| abstract |
Flat textured or roughened blanks are used in injection molding processes to provide in-mold labels and similar decoration. This provides decorated article that has a desired texture, for example, that of a football or basketball, with custom graphics behind the texture. They may be configured into (preferably but not necessarily tapered) self-supporting sleeves, by joining opposite sides together at a seam or other interface. The sleeves may be used in applications such as inserts for injection molded containers, attachments to existing objects; components of containers manufactured using modified paper cup technology, or glued onto existing paper or plastic cups or containers. Other articles could be produced, such as recording media (e.g, DVD) cases, lunch boxes, food and other consumer packages, or any other type of injection blow molded or impact molded product. |