Method for manufacturing plastic products, equipment for carrying out the method, and plastic products.

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a plastic article (1), the method comprising the following steps, which are performed in particular in the following order: a) providing at least one film (10), the film comprising a carrier film and at least one decorative layer; b) forming at least one first region (21) and at least one second region (22) in a plane formed by the at least one film (10), particularly by the decorative layer, by means of a laser, the at least one second region (22) having a higher transmittance than the at least one first region (21); c) disposing at least one paint layer (12) in the at least one second region (22) by means of digital printing; d) subjecting the at least one film (10), particularly the decorative layer and / or the at least one paint layer (12) to age-curing, particularly simultaneous age-curing; e) disposing the at least one film (10), particularly the decorative layer, on a substrate (11); f) obtaining a plastic article (1) comprising the at least one first region (21) and the at least one second region (22). The present invention also relates to a plastic article (1) comprising at least one decorative film and a substrate, the plastic article having at least one first region (21) and at least one second region (22) in a plane formed by the decorative film and having at least one paint layer (12) disposed in at least one second region (22), and to an apparatus for carrying out the above method comprising at least one laser and at least one digital printhead.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing plastic articles, an apparatus for carrying out the method, and a plastic article. Background Technology

[0002] Decorative films are often used to decorate surfaces, for example, by applying them to plastic articles using in-molding methods. These surfaces should be visually appealing and also contain decorative elements such as symbols or text.

[0003] These decorative elements are typically created on a decorative film using printing techniques. However, this presents several drawbacks. The positioning and resolution of the decorative elements are limited by the printing method used. If small-batch production is required, especially of plastic products decorated with personalized decorative films or corresponding decorated plastic products, this is associated with high time and logistical costs, and therefore also high expenses, as printing tools, such as printing plates, must be provided and set up for each personalized decorative film accordingly. Alternatively, decorative elements, such as symbols or text, can be created in the decorative film using laser engraving, but these elements are limited in their design possibilities, such as color.

[0004] DE 20 2018 123473A1 relates to a decorative film, a transfer film, the application of said transfer film, a method for manufacturing a transfer film, a method for decorating a plastic molded part, and a plastic molded part.

[0005] EP 3 815 838 A1 discloses a method for manufacturing transparent vehicle parts.

[0006] EP 2 006 119 A2 relates to a method for manufacturing plastic molded articles with labels or similar markings from an undeformed plastic film. It also relates to a plastic molded article formed by deforming a plastic film having at least one colored layer and / or covering layer.

[0007] DE 20 2019 106340 U1 relates to a plastic component that is at least partially metallized, has translucent symbols, and is particularly intended for use in motor vehicles. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The object of the present invention is to provide an improved method for manufacturing, in particular, translucent plastic articles, an improved apparatus for carrying out the method, and an improved, in particular, translucent plastic article.

[0009] This task is solved by means of a method comprising the following steps, which are performed in particular in the following order:

[0010] a) providing at least one membrane, said membrane comprising a carrier membrane and at least one decorative layer;

[0011] b) Using a laser, at least one first region and at least one second region are formed in a plane formed by the at least one film, especially by a decorative layer, wherein the at least one second region has a higher transmittance than the at least one first region;

[0012] c) Applying at least one paint layer to the at least one second region using digital printing;

[0013] d) Age-curing the at least one film, especially the decorative layer and / or the at least one paint layer, especially simultaneously age-curing it;

[0014] e) The at least one film, especially a decorative layer, is disposed on the substrate;

[0015] f) Obtain a plastic article comprising at least one first region and at least one second region.

[0016] The term "region" here is specifically understood to mean a surface defined as a layer, film, plane, or sublayer, which is occupied when viewed perpendicularly to a plane formed by the film, particularly by the at least one decorative layer, varnish layer, and / or substrate. Thus, for example, the at least one substrate has at least one first region and at least one second region, each of the two or more regions occupying a defined surface when viewed perpendicularly to a plane formed by the substrate, particularly in all layers disposed above and / or below the substrate.

[0017] The terms "below" and / or "above" are here understood in particular to refer to the arrangement of one layer relative to another when viewed from the observation direction. Therefore, it is preferable that the terms "below" and / or "above" form a reference system. Preferably, the observation direction is chosen such that the film and / or layer forming the visible side of the plastic article is positioned above other films and / or layers.

[0018] This invention enables advantageous combinations of transfer paint methods, particularly thermoforming methods and / or in-mold decoration (IMD) methods and / or lamination methods, particularly in-mold labeling (IML) methods, insert molding methods and / or printed die design (PMD) methods with laser methods and digital printing methods.

[0019] The advantage of transfer coating technology is that the total thickness of the decorative layer can be significantly thinner compared to other decorative methods, such as painting or direct screen printing. Therefore, when the decorative layer is removed using a laser, a lower height difference is created between the decorative layer and the area where the decorative layer has been removed.

[0020] This allows for significantly simpler, more material-efficient, and waste-reducing stamping of the selected area. Therefore, this combination can significantly improve the CO2 balance and thus reduce energy costs.

[0021] Furthermore, the direct combination of laser technology and digital printing methods provides a highly flexible and variable manufacturing platform. Since both technologies are CNC-controlled, design variations in the second region, such as shape, position, and color, can be integrated in a personalized manner within the method. Therefore, an entire color spectrum achievable in digital printing can also be used in this method. Thus, multi-color regions are also conceivable, for example.

[0022] Furthermore, the present invention advantageously allows for the formation of a 3D contour of a decorative layer preferably disposed on a substrate using molding techniques such as vacuum deep drawing or high-pressure forming. In particular, laser processing combined with digital printing can be performed after deformation, further enhancing flexibility and highlighting the method according to the invention as distinct from pure transfer paint methods.

[0023] Currently, a trend of varying product design schemes has been observed in many industrial sectors. Therefore, it is possible that a decoration should be designed in different languages ​​or colors in different countries. This invention can accommodate this trend and manufacture decorations as needed. It can even achieve personalized batch production of 1 unit.

[0024] This further reduces delivery times, while also enabling greater flexibility in terms of the depth and breadth of product demand. Furthermore, it significantly reduces logistical work and costs, as variations can be produced as needed during the manufacturing process, eliminating the need for inventory management. In other words, end users can decide, for example, how the washing machine panel should be designed and can freely choose the colors of symbols introduced into the decorative layer.

[0025] It has proven advantageous that the at least one film, particularly the decorative layer, provided in step a) is preferably provided or designed as a transfer film (particularly comprising a carrier film and a transfer layer peelable from the carrier film) or as a laminate. In other words, the carrier film can be peeled off during the method, particularly before, during, or after step e).

[0026] Preferably, the at least one film, especially the decorative layer, is a layer having components, especially adhesives, selected individually or in combination from: monomers, oligomers, polymers, copolymers, preferably including, individually or in combination from: polymethyl methacrylate, polyester, polyacrylate, polycarbonate, polyamide, polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), phenol, polymers containing isocyanate groups, polymers containing epoxy groups, polymers containing melamine, polymers containing hydroxyl groups, and more preferably including polyurethane and / or PVC.

[0027] To further achieve the advantageous printability of the decorative layer, the decorative layer particularly has a receiving layer having at least one water-dispersible polymer, each independently selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, polyacrylate, polymethacrylate, polyester, copolymers thereof, and mixtures thereof, preferably selected from polyurethane, polyurethane / polyacrylate copolymer, polyacrylate and / or polymethacrylate, polyester, and mixtures thereof, wherein the at least one water-dispersible polymer is preferably a polyurethane-containing polymer, preferably selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, polyurethane / poly(meth)acrylate copolymer, and mixtures thereof.

[0028] To further achieve sufficiently high resistance of the decorative layer to chemical and / or physical influences, the decorative layer has at least one protective layer, which is made particularly based on at least one UV-crosslinkable and / or chemically crosslinkable polymer. For this purpose, the at least one protective layer may also have at least one chemically crosslinkable polymer, which is further preferably selected from the group consisting of polymers containing isocyanate groups, melamine-containing polymers, hydroxyl-containing polymers, and mixtures thereof. The at least one protective layer preferably has at least one chemically crosslinkable polymer combination comprising polymers and / or copolymers having at least one, preferably two or more isocyanate groups, and at least one polymer and / or copolymer having at least one, preferably two or more hydroxyl groups, and / or at least one melamine resin and at least one polymer and / or copolymer having at least one, preferably two or more hydroxyl groups.

[0029] Furthermore, the at least one UV-crosslinkable polymer of the at least one protective layer and / or the at least one receiving layer may also have at least one chemically crosslinkable functional group, which is preferably selected from the group consisting of hydroxyl groups, isocyanate groups, melamine groups, epoxy resin groups, and combinations thereof.

[0030] Preferably, the at least one UV-crosslinkable polymer also has at least one hydroxyl group.

