METHOD FOR PRODUCING A PLASTIC ARTICLE

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method for producing a plastic article.

[0002] Decorative films are often used to decorate surfaces, for example, applied to a plastic article using an in-mold process. These surfaces should be visually appealing and also contain decorative elements such as symbols or lettering.

[0003] Such decorative elements are usually created on the decorative film using printing technology. However, this does result in several disadvantages. For example, both the positioning and the resolution of the decorative elements are limited by the printing process used. If plastic items decorated with individualized decorative films, or correspondingly decorated plastic items, are to be produced in small quantities, this is associated with a significant time and logistical effort and thus also with high costs, as the printing tools, such as printing plates, must be provided and set up accordingly for each individual decorative film. Alternatively, decorative elements, such as symbols or lettering, can also be created in the decorative film using laser engraving, although this is limited in terms of design options, for example color.

[0004] DE 10 2018 123473 A1 relates to a decorative film, a transfer film, the use of a transfer film, a method for producing a transfer film, a method for decorating a plastic molded part and a plastic molded part.

[0005] EP 3 815 838 A1 describes a method for producing a transparent vehicle part.

[0006] EP 2 006 119 A2 relates to a method for producing a plastic molded part from an unformed plastic film that is labeled or provided with similar markings. It also deals with a plastic molded part produced by deforming a plastic film provided with at least one color and / or cover layer.

[0007] DE 20 2019 106340 U1 relates to a plastic component which is at least partially metallized, has a translucent symbol and is intended in particular for use in a motor vehicle.

[0008] The object of this invention is to provide an improved method for producing a plastic article, in particular a translucent one.

[0009] This object is achieved by a method, in particular according to one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the method comprises the following steps, which are carried out in particular in the following order: a) Providing at least one film comprising a carrier film and at least one decorative layer, b) Forming by means of a laser at least one first region and at least one second region in the plane formed by the at least one film, in particular by the decorative layer, wherein the at least one second region has a higher transmission than the at least one first region, c) Arranging at least one lacquer layer in the at least one second region by means of digital printing, d) Curing, in particular simultaneously curing, the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, and / or the at least one lacquer layer, e) Arranging the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, on a substrate, f) Obtaining a plastic article comprising the at least one first region and the at least one second region.

[0010] In this case, the term “region” is understood to mean, in particular, a defined area of ​​a layer, film, plane or layer which, when viewed perpendicular to a plane formed by the film, in particular by the at least one decorative layer, the lacquer layer and / or the substrate.

[0011] For example, the at least one substrate has at least a first region and at least a second region, wherein each of the two or more regions occupies a defined area when viewed perpendicular to a plane formed by the substrate, in particular in all layers arranged above and / or below the substrate.

[0012] The designations "below" and / or "above" refer in particular to the arrangement of layers relative to another layer when viewed by an observer from a viewing direction. Thus, it is expedient if the designations "below" and / or "above" represent a reference system. Preferably, the viewing direction is selected such that a film and / or layer forming the visible side of the plastic article is arranged above other films and / or layers.

[0013] The invention enables an advantageous combination of transfer varnish processes, in particular hot stamping processes and / or in-mold decoration (IMD) processes, and / or lamination processes, in particular in-mold labeling (IML) processes, insert molding processes and / or print mold design (PMD) processes, with laser processes and digital printing processes.

[0014] Transfer varnish technology has the advantage that the overall thickness of the decorative layer can be made significantly thinner compared to other decoration methods, such as varnishing or direct screen printing. This also results in a smaller height difference between the decorative layer and the area where the decorative layer was removed when the decorative layer is removed using a laser.

[0015] This enables significantly simpler, more material-efficient, and waste-reduced printing of the selected area. This combination can significantly improve the CO2 footprint and thus also reduce energy costs.

[0016] Furthermore, laser technology, in direct combination with digital printing processes, offers a highly flexible and variable production platform. Since both technologies are digitally controlled, design variations such as the shape, position, and color of the second area can be individually integrated into the process. This makes it possible to use the entire color spectrum that can be realized with digital printing in this process as well. This makes multi-colored areas, for example, conceivable.

[0017] Furthermore, this invention advantageously makes it possible to create a 3D contour of the decorative layer, preferably arranged on a substrate, using forming technologies such as vacuum deep drawing or high-pressure forming. In particular, laser processing with digital printing integration can also be performed after the forming process, which further increases flexibility and further distinguishes the process according to the invention from pure transfer coating processes.

[0018] A current trend toward producing different versions of a product can be observed in many areas of industry. For example, a design may need to be designed in different countries, with different languages ​​or colors. The present invention makes it possible to respond to this trend and create the design according to specific needs. Even a personalized batch size of one is possible.

[0019] This also leads to a reduction in delivery times, but at the same time allows for greater flexibility in the face of fluctuations in product demand. Furthermore, logistics work and associated costs are significantly reduced, as variants can be created on demand in the production process rather than being kept in stock. In other words, the end customer can decide how, for example, a washing machine panel should be designed, and has an unlimited choice of colors for the symbols incorporated into the decorative layer.

[0020] Further advantageous embodiments of the invention are described in the subclaims.

[0021] It has proven advantageous that the at least one film, in particular a decorative layer, provided in step a) is preferably provided as a transfer film, in particular comprising a carrier film and a transfer layer detachable from the carrier film, or a laminating film, or is configured as such a film. In other words, it is possible for the carrier film to be removed during the process, in particular before, during, or after step e).

[0022] Preferably, the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, is a layer with components, in particular binders, individually or in combination selected from: monomers, oligomers, polymers, copolymers, preferably comprising individually or in combination selected from: polymethyl methacrylates, polyesters, polyacrylates, polycarbonates, polyamides, polyurethanes, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), phenols, isocyanate group-containing polymers, epoxy group-containing polymers, melamine-containing polymers, hydroxyl group-containing polymers, more preferably comprising polyurethanes and / or PVC.

[0023] In order to additionally achieve advantageous overprintability of the decorative layer, the decorative layer in particular has an acceptance layer which has at least one water-dispersible polymer, each of which is independently selected from the group consisting of polyurethanes, polyacrylates, polymethacrylates, polyesters, copolymers thereof and mixtures thereof, preferably selected from polyurethanes, polyurethane / polyacrylate copolymers, polyacrylates and / or polymethacrylates, polyesters and mixtures thereof, wherein the at least one water-dispersible polymer is preferably a polyurethane-containing polymer, which is preferably selected from the group consisting of polyurethanes, polyurethane / poly(meth)acrylate copolymers and mixtures thereof.

[0024] To additionally achieve sufficiently high resistance of the decorative layer to chemical and / or physical influences, the decorative layer comprises at least one protective layer, which is produced in particular on the basis of at least one UV-crosslinkable and / or chemically crosslinkable polymer. It is further possible for the at least one protective layer to further comprise at least one chemically crosslinkable polymer, which is more preferably selected from the group consisting of isocyanate-containing polymers, melamine-containing polymers, hydroxyl-containing polymers, and mixtures thereof.The at least one protective layer preferably comprises at least one chemically crosslinkable polymer combination which comprises or is a polymer and / or copolymer having at least one, preferably two or more, isocyanate group(s) and at least one polymer and / or copolymer having at least one, preferably two or more, hydroxyl group(s) and / or at least one melamine resin and at least one polymer and / or copolymer having at least one, preferably two or more, hydroxyl group(s).

[0025] It is further possible that the at least one UV-crosslinkable polymer of the at least one protective layer and / or the acceptance layer further comprises, independently of one another, at least one chemically crosslinkable functional group, wherein the chemically crosslinkable functional group is preferably selected from hydroxyl group, isocyanate group, melamine group, epoxy group and combinations thereof.

[0026] Preferably, the at least one UV-crosslinkable polymer further comprises at least one hydroxyl group.

[0027] Suitable UV-crosslinkable hydroxyl group-containing polymers are known from the prior art and include, for example, at least one diacrylate monomer, aliphatic polyetherurethane diacrylate, aliphatic polyesterurethane diacrylate, aromatic polyetherurethane diacrylate, aromatic polyesterurethane diacrylate, polyester diacrylate, polyether diacrylate, epoxy diacrylate, acrylated acrylic diacrylate, polyacrylate monomer, aliphatic polyetherurethane polyacrylate, aliphatic polyesterurethane polyacrylate, aromatic polyetherurethane polyacrylate, aromatic polyesterurethane polyacrylate, polyester polyacrylate, polyether polyacrylate, epoxy polyacrylate, acrylated acrylic polyacrylate or mixtures thereof and / or at least one hydroxy monoacrylate, hydroxy diacrylate, hydroxy polyacrylate, hydroxy-functionalized aliphatic polyetherurethane monoacrylate, hydroxy-functionalized aliphatic polyesterurethane monoacrylate, hydroxy-functionalized aromatic polyetherurethane monoacrylate,hydroxy-functionalized aromatic polyester urethane monoacrylate, hydroxy-functionalized polyester monoacrylate, hydroxy-functionalized polyether monoacrylate, hydroxy-functionalized epoxy monoacrylate, hydroxy-functionalized acrylated acrylic monoacrylate, hydroxy-functionalized aliphatic polyether urethane diacrylate, hydroxy-functionalized aliphatic polyester urethane diacrylate, hydroxy-functionalized aromatic polyether urethane diacrylate, hydroxy-functionalized aromatic polyester urethane diacrylate, hydroxy-functionalized polyester diacrylate, hydroxy-functionalized polyether diacrylate, hydroxy-functionalized epoxy diacrylate, hydroxy-functionalized acrylated acrylic diacrylate, hydroxy-functionalized aliphatic polyether urethane polyacrylate, hydroxy-functionalized aliphatic polyester urethane polyacrylate, hydroxy-functionalized aromatic polyether urethane polyacrylate, hydroxy-functionalized aromatic polyester urethane polyacrylate,hydroxy-functionalized polyester polyacrylate, hydroxy-functionalized polyether polyacrylate, hydroxy-functionalized epoxy polyacrylate, hydroxy-functionalized acrylated acrylate or mixtures thereof.

