MXPA00006899A - Visible mirror film glitter - Google Patents

Abstract

Glitter, at least a portion of which, comprise visible mirror film. The glitter is useful in any of a variety of ways, including in loose form, attached to the surface of a substrate, in a dispersible combination, or present in a matrix material ranging, for example, from liquids, such as water and alcohols, to gels, such as silicone and glycerol, to hard, rigid materials such as plastics, particle board, and fiberglass. Examples of other matrix materials include putties or molding clays, rubbers, and adhesives.

Description

BRIGHT PARTICLES ON VISIBLE REFLEX FILM SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION, The bright particles, at least a portion of which comprise a visible reflection film. The bright particles are useful in any of a variety of forms including a loose form, bound to the surface of a substrate, in a dispersible combination or present in a matrix material which varies, for example, from such liquids as water and alcohols. , to gels such as silicone and glycerol, to rigid and hard materials such as plastics, particle boards and glass fibers. Examples of other matrix materials include mastics or molding clays, rubber and adhesives.

BRIGHT PARTICLES IN PEL CULA OF VISIBLE REFLEX FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to bright particles ("glitter") that have desirable and / or unique optical characteristics. • BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Glossy particles, which are a plurality of particles (ie pieces or fragments of a material) that have a regular or irregular periphery, are known in forms that include material that reflects light or refracts light (see, for example, example, US patents numbers RE 31,780 (Cooper et al.), 3,764,067 (Coffey et al.), 4,310,584 (Cooper et al.), and 5,294,657 (Melendy et al.). Useful materials such as bright particles include metal particles (eg aluminum, copper, silver, gold and bronze), particles of solid, transparent or colored organic materials (e.g. poly (ethylene terephthalate), polymethacrylate and poly (vinyl butyral)). ), and metal-coated film or paper particles (eg, a poly (ethylene terephthalate) film coated with REF.121367 aluminum). The bright particles may be transparent and / or may be provided in various colors (e.g. silver, gold, blue, red, etc.), or mixtures thereof; and can be provided in various forms (e.g. circles, squares, rectangles, triangles, diamonds, stars, alphanumeric signs (ie, letters and / or numbers) or mixtures of different shapes.Glossy particles can be used loosely ( In a loose form, for example, the bright particles can be dragged in the air to create a decorative visual image during a festive occasion, for example, not to be agglomerated, flowable) or embedded in a solid material, or dispersed in a liquid. example in a party or parade, or can be scattered on the surface (including hair) In another aspect, shiny particles commonly adhere to the surface, or embedded in items (for example, jewelry, clothing, toys and novelties). , art work and ornaments) to improve their visual appearance.The bright particles also disperse in a liquid to provide a visual effect (for example, nts who have a winter scene with simulated snow flakes) or to improve the appearance of a coating (for example paints (for example automotive paints or recreational paints), glue and nail varnish). Shining metallic particles, which are among the most reflective types of bright particles, are often preferred for various end uses. However, the use of metallic shiny particles is not without disadvantages. Some reflective metals used in glossy particles such as silver or gold are relatively expensive. Other metals, such as copper or aluminum, can corrode or rust when exposed to air and / or water. Therefore, a metal containing bright particles are relatively expensive, due to the inherent cost of the metal and / or because it requires the addition of a protective coating which increases the costs and complexity to produce the shiny particles. In addition, the shiny particles of solid metal (ie, shiny particles comprising solid particles or metal flakes) can corrode equipment (eg spray guns, mixers and extruders) used in the manufacture of shiny particles or products containing bright particles. In addition, the solid metallic shiny particles have a higher specific gravity than typical coating formulations, whereby they cause the shiny particles to settle to the bottom of the coating container.

Conventional glossy plastic particles avoid some of the drawbacks associated with metallic shiny particles, but have additional drawbacks of their own. Therefore, many bright plastic particles of the prior art, especially agueilles based on absorbent dyes or pigments, show reflectivities that are much lower than those observed with the shiny metallic particles. Other bright plastic particles are not available in certain colors, due to the inflexibility of their manufacturing method. Other additional bright plastic particles reflect light in a mainly diffuse (as opposed to specular) manner. These characteristics, alone or in combination, result in bright particles that lack vitality or brilliance and do not attract attention. Therefore, there is a need in the art for bright plastic particles, or composition of bright particles which is cheap, highly reflective, available in a wide variety of colors and which is attractive to the eye. These and other needs are met by the bright particles of the present invention, as described in the following.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention provides bright particles ("glitter") comprising the film described herein. The preferred bright particles according to the present invention are bright particles comprising a film constituted of a plurality of alternating layers of at least one first and second polymeric materials, wherein at least one of the first or second materials is birefringent, and wherein the difference in the refractive indices of the first and second polymeric materials for the polarized visible light along mutually endicular plane axes of the film, is at least 0.05, and wherein the difference in the refractive indexes of the first and second polymeric materials for polarized visible light along a third axis, endicular to the plane of the film, is less than about 0.05. The bright particles according to the present invention can be in any of a variety of desired shapes (eg, circles, squares, rectangles, triangles, diamonds, stars, alphanumeric characters, symbols, characters (eg comics, television, film, etc.), other polygons (for example hexagons) and mixtures of at least two different mixtures) and sizes (which include mixtures of two or more different sizes). Typically, at least a portion of the bright particles have particle sizes (ie, a maximum particle size) of up to about 1.25 cm (0.5 inch), more typically, less than about 10 mm or even less than about 3 mm. In another aspect, at least a portion of the bright particles typically have particle sizes ranging from about 50 microns to about 3 mm; for some uses, preferably from about 100 microns to about 3 mm. Larger particle sizes (ie, up to about 1.25 cm (0.5 inches)) of bright particles, according to the present invention, may be preferred for use as confetti. In another aspect, the thickness of the film (for example the visible reflection film) comprising bright particles according to the present invention is typically less than about 125 icometers, more typically less than 75 micrometers and preferably less than 50 micrometers. For some applications, such as paints (for example automotive paints), thicknesses of up to 15 micrometers may also be useful. In another aspect, the thickness of the film is selected to be less than or equal to 25% of the minimum planar dimension of the bright particles formed from the film. For example, for a particle of circular bright particles having a diameter of about 1 mm, the preferred film thickness will be less than or equal to about 0.25 mm. The bright particles according to the present invention can be used or provided in various ways, including in loose form, attached to the surface of a substrate, in a dispersible combination, or present in a matrix material varying, for example, from liquids, such as water and alcohols, to gels such as silicone and glycerol, to hard and liquid materials such as plastics, particle board and fiberglass. Examples of other matrix materials include mastics or molding clays, rubbers, adhesives (e.g. glue sticks), crayons and paper and paperboard. In a mode wherein the bright particles are incorporated into a matrix material (eg, a crosslinked polymeric material) a composite article comprises bright particles according to the present invention dispersed (eg uniformly or non-uniformly) within a matrix material translucent (even transparent). In another embodiment, wherein the bright particles are incorporated into a matrix material, a composite article comprises bright particles according to the present invention dispersed within a matrix material, wherein at least a portion of the shiny particles in accordance with the present invention it is observable by an observer of the composite material comprising the matrix material and the bright particles. In this last example, the matrix material does not need to be translucent (i.e. can be opaque) with the proviso that the bright particles are on the outer surface of the matrix material so that at least a portion of the bright particles , in accordance with the present invention, are observable by the observer of the article. In another aspect, the present invention provides an article or composition comprising a substrate, a matrix placed on the substrate, and a plurality of bright particles according to the present invention, placed in the matrix. Articles incorporating bright particles according to the present invention can have, for example, bright particles dispersed uniformly or non-uniformly (including randomly) therein and / or on it, and also have some areas with bright particles dispersed uniformly or non-uniformly therein and / or on it, and other areas where it is dispersed non-uniformly or uniformly, respectively, therein and / or thereon. In addition, the bright particles may be present so that there are concentration gradients of bright particles. The bright particles according to the present invention can be used, for example, to interact with electromagnetic radiation (e.g., visible light) to create desirable, interesting and / or unique visual effects. A visible reflection film used in the present invention has the advantage that it can be constructed as a multi-layer optical film which has a relatively low absorption of incident light, and at the same time high off-axis reflectivity as well as lightning of light perpendicular. Another advantage is, unlike metal-based reflectors, for example, that multi-layer optical films do not tarnish in water or in high humidity conditions. Glossy particles converted into a visible reflection film usually have visually pleasing properties when viewed incidentally (ie, when viewed at such an angle that specular reflection does not cause a flash or twinkle). Incidentally, the visible reflection film, especially in smaller bright particle sizes such as 0.2 m (0.008 inches) and smaller, they simply disappear in the background, without appearing dark or gray, and without generating a dark appearance in the background. Other bright particles, especially bright metal particles, when viewed incidentally in the dark, provide a dirty appearance.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figures 1 to 7 are perspective views of various exemplary toy balls in accordance with the present invention; Figure 8 is a perspective view of an action figure according to the present invention; Figure 9 is a perspective view of a balloon with a winter scene, according to the present invention; Figure 10 is a cross-sectional side view of a multilayer film, according to the present invention; Figure 11 is a cross-sectional side view of a liner according to the present invention, attached to a substrate; Figure 12 is a top view of bright particles, according to the present invention, adhered to a surface; Figure 13 is a cross-sectional side view of bright particles according to the present invention, adhered to a surface as illustrated in Figure 12; Figure 14 is a side view of a toy lighting tube its handy in accordance with the present invention; Figure 15 is a cut-away view of a portion of the toy light tube mountable in the hand of Figure 14; Figure 16 is a side view of another toy light tube attachable to the hand, in accordance with the present invention; Figure 17 is a side view of another toy light tube attachable to the hand, in accordance with the present invention; Figure 18 is a side view of another toy light tube attachable to the hand, in accordance with the present invention, in an extended position; Figure 19 is a side view of a toy light tube attachable to the hand of Figure 18, in a retracted position; Figure 20 is a cross-sectional side view of a tape according to the present invention; Figure 21 is a cross-sectional side view of a decal according to the present invention; Figure 22 is a side view of a novelty item attachable to the hand, in accordance with the present invention; Figure 22A is a side view of another hand-held novelty item, in accordance with the present invention; Figure 22B is a side view of another novelty item attachable to the hand, in accordance with the present invention; Figure 23 is a cut-away view of a portion of the hand-held novelty article of Figure 22; Figure 24 is a side view of another novelty item attachable to the hand, in accordance with the present invention; Figure 25 is a side view of another novelty item attachable to the hand, in accordance with the present invention; Figure 26 is a side view of another novelty item attachable to the hand, in accordance with the present invention; Figure 27A is a side view of another novelty item attachable to the hand, in accordance with the present invention; Figure 27B is a top view of the novelty article of Figure 27A. Figures 28 and 29 are optical spectra for two-color scroll films.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION The "glitter" particles according to the present invention can be in any of a variety of shapes or sizes. Loosely, bright particles can be used, for example, as confetti and can be thrown in the air to create an image or visual effect. Typically, the layers within the bright particles, according to the present invention are preferably essentially parallel.

Preferred visible reflection films for use in the present invention are described in U.S. having serial numbers 08 / 402,041, filed on March 10, 1995; 08 / 494,366 filed on June 26, 1995; and 09 / 006,601, filed January 13, 1998. A special case of some reflective and polarizing (optical) films are certain color shift films. Visible reflection films are birefringent polymer films that have particular relationships between the refractive indices of successive layers for polarized light along mutually perpendicular plane axes (the x axis and the y axis) and along an axis perpendicular to an axis in the plane (the z-axis). A visible reflection film comprises a plurality of alternating layers of at least one first and second polymeric materials wherein at least one of the first or second polymeric materials is birefringent; and wherein the difference in refractive indices of the first and second polymeric materials for polarized visible light along axes in the mutually perpendicular plane of the film is at least 0.05; and wherein the difference in the refractive indices of the first and second polymeric materials for the polarized visible light along the third axis perpendicular along the film is less than about 0.05. In an ideal mirror, the difference in the refractive index criteria for the plane axes applies equally in any direction in the plane of the film. Material and processing considerations are made to maximize this difference in the refractive index. The preferred spectral bandwidth of interest is typically between 400 nm to 700 nm. Several process concentrations are important when producing high quality optical films (which include mirrors). The process conditions used to make each film will depend in part on the particular resin system and the desired optical properties of the final film. The following description is intended to be a review of those process considerations common to any resin system used in the manufacture of co-extruded optical films useful for the present invention.