[0031] Suitable UV-crosslinkable hydroxyl-containing polymers are known in the art and include, for example, at least one diacrylate monomer, aliphatic polyether diacrylate, aliphatic polyester diacrylate, aromatic polyether diacrylate, aromatic ether diacrylate, polyester diacrylate, epoxy diacrylate, acrylate diacrylate, polyacrylate monomer, aliphatic polyether ethylene polyacrylate, aliphatic polyether ether ketone polyacrylate, aromatic polyether alcohol ketone polyacrylate, aromatic polyester urethane polyacrylate, polyester polyacrylate, polyether polyacrylate, epoxy polyacrylate, acrylate-acrylate polyacrylate, or mixtures thereof, and / or at least one hydroxyl monoacrylate, hydroxyl diacrylate, hydroxyl polyacrylate, hydroxyl-functionalized aliphatic polyether sulfone monoacrylate, hydroxyl-functionalized aliphatic polyether ether monoacrylate, hydroxyl-functionalized aromatic polyether ether monoacrylate, hydroxyl-functionalized aromatic polyether ether monoacrylate. Hydroxyl-functionalized polyester monoacrylate, hydroxyl-functionalized polyether monoacrylate, hydroxyl-functionalized epoxy monoacrylate, hydroxyl-functionalized acryloylated acrylate monoacrylate, hydroxyl-functionalized aliphatic polyether deacetylated product, hydroxyl-functionalized aliphatic polyester deacetylated product, hydroxyl-functionalized aromatic polyether deformylated product, hydroxyl-functionalized aromatic polyester depropionylated product, hydroxyl-functionalized polyester diacrylate, hydroxyl-functionalized polyether diacrylate, hydroxyl-functionalized epoxy diacrylate, acrylic hydroxyl-functionalized acrylate diacrylate, aliphatic polyether urethane-polyacrylate, aliphatic polyether polyurethane-polyacrylate, hydroxyl-functionalized aromatic polyether urethane polyacrylate, hydroxyl-functionalized aromatic polyester urethane polyacrylate, hydroxyl-functionalized polyester polyacrylate, hydroxyl-functionalized polyether polyacrylate, hydroxyl-functionalized epoxy polyacrylate, and hydroxyl-functionalized acrylate or mixtures thereof.

[0032] As a melamine resin, it is particularly suitable that it can be obtained by reacting melamine with aldehydes and can be partially or completely modified if necessary.

[0033] Formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, isobutyraldehyde, and acetaldehyde are particularly suitable as aldehydes.

[0034] Melamine-formaldehyde resin is preferably a reaction product of melamine and an aldehyde, such as the aforementioned aldehydes, especially formaldehyde. The obtained hydroxymethyl groups are preferably modified by etherification with a monohydric alcohol or a polyhydric alcohol.

[0035] Furthermore, the at least one protective layer may have a precured system and / or a hybrid system. In particular, the at least one protective layer may have at least one UV-curable component, which includes a UV-curable monomer and / or a UV-curable oligomer or a mixture thereof, and also has at least one adhesive selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, polyacrylate, polymethyl methacrylate, polyester resin, polycarbonate, phenolic resin, epoxy resin, polyurea, melamine resin, preferably polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyester, polycarbonate (PC), and mixtures thereof.

[0036] Furthermore, the at least one protective layer preferably includes at least one polyisocyanate. The term "polyisocyanate" preferably describes an organic compound having two or more isocyanate groups, including triisocyanates and isocyanates with higher functionality. In some embodiments, the at least one polyisocyanate is selected from the group consisting of: diisocyanate monomers, diisocyanate oligomers, diisocyanate-terminated prepolymers, diisocyanate-terminated polymers, polyisocyanate monomers, polyisocyanate oligomers, polyisocyanate-terminated prepolymers, polyisocyanate-terminated polymers, polyisocyanate-terminated polymers, and mixtures thereof.

[0037] Further preferably, the at least one polyisocyanate includes or includes at least one component containing a diisocyanate, which preferably includes at least one polyurethane oligomer containing a diisocyanate, a polyurea oligomer containing a diisocyanate, a prepolymer thereof, a polymer thereof, or a mixture thereof.

[0038] In some embodiments, the at least one polyisocyanate comprises or includes at least one component containing a diisocyanate, preferably selected from hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI), isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI), diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI), xylene diisocyanate (TDI), diphenyl diisocyanate, naphthalene diisocyanate, diphenylsulfonyl diisocyanate, ethylene diisocyanate, propylene diisocyanate, dimers of these diisocyanates, trimers of these diisocyanates, triphenylmethyl isocyanate, polyphenylmethylbenzene polyisocyanate (polymeric MDI), and mixtures thereof.

[0039] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the at least one film, especially the decorative layer, has multiple layers, particularly at least one or more of the following layers, each selected individually or in combination from: at least one colored paint layer, at least one metal layer, at least one adhesive layer, at least one adhesion promoter layer, at least one barrier layer, at least one acceptor layer, at least one protective paint layer, at least one release layer, at least one replication layer, and at least one laser protective paint layer.

[0040] A further advantage is that the at least one decorative layer forms a transfer layer and can be separated from the carrier film.

[0041] This design further enhances the possibilities for personalization, aesthetic appeal, and / or application. The film can also have a multi-layered farblack system, in which one or more layers are ablated by laser, thus making the underlying layers visible. This allows for personalized designs.

[0042] Preferably, the at least one film, especially the decorative layer, has a layer thickness selected from the range of 0.1 μm to 50 μm, preferably 0.5 μm to 35 μm, and preferably 1 μm to 5 μm.

[0043] Furthermore, the at least one film, particularly the decorative layer, may have a metallized portion, which in particular has a layer thickness of 1 nm to 20 μm, preferably 5 nm to 15 μm. Preferably, the metallized portion is made of a metal and / or a combination of metals and / or an alloy, wherein the metal and / or the combination of metals and / or the alloy are selected individually or in combination from: aluminum, copper, cobalt, gold, indium, iron, chromium, nickel, silver, platinum, palladium, and titanium.

[0044] In step e), the at least one film, particularly the decorative layer, can be disposed on the entire surface of the substrate. As a result, the optical properties of the finished product are independent of the optical properties of the substrate, thus increasing the design possibilities of the finished product.

[0045] Alternatively, in step e), the at least one film, particularly the decorative layer, may be disposed only partially on the substrate, especially in the viewing direction facing the decorative layer on the side of the substrate, where the substrate is visible to the observer. For example, the decorative layer may not be disposed in the edge or central regions of the substrate. This is advantageous if these areas are not visible in the finished product and / or if it is desired that the optical properties of the substrate remain visible. Other layers or stacks may also be disposed on the substrate in the areas where no decorative layer is disposed. It is also possible that in the areas where no decorative layer is disposed, no layer is disposed on the substrate, i.e., the substrate is uncoated in these areas.

[0046] It is particularly advantageous that the at least one film, especially the decorative layer, is configured to be opaque and / or that the at least one film, especially the decorative layer, has a transmittance of up to 50%, preferably up to 20%, and more preferably up to 5% for electromagnetic waves, especially in the wavelength range of 380 nm to 780 nm.

[0047] This results in the at least one film, particularly the decorative layer, producing an optically dark impression, especially considering possible backlighting, which provides a dark background. Consequently, a particularly high contrast between the backlighting and the background can be achieved, and the backlighting can be fully perceived even under low backlighting intensity.

[0048] Transmittance is preferably determined, especially using a spectrophotometer (such as the U-2000 model from Hitachi, Japan), within the wavelength range of 380 nm to 780 nm.

[0049] In step e), the at least one film, especially the decorative layer, can be set by means of a transfer paint method, especially a hot stamping method and / or an IMD method and / or by means of a lamination method, especially an IML method, an insert molding method and / or a PMD method.

[0050] Furthermore, the at least one membrane, especially the decorative layer, can be disposed on the substrate such that the decorative layer faces the observer.

[0051] The at least one film, especially the decorative layer, can also be disposed on the side of the substrate away from the observer. Thus, the substrate can protect the decorative layer from external, especially physical and / or chemical, influences and / or loads.

[0052] Therefore, the at least one film, especially the decorative layer, can be disposed below and / or above the substrate. Preferably, the at least one film, especially the decorative layer, is disposed on the substrate such that the film is fixedly connected to the substrate.

[0053] The term "fixed connection" is preferably understood herein as a permanent connection between two elements such that they cannot be mechanically separated without damaging at least one of the elements.

[0054] In step b), the film, especially the decorative layer, is irradiated with a laser to form at least one first region and at least one second region, the at least one second region having higher transmittance. It is particularly advantageous that, in step b), the at least one film, especially the decorative layer, is removed, preferably completely removed, from the at least one second region.

[0055] The at least one second region can also be formed by removing at least one of the layers of the decorative layer. In particular, the at least one second region can be formed such that at least one layer of the decorative layer, preferably at least one colored paint layer, is not removed, preferably not completely removed, in the at least one second region. Therefore, at least one colored paint layer can be provided in the at least one second region, especially after step b).

[0056] "Layer removal" is understood herein to mean, in particular, the partial and / or complete removal of a layer by means of laser cutting and / or laser ablation. If, for example, a layer is removed in a region, the corresponding layer is partially and / or completely removed in that region. Removal is preferably performed here based on laser cutting and / or laser ablation.

[0057] "Partial removal" is preferably understood here as a layer that has been partially removed being altered or damaged in such a way that it no longer meets its predetermined characteristics. For example, a partially removed protective coating layer no longer meets its predetermined characteristics, namely, protecting the underlying layer from chemical, physical, and / or mechanical environmental influences.

[0058] "Complete removal" is preferably understood herein to mean that the completely removed layer was etched and / or ablated and / or burned off and / or evaporated without residue in the corresponding area. If, for example, the at least one decorative layer is completely removed in the at least one second area, especially by means of laser cutting and / or laser ablation, then the at least one decorative layer is etched without residue in the at least one second area.

