JP2006231778A - Graphics film and graphics product - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a graphics film in which the conformation of a graphics film designed so as to stick on a colored adherend is taken, both color of an adherend and color of a graphics film can be employed efficiently, coordination of color is easily possible, attractive coloring and appearance which are not conventionally experienced can be attained, and which is excellent also in versatility. <P>SOLUTION: The graphics film comprises at least a transparent coloring layer containing an inorganic or organic filler of glittering nature and/or light interference preferably in the form of a transparent coloring coating layer or a coloring film layer on a transparent adhesive layer. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a graphics film. More specifically, the present invention relates to a color of an adherend when it is attached to a colored adherend (for example, an automobile body, an outer wall of a building, etc.) and the configuration of the graphics film. The present invention relates to a graphics film capable of exhibiting a new color development and appearance that are excellent in glitter and light interference properties by the interaction of the members' colors. The present invention also relates to a graphics product using such a graphics film. The graphics film of the present invention can be advantageously used as an alternative to stripes, emblems, two-tone coatings, etc., for example, in automobile bodies.

  As is well known, in general graphics in the past, the colors on a substrate with various colors and paints, coatings, etc. with various colors arbitrarily applied to the surface of the substrate. It is the mainstream to select and apply appropriate color paints and inks according to the situation. However, in this method, it is necessary to prepare an optimal base material, painting, coating film, etc. according to a wide variety of desired graphics, and the production of graphics and the preparation before that are very complicated. . In addition, since a method of applying paint or ink is adopted, there is a limit to the appearance that can be obtained, and not only brand-new graphics cannot be obtained, but also applicable graphics and substrates are limited. Here, although it is possible to use different colors and coordinates for pigments and dyes used in paints and inks, it is necessary to adjust the color according to the color of the base material, paint, paint film, etc. . In addition, as the size of graphics increases, manufacturing becomes more difficult and an increase in cost cannot be avoided.

  By the way, although it is not directly related to the graphics film of the present invention, an example using a material similar to the glittering and light-interfering filler used in the practice of the present invention is known, so that Explained.

  Patent Document 1 describes a glittering decorative powder used in decorations and paints for toys, clothing, wall cloths, car bodies, and the like, and a method for producing the same. Accordingly, the present invention provides a film made of the first synthetic resin, a thin film made of the second synthetic resin provided on the main surface and embossed, and a metal or metal oxide thin film deposited thereon. The glittering decorative powder is characterized by having a thickness of 30 μm or less.

  Patent Document 2 describes a card such as a bank card or a credit card that prints and uses a large amount of information and is difficult to forge. Therefore, the present invention is such that a glittering layer in which a glittering pigment is dispersed in a transparent resin is laminated on a card substrate, and the concealing pigment is contained in the transparent resin on the glittering layer in the previous period. And a concealing pattern layer composed of an image line part and a non-image line part for concealing the lower layer, and a dye on the concealing pattern layer and the glitter layer in the non-image part. The card is characterized in that a dye-receiving layer mainly composed of a receptive transparent resin and capable of receiving a moving dye is laminated.

JP-A-11-7231 (Claims, paragraphs 0001, 0010 to 0011) JP 2001-171272 (Claims, paragraphs 0001, 0026 to 0028)

  The object of the present invention is to make use of both the color of an adherend and the color of a graphics film in a graphics film designed to be attached to a colored adherend, in other words, color coordination is easy. Another object of the present invention is to provide a graphics film capable of achieving an attractive color development and appearance that has not been experienced in conventional products.

  Another object of the present invention is to provide a graphics film that is highly versatile, can be applied to adherends and graphics films having various colors, and is easy to manufacture and handle. . In particular, the present invention provides a graphics film that can quickly and reliably perform affixing operations on various adherends including adherends having a curved structure, and that does not cause inconvenience such as air biting. There is to do.

  It is another object of the present invention to provide a graphics film having a high-quality, soft nuance appearance utilizing the color of the adherend and the graphics film, for example, a monotone approximate color-to-tone.

  Furthermore, an object of the present invention is to provide an advantageous method of using the graphics film of the present invention and a graphics product using the same, having a color coordinated appearance and a high quality and soft nuance. is there.

  These and other objects of the present invention will be readily understood from the following detailed description.

  In one aspect, the present invention is used by being attached to the surface of a colored adherend, and on the transparent adhesive layer, the glittering and / or light-interfering inorganic or A graphics film comprising at least a transparent coloring layer containing an organic filler.

  In another aspect, the present invention comprises an adherend comprising a colored substrate and the graphics film of the present invention affixed at least partially to the surface of the adherend. In the featured graphics product.

  Here, the term “transparent” is used in a broad sense, and a film layer, a coloring layer, etc. are transmitted in a state in which the color, coating color, etc. of the underlying layer located below those layers are left as they are or slightly reduced. It means that it has a degree of transparency. That is, the transparent film layer, color developing layer, and the like used in the present invention can be used without any problem as long as they are almost transparent, depending on the visual effect required for the graphics film and its use. If desired, the film layer, the color developing layer, and the like may be opaque so long as the effects of the present invention are not adversely affected and a better visual effect is expected.

  According to the present invention, as will be understood from the following detailed description, when affixed to a colored adherend, the color of the adherend and the color of the member of the graphics film interact with each other. Thus, it is possible to provide a graphics film capable of presenting a new color development and appearance excellent in glitter and light interference.

  In the case of the graphics film of the present invention, since the various colors of the adherend and the various colors of the members of the graphics film can be interacted with each other, it is not anticipated by the conventional technology. A completely new coloring effect can be obtained. Specifically, when applied to various adherends, it is possible to obtain a high-quality and soft nuanced color coordinate, for example, a monotone-like, approximate color two-tone substitute (which can be substituted for two-tone coating).

  Further, in the graphics film of the present invention, the appearance defect derived from the structural problem inherent in the graphics film, for example, the structure of the adhesive layer or the surface of the adhesive layer is dispersed for improving the slidability. Even when there is a poor appearance of the transparent film portion derived from the glass beads, the coloring components exhibiting the glitter and light interference properties can suppress the poor appearance and make it inconspicuous with the naked eye. In addition, since the appearance defect of the transparent part of the film can be prevented or suppressed to a low level, the graphics film of the present invention in a new technical field that has not been applied in the prior art due to such an appearance defect. The use of can be proposed.