SELECTION OF MATERIAL FOR FILMS With respect to the materials for which the preferred films are to be made (ie, the preferred visible reflective films, as well as the preferred polarizing and polarizing films) there are several conditions which must be satisfied which are common to all the multiple layer optical films of this invention. First, these films comprise at least two differentiable polymers. The number is not limited, and three or more polymers can be advantageously used in particular particles. Second, one of the two necessary polymers, termed as the "first polymer", must have an optical voltage coefficient that has a large absolute value. In other words, you must be able to develop a large birefringence when you stretch. Depending on the application, this birefringence can develop between two perpendicular directions in the plane of the film, between one or more directions in the plane and direction perpendicular to the plane of the film, or a combination of these. Third, the first polymer must be able to maintain this birefringence after stretching, so that desired optical properties are imparted to the finished film. Fourth, the other necessary polymer, referred to as the "second polymer" should be chosen so that, in the finished film, its refractive index, in at least one direction, differs significantly from the refractive index of the first polymer in the same direction. Because polymeric materials are dispersive, that is, their refractive indices vary with wavelength, these conditions must be considered in terms of a spectral bandwidth of interest. Other aspects of polymer selection depend on the specific applications. For polarizing films, it is advantageous for the difference in the refractive index of the first and second polymers in a film plane direction to differ significantly in the finished film, while the difference in the index in the plane of the orthogonal film is minimized. If the first polymer has a large refractive index when it is isotropic, and is positively birefringent (that is, its refractive index increases in the direction of stretching), the second polymer will be chosen to have a matching refractive index, after processing, in the plane direction orthogonal to the drawing direction, and a refractive index in the drawing direction which is as low as possible. Conversely, if the first polymer has a refractive index sticky when it is isotropic, and is negatively birefringent, the second polymer will be chosen to have a matching refractive index, after processing, in the planar direction orthogonal to the drawing direction, and a refractive index in the drawing direction which is as high as possible. Alternatively, it is possible to select a first polymer which is positively birefringent and which has an intermediate or low refractive index when it is isotropic, or one which is negatively birefringent and which has an intermediate or high refractive index when it is isotropic. In these cases, the second polymer can be chosen so that, after processing, its refractive index coincides with that of the first polymer either in the drawing direction or in the planar direction orthogonal to the drawing. In addition, the second polymer will be chosen so that the difference in the refractive index in the remaining planar direction is maximized, regardless of whether this is best accomplished by a very low or very high refractive index in that direction. One means of obtaining this combination of coincidence in the flat index in one direction and a lack of coincidence in the orthogonal direction is to select a first polymer which develops a significant birefringence when stretched, and a second polymer which develops little or no birefringence when stretched, and stretch the resulting film only in a flat direction. Alternatively, the second polymer can be selected from those which develop birefringence in the opposite direction to that of the first polymer (negative-positive or positive-negative). Another alternative method is to select both a first and a second polymer which are capable of developing birefringence when stretched, but not stretched in two orthogonal flat directions, selected process conditions such as temperature, drawing speeds, post-stretch relaxation and the like , which results in a development of different levels of orientation in the two directions of stretching for the first polymer, and levels of orientation for the second polymer that are at a rate in the plane that roughly coincides with that of the first polymer, and the orthogonal index in the plane is significantly different from the first polymer. For example, conditions may be chosen such that the first polymer has a biaxially oriented character in the finished film, while the second polymer has a predominantly uniaxially oriented character in the finished film. The foregoing means that it is exemplary, and it will be understood that combinations of these and other techniques can be used to obtain the polarizing film objective of the lack of coincidence in the index in a direction in a plane and the relative index coincidence in the orthogonal flat direction. Different considerations apply to reflective or reflective film. Provided that the film does not mean that it has some polarizing properties as well, the refractive index criteria apply equally in any direction in the plane of the film, so that it is typical for the indexes for any given layer in the films. directions in orthogonal plane which are equal or almost equal. However, it is advantageous for the indexes in the film plane of the first polymer that differ as much as possible from the indexes of the film plane of the second polymer. For this reason, if the first polymer has a refractive index when it is isotropic, it is advantageous that it is also positively birefringent. Likewise, if the first polymer has a low refractive index when it is isotropic, it is advantageous that it also be negatively birefringent. The second polymer advantageously develops little or no birefringence when stretched, or develops birefringence in the opposite direction (positive-negative or negative-positive), so that its refractive indices in the film plane differ as much as possible from those of the first polymer in the finished film. These criteria can be appropriately combined with those included above for polarizing films if a reflective film means that it has some degree of polarizing properties as well. Color shift films can be considered as special cases of reflective and polarizing films. Therefore, the same criteria indicated above apply. The perceived color is the result of reflection or polarization on one or more specific bandwidths of the spectrum. The bandwidths on which a multiple layer film of the present invention is effective will be determined primarily by the distribution of layer thicknesses used in the optical stacks, but consideration must also be given to the wavelength dependence, or the dispersion, of the refractive indexes of the first and second polymers. It will be understood that the same rules apply to infrared and ultraviolet wavelengths as well as to visible colors. Absorbance is another consideration. For most applications, it is advantageous that neither the first polymer nor the second polymer have any absorbance band within the bandwidth of interest for the film in question. Therefore, all incident light within the bandwidth is reflected or transmitted. However, for some applications, it may be useful for one or both of the first and second polymer to absorb specific wavelengths, either wholly or in part. Polyethylene 2, 6-naphthalate (PEN) is often chosen as the first polymer for films of the present invention. It has a large positive optical stretching coefficient, retains birefringence effectively after stretching, and has little or no absorbance within the visible range. It also has a large refractive index in the isotropic state. Its polarized incident light refractive index of 550 nm wavelength increases when the plane of polarization is parallel to the direction of stretching from about 1.64 to a value as high as about 1.9. Its birefringence can be increased by increasing its molecular orientation which, in turn, can be increased by stretching at higher drawing ratios with other stretching conditions that remain fixed. Other dicarboxylic polyesters of semicrystalline naphthalenes are also suitable as first polymers. an example is 2, 6-polybutylene naphthalate (PBN). These polymers can be homopolymers or copolymers, with the proviso that the use of comonomers does not substantially damage the optical stretching coefficient or the retention of birefringence after drawing. The term (PEN) herein will be understood to include PEN copolymers that satisfy these restrictions. In practice, these restrictions impose an upper limit on the comonomer content, the exact value of which will vary with the choice of the comonomer or comonomers chosen. However, some compensation can be accepted in these properties, if the incorporation of the comonomer results in an improvement of other properties. Such properties include, but are not limited to, an improved adhesion between the layers, a lower melting point (resulting in a lower extrusion temperature), better rheological match with other polymers in the film, and advantageous shifts in the range of Stretch process due to change in glass transition temperature. Comonomers suitable for use in PEN, PBN or the like may be of the diol or dicarboxylic acid or ester type. The dicarboxylic acid comonomers include, but are not limited to, terephthalic acid, isophthalic acid, phthalic acid, all isomeric naphthalenedicarboxylic acids (2,6-, 1,2-, 1,3-, 1,4-, 1, 5-, 1,6-, 1,7-, 1,8-, 2,3-, 2,4-, 2,5-, 2,7- and 2,8-), bibenzoic acids such as acid 4 , 4'-biphenyldicarboxylic acid and its isomers, trans-4,4'-stilbene dicarboxylic acid and its isomers, 4, 4'-diphenyl ether of dicarboxylic acid and its isomers, 4,4'-diphenylsulfone of dicarboxylic acid and its isomers, , 4'-benzophenone of dicarboxylic acid and its isomers, halogenated aromatic dicarboxylic acids such as 2-chloroterephthalic acid and 2,5-dichloroterephthalic acid, other substituted aromatic dicarboxylic acids such as tertiary butyl isophthalic acid and sodium isophthalic sulfonated acid, cycloalkane acids dicarboxylics such as 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid and its isomers and 2,6-decahydronic acid aphelene dicarboxylic acid and its isomers, bi- or multi-cyclic dicarboxylic acids (such as the various isomeric acids of norbornane and norbornene dicarboxylic acids, adamantane dicarboxylic acids and bicyclo-octane dicarboxylic acids), alkane dicarboxylic acids (such as sebasic acid, adipic acid, oxalic acid, malonic acid, succinic acid, glutaric acid, azelaic acid and dodecane dicarboxylic acid), and any of the isomeric dicarboxylic acids of the aromatic hydrocarbons with fused ring (such as indene, anthracene, phenanthrene, benzonaphthene, fluorene and the like). Alternatively, alkyl esters of these monomers such as dimethyl terephthalate can be used. Suitable diol comonomers include, but are not limited to, linear or branched alkane diols or glycols (such as ethylene glycol, propanediols such as trimethylene glycol, butanediols such as tetramethylene glycol, pentanediols such as neopentyl glycol, hexanediols, 2,2,4-trimethyl- 1,3-pentanediol and higher diols), ether glycols (such as diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol and polyethylene glycol), chain ester diols such as 3-hydroxy-2,2-dimethylpropyl-3-hydroxy-2,2-dimethyl propanoate , cycloalkane glycols such as 1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol and its isomers, and 1,4-cyclohexanediol and its isomers, bi- or multicyclic diols (such as the various isomeric tricyclodecane dimethanols, norbornane dimethanols, norbornene dimethanols and bicyclo-octane dimethanols), aromatic glycols (such as 1,4-benzenedimethanol and its isomers, 1,4-benzenediol and its isomers, bisphenols such as bisphenol A, 2,2 '-dihydroxy biphenyl and its isomers, 4, 4 '-dihydroxymethylbiphenyl and its isomers, and 1,3-bis (2-hydroxyethoxy) benzene and its isomers), and lower alkyl esters or diethers of these diols such as dimethyl or diethyl diols. Tri- or polyfunctional comonomers can also be used, which can serve to impart a branched structure to the polyester molecules. They can be of any of the types of carboxylic acid, ester, hydroxy or ether. Examples include, but are not limited to trimellitic acids and their esters, trimethylolpropane and pentaerythritol.

Also suitable as comonomers are mixed functionality monomers, including hydroxycarboxylic acids such as parahydroxybenzoic acid and 6-hydroxy-2-naphthalenecarboxylic acid and their tri-or polyfunctional comonomers of mixed functionality such as 5-hydroxyisophthalic acid and the like. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is another material that shows a significant positive optical stretching coefficient, retains birefringence effectively after stretching, and has little or no absorbance within the visible range. Therefore, this and its high content PET copolymers using the comonomers included above, can also be used as first polymers in some applications of the present invention. When a naphthalene carboxylic polyester such as PEN or PBN is chosen as the first polymer, there are several approaches which must be taken in the selection of a second polymer. A preferred approach for some applications is to select a naphthalene dicarboxylic copolyester (coPEN) formulated to develop a significantly less or no birefringence network when stretched. This can be carried out by choosing comonomers and their concentrations in the copolymer so that the crystallization capacity of coPEN is eliminated or greatly reduced. A typical formulation uses as the dicarboxylic acid or ester, dimethyl naphthalate components of from about 20 mole percent to about 80 mole percent and dimethyl terephthalate or dimethyl isophthalate from about 20 mole percent to about 80 mole percent, and uses ethylene glycol as the diol component. Of course, the corresponding dicarboxylic acids can be used instead of the esters. The number of comonomers which can be used in the formulation of a second coPEN polymer are not limited. Suitable comonomers for a second coPEN polymer include, but are not limited to, all of the comonomers included above as suitable PEN comonomers, including the acid, ester, hydroxy, tri- or polyfunctional ether and the mixed functionality types. It is often useful to predict the isotropic refractive index of a second coPEN polymer. An average volume of the refractive indexes of the monomers to be used has been found as an adequate guide. Similar techniques well known in the art can be used to estimate the glass transition temperatures for the second coPEN polymers from the vitreous transitions of the homopolymers of the monomers to be used.

In addition, polycarbonates having a glass transition temperature compatible with that of PEN and having a refractive index similar to the isotropic refractive index of PEN are also useful as second polymers. The polyesters, copolyesters, polycarbonates and copolycarbonates can also be fed together to an extruder and suitable copolymer polymers can be transesterified in seconds. The second polymer is not required to be a copolyester or a copolycarbonate. Vinyl polymers and elaborate copolymers of monomers such as vinyl naphthalenes, styrenes, ethylene, maleic anhydride, acrylates, acetates and methacrylates can be used. Condensation polymers other than polyesters and polycarbonates can also be used. Examples include: polysulfones, polyamides, polyurethanes, polyamic acids and polyimides. The naphthalene and halogen groups such as chlorine, bromine and iodine are useful for increasing the refractive index of the second polymer to a desired level. The acrylate and fluorine groups are particularly useful for lowering the refractive index when this is desired. It will be understood from the above discussion that the choice of a second polymer depends not only on the desired application of the multiple layer optical film in question, but also of the choice made for the first polymer, and the processing conditions used in the drawing. Suitable materials for the second polymer include but are not limited to polyethylene naphthalate (PEN) and isomers thereof (such as 2,6-, 1,4-, 1,5-, 2,7- and 2,3-PEN) , polyalkylene terephthalates (such as polyethylene terephthalate, polybutylene terephthalate and poly-1,4-cyclohexanedimethylene terephthalate), other polyesters, polycarbonates, polyarylates, polyamides (such as nylon 6, nylon 11, nylon 12, nylon 4/6 , nylon 6/6, nylon 6/9, nylon 6/10, nylon 6/12 and nylon 6 / T), polyimides (including thermoplastic polyimides and polyacrylic imides) polyamide-imides, polyether-amides, polyetherimides, polyaryl ethers (such as polyphenylene ether and substituted polyphenylene oxides in the ring), polyaryletherketones such as polyether ether ketone ("PEEK"), aliphatic polyketones (such as copolymers and terpolymers of ethylene and / or propylene with carbon dioxide), polyphenylene sulfide, polysulfones (including polyethersulfones and polyarylsulphones), tactical polystyrene, syndiotactic polystyrene ("sPS") and its derivatives (such as syndiotactic poly-alpha-methyl styrene and syndiotactic polydichlorostyrene) combinations of any of these polystyrenes (either with each other or with other polymers) as polyphenylene oxides), copolymers of any of these polystyrenes (such as styrene-butadiene copolymers, styrene-acrylonitrile copolymers and acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene terpolymers), polyacrylates (such as polymethyl acrylate, polyethylene acrylate and polybutyl), polymethacrylates (such as polymethyl methacrylate, polyethyl methacrylate, polypropyl methacrylate and polyisobutyl methacrylate), cellulose derivatives (such as ethyl cellulose, cellulose acetate, cellulose propionate, cellulose acetate and butyrate and cellulose nitrate) , polyalkylene polymers (such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutylene, polyisobutylene and 'poly (4-methyl) pentene), fluorinated polymers and copolymers (such as polytetrafluoroethylene, polytrifluoroethylene, polyvinylidene fluoride, polyvinyl fluoride, fluorinated ethylene-propylene copolymers, perfluoroalkoxy resins, polychlorotrifluoroethylene, polyethylene-co-trifluoroethylene, polyethylene-co-chlorotrifluoroethylene), chlorinated polymers (such as polyvinylidene chloride and polyvinyl chloride), polyacrylonitrile, polyvinyl acetate, polyethers (such as polyoxymethylene and polyethylene oxide, ionomer resins, elastomers ( such as polybutadiene, polyisoprene and neoprene), silicone resins, epoxy resins and polyurethanes Copolymers such as the PEN copolymers discussed above as well as any other non-naphthalene group containing copolyesters which can be formulated from the previous lists of comonomers of polyester suitable for PEN. In some applications, especially when PET serves as the first polymer, the copolyesters based on PET and the comonomers of the above lists (coPET) are especially suitable. In addition, either the first or second polymers may consist of visible or immiscible combinations of two or more of the polymers or copolymers described above (such combinations of sPS and atactic polystyrene or PEN and sPS). The described coPEN and coPET can be synthesized directly or can be formulated as a shotcrete combination wherein at least one component is a polymer based on naphthalenedicarboxylic acid or terephthalic acid, and the other components are polycarbonates or other polyesters such as a PET, a PEN, a coPET or a coPEN. Another preferred family of materials for the second polymer of some applications are syndiotactic vinylaromatic polymers such as syndiotactic polystyrene. Syndiotactic vinylaromatic polymers useful in the present invention include poly (styrene), poly (alkylstyrenes), poly (arylstyrenes), poly (styrene halide), poly (alkoxystyrenes), poly (vinylester benzoate), poly (vinylnaphthalene), poly (vinylstyrene), and poly (acenaphthalene), as well as hydrogenated polymers and mixtures of copolymers containing these structural units. Examples of poly (alkylstyrenes) include the isomers of the following: poly (methylstyrene), poly (ethylstyrene), poly (propylstyrene), and poly (butylstyrene). Examples of poly (arylstyrenes) include the isomers of poly (phenylstyrene). As the poly (styrene halides), examples include the isomers of the following: poly (chlorostyrene), poly (bromostyrene) and poly (fluorostyrene). Examples of poly (alkoxystyrenes) include the isomers of the following: poly (methoxystyrene) and poly (ethoxystyrene). Among these examples, particularly preferable styrene group polymers are: polystyrene, poly (p-methylstyrene), poly (m-methylstyrene), poly (p-butyl tertiary styrene), poly (p-chlorostyrene), poly (m-chlorostyrene), poly (p-fluorostyrene), and copolymers of styrene and p-methylstyrene. In addition, the comonomers can be used to prepare syndiotactic vinyl aromatic copolymers. In addition to the monomers for the homopolymers indicated above to define the group of syndiotactic vinyl aromatic polymers, suitable comonomers include olefin monomers (such as ethylene, propylene, butenes, pentenes, hexenes, octenes or tens), diene monomers (such as butadiene and isoprene) and polar vinyl monomers (such as cyclic diene monomers, methyl methacrylate, maleic acid anhydride or acrylonitrile). The syndiotactic vinylaromatic copolymers of the present invention may be block copolymers, random copolymers or alternating copolymers. The syndiotactic vinyl aromatic polymers and copolymers referred to in this invention generally have a syndiotacticity of greater than 75% or more, determined by nuclear magnetic resonance of carbon 13. Preferably, the degree of syndiotacticity is greater than 85% of racemic diada or greater than 30%, or more preferably, greater than 50% racemic pentad. In addition, although there are no particular restrictions regarding the molecular weight of these syndiotactic vinyl aromatic polymers and copolymers, the average molecular weight weight is preferably greater than 10,000 and less than 1,000,000, and more preferably greater than 50,000 and less than 800,000. The syndiotactic vinyl aromatic polymers and copolymers can also be used in the form of polymer combinations with, for example, polymers of the vinylaromatic group with atactic structures, vinylaromatic group polymers with isotactic structures and in any other polymer that is visible with the vinylaromatic polymers. For example, the polyphenylene ethers show good miscibility with many of the vinylaromatic group polymers previously described. Particularly preferred combinations of polymers for optical layers in the case of mirrors or color films include PEN / PM A, PET / PMMA, PEN / "ECDEL," PET / "ECDEL," PEN / sP ?, PET / sPS, PEN / coPET, PEN / PETG, and PEN / "THV", where "PMMA" refers to polymethyl methacrylate, "ECDEL" refers to a thermoplastic polyester or copolyester (which is considered to be composed of cyclohexanedicarboxylate units, polytetramethylene ether glycol units and cyclohexanedimethanol units) commercially available under the trade designation "ECDEL" from Eastman Chemical Co. The term "coPET" refers to a copolymer or combination based on terephthalic acid (as described above), "PETG" refers to a PET copolymer that uses a second glycol (usually cyclohexanedimethanol), and "THV" is a fluoropolymer commercially available under the trade designation "THV" from 3M Company. For reflective films, refractive indices of the first polymer and second polymer are preferred in the direction normal to the plane of the film, because it provides a constant reflectance with respect to the incident light angle (ie, there is no Bre ster's angle). . For example, at a specific wavelength, the indices of refraction in the plane can be 1.76 for PEN oriented biaxially, while the refractive index normal to the plane of the film can decrease up to 1.49. When PMMA is used as the second polymer in the construction of multiple layers, its refractive index at the same wavelength, in all three directions can be 1,495. Another example is the PET / "ECDEL" system in which the analogous indices can be 1.66 and 1.51 for PET, while the isotropic index of "ECDEL" can be 1.52. The crucial property is that the normal index to the plane for a material must be closer to the indexes in the plane of the other material compared to its own indexes in the plane. It is sometimes preferred that the multiple layer optical films of the present invention consist of more than two differentiable polymers. A third or subsequent polymers can be used fruitfully as an adhesion promoter layer between the first polymer and the second polymer within an optical stack, as an additional component in a stack for optical purposes, as a protective boundary layer between optical stacks, as a coating layer, as a functional coating, or for any other purpose. As such, the composition of a third polymer or subsequent polymer, if any, is not limited. Preferred multi-component constructions are described in the application having serial number U.S. No. 09/006, 118, filed January 13, 1998. Detailed process considerations and additional layers are included in the application having serial number U.S. No. 09 / 006,288 filed January 13, 1998. In addition, the color shift films useful in the present invention are described in the application having the serial number U.S. No. 09 / 006,591, filed January 13, 1998. These color shift films are multilayer birefringent polymer films having particular relationships between the refractive indices of successive layers for polarized light along axes in the mutually orthogonal planes (the x axis and the y axis) and along an axis perpendicular to the axes in the plane (the z axis). In particular, the differences in the refractive indices along the axes x, y and z (?? Y and? Z respectively) are such that the absolute value of? Z is less than about half (in some embodiments a quarter, or even a tenth) of the largest absolute value of? x Y of the absolute value of? y (for example (/? z / <; 0.1k (in some modes 0.25k and even O.lk), k = max. { /? x / / /? and /} ) • Films with this property can be made to show transmission spectrum in which the widths and intensities of the transmission or reflection peaks (when plotted as a function of the frequency or 1/1) for the light p polarized remain essentially constant over a wide range of viewing angles, but move at wavelength as a function of angle. In addition, for p-polarized light, the spectral characteristics shift toward the blue region of the spectrum at a higher velocity with a change in angle than the spectral characteristics of isotropic thin film stacking. In some embodiments, these color-shifting films have at least one optical stack, in which the optical thickness of the individual layers changes monotomically in one direction (for example, increasing or decreasing) over a first portion of the stack and then monotomically changed. in a different direction or remain constant over at least a second portion of the stack. Color shift films having stacking designs of this type show a sudden band edge on one or both sides of the reflection bands, which causes the film to show sudden eye color changes as a function of the vision angle. The bright particles according to the present invention can be produced in any of a wide variety of desired sizes and shapes in any number of desired forms including recordable material or a trademark (for example with cinema or film characters). television) that include a registered trademark or a registered copyright, as defined under the rule of the countries, territories, etc., of the world (including the United States)). The periphery of the bright particles can be, for example, a predetermined regular shape (eg circles, squares, rectangles, diamonds, stars, alphanumeric signs, symbols, other polygons (eg, hexagons)), or an irregular random shape. The size and shape of the shiny particles is typically chosen to optimize the appearance of the shiny particles or to suit a particular end-use application. The bright particles according to the present invention are typically and preferably produced by converting the film material into particles. Suitable conversion techniques are known in the art. Conversion services are also commercially available, for example from Glitterex Corporation, Belleville, NJ. The conversion of the film into regular predetermined forms can be carried out, for example, using precision cutting techniques (eg rotary die cutting). The multiple layer films suitable for use in the manufacture of glossy particles of the present invention preferably have sufficient adhesion between layers to avoid delamination during the conversion process. The thickness of the film (in the z-direction) from which the bright particles according to the present invention preferably are from about 3 to about 25% of the smallest bright particle dimension (ie, measured in the respective directions x and y ). Preferably, the shiny particles are thick enough to remain flat in one application, but are not too thick so as to create substantial edge effects (i.e., distortions in the cut edges of the bright particles that extend over a substantial portion of the surface). film thickness). Optionally, the glossy particles according to the present invention may include coatings such as hard or abrasion resistant coatings, antistatic coatings., coatings that absorb ultraviolet light, coatings with dye, adhesive materials and / or the like, to improve or provide certain properties. Although such materials can be applied to individual bright particles, they are often applied more easily to a sheet or film material which in turn becomes bright particles. Suitable coatings resistant to abrasion as well as techniques for application thereof are known in the art. Such materials include acrylic hard coatings (available, for example, under the trade designations such as "ACRYLOID A-ll" and "PARALOID K-120N" from Rohm & amp;; Haas, Philadelphia, PA); urethane acrylates (including those described in U.S. Patent No. 4,249,011 (Wendling), as well as those available from Sarto er Corp., etschester, PA); and hard polyurethane coatings obtained from the reaction of an aliphatic polyisocyanate (available, for example, under the commercial designation "DESMODUR N-3300" by Miles, Inc., Pittsburgh, PA) with a polyester polyol (available, for example, under the trade designation "TONE POLYOL 0305" from Union Carbide, Houston, TX). Suitable antistatic coatings or films as well as techniques for applying the same are known in the art. Such materials, which can improve the processability of the film for the particulate processes, and the flowability of the individual particles, include V20s and salts of polymers of sulfonic acid, carbon (including carbon black) and metals . A preferred antistatic vanadium oxide coating is described in U.S. Pat. 5,407,603 (Morrison). Coatings or films that absorb adequate ultraviolet (UV) light, as well as techniques for the application thereof, are known in the art. Such materials, which can provide protection against UV radiation, include UV stabilized films and coatings such as those which incorporate benzotriazoles (available, for example, from Ciba Geigy Corp., Hawthorne, NY) or hindered amine light stabilizers.