[0059] Advantageously, after step f), the transmittance difference between the at least one first region and the at least one second region of the plastic article is preferably at least 5%, preferably at least 10%, particularly preferably at least 25%, especially in the wavelength range of 380 nm to 780 nm. Preferably, the at least one second region in the plastic article has a higher transmittance than the at least one first region. This ensures sufficient contrast in the transmitted light, resulting in a clear and easily identifiable decoration.

[0060] In particular, at least one second area is designed in the form of symbols, geometric shapes, patterns, alphanumeric characters, and / or logos, and / or includes them. These forms may also be combined with abstract graphic design elements. The design of the at least one second area may be purely decorative, but preferably it may also be functional and, for example, a display or operating element of a marking device, such as a status display, operating surface, or the like.

[0061] Further preferably, when viewed perpendicularly to the at least one film, especially the decorative layer, the at least one second region has a linewidth of at least 50 μm, preferably at least 100 μm and / or when viewed perpendicularly to the at least one film, especially the decorative layer, the at least one second region has a linewidth of at most 2 mm, preferably at most 1 mm, and further preferably at most 0.5 mm.

[0062] The minimum linewidth is determined by the resolving power and perceptual ability of the human eye. Even extremely fine lines can be seen through possible backlighting or in transmitted light.

[0063] Advantageously, in step c), the at least one paint layer is disposed in contact with the at least one film, especially the decorative layer, on the side of the substrate away from the film, especially the decorative layer. For example, the at least one paint layer may be disposed in an area of ​​the film, especially the decorative layer, in which the film has been removed, especially completely removed, by means of laser irradiation in step b).

[0064] In the at least one second region, particularly when at least one layer of the decorative layer is removed in the at least one second region and / or at least one layer of the decorative layer, preferably at least one colored paint layer, is not removed, preferably not completely removed, the paint layer partially or completely overlaps with at least one layer of the decorative layer, preferably at least one colored paint layer.

[0065] In other words, the at least one paint layer may be disposed above and / or below the substrate, preferably on one of the surfaces of the substrate.

[0066] Placing the at least one paint layer above the substrate has the particular advantage of making the optical properties of the paint appear exceptionally bright. Placing the at least one paint layer below the substrate, for example, makes it easier to print multiple side-by-side second areas compared to placing it above the substrate. That is, lower tolerances can be maintained here because the second areas act as optical masks when viewed from the plane formed by the substrate, thus masking, i.e., optically obscuring, the visible edges of the at least one paint layer. This also reduces the amount of scrap.

[0067] Preferably, the at least one paint layer has a component that can be age-cured by applying thermal radiation and / or high-energy radiation, preferably UV radiation, especially radiation with wavelengths in the range of 200 nm to 280 nm. Suitably, the at least one paint layer has a component, especially an adhesive, selected alone or in combination from: polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polymethyl methacrylate, polyester, polyacrylate, polycarbonate, polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyamide, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS), phenol, polymers containing isocyanate groups, polymers containing epoxy groups, polymers containing melamine, and polymers containing hydroxyl groups.

[0068] The at least one paint layer may also be dyed, especially by means of dyes and / or colored pigments. Preferably, the color tint of the at least one paint layer is less than 15%, more preferably less than 10%, and even more preferably less than 5%. This, in particular, enables the at least one paint layer to produce a special optical impression when combined with a backlighting device disposed beneath the paint layer, for example, producing a colored translucent impression when using a white light source as the backlighting device.

[0069] However, it is also possible for the at least one paint layer to be colorless and / or clear and transparent and / or for the paint layer to have a color saturation of 0%. Here, the color impression is determined, for example, by the backlighting device disposed beneath the paint layer and the color of its light.

[0070] Advantageously, the at least one second region and / or the at least one varnish layer are configured to be transparent and / or the at least one second region and / or the at least one varnish layer have a transmittance of at least 5%, preferably at least 25%, and more preferably at least 75%, especially in the wavelength range of 380 nm to 780 nm.

[0071] In at least one second region, the at least one paint layer can be applied as a single layer. Furthermore, the at least one paint layer can consist of two or more sublayers, particularly those sublayers having the same chemical and physical properties. In particular, the application of sublayers can improve coating quality, for example, in the absence of an underlayer with uniform structure and / or other properties.

[0072] Furthermore, the at least one paint layer can be provided in multiple layers, especially the at least one paint layer is composed of two or more sub-layers, and the two or more sub-layers are preferably provided with a layer thickness of 0.1 μm to 50 μm, more preferably 0.5 μm to 5.0 μm respectively.

[0073] Furthermore, it is significant that the two or more sub-layers have different colors, especially colors from the RGB or CMYK color space.

[0074] Color or chromaticity (Farbigkeit), or a single color or chromaticity, can be understood as the chromaticity coordinates (Farbort) in a color space. A color space can be, in particular, the CIELAB color space. Color spaces can also be the RGB color space (R = red, G = green, B = blue), the CMYK color space (C = cyan, M = magenta, Y = yellow, K = black), or color spaces such as RAL, HKS, or Panton® color spaces.

[0075] Different chromaticities or varying chromaticities can be understood as the color distance dE between two chromaticity coordinates in a color space. The color space can be, in particular, the CIELAB color space. The color distance dE between different chromaticities that the human eye can perceive sufficiently in the CIELAB color space is at least 2, preferably at least 3, particularly preferably at least 5, and even more preferably at least 10.

[0076] Especially in the CIELAB color space, chromaticity coordinates are usually determined using a colorimeter, such as the "Datacolor 650" spectrophotometer.

[0077] In chromaticity coordinates (L*, a*, b*) p and (L*, a*, b*) v The dE value (or ΔE) between them is calculated as the Euclidean distance:

[0078]

[0079] Here, the brightness value L* is perpendicular to the color plane (a*, b*). The a-coordinate represents the color type and intensity between green and red, and the b-coordinate represents the color type and intensity between blue and yellow. The larger the positive a and b values ​​and the smaller the negative a and b values, the more intense the hue. If a = 0 and b = 0, there is an achromatic hue on the brightness axis. Typically, L* can take values ​​between 0 and 100, and a and b can vary between -128 and +127.

[0080] Furthermore, it is conceivable that one of the colors of the sublayers of the at least one paint layer is locally set, in particular one of the colors is present in at least one first local region and not present in at least one second local region and / or the sublayer is set in a grid, the grid being particularly selected from: frequency-modulated grids, amplitude-modulated grids, random grids, pseudo-random grids.

[0081] In step c), at least two different paint layers may also be provided in at least one of the second regions, the at least two paint layers being different in particular in terms of their optical properties, such as color and / or optical density and / or transmittance.

[0082] The advantage of the aforementioned embodiments is that, in possible backlighting of plastic articles, monochrome or multicolor patterns and / or themes can be produced by means of only one backlighting device.

[0083] However, it is also possible to leave the paint layer unpainted in at least one second region. The substrate is therefore preferably formed in this region facing the observer. Here, for example in backlighting of plastic articles, the optical properties of the substrate and / or the backlighting device can be seen.

[0084] Furthermore, the optical density of at least one second region and / or at least one paint layer (especially when the surface is completely covered with a monochromatic color) and / or the optical density of a local area of ​​at least one second region can be selected from the range of 0.5 to 3, preferably 0.8 to 2.5.

[0085] Optical density (OD) values ​​are measured, for example, using a densitometer "Bezeichnung" manufactured by X-Rite GmbH (82152 Planegg-Martinsried), Germany. In measuring optical density, a precisely defined, oriented white light beam is aimed, for example, at the surface of a colored paint layer disposed on a substrate. The measuring beam passes through the colored paint layer and is reflected at the interface between the colored paint layer and the substrate. The reflected light passes through the colored paint layer again and is detected by a photoelectric element, where an electrical signal proportional to the light intensity is generated. During the two passes through the colored paint layer, the originally white measuring light is preferably colored and attenuated, especially through absorption. This produces a reflectance value (R), which is preferably advantageously corrected to R = 1 (= 100%) by a standard. Therefore, the highest achievable reflectance value is preferably R = 1. The measured reflectance value is therefore preferably a value in the range of 0 to 1, and the reflectance value is especially a dimensionless value.

[0086] Then, the value of optical density (OD) can be calculated from the reflectance value (R) according to the following equation: OD = lg(1 / R).

[0087] According to the above equation, a high reflectance value results in a low optical density value, and vice versa. The optical density of a substrate with a preferred reflectance value R = 1 is preferably OD = 0. As the amount of ink applied, the preferred layer thickness, or the tinting strength increases, the reflectance value decreases and the optical density increases.

[0088] Instead of reflection, the transmittance of the colored paint layer can also be considered to calculate the optical density. The functional relationship between transmittance (T) and optical density (OD) in percentage (%) is expressed as follows: OD = lg(100 / T[%]).

[0089] The at least one paint layer may be disposed substantially only in the at least one second region and not in the at least one first region. Alternatively, in step c), the at least one paint layer disposed in at least one of the second regions may also be disposed partially overlapping with the at least one first region, especially when the at least one paint layer is disposed below the substrate or below the substrate and / or the film, especially the decorative layer, on the side away from the observer when viewed from the visible side of the plastic article.

[0090] In other words, the at least one paint layer is particularly disposed in a first region that contacts the edge region of the at least one second region, and preferably at least one second region is disposed in the middle of each printed surface.

