RETROREFLECTIVE TAPE

Abstract

The purpose of the present invention is to provide a retroreflective tape having superior flexibility, retroreflective properties, and cleaning durability, as well as making possible clear formation of a boundary between a retroreflective region and a non-retroreflective region. Provided is a retroreflective tape in which a retroreflective region is provided on part of a base material layer, wherein: the retroreflective region is a region having a fixing resin layer, transparent microspheres embedded in the fixing resin layer, and a reflective layer provided between the transparent microspheres and the fixing resin layer and formed from a metal film; the index of refraction of the transparent microspheres is 1.6-2.5; and the transparent microspheres are embedded in the fixing resin layer such that the exposure ratio is 53-70%.

Claims

1. A retroreflective tape comprising a retroreflective region partially provided on a base layer, wherein the retroreflective region is a region having a fixing resin layer, a transparent microsphere embedded in the fixing resin layer, and a reflective layer formed of a metal film provided between the transparent microsphere and the fixing resin layer, the transparent microsphere has a refractive index of 1.6 to 2.5, and the transparent microsphere is embedded in the fixing resin layer with an exposure ratio of 53 to 70%.

2. The retroreflective tape according to claim 1, wherein the base layer is a support base provided on the side of the fixing resin layer where the transparent microsphere is not embedded, and an incident light side of the transparent microsphere is exposed on a surface.

3. The retroreflective tape according to claim 1, wherein the base layer is a releasable release base comprising a laminate comprising a thermoplastic film stacked on a base film, and the thermoplastic film embeds a region of the transparent microsphere exposed from the fixing resin layer.

4. The retroreflective tape according to claim 1, wherein a non-retroreflective region without the retroreflective region is in communication in a longitudinal direction and/or a width direction of the retroreflective tape, and the retroreflective region is partitioned into a plurality of regions by the non-retroreflective region to form a design pattern.

5. The retroreflective tape according to claim 1, wherein the non-retroreflective region without the retroreflective region does not form a linear region extending parallel to the width direction of the retroreflective tape.

6. The retroreflective tape according to claim 1, wherein the non-retroreflective region without the retroreflective region forms a plurality of linear regions extending in two or more different directions.

7. The retroreflective tape according to claim 6, wherein the plurality of linear regions extending in the two or more different directions intersect with each other to form an intersection.

8. The retroreflective tape according to claim 1, which is used by being attached to or sewn on an adherend.

9. The retroreflective tape according to claim 1, which is used for attachment to clothing.

10. Use of the retroreflective tape according to claim 1 as a member to be attached to or sewn on an adherend.

11. Use of the retroreflective tape according to claim 1 as a member to be attached to clothing.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a cross-sectional structure of a retroreflective tape of the present invention.

[0042] FIG. 2 is an example of a pattern formed by arrangement of a retroreflective region and a non-retroreflective region in the retroreflective tape of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 3 is an example of the pattern formed by arrangement of the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region in the retroreflective tape of the present invention.

EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0044] A retroreflective tape of the present invention has a retroreflective region partially provided on a base and a non-retroreflective region without the retroreflective region. In this retroreflective tape, the retroreflective region includes a fixing resin layer, a reflective layer, and transparent microspheres stacked in order, and the transparent microspheres have a specific refractive index and are embedded in the fixing resin layer with a specific exposure ratio. Hereinafter, the structure and constituent materials of the retroreflective material of the present invention will be described.

[0045] In this document, in the retroreflective tape, the side on which light is incident may be sometimes referred to as incident light side, and the side opposite to the side on which light is incident may be sometimes referred to as non-incident light side.

Layer Structure

[0046] The retroreflective tape of the present invention has a retroreflective region 2 and a non-retroreflective region 3 on a base layer 1.

[0047] In the retroreflective tape of the present invention, the base layer 1 is a base material used for forming a tape shape and is included in both the retroreflective region 2 and the non-retroreflective region 3. As the base layer 1, there may be provided at least one of a support base 11 provided on the side of a fixing resin layer 21 where transparent microspheres 23 are not embedded and a release base 12 provided on the incident light side of the transparent microspheres 23. When the support base 11 is provided as the base layer 1, the support base 11 is adhered to the non-incident light side of the fixing resin layer 21 and plays a role of holding the fixing resin layer 21 without being peeled off even during use. When the release base 12 is provided as the base layer 1, the release base 12 is provided on the incident light side of the transparent microspheres 23 and is peeled off during use.