  Furthermore, the graphics film of the present invention can be easily manufactured because it can form a transparent coloring layer simply by printing ink containing coloring components exhibiting glitter and light interference by, for example, screen printing. And can be manufactured inexpensively and efficiently. Furthermore, since the graphics film of the present invention can be produced advantageously and easily in this way, there is no limitation on the adherend to be applied, and therefore advantageous for producing various graphics products. It can be applied to.

  Furthermore, in the graphics film of the present invention, when a fine uneven structure is provided in the adhesive layer, air (bubbles) does not enter under the adhesive layer when it is applied to an adherend, In some cases, even if air bubbles enter, it can be easily pushed out through the concavo-convex structure (communication groove) in the pasting process (that is, the air can be easily removed), and the adhesive used to discharge the air bubbles Since the fine communication groove of the layer can be eliminated after the completion of the sticking, it does not cause adverse effects such as light scattering. In addition, even if the communication groove partially remains, or even if the remaining portion is a film transparent portion where the communication groove is easily noticeable, the graphics film of the present invention has glitter and light interference. Since the coloring component exhibiting the properties conceals the communication grooves, no inconvenience in appearance occurs.

  In addition, the graphics film of the present invention can be advantageously used as an alternative to stripes, emblems, two-tone coatings, etc., especially in the automotive industry. In particular, since the graphics film of the present invention can be applied to various body colors, it can be advantageously applied to various types of automobiles as well. That is, the graphics film of the present invention is versatile and can provide a graphics product at low cost.

  The present invention is used by being attached to the surface of a colored adherend, and contains a glittering and / or light-interfering inorganic or organic filler on a transparent adhesive layer. A graphics film comprising at least a transparent coloring layer, an adherend comprising a colored substrate, and the graphics of the present invention affixed at least partially on the surface of the adherend A graphics product characterized by comprising a film. Although the graphics film and the graphics product of the present invention can each be advantageously implemented in various forms, exemplary embodiments will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a preferred embodiment of a graphics film according to the present invention. In the figure, a graphics product produced by applying this graphics film to the surface of an adherend is also shown. The illustrated graphics film is a stripe material affixed to the side surface of an automobile body in order to obtain a two-tone color pattern having a monotone approximate color.

  The illustrated graphics product (an automobile body having a two-tone color pattern) 20 is made of a coated steel plate 1. Although not shown, the coated steel plate 1 is subjected to primer coating, intermediate coating, top coating and the like on the steel plate 1 according to a conventional method. Therefore, the coated steel sheet 1 can visually recognize the uppermost coating color A with the naked eye as shown by a dotted arrow on the right side of the drawing when the graphics film 10 is not attached to the surface thereof.

  The graphics film 10 includes, in order from the bottom, a transparent adhesive layer 2, a transparent film layer 3, a transparent coloring layer 4 containing a glittering and / or light-interfering inorganic or organic filler 6, and a clear film. Layer 5 is provided. The illustrated coloring layer 4 is a coloring coating layer made of a transparent synthetic resin coating in which a lustrous and light-interfering pearl pigment powder is dispersedly contained as a filler 6. Although the graphics film 10 may not be self-supporting with only these four layers, the graphics film 10 is usually bonded with a release liner described below from the manufacturing stage to just before use. Since the agent layer 2 is protected, the release liner acts as a support and the handling property is not impaired.

When the coated steel sheet 1 is observed from above with the graphics film 10 attached to the surface thereof, as shown by the solid arrow on the left side of the figure, the topmost coating color A is another attractive second. it can be viewed with the naked eye as a coating color A _1. This is because the coating color A is optically changed by the action of the brilliant and light-interfering pearl pigment powder as a result of observation through the transparent coloring coating layer 4. The second paint color A ₁ is also changed by the observer's viewing angle of viewing light incidence angle and its relative graphics film 10, in which case, different from the case shown, rich in variety You can get a new and attractive appearance. Incidentally, in either case, the second paint color A ₁ is, it is possible to indicate a new color in a state which utilizes as the characteristics of the uppermost coating color A, thereby advantageously reflected in the appearance obtained Can do.

Further, in the case of the illustrated embodiment, in addition to being able to visually recognize the second paint color A ₁ derived from the painted steel plate 1 on the upper surface of the graphics film 10, a color-forming coating containing a pearl pigment powder having glitter and light interference properties luster derived from the layer 4, the optical interference color B ₁ can also be viewed together. Here, bright, light interference color B ₁ represents mainly glitter, based on the action of light interference pearl pigment powder, since this is subjected to any further second action of paint color A _1, soft fine It can greatly contribute to nuance color coordination. Again, as in the case of the second paint color A ₁ described above, the brightness and the light interference color B ₁ also change depending on the incident angle of light with respect to the graphics film 10 and the observation angle of the observer who sees it. In that case, it is possible to obtain a variety of new and attractive appearance different from the case shown in the figure. In addition, regarding the appearance improving effect derived from the color coating layer 4, whether the improving effect is good or bad will depend on the selection of the pearl pigment powder and the definition of the content thereof, as will be described below.

In addition, in the illustrated embodiment, the second paint color A ₁ and luster, light interference colors B ₁ is interact to organically combine and mutually, failed to express each color alone A new appearance can be obtained. That is, in the conventional two-tone coating, since two types of powder paints are used and coating is performed at the parting line L of the coated steel sheet 1, typically, as shown in two colors of black and white of a patrol car. Although a clear two-tone color pattern is obtained, when the technique of applying the graphics film of the present invention to the vehicle body is adopted, the coating color A derived from the coated steel sheet 1 is visually recognized in one region, and the parting line In the other region divided by L, the combination of the second paint color A ₁ and the glitter and light interference color B ₁ is visually recognized, so that it is a monotone approximate color that has never been experienced in conventional two-tone paint. The two-tone color pattern can be obtained. In addition, the conventional method generally recognizes that a high-quality appearance cannot be obtained in a vehicle body with a graphics film attached, but in the present invention, the color coordination of high-quality soft nuances is achieved. Since it is possible, it is possible to wipe out the conventional recognition and create a new design. Of course, the graphics film of the present invention is easy to handle, and can be applied to the vehicle body without failure even by non-experts, so the process is simpler and more economical than two-tone coating, and versatility is great. .

  FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating another preferred form of the graphics film according to the present invention. As in FIG. 1, the graphics film 10 is used to obtain a two-tone color pattern of a monotone approximate color. The stripe product affixed to the side of the automobile body, and the graphics product 20 is an automobile body provided with a two-tone color pattern. The car body is made of the coated steel plate 1 and when the graphics film 10 is not affixed to the surface, as shown by the dotted arrow on the right side of the figure, the uppermost coating color A can be visually recognized with the naked eye. it can.

  The graphics film 10 includes, in order from the bottom, a transparent adhesive layer 2, a transparent coloring layer 13 containing a glittering and / or light-interfering inorganic or organic filler 6, and a clear layer 5. Yes. The illustrated coloring layer 13 is a coloring film layer made of a transparent synthetic resin in which a lustrous and light-interfering pearl pigment powder is dispersedly contained as a filler 6. Although the graphics film 10 may not be self-supporting with only these three layers, the graphics film 10 is usually bonded with a release liner described below from the manufacturing stage to just before use. Since the agent layer 2 is protected, the release liner acts as a support and the handling property is not impaired.

When the coated steel sheet 1 is observed from above with the graphics film 10 attached to the surface thereof, as shown by the solid arrow on the left side of the figure, the topmost coating color A is another attractive second. it can be viewed with the naked eye as a coating color A _2. This is because the coating color A is optically changed by the action of the brilliant and light-interfering pearl pigment powder as a result of observation through the transparent coloring film layer 13. The second paint color A ₂ are also changed by the observer's viewing angle of viewing light incidence angle and its relative graphics film 10, in which case, different from the case shown, rich in variety You can get a new and attractive appearance. Incidentally, in either case, the second paint color A _2, since it is possible to indicate a new color in a state which utilizes as the characteristics of the uppermost coating color A, thereby advantageously reflected in the appearance obtained Can do.

Further, in the case of the illustrated embodiment, basically, as in the embodiment of FIG. 1, the second coating color A ₁ derived from the coated steel sheet 1 can be visually recognized on the upper surface of the graphics film 10, and the glitter Further, the brightness and the light interference color B ₂ derived from the color developing film layer 13 containing the light interference pearl pigment powder can also be visually recognized. Here, the glitter and light interference color B ₂ are mainly based on the action of the glitter and light interference pearl pigment powder, and further the action of the second coating color A ₂ is added thereto. It can greatly contribute to nuance color coordination. Here again, as in the case of the second paint color A ₂ described above, the brightness and the light interference color B ₂ also change depending on the incident angle of light with respect to the graphics film 10 and the observation angle of the observer who sees it. In that case, it is possible to obtain a variety of new and attractive appearance different from the case shown in the figure. In addition, regarding the appearance improving effect derived from the color developing film layer 13, whether the improving effect is good or bad will depend on the selection of the pearl pigment powder and the definition of the content thereof, as will be described below.

In addition, in the illustrated embodiment, the second paint color A ₂ and luster, light interference color B ₂ is interact to organically combine and mutually, failed to express each color alone A new appearance can be obtained. That is, when the technique of sticking the graphics film of the present invention to the vehicle body is adopted, the coating color A derived from the coated steel plate 1 is visually recognized in one region, and the other region divided by the parting line L is the first. 2 of paint color a ₂ and luster, because the combination of the optical interference color B ₂ is visually recognized, which has not been experienced in the conventional two-tone coating method, it is possible to obtain a two-tone pattern of monotone approximation color . In addition, the conventional method generally recognizes that a high-quality appearance cannot be obtained in a vehicle body with a graphics film attached, but in the present invention, the color coordination of high-quality soft nuances is achieved. Since it is possible, it is possible to wipe out the conventional recognition and create a new design. Of course, the graphics film of the present invention is easy to handle, and can be applied to the vehicle body without failure even by non-experts, so the process is simpler and more economical than two-tone coating, and versatility is great. .

  FIG. 3 shows a modification of the graphics film shown in FIG. As is understood by comparing FIG. 3 with FIG. 1, the layer structure of both is the same, except that in the case of the graphics film 10 of FIG. 3, the adhesive layer 2 is fine on the surface on the adherend side. Since it has the continuous communication groove | channel 12, the fine concavo-convex structure is provided to the surface. FIG. 4 is a plan view of the adhesive layer 2 shown in order to deepen understanding of the uneven structure. In the fine uneven structure, as shown in the figure, truncated quadrangular pyramid (or trapezoidal) protrusions 22 are arranged at equal intervals on the surface of the adhesive layer 2 coated on the surface of the transparent film layer 3. In addition, the inverted trapezoidal minute communication grooves 12 are configured to run in a lattice pattern between the protrusions 22. As a result of arranging the protrusions 22 and the communication grooves 12 in such a pattern, air bleedability is improved, and therefore, when the graphics film 10 is attached to the adherend, air bubbles are prevented from being taken in between them. be able to. That is, as schematically shown in FIG. 5, when the graphics film 10 is applied to the adherend 1 through the adhesive layer 2, the normal application operation is performed carefully using a squeegee or the like. Even if it is carried out, it is very difficult to prevent air bubbles from being trapped between the graphics film 10 and the adherend 1, but the graphics film 10 of the present invention is fine in the adhesive layer 2. Since the communication groove 12 is provided, the air trapped between the graphics film 10 and the adherend 1 can be discharged to the outside through the communication groove 12, so that defective products can be generated or pasted. Redoing can be prevented.

  As a supplementary explanation, the fine uneven structure on the surface of the adhesive layer has a function of discharging air trapped between the two when the graphics film is stuck on the adherend, At the time of completion, the concavo-convex structure itself preferably has a shape and size that can be taken into the adhesive layer and disappear. A suitable concavo-convex structure is usually constituted by a group of protrusions distributed regularly or randomly and a communication groove formed between the protrusions. If necessary, glass beads and other fine particles may be further dispersed on the surface of the adhesive layer in addition to the fine concavo-convex structure in order to improve the sliding property of the graphics film.