[0091] This is particularly advantageous when multiple second regions are close to each other, thereby accelerating the application of the paint layer by planarly extending the at least one paint layer across the second regions. Furthermore, it is advantageous to maintain only small tolerances when applying the paint layer in this way. This is because the second regions introduced into the at least one film, especially the decorative layer, by means of a laser, act as a mask.

[0092] Before applying the at least one paint layer, a primer may also be applied to the at least one second region. In particular, the primer is applied between the substrate and / or the at least one film, especially the decorative layer, and the at least one paint layer.

[0093] The preferred primer, especially in the wavelength range of 380 nm to 780 nm, has a transmittance of at least 10%, preferably at least 25%, more preferably at least 75%, and even more preferably at least 90%. The primer may also be dyed, preferably white, especially by means of dyes and / or colored pigments. The preferred tinting strength of the primer is less than 15%, preferably less than 10%, and more preferably less than 5%.

[0094] However, the primer can also be colorless and / or clear and transparent and / or the tinting strength of the primer can be 0%.

[0095] The primer is preferably provided with a layer thickness selected from the range of 0.1 μm to 10 μm, preferably 0.3 μm to 5 μm, or the primer has such a layer thickness.

[0096] The primer improves the adhesion of the at least one paint layer to the printed substrate and / or compensates for unevenness and / or improves the color quality and brilliance of the at least one paint layer.

[0097] The at least one paint layer is precisely registered and / or precisely aligned.

[0098] Registration or alignment, or registration accuracy, should be understood as the positional accuracy of two or more elements, membranes, planes, regions, and / or layers relative to each other. This registration accuracy should be within predetermined tolerances and as low as possible. Furthermore, the registration accuracy of multiple elements, membranes, planes, regions, and / or layers relative to each other is an important characteristic for improving process reliability.

[0099] Precise positioning can be achieved, in particular, through sensing, preferably optically detectable, registration marks or overlay marks, optical sensor units, preferably cameras, templates, masks, and / or mechanical stops. In particular, the registration marks or overlay marks can represent specific individual elements, regions, or layers, or are themselves part of the element, region, or layer to be positioned.

[0100] The at least one paint layer (arranged such that it is situated on the side of the plastic article facing the observer above the substrate and / or in at least partial contact with the at least one decorative layer) is preferably set with a tolerance of at most ±0.7 mm, preferably at most ±0.5 mm, and more preferably at most ±0.3 mm relative to a specified position, or has the aforementioned tolerance relative to a specified position. The at least one paint layer (located on the side of the substrate away from the at least one decorative layer) is preferably set with a tolerance of at most ±5 mm, preferably at most ±1 mm, and more preferably at most ±0.5 mm relative to a specified position and / or has the aforementioned tolerance relative to a specified position.

[0101] The at least one paint layer in step c) can be applied online and / or downstream. In other words, the method steps can be performed directly and sequentially and / or the application of the at least one paint layer can be performed after the at least one film, especially the decorative layer, has been temporarily stored, transported, and / or removed from the equipment provided for the method.

[0102] In order to implement the method for setting the at least one paint layer, it is advantageous to use a paint that has a surface energy during step c) preferably selected from the range of 15 mN / m to 45 mN / m, and more preferably from 20 mN / m to 35 mN / m.

[0103] Furthermore, it is advantageous that the surface energy of the at least one film, especially the decorative layer and / or the substrate, during step c) is selected from the range of 30 mN / m to 50 mN / m, preferably 30 mN / m to 45 mN / m.

[0104] Preferably, in step c), the difference between the surface tension of the paint in the at least one paint layer and the surface tension of the at least one film, especially the decorative layer and / or the substrate, is at least one value selected from the range of ±5mN / m to ±100mN / m, preferably ±10mN / m to ±70mN / m, and at most a value selected from the range of ±15mN / m to ±50mN / m, preferably ±20mN / m to ±35mN / m.

[0105] Compared to the paint to be coated in the at least one paint layer, the at least one film, especially the decorative layer and / or the substrate, preferably has a larger surface energy during step c).

[0106] Surface energy can be understood as the minimum amount of energy that must be expended to break the molecular bonds at the surface of a liquid and / or solid. In other words, surface energy is the force required to increase the surface area of ​​a liquid and / or solid.

[0107] If the paint, the at least one film, and / or the substrate have the aforementioned surface energy values, it can be ensured that the paint is sufficiently wettable on the one hand, but on the other hand, that the paint droplets do not completely flow or even diffuse. The paint droplets thus adhere to the printed surface in a defined geometry without flowing. Therefore, exceptionally high levels of detail can be achieved during printing.

[0108] Preferably, the at least one paint layer in the at least one second region is provided with a layer thickness selected from the range of 2μm to 36μm, preferably 4μm to 18μm, and preferably 5μm to 12μm.

[0109] Preferably, the substrate is made of a single layer or multiple layers of thermoplastic material, which is selected alone or in combination from: PC, PET, PMMA, PEN, PA, and ABS. Because of the thermoplasticity of the material, molding can be achieved without any problems.

[0110] Advantageously, the substrate is configured to be transparent or translucent and / or the substrate has a transmittance of at least 10%, preferably at least 25%, more preferably at least 75%, and even more preferably at least 90% in the wavelength range of 380 nm to 780 nm.

[0111] Thus, the substrate can be illuminated, especially by means of a backlighting device, and / or the at least one film, especially the decorative layer, is visible when it is disposed below the substrate in the viewing direction.

[0112] The above-described design of the substrate is also advantageous if the at least one membrane, in particular a decorative layer, is disposed on the side of the substrate away from the observer, because in this case the decorative layer is protected from external, in particular chemical and / or physical loads, while still being perceived by the observer.

[0113] The preferred substrate has a layer thickness selected from 0.25 mm to 20 mm, especially 1 mm to 5 mm. This ensures the manufacture of thin and, where necessary, flexible plastic articles.

[0114] Advantageously, the at least one laser used during the method in step b) and / or present in the device is preferably selected from: solid-state lasers, preferably fiber lasers, YAG lasers, UV lasers, ruby ​​lasers and / or sapphire lasers, diode lasers, gas lasers and / or dye lasers.

[0115] Advantageously, the at least one laser preferably emits coherent light from the infrared range, particularly from the near-infrared range, more preferably from the wavelength range of 200 nm to 1400 nm, more preferably from the wavelength range of 780 nm to 1200 nm, and even more preferably from the wavelength of 1064 nm. Alternatively, a laser that emits light, particularly from the ultraviolet range, more preferably from the wavelength of 340 nm to 400 nm, and even more preferably from the wavelength of 355 nm, can also be used. Furthermore, the laser can operate continuously or in pulses.

[0116] In addition, in step b), the at least one laser may also be used, which has a beam diameter of at least 30 μm, preferably at least 50 μm, and preferably at least 100 μm at the focal point.

[0117] The laser beam can also be focused using at least one lens, especially a lens with a focal length in the range of 100mm to 500mm, preferably 150mm to 300mm, and more preferably 163mm or 254mm.

[0118] Suitablely, in step b), the laser beam is deflected along the at least one second region by means of a deflectable mirror, and in particular by means of a laser scanning module.

[0119] The laser beam can be controlled, in particular, with a tolerance of at most ±0.5 mm, preferably at most ±0.3 mm, and more preferably at most ±0.1 mm relative to a specified position, or the second region generated by the laser can have a tolerance of at most ±0.5 mm, preferably at most ±0.3 mm, and more preferably at most ±0.1 mm relative to a specified position.

[0120] Preferably, the at least one laser has a power range of 0.05W to 100W, more preferably 1W to 50W, and even more preferably 5W to 20W. In particular, the at least one laser operates at a maximum writing speed of 10,000 mm / s, preferably a writing speed range of 500 m / s to 2,500 mm / s.

[0121] Furthermore, the at least one laser operates, in particular, at a pulse frequency selected from the range of 1 Hz to 1000 kHz, preferably 25 kHz to 400 kHz, and / or the at least one laser operates at a speed up to 3000 characters / second, preferably selected from the range of 800 characters / second to 1500 characters / second. The required laser beam intensity depends on the type and thickness of the at least one film, especially the decorative layer, and on the speed at which the at least one film, especially the decorative layer, should be removed.

[0122] The at least one film, especially the decorative layer, may also be printable, and the method further includes the following steps, especially performed before step d) and / or after step c):

[0123] g) By means of digital printing, print, in particular, a primer and / or at least one paint layer (preferably including a tactile paint) on the at least one film, especially the decorative layer, forming at least one third region therein, and the at least one third region does not overlap with the at least one second region.

[0124] This can further enhance the design possibilities of products manufactured using this method.

[0125] Preferably, the design scheme for the at least one third region can refer to variations of the design scheme for the at least one second region, especially in terms of printing method and / or printing parameters and / or printing device.

[0126] Alternatively or additionally, the at least one third region may be configured to be opaque and / or have a reflectance value of at most 0.5, preferably at most 0.2, and more preferably at most 0.05 in the wavelength range of 380 nm to 780 nm.

[0127] For example, an advantage offered when using the same printhead is that step g) can be performed online and without the additional cost of an additional printing device. Alternatively, step g) can also be performed downstream. It is particularly advantageous to position the at least one third region where no backlighting device is provided. Preferably, the at least one first region and the at least one third region at least partially and / or completely overlap.