[0028] Particularly suitable melamine resins are those which are obtainable by reacting melamine with aldehydes and which can optionally be partially or completely modified.

[0029] Formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, isobutyraldehyde and glyoxal are particularly suitable as aldehydes.

[0030] Melamine-formaldehyde resins are preferably reaction products of melamine with aldehydes, for example the above-mentioned aldehydes, especially formaldehyde. The resulting methylol groups are preferably modified by etherification with mono- or polyhydric alcohols.

[0031] Furthermore, it is possible for the at least one protective layer to comprise precured systems and / or hybrid systems. In particular, it is possible for the at least one protective layer to comprise at least one UV-curable component made of UV-curable monomers and / or UV-curable oligomers or mixtures thereof, and further comprise at least one binder selected from the group consisting of polyurethanes, polyacrylates, polymethacrylates, polyester resins, polycarbonates, phenolic resins, epoxy resins, polyureas, melamine resins, preferably polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyester, polycarbonate (PC), and mixtures thereof.

[0032] It is further possible for the at least one protective layer to preferably comprise 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 certain embodiments, the at least one polyisocyanate is selected from the group consisting of diisocyanate monomer, diisocyanate oligomer, diisocyanate-terminated prepolymer, diisocyanate-terminated polymer, polyisocyanate monomer, polyisocyanate oligomer, polyisocyanate-terminated prepolymer, polyisocyanate-terminated polymer, polyisocyanate-terminated polymer, and mixtures thereof.

[0033] More preferably, the at least one polyisocyanate comprises or is at least one diisocyanate-containing component, which preferably contains at least one diisocyanate-containing polyurethane oligomer, diisocyanate-containing polyurea oligomer, prepolymers thereof, polymer thereof or mixtures thereof.

[0034] In In certain embodiments, the at least one polyisocyanate comprises or is at least one diisocyanate-containing component, which is preferably selected from the group consisting of hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI), isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI), methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI), toluene diisocyanate (TDI), phenylene diisocyanate, naphthalene diisocyanate, diphenylsulfone diisocyanate, ethylene diisocyanate, propylene diisocyanate, dimers of these diisocyanates, trimers of these diisocyanates, triphenylmethane triisocyanate, polyphenylmethane polyisocyanate (polymeric MDI) and mixtures thereof.

[0035] Furthermore, it can be advantageous if the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, has layers, in particular at least one or more of the following layers, each selected individually or in combination from: at least one color lacquer 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 acceptance layer, at least one protective lacquer layer, at least one release layer, at least one replication layer, at least one laser protective lacquer layer.

[0036] It is further advantageous if the at least one decorative layer forms the transfer layer and is removable from the carrier film.

[0037] Such a design further increases the possibilities for customization, visual appeal, and / or application possibilities. The film can also feature multi-layer color coating systems, in which one or more layers are removed by laser, revealing the underlying layer. This allows for the realization of customized designs.

[0038] Preferably, the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, has a layer thickness selected from a range of 0.1 µm to 50 µm, preferably from 0.5 µm to 35 µm, preferably from 1 µm to 5 µm.

[0039] Furthermore, the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, can have a metallization, in particular with a layer thickness of 1 nm to 20 µm, preferably 5 nm to 15 µm. The metallization is preferably formed from metals and / or metal combinations and / or alloys, selected individually or in combination from: aluminum, copper, cobalt, gold, indium, iron, chromium, nickel, silver, platinum, palladium, titanium.

[0040] It is possible that in step e), the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, is and / or will be arranged over the entire surface of the substrate. This makes the optical properties of the finished product independent of the optical properties of the substrate, thus increasing the design possibilities of the finished product.

[0041] Alternatively, in step e), the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, can be or be arranged only in certain regions on the substrate, wherein in particular the substrate is visible to an observer, in particular in the direction of view of the side of the substrate facing the decorative layer. For example, the decorative layer can be or be not arranged in edge regions or regions in the center of the substrate. This is advantageous if these regions are not visible in the finished product and / or it is desired that the optical properties of the substrate remain recognizable. It is also possible for other layers or layer packages to be arranged on the substrate in the regions in which the decorative layer is not arranged. It is also possible for no layers to be arranged on the substrate in the regions in which the decorative layer is not arranged, i.e. the substrate is uncoated in these regions.

[0042] It is particularly advantageous if the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, is opaque and / or if the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, has a transmission, i.e. a permeability for electromagnetic waves, in particular in the wavelength range from 380 nm to 780 nm, of a maximum of 50%, preferably of a maximum of 20%, more preferably of a maximum of 5%.

[0043] This ensures that the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, creates a visually dark impression, in particular, wherein the optical impression provides a dark-appearing background with regard to possible backlighting. This allows a particularly high contrast between the backlighting and this background to be achieved, and the backlighting can be sufficiently well perceived even at low backlighting light intensities.

[0044] The transmission is determined in particular with a spectrophotometer, for example type U-2000, Hitachi Ltd. Corp., Japan, preferably in a wavelength range between 380 nm and 780 nm.

[0045] It is possible that in step e) the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, is arranged using a transfer lacquer process, in particular a hot stamping process, and / or an IMD process, and / or using a lamination process, in particular an IML process, an insert molding process and / or a PMD process.

[0046] Furthermore, it is possible that the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, is arranged on the substrate in such a way that the decorative layer faces a viewer.

[0047] It is also possible for the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, to be and / or be arranged on the side of the substrate facing away from the viewer. This makes it possible for the substrate to protect the decorative layer from external, in particular physical and / or chemical, influences and / or stresses.

[0048] It is thus possible that the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, is arranged below and / or above the substrate.

[0049] Preferably, the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, is arranged on the substrate in such a way that it is firmly connected to the substrate.

[0050] The term “firmly connected” is preferably understood to mean a permanent connection between two elements, so that they can no longer be mechanically separated without damaging at least one of the elements.

[0051] InIn step b), the film, in particular the decorative layer, is irradiated by a laser such that at least a first and a second region are formed, wherein the at least second region has a higher transmission. It is particularly advantageous if, in step b), the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, is and / or is removed, preferably completely, in the at least one second region.

[0052] It is also possible for the at least one second region to be formed such that at least one of the layers of the decorative layer is removed. In particular, it is possible for the at least one second region to be formed such that at least one of the layers of the decorative layer, preferably at least one colored lacquer layer, is not removed, preferably not completely removed, in the at least one second region. Thus, it is possible for at least one colored lacquer layer to be arranged in the at least one second region, particularly after step b).

[0053] Removing a layer here refers to the partial and / or complete removal of a layer, in particular by means of laser cutting and / or laser ablation. For example, if a layer is removed in one area, the corresponding layer in that area has been partially and / or completely removed. The removal is preferably carried out by means of laser cutting and / or laser ablation.

[0054] Partially removed is preferably understood to mean that the partially removed layer is altered or destroyed in such a way that it no longer fulfills its predetermined properties. For example, a partially removed protective lacquer layer no longer fulfills its predetermined property of protecting underlying layers from chemical, physical, and / or mechanical environmental influences.

[0055] Completely removed is preferably understood here to mean that the completely removed layers in the corresponding regions are removed and / or ablated and / or incinerated and / or vaporized without leaving any residue. For example, if the at least one decorative layer in the at least one second region is completely removed, in particular by laser cutting and / or laser ablation, the at least one decorative layer in the at least one second region is removed without leaving any residue.

[0056] Advantageously, the difference in transmission between the at least one first region and the at least one second region of the plastic article according to step f) is preferably at least 5%, preferably at least 10%, particularly preferably at least 25%, in particular in the wavelength range from 380 nm to 780 nm. Preferably, the at least one second region in the plastic article has a higher transmission than the at least one first region. This ensures that sufficient contrast is present in transmitted light, resulting in a sharp and easily recognizable decoration.

[0057] In particular, at least one second region is and / or is designed in the form of a symbol, a geometric figure, a pattern, an alphanumeric character, and / or a logo, or includes these. These shapes can also be combined with abstract graphic design elements. The design of the at least one second region can have a purely decorative function, but preferably also be functional and, for example, mark display or operating elements of a device, such as status indicators, control surfaces, or the like.

[0058] It is further preferred if the at least one second region, when viewed perpendicular to the at least one film, in particular decorative layer, has a line thickness of at least 50 µm, preferably of at least 100 µm, and / or if the at least one second region, when viewed perpendicular to the at least one film, in particular decorative layer, has a line thickness of at most 2 mm, preferably of at most 1 mm, more preferably of at most 0.5 mm.

[0059] The minimum line width is determined by the resolution and perception of the human eye. With possible backlighting or transmitted light, even extremely fine lines are still visible.

[0060] Advantageously, in step c), the at least one lacquer layer is arranged in contact with the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, and / or on the side of the substrate facing away from the film, in particular the decorative layer. For example, the at least one lacquer layer can be arranged in the region of the film, in particular the decorative layer, in which it was removed, in particular completely removed, by laser irradiation in step b).