  On the surface of the adhesive layer, the protrusion and the communication groove can be combined in various ways to form an uneven structure. That is, these two elements use protrusions of various shapes and sizes and arrange them in a regular pattern to maximize and control their effects. It may be arranged in a random pattern. For example, the protrusion can have the shape of a regular quadrangular pyramid, a triangular pyramid, a cone, a truncated quadrangular pyramid, a truncated cone, a hemisphere, a sphere, etc., and in some cases, any combination of these protrusions, Also good. In the group of these protrusions, the boundary portion between the adjacent protrusions is usually lower than the other portions of the protrusions, and therefore, the communication groove referred to in the present invention can be formed.

  Referring again to FIG. 3, the adhesive layer 2 is not shown here, but is usually released to facilitate manufacture and protect the adhesive layer 2 until the graphics film 10 is used. Covered with a liner. In addition, in order to give a fine uneven structure to the surface of the adhesive layer 2 of the graphics film 10, the release liner is provided with concave portions and continuous minute protrusions in a pattern corresponding to the uneven structure.

  As described above, the graphics film according to the present invention has various configurations and features within the scope of the present invention. Subsequently, the configuration, characteristics, use, etc. of the graphics film of the present invention will be described in more detail.

  The graphics film of the present invention exhibits a brilliant and light-interfering appearance and enables color coordination of high-quality soft nuances that has never been proposed before, so it is advantageously used in various technical fields. Can provide distinctive graphics products.

  In particular, the graphics film of the present invention can be advantageously applied to various adherends that require an attractive appearance and excellent design. Such an adherend is basically colored. However, if an arbitrary color is given to the adherend itself, it is not necessary to dare to perform the coloring treatment. Typical coloring methods include painting and spraying of paints, colored coating, and the like. Whichever coloration method is used, the choice of paint color or paint film color is an important factor, and it is necessary to select the optimum color according to the desired appearance and color coordination in the graphics film. is there.

  In the practice of the present invention, the type and material of the adherend to be colored are not particularly limited. For example, the material of the adherend may be a metal material such as aluminum, iron, and stainless steel, or may be a plastic material, a reinforced plastic material, a ceramic material including tiles, or the like. Further, if necessary, a composite material of these materials may be used. In addition, the types of adherends are not limited to those listed below, but are not limited to automobiles such as passenger cars, motorcycles, ships such as motor boats and passenger ships, railway vehicles such as trains, and buildings such as buildings. The outer wall, the inner wall, etc. can be mentioned. Particularly typical uses of the graphics film of the present invention include automobile body marks, stripes, emblems, two-tone paint substitutes, and the like.

  In the graphics film of the present invention, the adhesive layer is preferably transparent or almost transparent. The adhesive layer can guarantee a predetermined level of transparency, can firmly fix the film when the graphics film is applied to an adherend, and does not adversely affect the operational effects of the present invention. It can be formed using any adhesive or pressure sensitive adhesive. Particularly suitable for forming the adhesive layer is a pressure sensitive adhesive. Moreover, it is preferable that the pressure sensitive adhesive does not have removability. The pressure sensitive adhesive useful for forming the adhesive layer is not limited to those listed below. For example, polyacrylate, tackifying rubber, tackifying synthetic rubber, ethylene vinyl acetate, silicone And so on. Suitable acrylic adhesives for the practice of the present invention include, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,239,478, 5,169,727, Reissued Patent 24,906, U.S. Pat. No. 650 and No. 4,181,752. A preferred class of pressure sensitive adhesives are alkyl acrylate homopolymers and copolymers, or multicomponent copolymers thereof.

  In addition, the adhesive layer is usually used in a form in which a release liner (also referred to as a release paper or a release liner) is provided on the exposed surface in order to protect the adhesive surface and improve the handleability. That is, the adhesive layer can be formed by, for example, dispersing an adhesive polymer in a solvent or water, applying the polymer on a release liner, drying, and further curing. Application of the adhesive polymer can be performed using conventional coating methods such as bar coating, for example. Further, the polymer of the adhesive is optional, but it may be further crosslinked. If a solvent-based or water-based pressure sensitive adhesive composition is used, the adhesive layer will involve a drying step to remove all or most of the solvent or water. A hot melt adhesive may be used in place of the pressure sensitive adhesive. Furthermore, a low molecular weight polymerizable adhesive composition can be applied on a release liner, and polymerized or crosslinked by heating, UV irradiation or electron beam irradiation to form an adhesive layer.

  The adhesive may include one or more additives as required. For example, the adhesive is an initiator, a crosslinking agent, a plasticizer, a tackifier, a chain transfer agent, an antioxidant, a stabilizer, a flame retardant, a viscosity enhancing agent, depending on the polymerization method, coating method, end use, etc. Agents and mixtures thereof can be used as additives.

  The thickness of the adhesive layer varies within a wide range depending on many factors including, for example, the composition of the adhesive, the shape and dimensions of protrusions and communication grooves provided as necessary, the type of adherend, and the like. be able to. In general, the thickness of the adhesive layer is preferably in the range of about 10-100 μm.

  The adhesive layer preferably has a fine uneven structure on the surface on the adherend side. The uneven structure to be applied to the surface of the adhesive layer has a function of discharging air trapped between the two when the graphics film is applied to the adherend, and when the application is completed, It is preferable that the concavo-convex structure itself has a shape and dimensions that can be taken into the adhesive layer and disappear. In the practice of the present invention, as described above, it is preferable that a plurality of protrusions are distributed for forming a fine concavo-convex structure.

It is particularly preferable that the uneven structure of the adhesive layer is formed by fine grid-like communication grooves formed on the surface of the adhesive layer and protrusions surrounded by the communication grooves. Fine communication grooves formed between the protrusions are each terminated at the peripheral edge of the adhesive layer. The communication groove is very fine, and the presence of the communication groove cannot usually be recognized with the naked eye. That is, the communication groove cannot be clearly recognized from any surface by visual observation, and thus has a degree of fineness necessary to be observed microscopically. Here, “microscopic fineness” means a structure that is small enough to require an optical auxiliary tool for the naked eye from any viewing surface in order to confirm the shape of the communication groove. Pointing. One standard is that of 1966, W.W. J. et al. It is shown in pages 104-105 of a book published by Smith, McGraw-Hill, Modern Optic Engineering . According to this, visual acuity is “defined and measured by the size of the visual angle of the smallest character that can be recognized”. Normal visual acuity is considered to be when the smallest character that can be recognized forms an arc on the retina with a high and low angle and a range of 5 minutes. This is a lateral distance of 0.36 mm (0.0145 inch) for this recognition object at a typical viewing distance of 250 mm (10 inches).

