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Abstract

A method of preparing a molded article by means of an in-mold decoration process, is described. The method includes, providing a laminate (4) of a plurality of separate releasable thermoplastic labels (14) superposed over a carrier film (26). A decoration (86) is applied in-line to the exposed second surface (68) of the labels (14), thereby forming a decorated laminate (5). The decorated laminate (5) is forwarded and indexed into a mold (20) such that the exposed first surface (77) of the carrier film (26) abuts at least a portion of the interior surface of the mold, and the decorated second surface (68) of the label (14) faces the interior space of the mold. Plastic material (e.g., thermoplastic material) is injected into the mold against the decorated surface of the label, thus forming a molded article. The carrier film (26) is then separated from the molded article. At least a portion of the surface of the molded article prepared in accordance with the present method is defined by the first surface (71) of at least one label. Molded articles that may be prepared according to the present method include identification cards, such as driver's licenses and animal tags (e.g., cattle tags), and lenses, such as tinted ophthalmic lenses and sunshade lenses.

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First Claim