[0061] It is possible that in at least one second region, in particular if in at least one second region at least one of the layers of the decorative layer is removed and / or at least one of the layers of the decorative layer, preferably at least one colored lacquer layer, is not removed, preferably not completely removed, the lacquer layer overlaps at least one of the layers of the decorative layer, preferably at least one colored lacquer layer, partially or completely.

[0062] In other words, the at least one lacquer layer can be arranged above and / or below the substrate, preferably on one of the surfaces of the substrate.

[0063] Arranging the at least one resist layer above the substrate has the particular advantage that the optical properties of the resist can appear particularly brilliant. Arranging the at least one resist layer below the substrate makes it easier to print on several adjacent second regions, for example, compared to arranging the at least one resist layer above the substrate. This means that only lower tolerances need to be maintained because, when viewed on the plane spanned by the substrate, the second regions act like optical masks and mask, i.e. optically conceal, the visible edges of the at least one resist layer. This can also reduce the amount of scrap.

[0064] Preferably, the at least one lacquer layer comprises components that are curable by exposure to thermal and / or high-energy radiation, preferably UV radiation, in particular with a wavelength in the range from 200 nm to 280 nm. The at least one lacquer layer is expediently composed of components, in particular binders, individually or in combination, selected from: polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polymethyl methacrylates, polyesters, polyacrylates, polycarbonates, polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyamides, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS), phenols, polymers containing isocyanate groups, polymers containing epoxy groups, polymers containing melamine groups, and polymers containing hydroxyl groups.

[0065] It is also possible for the at least one lacquer layer to be colored, in particular for the at least one lacquer layer to be colored using dyes and / or color pigments. The degree of pigmentation of the at least one lacquer layer is preferably less than 15%, preferably less than 10%, more preferably less than 5%. This makes it possible, in particular, for the at least one lacquer layer, in conjunction with backlighting means arranged beneath the lacquer layer, to create a specific optical impression, such as, for example, a colored translucent impression when using a white light source as the backlighting means.

[0066] However, it is also possible for the at least one lacquer layer to be colorless and / or clear and / or transparent, and / or for the pigmentation level of the lacquer layer to be 0%. In this case, the resulting color impression is determined, for example, by a backlighting means arranged beneath the lacquer layer and its light color.

[0067] Advantageously, the at least one second region and / or the at least one lacquer layer is transparent and / or the at least one second region and / or the at least one lacquer layer have a transmission, in particular in the wavelength range from 380 nm to 780 nm, of at least 5%, preferably of at least 25%, more preferably of at least 75%.

[0068] InIn at least one second region, the at least one lacquer layer can be arranged as a single layer. Furthermore, it is possible for the at least one lacquer layer to be formed from two or more partial layers, in particular wherein the partial layers have the same chemical and physical properties. In particular, by arranging partial layers, the quality of the application can be improved on substrates that, for example, do not have a homogeneous structure and / or other properties.

[0069] Furthermore, it is possible that the at least one lacquer layer is and / or is arranged in multiple layers, in particular that the at least one lacquer layer is and / or is formed from two or more partial layers, wherein the two or more partial layers are preferably each arranged with a layer thickness in the range from 0.1 µm to 50 µm, more preferably from 0.5 µm to 5.0 µm.

[0070] Furthermore, it is useful if the two or more sub-layers have different colors, especially from the RGB color space or the CMYK color space.

[0071] Color, chromaticity, or individual color or individual chromaticity refers to a color location within a color space. The color space can be, in particular, the CIELAB color space. The color space can also be the RGB color space (R = red; G = green; B = blue) or the CMYK color space (C = cyan; M = magenta; Y = yellow; K = black), or color spaces such as RAL, HKS, or the Pantone® color space.

[0072] A different or differing color is understood to be a color difference dE between two color locations in a color space. The color space can, in particular, be the CIELAB color space. A different color that is sufficiently perceptible to the human eye has a color difference dE in the CIELAB color space of at least 2, preferably at least 3, particularly preferably at least 5, and further preferably at least 10.

[0073] The color location, especially in the CIELAB color space, is usually determined with a colorimeter, for example a "Datacolor 650" spectrophotometer.

[0074] The value of dE (or Delta E or ΔE) between the color coordinates (L*,a*,b*) p and (L*,a*,b*) v is calculated as the Euclidean distance: dE p , v = L p ∗ − L v ∗ 2 + a p ∗ − a v ∗ 2 + b p ∗ − b v ∗ 2

[0075] The brightness value L* is perpendicular to the color plane (a*, b*). The a coordinate indicates the chromaticity and color intensity between green and red, and the b coordinate indicates the chromaticity and color 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, the hue is achromatic on the brightness axis. Typically, L* can take values ​​between 0 and 100, and a and b can vary between -128 and +127.

[0076] Furthermore, it is conceivable that one of the colors of the partial layers of the at least one lacquer layer is and / or is arranged in regions, in particular that one of the colors is present in at least a first partial region and is not present in at least a second partial region and / or that the partial layers are and / or are arranged in a grid, in particular selected from: frequency-modulated grid, amplitude-modulated grid, random grid, pseudo-random grid.

[0077] It is also possible that in step c) at least two different lacquer layers are arranged in at least one of the second regions, wherein the at least two lacquer layers differ in particular in their optical properties, such as color and / or optical density and / or transmission.

[0078] The above embodiments offer the advantage that, if the plastic article is backlit, single-coloured but also multi-coloured patterns and / or motifs can be produced with only one backlighting means.

[0079] However, it is also possible that no lacquer layer is arranged and / or is present in at least one of the second regions. The substrate thus preferably forms the layer facing the viewer in this region. In this case, for example, when the plastic article is backlit, the optical properties of the substrate and / or a backlighting agent are visible.

[0080] It is further possible that the optical density of at least a second region and / or at least one lacquer layer, in particular in the case of a surface completely covered with a single color tone, and / or of a partial region of at least a second region, is selected from a range of 0.5 to 3, preferably from 0.8 to 2.5.

[0081] The optical density (OD) values ​​are measured, for example, with a densitometer "designation" from [X-Rite GmbH], [82152 Planegg-Martinsried], Germany. When measuring the optical density, a precisely defined, directed white light beam is directed, for example, onto the surface of a colored lacquer layer applied to a substrate. The measuring light beam penetrates the colored lacquer layer and is reflected at the interface between the colored lacquer layer and the substrate. The reflected light penetrates the colored lacquer layer again and is detected by a photoelement, generating an electrical signal proportional to the light intensity. When penetrating the colored lacquer layer twice, the originally white measuring light is colored and attenuated, particularly through absorption. This results in the remission value (R), which is preferably calibrated to R = 1 (= 100%) using a standard.The highest achievable remission value is therefore preferably R = 1. The measured remission value is therefore preferably a value from a range of 0 to 1, wherein the remission values ​​in particular represent unitless values.

[0082] The optical density (OD) can then be calculated from the reflectance value (R) using the following equation: OD = Ig(1 / R)

[0083] According to the above equation, high reflectance values ​​result in low optical density values, and vice versa. The optical density of the substrate with a preferred reflectance value of R = 1 is preferably OD = 0. With an increase in the amount of ink applied, preferably the layer thickness or degree of pigmentation, the reflectance decreases and the optical density increases.

[0084] In particular, instead of reflectance, the transmittance of a colored coating can also be used to calculate the optical density. The functional relationship between transmittance (T) in percent (%) and optical density (OD) is formulated as follows: OD = lg(100 / T[%]).

[0085] The at least one lacquer layer can be and / or be arranged essentially only in the at least second region and not in the at least one first region. Alternatively, it is also possible for the at least one lacquer layer arranged in at least one of the second regions in step c) to be arranged in a manner that partially overlaps the at least one first region, in particular if the at least one lacquer layer, when viewed from the visible surface of the plastic article, is arranged below the substrate or below the side of the substrate and / or the film, in particular the decorative layer, facing away from an observer.

[0086] In other words, the at least one lacquer layer can be and / or be arranged, in particular, in the first regions in contact with the edge regions of the at least one second region, wherein in each of the printed areas at least one second region is preferably arranged in the center.

[0087] This is particularly helpful when several second regions are located close to one another, so that the application of the lacquer layer can be accelerated by applying the at least one lacquer layer evenly across the second regions. Another advantage is that smaller tolerances need to be maintained when applying the lacquer layer in this way. This is because the second region introduced into the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, with the laser acts like a mask.

[0088] It is also possible for a primer to be and / or be present in the at least one second region before the at least one lacquer layer is applied. In particular, the primer is arranged between the substrate and / or the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, and the at least one lacquer layer.

[0089] The primer preferably has a transmittance, particularly in the wavelength range from 380 nm to 780 nm, of at least 10%, preferably of at least 25%, more preferably of at least 75%, even more preferably of at least 90%. It is also possible for the primer to be colored, preferably white, in particular for the primer to be colored using dyes and / or color pigments. The degree of pigmentation of the primer is preferably less than 15%, preferably less than 10%, more preferably less than 5%.

[0090] However, it is also possible that the primer is colorless and / or clear transparent and / or that the pigmentation level of the primer is 0%.

[0091] Preferably, the primer is arranged with a layer thickness selected from the range of 0.1 µm to 10 µm, preferably from 0.3 µm to 5 µm, or has this layer thickness.

[0092] A primer improves the adhesion of the at least one lacquer layer to the substrate to be printed and / or compensates for unevenness and / or improves the color quality and color brilliance of the at least one lacquer layer.

[0093] It is possible that at least one lacquer layer is arranged in register and / or registration accuracy.