  Even though the communication groove formed in the adhesive layer is finely formed, it was captured between the two when the graphics film was attached to an adherend such as the body of an automobile or the outer wall of a building. It has the function of discharging air to the outside (so-called “bleed” processing), and further, when the lamination film is completely pasted, the communication groove itself disappears in the form of being taken into the adhesive layer, Therefore, the adverse effect on the light transmittance due to the presence of the communication groove can be removed.

  The shape and dimensions of the communication groove are not particularly limited as long as the above-described effects can be obtained. For example, the communication groove can be changed in various ways depending on its processing method, but preferably has a V-shaped, U-shaped, rectangular, inverted trapezoidal cross section when viewed in the transverse direction. Further, the limit of the dimension of the communication groove can be explained using the aspect ratio. The aspect ratio is defined as the ratio between the maximum microscopic dimension of the communication groove parallel to the surface of the adhesive layer and the maximum microscopic dimension of the communication groove perpendicular to the surface of the adhesive layer. The aspect ratio can be measured by determining the cross-sectional dimension of the groove at an angle perpendicular to the wall of the communication groove. The limit of the aspect ratio varies depending on the type of the communicating groove, but is usually in the range of about 0.1 to 20, and preferably in the range of about 10 to 15.

  In general, the communication groove can be formed on the surface of the adhesive layer in various patterns. The communication grooves may be arranged at random or may have a regular pattern. The pattern of the communication groove includes a pattern mainly composed of straight lines and a pattern mainly composed of curves. A plurality of groove patterns may be combined to form one continuous communication groove pattern on the surface of the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer.

  In addition, the communication groove can be preferably formed by previously forming continuous microprotrusions on the surface of the release liner on the adhesive layer side in advance and coating it with the adhesive layer. Therefore, the microprojections of the release liner can have a shape that can be fitted into the communication groove, and specifically have a cross section such as a triangle, an inverted U-shape, a rectangle, and a trapezoid.

  Although release liners can be advantageously constructed from a variety of substrates, suitable substrates include paper and plastic materials such as polyethylene resins, polypropylene resins, polyester resins, cellulose acetate resins, polyvinyl chloride resins, Polyvinylidene fluoride resin or the like, or paper or other materials coated or laminated with such a plastic material. These embossable coated papers or thermoplastic films may be used as they are, but are preferably used after being treated with a silicone treatment or other methods to improve the release characteristics. Also, the thickness of the release liner varies greatly depending on what effect is required. The thickness of the release liner is usually preferably in the range of about 30 to 300 μm. In addition, any structure can be applied to the release liner using various techniques such as those disclosed in US Pat. No. 5,650,215.

  Furthermore, the application of recesses and microprojections to the release liner can be performed using a variety of techniques including embossing. The pattern is preferably transferred to the surface of the release liner using a dedicated master tool utilizing micro-rib location technology developed by the applicant.

  When the graphics film has a configuration as shown in cross section in FIG. 1, a transparent film layer is used adjacent to the above-described adhesive layer. The film layer used here can be a transparent plastic film that is generally used in the production of graphics films. Examples of resin materials suitable for the formation of such transparent film layers are not limited to those listed below, but include polyester resins, polystyrene resins, polycarbonate resins, vinyl resins, polyvinyl chloride resins, plasticization A polyvinyl chloride resin, a polyurethane resin, a polyethylene resin, a polypropylene resin, a fluororesin, etc. can be mentioned. A particularly suitable resin material for the practice of the present invention is polyethylene terephthalate (PET). This material is excellent in transparency, strength and rigidity.

  Although the transparent film layer can be formed by various methods, it is necessary to form a relatively thin film. Therefore, a thin film forming method such as a printing method or a vapor deposition method can be advantageously used. For example, for a transparent film layer, a film-forming resin material is prepared, and this is generally used for screen printing, gravure printing, etc. on an adhesive layer generally temporarily supported by a release liner. It can be formed by printing and curing using the printing method. The thickness of the transparent film layer can be widely changed depending on the desired application and the like, but is usually about 300 μm or less, preferably about 25 to 100 μm. Further, the surface of the film layer may be subjected to a primer treatment as necessary in order to reinforce the bonding force between the film layer and the adhesive layer.

  When the graphics film has a layer structure as shown in cross section in FIG. 1, a transparent coloring coating layer is further used on the transparent film layer. The coloring coating layer is an indispensable layer for obtaining the appearance of the glitter and light interference intended in the present invention, and exhibits the glitter, the light interference, or the glitter and the light interference. Is included at the same time. Such a filler may be made of an inorganic material, may be made of an organic material, or may be made of a mixture of an inorganic material and an organic material. In the practice of the present invention, inorganic and / or organic pigment powders can be advantageously used as fillers.

  Pigments useful as fillers are not limited to those listed below, but may be metal-deposited foils deposited with metals such as aluminum, copper, or alloys such as brass, flakes, and metals such as aluminum. Flakes, flakes of metal foils of metal oxides such as alumina, scaly mica, pearl pigments such as titanium dioxide-coated mica, iron oxide-coated mica, bismuth trichloride, interference pearl pigments, color shift pigments, titanium oxide For example, flaky glass such as coated glass flakes, flakes of a light interference film, and the like. These pigments, when dispersed in the color coating layer, have the effect of changing the color and light depending on the angle of line of sight as a result of light interference when there is reflected light and transmitted light. Yes.

For reference, the pigments described above are commercially available from the following manufacturers.
Nippon Sheet Glass Co., Ltd .:
"Metashine" series (Titanium oxide coated glass flakes)
Flex (USA):
"ChromaFlair" series (color shift pigment with multilayer structure)
"SpectraFlair" series (color shift pigment with surface structure and multilayer structure)
Merck (USA):
"Iriodin" series (interference pearl pigments)
"Ultra 7200" series (interference pearl pigment with multilayer structure)
"NewGp" series (interference pearl pigments with multilayer structure)
"Xiralilic" series (interference pearl pigments with multilayer structure)
Engelhard (USA):
"MEARLIN" series (pearl pigments and interference pearl pigments)
Nihon Koken Kogyo Co., Ltd .:
"PEARL-GRAZE" series (pearl pigments and interference pearl pigments)
"ULTIMICA" series (pearl pigments and interference pearl pigments)

  The size of the above-mentioned pigment can be changed in a wide range, but usually it is preferable to have an average particle size of about 5 to 130 μm. These pigments may be used alone or in combination of two or more. Moreover, you may use other pigments and fillers other than a pigment as needed. Further, these pigments may be used in combination with additives such as an anti-settling agent, a surfactant, and a silane coupling agent.

