Process and Apparatus for Embossing Precise Microstructures in Rigid Thermoplastic Panels

摘要

A process and apparatus for embossing relatively rigid polymeric panels having precise microstructured surfaces on at least one face of the panel including using a continuous press having upper and lower belts; providing tools with the embossing pattern(s); feeding the tools and panels juxtaposed thereon through the press where heat and pressure are applied to form the em bossed precise microstructured surface and cooling the embossed panel, all while maintaining pressure on the panel and the tool, and thereafter separating the embossed polymeric panel from the tool.

主权项

1. A process for continuously forming relatively rigid polymeric panels each having precision microstructured surfaces on at least one side thereon, comprising the steps of:
providing a continuous double band press having upper and lower primary bands; providing at least one tool separate from said bands, said tool being provided with a tool surface having the inverse topography of the precision microstructured surface to be formed on the panel; juxtaposing a rigid polymeric panel on the microstructured surface of said tool; feeding said tool with said panel thereon through said press and between said bands; heating said tool and at least one side of said panel to the polymer embossing temperature Te; applying sufficient pressure to said tool and said panel to cause the precise engagement of said heated polymer and said tool with said belts; applying pressure to said heated tool and panel through said belts and said tool surface to emboss the material with said precise microstructured pattern; cooling said embossed panel while maintaining pressure thereon and while said panel is moving through said press; andremoving said formed panel from said tool after they exit from said press.