[0094] Register, or register accuracy, or register precision refers to the positioning accuracy of two or more elements, films, planes, areas, and / or layers relative to each other. The register accuracy should be within a specified tolerance and as small as possible. At the same time, the register accuracy of multiple elements, films, planes, areas, and / or layers relative to each other is an important feature for increasing process reliability.

[0095] Precise positioning can be achieved, in particular, by means of sensor-based, preferably optically detectable, fiducials or register marks, optical sensor units, preferably cameras, stencils, masks, and / or mechanical stops. In particular, fiducials or register marks can either represent specific separate elements, regions, or layers, or they can themselves be part of the elements, regions, or layers to be positioned.

[0096] The at least one lacquer layer, which is arranged such that it is arranged above the substrate on the side of the plastic article facing the viewer and / or is at least partially in contact with the at least one decorative layer, is preferably arranged with a tolerance to a target position of at most ±0.7 mm, preferably of at most ±0.5 mm, more preferably of at most ±0.3 mm, or has a above-mentioned tolerance to a target position. The at least one lacquer layer, which is arranged on the side of the substrate facing away from the at least one decorative layer, is preferably arranged with a tolerance to a target position of at most ±5 mm, preferably of at most ±1 mm, more preferably of at most ±0.5 mm and / or has a above-mentioned tolerance to a target position.

[0097] It is possible for the at least one lacquer layer to be applied inline and / or downstream in step c). In other words, the process steps can be performed directly one after the other and / or the application of the at least one lacquer layer can take place only after the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, has been temporarily stored, transported, and / or removed from the device provided for the process.

[0098] Advantageously, to carry out the method for arranging the at least one lacquer layer, a lacquer is used which has a surface energy during step c) preferably selected from a range of 15 mN / m to 45 mN / m, preferably from 20 mN / m to 35 mN / m.

[0099] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the surface energy of the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, and / or the substrate during step c) is selected from a range of 30 mN / m to 50 mN / m, preferably from 30 mN / m to 45 mN / m.

[0100] Preferably, in step c) the difference between the surface tension of the lacquer of the at least one lacquer layer and the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, and / or the substrate is at least one value selected from a range of ±5 mN / m to ±100 mN / m, preferably from ±10 mN / m to ±70 mN / m and at most one value selected from a range of ±15 mN / m to ±50 mN / m, preferably from ±20 mN / m to ±35 mN / m.

[0101] Preferably, the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, and / or the substrate during step c) has a greater surface energy compared to the lacquer of the at least one lacquer layer to be applied.

[0102] Surface energy is the minimum energy required to break the molecular bonds on the surfaces of liquids and / or solids. In other words, surface energy is the force required to increase the surface area of ​​a liquid and / or solid.

[0103] If the varnish, the at least one film, and / or the substrate exhibit the above-mentioned surface energy values, it can be ensured that the varnish sufficiently wets the at least one film and / or the substrate, but that the varnish droplets do not completely flow or even spread. The varnish droplets thus adhere to the printed surface with a defined geometry without running. This enables a particularly high level of detail during printing.

[0104] Preferably, in the at least one second region, the at least one lacquer layer is arranged with a layer thickness selected from a range of 2 µm to 36 µm, preferably from 4 µm to 18 µm, preferably from 5 µm to 12 µm.

[0105] The substrate is preferably single-layer or multi-layered and made of thermoplastic materials, selected individually or in combination from PC, PET, PMMA, PEN, PA, and ABS. The thermoplastic nature of these materials allows for easy forming.

[0106] Advantageously, the substrate is transparent or semi-transparent and / or the substrate has a transmission, in particular in the wavelength range from 380 nm to 780 nm, of at least 10%, preferably of at least 25%, more preferably of at least 75%, even more preferably of at least 90%.

[0107] As a result, the substrate can be transilluminated, in particular by means of a backlighting means, and / or the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, is visible when it is applied below the substrate in the viewing direction.

[0108] The above configuration of the substrate is also advantageous if the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, is and / or will be arranged on the side of the substrate facing away from the viewer, since in this case the decorative layer is on the one hand protected from external, in particular chemical and / or physical stresses and on the other hand is still perceived by the viewer.

[0109] The substrate preferably has a layer thickness selected from a range of 0.25 mm to 20 mm, in particular from 1 mm to 5 mm. This ensures the production of a thin and possibly flexible plastic article.

[0110] Advantageously, the at least one laser used during the process in step b) and / or present in the device is preferably selected from: solid-state laser, preferably fiber laser, YAG laser, UV laser, ruby ​​laser and / or sapphire laser, diode laser, gas laser and / or dye laser.

[0111] It is also advantageous that the at least one laser preferably emits coherent light from the infrared range, in particular from the near infrared range, more preferably from the wavelength range of 200 nm to 1400 nm, preferably from 780 nm to 1200 nm, more preferably light with a wavelength of 1064 nm. Alternatively, a laser can also be used that emits light in particular from the UV range, more preferably with a wavelength of 340 nm to 400 nm, more preferably light with a wavelength of 355 nm. Furthermore, the laser can be operated continuously or in a pulsed mode.

[0112] It is also possible that in step b) the at least one laser with a beam diameter at the focal point of at least 30 µm, preferably at least 50 µm, preferably at least 100 µm, is used.

[0113] It is also possible to focus the laser beam by means of at least one lens, in particular with a focal length in a range from 100 mm to 500 mm, preferably from 150 mm to 300 mm, more preferably from 163 mm or 254 mm.

[0114] It is expedient if, in step b), the laser beam is directed along the at least one second region by means of deflectable mirrors, in particular by means of a laser scanning module.

[0115] The laser beam can in particular be controlled with a tolerance to a target position of at most ±0.5 mm, preferably of at most ±0.3 mm, more preferably of at most ±0.1 mm, or the second region thus produced by laser has a tolerance to a target position of at most ±0.5 mm, preferably of at most ±0.3 mm, more preferably of at most ±0.1 mm.

[0116] Preferably, the at least one laser has a power selected from a range of 0.05 W to 100 W, preferably from 1 W to 50 W, more preferably from 5 W to 20 W. In particular, the at least one laser is operated at a maximum writing speed of 10,000 mm / s, preferably at a writing speed selected from a range of 500 m / s to 2500 mm / s.

[0117] Furthermore, the at least one laser is operated in particular with a pulse frequency selected from a range of 1 Hz to 1000 kHz, preferably from 25 kHz to 400 kHz, and / or the at least one laser is operated at up to 3000 characters / s, preferably selected from a range of 800 characters / s to 1500 characters / s. The required intensity of the laser beam depends on the type and thickness of the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, as well as the speed at which the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, is to be removed.

[0118] It is also possible that the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, is overprintable and that the method further comprises the following step, in particular which is carried out before step d) and / or before and / or after step c): g) printing the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, by means of digital printing, in particular with a primer and / or with at least one lacquer layer, preferably comprising a haptic lacquer, wherein at least one third region is formed and wherein the at least one third region does not overlap with the at least one second region.

[0119] This allows the design possibilities of a product manufactured using this process to be increased even further.

[0120] Preferably, the listed design variants of the at least one second area can be used for the design of the at least one third area, in particular with regard to the printing methods and / or printing parameters and / or printing device.

[0121] Alternatively or additionally, the at least one third region can be opaque and / or have a remission, in particular in the wavelength range from 380 nm to 780 nm, of a maximum of 0.5, preferably a maximum of 0.2, more preferably a maximum of 0.05.

[0122] For example, using the same print head offers the advantage that step g) can be performed inline and without additional costs for additional printing devices. Alternatively, step g) can also be performed downstream. In particular, it is advantageous to arrange the at least one third region where no backlighting means are applied. Preferably, the at least one first region and the at least one third region overlap at least partially and / or completely.

[0123] Preferably, in step c) and / or step g), one of the following digital printing methods is used, in particular for arranging the at least one lacquer layer: inkjet, in particular continuous inkjet and / or piezoelectric inkjet and / or thermoelectric inkjet (bubble jet), and / or thermal printing.

[0124] Preferably, in step c) and / or step g), the size of a single droplet during the application of the at least one lacquer layer by printing is selected from a range of 2 pl to 50 pl, preferably from 2.5 pl to 30 pl. Furthermore, it is also possible for 2 to 10 drops, preferably 3 to 7 drops, to be combined during the arrangement.

[0125] It is also preferred that the dynamic viscosity of the varnish of the at least one varnish layer during the printing process is selected from a range of 3 mPas to 100 mPas, preferably from 4 mPas to 80 mPas, preferably from 5 mPas to 50 mPas.

[0126] The printhead resolution is preferably between 300 npi and 1200 npi (nozzles per inch, npi = nozzles per inch). This determines the print resolution transverse to the feed direction of the substrate and / or the printhead. The resolution along the feed direction of the substrate and / or the printhead is determined by the accuracy of this feed by correspondingly precisely controlled drives and is preferably between 300 dpi and 4800 dpi.

[0127] Furthermore, it is possible for the method to further comprise the following step, in particular which is carried out before step c) and / or step g): h) pretreatment of the surface of the substrate and / or of the at least one film, in particular of the decorative layer, in particular by means of one or more of the following methods: corona treatment, flame treatment, cleaning, plasma treatment.

[0128] This achieves better adhesion of the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, or the at least one lacquer layer to the substrate and enables higher manufacturing quality.

[0129] It is also possible that the method comprises the following further step, which is carried out in particular before and / or after step b) and / or step c): i) Forming the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, and / or the substrate, preferably by means of vacuum or high pressure or deep-drawing tools.

