate epoxy

194 eyeglass Transparent yellow 35% yes

acetate epoxy

195 eyeglass Transparent blue acrylic 60% yes

acetate

196 eyeglass Transparent red acrylic 60% yes

acetate

197 eyeglass Transparent yellow 60% yes

acetate acrylic

198 eyeglass Transparent no no yes

acetate

Despite the lenses being repeatedly fitted on the eyeglass and removed therefrom, the varnish was not scratched even with the eyeglass being heated on the frame heaters.

The blue epoxy varnish produced good results, the best sample is the sample 189.

The red epoxy varnish produced good results, the best sample is the sample 192.

The yellow epoxy varnish produced good results, the best sample is the sample 193.

The blue acrylic varnish has given good results.

The red varnish does not scratch the lenses.

The yellow acrylic varnish has given good results.

On clear acetate base all varnishes tested, i.e. epoxy and acrylic varnishes, perform a good covering function.

On all samples, accelerated aging tests were performed which did not provoke any damage.

Claims

1. A method for decorating an accessory comprising the steps of:

- preparing at least one part (1 a) of an accessory;

- applying an adhesion promoter on at least one surface portion (2) of said part (1 a);

- applying a transparent coating substance on said surface portion (2).

2. A method according to the preceding claim, wherein said adhesive substance includes isocyanates.

3. A method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein said transparent coating substance includes a catalyst, preferably isocyanate.

4. A method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the transparent coating substance has a carbonyl functionality.

5. A method according to at least one of the preceding claims, in which, prior to applying said transparent substance, a varnish (3) is applied to said surface portion (2), such varnish being covered by the transparent substance.

6. A method according to at least one of the preceding claims, comprising an initial step of surface abrasion of the surface portion (2) of said at least one part (1 a) of the accessory to be decorated.

7. A method according to at least one of the preceding claims, comprising a step of drying of said at least one surface portion of the (2).

8. A method according to at least one of claims 4 to 6, wherein said varnish is a two-component epoxy type.

9. A method according to at least one of the preceding claims, in which said part (1 a) of accessory is made of one or more of the following materials: acetate, injected polymer, nylon, carbon fiber, leather, synthetic leather, steel, aluminum, titanium.

10. A method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein said varnish (3) is applied via atomization means.

11. A method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein said drying step is obtained by disposing the accessory part (1 a) in an oven at a temperature of 25°C for 8 - 10 hours, and then at 60°C for a time period comprised between 1 and 3 hours.

12. A method according to at least one of the preceding claims, in which said part (1 a) of said accessory is a component of an eyeglass support frame (1 ), which constitutes the said accessory.

13. A method according to the preceding claim, comprising a step of assembling, wherein a plurality of parts (1 a) is co-assembled, thereby defining the frame (1 ).

14. An eyeglass support frame (1 ) obtained via a method according to one or more of the preceding claims.