Plastic grave markers

Abstract

Plastic grave marker, comprising a molded body forming a gravestone (1) or a grave border (2) made of a two-component, UV- and weather-resistant epoxy resin system with a first component which has a first color and a second component which has a color different from the first color, wherein in the cured molded body, at least in partial areas of the visible surfaces of the plastic grave marker, color structure effects in the form of streak-like or comparable irregular patterns are formed which are formed from the differently colored components.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a plastic grave marker comprising a molded body forming a gravestone or grave border. It is particularly suitable for use in cemeteries; furthermore, it can be used in memorial sites, private memorial plots, memorial gardens, or other areas with a lasting commemorative character. Due to its design versatility, it can also be used for representative applications in public spaces, as decorative elements in landscaping, or as individual design objects with a commemorative function.

[0002] Grave markers in the form of headstones or grave borders are usually made of natural stone, concrete, or metal. These materials have long been used due to their high strength and durability. Natural stone is frequently used in the form of granite, marble, or sandstone, while concrete solutions are sometimes combined with aggregates and surface treatments to achieve a decorative appearance. Metallic grave markers, for example made of bronze, stainless steel, or aluminum, are primarily used for smaller elements such as inscription plaques or ornaments.

[0003] In addition to these traditional materials, grave markers made from polymer-bonded composite materials are also common. These include, for example, fiberglass-reinforced plastics or mineral-filled synthetic resins, which allow for weight reduction and greater design freedom. Such materials are used, among other things, to replicate the look of natural stone or to create colored surfaces.

[0004] US Patent 5,595,029 A discloses a molded tombstone made of polymer material, which can be produced as a solid body or in a filled form. The surface is textured to replicate the appearance of natural stone, particularly cut granite. The patent describes the possibility of engraving inscriptions directly onto the surface or attaching them as separate, applied elements. Concealed fastening systems are also provided to ensure secure anchoring of the tombstone in the ground or on a foundation.

[0005] DE 101 32 017 A1 discloses gravestones, grave slabs, and grave borders made from plastic granules or recyclable plastic. The components can be produced in virtually any shape, including those with figurative elements, by casting, drawing, or pressing. A moisture-resistant concrete base is used for stability, to which the plastic parts are connected via bolts. Industrial production allows for cost-effective implementation of a wide variety of shapes and colors.

[0006] While plastic grave markers are available in various designs, they often encounter reservations regarding their visual appeal. In particular, they are frequently perceived as inferior, as existing products often feature a simple, monochromatic design and lack the aesthetic appeal of high-quality natural stone. Consequently, plastic grave markers are often used for pet burials, while they are less frequently chosen for human graves. Furthermore, existing plastic designs typically offer limited design options and have shortcomings in terms of customization, surface finish, and long-term resistance to weathering and UV radiation.

[0007] The object of the invention is to provide a grave marker that has a high-quality visual appearance while simultaneously allowing for a high degree of individuality. It should enable a design that goes beyond the usual imitation of natural stone and permits diverse, distinctive appearances. The aim is to provide an individual alternative to conventional stone grave markers that meets the demands of modern grave design in both appearance and design variability, and is also suitable for permanent outdoor use.

[0008] This problem is solved by a plastic grave marker with the features according to claim 1. Advantageous further developments of the invention are listed in claims 2 to 14.

[0009] According to the invention, the plastic grave marker comprises a molded body forming a gravestone or grave border, made of a two-component, UV- and weather-resistant epoxy resin system. The molded body includes a first component, which has a first color, and a second component, which has a color different from the first. The epoxy resin system is UV- and weather-resistant, so that the cured molded body possesses the properties intended for the plastic grave marker. Preferably, the first component contains an epoxy resin and the second component a reactive hardener. Alternatively, each of the two components can contain both epoxy resin and reactive hardener.

