Thelamco, Inc.

Brian Lee McFall

James Paul Lorence

Diana L Cole

Thomas J Driscoll

This invention relates to a lamination comprising: a substrate having a first side and a second side; a thermally responsive coating layer overlying said first side of said substrate, said thermally responsive coating layer being capable of forming an image when heat is selectively applied to said thermally responsive coating layer; a light transmissive protective layer overlying said thermally responsive coating layer, said light transmissive protective layer having an image receiving surface and being capable of transmitting heat applied thereto to said thermally responsive coating layer; and an adhesive layer positioned between said light transmissive protective layer and said thermally responsive coating layer. In one embodiment, the lamination further comprises another light transmissive protective layer positioned between the thermally responsive coating layer and the adhesive layer. In one embodiment, the lamination further comprises an ink or graphics layer adhered to the image receiving surface of the light transmissive protective layer. In one embodiment, the lamination further comprises a friction reducing coating layer overlying the light transmissive protective layer. In one embodiment, the lamination further comprises a layer of a pressure sensitive adhesive overlying the second side of the substrate. In one embodiment, the lamination further comprises a release liner overlying the foregoing layer of pressure sensitive. The lamination has dual image receiving capability and provides protection against one or more of excessive moisture, chemicals, abrasions or ultraviolet light. A process for making the foregoing lamination is disclosed.

Lamination and method for forming an information displaying label

A lamination and method provide for an information displaying label with dual image receiving capabilities. The laminate includes a substrate with a thermally responsive coating in adhesive engagement with an overlying light transmissive protective layer. The thermally responsive coating is adapted to receive an information image upon the selective application of heat at a first temperature. The adhesive layer, which is non-reactive with the coating, bonds the coating and the protective layer together when heated to a second temperature lower than the first temperature. The adhesive layer provides a permanent and stable bond and may include ultraviolet inhibitors. The protective layer permits the transfer of heat to the underlying coating and provides an image receiving surface for additional label printing. The protective layer also protects the coating from environmental elements such as heat, moisture, chemicals and abrasions.

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St. Joseph, MI, United States of America

Brian Lee McFall