[0130] In particular, conventional deep-drawing processes can be used here. As a rule, the at least one film, in particular decorative layer, and / or the substrate is provided as a sheet and inserted into a deep-drawing tool which has the desired final contour. By applying heat, preferably a temperature of 80°C to 200°C, the at least one film, in particular decorative layer, and / or the substrate is made deformable. The at least one film, in particular decorative layer, and / or the substrate can then be adapted to the shape of the deep-drawing tool by applying a vacuum and / or by applying a forming die and / or excess air pressure, and thus brought into the desired final contour. Upon cooling, the material of the film, in particular decorative layer, and / or the substrate then hardens again so that they retain the final contour.

[0131] After deep drawing, mechanical post-processing may be carried out if necessary, for example by trimming, preferably mechanically or by means of laser, milling, punching or the like.

[0132] In particular, in step d), the lacquer layer and / or the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, is cured thermally and / or by high-energy radiation, preferably UV radiation. In particular, the curing takes place before and / or after the arrangement of the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, on the substrate. For this purpose, the device preferably comprises at least one UV lamp, in particular a mercury vapor lamp and / or UV-LED lamp, and / or at least one IR heating element.

[0133] Preferably, the curing in step d) is carried out by means of UV radiation with a radiation dose selected from the range of 800 mJ / cm 2< to 1200 mJ / cm 2< and / or an intensity of at least 550 mW / cm 2< and / or at a wavelength in the range of 200 nm to 280 nm. In particular, the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, and / or the substrate has a different surface energy after step d) than it has during step c).

[0134] Of course, depending on the area of ​​use of the plastic article, it is particularly conceivable to place it in an injection mold in a further process step or a further process and to back-inject it with a plastic injection molding compound. Furthermore, it is possible to attach at least one functional element, in particular a backlighting device, in particular comprising organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), inorganic light-emitting diodes (LEDs), microLEDs (mLEDs) and / or quantum dot light-emitting diodes (QLEDs), and / or a touch-sensitive sensor (touch sensor) and / or further functional components such as control electronics and / or mechanical and / or electrically conductive connecting components and / or electromagnetic shielding and / or thermal shielding and / or optical shielding, before and / or after this. The functional element can be firmly connected to the plastic article, in particular by gluing or lamination.The functional element is preferably mounted on the side of the plastic article facing away from the viewer. Furthermore, the functional element can additionally or alternatively comprise electrical wires and / or electrical / electronic components.

[0135] The plastic article is, in particular, translucent and is used in particular with a display and / or a touch field and / or a panel. In particular, one of the following areas is particularly suitable for the use of the plastic article: white goods, motor vehicles, aviation, ships, household appliances, telecommunications equipment, consumer goods, and / or electronics.

[0136] It may be advantageous for the device if it also has supply rolls for providing the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, and / or the substrate, conveying devices for the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, and / or the substrate, a roller arrangement for arranging, for example, adhesion promoters, a peeling unit for peeling a carrier film from at least a partial area of ​​the transfer layer, a forming device, a device for pretreating the surface of the substrate and / or the film, in particular the decorative layer, a device for mechanically post-processing the plastic article and the like, which is necessary in particular for carrying out the method described above.

[0137] Of course, the above-mentioned material characteristics can also be applied equivalently in a process or the above-mentioned process characteristics can be applied in the product.

[0138] The invention is explained below using several exemplary embodiments with the aid of the accompanying drawings. The exemplary embodiments shown are therefore not to be understood as limiting. Fig. 1 shows a schematic sectional view of a plastic article. Fig. 2 shows a schematic sectional view of a plastic article. Fig. 3 shows a schematic sectional view of a plastic article. Fig. 4 shows a schematic sectional view of a plastic article.

[0139] Figure 1shows a schematic sectional view of a plastic article 1. The plastic article 1 comprises at least one film 10, in particular a decorative layer, and a substrate 11, and has at least one first region 21 and at least one second region 22. In the viewing direction 20 of an observer, the plastic article 1 has the at least one film 10, in particular a decorative layer, in the at least one first region 21 and at least one lacquer 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.

[0140] The plastic article 1 in Figure 1comprising the at least one first region 21 and the at least one second region 22 is obtained by a method, wherein in a preferred first step of the method (step a)) a film 10 comprising a carrier film and at least one decorative layer is provided. In a step b), the at least one first region 21 and the at least one second region 22 are introduced by means of a laser into the plane formed by the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer. Furthermore, in a step c), at least one lacquer layer 12 is arranged in at least one second region by means of digital printing. A further step, step d), of the manufacturing method is the curing, in particular the simultaneous curing, of the at least one film 10, in particular the decorative layer, and / or the at least one lacquer layer 12. Furthermore, the at least one film 10, in particular the decorative layer, is arranged on the substrate in a step e).In particular, it is possible to carry out the procedure in the above order or in a different order.

[0141] Preferably, the method for producing the plastic article is carried out in a device comprising at least one laser and at least one digital print head.

[0142] It has proven advantageous that in step a), the at least one provided film 11, in particular the decorative layer, is preferably provided as a transfer film, in particular comprising a carrier film and a transfer layer detachable from the carrier film, or a laminating film, or is configured as such a film. It is possible for the carrier film to be removed during the process, in particular before, during, or after step e).

[0143] Preferably, the at least one film 11, in particular the decorative layer, is a layer with components, in particular binders, individually or in combination selected from: monomers, oligomers, polymers, copolymers, preferably comprising individually or in combination selected from: polymethyl methacrylates, polyesters, polycarbonates, polyamides, polyurethanes, PVC, phenols, isocyanate group-containing polymers, epoxy group-containing polymers, melamine-containing polymers, hydroxyl group-containing polymers, more preferably comprising polyurethanes and / or PVC.

[0144] It may further be advantageous if the at least one film 11, in particular the decorative layer, comprises layers, in particular at least one or more of the following layers, each selected individually or in combination from: at least one colored lacquer 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 acceptance layer, at least one protective lacquer layer, at least one release layer, at least one replication layer, at least one laser protective lacquer layer. It is further advantageous if the at least one decorative layer forms the transfer layer and is removable from the carrier film.

[0145] Preferably, the at least one film 11, in particular the decorative layer, has a layer thickness selected from a range of 0.1 µm to 50 µm, preferably from 0.5 µm to 35 µm, preferably from 1 µm to 5 µm.

[0146] Furthermore, the at least one film 11, in particular the decorative layer, can have a metallization, in particular with a layer thickness of 1 nm to 20 µm, preferably 5 nm to 15 µm. The metallization is preferably formed from metals and / or metal combinations and / or alloys, selected individually or in combination from: aluminum, copper, cobalt, gold, indium, iron, chromium, nickel, silver, platinum, palladium, titanium.

[0147] In the in Fig. 1 In the plastic article 1 shown, the at least one film 11, in particular the decorative layer, is and / or is arranged over the entire surface of the substrate 12. Alternatively, the at least one film 11, in particular the decorative layer, can be arranged only in certain regions, wherein in particular the substrate 12 is visible to a viewer, in particular in the direction of view of the side of the substrate 12 facing the decorative layer.

[0148] It is particularly advantageous if the at least one film 11, in particular the decorative layer, is opaque and / or if the at least one film 11, in particular the decorative layer, has a transmission, in particular in the wavelength range from 380 nm to 780 nm, of a maximum of 50%, preferably of a maximum of 20%, more preferably of a maximum of 5%.

[0149] It is possible that in step e) the at least one film 11, in particular the decorative layer, is arranged using a transfer lacquer process, in particular a hot stamping process, and / or an IMD process, and / or using a lamination process, in particular an IML process, an insert molding process and / or a PMD process.

[0150] Furthermore, in the Figure 1 In the plastic article 1 shown, the at least one film 11, in particular the decorative layer, is arranged on the substrate 12 in such a way that the decorative layer 11 faces the viewer.

[0151] Preferably, the at least one film 11, in particular the decorative layer, is arranged on the substrate 12 in such a way that it is firmly connected to the substrate 12, so that they can no longer be mechanically separated without damaging at least one of the elements.

[0152] In step b), the film, in particular the decorative layer, is irradiated by a laser such that at least a first and a second region are formed, wherein the at least second region has a higher transmission. It is particularly advantageous if, in step b), the at least one film 11, in particular the decorative layer, is and / or is removed, preferably completely, in the at least one second region 22.

[0153] It is also possible for the at least one second region 22 to be formed such that at least one of the layers of the decorative layer is removed. In particular, it is possible for the at least one second region 22 to be formed such that at least one of the layers of the decorative layer, preferably at least one colored lacquer layer, is not removed, preferably not completely removed, in the at least one second region 22. Thus, it is possible for at least one colored lacquer layer to be arranged in the second region 22, particularly after step b).

[0154] Advantageously, the difference in transmission 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%, particularly preferably at least 25%, in particular in the wavelength range from 380 nm to 780 nm. Preferably, the at least one second region in the plastic article has a higher transmission than the at least one first region.

[0155] In particular, at least one second region 22 is and / or is designed in the form of a symbol, a geometric figure, a pattern, an alphanumeric character, and / or a logo, or comprises these. These shapes can also be combined with abstract graphic design elements. The design of the at least one second region 22 can have a purely decorative function, but can preferably also be functional and, for example, mark display or operating elements of a device, such as status indicators, control surfaces, or the like.

[0156] It is further preferred if the at least one second region 22, when viewed perpendicular to the at least one film 10, in particular decorative layer, has a line thickness of at least 50 µm, preferably of at least 100 µm, and / or if the at least one second region 22, when viewed perpendicular to the at least one film 10, in particular decorative layer, has a line thickness of at most 2 mm, preferably of at most 1 mm, more preferably of at most 0.5 mm.