  The content of the pigment and other fillers in the coloring coating layer can be widely changed according to the desired coloring effect, glitter, light interference, etc., but is usually 5% by weight or less. Preferably, it is in the range of about 0.5 to 5% by weight. When the filler content exceeds 5% by weight, glitter and light interference are excessively exhibited, and it becomes impossible to achieve a high-quality and soft nuanced color coordination.

  The transparent coloring coating layer can be formed by various methods depending on the desired coloring effect and the method of incorporating the filler. Generally, the color-developing coating layer can be formed from a coating ink or paint prepared by blending a transparent resin (also referred to as a binder), a filler, and optional additives. The luster and light interference pigments used as fillers in the present invention can impart a coloring effect peculiar to the pigment to the coating ink, unlike ordinary solid color inks. For the formation of the coloring coating layer, various commercially available transparent resins can be arbitrarily used. Examples of usable resins include, for example, cellulose derivatives such as ethyl cellulose, nitrocellulose, and cellulose acetate, styrene resins such as polystyrene, styrene copolymer resins, polymethyl methacrylate, and (meth) acryl such as polyethyl acrylate. Resins, rosin and rosin modified resins, polyester resins, polyurethane resins and the like.

  Next, the obtained coating ink is printed on a transparent film layer using a conventional printing method such as a screen printing method or a gravure printing method. Further, this printing may be single color printing or multicolor printing. Further, instead of the printing method, a riding coating method such as roll coating, gravure roll coating, knife coating, curtain coating, or the like may be used. Furthermore, instead of forming by printing or coating, a color-developing coating layer may be formed by transferring a separately prepared transparent color-developing coating (thin film) to a transparent film layer. The film thickness of the coloring coating layer can be widely changed, but is preferably in the range of about 2 to 20 μm.

  In the graphics film of the present invention, a clear layer is used as the uppermost layer. The clear layer desirably has weather resistance and heat resistance in addition to transparency, which is an essential property, from the viewpoint of causing it to act as a protective film, and preferably various resins that satisfy such properties. An appropriate resin can be selected from among these. It is also desirable that the clear layer has good adhesion to the color developing layer that is the base. Suitable resins for forming the clear layer are not limited to those listed below, but include polyester resins, polyethylene resins, polycarbonate resins, vinyl chloride resins, acrylic resins, polyurethane resins, polyolefin resins, vinylidene fluoride resins, etc. Can be mentioned. Moreover, although the film thickness of this clear layer can be widely changed according to the desired effect, etc., it is usually preferably in the range of about 5 to 100 μm, more preferably in the range of about 20 to 75 μm. is there. Further, as an additional effect of the clear layer, it can be expected to give gloss to the surface of the decorative film.

  As described above, the graphics film of the present invention can be implemented in various forms. For example, when a layer configuration as shown in FIG. 2 is adopted instead of the layer configuration shown in FIG. 1 in order to simplify the layer configuration of the graphics film, the transparency and / or light is added to the transparent film layer. A transparent coloring film layer can be formed by incorporating an interference inorganic or organic filler.

  The transparent coloring film layer can be formed by various methods depending on the desired coloring effect and the method of incorporating the filler. For example, the color forming film layer can be formed by the following method using the same method as the formation of the transparent color forming coating layer described above. First, a film-forming resin material is prepared. A suitable resin material is, for example, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) as described in the formation of the transparent film layer. Next, a predetermined amount of glitter and / or light interference inorganic or organic filler is kneaded into the resin material. Fillers that can be used here are, for example, various pigments such as pearl pigments, interference or light interference pearl pigments, and color shift pigments as described in the case of the transparent coloring coating layer.

  After kneading a predetermined amount of the selected filler, the film-forming resin material is generally screen-printed, gravure-printed, etc. on an adhesive layer temporarily supported by a release liner. Print and cure using conventional printing methods. Otherwise, instead of forming a transparent coloring film layer by printing in this way, a transparent coloring film layer (so-called precursor) is formed from a film-forming resin material kneaded with a predetermined amount of a filler in another place. ), The target color film layer may be formed by transferring the color film layer to an adhesive layer. The thickness of the transparent color-developing film layer obtained in this way can be widely changed depending on the desired application and the like, but is usually about 300 μm or less, preferably about 25 to 100 μm.

  When a transparent coloring film layer is formed in this way, it is not necessary to form a more transparent coloring coating layer on the coloring film layer unless, for example, a more specific coloring effect is expected. It is. Usually, it is preferable to form the above-mentioned clear layer with a predetermined film thickness on the coloring film layer.

  The graphics film shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 can be manufactured as described above. Further, for example, the graphics film of FIG. 3 in which a fine uneven structure is provided on the surface of the adhesive layer can be manufactured by the following procedure.

  A release liner is prepared in which a plurality of fine recesses are formed in a predetermined pattern on the surface to be brought into close contact with the adhesive layer of the graphics film. As an example, a useful release liner for use herein is called a polycoat liner, which has a polyethylene coating on both sides of a paper substrate. Instead of the paper substrate, a polyester substrate or the like may be used. One polyethylene coating of the release liner is subjected to a peeling treatment by applying a silicone solution. Next, a recess is formed in the polyethylene coating after the release treatment by embossing. The embossing can be performed, for example, by pressing an embossing roll called a master tool to the polyethylene coating on one side of the release liner. In addition to embossing using a master tool, the concavity may be imparted to the release liner by other conventional mechanical processing or etching.

  Next, a microstructured surface composed of microprojections formed continuously is imparted to the surface of the release liner having the recesses. As an example, microprojections are formed again on the polyethylene coating of the release liner by embossing. Embossing can be carried out in the same manner as described above, and other methods may be used in some cases. The surface pattern of the embossing roll is transferred to the polyethylene coating, resulting in a release liner having microprojections.