[0128] Preferably, one of the following digital printing methods is used in step c) and / or step g), especially for setting the at least one paint layer: inkjet, especially continuous inkjet and / or piezoelectric inkjet and / or thermoelectric inkjet (bubble inkjet) and / or thermal printing.

[0129] Preferably, in steps c) and / or g), when applying the at least one paint layer by printing, the size of a single ink droplet is selected from the range of 2 p1 to 50 p1, preferably 2.5 p1 to 30 p1. Furthermore, 2 to 10, preferably 3 to 7, ink droplets can also be combined during setup.

[0130] It is also preferred that the dynamic viscosity of the paint in the at least one paint layer during the printing process is selected from the range of 3 mPas to 100 mPas, preferably 4 mPas to 80 mPas, and preferably 5 mPas to 50 mPas.

[0131] The printhead resolution is preferably between 300 npi and 1200 npi (npi = number of nozzles per inch). This determines the print resolution transverse to the feed direction of the substrate and / or printhead. The resolution along the feed direction of the substrate and / or printhead is determined by the feed accuracy of the corresponding precisely controlled drive and is preferably between 300 dpi and 4800 dpi.

[0132] Furthermore, the method may also include the following steps, particularly performed before step c) and / or step g):

[0133] h) In particular, the surface of the substrate and / or the surface of at least one film, especially the decorative layer, is pretreated by one or more of the following methods: corona treatment, flame treatment, cleaning, plasma treatment.

[0134] This achieves better adhesion of the at least one film, especially the decorative layer or the at least one paint layer, to the substrate and enables higher manufacturing quality.

[0135] The method may also include the following additional steps, which are performed particularly before and / or after step b) and / or step c):

[0136] i) Preferably, the at least one film, especially the decorative layer and / or the substrate, is formed using a vacuum, high pressure or deep drawing die.

[0137] In particular, common deep-drawing methods can be used here. Typically, at least one film, especially a decorative layer and / or substrate, is provided as a sheet and placed into a deep-drawing die with the desired final profile. The at least one film, especially the decorative layer and / or substrate, is deformable by applying heat, preferably at a temperature of 80°C to 200°C. The at least one film, especially the decorative layer and / or substrate, can then be shaped by applying a vacuum and / or by using a die and / or air overpressure, thus achieving the desired final profile. Upon cooling, the material of the film, especially the decorative layer, and / or the substrate then hardens again, thereby retaining their final profile.

[0138] After deep drawing, further mechanical processing can be carried out if necessary, such as trimming, which is preferably done mechanically or with the aid of lasers, milling, stamping, etc.

[0139] In particular, in step d), the paint layer and / or the at least one film, especially the decorative layer, is thermally aging cured and / or aged by high-energy radiation, preferably UV radiation. The curing is particularly carried out before and / or after the at least one film, especially the decorative layer, is applied to the substrate. Preferably, the device according to the invention has at least one UV lamp, especially a mercury vapor lamp and / or a UV-LED lamp and / or at least one infrared (IR) heating element for this purpose.

[0140] The age hardening in preferred step d) is achieved by using a material selected from 800 mJ / cm². 2 Up to 1200mJ / cm 2 Radiation dose in the range and / or at least 550 mW / cm 2 The intensity and / or wavelength of the UV radiation are in the range of 200 nm to 280 nm. In particular, the at least one film, especially the decorative layer and / or the substrate, has a different surface energy after step d) compared to during step c).

[0141] Of course, depending on the application of the plastic product, it is conceivable that in another step or method, the plastic product is placed into an injection mold and back-molded with plastic injection material. Furthermore, at least one functional element, particularly a backlighting device, can be installed before and / or after this, including organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), inorganic light-emitting diodes (LEDs), micro LEDs (mLEDs) and / or quantum dot light-emitting diodes (QLEDs), and / or touch sensors (touch sensors) and / or other functional components, such as control electronics and / or mechanical and / or conductive connection components and / or electromagnetic shielding and / or thermal shielding and / or optical shielding. The functional element can be fixedly connected to the plastic product, particularly by adhesive or lamination. The functional element is preferably mounted on the side of the plastic product away from the observer. Additionally or alternatively, the functional element may have electrical wires and / or electrical / electronic structural elements.

[0142] The plastic articles according to the invention are particularly translucent and especially for use with displays and / or touch screens and / or panels. The plastic articles have proven particularly suitable for use in one of the following fields: white goods, motor vehicles, air transport, ships, household appliances, telecommunications equipment, consumer goods and / or electronic products.

[0143] Advantageously, the equipment also includes a reserve roll for providing the at least one film, especially the decorative layer and / or substrate; a conveying device for the at least one film, especially the decorative layer and / or substrate; a roller assembly for setting, for example, an adsorbent; a peeling unit for peeling the carrier film from at least one local area of ​​the transfer layer; a forming device; a device for pretreating the surface of the substrate and / or film, especially the decorative layer; and a device for mechanically reprocessing the plastic articles, which is particularly necessary for implementing the above method.

[0144] Of course, the above-mentioned characteristics of things can also be used equivalently for the method characteristics mentioned in methods or products. Attached Figure Description

[0145] The present invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings and various embodiments. Therefore, the embodiments shown should not be construed as limiting. The accompanying drawings are as follows:

[0146] Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of a plastic article is shown;

[0147] Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of a plastic article is shown;

[0148] Figure 3 A schematic cross-sectional view of a plastic article is shown;

[0149] Figure 4 A schematic cross-sectional view of a plastic article is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0150] Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of a plastic article 1 is shown. The plastic article 1 includes at least one film 10, particularly a decorative layer, and a substrate 11, and has at least one first region 21 and at least one second region 22. In the observer's viewing direction 20, the plastic article 1 has the at least one film 10, particularly the decorative layer, in the at least one first region 21 and at least one paint layer 12 in the at least one second region 22. The at least one second region 22 has a higher transmittance than the at least one first region 21.

[0151] Figure 1The plastic article 1, comprising at least one first region 21 and at least one second region 22, is obtained by a method in which, in a preferred first step (step a) of the method, a film 10 comprising a carrier film and at least one decorative layer is provided. In step b), the at least one first region 21 and the at least one second region 22 are introduced into a plane formed by the at least one film, particularly the decorative layer, using a laser. Furthermore, in step c), at least one paint layer 12 is disposed in the at least one second region by means of digital printing. Another step of the manufacturing method, namely step d), is age curing, particularly the simultaneous age curing of the at least one film 10, particularly the decorative layer, and / or the at least one paint layer 12. Furthermore, in step e), the at least one film 10, particularly the decorative layer, is disposed on a substrate. The method can be carried out in the above-described order or in other orders.

[0152] The preferred method for manufacturing plastic articles is carried out in an apparatus comprising at least one laser and at least one digital printhead.

[0153] It has proven advantageous that, in step a), the at least one provided film 10, particularly the decorative layer, is preferably provided as a transfer film, particularly comprising a carrier film and a transfer layer peelable from the carrier film, or as a laminated film, or constructed as such a film. The carrier film can be peeled off during the method, particularly before, during, or after step e).

[0154] Preferably, the at least one film 10, especially the decorative layer, is a layer having components, individually or in combination, selected from the following, especially adhesives: monomers, oligomers, polymers, copolymers, preferably individually or in combination selected from: polymethyl methacrylate, polyester, polycarbonate, polyamide, polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), phenol, polymers containing isocyanate groups, polymers containing epoxy groups, polymers containing melamine, polymers containing hydroxyl groups, and more preferably including polyurethane and / or PVC.

[0155] Furthermore, it is advantageous that the at least one film 10, particularly the decorative layer, has multiple layers, especially at least one or more of the following layers, each selected individually or in combination from: at least one colored paint layer, at least one metal layer, at least one adhesive layer, at least one adhesion promoter layer, at least one barrier layer, at least one receiving layer, at least one protective paint layer, at least one release layer, at least one replication layer, and at least one laser protective paint layer. It is further advantageous that the at least one decorative layer forms a transfer layer and is peelable from the carrier film.

[0156] Preferably, the at least one film 10, especially the decorative layer, has a layer thickness selected from the range of 0.1 μm to 50 μm, preferably 0.5 μm to 35 μm, and preferably 1 μm to 5 μm.

[0157] Furthermore, the at least one film 10, particularly the decorative layer, may have a metallized portion, which in particular has a layer thickness of 1 nm to 20 μm, preferably 5 nm to 15 μm. Preferably, the metallized portion is made of metals and / or combinations and / or alloys selected alone or in combination from the following: aluminum, copper, cobalt, gold, indium, iron, chromium, nickel, silver, platinum, palladium, and titanium.

[0158] exist Figure 1 In the plastic article 1 shown, the at least one film 10, in particular a decorative layer, is disposed or disposed on the entire surface of the substrate 11. Alternatively, the at least one film 10, in particular a decorative layer, may be disposed or disposed only partially, especially in the viewing direction facing the decorative layer toward the substrate 11, particularly when the substrate 11 is visible to the observer.

[0159] It is particularly advantageous that the at least one film 10, especially the decorative layer, is configured to be opaque and / or the at least one film 10, especially the decorative layer, has a transmittance of up to 50%, preferably up to 20%, and more preferably up to 5% in the wavelength range of 380 nm to 780 nm.