[0048] In the retroreflective tape of the present invention, the retroreflective region 2 is partially provided on the base layer 1. In the retroreflective region 2, the fixing resin layer 21, a reflective layer 22, and the transparent microspheres 23 are stacked in order, and the transparent microspheres 23 are embedded in the fixing resin layer 21. Further, in the retroreflective region 2, a transparent resin layer 24 may optionally be provided between the reflective layer 22 and the transparent microspheres 23.

[0049] In the retroreflective tape of the present invention, a region where the retroreflective region 2 is not provided corresponds to the non-retroreflective region 3 which does not exhibit retroreflective performance. The non-retroreflective region 3 may be a void portion with no other constituents than the base layer 1, or may include a material that does not exhibit retroreflective performance in addition to the base layer 1.

[0050] The retroreflective tape of the present invention may optionally be provided with an adhesive layer 4 on a surface on the non-incident light side, in order to provide adhesiveness to an adherend. When the support base 11 is not provided, the adhesive layer 4 may be provided on a surface of the fixing resin layer 21. When the support base 11 is provided, the adhesive layer 4 may be provided on a surface of the support base 11.

[0051] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a cross-sectional structure of the retroreflective tape of the present invention. The cross-sectional structures shown in FIGS. 1(A) to 1(C) are merely schematic diagrams, and the size and thickness of each member and layer, an area ratio of the retroreflective region 2 and the non-retroreflective region 3 and the like may differ from the preferred ranges.

[0052] In the retroreflective tape shown in FIG. 1(a), the support base 11 is used as the base layer 1, and in the retroreflective region 2, the fixing resin layer 21, the reflective layer 22, and the transparent microspheres 23 are provided in this order from the support base 11 side. The non-retroreflective region 3 is a void portion.

[0053] In the retroreflective tape shown in FIG. 1(b), the release base 12 (a laminate of a polyethylene terephthalate film 12a and a polyethylene film 12b) is used as the base layer 1, and in the retroreflective region 2, the transparent microspheres 23, the reflective layer 22, and the fixing resin layer 21 are provided in this order from the release base 12 side. The non-retroreflective region 3 is a void portion, and the adhesive layer 4 is further provided on the non-incident light side of the fixing resin layer 21.

[0054] In the retroreflective tape shown in FIG. 1(C), the support base 11 and the release base 12 (a laminate of the polyethylene terephthalate film 12a and the polyethylene film 12b) are used as the base layers 1, and in the retroreflective region 2, the fixing resin layer 21, the reflective layer 22, the transparent resin layer 24, and the transparent microspheres 23 are provided in this order from the support base 11 side toward the release base 12. In the non-retroreflective region 3, a void portion is formed between the support base 11 and the release base 12.

Base Layer

[0055] In the retroreflective tape of the present invention, the base layer supports the retroreflective region and serves as the base material of the tape. The base layer may be a support base provided on the non-incident light side of the fixing resin layer or may be a release base provided on the incident light side of the transparent microspheres. The support base is adhered to the fixing resin layer and plays a role of holding the fixing resin layer without being peeled off even during use. On the other hand, the release base is a base material provided on the incident light side of the transparent microspheres to hold the retroreflective region and peeled off during use. In the retroreflective tape of the present invention, although one of the support base and the release base may be provided as the base layer, both of them may be provided.

[0056] The support base may be directly stacked on the fixing resin layer, or may be stacked on the fixing resin layer with an adhesive layer formed of an adhesive therebetween.

[0057] The support base may be designed as appropriate in light of the use, required strength and flexibility, and the like of the retroreflective material. Examples of materials of the support base include natural fibers such as pulp; resins such as polyesters, for example, polyethylene terephthalate and polyethylene naphthalate; and metals. While the shape of the support base is not limited, the support base may be in the form of a sheet such as a woven knit, a nonwoven fabric, a film, or paper.