(HALS) (available, for example, under the trade designation "TINUVIN 292" by Ciba Geigy Corp.), and those which contain benzophenones or diphenyl acrylates (available, for example, from BASF Corp., Parsippany, NJ). Coatings or films that absorb ultraviolet (UV) light may be particularly useful in applications where bright particles are exposed to a significant amount of light in the UV region of the spectrum (for example, when used outdoors in daylight) .

Examples of adhesive materials, which can be applied using techniques known in the art, include pressure sensitive adhesives, heat melting adhesives, solvent-coated adhesives, heat activated adhesives and the like. These adhesive materials are preferably optically transparent, diffuse and do not show haze or aging bleaching characteristics. In addition, the adhesive materials must show long-term stability under light, heat and humidity conditions. Suitable adhesive materials can include adhesive systems activated by solvent, heat or irradiation. Pressure-sensitive adhesive materials are usually sticky at room temperature and can be adhered to a surface by application of light at moderate pressure. Examples of adhesive materials, either pressure sensitive or not and useful in the present invention, include those based on general polyacrylate compositions; polyvinyl ether; diene containing rubbers, such as natural rubber, polyisoprene and polyisobutylene; polychloroprene; butyl rubber; butadiene-acrylonitrile polymers; thermoplastic elastomers; block copolymers such as styrene-isoprene and styrene-isoprene-styrene block copolymers, ethylene-propylene-diene polymers, and styrene-butadiene polymers; polyalphaolefins; amorphous polyolefins; silicone; copolymers with ethylene coating such as vinyl ethylene acetate, ethyl acrylate and ethyl methacrylate; polyurethanes; polyamides; polyesters; epoxy materials; polyvinylpyrrolidone and vinylpyrrolidone copolymers; and mixtures of the above. Additionally, the adhesive materials may contain additives such as adhesion improving substances, plasticizers, fillers, antioxidants, stabilizers, diffusing, curative and solvent particles, provided they do not interfere with. the optical characteristics of the devices. When additives are used, they are used in amounts that are consistent with the intended use, and when used to laminate an optical film to another surface, the adhesive composition and thickness are preferably selected so as not to interfere with the optical properties of the film. the optical film. In addition, the surface or surfaces on which the adhesive material is applied or otherwise bonded can be primed (for example chemically, physically (for example physical treatment such as wrinkling), and corona treatment) to alter the degree of bonding between the adhesive material and the surface.

The visual appearance of the bright particles (eg bright particles of visible reflection film) can be altered by the background on which it is observed. For example, the visual appearance of the bright particles of visible reflection film is typically different for a black background than, for example, for a white background. Therefore, for some applications, it may be desirable for the adhesive material to include additives such as carbon black particles (which tend to revert to the black adhesive material) or Ti02 particles (which tend to revert to the white adhesive material). to alter the color and / or the translucent condition of the adhesive material. In addition, or alternatively, an ink layer (for example black or white ink) can be placed on the visible reflection film and / or the background onto which the bright particles are placed or where they are observed, and can be selected for provide the desired visual effect or appearance of the visible reflection film. Another background, which may be preferred in some applications, is a reflected background (for example, by using a visible reflection film, as well as with other reflective materials). Examples of polymeric matrix materials include thermoplastics (high density polyethylene, low density polyethylene, polypropylene, ethylene / vinyl acetate, polystyrene, polymethylpentene, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), poly (vinylbutyral), poly (chloro) vinyl), polytetrafluoroethylene, poly (vinyl fluoride), polyamides (for example nylon), poly (methyl methacrylate), urethanes, polycarbonate, poly (ethylene terephthalate), poly (butylene terephthalate), thermoset plastics (phenolic, inoresins, epoxies, unsaturated polyesters and cross-linked polyurethanes) and elastomers (natural and synthetic rubber (including vulcanized rubber)), polyacrylates, polyester and polyether urethanes, polybutadiene, silicone elastomers, isobutene-isoprene (butyl) copolymer and copolymer of acrylonitrile-butadiene (nitrile). Additional examples of matrix materials, some of which can also be polyester materials. Immersive materials include adhesive materials such as pressure sensitive adhesives based on natural rubber, acrylic pressure sensitive adhesives, hot melt adhesives. The matrix materials may further comprise optional additives (e.g. antimicrobials, antistatics, blowing agents, colorants (e.g., to dye or impart in some other way or alter the color of the matrix material), curatives, fillers, auxiliaries of dispersion, thickeners, diluents, flame retardants, impact modifiers, initiators, lubricants, plasticizers, slip agents and stabilizers) which provide, for example, a desirable characteristic or property in the final composite article comprising the bright particles and / or that are added in the processing stages to produce an article. Techniques for incorporating the bright particles, according to the present invention, into the matrix material include those known in the art for incorporating conventional bright particles into matrix materials. For example, shiny particles can be dispersed in a liquid, for example, by mixing it or otherwise shaking the liquid with the shiny particles in it. The dispersion of bright particles in the liquid can be aided, for example, by the use of dispersion aids. In some cases, a liquid having bright particles dispersed therein is a precursor to a composite article derived therefrom. For example, the bright particles can be dispersed in a curable polymeric material wherein the polymeric material containing bright particles is placed in a mold having the shape of the desired final article, followed by curing of the polymeric material. Articles containing matrix materials containing bright particles can be made by any of a number of techniques including die-casting, injection molding (particularly useful, for example, for making three-dimensional articles); extrusion (particularly useful, for example, for producing films, sheet materials, fibers and filaments, cylindrical tubes and cylindrical casings (ie, tubes) .The sheet or film materials may comprise a single layer or tub plurality of layers (ie. say, a multiple layered construction.) Multiple layer constructions can have the bright particles in one or more of the layers and optionally they can contain different shapes, sizes and concentrations of bright particles in the different layers. Brilliant according to the present invention can be incorporated into, or be mixed with, polymer granules suitable for injection molding Other examples of processes for incorporating bright particles according to the present invention into a matrix material of a finished article include Vacuum molding, blow molding, rotomolding, thermoforming, extrusion sion, compression molding and calendering. The orientation of the bright particles in the matrix material may be, for example, random, one with respect to the other, or may have substantially the same orientation one relative to the other or in relation to a surface of the matrix material. Alignment or orientation of the bright particles within the matrix material can be provided for example, by high-cut processing (eg extrusion or injection molding) of the matrix material containing bright particles, resulting in orientation or alignment of the bright particles along the direction of flow of the matrix material. Other techniques for orienting the bright particles within a matrix material may be apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the description of the present invention. Returning again to liquids having bright particles according to the present invention therein, such dispersions, or dispersible combinations can be made in solvents, ie, dissolved in an organic solvent) made in water (i.e., dissolved or dispersed) in water) of a single component or multiple components. When the dispersions or dispersible combinations are to be used to provide a coating on a surface, the liquid preferably can be a film-forming material. Examples of liquid media, although the compatibility (eg chemical compatibility) and therefore the suitability of a particular liquid will depend, for example, on the composition of the bright particles, as well as on the other components of the dispersions or Dispersible combinations include water, organic liquids (eg, alcohols, ketones (for a short period of time)) and mixtures thereof. It is noted that some matrix materials can sometimes be liquids and other times they can be solids. For example, at room temperature, the typical heat-melting adhesive materials are solid, while, when heated to their respective melting points, they are liquids. Furthermore, for example a liquid glue, before curing and / or drying is a liquid, but after it is cured and / or dried, it is a solid. The dispersions, or dispersible combinations can be, for example, curable, dry or the like to form another additional matrix (for example, a paint can be dried or cured to provide a solid or ened form). The dispersions, or dispersible combinations may include additives (eg antimicrobials, antistatics, blowing agents, dyes or pigments (eg for dyeing or otherwise imparting or altering the color of matrix material), curative materials, diluents, materials fillers, flame retardants, impact modifiers, initiators, lubricants, plasticizers, slip agents, stabilizers and coalescing aids, thickening aids, dispersion aids, defoamers and biocides) which provide, for example, a desirable characteristic or property in the desired final composite material (comprising the bright particles), and / or auxiliaries in the processing step (s) to make the desired final composite material (comprising the bright particles). In one aspect, the dispersible or dispersible combination includes a binder precursor material (i.e., a material that is convertible from a liquid (i.e., a flowable form), for example polymers dissolved in a solvent, polymer precursors dispersed in a solvent, polymer emulsions and curable liquids) in a solidified or hardened form. The precursors for converting the liquid binder precursor material to a solidified or hardened binder material include evaporation of a solvent, curing (i.e., hardening via a chemical reaction) and combinations thereof). Additional examples of binder precursors and binders for dispersions, or dispersible combinations containing bright particles according to the present invention include vinyl polymers, vinyl acrylic polymers, acrylic polymers, acrylic vinyl chloride polymers, styrene copolymers. butadiene, styrene / acrylate copolymers, vinyl acetate / ethylene copolymers, aminoalkyl resin, thermosetting acrylic resins, nitrocellulose resins, modified acrylic lacquers, straight chain acrylic lacquers, polyurethane resin, acrylic enamel resin, vinyl resins containing silyl groups and combinations thereof. Examples of dispersible or dispersible combinations which may contain bright particles according to the present invention include nail varnish, paint (which includes paint for automotive and marine applications, for interior and exterior house painting, painting for arts and articles, painting of recreation (for example, painting for scale model of toys), and painting for nails). Such dispersions or dispersible combinations are typically applied to a surface to provide a coating which is subsequently dried, cured or the like to provide a coating with a hardened non-wet surface. A particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention are cosmetic compositions comprising bright particles according to the present invention. Therefore, the shiny particles can be incorporated into powders, lotions, semisolid bars, liquids, creams and gels suitable for application on the face, body, and / or hair of people or animals. More specifically, the glossy particles of the present invention can advantageously be incorporated into hair styling compositions, facial decoration compositions and body decoration compositions. Such compositions can be applied to the body by pumping spray or aerosol spraying, painting or using a brush, sponge, similar cloth, or an applicator such as a wood or plastic bar, an isopo or with the fingers. Specific examples of cosmetic formulations include hair spray, hair gel, hair mousse, lipstick, lip gloss, face powder, liquid cosmetic foundation, body paint, body powder, nail varnish, eye shadow, eyeliners, correctors, blushes, masks, cosmetics that can be applied to teeth, wax for whiskers, blush, oil for massage and similar. The bright particles of the present invention can be formulated with other cosmetics with cosmetic ingredients such that the formulator may find useful such as (but not limited to); hydrocarbon waxes, solvent polymers (graft linear, elastomeric, co-) and gels; polymers containing silicon, waxes, solvents and gels; film-forming polymers, phase separation polymers, microfase separation polymers, film-forming agents (such as trisiloxyl), gelling agents (such as clay or artificial clay), fluorocarbon solvents and polymers, and the like. Additionally, the compositions of the present invention may further comprise medicaments or other active ingredients in the composition. For example, the composition may comprise anti-pruritus drugs or topical pain relief medicaments. Alternatively, the composition may incorporate components that absorb UV radiation to provide a sunscreen containing the bright particles. Compositions containing such active ingredients can benefit from the incorporation of the bright particles by identifying the user in all places where such a composition has been applied, thereby ensuring complete coverage of the desired substrate area by the composition, and it ensures that the composition is not applied excessively to areas that have already been covered. The cosmetic compositions according to the present invention provide a particular benefit in providing excellent visual appearance properties.

