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Method and apparatus for forming a stylized, three-dimensional object

  • US 5,280,305 A
  • Filed: 10/30/1992
  • Issued: 01/18/1994
  • Est. Priority Date: 10/30/1992
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
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1. A method of creating a masquerade-type mask using an electronic device capable of generating an image and producing an electronic signal representative thereof, an image processing device, a printer, a flat, deformable, heat-settable material, a vacuum device and a die that has facial features, comprising the steps of:

  • generating the image with the electronic device;

    producing the electronic signal with the electronic device;

    processing the image with the image processing device and creating a printer control signal from the electronic signal which represents the processed image;

    using the printer to print the processed image upon the flat, deformable, heat-settable material in response to the printer control signal;

    deforming a first portion of the flat, deformable, heat-settable material upon which the processed image has been printed byaligning the first portion with the die;

    heating the first portion to a temperature at which it may be deformed;

    creating a differential pressure to opposing sides of the first portion with the vacuum device, such that the first portion is drawn in skintight conforming relation with the die;

    cooling the portion to a temperature at which it will retain the shape to which it has been deformed during removal from contact with the die; and

    removing the portion from contact with the die.

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