[0058] While the structure of the release base is not limited as long as it is removable with respect to the transparent microsphere side of the retroreflective region, examples of the structure include a laminate including a thermoplastic film stacked on a base film. When such a laminate is used as the release base, the thermoplastic film side is disposed on the incident light side of the transparent microsphere, and this results in a state where the thermoplastic film embeds a region where the transparent microspheres are exposed from the fixing resin layer to hold the retroreflective region.

[0059] While the base film constituting the release base is not limited as long as it can stably retain its shape at the softening temperature of the thermoplastic film to be stacked, examples of the base film include polyester films such as polyethylene terephthalate and polyethylene naphthalate. As the thermoplastic film constituting the release base, a resin film that softens at low temperature is preferred. Examples of such resin films include polyolefin resin films such as polyethylene and polypropylene. The thickness of the thermoplastic film may be set depending on the average particle size of the transparent microspheres.

[0060] The thickness of the base layer varies depending upon the support base or the release base. For example, in the case of the support base, the thickness is 30 to 800 m, preferably 50 to 500 m. For example, in the case of the release base, the thickness is 25 to 250 m, preferably 50 to 200 m.

Retroreflective Region

[0061] In the present invention, the retroreflective region is constituted of the fixing resin layer, the transparent microspheres embedded in the fixing resin layer, and a reflective layer formed of a metal film provided between the transparent microspheres and the fixing resin layer.

[Fixing Resin Layer]

[0062] The fixing resin layer serves to hold the transparent microspheres embedded therein.

[0063] The resin forming the fixing resin layer is not limited as long as it can hold the transparent microspheres embedded therein, and may be designed as appropriate in consideration of flexibility and the like required in the retroreflective material. Specific examples of the resin forming the fixing resin layer include polyolefin resins (polyethylene, polypropylene, etc.), ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer resins, polyvinyl alcohols, acrylic resins, urethane resins, and ester resins. Among the above, urethane resins may be preferred from the viewpoint of imparting excellent flexibility.

[0064] The resin forming the fixing resin layer may optionally be copolymerized with a silane coupling agent. Through this copolymerization with a silane coupling agent, the fixing resin layer can have durability, adhesiveness, and the like. Further, the resin forming the fixing resin layer may optionally be cross-linked with a cross-linking agent such as a polyisocyanate cross-linking agent, an epoxy cross-linking agent, or a melamine resin. Through this cross-linking with a cross-linking agent, the fixing resin layer can have heat resistance, wash resistance, and the like.

[0065] The fixing resin layer may also contain additives such as dyes, pigments, phosphorescent pigments, and inorganic fillers, depending on the use, required function, and the like of the retroreflective material.

[0066] While the thickness of the fixing resin layer is not limited as long as it can hold the transparent microspheres embedded therein, the thickness may be 15 to 300 m, for example, and preferably 20 to 200 m.

[Reflective Layer]

[0067] The reflective layer, which is provided between the transparent microspheres and the fixing resin layer, serves to retroreflect light incident from the transparent microspheres.

[0068] The reflective layer is formed of a metal film. Specific examples of metals forming the metal film include aluminum, titanium, zinc, silica, tin, nickel, and silver. Among these metals, aluminum may be preferred from the viewpoint of imparting further improved retroreflective performance.

[0069] While the thickness of the reflective layer is not limited, it is 100 to 2000 , for example, and preferably 600 to 1000 .

[Transparent Resin Layer]

[0070] The transparent resin layer is a layer optionally provided between the transparent microspheres and the reflective layer in a retroreflective region. That is, the transparent resin layer may or may not be provided in the retroreflective material of the present invention. With the transparent resin layer, the reflective luminance can be adjusted, or the color tone of emitted light can be changed The provision of the transparent resin layer can more hardly cause corrosion of the reflective layer.

[0071] While the resin forming the transparent resin layer is not limited as long as it has optical transparency, examples of the resin forming the transparent resin layer include acrylic resins, polyurethane resins, and polyester resins. The resin forming the transparent resin layer may optionally be copolymerized with a silane coupling agent, for the purpose of imparting durability, adhesiveness, and the like to the transparent resin layer. Further, the resin forming the transparent resin layer may optionally be cross-linked with a cross-linking agent such as a polyisocyanate cross-linking agent, an epoxy cross-linking agent, or a melamine resin, for the purpose of imparting heat resistance, wash resistance, and the like to the transparent resin layer.