The size, shape, thickness and amount of bright particles used in a particular application, including applications described herein, may depend on many factors including the desired effect to be sought, cost, inherent limitations of the application (e.g. , if the bright particles are in a binder material, the amount of bright particles should not exceed the load capacity of the binder matrix, unless it is desired that the excess of bright particles be easily peeled off), and for liquid matrices, the viscosity of the dispersions, or other physical properties or operating characteristics of a matrix having bright particles therein. The glossy particles according to the present invention can also be applied to a surface by first applying a binder or adhesive material, and then applying the glossy particles, followed by drying as curing, solidifying or the like of the binder or the adhesive material. Examples of substrate for adhering the glossy particles include toys, sheet material fabrics (eg, paper, card stock and films), ornaments, plastics, wood and metal. The adhesion of the bright particles to the surface of a substrate can provide, for example, a decorative effect. Glossy particles can be added to a surface using any suitable form of bonding such as glue, pressure sensitive adhesive, heat-melted adhesive and sewn. When adhering with adhesive materials, the glossy particles may be applied color for example, or may be diffused onto the surface of a substrate coated with adhesive. The placement of the bright particles relative to the substrate can be provided in any of a variety of patterns and / or orientations that are desired. For example, bright particles can be randomly or evenly placed on a surface, and can be random in some areas of the surface and uniform in others. In addition, for example, bright particles can be randomly or uniformly oriented (for example evenly separated) with respect to the surface, and can be randomly oriented in some areas and uniformly in others. The shiny particles may have a pattern to provide, or be part of a material from which rights or a trademark may be obtained (eg, movie or TV characters) which includes a registered or recordable trademark, under any of the laws of countries, territories, etc. of the world.

Optionally, a coating (eg, a clear coat) can be applied over at least a portion of the glossy particles to provide additional bonding to the substrate, to provide protection to the shiny particles or to provide a visually more pleasing effect. To further illustrate examples of matrices having bright particles according to the present invention dispersed therein, several exemplary articles, which are included in Figures 6, 7 and 9, are shown in Figures 1-10 and 14-18. Examples of bright particles dispersed in a liquid (for example water). In addition, Figures 11-13 (and 14-18), present articles having bright particles attached thereto. With reference to Figure 1, a toy ball 10 has a substantially spherical main surface 11, a matrix material 12 (eg, a material such as silicone, rubber, urethane or polyvinyl chloride (PVC)), and the particles bright according to the present invention 14 dispersed randomly therein. The matrix material 12 (as shown) is sufficiently translucent (optionally transparent) so that an object can be observed when looking through the ball. Alternatively, for example, the matrix material is opaque = 7 (for example black) so that only the bright particles at the periphery of the ball are observable. The ball 10 can be made, for example, by injection molding a liquid containing bright particles, polymeric material, curing the polymeric material and then removing the resulting ball from the mold. With reference to Figure 2, the toy ball 20 has a substantially spherical main surface 21, an inner spherical region 23, and an outer spherical region. The interior region 23 comprises a first matrix material 22 and first bright particles 24 dispersed therein, and the outer region 25 comprises a second matrix material 26 and second bright particles 28 dispersed therein, wherein at least the bright particles 24 or 28 are bright particles according to the present invention. Optionally, the matrix material 22 is different from the matrix material 26. In one embodiment, for example, both the first matrix material 22 and the second matrix material 26 each are translucent, but the degree of translucent condition of the matrix material 22 is greater than that of the matrix material 26. In another embodiment, for example, the matrix material 22, which optionally may have the bright particles 24 therein, is opaque (for example black), and the outer region 25 is translucent so that the color or visual effect of the the interior region 23 is observable from the periphery of the ball. The ball 20 can be made, for example, by injection molding a liquid containing the bright particles, polymeric material, curing the polymeric material and then removing the resulting ball from the mold to provide the interior region 23; the outer region 25 can be formed by injection molding to provide two pieces of hemisphere which in turn are placed on the inner region and the two outer pieces are fixed together (for example using a liquid adhesive material). With reference to Figure 3, a toy ball 30 having a substantially spherical main surface 31, an interior region 33 and an exterior region 35 is presented. The inner region 33 comprises a first matrix material 32 and first bright particles 34 dispersed therein, and an outer region 35 comprising a second matrix material 36 and second bright particles 38 dispersed therein, wherein at least the bright particles 34 or 38 are bright particles according to the present invention, and wherein the average concentration of bright particles (i.e., the volume of bright particles per unit volume) in the interior region 33 is greater than in the exterior region. Optionally, the matrix material 32 is different from the matrix material 36. In one embodiment, for example, both the first matrix material 32, the second matrix material 36 are each translucent, but the degree of translucent condition of the matrix material 36 is greater than that of the matrix material 32. With reference to Figure 4, the toy ball 40 has a substantially spherical main surface 41, an interior region 43 and an exterior region. The inner region 43 comprises a first matrix material 42 and first bright particles 44 dispersed therein, and the outer region 45 comprises a second matrix material 46 and second bright particles 48 dispersed therein, wherein at least one set of bright particles 44 or 48 are bright particles according to the present invention, and wherein each bright particle has a width and length that are substantially greater than the thickness of a respective particle and, wherein at least one of the bright particles 44 or 48 are generally oriented in the form of swirl patterns in Figure 4. Optionally, the matrix material 42 is different from the matrix material 46. In one embodiment, for example, both the first matrix material 42 and the second matrix material 46 are each translucent, but the degree of translucent condition of the matrix material 46 is greater than that of the matrix material 42. In another embodiment, for example, the matrix material 42, which may optionally have bright particles 44 therein, is opaque (for example black), and the outer region 45 is translucent so that the color or visual effect of the Interior region 43 is observable from the periphery of the ball. With reference to Figure 5, a toy ball 50 has a substantially spherical main surface 51, an interior non-spherical region 53, and an outer spherical region 55. The inner region 53 comprises a first matrix material 52 and first bright particles 54 placed therein, and an outer region comprises a second matrix material 56 and second bright particles 58 dispersed therein, wherein at least some of the bright particles 54 or 58 are bright particles according to the present invention. Optionally, the matrix material 52 is different from the matrix material 56. In one embodiment, for example, both the first matrix material 52 and the second matrix material 56 are each translucent, but the degree of translucent condition of the matrix material 56 is greater than that of the matrix material 52. In another embodiment, for example, the matrix material 52, which optionally may have bright particles 54 therein, is opaque (for example black) and the outer region 55 is translucent so that the color or visual effect of the inner region 53 is observable from the periphery of the ball. The non-spherical region 53 can have any number. of desired forms (for example a recordable material or a trademark) for example cinema or TV characters)). With reference to Figure 6, the toy ball 60 has a substantially spherical main surface 61, an inner region 63 and an outer spherical region 65. The inner region 63 comprises a liquid or gel 62 and first bright particles 64 dispersed, or dispersible therein, and the outer region comprises a matrix material 66 and optional second bright particles 68 dispersed therein, wherein at least one of the bright particles 64 or 68 are bright particles according to the present invention. Optionally, the liquid or gel 62 is dyed, instead of being only transparent. With reference to figure 7, a toy ball 60 has a substantially spherical main surface 71, an interior region 73 and an outer spherical region 75. The inner region 73 comprises a liquid or gel 72, pieces 79 and first bright particles 74 dispersed, or dispersible therein and an outer region comprising a first matrix material 76 and second bright particles 78 dispersed therein. The parts 79 are shown as consisting of a second matrix material 80 and second bright particles 82 dispersed therein. Only a set of the bright particles 74, 78 and 82 need be present, and at least one of the sets of bright particles present are bright particles according to the present invention. Optionally, the liquid or gel 72 is dyed, instead of being only transparent. The general concepts illustrated in figures 7, which are by no means considered exhaustive with regard to, for example, the type of matrices, combinations of matrices, bright particles and combinations of bright particles in the constructions, are adaptable to any of a wide variety of other articles besides. To illustrate this point, some of such examples are shown in Figures 8 to 18. With reference to figure 8, a doll or figure 180 of action comprises a torso 182, legs 183, arms 184 and a head 185. The torso 182 comprises a first matrix material 186 and a second matrix material 188. The first matrix material 186, which has bright particles according to the present invention 187 dispersed therein, is sufficiently translucent to allow the second matrix 188, which preferably is of a darker color (eg black). ) compared to the first matrix material 186, can be observed through it. The wrist or action figure 180 can be manufactured, for example, using conventional processing techniques in which the bright particles according to the present invention are used as a raw material. For example, the first matrix material 186 may first be made into a sheet having bright particles according to the present invention dispersed therein. Such sheet can then be shaped into the desired final shape, for example, by vacuum forming techniques. The formed sheet can then be placed in a mold (for the wrist or action figure), and the mold is filled with a precursor of the second matrix material 188. Such a precursor material can then be converted to provide the wrist or action figure 180. With reference to Figure 9, the winter scene balloon 90 comprises a transparent dome 94, which is attached to the base 92 to provide a camera 96 sealed The sealed chamber 96 contains liquid 98 (for example water), a winter or holiday scene 99 and a plurality of bright particles, according to the present invention. 97. The bright particles 97 can be dispersed in the liquid ara 98 by agitation of the balloon 90. After shaking, the 06. bright particles will sediment through the liquid 98, of due to gravity, simulating a "snowfall". Typically, the liquid 98, although you can also use the Other liquids and optionally the liquid can be dyed. pas With reference to FIG. 10, the sheet material 100 (for example, a multilayer film) (for example an elaborated polymer film, for example, Lias). polyethylene, polypropylene or polyester)) comprises a plurality of layers, four of which are shown with the numbers 101, 102, 103 and 104. At least one layer includes the bright particles according to the present invention are dispersed therein. For example, as shown with the; ura number 102, the bright particles 106 are dispersed 5 in randomly in it. Typically, a sufficient amount of layers are translucent in order to allow the that the light hits the film to reach the anger) bright particles 106. For example, the bright red particles 106 will be observed through the layer 101, such that The layer should be translucent enough to allow the observer to see through it the bright particles icie 106. In addition, if the observer is going to observe the particles a main surface of the polymer film). With reference to Figure 11, the coating 110 containing bright particles is present on the surface 111 of the substrate 112. The coating 110 comprises a translucent binder material 114 having bright particles 116 randomly dispersed therein. The substrate 112 can have any of various substrates, including a decorative ornament (such as that which is placed on a tree; such an ornament optionally includes a motor mechanism that allows the ornament to rotate so that a desirable visual effect can be obtained when light interacts with bright particles), a plastic or paper sheet, jewelry and cloth. With reference to Figures 12 and 13, the bright particles 126 are shown adhered to a binder material (for example an adhesive material such as a hot melt adhesive or a pressure sensitive adhesive 124)., which in turn adheres to the surface 121 of the substrate 122. As shown, the bright particles 126 are in the form of a pattern. Optionally, for example, the bright particles 126 may be uniformly distributed or even in a -orientated direction (eg, arranged so that the thickness of the particles is perpendicular to or parallel to the surface 121. The substrate 122 may be any of a variety of substrates that include a decorative ornament (such as one that is put on a tree; such ornament optionally includes a motor mechanism that allows the ornament to rotate so that a desirable visual effect can be obtained when the light interacts with the bright particles), a plastic or paper sheet, jewelry and cloth. In another aspect, the shiny particles according to the present invention can be used to provide a hand-held toy light tube comprising a handle that includes a first end, a tube (which includes a cylinder or cone) (for example example a tube or film) extending from the first end, and a light source (ie, an article that includes a source that generates light in opposition to that in which only ambient light is reflected), connected (and that it includes in it) at hand, where the light source is configured to be activated by a power source. The bright particles according to the present invention can be incorporated in any of many positions and / or within the hand-held light tube. For example, the shiny particles may be dispersed within the tube (eg loosely within the tube and / or in the material constituting the tube or presenting) and / or on a main surface (eg the inner surface and / or or outside) of the tube. Preferably, the light source is placed on the first end of the handle. In another aspect, the light source is preferably a point light source (e.g., a portable lamp). When energized or activated, the light source interacts with at least a portion of the bright particles of the tube, which produces an optical effect (typically a bright effect of multiple colors) visible to the user and / or observers. Optionally, the toy light tube includes a power source electrically coupled to the light source together with a switch to control the activation of the light source. Although the light source is described as being connected to the handle, it is understood that the light source can be connected directly to the handle, or alternatively, it can be connected to the handle by means of a structure or intermediate element. With reference to FIGS. 14 and 15, the hand-held light tube 140 (e.g., a toy) includes a handle 142, a light source (e.g., a portable lamp) 144, a tube 146, and bright particles according to the invention (for example, bright particles 143 in the material 141 of translucent matrix). The handle 142 has a body 148 and ends 130, 132. The light source 144 is connected to the handle and is configured to be activated for the E9. power source 134 (e.g. batteries shown in dashed lines), and placed on end 130 of handle 142. Tube 146 extends from end 130 of handle 142. Brilliant particles can be incorporated into any of many positions and / or inside the tube 140 of light that can be held by the hand. For example, the shiny particles may be placed within a matrix material 141, as shown in Figure 15, attached to the main inner and / or outer main surface of the tube 146 and / or present loosely within the tube 146 The tube 146 can be placed in many different ways. The activation of a point light source 144 directs light within at least a portion of the tube 146. The tube 146, which is partially translucent (or transmissive) transmits light from the light source 144. In a preferred embodiment, the hand-held toy light tube 140 resembles an elongated cone or sword, although the tube may also be, for example, a cylindrical tube or a conical section. The body 148 is preferably hollow to contain a power source 134 (for example a battery), to activate the light source 144. The end 132 is preferably threadably fixed to the body 148, and one end 130 is preferably rotatably fixed to the body 148.

The end 130 is preferably configured to receive and maintain the light source 144. In addition, end 130 optionally includes a translucent or filtered front edge 136 (e.g., a transparent lens) through which light can pass from source 144 of light. In this regard, the end 130 is configured to direct light from the light source 144 to the leading edge 136. In a preferred embodiment, the handle 142 is, or has an appearance similar to a portable lamp, where, for example, the body 148 and the ends 130, 132, can be manufactured separately, but are configured for integral connection. In this regard, the end 132 can be threadably attached to the body 148 to maintain the power source 134 within the body 148. The end 130 is preferably rotatably fixed to the body 148 and acts as a switch operably connected between the source 134. of energy and the source 144 of light. That is, the rotation of the end 130 in relation to the body 148 moves the light source 144 by placing it or out of electrical contact with the power source 134. Alternatively, for example, the end 130 can be permanently fixed to the body 148 and can be placed with a switch operated by the fingers, for example, along the outer circumference of the body 148 to activate the light source 144.

