Molded article having stereoscopic decorative pattern and fabrication

Abstract

Herein disclosed is a molded article of a synthetic resin having on its smooth surface a decorative pattern which is viewable as a stereoscopic image from the outside. The molded article includes a substratum which forms the general structure of the molded article and which is molded of a material consisting essentially of a synthetic resin and an additive. The article further includes a decorative surface layer which is formed on the substratum in a manner to provide a generally smooth finish. This decorative surface layer is composed both of a decorative pattern portion figured by the flow marks inside of the trace of a relief pattern, which has once been formed during the molding process of the article, and of a ground portion. The decorative surface layer is made during the molding process integrally with and of the same material as that of the substratum. Thus, the decorative pattern portion can appear stereoscopic, although having a smooth surface, just in the form of the relief pattern as a result of the shading due to substantially radial reflection of the light incident upon the flow marks. In a modification, the molded article may have at least one covering layer which is formed by a second molding process of a similar material but has a different appearance. Then, the article thus modified has a stereoscopic decorative pattern which can enjoy multiple appearances. Also disclosed is a process for fabricating such a molded article as above.