[0072] The transparent resin layer may also contain additives such as ultraviolet absorbents, antioxidants, dyes, pigments, phosphorescent pigments, and inorganic fillers, depending on the use, required function, and the like of the retroreflective material.

[0073] Further, the transparent resin layer may optionally be provided with a decoration such as a pattern or letters on a surface thereof not in contact with the transparent microspheres (i.e., the surface exposed in the air).

[0074] While the thickness of the transparent resin layer may be set as appropriate in light of the required reflective luminance, color tone, and the like, the thickness may be 0.1 to 30 m, for example, and preferably 0.1 to 1.0 m.

[Transparent Microspheres]

[0075] The transparent microspheres, which are embedded in the fixing resin layer with the reflective layer therebetween, serve to pass incident light and emitted light retroreflected at the above-described reflective layer. Where the transparent resin layer is not provided, the transparent microspheres are embedded in contact with a surface of the reflective layer (see FIG. 1(a)). Where the transparent resin layer is provided, the transparent microspheres are embedded in contact with a surface of the transparent resin layer (see FIG. 1(c)).

[0076] n the present invention, transparent microspheres with a refractive index of 1.6 to 2.5 are used. Use of the transparent microspheres with such a refractive index leads to excellent retroreflective performance with the reflective layer brought into focus. From the viewpoint of imparting further improved retroreflective performance, the refractive index of the transparent microspheres is preferably 1.8 to 2.2, and more preferably 1.9 to 2.1.

[0077] The transparent microspheres are embedded and arranged in the fixing resin layer so as to be exposed in air with an exposure ratio of 53 to 70%. By arranging the transparent microspheres with such an exposure ratio, when the fixing resin layer, the transparent microspheres, and the reflective layer are partially peeled off in forming the non-retroreflective region, it is possible to suppress peeling of a region to be left as the retroreflective region, to stably form the retroreflective region in the retroreflective tape, and to clarify the boundary between the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region. Furthermore, by arranging the transparent microspheres with such an exposure ratio, it is also possible to suppress separation of the transparent microspheres during use and washing.

[0078] From the viewpoint of more effectively achieving clear formation of the boundary between the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region, washing durability, and suppression of separation of the transparent microspheres during use, the exposure ratio of the transparent microspheres is preferably 56 to 66%, more preferably 57 to 64%. As used herein, the exposure ratio of the transparent microspheres refers to the ratio (%) of the height of the region where the transparent microspheres are exposed, with respect to the diameter of the transparent microspheres, and represents a value calculated in accordance with the following equation:

Exposure ratio (%) of the transparent microspheres=(X/R)100, where:

[0079] R: R represents the diameter of the transparent microspheres; and

[0080] X: X represents the height from the top part of the surface of the reflective layer to the top part of the surfaces of the transparent microspheres exposed in the air, or represents, where the transparent resin layer is provided, the height from the top part of the surface of the reflective layer on the transparent resin layer to the top part of the surfaces of the transparent microspheres exposed in the air.

[0081] The exposure ratio herein represents a value calculated as an average of values obtained by measuring the respective exposure ratios of 30 or more transparent microspheres embedded in the retroreflective material.

[0082] Although the average particle size of the transparent microspheres is not particularly limited, from the viewpoint of further improving retroreflective performance, the average particle size of the transparent microspheres is generally 30 to 200 m, preferably 40 to 120 m, more preferably 50 to 100 m, and particularly preferably 75 to 90 m. The average particle size of the transparent microspheres herein represents a value obtained by measuring the maximum diameter of each transparent microsphere for 30 transparent microspheres, using a microscope set at 500 times magnification, and by calculating an average of the obtained values.

[0083] The material of the transparent microspheres is not limited as long as it may have the above-described refractive index, and may be any of a glass, a resin, and the like; however, glass transparent microspheres are suitably used in the present invention because they are excellent in transparency, chemical resistance, wash resistance, weather resistance, and the like.

[0084] In the retroreflective region, the number of transparent microspheres embedded per unit area may be set as appropriate depending on the intended retroreflective performance. For example, the number of transparent microspheres per 1 mm.sup.2 of the retroreflective region is 50 to 500, preferably 100 to 250, and more preferably 150 to 180. In particular, when the number of transparent microspheres that are exposed with an exposure ratio of 53 to 70% falls within the above-defined range, flexibility, retroreflective performance, and clear formation of the boundary between the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region can be achieved more effectively.