The components of the hand-held toy light tubes can be made of any suitable material, including those described herein, although some materials may be more suitable than others depending, for example, on the particular use of the toy. For example, suitable materials for the handle may include a rigid material (e.g. hard plastic, aluminum, stainless steel or wood) or more flexible materials such as rubber. The light source can be, for example, electric and / or guimic (for example chemiluminescent (see, for example, U.S. Patent Nos. 4,717,511 (Koroscil), 5,043,851 (Kaplan), and 5,232,635 (Van Moer et al.))). Preferably, the light source emits visible radiation (i.e., electromagnetic radiation having one or more wavelengths in the range of about 4 x 10"7 to 7 x 10 ~ 7 m) and / or UV radiation (i.e. electromagnetic radiation having one or more wavelengths in the range of about 6 x 10"8 m to 4 x 10" 7 m), although for some uses (for example for photographic or electronic recording), other lengths of In addition, it is understood that a person skilled in the art can select a light source to emit the wavelengths of light and an optical film (e.g. visible reflection) to provide the desired visual effect.The light source is preferably an incandescent light bulb, although other light sources such as a black light lamp, a halogen lamp or a light emitting diode can also be used. The light source may include a plurality of lamps. Even further, for example, the light source can be configured to have a peak spectral distribution. Preferably, the light source emits radiation towards the tube of film or film material. Preferred light sources which also have handles include portable lamps (which include those sold by MAG Instrument of Ontario, CA under the trade designation "MAGLITE"). Referring again to Figure 14, tube 146 is preferably formed in a cone having a first proximal end 131, an intermediate portion 133 and a second distal end 135. The proximal end 131 is configured for attachment to the end 130 of the handle 142. The intermediate portion 133 extends from the proximal end 131 and is preferably constructed to be relatively rigid. The distal end 135 is not attached or is free. There, the tube 146 is configured so that the movement of the handle 142 imparts a similar movement on the tube 146. In other words, the tube 146 will move in the same direction as the handle 142. As described with greater Detail in the following, tube 146 may be formed by wrapping or bending a continuous sheet of film material. In addition, because the tube 146 is typically relatively rigid, the extended position of the tube 146 relative to the handle 142 is generally maintained regardless of the position or movement of the handle 142. The toy light tube 140 can be held by the hand of a preferred embodiment can be constructed, for example as follows. The light source 144 (e.g., a portable lamp) is positioned at or near the end 130 of the handle 142. The tube 146 is curved or rolled in relation to the handle 142 so that the proximal end 131 is formed around and attached to the end 130 of handle 142 by an adhesive material (e.g. an adhesive tape, a curable liquid adhesive or the like). In one embodiment, the tube 146 is curved to form a cone, so that the distal end 135 forms a closed tip. There, the interior of the tube 146 is typically filled with air, although other means allowing the passage of light may also be useful. In other embodiments according to the present invention, the distal end 135 need not be closed. In other words, the tube 146 may be curved relative to the handle 142 so that the distal end 135 is open, so that the tube or sheet of film material 146 is a straight cylinder. With this configuration, part of the light will pass outward from the distal end 135, projecting onto a nearby wall or ceiling. It is also within the scope of the present invention to close the distal end 135 (for example, it can be covered with a film or sheet material, such as a color shift film). In addition, although the tube 146 is shown with a circular cross section, other shapes are acceptable. For example, the tube may have an elliptical cross section. Alternatively, for example, the tube may have a polyhedral cross section such as hexagonal or octagonal. During use, the light source 144, in a preferred embodiment, is activated by rotating the end 130 of the handle 142 relative to the body 148, although other ways of activating the light source 144 (e.g., a separate switch) also It is useful. In a preferred embodiment, the light from the light source 144 is directed through the leading edge 136 of the handle 142 into the interior of the tube 146. The visual appearance of the tube 146 can be altered, for example, by including a translucent filter in the front edge of the handle (for example, the leading edge 136 of the handle 142 in Figure 14). The filter can alter the wavelengths of light emitted by the light source, therefore, the colors produced by the tube are varied. For example, the filter can be configured to concentrate or die the light emitted by the light source. Additionally, the filter can be configured to concentrate the light in some areas and die the light in others. Optionally, the filter is or includes a color shift film. In some embodiments according to the present invention (see, for example, Figure 14), tube 146 is attached directly to one end of the handle. Other forms of attachment are also useful, for example, Figure 16 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the hand-held toy light tube, according to the present invention 14OA, which is similar to the device 140 shown in the figure 14. The toy light tube 140A includes a handle 142A, a light source 144A, a tube 146A, and a link body 139 for connecting the tube 146A to the end 13OA of the handle 142A. Although the bonding body 139 is shown as a band of a color shift film formed integrally with the tube 146A, it may be in other suitable shapes such as an opaque or translucent plastic, or a reflected material (for example, a visible reflection film). The connecting body 139 can be, for example, a disk or a ring attached to the end 13OA of the handle 142A. The tube 146A joins and extends from the connecting body 139. Another exemplary embodiment of the hand-held toy light tube according to the present invention is shown in Figure 17. Hand-held toy light tube 160 includes a handle 162, a light source (not shown). , a joining body 164, a tube 166 (made of a translucent film or a sheet material), the shiny particles according to the present invention (not shown) and the protective enclosure 168. The handle 162 includes an end 152, a body 153 and an end 154. The light source (not shown) is positioned within the end 154. In addition, the tube 166 and the protective enclosure 168 are connected to the end 154 of the handle 162 via the joining body 164. The tube 166 is preferably conical in shape, approximately, forming a tip at the distal end 167. The bright particles can be incorporated in any of many positions and / or within a hand-held light tube 160. For example, the bright particles may be placed within a matrix material forming the tube 166, within the protective enclosure 168, attached to the main interior and / or main exterior surface of the tube 166 and / or the protective enclosure 168, and / or present loosely inside the tube 166 and / or the protective enclosure 168.

In a preferred embodiment, the protective enclosure 168 is a diffuse or transparent material, such as plastic. The protective enclosure 168 is attached to, and extends from the end 154 of the handle 162 and is generally shaped to, and surrounds the tube 166. In one embodiment, the protective enclosure 168 is kept separate from the tube 166. Alternatively, it may also be useful to join the tube 166 to the interior of a protective enclosure 168 with an adhesive material. In one embodiment, the tube 166 adheres (e.g. using an adhesive material) to the protective enclosure 168. Suitable adhesive materials may be apparent to those skilled in the art and include a high bonding adhesive (available, for example, as a glued tape on both sides from 3M Company of St. Paul, MN under the trade designation "VHB ADHESIVE. "(# P9460PC)), an epoxy resin or binder can also be used. Regardless of the exact shape of the adhesive material used to secure the tube to the protective enclosure, the adhesive material is preferably optically clean to minimize the effect, if any, on the light from the tube light source of the film or film material. The protective enclosure 168 is preferably rigid and serves to protect the tube 166 from damage while allowing the light of the tube 166 to pass therethrough.

Alternatively, the protective enclosure 168 can be configured to assume an optical characteristic and the filter light produced through the tube 166. The protective enclosure 168 also helps to maintain the extended position of the tube 166 relative to the handle 162. As with FIG. with the previous embodiments, the hand-held toy light tube 160 is preferably activated by rotational movement of the end 154 in relation to the body 153. The light from the light source (not shown) is directed to the tube 166. The movement of the handle 162 imparts a reciprocating movement to the tube 166 and the protective enclosure 168. The protective enclosure 168 protects the tube 166 from potential damage that would otherwise be caused by accidental contact of the light tube 160 of the hand-held toy with an object. In addition, protective enclosure 168 maintains tube 166 in an extended position. The hand-held toy light tube 160 optionally includes signs 165 (which may be, for example, a federally registered mark (in the US)) on an outer circumference of the protective enclosure 168. Alternatively, for example, the signs 165 may be in the form of a registered or recordable material, or in the form of a trademark, which includes a trademark registered or registrable under any of the laws of the countries, territories, etc., of the world . In another aspect, the tube 166A may be configured to include optional signs of a trademark (which includes a federally registered trademark (in the U.S.)) and / or recordable material as described above. In another aspect, the hand-held toy light tube 160 includes an optional sign 169 on the outer circumference of the handle 162. Alternatively, another trademark or recordable material may be used as described above. Yet another alternative embodiment of the hand-held toy light tube, according to the present invention, is shown in Figures 18 and 19. The hand-held toy light tube 180 includes a handle 182, a source of light (not shown), bright particles according to the present invention (not shown) and tube 184. Handle 182 includes an end 186, a body 188 and an end 190. The light source (not shown) is placed inside of end 190 of handle 182, which additionally functions as a switch in a preferred embodiment. Therefore, the rotational movement of the end 190 in relation to the body 192 controls the activation of the light source (not shown). The tube 184 includes a first section 192, a second section 194, and a third section 196. The first section 192 is configured to telescopically receive the second section 194 and the third section 196. In that regard, the first section 192 includes one end 198 proximal, an intermediate portion 191 and a distal end 193. Similarly, the second section 194 includes a proximal end 195, an intermediate portion 197 and a distal end 199. Finally, the third section 196 includes a proximal end 181, an intermediate portion 183 and a distal end 185. The bright particles can be incorporated in any of many positions on and / or within the hand held light tube 180. For example, the shiny particles may be placed within the tube 184 (which includes one or more sections thereof), attached to the larger inner surface and / or outer surface of the tube 184 (which includes such sections greater or more sections thereof). ), and / or present loosely within the tube 184. The proximal end 198 of the first section 192 is dimensioned for attachment to the end 190 of the handle 182. In addition, the intermediate portion 191 of the first section 192 is sized to slidably receive. the second tube 186 in a telescopic manner. In this regard, the intermediate portion 191 of the first section 192 preferably assumes a conical shape so that the proximal end 198 has a larger diameter than the distal end 193. In addition, the distal end 193 of the first section 192 has a slightly smaller diameter than that of the proximal end 195 of the second section 194. Therefore, the second section 194 can not be decoupled from the first section 192 during use. The second section 194 and the third section 196 are constructed similar to the first section 192, but with reduced diameters. Therefore, the second section 194 and the third section 196 preferably are conical in shape. The intermediate portion 197 of the second section 194 is dimensioned to slidably receive the third section 196. However, the distal end 199 of the second section 194 has a slightly smaller diameter than that of the proximal end 181 of the third section 196 so that the third section 196 is not completely decoupled from the second section 194 during use. With the configuration just described, the tube 184 can be maintained either in an extended position, as shown, for example in Figure 18, or a retracted position as shown, for example, in FIG. 19. In the extended position, the second section 194 extends outward from the first section 192 so that the proximal end 195 of the second section 194 is approximately adjacent the distal end 193 of the first section. 192. In this regard, because the proximal end 195 of the second section 194 has a diameter slightly larger than that of the first distal end 193 of the first section 192, the second section 194 is held frictionally in the extended position. The third section 196 is similarly maintained in the extended position in relation to the second section 194. Additional stop or joint devices may be used to maintain the tube 184 in the extended position. In the retracted position (Figure 19), the third section 196 and the second section 194 slide within the first section 192. In one embodiment, each of the first section 192, the second section 194 and the third section 196 are constituted of a translucent matrix material and bright particles according to the present invention. The sheet of film material used for each of the first section 192, the second section 194 and the third section 196 may be the same, or may differ for one or all of the sections 192-196. For example, the bright particles of • the first section 192 can show a series of optical characteristics (for example a series of colors), while the bright particles of the second section 194 and the third section 196 show a different series of optical characteristics (for example, a series of colors) . Alternatively, for example, other materials having different optical characteristics for one or two of the sections 192, 194 or 196 may also be useful. Additionally, although the tube 184 is shown with three sections 192, 194 and 196, an higher or lower number The sustainable toy light tube 180 in the hand can further include protective enclosures each comprising a first section 192, a second section 194 and / or a third section 196, either individually or in its entirety. During use, end 190 of handle 182 is rotated relative to body 188 to activate the light source (not shown) via a connection to a power supply (not shown). Alternatively, a switch operated by the fingers may be provided along the exterior surface of the handle 182. The light from the light source is directed from the end 190 to the interior of the tube 184. In the extended position (FIG. 18) by at least a portion of the tube 184, which possibly includes the first section 192, the second section 194 and the third section 196, shows optical characteristics (eg brightness, bright colors), in response to light from the light source. Similarly, in the retracted position (Figure 19), the first section 192 shows optical characteristics (e.g., bright optical features and multiple colors). The sustainable toy light tube 180 with the hand can be maneuvered from a retracted position (Figure 19) to an extended position (Figure 18), by a rapid rotational movement of the handle 182. The rotational movement of the handle 182 is imparted on the first section 192. The centrifugal force generated by this rotational movement forces the second section 194 and the third section 196 to an extended position. Alternatively, for example, the third section 196 may simply be held at the distal end 185 by a user or may be pulled outward, thereby extending the third section 196 and the second section 194. Conversely, the tube 184 is maneuvered from the extended position to the retracted position when pushing the third section 96 towards the handle 182. Once the third section 196 retracts into the second section 194, the continued force on the distal end 199 of the second section 194 will retract the second and third sections 194, 196, within the first section 192. The use of a telescopic design for the tube improves user enjoyment by providing an extendable tube, for example, by simple movement of the user's wrist. Further details regarding hand-held light tubes can be found, for example, in the application having the serial number U.S. No. 09 / 006,088, filed January 13, 1998. With reference to Figure 20, the tape 200 comprises a sheet material 202, which may be a single or multiple layer material, an adhesive material 204 on the surface 203 principal, and at least one "glitter" particles, according to the present invention, 206, 207 or 208. As shown, the shiny particles 206 adhere to the main surface 201 with (optionally translucent) material 205 of matrix (e.g., a binder or adhesive material), the shiny particles 207 are embedded in the matrix material 209 (optionally translucent), and the shiny particles 208 adhere to the main surface 203 with the adhesive material 211. The shiny particles 206 may be partially or completely embedded in the matrix material 205. If the bright particles 206 is not present, then the matrix material 205 is optional. Optionally, the tape 200 further comprises a release liner 213. The shiny particles may have a pattern, for example, to provide a design and / or may be part of a recordable material or a trademark (as discussed above, for example with respect to Figures 14-19). With reference to Figure 21, the decals (including labels) 210, comprise a sheet material 222, which may be a single or multiple layer material, an adhesive material 224 on a main surface 223, and at least particles glossy according to the present invention 226, 227 or 228. As shown, the shiny particles 226 adhere to the main (optionally translucent) surface 201 of matrix material 225 (for example with a binder or adhesive material), the particles Brilliates 227 are embedded in the matrix material 229 (optionally translucent), and the shiny particles 228 adhere to the main surface 203 with the adhesive material 231. The shiny particles 226 may be partially or completely embedded in the matrix material 225. If the shiny particles 226 are not present, then the matrix material 225 is optional. Optionally, the decals or labels 210 further comprise a release liner 233. The shiny particles may have a pattern, for example, to provide a design, and / or to be a part of a recordable material or a trademark (as discussed above, for example, with respect to Figures 14 to 19). Additional details regarding decals can be found, for example, in the co-pending application having serial number U.S. No. 09 / 006,939, filed on January 13, 1998.