[0157] Advantageously, in step c), the at least one lacquer layer 12 is arranged in contact with the at least one film 10, in particular the decorative layer, and / or on the side of the substrate 11 facing away from the film 10, in particular the decorative layer.

[0158] In other words, the plastic article in Figure 1The at least one lacquer layer 12 is arranged above the substrate 11, preferably on one of the surfaces of the substrate 11, as viewed in the direction 20. Furthermore, the at least one lacquer layer is arranged in the region in which the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, was removed, in particular completely removed, by laser irradiation in step b).

[0159] It is possible that in at least one second region 22, in particular if in at least one second region 22 at least one of the layers of the decorative layer is removed and / or at least one of the layers of the decorative layer, preferably at least one colored lacquer layer, is not removed, preferably not completely removed, the lacquer layer 12 overlaps at least one of the layers of the decorative layer, preferably at least one colored lacquer layer, partially or completely.

[0160] Preferably, the at least one lacquer layer 12 comprises components that can be cured by exposure to thermal and / or high-energy radiation, preferably UV radiation, in particular with a wavelength in the range of 200 nm to 280 nm. Advantageously, the plastic article 1 according to Figure 1 the at least one lacquer layer 12 is formed from components, in particular binders, individually or in combination selected from: polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polymethyl methacrylates, polyesters, polyacrylates, polycarbonates, polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyamides, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS), phenols, polymers containing isocyanate groups, polymers containing epoxy groups, polymers containing melamine groups, polymers containing hydroxyl groups.

[0161] It is also possible for the at least one lacquer layer 12 to be colored, in particular for the at least one lacquer layer 12 to be colored using dyes and / or color pigments. The degree of pigmentation of the at least one lacquer layer is preferably less than 15%, preferably less than 10%, more preferably less than 5%.

[0162] However, it is also possible for the at least one lacquer layer 12 to be colorless and / or clear and / or transparent, and / or for the pigmentation level of the lacquer layer to be 0%. In this case, the color impression is determined, for example, by a backlighting means arranged beneath the lacquer layer.

[0163] Advantageously, the at least one second region 22 and / or the at least one lacquer layer 12 is transparent and / or the at least second region 22 and / or the at least one lacquer layer 12 have a transmission, in particular in the wavelength range from 380 nm to 780 nm, of at least 5%, preferably of at least 25%, more preferably of at least 75%, even more preferably of at least 90%.

[0164] In the at least one second region 22, the at least one lacquer layer 12 can be arranged as a single layer. Furthermore, it is possible for the at least one lacquer layer 12 to be formed from two or more partial layers, in particular wherein the partial layers have the same chemical and physical properties.

[0165] Furthermore, it is possible that the at least one lacquer layer is and / or is arranged in multiple layers, in particular that the at least one lacquer layer is and / or is formed from two or more partial layers, wherein the two or more first partial layers are preferably each arranged with a layer thickness in the range of 0.1 µm and 50 µm, more preferably of 0.5 µm and 5.0 µm.

[0166] Furthermore, it is useful if the two or more sub-layers have different colors, especially from the RGB color space or the CMYK color space.

[0167] Furthermore, it is conceivable that one of the colors of the partial layers of the at least one lacquer layer is and / or is arranged in regions, in particular that one of the colors is present in at least a first partial region and is not present in at least a second partial region and / or that the partial layers are and / or are arranged in a grid, in particular selected from: frequency-modulated grid, amplitude-modulated grid, random grid, pseudo-random grid.

[0168] It is also possible that in step c) at least two different lacquer layers are introduced into at least one of the second regions, wherein the at least two lacquer layers differ in particular in their optical properties, such as color and / or optical density and / or transmission.

[0169] In other words, the at least one lacquer layer 12 and / or the at least one second region 22 can be arranged and / or designed in a single color and / or in multiple colors.

[0170] It is further possible that the optical density of at least a second region 22 and / or at least one lacquer layer, in particular in the case of a surface completely covered with a single color tone, and / or of a partial region of at least a second region 22, is selected from a range of 0.5 to 3, preferably from 0.8 to 2.5.

[0171] Essentially, the at least one lacquer layer is and / or is preferably arranged only in the second region 22, but not in the first region 21.

[0172] It is possible that the at least one lacquer layer 12 in Figure 1 is arranged in register and / or registration accuracy.

[0173] Precise positioning can be achieved, in particular, by means of sensor-based, preferably optically detectable, fiducials or register marks, optical sensor units, preferably cameras, stencils, masks, and / or mechanical stops. In particular, fiducials or register marks can either represent specific separate elements, regions, or layers, or they can themselves be part of the elements, regions, or layers to be positioned.

[0174] The at least one lacquer layer 12, which is arranged such that it is arranged on the side of the plastic article 1 facing the viewer above the substrate 11 and / or is at least partially in contact with the at least one decorative layer 12, is preferably arranged with a tolerance to a desired position of at most ±0.7 mm, preferably of at most ±0.5 mm, more preferably of at most ±0.3 mm, or has the above tolerance to a desired position.

[0175] It is possible for the at least one lacquer layer 12 to be applied inline and / or downstream in step c). In other words, the process steps can be performed directly one after the other and / or the application of the at least one lacquer layer 12 can only take place after the at least one film 10, in particular a decorative layer, provided with the at least second region 22, has been temporarily stored, transported, and / or removed from the device provided for the process.

[0176] To carry out the method for arranging the lacquer layer 12, a lacquer is advantageously used which has a surface energy during step c) preferably selected from a range of 15 mN / m to 45 mN / m, preferably from 20 mN / m to 35 mN / m. Furthermore, it is advantageous if the surface energy of the at least one film 10, in particular the decorative layer, and / or the substrate 11 during step c) is selected from a range of 30 mN / m to 50 mN / m, preferably from 30 mN / m to 45 mN / m.

[0177] Preferably, the difference between the surface tension of the lacquer of the at least one lacquer layer and the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, and / or the substrate is at least one value selected from a range of ±5 mN / m to ±100 mN / m, preferably from ±10 mN / m to ±70 mN / m and at most one value selected from a range of ±15 mN / m to ±50 mN / m, preferably from ±20 mN / m to ±35 mN / m. Preferably, the at least one film, in particular the decorative layer, and / or the substrate has a greater surface energy during step c) than the lacquer of the at least one lacquer layer to be applied.

[0178] Preferably, in the at least one second region 22, the at least one lacquer layer 12 is arranged with a layer thickness selected from a range of 2 µm to 36 µm, preferably from 4 µm to 18 µm, preferably from 5 µm to 12 µm.

[0179] In particular, it would be Figure 1It is also conceivable that, alternatively or additionally, no lacquer layer 12 is arranged and / or is present in at least one second region 22, so that the substrate 11 forms the uppermost layer in this region in the viewing direction 20.

[0180] Preferably, the substrate 11 is formed of a single layer or multiple layers of thermoplastic materials, selected individually or in combination from PC, PET, PMMA, PEN, PA, ABS.

[0181] Advantageously, the substrate 11 is transparent or semi-transparent and / or the substrate 11 has a transmission, in particular in the wavelength range from 380 nm to 780 nm, of at least 10%, preferably of at least 25%, more preferably of at least 75%, even more preferably of at least 90%.

[0182] Furthermore, it is possible for the method to further comprise the following step, in particular which is carried out before step c) and / or step g): h) Pretreatment of the surface of the substrate 11 and / or of the at least one film 10, in particular of the decorative layer, in particular by means of one or more of the following methods: corona treatment, flame treatment, cleaning, plasma treatment.

[0183] Preferably, the substrate 11 has a layer thickness selected from a range of 0.25 mm to 20 mm, in particular from 1 mm to 5 mm.

[0184] Advantageously, the at least one laser used during the process in step b) and / or present in the device is preferably selected from: solid-state laser, preferably fiber laser, YAG laser, UV laser, ruby ​​laser and / or sapphire laser, diode laser, gas laser and / or dye laser.

[0185] It is also advantageous that the at least one laser preferably emits coherent light from the infrared range, in particular from the near infrared range, more preferably from the wavelength range of 200 nm to 1400 nm, preferably from 780 nm to 1200 nm, more preferably light with a wavelength of 1064 nm. Alternatively, a laser can also be used that emits, in particular, coherent light from the UV range, more preferably with a wavelength of 340 nm to 400 nm, more preferably light with a wavelength of 355 nm. Furthermore, the laser can be operated continuously or in a pulsed mode.

[0186] It is also possible that in step b) the at least one laser with a beam diameter at the focal point of at least 30 µm, preferably at least 50 µm, preferably at least 100 µm, is used.

[0187] It is also possible to focus the laser beam by means of at least one lens, in particular with a focal length in a range from 100 mm to 500 mm, preferably from 150 mm to 300 mm, more preferably from 163 mm or 254 mm.

[0188] It is expedient if, in step b), the laser beam is directed along the at least one second region 22 by means of deflectable mirrors, in particular by means of a laser scanning module.

[0189] The laser beam can in particular be controlled with a tolerance to a target position of at most ±0.5 mm, preferably of at most ±0.3 mm, more preferably of at most ±0.1 mm, or the second region 22 thus produced by laser has a tolerance to a target position of at most ±0.5 mm, preferably of at most ±0.3 mm, more preferably of at most ±0.1 mm.