[0010] In the cured molded body, at least in some areas of the visible surfaces of the plastic grave marker, color structure effects are present in the form of streaky or similar irregular patterns. These color structure effects are formed from the differently colored components and appear as streaky or similar irregular patterns on the aforementioned visible surfaces. Thus, the visible surfaces of the plastic grave marker exhibit these color structure effects in the specified areas, while the molded body as a whole is formed by the two-component, UV- and weather-resistant epoxy resin system.

[0011] For the purposes of the invention, "coloring of the respective component" means any color modification of one of the components of the two-component epoxy resin system, regardless of the type of dyes or pigments used. Coloring can be achieved using inorganic or organic pigments, dyes, effect particles, or mixtures thereof, and can be opaque, translucent, or transparent. The term "coloring" encompasses both monochromatic and multi-colored versions, as well as color gradients or optical effects achieved through the targeted arrangement or mixing of the coloring components. Even a near-complete lack of color (e.g., when using a clear or only slightly tinted component) constitutes coloring within the meaning of the invention, provided that it contributes to the formation of the described color structure effects in combination with the differently colored component.

[0012] By forming the molded body of the plastic grave marker according to the invention from the two-component epoxy resin system with the first and second components having different colors, color structure effects can be created in the cured state, giving the plastic grave marker an individual and high-quality visual appearance that clearly stands out from conventional, single-color plastic designs and goes beyond the mere imitation of natural stone.

[0013] The use of the two-component epoxy resin system also offers the advantage that different material properties and color appearances can be combined in a targeted manner. This enables a wide range of design possibilities, including translucent or semi-transparent areas that create a special optical depth and spatial effect. Because the color structure effects are formed directly within the material itself, the design remains permanently intact without the need for additional surface treatments or coatings.

[0014] Furthermore, the UV- and weather-resistant epoxy resin system ensures high resistance to environmental influences. The optical quality and mechanical stability of the plastic grave marker according to the invention are maintained even with long-term outdoor installation, which is particularly important for use in cemeteries or memorial sites. The construction as a single, molded body also allows for precise shaping and opens up diverse possibilities for the realization of individual designs without compromising stability or durability.

[0015] The plastic grave marker according to the invention allows for an individual design tailored to the deceased, reflecting, for example, their personal character. As an alternative to stone grave markers, the plastic grave marker is particularly well-suited as a grave marker for deceased people, but is also suitable for the burial of animals.

[0016] The production of the plastic grave marker can be achieved through methods such as molding and casting. Injection molding, vacuum casting, laminating, pressing, rotational molding, or additive manufacturing processes like 3D printing are also possible. When using a two-component epoxy resin system, the components can be mixed and placed in a mold immediately before shaping, allowing the desired color and texture effects to develop directly during the curing process. These flexible manufacturing methods offer virtually limitless possibilities for individual and unique designs, both in terms of shape and dimensions, as well as visual effects and the integration of decorative elements.

[0017] According to one design of the plastic grave marker, one of the two components is translucent. This allows the color and texture effects formed within the mold to be particularly striking, as light is permitted to enter and pass through the material. The translucency lends the plastic grave marker an optical depth and a unique visual appeal that varies depending on the lighting conditions and viewing angle. Furthermore, the translucency can offer functional advantages, for example, in the case of backlighting or the integration of lighting elements.

[0018] In particular, the translucent component can exhibit a light transmission in the range of 10% to 60% at a wavelength of 550 nm. This allows for precise control of the optical effect and brightness transmission to achieve a balanced ratio between transparency and material presence. The specified range is chosen to ensure that the color structure effects remain clearly visible while simultaneously creating a visual depth that lends the plastic grave marker a high-quality and individual appearance.

[0019] Furthermore, the color texture effects can be designed with a medium streak width ranging from 0.5 mm to 5 mm. This dimensioning of the streak width contributes to creating a harmonious yet individual appearance. Finer textures appear subtle and elegant, while wider streaks allow for a striking and expressive design. Defining this range ensures that the color texture effects have an appealing visual impact both up close and from a distance.