With reference to Figure 22, lighting article 210 comprises a lighting surface 224 (illumination is provided, for example, by a light source (e.g., an electroluminiscent device (e.g., an electroluminescent sheet device), or other light source (for example an incandescent light bulb, a black light bulb, a halogen light bulb or a light emitting diode)) and the bright particles according to the present invention 226 in the translucent matrix material 228 (as shown, a binder or adhesive material, although the bright particles may be, for example, embedded in the matrix material, or in a sheet material that adheres or covers the illuminated surface. pattern, for example, to provide a design and / or may be part of a recordable material or a trademark (as discussed above, for example with respect to the figures 14 to 19) An "electroluminescent sheet device", which, in contrast to a light source (including a light emitting diode) has an extended light emitting surface area (i.e., at least 1 cm , typically at least 2 cm2, at least 5 cm2 or greater), which typically provides uniform light emission from the surface. Typically, such a device has a length and width that are much greater than its thickness (i.e., at least 10 times, typically at least 25 times, and more typically at least 100 times greater than thickness devices). ). Suitable electroluminescent foil devices (also referred to as "electro-luminescent foil lamps") are known in the art and are based on the electroluminescence of a light-emitting material (e.g., a phosphor material, an organic light emitter). (for example a triphenyldiamine (TPD) derivative, polyphenylene vinyl (PPV), a quinolinol metal complex (Al-q) or similar, (for example alkaline earth metal thiogalates doped with Mn-ZnS (for example CaGaS))) in the presence of an electric field, where phosphorus (or the like) is excited and emits photons. Most of the radial energy is within the visible range of the spectrum. Generally, an electroluminescent sheet device is electrically similar to a capacitor and comprises a dielectric layer comprising light emitting phosphor (or the like) interposed between two electrically conductive layers. At least one additional dielectric layer may also be present. The main purpose of the additional dielectric layer is to allow the electroluminescent material (ie, f the phosphor material or the like) to register higher voltages without producing a short between the conductive surfaces. Electroluminescent devices illuminate when energized with an applied voltage. As voltage is applied to the conductive surfaces, an electric field is generated through the phosphorus (or other material), and the dielectric layers. The electrons are excited from the valence band within the conduction band or are injected into the conduction band of the luminescent material. Many of these excited electrons decay to external energy states with light emission. The emitted light passes through a transparent front electrode (of the device) and then returns to its basal states. Preferably, the electroluminescent sheet devices used in the practice of the present invention are flat or straight. Typically, electroluminescent sheet devices have a thickness in the range of about 0.05 mm to about 20 mm, more typically from about 0.1 to about 5 mm, depending, for example, on the type of device and substrate. Generally, there are at least three types of electroluminescent sheet devices, which are sometimes referred to as "organic thin film type" (small molecule type (see, for example, US Nos. 4,356,429 (Tang), 5,409,783 (Tang) ,554,450 (Shi et al.)) And "conjugated polymer type" (see, for example, U.S. Patent No. 5,247,190 (Friend et al.)), "inorganic thin film type" (see, e.g., U.S. Patent No. 5,598,059 (Sun et al.)); and inorganic particles of the thick film type (see for example U.S. Patent Nos. 5,469,019 (Mori), 5,508,585 (Butt), 5,156,885 (Budd), 5,418,062 (Budd), 5,439,705 (Budd), ,491,377 (Janusaukas) and 5,593,782 (Budd)). The electroluminescent devices can be adapted by using, for example, different compositions and / or filters to provide various colors (eg, purple, blue, blue-green, orange, white, orange-yellow, yellow and red). Unlike filaments or fluorescent lamps, the electroluminescent devices do not fail catastrophically or fail abruptly, but rather the brightness of the lamp gradually decreases for extended periods of time. The characteristics of the degradation behavior can vary with the different devices and electroluminescent materials. The duration of an electroluminescent lamp is typically affected by voltage, frequency, temperature, oxygen and humidity. Humidity is typically highly damaging to luminescent materials in all types of lamps, unless such an effect is controlled. Techniques for protecting the lamp material from the effects of moisture are known in the art, and are particularly prevalent for commercially available lamps. Thin film types are generally manufactured on glass substrate and protected on the non-light emitting side by metal or other inorganic coatings. The organic types are usually sealed with a second sheet of glass. Thick film particulate lamps are particularly advantageous because they are currently robust lamps which do not require a glass substrate. The protection against moisture is obtained by macroencapsulation of the entire lamp with sheets of a low permeability polymer (such as that available under the trade designation "ACLAR" from Allied Chemical), or by microencapsulation of the particulate phosphorus material in a material that is resistant or moisture-tight, such as oxide materials (eg, titanium, alumina and silica) (see, for example, US Pat. Nos. 5,156,885 (Budd), 5,418,062 (Budd), 5,439,705 (Budd) and 5,593,782 (Budd. Budd)). The particulate electroluminescent phosphors, for example, are most commonly used in thick film constructions. These devices typically include a layer of an organic dielectric matrix (eg, polyester, polyethylene terephthalate, cellulosic materials, etc.), which preferably have a high dielectric constant, charged with phosphorus particles (eg, phosphorus particles based on sulfur). . Such layers are typically coated on a plastic substrate having a transparent front electrode. A rear electro (for example a thin aluminum foil or a printed silver ink screen) is typically applied to the back side of the phosphor layer. When an electric field is applied through the electrodes, the near portions of the light emitting layer like the phosphor particles in it are excited. Such constructions may further comprise optional dielectric layers between the phosphor layer and the rear electrodes. A preferred electroluminescent (thick film) device comprises, in order, a first electrode, a dielectric matrix layer filled with electroluminescent phosphorus particles encapsulated, and a back electrode, wherein the encapsulated phosphor particles each comprise a phosphorus particle. electroluminescent based on zinc sulphide which is essential or completely encapsulated within continuous metal oxide precursors, substantially transparent, and wherein the encapsulated phosphor particles have an electroluminescent brightness which is equal to or greater than about 50 percent of the initial electroluminescent brightness of the uncoated phosphor particle, and the percent of electroluminescent brightness retained by the particles. Encapsulated phosphor particles after 100 hours of operation in an environment having a relative humidity of at least 95 percent is greater than about 70 percent of the intrinsic brilliance retained after 100 hours of operation, the initial brightness of the change in the electroluminescent brightness in an environment having a relative humidity of at least 95 percent and a change in intrinsic brightness are measured under substantially equal operating conditions (for further details, see U.S. Patent No. 5,593,782 (Budd)). Preferably, the electroluminescent material (e.g. phosphorus) is encapsulated to reduce, minimize or avoid the effects of moisture or wetting on the duration of the device (see, for example, US Patent Nos. 5,156,885 (Budd), 5,418,062 (Budd) , 5,439,705 (Budd), and 5,593,782 (Budd) A commercially available phosphor electroluminescent device, which uses encapsulated inorganic particles, is available, for example, from Durel Corp. of Chandler, AZ, under the trade designation "DUREL 3 EL "Other electroluminescent devices which may be suitable in the practice of the present invention are available, for example, from NEC Corporation of Tokyo, Japan and (under the trade designation "PERMA-LIGHT") of Quantex of Rockville, MD. In one aspect, the glossy particles according to the present invention can be used to provide a sustainable novelty item by hand, comprising a handle (which includes a first end) and a plurality of sections of sheet or film material which they extend from the first end, and a light source (ie, the article includes a source that generates light, as opposed to just reflecting the ambient light) connected to the handle, where the light source is configured to be activated by a power source, and wherein the sheet of film material includes bright particles according to the present invention. Preferably, the light source is placed on the first end of the handle. In another aspect, the light source is preferably a point light source (e.g., a portable lamp). When energized or activated, the light source illuminates at least a portion of the plurality of sections of the sheet or film material.

Optionally, the article includes a power source electrically coupled to the light source together with a switch to control the activation of the light source. With reference to Figures 22 and 23, hand-held novelty article 240 includes a handle 242, a light source 244 and a plurality of sections of sheet or film material 246. The sheet or film material 246 comprises a matrix material 243 (typically a translucent material) and glossy particles 245, in accordance with the present invention. The handle 242 has a body 248 and ends 250 and 252. The light source 244 is connected to the handle and is configured to be activated by a power source 253 (e.g., a battery shown in dashed lines) and placed on the end 252 of handle 242. A plurality of sections of sheet or film material 246 extend from end 252 of handle 242. A plurality of sections of sheet or film material 246 can be arranged in many different ways. The activation of the light source 244 directs the light onto at least a portion of the bright particles 245. the bright particles 245 interact with the light from the light source 244, providing a visual effect (eg brightly colored). In a preferred embodiment, article 240 of sustainable novelty with the hand resembles a tassel. The body 248 is preferably hollow to maintain the energy source such as the battery 253 to activate the light source 244. In addition, the end 250 is preferably threadably attached to the body 248 and the end 252 is preferably rotatably fixed to the body 248. The end 252 is preferably configured to receive and maintain the light source 244. In addition, end 252 preferably includes a translucent or filtered front edge 254 (e.g., a transparent lens) through which light can pass from source 244 of light. In this regard, the end 252 is configured to direct light from the light source 244 to the leading edge 254. In a preferred embodiment, the handle 242 is, or is in a similar manner, to the portable lamp, where, for example, the body 248 and the ends 250 and 252 can be made separately, but are configured for integral connection . In this regard, the end 250 can be threadably attached to the body 248 to maintain the power source 253 within the body 248. The end 252 is preferably rotatably fixed to the body 248 and acts as a switch operably connected between the power source 253 and the power source 253. 244 light source. That is, rotation of the end 252 in relation to the body 248 moves the light source 244 in and out of contact with the power source 253. Alternatively, for example, the end 252 may be permanently fixed to the body 248 and an additional switch operated by the fingers may be placed along the outer circumference of the body 248 to activate the light source 244. The widths of the sections of the sheet or film material may vary as desired, and for many embodiments may vary from about 0.2 mm (8 mils) to about 5 mm, typically from about 1.6 mm (0.0625 inches) to about 3 mm (0.125 inches), although other widths are also useful. The components of the sustainable article by hand may be made from any suitable material including those described herein, although some materials may be more suitable than others, depending on the use of the particular article. For example, suitable materials for the handle may include a rigid material (e.g. hard plastic, aluminum, stainless steel or wood), or non-rigid materials, such as rubber. Preferably, the light source emits visible light as described above, with respect to Figures 14 to 19. Preferably, the bright particles according to the present invention reflect and transmit light over a broad bandwidth so that when turn on, the bright particles provide an optical effect of a brightly colored appearance. In one embodiment, the hand-held novelty article includes a plurality of sections that do not include bright particles, according to the present invention (eg, paper) interspaced with a plurality of sections of sheet material or sheet including the particles bright With reference to Figure 22, each of the plurality of sections of sheet or film material 246 preferably each band has a first proximal end 256, an intermediate portion 258 and a second distal end 259. In a preferred embodiment, the plurality of sections of the sheet or film material 246 includes at least 20 bands. The proximal end 256 is configured for attachment to the end 252 of the handle 242. The intermediate portion 258 extends from the proximal end 256 and is preferably constructed to be flexible. The distal end 259 is unbound or free. Therefore, each of the plurality of sections of the sheet or film material 246 is configured so that the intermediate portion 258 can be bent or bent. In a preferred embodiment, the sheet or film material (246) is configured such that when it is curved, the shiny particles in the intermediate portion 258 show at least two different colors (e.g. green in transmission at normal incidence and pink ( or magenta) in transmission at oblique angles, that is, at least part of the bright particles in the intermediate portion 258 are of one color, and the others of a different color (optically differentiable) when viewed from the same position. plurality of sections of the sheet or film material 246 are preferably cut from a single sheet of the sheet or film material The hand held article 240 of a novelty can be constructed as follows The source 244 of light is placed at or near the end 252 of the handle 242 when the light source 244 and the handle 242 are a portable lamp.The end 256 proxies the each of the plurality of sections. of the sheet or film material 246 is attached to the end 252 of the handle 242. In a preferred embodiment, each of the plurality of sections of the sheet or film material 246 is of a similar length. Proximal ends 256 of each of the plurality of sections of sheet or film material 246 are attached to end 252 of handle 242 by an adhesive material (eg, adhesive tape). Alternatively, other joining modes (for example a liquid adhesive material) are also useful. During use, the light source 244 in a preferred embodiment is activated by rotating the second end 252 of the handle 242 in relation to the body 248, although other ways of activating the light source 244 (e.g. a separate switch). Once turned on, the light from the light source 244 is directed through the leading edge 254 of the handle 242 over a plurality of sections of sheet or film material 246. The handle of the article according to the present invention can be configured to be held by a user so that the movement of the handle, in turn, imparts movement on the plurality of sections of sheet or film material, much like a tassel. Because the distal ends (see, for example, reference number 259 in Figure 22) of each of the plurality of sections of the sheet or film material are unattached, the sections of the sheet or film material are Free to move in all directions. Therefore, manipulation of the handle results in movement and therefore a perceived change in the optical effect (e.g. color) in a plurality of sections of the sheet or film material by a stationary observer.

Additionally, the handle can be maneuvered by a user to impart a wave-like curve in the intermediate portion (e.g., reference number 258) of at least one of a plurality of sections of the sheet or film material. The sheet or film material is preferably configured such that when it is curved, for each particle of visible bright particles, an optical characteristic such as the color of an intermediate portion changes. Typically, not all of the plurality of sections of the sheet or the film material are curved in the same manner. Therefore, the rapid movement of the handle by a user generally creates, particularly in the dark, a bright and multi-colored effect that visually recalls a twinkle. Each of the plurality of sections of sheet or film material is typically flexible so as to allow bending over an intermediate portion. However, in some embodiments, each of the plurality of sections of the sheet material or film has a certain amount of stiffness (for example, the sections of sheet or film material 246 will preferably be bent, but will not deform upon impact). . With this configuration, the movement of the handle can result in contact between several of a plurality of sections of the sheet or film material, producing an audible sound. When the handle is vigorously shaken, numerous contacts are made by producing a "hiss" sound, which is very reminiscent of burning scintillation. Therefore, novel hand-held novelty articles can be similar in appearance and sound to conventional scintillation. Such a hand-held novelty item does not have the "burn / burn" associated with conventional scintillation. The visual appearance of the plurality of bright particle sections can be altered, for example, by including a translucent filter at the leading edge of the handle (see, for example, the leading edge 254 of the handle 242 in Figure 22). The filter can alter the wavelengths of the light emitted by the light source by varying the color or colors produced by the bright particles. Optionally, the filter is or includes a color shift film or sheet or a film material having bright particles according to the present invention within it and / or on it. In some embodiments according to the present invention (see, for example, Figure 22), the plurality of sections of the sheet or film material are attached directly to one end of the handle. Other forms of attachment are also useful. For example, Figure 22A illustrates an alternative embodiment of the hand-held novelty article, which is similar to a device 240, which is shown in Figure 22. The article 240A includes a handle 242A, a light source 244A , a plurality of sections of sheet or film material 246A, and a tie body 247 for connecting a plurality of sections of sheet or film material 246A to end 252A of handle 242A. The joining body 252A is shown as a band of a color shift film formed integrally with a plurality of sections of sheet or film material 246A, it can be in other suitable shapes such as a conical cover or a curved cover in a manner multiple in the form of a partial dona. With respect to the shape shown, during processing, a sheet of appropriate size can be cut from the sheet or film material, to provide the plurality of sections of sheet or film material 246A. The band 247 can be attached to the end 252A of the handle 242A so that the plurality of sections of sheet or film material 246A extending therefrom, therefore, the plurality of sections of sheet or film material 246A and the connecting body 252A and can therefore be integral. Alternatively, for example, the joining body 252A can be an independently made article, such as a strip of material bonded at ends opposite the end 252A of the handle 242A and a plurality of sections of sheet or film material 246A. Regardless of the exact shape, the joining body 252A connects the plurality of sections of the sheet or film material 246A with the handle 252A while at the same time allowing the light from the light source 244A to interact with a plurality of sections of the material 246A of sheet or film. In this regard, the joining body 252A may be in tubular form, or it may be a solid article configured to allow the passage of light from the light source 244A. Movement can be imparted to the plurality of sections of the sheet or film material 246B using alternative means. With reference to Figure 22A, an exemplary embodiment of a novelty hand-held device is shown, in accordance with the present invention. (240B), which is similar to device 240 of Figure 22, but which uses a mechanism 531 (for example, a motor as shown) to impart movement to sheet or film material 246B. The mechanism 531 is electrically coupled to a source 253B of energy through which the mechanism 533, mechanically coupled to the end 252B. The end 252B is rotatably coupled to the body 248B. Upon operation of the switch mechanism 533, the mechanism 531 can be selectively energized for ratio of the end 252B in relation to the body 248B (indicated by the rotational arrow 534), about a central axis as defined in the body 248B extending longitudinally. The rotation of the end 252B at the desired speed will impart a desired amount of movement to the sheet or film material 246B. In addition, the switch mechanism 533 can be used for selective energization of the light source 244B. Another embodiment of the hand-held novelty article is shown in Figure 24. The hand-held novelty article 260 includes a handle 261, a light source (not shown), attached to the body 262, a first plurality of bands 263, a second plurality of bands 265 and a third plurality of bands 266. As with the previous embodiments, the handle 261 includes an end 269, a body 268 and an end 267. The light source (not shown) is In addition, the first, second and third plurality of bands 263, 265, 266, respectively, are connected to the end 267 of the handle 261 via the link body 262. • Each of the first, second and third plurality of bands 263, 265, 266 are preferably made of a sheet or film material having bright particles accog to the present invention therein. However, the first, second and third plurality of bands 263, 265 and 266 are of varying lengths. Additionally, the first, second and third plurality of bands 263, 265 and 266 can be made, for example, of varying types of matrix materials and / or bright particles, in accordance with the present invention so that, when used, They show a wider variety of colors. In addition to providing variable length webs of the sheet or film material, the hand-held novelty item 260 optionally includes a sound device 264 placed in and / or on the handle 261. The sound device 264 preferably is a configured loudspeaker. to produce a sound such as a siren. Alternatively, the sound device 264 may be or include a radius. The sound device 264 is preferably electrically coupled to a power source (not shown) and further improves the operation of the hand-held novelty article 260. In another embodiment of a hand-held novelty article shown in Fig. 25, article 270, which is similar to article 240 shown in Fig. 22, includes handle 242C, the light source (not shown), fins 271 and a plurality of sections of film sheet material 246C extending from end 252C of handle 242C. The fins 271 are preferably made from a color shift film and extend from the 252C end of the handle 242C. A preferred embodiment includes four fins 271, however, a larger or smaller number may also be used, depending, for example, on the desired effect. The fins 271 are preferably stiffer than the plurality of sheet sections or film materials 246C, so that when the handle 242C is oriented in a vertical position (shown in Figure 25), the fins 271 likewise remain vertical. Conversely, the plurality of sections of sheet or film material 246C are preferably flexible so that they curve downwardly when the handle 242C is positioned vertically. In the vertical position, the fins 271 preferably show a candle-like appearance in response to light from a light source (not shown). Although the plurality of sections of the sheet material or film have been described as flexible bands, other shapes are also useful. For example, with reference to Figure 26, hand-held article 280 novelty has a flower-like appearance. The hand-held article 280 includes a handle 281, a light source 282 and a plurality of sections of sheet or film material 283. The sheet or film material 283 comprises a matrix material (typically a translucent matrix) and bright particles according to the present invention. The handle 281 and the light source 282 preferably function in a manner similar to the handle 242 and the light source 244 of FIG. 22. In this regard, the handle 281 includes an end 284, the body 285 having an outer circumference and a end 286. The plurality of sections of the sheet or film material 283 extend from the end 286 of the handle 281. The end 286 is rotatable relative to the body 285 to control the activation of the light source 282. Alternatively, it may be provided an external switch In Figure 26, a plurality of sections of the sheet or film material 283 are formed to form a flower or similar flower shape. In this regard, each of the plurality of sections of sheet or film material 283 is rigid so that the preferred shape similar to a flower is maintained regardless of handle position 281 or movement. Each of the plurality of sections of the sheet or film material 283 includes a curved surface to improve the visual appearance in response to light from the light source 282 when activated. As such, the shiny particles according to the present invention preferably reflects light from the inside of the flower-like shape and reflects light from an outer surface of the flower-like shape. In an alternative embodiment, the sections of the sheet or film material that do not have bright particles according to the present invention thereon can be interposed with a plurality of sections of sheet or film material 283. Additionally, the hand-held novelty article 280 includes optional indicia 287 (which may be, for example, a federally registered trademark in the US) on the outer circumference of the body 285 of the handle. Alternatively, the signals may be in the form of a trademarked or registered material (as discussed above, for example with respect to Figures 14 to 19). Figures 27A and 27B show another embodiment of a novelty item that can be held in the hands. As with the previous embodiments, hand held article 290 includes a handle 291, a light source (not shown), and a plurality of sections of sheet or film material 292. The sheet or film material 292 comprises a matrix material (typically a translucent matrix material) and bright particles according to the present invention. The handle 291 includes an end 296, a body 293 and an end 294. The light source (not shown) is positioned within the end 294 of the handle 291, which additionally functions as a switch in the preferred embodiment. Therefore, the rotational movement of the end 294 in relation to the body 293 controls the activation of the light source. In addition, a plurality of sections of sheet or film material 292 are attached to end 294 of handle 291. Unlike the plurality of sections of sheet or film material 246 previously described with reference to Figure 22, both ends of each of the plurality of sections of the sheet or film material 292 of FIGS. 27A and 27B are attached to the end 294 of the handle 291. In addition, each of the plurality of sections of the sheet or film material 292 has an increased width. As shown in figures 27A and 27B, each of the plurality of sections of the sheet or film material 292 is curved to form an arch. In a preferred embodiment, each of the plurality of sections of the sheet or film material 292 includes multiple curvatures. In addition, as shown in FIG. 27B, at least one of the plurality of sections of sheet or film material 292 includes optional 295 signals (which may be, for example, a commercially registered trademark of the United States). Alternatively, the signs may be in the form of a trademark or material. recordable (as described above, for example with respect to figures 14 to 19). In another aspect, the plurality of sections of the sheet or film material 292 may be configured to assume a representative form of a trademark (which includes a federally registered trademark) and / or a recordable material. In Fig. 28 another traditional embodiment of a hand-held novelty article according to the present invention is shown. Hand held article 330 includes a handle 332, a light source 334 and a plurality of sections of the sheet or film material 336. The handle 332 includes an end 338, a body 340 and an end 342. The plurality of sections of the sheet or film material 336 are attached to the end 338 of the handle 332. In contrast to the previous embodiments, the light source 334 is connected to the handle 332 near the end 342. In this manner, the light source 334 is connected to the handle 332 away from the end 338 in which a plurality of sections of sheet or film material 336 are joined. The light source 334 is preferably configured to be activated by the power source 344 (for example the battery shown in broken lines). Although the light source is described connected to the handle, it is understood that the light source can be connected directly to the handle, or alternatively it can be connected to the handle by means of a structure or intermediate elements. The handle 332 is configured to transmit light from the light source 334 to the end 338 in which the plurality of sections of sheet or film material 336 are joined. Regardless of the arrangement, the article is configured so that the light source illuminates at least a portion of the bright particles according to the present invention. In this regard, light from the light source 334 may be transmitted, for example, a coating of reflective film visible to the interior of the handle 332. Alternatively, for example, the handle 332 may be of a fiber of light or a tube of light. Additionally, for example, a portion of the handle 332 may include a partially reflective / partially transmissive film that directs part of the light to the plurality of sections of the sheet or film material 336 and allows part of the light to pass through the material of the film. sheet or film so that the handle 332 appears to shine or be brightly colored when the handle 332 appears to be activated. Remarkably, a? A device for transmitting light from the light source 334 to a region adjacent to the plurality of the section of the sheet or film material 336 may be separated from, or may be integral with, the handle 332, or may simply be the handle itself. The components of the hand-held articles, as well as the other items (including toys) described herein, may be made from any of a variety of materials (including those mentioned above). For example, suitable materials may include non-metallic materials (e.g. rigid or non-rigid polymeric materials) or metallic materials. Other suitable materials may also be apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the description of the present invention. Additional details regarding illuminated hand-held novelty items can be found, for example, in the application that has the serial number U.S. 09 / 006,294 of January 13, 1998. Other uses bright particles ("glitter") according to the present invention include products that use the same and that include molding clays or compounds, glue sticks (including melting adhesives) by heat), liquid glue, architectural foams (for example foams for roofing), cosmetics (for example, nail varnish, lipstick, eyeliners, face creams and lotions (which include flushing), jewelry (for example pearls), decorative fountains (for example, having bright particles) scattered in water), kaleidoscopes, artistic sand (for example, bright particles mixed with sand), lures for fishing, roofing material (for example with granules on the upper surface of roofing tiles), art materials (which includes artistic paint), finger paint, crayons (see, for example, US Patent No. 5,383,954 (Craig) for additional details regarding the incorporation of bright particles into crayons), puzzle surfaces, game surfaces, board, wall coverings, carpets (for example those that include conventional carpet fibers) and tape (for example shiny particles can be dispersed inside a n conventional tape material. More specific examples of products using the bright particles according to the present invention include molding clays or compounds such as commercially available under the trade designations "PLAY-DOH" from Tonka Corp. (Playschool), Inc. of Pawtucker, Rl. ). Preferably, the bright particles according to the present invention are pretreated with a surfactant (for example glycerol) and / or a surfactant is added to the molding compound. The surfactant is preferably miscible with water-based molding compounds and is non-toxic. It is considered that the use of a surfactant or the like significantly reduces the tendency of the bright particles to separate from the molding compound during use. Aungue does not wish to be bound by any theory, it is considered that the surfactant decreases the surface energy between the polymeric film and the molding compound, resulting in an increase in adhesion between the molding compound and the shiny particles. Another specific example of a product using bright particles according to the present invention are lightweight adhesives (such as those commercially available under the trade designation "ELMERDs GLUE-ALL" from Borden, Inc. of Columbus, OH), or glue sticks that They melt by heat that they have bright particles scattered randomly in it. Optionally, the product can be provided with adhesives of different colors by tinting or coloring them, for example with pigments. You can sell a piece of equipment, for example, that has 2, 3, 4 or more different inked or colored glues (for example, one type can include three glues of different colors, each of the primary colors (ie red, yellow and blue) ) .