[0190] Preferably, the at least one laser has a power selected from a range of 0.05 W to 100 W, preferably from 1 W to 50 W, more preferably from 5 W to 20 W. In particular, the at least one laser is operated at a maximum writing speed of 10,000 mm / s, preferably at a writing speed selected from a range of 500 m / s to 2500 mm / s.

[0191] Furthermore, the at least one laser is operated in particular with a pulse frequency selected from a range of 1 Hz to 1000 kHz, preferably from 25 kHz to 400 kHz, and / or the at least one laser is operated at up to 3000 characters / s, preferably selected from a range of 800 characters / s to 1500 characters / s. The required intensity of the laser beam depends on the type and thickness of the at least one film 10, in particular the decorative layer, as well as the speed at which the at least one film 10, in particular the decorative layer, is to be removed.

[0192] Preferably, in step c) one of the following digital printing methods is used, in particular for arranging the at least one lacquer layer 12: inkjet, in particular continuous inkjet and / or piezoelectric inkjet and / or thermoelectric inkjet (bubblejet), and / or thermal printing.

[0193] For the production of the plastic article 1 according to Figure 1 In step c), the size of a single droplet during the arrangement of the at least one lacquer layer 12 by printing is selected from a range of 2 pl to 50 pl, preferably from 2.5 pl to 30 pl. Furthermore, it is also possible for 2 to 10 drops, preferably 3 to 7 drops, to be combined during the arrangement.

[0194] It is also preferred that in step c) the dynamic viscosity of the varnish of the at least one varnish layer 12 during the printing process is selected from a range of 3 mPas to 100 mPas, preferably from 4 mPas to 80 mPas, preferably from 5 mPas to 50 mPas.

[0195] The resolution of the print head in step c) is preferably between 300 and 1200 npi (nozzles per inch). This determines the print resolution transverse to a feed direction of the substrate and / or the print head. The resolution along the feed direction of the substrate and / or the print head is determined by the accuracy of this feed by correspondingly precisely controlled drives and is preferably between 300 dpi and 4800 dpi.

[0196] It is also possible that the method comprises the following further step, which is carried out in particular before and / or after step b) and / or step c): i) forming the at least one film 10, in particular the decorative layer, and / or the substrate (11), preferably by means of vacuum or high pressure or deep-drawing tools.

[0197] In particular, conventional deep-drawing processes can be used here. As a rule, the at least one film 10, in particular decorative layer, and / or the substrate 12 is provided as a sheet and inserted into a deep-drawing tool which has the desired final contour. By applying heat, preferably a temperature of 80°C to 200°C, the at least one film 10, in particular decorative layer, and / or the substrate 11 is made deformable. The at least one film 10, in particular the decorative layer, and / or the substrate can then be adapted to the shape of the deep-drawing tool by applying a vacuum and / or by applying a forming die and / or excess air pressure, and thus brought into the desired final contour. Upon cooling, the material of the film 10, in particular the decorative layer, and / or the substrate 11 then hardens again, so that they retain the final contour.

[0198] After deep drawing, mechanical post-processing may be carried out if necessary, for example by trimming, preferably mechanically or by means of laser or milling or punching or the like.

[0199] In particular, in step d), the lacquer layer 12 and / or the at least one film 10, in particular the decorative layer, is cured thermally and / or by high-energy radiation, preferably UV radiation. In particular, the curing takes place before and / or after the arrangement of the at least one film 10, in particular the decorative layer, on the substrate 11. For this purpose, the device preferably comprises at least one UV lamp, in particular a mercury vapor lamp and / or UV-LED lamp, and / or at least one IR heating element.

[0200] Preferably, the curing in step d) is carried out by means of UV radiation with a radiation dose selected from the range of 800 mJ / cm 2 to 1200 mJ / cm 2 and / or an intensity of at least 550 mW / cm 2 and / or at a wavelength in the range of 200 nm to 280 nm. In particular, the at least one film 10, in particular the decorative layer, and / or the substrate 11 has a different surface energy after step d) than it has during step c).

[0201] Of course, depending on the field of use of the plastic article 1, it is particularly conceivable to place it in an injection mold in a further process step or a further process and to back-inject it with a plastic injection molding compound. Furthermore, it is possible to attach at least one functional element, in particular a backlighting device 30, in particular comprising organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), inorganic light-emitting diodes (LEDs), microLEDs (mLEDs) and / or quantum dot light-emitting diodes (QLEDs), and / or a touch-sensitive sensor (touch sensor) and / or further functional components such as control electronics and / or mechanical and / or electrically conductive connecting components and / or electromagnetic shielding and / or thermal shielding and / or optical shielding, before and / or after this. The functional element can be firmly connected to the plastic article 1, in particular by gluing or lamination.The functional element is preferably mounted on the side of the plastic article 1 facing away from the viewing direction 20. Furthermore, the functional element may additionally or alternatively comprise electrical lines and / or electrical / electronic components.

[0202] The plastic article 1 in Figure 1 For example, it can be used with a display and / or with a touch panel and / or with a panel. In particular, one of the following areas has been shown to be suitable for the use of the plastic article 1: white goods, motor vehicles, aviation, ships, household appliances, telecommunications equipment, consumer goods, and / or electronics.

[0203] It may be advantageous for the device if it also has supply rolls for providing the at least one film 10, in particular the decorative layer, and / or the substrate 11, conveying devices for the at least one film 10, in particular the decorative layer, and / or the substrate, a roller arrangement for arranging, for example, adhesion promoters, a peeling unit for peeling a carrier film from at least a partial area of ​​the transfer layer, a forming device, a device for pretreating the surface of the substrate 11 and / or the film 10, in particular the decorative layer, a device for mechanically post-processing the plastic article 1 and the like, which is necessary in particular for carrying out the method described above.

[0204] Figure 2 shows a schematic sectional view of another plastic article 1. The plastic article 1 in Figure 2is essentially based on the structure of the plastic article 1 and the method for producing the plastic article 1 according to Figure 1 .

[0205] The plastic article 1 in Figure 2 a substrate 11 and at least one film 10, in particular a decorative layer. In the viewing direction 20 onto the plane formed by the substrate 11, the plastic article 1 also comprises at least one first region 21 and at least one second region 21. The plastic article 1 is also transilluminable, in particular transilluminable with a backlighting device 30.

[0206] Furthermore, the method for producing the plastic article 1 can be carried out in the same device as for producing the plastic article 1 in Figure 1 be performed.

[0207] The main difference to the plastic article 1 according to Figure 1is that the at least one lacquer layer 12 is arranged on the opposite side of the substrate 11 in the viewing direction 20. In other words, the at least one lacquer layer 12 is arranged below the substrate 11 in the viewing direction 20.

[0208] Furthermore, the at least one lacquer layer 12 arranged in at least one second region 22 can be arranged substantially only in at least one second region 22 and not in the adjacent first regions 21. It is also possible that the at least one lacquer layer 12 arranged in at least one second region 22 is and / or is arranged in step c) in a region-wise overlapping manner with at least one of the first regions 21.

[0209] The at least one lacquer layer 12, which is arranged on the side of the substrate 11 facing away from the at least one film 10, in particular the decorative layer, is preferably arranged with a tolerance to a desired position of at most ±5 mm, preferably of at most ±1 mm, more preferably of at most ±0.3 mm, and / or has a tolerance to a desired position. Compared to printing above the substrate, lower tolerances can be maintained because the second regions act like masks when viewed from above.

[0210] In Figure 3 a schematic sectional view of another plastic article 1 is shown. The plastic article 1 in Figure 3 is essentially based on the structure of the plastic article 1 and the method for producing the plastic article 1 according to Figure 1 and / or Figure 2 .

[0211] Also the plastic article 1 in Figure 3comprises a substrate 11 and at least one film 10, in particular a decorative layer. Furthermore, the plastic article 1 also comprises at least one first region 21 and at least one second region 22 in the viewing direction 20 onto the plane formed by the substrate 11 and is transilluminable, in particular transilluminable with a backlighting device 30.

[0212] The method for producing the plastic article 1 can be carried out in the same device as the method for producing the plastic article 1 according to Figure 1 be performed.

[0213] The plastic article 1 according to Figure 3 differs essentially from the plastic articles 1 according to Figure 1 and / or Figure 2that the at least one film 10, in particular the decorative layer, and the lacquer layer 12 arranged at least in the second regions 22 are applied below the substrate 11 in the viewing direction. In this case, the at least one lacquer layer 12 can be arranged essentially only in at least one second region 22 and / or can be arranged overlapping with at least one first region 21.

[0214] Figure 4 shows a schematic sectional view of a plastic article 1. The plastic article 1 can preferably be produced by means of the Figure 1 , 2 or 3 described method and / or device. The method and / or device described in Figure 4 The plastic article 1 shown is based in particular on the previously presented plastic article 1 according to Figure 1It also comprises a substrate 11 and at least one film 10, in particular a decorative layer, arranged above the substrate 11 in the viewing direction 20. In the viewing direction 20 onto 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 a laser. At least one lacquer layer 12 is and / or is arranged in the at least one second region 22.

[0215] It is also possible for a primer 13 to be arranged in at least one second region 22 before the at least one lacquer layer 12 is applied. In particular, the primer 13 is arranged between the substrate 11 and / or the at least one film 10, in particular the decorative layer, and the at least one lacquer layer 12.

[0216] The primer 13 preferably has a transmittance, in particular in the wavelength range from 380 nm to 780 nm, of at least 10%, preferably of at least 25%, more preferably of at least 75%, even more preferably of at least 90%. It is also possible for the primer 13 to be colored, preferably white, in particular for the primer 13 to be colored using dyes and / or color pigments. The degree of pigmentation of the primer 13 is preferably less than 15%, preferably less than 10%, more preferably less than 5%.