  After providing the microstructured surface to the release liner, a pressure sensitive adhesive is applied to the microstructured surface with a thickness sufficient to completely cover the microstructured surface and the adhesive layer is applied. Form. For example, a pressure-sensitive adhesive selected with a predetermined film thickness is applied on a polyethylene coating having microprojections of a release liner, dried, and further cured. The pressure sensitive adhesive can be applied using a conventional coating method such as bar coating.

  Thereafter, a transparent film layer, a transparent coloring coating layer, and a clear layer are sequentially laminated on the adhesive layer of the release liner in the above-described procedure, thereby completing a target graphics film.

  Subsequently, the present invention will be described with reference to examples thereof. Needless to say, the present invention is not limited to these examples.

Example 1
In this example, a graphics film schematically shown in FIG. 1 was produced using the following materials.

Release liner with adhesive layer, transparent scotchical ^TM film (50 μm thick vinyl chloride film + 30 μm thick acrylic adhesive layer, trade name “S / C3669CF”, manufactured by 3M Company, for use in forming the adhesive layer ) Was prepared.

  Next, a coating ink prepared by kneading a transparent resin raw material (polyester resin) together with a diluent on the release liner adhesive layer was applied by screen printing and dried to produce a transparent film layer.

  Then, on the transparent film layer, as described in Table 1 below, different luster and light interference pigment powders (chroma flare, silical and iriodine 7200) are mixed in different amounts (0.2, 0.5). 1.0, 3.0, 5.0, 8.0, 15.0, 30.0 and 40.0% by weight) were formed. In this example, in order to form a color coating layer, each pigment powder is kneaded with a transparent resin raw material (polyester resin) together with a diluent to prepare a coating ink, and this ink is about 5 μm thick by screen printing. It was applied and dried (when dry). After forming the coloring coating layer in this way, a polyester resin-based clear paint was applied in a thickness of about 20 μm (when dried) in order to provide surface protection, weather resistance, and glossy appearance, and then dried. A graphics film having a thickness of about 105 μm was obtained.

  The graphics film produced as described above was attached to an automobile paint panel having different paint colors (black, pearl white and silver metallic) to produce a test panel. When the paint color of each test panel was observed with the naked eye, the evaluation results described in Table 1 below were obtained.

  As can be understood from the evaluation results in Table 1, the graphics film according to the present invention is capable of coloring and coloring the paint color depending on the type and blending amount of the glittering and light-interfering pigments constituting the coloring coating layer. Various relationships can be derived between the color development of the coating layers. In particular, when the blending amount of the pigment was set between 0.5 and 5.0% by weight, satisfactory color development could be confirmed in both the paint color and the color development coating layer. In fact, when pigments are added to the color-developing coating layer in these blending amounts, it is possible to give the appearance of glitter and light interference while keeping the paint color of the automobile paint panel, making it a high-quality soft nuance color. Coordination (monotone, approximate two-tone, etc.) is now possible.

Example 2
Although the graphics film was produced using the method described in Example 1, in this example, in order to use it for forming the adhesive layer, instead of the transparent Scotchal ^TM film, the microcomplied with the adhesive layer was used. ^TM release liner and transparent Scotchcal ^TM film (150 μm thick polyurethane film + 45 μm thick acrylic adhesive layer, trade name “FPU3000J”, manufactured by 3M Company) were used. A graphics film having a thickness of about 220 μm was obtained.

  The produced graphics film was attached to an automobile paint panel having different paint colors (black, pearl white and silver metallic) in the same manner as in Example 1 to prepare a test panel. In the case of this example, since the fine communication groove derived from the surface structure (micro-compli) of the release liner was formed on the surface of the adhesive layer, the graphics film sticking operation was very easy and provided with the film. Air bubbles were not trapped between the test panels.

  Furthermore, when the paint color of each test panel was observed with the naked eye, the same evaluation results as those described in Table 1 above were obtained. That is, when the blending amount of the glittering and light-interfering pigment constituting the color coating layer is particularly set between 0.5 to 5.0% by weight, satisfactory color development is achieved in both the paint color and the color coating layer. It could be confirmed. In fact, when pigments are added to the color-developing coating layer in these blending amounts, it is possible to give the appearance of glitter and light interference while keeping the paint color of the automobile paint panel, making it a high-quality soft nuance color. Coordination (monotone, approximate two-tone, etc.) is now possible.

Example 3
A graphics film was prepared using the technique described in Example 2 above. Next, each graphics film was attached to the side of a car body (actual car) with different paint colors (black, pearl white, and silver metallic), and visually evaluated whether it could be used as a substitute for two-tone paint. .

  First, the fine communication grooves derived from the surface structure of the release liner were formed on the surface of the adhesive layer, so it was very easy to attach the graphics film to the car body, and between the film and the test panel. Air bubbles were not taken in.

  Further, when the blending amount of the pigment was set between 0.5 and 5.0% by weight, satisfactory color development could be confirmed in both the paint color and the color development coating layer. In addition, the paint color of the car body can be developed as it is in the area where the graphics film is not affixed, while the monotonic and approximate color-to-tone can be developed in the area where the graphics film is affixed to that area. Therefore, the car body provided the appearance of a high-quality soft nuanced two-tone painted vehicle. In addition, in the case of the two-tone paint substitute obtained in this example, although slight air-engagement of fine communication grooves derived from the micro-compliance was slightly observed, it was caused by the hiding power of the pigment powder of the coloring coating layer existing thereon. It didn't matter at all.

Example 4
Although the graphics film was produced using the method described in Example 1, in this example, in order to use the adhesive layer, the control tack with the adhesive layer was used instead of the transparent Scotchal ^TM film. ^TM Plus Comply ^TM film (150 μm thick polyurethane film + 35 μm thick acrylic adhesive layer, manufactured by 3M Company) was used. A graphics film having a thickness of about 210 μm was obtained.