Another specific example of a product using bright particles according to the present invention are decorative laminate or graphic materials. Graphic or decorative laminate materials are used, for example, for signage or vehicle decals. The graphic or decorative laminate materials typically comprise a thin sheet (i.e., 0.025-0.13 mm (1-5 mils)) of plasticized polyvinyl chloride having a layer of acrylic pressure sensitive adhesive on top of it. a main surface. The bright particles according to the present invention can be added to polyvinyl chloride resin before processing the resin into a sheet material. For further details regarding the techniques for making such decorative laminate or graphic materials see, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,605,592 (Paquette et al.). Another specific example of a product using glossy particles according to the present invention is a three-dimensional decorative article useful, for example, as a paperweight, fob for a keychain or emblem. A three-dimensional decorative article can be formed, for example by casting a first thermoformable film, transparent or translucent (preferably transparent) in a desired concave shape. Separately, the bright particles, which include bright particles according to the present invention, are dispersed in a transparent or translucent, flowable polymer composition. The resulting polymer composition (ie, the one with the bright particles dispersed therein) is then poured over the reservoir formed by the concave shape of the first film. The polymer composition then solidifies by curing or cooling (that is, a polymeric composition that melts by heat).

Optionally, a second film or a reflective substrate can be attached to the polymer composition either before or after the solidification thereof. Primers or tie layers can be used to adhere the polymer composition to the first or second films. The decorative article may further comprise an adhesive material on at least a portion of its surface for attachment to a substrate. In addition, with respect to the three-dimensional decorative article, the first film can be formed in any known manner such as extrusion, solvent draining or emptying of an emulsion. Preferably, the film will have adequate elongation and flexibility to be thermoformed into the desired contour. Unoriented films, or films having a low degree of orientation, are preferred because they have less internal stresses and are less likely to experience shrinkage compared to more oriented films, particularly when heated. The first film may be at least partially crosslinked, although the crosslinked films may be limited to concave shapes having smoother (ie, less abrupt) contours. Typically, the first film will vary in thickness from about 12 to about 250 microns, but films outside this range may also be useful. Examples of suitable films include polyvinyl chloride plasticized films, polyolefin films, thermoplastic rubber films, acrylonitrile-butadiene styrene / vinyl laminates and films of ethylene copolymer and methylmethacrylic acid (commercially available under the trade designation "SURLYN" from The DuPont de Nemours and Co.). A suitable polyvinyl chloride film is commercially available, for example, under the trade designation "6669 FILM COAT" from 3M Company, St. Paul, MN. The first film optionally may contain other additives such as antioxidants, UV absorbing substances, UV stabilizers and reinforcing agents, and optionally may be primed to improve adhesion to the polymer composition. Examples of primers include commercially available polyvinyl chloride / polyvinyl acetate compositions, for example, under the trade designations "VAGH" and "VMCH" by Union Carbide and "DESMOLAC 4125" by Mobay Chemical Co. The polymer composition of the decorative article three dimensional may be in any of the polymeric matrix materials described in the foregoing. A preferred polymer composition is a transparent or translucent thermosetting polyurethane. Polyurethanes are the reaction product of one or more polyols with a curative isocyanate, typically in the presence of a catalyst. Polyurethanes are preferred because of their durability, impact resistance, environmental stability as well as their resistance to degradation when exposed to cleaning solvents, gasoline, water and the like. When a polyurethane is used, the bright particles are typically mixed with the polyol component, which is then mixed with a stoichiometric amount of an aliphatic polyisocyanate (e.g., a commercially available aliphatic polyisocyanate, e.g., under the trade designation "DESMODUR N -3300"from Mobay Chemical Co.). In some applications, it is desirable to use a flexible and soft polyurethane characterized by having a Shore D hardness of about 45 to 65 (preferably about 45 to 55). A flexible and soft polyurethane can be formed, for example, by reacting an adduct of aliphatic diisocyanate-polypropylenetriol with a mixture of polyether glycol and medium molecular weight polypropylenetriotols. Other polyurethanes are commercially available, for example, under the trade designations "DESMODUR" and "BAYTEC" by Mobay Chemical Co., "URALITE" by Hexcel Corp., and "CONATHANE" by Conap, Inc. Suitable polyurethanes are also commercially available, for example from Inolex Chemical Co., and Dexter Plastics. In a method for making the three-dimensional decorative article, the first thermoformable film is placed on a mold (preferably a porous mold), heated and then conformed into a concave shape by using pressure or vacuum to extract the film and put it into contact with the mold. The bright particles are dispersed in a polyol, and the resulting dispersion is mixed with a curative isocyanate to form a reactive polyurethane composition. The resulting composition, which preferably has a Brookfield viscosity between about 3000 to 5000 cps for ease of handling, is then poured into the first thermoformed film and cured. The second film can be placed on the polymer composition either before or after the curing of the composition. When the film adheres after curing, an adhesive material (e.g., a pressure sensitive adhesive) can be used to adhere the film to the cured polymer composition. In another embodiment of a three-dimensional decorative article, the second film is placed on the composition before curing and the reactive polyurethane composition is attached to the second film. Preferably, the second film is a reflective film. Suitable reflective films include color shift films and visible reflection films described above, as well as metallized polyester films (ie, coated with aluminum or silver vapor) and flexible films coated with chromium. Alternatively, for example, the second film may be a mirror or a sheet coated with chromium. The resulting decorative article has a unique appearance that results from the reflection and refraction of the light from the reflecting surface of the second film to the highly reflective bright particles, according to the present invention. The three-dimensional decorative article may further include a layer of adhesive material for attaching it to another substrate such as a window, a plate or trophy, a car, a garment or jewelry. Adhesive materials suitable for such use are known in the art and include acrylic pressure sensitive adhesives, silicone pressure sensitive adhesives, improved block copolymer pressure sensitive adhesives for adhesion, epoxy adhesives, silicone adhesives and Similar. Acrylic pressure sensitive adhesives are preferred because of the wide variety of surfaces to which they adhere. Examples of suitable acrylic pressure sensitive adhesives include those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. Re 24,906 (Ulrich), 4,181,752 (Martens et al.), 4,329,384 (Vesley et al.), 4,710,536 (Klingen et al.), 4,415,615 (Esmay et al.), And 5,086,088 (Kitano, et al.). Another specific example of a product using shiny particles according to the present invention are tracks (for example racetracks) for toy cars, such as that available from Mattel, Inc. of El Segundo, CA, under the trade designation " HOT WHEELS "having bright particles according to the present invention therein. It is also within the scope of the present invention to combine the bright particles according to the present invention with conventional bright particles, as well as with the bright particles described in the application having the serial number U.S. No. 09 / 006,291 filed January 13, 1998. The first three examples that follow illustrate exemplary embodiments of the development of exemplary color shift films or visible reflection films for use in the present invention. The particular materials and the amounts thereof mentioned in these examples, as well as other conditions and details should not be considered, unduly, as limitations of this invention. All parts and percentages are by weight, unless otherwise indicated. EXAMPLE 1 The following example illustrates the preparation of a color shift film. A co-extruded film containing 209 layers is made in a sequential flat film production line via a co-extrusion process. This multi-layer polymer film is made from polyethylene naphthalate (PEN) and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA CP82) wherein PEN is the outer layer or the "coating" layer. A block feed method (such as that described in US Pat. No. 3,801,429) is used to generate approximately 209 layers which are coextruded on a water-cooled die wheel and continuo oriented by a conventional sequential length orienter ( LO) and tensor equipment. PEN with an intrinsic viscosity (IV) of 0.56 dl / g (60% by weight of phenol / 40% by weight of dichlorobenzene) is supplied to the block feed by an extruder at a rate of 60.5 kg / h and PMMA is supplied by another extruder at a rate of 63.2 kg / h. These molten streams are directed to the feed block to create the optical layers of PEN and PMMA. The feed block generates 209 alternating layers of PEN and PMMA with the two outer layers of PEN that serve as the protective boundary layers (PBL) through the feed block. The PMMA fusion process equipment is maintained at approximately 249DC; the PEN melting process equipment is maintained at approximately 29? Dc, - and the modules of the coating layer of the feed block and the die are also maintained at approximately 29? Dc. An approximately linear gradient is designed in the thicknesses of the layer for the feed block for each material with a ratio of layers from the thickest to the thinnest of approximately 1.72: 1. This material design r of the ratio of the thickness of the first to the last layers of 1.73: 1 is too large to elaborate the desired bandwidth for the color mirror of this example. In addition, you get a displacement of the blue band on the edge result of the team as designed. To correct these problems, a temperature profile is applied to the power block. The layers selected by the feed block can be made thicker or thinner by heating or cooling the section of the feed block where they are generated. This technique is required to produce an acceptable sudden band edge on the blue side of the reflection band. The portion of the feed block that produces the thinner layers is heated to 304Dc, while the portion that makes the thicker layers is heated to 274ÜC. The intermediate portions are heated between these extreme temperatures. The total effect is a much narrower layer thickness distribution resulting in a narrower spectrum of reflection. After the feed block, a third extruder supplies a 50/50 combination of 0.56 dl / g IV and 0.48 dl / g IV of PEN as coating layers (same thickness on both sides of the optical layer stream), at approximately 37.3 kg / h. By this method, the coating layers are of a lower viscosity than the optical layers, resulting in a stable laminar melt flow of the coextruded layers. Then, the material stream passes through the film die and onto a water-cooled dump wheel using an inlet water temperature of about 7 ° C. A high-voltage fixing system is used to fix the extrudate to the casting wheel. The clamping wire is approximately 0.17 mm thick and a voltage of approximately 5.5 kV is applied. The fixing wire is manually placed by an operator, approximately 3-5 mm from the fabric at a contact point of the casting wheel to obtain a uniform appearance to the emptied fabric. The emptied fabric is oriented longitudinally with a stretch ratio of about 3.8: 1 to about 130 ° C. In the tensioner, the film is preheated prior to drawing at about 138 Dc in about 9 seconds and then stretched in the transverse direction at about 14 [deg.] C. to a drawing ratio of about 5: 1, at a rate of about 60% per second. The finished film has a final thickness of approximately 0.02 mm. The optical spectra for the film of this example are shown in figure 28. The film shows a blue color in the transmission at normal incidence; yellow in the reflection at normal incidence; red in the transmission of oblique angles and a cyan color in oblique angle reflection.