[0160] In step e), the at least one film 10, especially the decorative layer, can be set by means of a transfer paint method, especially a hot stamping method and / or an IMD method and / or by means of a lamination method, especially an IML method, an insert molding method and / or a PMD method.

[0161] In addition, Figure 1 In the plastic article 1 shown, the at least one film 10, especially the decorative layer, is arranged or disposed on the substrate 11 such that the decorative layer faces the observer.

[0162] Preferably, the at least one film 10, especially the decorative layer, is disposed on the substrate 11 such that the film is fixedly connected to the substrate 11, so that they can no longer be mechanically separated without damaging at least one of the elements.

[0163] In step b), the film, especially the decorative layer, is irradiated with a laser to form at least one first region and at least one second region, the at least one second region having higher transmittance. It is particularly advantageous that, in step b), the at least one film 10, especially the decorative layer, is removed, preferably completely removed, from the at least one second region 22.

[0164] The at least one second region 22 can also be formed such that at least one layer of the decorative layer is removed. In particular, the at least one second region 22 can be formed such that at least one layer of the decorative layer, preferably at least one colored paint layer, is not removed, preferably not completely removed, in the at least one second region 22. Therefore, at least one colored paint layer can be provided in the second region 22, especially after step b).

[0165] Advantageously, particularly in the wavelength range of 380 nm to 780 nm, the difference in transmittance between the at least one first region 21 and the at least one second region 22 of the plastic article 1 is preferably at least 5%, preferably at least 10%, and particularly preferably at least 25%. Preferably, the at least one second region in the plastic article has a higher transmittance than the at least one first region.

[0166] In particular, at least one second area 22 is designed in the form of symbols, geometric shapes, patterns, alphanumeric characters, and / or logos, or includes them. These forms may also be combined with abstract graphic design elements. The design of the at least one second area 22 may be purely decorative, but is preferably also functional and, for example, a display or operating element of a marking device, such as a status display, operating surface, or the like.

[0167] Further preferably, when viewed perpendicularly to the at least one film 10, especially the decorative layer, the at least one second region 22 has a linewidth of at least 50 μm, preferably at least 100 μm and / or when viewed perpendicularly to the at least one film 10, especially the decorative layer, the at least one second region 22 has a linewidth of at most 2 mm, preferably at most 1 mm, and further preferably at most 0.5 mm.

[0168] Advantageously, in step c), the at least one paint layer 12 is in contact with the at least one film 10, especially the decorative layer, and / or is disposed on the side of the substrate 11 away from the film 10, especially the decorative layer.

[0169] In other words, in Figure 1 In the plastic articles, the at least one paint layer 12 is disposed above the substrate 11 along the viewing direction 20, preferably on one of the surfaces of the substrate 11. Furthermore, the at least one paint layer is disposed in an area in which the at least one film, particularly a decorative layer, in step b) has been removed, particularly completely removed, by means of laser irradiation.

[0170] In the at least one second region 22, especially when at least one layer of the decorative layer has been removed and / or at least one layer of the decorative layer has not been removed, preferably not completely removed, preferably at least one colored paint layer, the paint layer 12 partially or fully overlaps with at least one layer of the decorative layer, preferably at least one colored paint layer.

[0171] Preferably, the at least one paint layer 12 has a composition that can be age-cured by applying thermal radiation and / or high-energy radiation, preferably UV radiation, especially radiation with wavelengths in the range of 200 nm to 280 nm. Suitably, in accordance with Figure 1 In the plastic article 1, the at least one paint layer 12 is made of components, individually or in combination, selected from the following, especially binders: polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polymethyl methacrylate, polyester, polyacrylate, polycarbonate, polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyamide, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS), phenol, polymers containing isocyanate groups, polymers containing epoxy groups, polymers containing melamine, and polymers containing hydroxyl groups.

[0172] The at least one paint layer 12 may also be dyed, particularly by means of dyes and / or colored pigments. Preferably, the color intensity of the at least one paint layer is less than 15%, more preferably less than 10%, and even more preferably less than 5%.

[0173] However, the at least one paint layer 12 may also be colorless and / or clear and transparent and / or the color saturation of the paint layer may be 0%. Here, for example, the color impression is determined by a backlighting device disposed beneath the paint layer.

[0174] Advantageously, the at least one second region 22 and / or the at least one varnish layer 12 are configured to be transparent and / or the at least one second region 22 and / or the at least one varnish layer 12 have a transmittance of at least 5%, preferably at least 25%, more preferably at least 75%, and even more preferably at least 90% in the wavelength range of 380 nm to 780 nm.

[0175] In the at least one second region 22, the at least one paint layer 12 can be provided as a single layer. Furthermore, the at least one paint layer 12 can be composed of two or more sublayers, particularly those sublayers having the same chemical and physical properties.

[0176] Furthermore, the at least one paint layer can be provided in multiple layers, especially the at least one paint layer is composed of two or more sub-layers, and the two or more first sub-layers are preferably provided with layer thicknesses in the range of 0.1 μm and 50 μm, more preferably 0.5 μm and 5.0 μm, respectively.

[0177] Furthermore, it is significant that the two or more sub-layers have different colors, especially colors from the RGB or CMYK color space.

[0178] Furthermore, it is conceivable that one of the colors of each of the sub-layers of the at least one paint layer is locally set, in particular one of the colors is present in at least one first local region and not present in at least one second local region and / or the sub-layers are set in a grid configuration in particular selected from the following: frequency-modulated grid, amplitude-modulated grid, random grid, pseudo-random grid.

[0179] In step c), at least two different paint layers may also be introduced in at least one of the second regions, the at least two paint layers being different in particular in terms of their optical properties, such as color and / or optical density and / or transmittance.

[0180] In other words, the at least one paint layer 12 and / or the at least one second region 22 can be set and / or designed in a single color and / or multiple colors.

[0181] Furthermore, the optical density of at least one second region 22 and / or at least one paint layer (especially when the surface is completely covered with a monochromatic color) and / or the optical density of a local area of ​​at least one second region 22 can be selected from the range of 0.5 to 3, preferably 0.8 to 2.5.

[0182] Basically, the at least one paint layer is preferably disposed only in the second region 22, and not in the first region 21.

[0183] Figure 1 The at least one paint layer 12 can be precisely fitted and / or precisely registered.

[0184] Precise positioning can be achieved, in particular, through sensing, preferably optically detectable, registration marks or overlay marks, optical sensor units, preferably cameras, templates, masks, and / or mechanical stops. In particular, the registration marks or overlay marks can represent specific individual elements, regions, or layers, or are themselves part of the element, region, or layer to be positioned.

[0185] The at least one paint layer 12 (which is arranged such that it is disposed on the side of the plastic article 1 facing the observer above the substrate 11 and / or in at least partial contact with the at least one decorative layer) is preferably set with a tolerance of at most ±0.7 mm, preferably at most ±0.5 mm, more preferably at most ±0.3 mm relative to a specified position, or has the above-mentioned tolerance relative to a specified position.

[0186] The at least one paint layer 12 in step c) can be applied online and / or downstream. In other words, the method steps can be performed directly and sequentially and / or the application of the at least one paint layer 12 can be performed after the at least one film 10, especially the decorative layer, having the at least second region 22, has been temporarily stored, transported, and / or removed from the equipment provided for the method.

[0187] To implement the method for setting the paint layer 12, it is advantageous to use a paint having a surface energy during step c) preferably selected from the range of 15 mN / m to 45 mN / m, more preferably from 20 mN / m to 35 mN / m. Furthermore, it is advantageous that during step c), the surface energy of the at least one film 10, particularly the decorative layer and / or the substrate 11, is selected from the range of 30 mN / m to 50 mN / m, more preferably from 30 mN / m to 45 mN / m.

[0188] Preferably, the difference between the surface tension of the paint in the at least one paint layer and the surface tension of the at least one film, especially the decorative layer and / or the substrate, is at least one value selected from the range of ±5 mN / m to ±100 mN / m, preferably ±10 mN / m to ±70 mN / m, and a maximum value selected from the range of ±15 mN / m to ±50 mN / m, preferably ±20 mN / m to ±35 mN / m. Compared to the paint to be applied to the at least one paint layer, the at least one film, especially the decorative layer and / or the substrate, preferably has a larger surface energy during step c).

[0189] Preferably, the at least one paint layer 12 in the at least one second region 22 is set with a layer thickness selected from the range of 2μm to 36μm, preferably 4μm to 18μm, and preferably from 5μm to 12μm.

[0190] Especially Figure 1 It is also conceivable that, alternatively or additionally, no paint layer 12 is provided in at least one second region 22, so that the substrate 11 forms the uppermost layer in that region along the viewing direction 20.

[0191] The substrate 11 is preferably made of one or more layers of thermoplastic materials selected individually or in combination from the following: PC, PET, PMMA, PEN, PA, ABS.

[0192] Advantageously, the substrate 11 is configured to be transparent or translucent and / or the substrate 11 has a transmittance of at least 10%, preferably at least 25%, more preferably at least 75%, and even more preferably at least 90% in the wavelength range of 380 nm to 780 nm.

[0193] Furthermore, the method may also include the following steps, particularly performed before step c) and / or step g):

[0194] h) In particular, the surface of the substrate 11 and / or the surface of the at least one film 10, especially the decorative layer, is pretreated by one or more of the methods described herein: corona treatment, flame treatment, cleaning, plasma treatment.