[0020] According to a further embodiment, the visible surface of the molded body is coated with a transparent layer of a siloxane-modified polymer, with a thickness of 10 µm to 50 µm, forming a water-repellent surface with a static water contact angle of at least 100°. This coating protects the visible surface of the plastic grave marker from soiling and facilitates cleaning, particularly when used as an anti-graffiti layer. The water-repellent finish causes rainwater or splashes to bead up and roll off easily, thus reducing the formation of deposits. At the same time, the optical quality of the color structure effects is preserved in the long term.

[0021] Following further refinement, the molded body features a modular design with an interchangeable inscription plate. This allows the inscription to be flexibly adapted or renewed without having to replace the entire molded body. This design makes it possible to adapt the plastic grave marker to changing personal preferences or new design requirements, which offers a practical advantage, especially for long-term use.

[0022] In a further refinement, the molded body is designed to accommodate lighting elements, which can also be integrated into the plastic grave marker itself. This design allows for targeted illumination of the plastic grave marker, enhancing its visibility and visual impact even in darkness. The lighting can serve decorative or symbolic purposes and contributes to a distinctive design.

[0023] In particular, the lighting elements can be designed as LED units and concealed within the molded body. This creates uniform, glare-free illumination that enhances the appearance of the plastic grave marker without the light sources themselves being visible. The concealed arrangement also protects the lighting elements from weathering and vandalism, thus extending the lifespan of the lighting.

[0024] Furthermore, the epoxy resin system can include UV stabilizers and light-resistant pigments and be designed such that, after 3000 hours of artificial weathering in the QUV-B test according to ISO 4892-3, the molded part exhibits a color change value ΔE of no more than 3.0. This design ensures that the plastic grave marker retains its optical quality for a long period, preferably over 30 years, and is not affected by fading or color changes. The high UV and weather resistance contributes significantly to its value and durability.

[0025] Following further refinement, natural products, selected from plant-based, animal-based, and / or mineral-based materials, are embedded within the molded body. This embedding allows natural materials to be integrated into the plastic grave marker, resulting in a unique and individual design that has a special visual and tactile impact.

[0026] These natural products can include, for example, grasses, moss, blossoms, leaves, seeds, wood, wool, silk, natural stone chips, sand, or shells. Using these natural materials allows for diverse design effects and can convey personal or symbolic meanings. The incorporation of such materials lends the plastic grave marker an organic and authentic character.

[0027] Following further refinement, metallic elements are embedded within the molded body. This allows for the integration of metallic accents that can offer both aesthetic and functional advantages, for example, in the form of reflective surfaces or stabilizing structures. Suitable metallic elements include metal foils, metal mesh, or metal shavings. These special metallic finishes allow for targeted visual effects such as gloss, texture, or light reflection, which can enhance the appearance of the plastic grave marker.

[0028] Further refinement allows for the integration of personal items or miniature representations of such items into the molded body, belonging to the person for whom the plastic grave marker is intended. This design enables a particularly individualized approach, creating a personal connection to the deceased and transforming the grave marker into a unique memorial.

[0029] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments and the schematic drawings, wherein identical or similar features are provided with the same reference numerals; to this end, the following are shown: Fig. 1: A first version of the plastic grave marker in perspective view, Fig. 2: a second version of the plastic grave marker in perspective view, Fig. 3: a third version of the plastic grave marker in perspective view, and Fig. 4: A fourth version of the plastic grave marker in perspective view.

[0030] The Fig. Figures 1 to 4 show different versions of the plastic grave marker, each comprising a molded body forming a gravestone 1. A grave surround 2 is also shown, which can be designed according to the invention or conventionally. In all embodiments, the molded body forming the gravestone 1 has streaky or similar irregular patterns extending across the visible surfaces and representing the characteristic color structure effects. The grave surround 2 is always located in the lower area and serves to position and secure the gravestone 1. In each figure, the inscription "RIP" is shown on the front of the gravestone 1 as an example, representing an inscription or engraving.