EXAMPLE 2 The following example illustrates the preparation of another color shift film. A multilayer film of approximately 418 layers is made on a sequential flat film processing line by means of a coextrusion process. This multi-layer polymeric film is made with PET and polyester resins (available under the trade designation "ECDEL 9967" from Eastman Chemical Co. of Rochester, NY), where PET has the outer layers or "coating" layers. A block feed method (such as that described in U.S. Patent No. 3,801,429) is used to generate approximately 209 layers with an approximately linear layer thickness gradient from one layer to another through the extrudate. The PET, with an intrinsic viscosity (IV) of 0.56 dl / g, is pumped to the feed blog at a speed or rate of approximately 34.5 kg / h and the polyester resin ("ECDEL 9967") at approximately 41 kg / h. After the feed blog, the same PET extruder supplies PET as protective boundary layers (PBL), on both sides of the extrudate at approximately 6.8 kg / h of total flow.

The material stream is then passed through two asymmetric times multipliers (U.S. Patent Nos. 5,094,788 and 5,094,793) with a multiplier ratio of about 1.40. The multiplier ratio is defined as the thickness of the average layer of the layers produced in the major duct divided by the thickness of the average layer of the layers in the minor duct. This multiplier relationship is chosen so as to leave a spectral separation between the two reflectance bands created by the two sets of 209 layers. Each set of 209 layers has approximately the layer thickness profile generated by the feed block with full thickness scale factors determined by the multiplier and the film extrusion rates. The fusion process equipment for the polyester resin ("ECDEL 9967") is maintained at approximately 25? Dc, the PET fusion process equipment (optical layers) is maintained at approximately 265Dc, and the feed block, the multiplier , the molten stream of the coating layer and the die are maintained at approximately 274 ° C. The feed block used to make the film for this example is designed to have a linear layer thickness distribution with a ratio of 1.3: 1 from the thickest part to the thinnest in the layers, under isothermal conditions. To obtain a smaller ratio for this example, a thermal profile is applied to the power block. The portion of the feed block that produces the thinner layers is heated to 285 Dc, while the portion that produces the thicker layers is heated to 265 c. In this way, the thinner layers become thicker than with the isothermal feed block operation, and the thicker layers become thinner than under the isothermal operation. The intermediate portions are set to follow a linear temperature profile between these two extremes. The total effect is a narrower distribution of layer thicknesses resulting in a narrower reflecting spectrum. Some errors are introduced in the thicknesses of the layers by the multipliers, and they constitute the minor differences of the spectral characteristics of each reflectance band. The speed of the casting wheel is adjusted for precise control of the final thickness of the film, and therefore of the final color. After the multiplier, thick symmetrical PBL (coating layers) are added at approximately 28 kg / h which is fed from a third extruder. Then, the stream of material is passed through a film die onto a water-cooled casting wheel. The water inlet temperature in the drain wheel is approximately 7ºC. Used a high-voltage fixing system to fix the extrudate to the casting wheel. The fixing wire is approximately 0.17 mm thick and a voltage of approximately 5.5 kV is applied. The fixing wire is manually placed by an operator approximately 3-5 mm from the fabric at the contact point of the casting wheel to obtain a uniform appearance for the draining cloth. The draining cloth is continuously oriented by a conventional sequential length guide (LO) and tensioning equipment. The fabric is oriented longitudinally at a draw ratio of about 3.3 to about 10 ° C. The film is preheated to about 10 ° C in about 22 seconds on the tensioner and stretched in the transverse direction at a draw ratio of about 3.5 at a speed of about 20% per second. The finished film has a final thickness of approximately 0.05 mm. Figure 29 shows the optical spectra for the film of this example. The film shows a green color in the transmission at normal incidence; Magenta in the reflection at normal incidence; magenta in the transmission at oblique angles; and green in the reflection at oblique angles. It should be noted that many different colors can be produced, for example, by modifying one or more of the parameters of the procedures described in Examples 1-2. Thus, for example, within certain limitations, it can be adjusted at the speed of the casting wheel to result in a relative thickening or thinning of the optical layers within the extruded fabric. This results in a shift of the reflectance band to a different wavelength, which changes to the color of the resulting film at a given angle of incidence.

EXAMPLE 3 A coextruded film containing 601 layers is made from a sequential flat film processing line via a co-extrusion process. It is supplied by an extruder A polyethylene naphthalate (PEN) with an intrinsic viscosity of 0.57 dl / g (60% by weight of phenol / 40% by weight of dichlorobenzene) at a rate of 51.7 kg (114 pounds) per hour with 29 kg (64 pounds). per hour that advance to the feed block, and the rest advances to the coating layers described below. PMMA (CP-82 from ICI of Americas) is supplied by extruder B at a rate of 27.7 kg (61 pounds) per hour where the whole is directed to the feed block. The PEN is located on the cover layers of the feed block. The feed block method is used to generate 151 layers using the feed block such as that described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,801,429, thereafter, the feed block coextrudes two symmetrical coatings using a metering device in extruder C of approximately 13.6 kg (30 pounds) per hour of the same type of PEN supplied by extruder A. This extrudate passes through two multipliers. which produce an extruded of approximately 601 layers. The U.S. patent No. 3,565,985 describes similar coextrusion multipliers. The extrudate passes through the other device that co-extrudes coating layers at a total regimen of 22.7 kg (50 pounds) per hour of PEN from extruder A. The fabric is oriented longitudinally at a draw ratio of about 3.2 with a temperature of network of approximately 138Dc (280ÜF). The film is subsequently preheated to about 150 ° F (350 ° F) in about 38 seconds and extracted in the transverse direction at a draw ratio of about 4.5 at a rate of about 11% per second. The film is then thermoset to 227-Uc (440ÜF) without being allowed to relax. The thickness of the finished film is approximately 0.076 mm (3 mils). The following examples illustrate the incorporation of "glitter" particles according to the present invention into molded compounds.

EXAMPLE A A visible reflection film of 0.051 mm (2 thousandths of an inch) is converted by Glitterex Corporation, Belleville, NJ in shiny particles with a hexagonal shape of 0.38 mm (15 mils). Approximately 0.6 grams of glycerol ACS grade (C3Hs03) is added (commercially available from EM Science, Gibbstown, NJ) to approximately 2.4 grams of bright particles.

The glycerol is mixed with the shiny particles using a metal spatula until the surface of the shiny particles is coated with glycerol and the mixture has a uniform appearance. Subsequently, approximately 66 grams of an orange molding compound (commercially available under the trade designation "PLAY-DOH" from Tonka Corp. (Playschool), Inc. of Pawtucket, Rl) are added to a mixture of bright particles. / glycerol. The molding compound, the shiny particles and the glycerol are then fixed together using a metal spatula to form a mixture that has a uniform appearance.

The resulting molding compound is placed on a sheet of white paper and handled / worked by hand (i.e., stretched and twisted) to simulate the conditions of use. The paper serves to collect and provide a contrasting background of any bright particles that detach from the molding compound during this test. It is observed that the bright particles remain in the molding compound and that some bright particles are collected on the white paper. Various modifications and alterations of this invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of this invention, and it should be understood that this invention is not unduly limited to the illustrative embodiments set forth herein. It is noted that in relation to this date, the best method known to the applicant to carry out the aforementioned invention, is the conventional one for the manufacture of the objects or products to which it refers.

Claims (47)

CLAIMS Having described the invention as above, the content of the following claims is claimed as property:

1. glossy particles ( "glitter") comprising a film comprising a plurality of alternating layers of at least first and second polymeric materials, wherein at least one of the first and second polymeric materials is birefringent, and wherein the difference in refractive indices of the first and second polymeric materials for polarized visible light along axes in mutually orthogonal plane of the film is at least 0.05, and wherein the difference in refractive indices of the first and second polymeric materials for polarized visible light along a third axis normal to the plane of the film is less than about 0.05.

2. The bright particles, according to claim 1, characterized in that at least a portion of the bright particles comprise a film having particle sizes less than about 10 mm.

3. The bright particles, according to claim 1, characterized in that the bright particles are constituted by a film having particle size in the range of about 50 microns to about 3 mm.

4. The glitter particles in accordance with claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the bright particles consist of a film having a shape selected from the group consisting of a circle, a square, a rectangle, a triangle , a rhombus, a star, an alphanumeric sign, and mixtures thereof.

5. The bright particles, according to claim 1, characterized in that at least a portion of the bright particles are constituted by a film including irregularly shaped particles.

6. The bright particles, according to claim 1, characterized in that at least a portion of the bright particles are constituted by a film including an abrasion resistant coating.

7. The bright particles, according to claim 1, characterized in that at least a portion of the bright particles are constituted by a film including an antistatic coating.

8. The bright particles, according to claim 1, characterized in that at least a portion of the bright particles are constituted by a film that includes a coating that absorbs ultraviolet light.

9. The gloss particles, according to claim 1, characterized in that at least a portion of the gloss particles are constituted by a film that includes an adhesive material.

10. The bright particles, according to claim 1, characterized in that the bright particles are constituted by a film having particle sizes of less than 3 mm.

11. The bright particles, according to claim 1, characterized in that the bright particles are constituted by a film having particle sizes in the range of about 50 microns to about 3 mm.

12. The bright particles, according to claim 1, characterized in that the bright particles are constituted of a loose film.

13. The bright particles, according to claim 1, characterized in that the film has a thickness of less than about 125 microns.

14. The bright particles, according to claim 1, characterized in that the film has a thickness in the range of about 15 microns to about 50 microns.

15. An article, characterized in that it comprises a substrate having bright particles attached to a surface of the substrate, the bright particles comprise a film comprising a plurality of alternating layers of at least one first and second polymeric materials, wherein at least one of the first and second polymeric materials is birefringent, and wherein the difference in the refractive indexes of the first and second polymeric materials for polarized visible light along axes in the mutually orthogonal plane of the film is at least 0.05, and wherein the difference in the refractive indices of the first and second polymeric materials for visible light polarized along the third axis normal to the plane of the film is less than about 0.05.

16. The article according to claim 15, characterized in that at least a portion of the bright particles are constituted by a film having particle sizes less than 10 mm.

17. The article according to claim 16, characterized in that at least a portion of the shiny particles are randomly oriented on the surface of the substrate.

18. A composite article, characterized in that it comprises bright particles dispersed within a translucent matrix material, the glossy particles comprise a film comprising a plurality of alternating layers of at least one first and second polymeric materials, wherein at least one of the first and second polymeric materials is birefringent, and wherein the difference in the refractive indices of the first and second polymeric materials for the polarized light visible along both axes in the mutually orthogonal plane of the film is at least 0.05, and wherein the difference in the refractive indices of the first and second polymeric materials for polarized light visible along a third axis normal to the plane of the film is less than about 0.05.

19. The composite article, according to claim 18, characterized in that at least a portion of the bright particles comprising the film have particle sizes less than 10 mm.

20. The composite article, according to claim 19, characterized in that the matrix is transparent.

21. The composite article, according to claim 19, characterized in that the matrix material comprises at least one cured polymer that is selected from the group consisting of acrylics, polyurethanes and vinyls.

22. The composite article, according to claim 18, characterized in that it also comprises a pigment.

23. The composite article, according to claim 18, characterized in that the bright particles are not evenly distributed through the matrix material.

24. A composite article, characterized in that it comprises bright particles dispersed within a matrix material, the glossy particles comprise a film comprising a plurality of alternating layers of at least one first and second polymeric materials, wherein at least one of the first and second second polymeric materials is birefringent, and wherein the difference in the refractive indices of the first and second polymeric materials for the polarized light visible along both axes in the mutually orthogonal plane in the film is at least 0.05, and in wherein the difference in the refractive indices of the first and second polymeric materials for the polarized light visible along a third axis normal to the plane of the film, is less than about 0.05, and wherein at least a portion of the particles Brightness comprising the film is observable by an observer of the article.

25. A dispersion, characterized in that it comprises a liquid medium and bright particles, the bright particles comprise a film comprising a plurality of alternating layers of at least one first and second polymeric materials, wherein at least one of the first or second polymeric materials is birefringent, and wherein the difference in the refractive indices of the first and second polymeric materials for the polarized light visible along both axes in the mutually orthogonal plane of the film, is at least 0.05, and where the difference in the refractive indices of the first and second polymeric materials for polarized light visible along a third axis normal to the plane of the film, it is less than about 0.05.

26. A dispersible combination, characterized porgue comprises a liquid medium and bright particles, the bright particles comprise a film comprising a plurality of alternating layers of at least one first and second polymeric materials, wherein at least one of the first or second polymeric materials is birefringent, and wherein the difference in the refractive indexes of the first and second polymeric materials for the polarized light visible along both axes in the mutually orthogonal plane of the film, is at least 0.05, and wherein the difference in the refractive indices of the first and second polymeric materials for the polarized light visible along a third axis normal to the plane of the film is less than about 0.05.

27. The dispersion according to claim 26, characterized in that at least a portion of the bright particles are constituted by a film having particle sizes smaller than 10 mm.

28. The dispersion according to claim 27, characterized in that it also comprises a binder precursor material.

29. The dispersion according to claim 28, characterized in that it is a varnish for the nails.

30. The dispersion according to claim 28, characterized in that it is a paint.

31. The dispersion according to claim 27, characterized in that it also comprises a curable binder material.

32. The dispersion according to claim 27, characterized in that the liquid medium includes water.

33. A molding compound, characterized by glass, comprises bright particles dispersed therein, the bright particles comprising a film comprising a plurality of alternating layers of at least one first and second polymeric materials, wherein at least one of the first or second materials polymeric is birefringent, and wherein the difference in the refractive indices of the first and second polymeric materials for polarized light visible along both axes in the mutually orthogonal plane of the film is at least 0.05, and wherein the difference in the refractive indices of the first and second polymeric materials for polarized light visible along a third axis normal to the plane of the film, is less than about 0.05.

34. An injection moldable composition, characterized by comprising bright particles dispersed within an injection moldable polymer material, wherein the bright particles comprise a film comprising a plurality of alternating layers of at least one first and second polymeric materials, wherein at least one of the first or second polymeric materials is birefringent, and wherein the difference in the refractive indices of the first and second polymeric materials for the polarized light visible along both axes in the mutually orthogonal plane of the film is at least 0.05, and wherein the difference in the refractive indices of the first and second polymeric materials for polarized light visible along a third axis normal to the plane of the film, is less than about 0.05.

35. The injection moldable composition according to claim 34, characterized by the polymer material is in the form of granules.

36. A composition, characterized by comprising: a substrate; a matrix placed on the substrate; and a plurality of bright particles placed in the matrix, wherein the bright particles comprise a film comprising a plurality of alternating layers of at least one first and second polymeric materials, wherein at least one of the first or second polymeric materials is birefringent, and wherein the difference in the refractive indices of the first and second polymeric materials for polarized light visible along an axis in the mutually orthogonal plane of the film is at least 0.05, and wherein the difference in the refractive indices of the first and second polymeric materials for polarized light visible along a third axis normal to the plane of the film, is less than about 0.05.

37. A cosmetic composition, characterized in that it comprises the bright particles according to claim 1, the cosmetic composition is adapted for application to the hair or the skin.

38. The cosmetic composition, according to claim 37, characterized in that the cosmetic composition is a powder adapted for application to the hair or skin.

39. The cosmetic composition, according to claim 37, characterized in that the cosmetic composition is a liquid adapted for application to hair or skin.

40. The cosmetic composition, according to claim 37, characterized in that the cosmetic composition is a cream adapted for application to hair or skin.

41. The cosmetic composition, according to claim 37, characterized in that the cosmetic composition is a semi-solid adapted for application to the hair or skin.

42. The cosmetic composition, according to claim 37, characterized in that the cosmetic composition is a gel adapted for application to hair or skin.

43. A cosmetic composition, characterized in that it comprises the bright particles according to claim 1, the cosmetic composition is selected from the group consisting of hair spray, hair gel, hair mousse, lipstick, lip gloss , facial powder, liquid cosmetic base, body paint, body powder, nail varnish, eye shadow, eyeliner, mask, cosmetics that can be applied to the teeth, wax for the whiskers, blush and massage oil.

44. A topical medicament composition, characterized in that it comprises the bright particles according to claim 1, the topical medicament composition is adapted for application to the hair or skin.

45. The topical drug composition, according to claim 44, characterized in that the composition comprises an antipluritic medicament.

46. The topical drug composition, according to claim 44, characterized in that the composition comprises a topical medicament for the relief of pain.

47. The composition, characterized in that it comprises the bright particles according to claim 1, the composition is adapted for application to the hair or the skin, and the composition is a sunscreen composition comprising at least one component that absorbs UV radiation.