[0195] The preferred substrate 11 has a layer thickness selected from 0.25 mm to 20 mm, especially 1 mm to 5 mm.

[0196] Advantageously, the at least one laser used in step b) during the method and / or present in the device is preferably selected from: solid-state lasers, preferably fiber lasers, YAG lasers, UV lasers, ruby ​​lasers and / or sapphire lasers, diode lasers, gas lasers and / or dye lasers.

[0197] Advantageously, the at least one laser preferably emits coherent light from the infrared range, particularly from the near-infrared range, more preferably from the wavelength range of 200 nm to 1400 nm, more preferably from the wavelength range of 780 nm to 1200 nm, and even more preferably from the wavelength of 1064 nm. Alternatively, a laser that emits coherent light, particularly from the ultraviolet range, more preferably from the wavelength of 340 nm to 400 nm, and even more preferably from the wavelength of 355 nm, can also be used. Furthermore, the laser can operate continuously or in pulses.

[0198] In addition, in step b), the at least one laser may also be used, which has a beam diameter of at least 30 μm, preferably at least 50 μm, and preferably at least 100 μm at the focal point.

[0199] The laser beam can also be focused using at least one lens, especially with a focal length in the range of 100mm to 500mm, preferably in the range of 150mm to 300mm, and more preferably 163mm or 254mm.

[0200] Suitablely, in step b), the laser beam is deflected along the at least one second region 22 by means of a deflectable mirror, and in particular by means of a laser scanning module.

[0201] The laser beam can be controlled, in particular, with a tolerance of at most ±0.5 mm, preferably at most ±0.3 mm, and more preferably at most ±0.1 mm relative to a specified position, or the second region 22 generated by the laser can have a tolerance of at most ±0.5 mm, preferably at most ±0.3 mm, and more preferably at most ±0.1 mm relative to a specified position.

[0202] Preferably, the at least one laser has a power range of 0.05W to 100W, more preferably 1W to 50W, and even more preferably 5W to 20W. In particular, the at least one laser operates at a maximum writing speed of 10,000 mm / s, preferably at a writing speed range of 500 m / s to 2,500 mm / s.

[0203] Furthermore, the at least one laser operates, in particular, at a pulse frequency selected from the range of 1 Hz to 1000 kHz, preferably 25 kHz to 400 kHz, and / or the at least one laser operates at a speed up to 3000 characters / second, preferably selected from the range of 800 characters / second to 1500 characters / second. The required laser beam intensity depends on the type and thickness of the at least one film 10, especially the decorative layer, and the speed at which the at least one film 10, especially the decorative layer, should be removed.

[0204] Preferably, one of the following digital printing methods is used in step c), especially for setting the at least one paint layer 12: inkjet, especially continuous inkjet and / or piezoelectric inkjet and / or thermoelectric inkjet (bubble inkjet), and / or thermal printing.

[0205] Preferred for manufacturing basis Figure 1 In step c), when setting the at least one paint layer 12 by means of printing, the size of a single ink droplet is selected from the range of 2 p1 to 50 p1, preferably 2.5 p1 to 30 p1. Alternatively, 2 to 10, preferably 3 to 7 ink droplets can be combined during setting.

[0206] Preferably, in step c), the dynamic viscosity of the paint in the at least one paint layer 12 during the printing process is selected from the range of 3 mPas to 100 mPas, preferably 4 mPas to 80 mPas, and preferably 5 mPas to 50 mPas.

[0207] In step c), the printhead resolution is preferably between 300 and 1200 npi (npi = number of nozzles per inch). This determines the print resolution transverse to the feed direction of the substrate and / or printhead. The resolution along the feed direction of the substrate and / or printhead is determined by the feed accuracy of the corresponding precisely controlled drive and is preferably between 300 dpi and 4800 dpi.

[0208] The method may also include the following additional steps, which are performed particularly before and / or after step b) and / or step c):

[0209] i) Preferably, the at least one film 10, especially the decorative layer and / or the substrate (11), is formed by means of a vacuum, high pressure or deep drawing die.

[0210] In particular, common deep-drawing methods can be used here. Typically, at least one film 10, especially the decorative layer and / or substrate 11, is provided as a sheet and placed into a deep-drawing die with the desired final profile. The at least one film 10, especially the decorative layer and / or substrate 11, is deformable by applying heat, preferably at a temperature of 80°C to 200°C. The at least one film 10, especially the decorative layer and / or substrate, can then be adapted to the shape of the deep-drawing die by applying a vacuum and / or by using a die and / or air overpressure, thus achieving the desired final profile. Upon cooling, the material of the film 10, especially the decorative layer, and / or substrate 11 then undergoes re-aging hardening, thereby retaining their final profile.

[0211] After deep drawing, further mechanical processing can be performed if necessary, such as trimming, preferably mechanically or with the aid of laser, milling, or stamping.

[0212] In particular, in step d), the paint layer 12 and / or the at least one film 10, especially the decorative layer, is heat-aged and / or age-cured by high-energy radiation, preferably UV radiation. This curing is particularly carried out before and / or after the at least one film 10, especially the decorative layer, is applied to the substrate 11. Preferably, the device according to the invention has at least one UV lamp, especially a mercury vapor lamp and / or a UV-LED lamp, and / or at least one IR heating element for this purpose.

[0213] The age hardening in preferred step d) is achieved by using a material selected from 800 mJ / cm². 2 Up to 1200mJ / cm 2 Radiation dose in the range and / or at least 550 mW / cm 2 The intensity and / or wavelength of the UV radiation are in the range of 200 nm to 280 nm. In particular, the at least one film 10, especially the decorative layer and / or the substrate 11, has a different surface energy after step d) than during step c).

[0214] Of course, depending on the application of the plastic article 1, it is conceivable, in particular, that the plastic article is placed into an injection mold and back-injected with plastic injection molding material in another method step or method. Furthermore, at least one functional element, particularly a backlighting device 30, can be installed before and / or after this, including organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), inorganic light-emitting diodes (LEDs), micro LEDs (mLEDs) and / or quantum dot light-emitting diodes (QLEDs), and / or touch sensing sensors (touch sensors) and / or other functional components, such as control electronics and / or mechanical and / or conductive connection components and / or electromagnetic shielding and / or thermal shielding and / or optical shielding. The functional element can be fixedly connected to the plastic article 1, particularly by adhesive or lamination. The functional element is preferably mounted on the side of the plastic article 1 away from the viewing direction 20. Additionally or alternatively, the functional element can have electrical wires and / or electrical / electronic structural elements.

[0215] Figure 1 The plastic article 1 according to the invention can be used, for example, with displays and / or touch screens and / or panels. In particular, one of the following fields has proven suitable for the use of said plastic article 1: white goods, motor vehicles, air transport, ships, household appliances, telecommunications equipment, consumer products and / or electronic products.

[0216] Advantageously, the equipment also includes a reserve roll for providing the at least one film 10, especially the decorative layer and / or substrate 11; a conveying device for the at least one film 10, especially the decorative layer and / or substrate 11; a roller assembly for setting, for example, an adsorbent; a peeling unit for peeling the carrier film from at least one local area of ​​the transfer layer; a forming device; a device for pretreating the surface of the substrate 11 and / or film 10, especially the decorative layer; and a device for mechanically reprocessing the plastic article 1, which is particularly necessary for implementing the above method.

[0217] Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of another plastic article 1 is shown. Figure 2 Plastic products 1 are basically based on Figure 1 The structure of the plastic product 1 and its use in manufacturing according to Figure 1 Method for producing plastic products 1.

[0218] therefore, Figure 2 The plastic article 1 also has a substrate 11 and at least one film 10, particularly a decorative layer. In a viewing direction 20 toward the plane formed by the substrate 11, the plastic article 1 also includes at least one first region 21 and at least one second region 22. The plastic article 1 is also transmissive, particularly by means of a backlighting device 30.

[0219] Furthermore, the method for manufacturing plastic articles 1 can be used in conjunction with the method for manufacturing... Figure 1 The same equipment as the equipment for producing plastic products 1 is used in the process.

[0220] According to Figure 1 The main difference of the plastic article 1 is that the at least one paint layer 12 is disposed on the side of the substrate 11 away from the substrate 11 in the viewing direction 20. In other words, the at least one paint layer 12 is disposed below the substrate 11 in the viewing direction 20.

[0221] Furthermore, the at least one paint layer 12 disposed in at least one second region 22 may be disposed substantially only in at least one second region 22 and not in the adjacent first region 21. Alternatively, it is also possible that the at least one paint layer 12 disposed in at least one second region 22 in step c) partially overlaps with at least one first region 21.

[0222] The at least one paint layer 12 (disposed on the side of the substrate 11 away from the at least one film 10, particularly the decorative layer) is preferably set with a tolerance of at most ±5 mm, preferably at most ±1 mm, and more preferably at most ±0.3 mm relative to a specified position, and / or has the aforementioned tolerance relative to the specified position. Lower tolerances can be maintained compared to printing above the substrate because the second region acts as a mask when viewed from above.

[0223] exist Figure 3 A schematic cross-sectional view of another plastic article 1 is shown in the figure. Figure 3 Plastic products 1 are basically based on Figure 1 and / or Figure 2 The structure of the plastic article 1 and the method for manufacturing the plastic article 1.