  The produced graphics film was attached to an automobile paint panel having different paint colors (black, pearl white and silver metallic) in the same manner as in Example 1 to prepare a test panel. In the case of this example, since the fine communication groove derived from the surface structure (micro-compli) of the release liner was formed on the surface of the adhesive layer, the graphics film sticking operation was very easy and provided with the film. Air bubbles were not trapped between the test panels. In addition, fine glass particles (frit) are distributed on the surface of the adhesive layer in combination with the communication grooves, so that slidability is good at the same time as bubbles are removed during attachment, and positioning is easy. It was possible. From these facts, it has been found that the graphics film of this example is very effective for sticking to an adherend having a large area such as the side of a large bus.

  Furthermore, when the paint color of each test panel was observed with the naked eye, the same evaluation results as those described in Table 1 above were obtained. That is, when the blending amount of the glittering and light-interfering pigment constituting the color coating layer is particularly set between 0.5 to 5.0% by weight, satisfactory color development is achieved in both the paint color and the color coating layer. It could be confirmed. In fact, when pigments are added to the color-developing coating layer in these blending amounts, it is possible to give the appearance of glitter and light interference while keeping the paint color of the automobile paint panel, making it a high-quality soft nuance color. Coordination (monotone, approximate two-tone, etc.) is now possible. Further, although slight air-engagement of fine communication grooves derived from the micro-compliance was slightly observed, there was no problem due to the hiding power of the pigment powder of the coloring coating layer existing thereon. Furthermore, although there was a concern about the deterioration of appearance characteristics due to the glass particles present in the adhesive layer, the glass particles look similar to the pigment powder and are concealed by the pigment powder. In order to obtain, no trouble occurred.

Example 5
In this example, a graphics film schematically shown in FIG. 2 was produced using the following materials.

Release liner with adhesive layer, transparent scotchical ^TM film (50 μm thick vinyl chloride film + 30 μm thick acrylic adhesive layer, trade name “S / C3669CF”, manufactured by 3M Company, for use in forming the adhesive layer ) Was prepared.

  Then, on the adhesive layer of the release liner, different luster and light interference pigment powders (Metashine, Chromaflare, Silical and Iriodin 7200) are mixed in different amounts (0. 2, 0.5, 1.0, 3.0, 5.0, 8.0, 15.0, 30.0 and 40.0% by weight) were formed. In this example, in order to form a color developing film layer, each pigment powder is kneaded with a transparent resin raw material (polyester resin) together with a diluent to prepare a coating ink, and this ink is screen-printed to a thickness of about 5 μm. It was applied and dried (when dry). After forming the coloring film layer in this way, a polyester resin-based clear paint was applied with a thickness of about 20 μm (when dried) in order to provide surface protection, weather resistance, and glossy appearance, and then dried. A graphics film having a thickness of about 100 μm was obtained.

  The graphics film produced as described above was attached to an automobile paint panel having different paint colors (black, pearl white and silver metallic) to produce a test panel. When the paint color of each test panel was observed with the naked eye, the evaluation results described in Table 2 below were obtained.

  As can be understood from the evaluation results in Table 2 above, the graphics film according to the present invention is capable of coloring and coloring the paint color depending on the kind and blending amount of the glittering and light-interfering pigments constituting the coloring film layer. Various relationships can be derived between the color development of the film layers. In particular, when the blending amount of the pigment was set between 0.3 and 5.0% by weight, satisfactory color development could be confirmed in both the paint color and the color development coating layer. Actually, when pigments are added to the color film layer in these blending amounts, it is possible to give the appearance of glitter and light interference while keeping the paint color of the automobile paint panel, making it a high-quality soft nuance color. Coordination (monotone, approximate two-tone, etc.) is now possible.

  Further, as a result of the experiments by the present inventors, the evaluation results obtained when the blending amount of the pigment in the coloring film layer is 0.3% by weight and 0.5% by weight in this example are shown in Example 1. It was also confirmed that the evaluation results obtained when the pigment content in the color coating layer was 3.0 wt% and 5.0 wt% as described were close to the evaluation results.

It is sectional drawing which showed one preferable form of the graphics film by this invention. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing another preferred embodiment of the graphics film according to the present invention. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing still another preferred embodiment of the graphics film according to the present invention. FIG. 4 is a plan view of the graphics film shown in FIG. 3. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a method for attaching the graphics film shown in FIG. 3.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Adhering body 2 Transparent adhesive layer 3 Transparent film layer 4 Transparent coloring coating layer 5 Clear layer 6 Brightness, light interference filler 10 Graphics film 12 Fine communication groove 13 Transparent coloring film layer 20 Graphics Products

Claims (13)

  A transparent coloring layer that is used by being attached to the surface of a colored adherend, and that contains a glittering and / or light-interfering inorganic or organic filler on a transparent adhesive layer A graphics film characterized by comprising at least.   The graphics film according to claim 1, wherein the coloring layer is a coloring coating layer formed on a transparent film layer.   The graphics film according to claim 1, wherein the coloring layer is a coloring film layer containing the filler.   The graphics film according to claim 1, further comprising a clear layer as an uppermost layer.   The graphics film according to claim 1, wherein the filler is an inorganic or organic pigment powder.   6. The pigment according to claim 5, wherein the pigment is a pearl pigment, an interference pearl pigment, a color shift pigment, an alumina pigment, a titanium oxide-coated glass flake, a titanium dioxide-coated mica piece, an iron oxide-coated mica piece, or a combination thereof. Graphics film.   The graphics film according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the filler is included in an amount of 0.5 to 5% by weight based on the total amount of the material constituting the coloring layer. .   The graphics film according to claim 1, wherein the adhesive layer has a fine concavo-convex structure on the surface on the adherend side.   The uneven structure on the surface of the adhesive layer has a function of discharging the air trapped between the two when the graphics film is applied to the adherend, and the unevenness when the application is completed. The graphics film according to claim 8, wherein the structure itself has a shape and a dimension that can be taken into and disappear from the adhesive layer.   10. The graphics film according to claim 8, wherein the concavo-convex structure is derived from fine lattice-shaped communication grooves formed on the surface of the adhesive layer.   The graphics film according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the adhesive layer further includes a release liner covering the exposed surface.   It consists of the adherend which consists of a colored base material, and the graphics film of any one of Claims 1-10 affixed on the surface of this adherend at least partially. Graphics product.   The graphics product according to claim 12, wherein the adherend is an automobile body or a mounting part thereof, and the graphics film constitutes an alternative to a stripe, emblem or two-tone coating.

Images