ORTHOPEDIC KNEE BRACES HAVING SUBLIMATED GRAPHICS

摘要

A method for sublimating graphics onto a three-dimensional object, such as an orthopedic brace (20), includes pre-treating the device if needed. The device may require a coating (44) that is able to receive sublimated inks and capture those inks. Sublimation papers (52) are cut to the appropriate size, placed on the device with re-positional adhesive, and wrapped around the device. Shrink tubing (54) and clamps (60) may also be used to ensure continuous contact between the sublimation paper (52) and the device during sublimation. After the sublimation paper (52) has been placed against the desired surfaces of the device, the paper (52) and the device are heated to sublimate the inks into the device. After the device and paper (52) are heated and allowed to cool, the sublimation paper (52) is removed with a lubricant or solvent. Orthopedic devices and other three-dimensional objects having a complexity in their geometric profile can therefore be provided with sophisticated graphics. The user of the orthopedic device can select the graphics to appear on the orthopedic device and even may provide the graphics in the form of a drawing, photograph, or file.