[0224] Figure 3 The plastic article 1 also has a substrate 11 and at least one film 10, especially a decorative layer. Furthermore, in the viewing direction 20 toward the plane formed by the substrate 11, the plastic article 1 also includes at least one first region 21 and at least one second region 22 and is translucent, especially translucent by means of a backlighting device 30.

[0225] The method for manufacturing the plastic article 1 can be the same as the method for manufacturing according to Figure 1 The method for producing plastic articles 1 is carried out in the same equipment.

[0226] according to Figure 3 Plastic products 1 and according to Figure 1 and / or Figure 2The main difference of the plastic article 1 is that the at least one film 10, especially the decorative layer, and the paint layer 12 disposed at least in the second region 22 are applied below the substrate 11 in the viewing direction. Here, the at least one paint layer 12 may be disposed substantially only in at least one second region 22 and / or overlap with at least one first region 21.

[0227] Figure 4 A schematic cross-sectional view of a plastic article 1 is shown. This plastic article 1 can preferably be constructed using... Figure 1 , 2 Or, as described in 3, the method and / or equipment used to manufacture it. Figure 4 The plastic article 1 shown in the figure is particularly based on the aforementioned [law / method]. Figure 1 The plastic article 1 also includes a substrate 11 and at least one film 10, particularly a decorative layer, disposed above the substrate 11 in the viewing direction 20. In the viewing direction 20, looking from the plane formed by the substrate, the plastic article 1 has at least one first region 21 and at least one second region 22 introduced by means of a laser. At least one paint layer 12 is disposed in the at least one second region 22.

[0228] Before applying the at least one paint layer 12, a primer 13 may also be applied in at least one second region 22. The primer 13 is applied, in particular, between the substrate 11 and / or the at least one film 10, especially the decorative layer, and the at least one paint layer 12.

[0229] The primer 13 preferably has a transmittance of at least 10%, preferably at least 25%, more preferably at least 75%, and even more preferably at least 90% in the wavelength range of 380 nm to 780 nm. The primer 13 may also be dyed, preferably white, especially by means of dyes and / or colored pigments. The tinting strength of the primer 13 is preferably less than 15%, preferably less than 10%, and more preferably less than 5%.

[0230] However, primer 13 may also be colorless and / or clear and transparent and / or the tinting strength of primer 13 may be 0%.

[0231] The preferred primer 13 is set with a layer thickness selected from 0.1 μm to 10 μm, preferably 0.3 μm to 5 μm.

[0232] Furthermore, the at least one film 10, especially the decorative layer, is printable and used to manufacture according to Figure 3 The method for producing plastic articles also includes the following steps, particularly performed before and / or after step d):

[0233] g) By means of digital printing, at least one primer 13 and / or at least one paint layer 12 (preferably including tactile paint) are printed on the at least one film 10, especially the decorative layer, forming at least one third region 23 and the at least one third region 23 does not overlap with the at least one second region 22.

[0234] Preferred for Figure 4 The design of the at least one third region 23 can be modified with reference to the above-described design of the at least one second region 22, especially in terms of printing method and / or printing parameters and / or printing device.

[0235] Alternatively or additionally, the at least one third region 23 may be configured to be opaque and / or have a reflectance of at most 0.5, preferably at most 0.2, and more preferably at most 0.05 in the wavelength range of 380 nm to 780 nm.

[0236] For example, the same printhead used to set the at least one second region 22 can be used to set the at least one third region 23. Therefore, printing in step g) can be performed online, in particular. Alternatively, step g) can also be performed downstream. It is particularly advantageous to set the at least one third region 23 where no backlight illuminator 30 is installed. Preferably, the at least one first region 21 and the at least one third region 23 overlap at least partially and / or completely.

[0237] Of course, the listed implementation variations, especially in terms of the first, second and third regions and / or method steps or their order, can be combined with each other arbitrarily and do not constitute a limitation.

[0238] List of reference numerals

[0239] 1 Plastic products

[0240] 10. Film, decorative layer

[0241] 11 base

[0242] 12 coats of paint

[0243] 13 Primer

[0244] 14 coats of paint

[0245] 20 Observation Directions

[0246] 21 First District

[0247] 22 Second Region

[0248] 23 Third Region

[0249] 30 Backlighting Devices

Claims

1. Method for manufacturing a plastic article (1), characterized in that, The method comprises the following steps: a) providing at least one film (10) comprising a carrier film and at least one decorative layer; b) forming at least one first region (21) and at least one second region (22) in a plane formed by the at least one film (10) by means of a laser, the at least one second region (22) having a higher transmittance than the at least one first region (21); c) applying at least one lacquer layer (12) in the at least one second region (22) by means of digital printing; d) age-hardening the at least one film (10) and / or the at least one lacquer layer (12); e) applying the at least one film (10) to a substrate (11), f) obtaining a plastic article (1) comprising the at least one first region (21) and the at least one second region (22).

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, In step a) the at least one film (10) is provided as a transfer film or a laminated film.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein, In step b) the at least one film (10) is removed in the at least one second region (22).

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, In step b) the laser is operated at a writing speed of at most 10,000 mm / s and / or the laser is operated at a pulse frequency selected from the range of 1 Hz to 1,000 kHz at at most 3,000 characters per second.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The at least one second region (22) is designed in the form of a symbol, a geometric figure, a pattern, an alphanumeric character and / or a logo or comprises a symbol, a geometric figure, a pattern, an alphanumeric character and / or a logo.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The laser is operated continuously or in pulses.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, A primer (13) is applied in the at least one second region (22) before the at least one lacquer layer (12) is applied.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The method further comprises the following step: g) printing on the at least one film (10) by means of digital printing, where at least one third region (23) is formed and the at least one third region (23) does not overlap the at least one second region (22).

9. The method of claim 8, wherein, Step c) and / or step g) are carried out inline and / or downstream.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, In step c) one of the following digital printing methods is used: inkjet, and / or thermal printing.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, In step c) the at least one lacquer layer (12) is applied in contact with the at least one film (10) and / or on a side of the substrate (11) facing away from the film (10).

12. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, In step c) the at least one lacquer layer (12) is applied at least partially overlapping the at least one first region (21).

13. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, In step c) different at least two lacquer layers (12) are introduced in the at least one second region (22).

14. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, In the at least one second region (22) no lacquer layer (12) is applied.

15. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, In the at least one second region (22) the at least one lacquer layer (12) is applied with a layer thickness selected from the range of 2 μm to 36 μm.

16. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, In the at least one second region (22) the at least one lacquer layer (12) is configured as a single layer or the at least one lacquer layer (12) consists of two or more sub-layers.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein, The two or more sub-layers of the at least one lacquer layer (12) have different colors, and / or one of the colors of the sub-layers of the at least one lacquer layer (12) is arranged locally such that one of the colors is present in at least one first local region and is not present in at least one second local region, and / or the sub-layers are arranged in a grid.

18. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The at least one lacquer layer (12) is arranged with register accuracy and / or with alignment accuracy.

19. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The at least one lacquer layer (12) is arranged such that it is arranged above the base (11) on the side of the plastic article (1) facing the observer and / or at least partially in contact with the at least one film (10), the at least one lacquer layer being arranged with a tolerance of at most ±0.7 mm relative to a defined position, and / or the at least one lacquer layer (12) is arranged on the side of the base (11) facing away from the at least one film (10), the at least one lacquer layer being arranged with a tolerance of at most ±5 mm relative to a defined position.

20. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The optical density of the at least one second region (22) and / or of the at least one lacquer layer (12) and / or the optical density of a local region of the at least one second region (22) is selected from the range from 0.5 to 3 in the case of a complete surface covering with a single color tone.

21. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, A lacquer is used in step c) which has a surface energy selected from the range from 15 mN / m to 45 mN / m and / or the surface energy of the at least one film (10) and / or of the base (11) is selected from the range from 30 mN / m to 50 mN / m.

22. The method of claim 8, wherein, In step c) and / or in step g), the size of an individual droplet when setting the at least one lacquer layer (12) by means of printing is selected from the range from 2 pl to 50 pl and / or 2 to 10 droplets are combined when setting.

23. The method of claim 8, wherein, In step c) and / or in step g), the dynamic viscosity of the lacquer of the at least one lacquer layer (12) during the printing process is selected from the range from 3 mPas to 100 mPas.

24. The method of claim 8, wherein, In step c) and / or in step g), the resolution of the print head is between 300 npi and 1200 npi.

25. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, In step e), the at least one film (10) is arranged on the base (11) over the entire surface.

26. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, In step e), the at least one film (10) is arranged on the base (11) by means of a transfer lacquer method and / or by means of a lamination method.

27. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, In step e), the at least one film (10) is arranged on the base (11) locally, the base (11) being visible to an observer in the viewing direction on the side of the base (11) facing the decorative layer.

28. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The method further comprises the following steps: h) pre-treating the surface of the base (11) and / or the surface of the at least one film (10).

29. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The method comprises the further step: i) shaping the at least one film (10) and / or the base (11).

30. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, In step d), the at least one lacquer layer (12) and / or the at least one film (10) is / are heat-aged and / or aged by high-energy radiation, the aging being carried out before and / or after the at least one film (10) is arranged on the base (11).

31. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The age hardening in step d) is carried out by means of UV radiation having a radiation dose selected from the range from 800 mJ / cm 2 to 1200 mJ / cm 2 and / or an intensity of at least 550 mW / cm 2 and / or a wavelength of from 200 nm to 280 nm.

Images