[0217] However, it is also possible that the primer 13 is colorless and / or clear transparent and / or that the pigmentation level of the primer 13 is 0%.

[0218] Preferably, the primer 13 is arranged with a layer thickness selected from a range of 0.1 µm to 10 µm, preferably from 0.3 µm to 5 µm.

[0219] Furthermore, the at least one film 10, in particular the decorative layer, is overprintable and the method for producing a plastic article according to Figure 3 further comprises the following step, in particular which is carried out before step d) and / or before and / or after step c): g) printing the at least one film 10, in particular the decorative layer, by means of digital printing, in particular with a primer 13 and / or with at least one lacquer layer 12, preferably comprising a haptic lacquer, wherein at least one third region 23 is formed and wherein the at least one third region 23 does not overlap with the at least one second region 22.

[0220] Preferably, for the design of the at least one third area 23 in Figure 4the above-mentioned design variants of the at least one second region 22 can be used, in particular with regard to the printing methods and / or the printing parameters and / or the printing devices.

[0221] Alternatively or additionally, the at least one third region 23 can be opaque and / or have a remission, in particular in the wavelength range from 380 nm to 780 nm, of a maximum of 0.5, preferably a maximum of 0.2, more preferably a maximum of 0.05.

[0222] For example, the same print head can be used to arrange the at least one third region 23 as is used to arrange the at least one second region 22. This allows the printing in step g) to be carried out inline, in particular. Alternatively, step g) can also be carried out downstream. In particular, it is advantageous to arrange the at least one third region 23 where no backlighting means 30 are applied. Preferably, the at least one first region 21 and the at least one third region 23 overlap at least partially and / or completely.

[0223] Of course, the listed embodiments, in particular with regard to the first, second and third areas and / or the process steps or their sequences, can be combined with each other as desired and do not represent any limitation. (List of reference symbols)

[0224] 1Plastic article 10Foil, decorative layer 11Substrate 12Paint layer 13Primer 14Paint layer 20Viewing direction 21First area 22Second area 23Third area 30Backlighting agent

Claims

1. Method for producing a plastic item (1), which comprises the following steps, which are carried out in particular in the following order: 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 the plane formed by the at least one film (10), in particular by the decorative layer, by means of a laser, wherein the at least one second region (22) has a higher degree of transmission than the at least first region (21), c) arranging at least one lacquer layer (12) in the at least one second region (22) by means of a digital print, d) curing, in particular simultaneously curing, the at least one film (10), in particular the decorative layer, and / or the at least one lacquer layer (12), e) arranging the at least one film (10), in particular the decorative layer, on a substrate (11), f) receiving a plastic item (1) comprising the at least one first region (21) and the at least one second region (22).

2. Method according to claim 1, characterised in that in step a) the at least one film (10) is provided as a transfer film or laminating film.

3. Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that in step b) the at least one film (10), in particular decorative layer, in which at least one second region (22) is removed, is preferably completely removed, and / or in step b) the at least one laser is operated with a maximum writing speed of 10,000 mm / s, preferably with a writing speed selected from the range of 500 m / s to 2500 mm / s, and / or the at least one laser is operated with a pulse frequency selected from the range from 1 Hz to 1000 kHz, preferably between 25 kHz and 400 kHz, with up to 3000 characters, preferably in the range from 800 characters to 1500 characters, and / or at least one second region (22) is designed in the shape of a symbol, a geometric figure, a pattern, an alphanumerical sign and / or a logo or comprises this, and / or the at least one laser is operated continuously or pulsed.

4. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that a foundation (13) is arranged in at least one second region (22) in particular before step c), before the at least one lacquer layer (12) is arranged.

5. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the method comprises a further following step, in particular which is carried out before step d) and / or before and / or after step c): g) printing the at least one film (10), in particular the decorative layer, by means of digital printing, in particular having a foundation (13) and / or having at least one lacquer layer (12), preferably comprising a tactile lacquer, wherein at least one third region (23) is formed and wherein the at least one third region (23) does not overlap with the at least one second region (22), and / or step c) and / or step g) is carried out inline and / or connected downstream.

6. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that in step c) one of the following digital printing methods is used: Inkjet, in particular continuous Inkjet and / or piezoelectric Inkjet and / or thermoelectric Inkjet (Bubble-jet) and / or thermal printing, and / or in step c) the at least one lacquer layer (12) is arranged in contact with the at least one film (10), in particular the decorative layer, and / or is arranged on the side of the substrate (11) facing away from the film (10), in particular the decorative layer, and / or in step c) the at least one lacquer layer (12) is arranged at least partially overlapping with the at least one first region (21), and / or in step c) at least two different lacquer layers (12) are applied in at least one second region (22), wherein the at least two lacquer layers (12) differ, in particular in their visual properties.

7. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that a lacquer layer (12) is not arranged in the at least one second region (22), and / or the at least one lacquer layer (12) is arranged in at least one second region (22) having a layer thickness selected from a range from 2 µm to 36 µm, preferably 4 µm to 18 µm, preferably 5 µm to 12 µm.

8. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that at least one lacquer layer (12) is designed as a single-layer in at least one second region (22) or the at least one lacquer layer (12) is formed from two or more partial layers, in particular wherein the partial layers have the same chemical and physical properties, in particular wherein the two or more partial layers of at least one lacquer layer (12) have different colours, in particular from the RGB colour space or the CMYK colour space, and / or one of the colours of the partial layers of at least one lacquer layer (12) is partially arranged, in particular one of the colours is present in at least one first partial region and is not present in at least one second partial region and / or the partial layers are arranged in a grid, in particular selected from: frequency modulated grid, amplitude modulated grid, random grid, pseudo-random grid.

9. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the at least one lacquer layer (12) is arranged with register accuracy and / or with precision, in particular by means of sensory, preferably visually detectable registration marks or register marks, visual sensor units, preferably cameras, stencils, masks and / or mechanical stops, and / or the at least one lacquer layer (12) is arranged in such a way that it is arranged on the side of the plastic item (1), facing towards the observer, above the substrate (12) and / or is at least partially in contact with the at least one film (10), in particular the decorative layer, is preferably arranged with a tolerance to a target position of at most ±0.7 mm, preferably at most ±0.5 mm, more preferably of at most ±0.3 mm, and / or the at least one lacquer layer (12), which is arranged on the side of the substrate (11) facing away from the at least one film (10), in particular the decorative layer, is preferably arranged with a tolerance to a target position of at most ±5 mm, preferably at most ±1 mm, more preferably at most ±0.5 mm.

10. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the optical density of at least one second region (22) and / or at least one lacquer layer (12), in particular with a completely covered surface, covered with a single colour tone, and / or a partial region of at least one second region (22), is selected from a range from 0.5 to 3, preferably from 0.8 to 2.5.

11. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that in step c) a lacquer is used which has a surface energy preferably selected from a range from 15 mN / m to 45 mN / m, preferably from 20 mN / m to 35 mN / m, and / or the surface energy of the at least one film (10), in particular the decorative layer, and / or the substrate (11), is selected from a range of 30 mN / m to 50 mN / m, preferably from 30 mN / m to 45 mN / m.

12. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that in step c) and / or step g) the size of a single droplet when arranging the at least one lacquer layer (12) by means of printing is selected from a range from 2 pl to 50 pl, preferably from 2.5 pl to 30 pl and / or that 2 to 10 droplets, preferably 3 to 7 droplets are combined when arranged, and / or in step c) and / or step g) the dynamic viscosity of the lacquer of the at least one lacquer layer (12) during the printing process is selected from a range from 3 mPas to 100 mPas, preferably from 4 mPas to 80 mPas, preferably from 5 mPas to 50 mPas, and / or in step c) and / or step g) the resolution of a droplet is between 300 dpi and 1200 dpi.

13. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that in step e) the at least one film (1), in particular the decorative layer, is arranged completely on the substrate (11), and / or in step e) the at least one film (10), in particular the decorative layer, is arranged with a transfer lacquer method, in particular a hot stamping method and / or an IMD method, and / or with a laminating method, in particular an IML method, an insert moulding method and / or PMD method. and / or in step e), the at least one film (10), in particular the decorative layer, is partially arranged on the substrate (11), wherein in particular the substrate (11) is visible for an observer, preferably in the viewing direction towards the side of the substrate (11) facing towards the decorative layer.

14. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the method comprises a further following step, in particular which is carried out before step c) and / or step g): h) pre-treatment of the surface of the substrate (11) and / or the at least one film (10), in particular the decorative layer, in particular by means of one or more of the following methods: corona discharge treatment, flame treatment, cleaning, plasma treatment, and / or the method comprises the further step, which in particular is carried out before and / or after step b) and / or step c): i) forming the at least one film (10), in particular the decorative layer and / or the substrate (11), preferably by means of vacuum or high-pressure or deep drawing tools.

15. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that in step d) the at least one lacquer layer (12) and / or the at least one film (10), in particular the decorative layer, is cured thermally and / or by high-energy radiation, preferably UV radiation, in particular wherein the curing takes place before and / or after the arrangement of the at least one film (10), in particular the decorative layer, on the substrate (11), and / or the curing in step d) takes place by means of UV radiation with a radiation dose selected from the range from 800 mJ / cm2 to 1200 mJ / cm2 and / or an intensity of at least 550 mW / cm2 and / or with a wavelength of 200 nm to 280 nm.