[0031] In Fig. The tombstone (part 1) is a teardrop-shaped form with a uniform, upward-tapering contour. Streaky patterns extend across the entire front, emphasizing the longitudinal direction of the form. The grave surround (part 2) is rectangular and rests flat on a suggested lawn area.

[0032] In Fig. 2. The form of the tomb 1 exhibits a more complex shape in the form of a rose blossom, which features an arched top with an inset decorative element. This decorative element contains a heart motif with a decorative symbol within it. On the left side of tomb 1, striking, wider, streak-like patterns are depicted. The tomb enclosure 2 is also rectangular and comparable to the one in Fig. The grave enclosure shown in 1 was executed in 2.

[0033] In Fig. 3 is the shaped body forming the tomb 1 in a form similar to that from Fig. The design is based on the first design, but with more pronounced and wider streak-like areas arranged in several distinct patterns. Additionally, irregular, contrasting shapes are depicted within the patterned areas, further emphasizing the visual structure. The grave border (2) is flatter and surrounded by a continuous layer of roughly suggested stones.

[0034] In Fig. Figure 4 shows the form of the tomb 1 in a heart shape, the upper ends of which are slightly inclined outwards. The streaky patterns run diagonally here and follow the curved contour. The tomb enclosure 2 is rectangular and more solidly constructed than in the other figures, which visually emphasizes the heart shape. Reference symbol list 1 tombstone 2 Grave edging QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 5 595 029 A

[0004] DE 101 32 017 A1

[0005]

Claims

[1] Plastic grave marker, comprising a molded body forming a grave marker (1) or a grave border (2) made of a two-component, UV and weather-resistant epoxy resin system, with a first component having a first coloration and a second component having a coloration different from the first coloration, wherein in the cured molded body at least in partial areas of the visible surfaces of the plastic grave marker color structure effects in the form of streaky or similar irregular patterns formed from the differently colored components. [2] Plastic grave marker according to claim 1, characterized by that one of the two components is transparent. [3] Plastic grave marker according to claim 2, characterized by , that the translucent component has a light transmission in the range of 10% to 60% at a wavelength of 550 nm. [4] Plastic grave markers according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by that the color structure effects exhibit a medium streak width in the range of 0.5 mm to 5 mm. [5] Plastic grave markers according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by , that the molded body is provided on its visible surface with a transparent coating of a siloxane-modified polymer, which has a layer thickness of 10 µm to 50 µm and forms a water-repellent surface with a static water contact angle of at least 100°. [6] Plastic grave markers according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by that the molded body has a modular design with an interchangeable inscription plate. [7] Plastic grave markers according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by that the molded body is designed to accommodate lighting elements. [8] Plastic grave marker according to claim 7, characterized bythat the lighting elements are designed as LED units and are concealed within the molded body. [9] Plastic grave markers according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized by , that the epoxy resin system includes UV stabilizers and light-resistant pigments and is designed so that the molded body, after artificial weathering of 3000 hours in the QUV-B test according to ISO 4892-3, has a color change value ΔE of no more than 3.

0. [10] Plastic grave markers according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized by that natural products are embedded in the molded body, selected from plant-based natural products, animal-based natural products or mineral-based natural products. [11] Plastic grave marker according to claim 10, characterized by that the natural products include grasses, moss, flowers, leaves, seeds, wood, wool, silk, natural stone chips, sand or shells. [12] Plastic grave markers according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized bythat metallic elements are embedded in the molded body. [13] Plastic grave marker according to claim 12, characterized by that the metallic elements include metal foils, metal grids or metal shavings. [14] Plastic grave markers according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized by that personal items or miniature representations of such items are embedded in the molded body, belonging to a person for whom the plastic grave marker is intended.

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