Non-Retroreflective Region

[0085] In the retroreflective tape of the present invention, the non-retroreflective region is a region not provided with the retroreflective region and having no retroreflective performance.

[0086] As shown in FIG. 1, it is preferable that in the non-retroreflective region, there be no member constituting the retroreflective region, and the non-retroreflective region be a void portion. However, as long as the flexibility of the retroreflective tape of the present invention is not impaired, a portion or the entirety of the non-retroreflective region may include materials (such as a resin forming the fixing resin layer or other resins) that do not exhibit retroreflective performance.

Arrangement of Retroreflective Region and Non-Retroreflective Region

[0087] In the retroreflective tape of the present invention, although the arrangement of the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region is not particularly limited, it is preferable that the retroreflective region be in communication in the longitudinal direction and/or the width direction of the retroreflective tape, and the retroreflective region is partitioned into a plurality of regions by the non-retroreflective region. As described above, by communicating the non-retroreflective region in the longitudinal direction and/or the width direction, when the fixing resin layer, the transparent microspheres, and the reflective layer are partially peeled off in forming the non-retroreflective region, it is possible to suppress peeling of a region to be left as the retroreflective region and to more stably form the retroreflective region in the retroreflective tape. In addition, by partitioning the retroreflective region into a plurality of regions, a design pattern can be formed, and the design of the retroreflective tape can be further improved while providing excellent retroreflective performance. The non-retroreflective region which is in communication in the longitudinal direction and/or the width direction is not necessarily linear and may have a polygonal line shape or have a shape with a curved line.

[0088] As a preferred example of the arrangement of the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region in the retroreflective tape of the present invention, it is preferable that the non-retroreflective region does not include a linear region extending parallel to the width direction of the retroreflective tape. By disposing the non-retroreflective region in this manner, when the fixing resin layer, the transparent microspheres, and the reflective layer are partially peeled off in the longitudinal direction in forming the non-retroreflective region, it is possible to more clearly form the boundary between the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region, and it is possible to more effectively provide flexibility, retroreflective performance, and clarity of the boundary.

[0089] Further, as a preferred example of the arrangement of the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region in the retroreflective tape of the present invention, it is preferable that the non-retroreflective region includes a plurality of linear regions extending in two or more (preferably three or more, more preferably four or more) different directions. By disposing the non-retroreflective region in this manner, when the retroreflective tape is attached to clothes or the like, the retroreflective tape more easily follows the movement of the wearer, and an effective comfortable feeling can be given to the wearer.

[0090] Furthermore, as a preferred example of the arrangement of the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region in the retroreflective tape of the present invention, the non-retroreflective region includes a plurality of linear regions extending in two or more different directions, and an intersection where the linear regions intersect with each other is formed. At this intersection, a more preferred shape is a shape where the corner of the retroreflective region formed by the linear portion is chamfered. By disposing the non-retroreflective region in this manner, the corner of the retroreflective region is chamfered at the intersection, so that an excellent design effect is provided. At the same time, when the retroreflective tape is attached to clothes or the like, the retroreflective tape more easily follows the movement of the wearer, and, in addition, the retroreflective tape of the present invention can be more hardly peeled off

[0091] FIGS. 2 and 3 show examples of patterns formed by the arrangement of retroreflective regions and non-retroreflective regions. In the examples of FIGS. 2 and 3, a plurality of the non-retroreflective regions linearly provided are in communication in the longitudinal direction and/or width direction of the retroreflective tape. The plurality of retroreflective regions are independently partitioned, and a pattern design is formed by the arrangement of the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region.

[0092] Nos. 2(a), 4(a), 6(a), and 7(a) in FIG. 2 and Nos. 2(b), 4(b), 6(b), and 7(b) in FIG. 3 show an example in which the non-retroreflective region does not include a linear region extending parallel to the width direction of the retroreflective tape.

[0093] Nos. 1(a) and (b), Nos. 2(a) and (b), Nos. 4(a) and (b), Nos. 5(a) and (b), Nos. 6(a) and (b), and Nos. 7(a) and (b) in FIGS. 2 and 3 show an example in which the non-retroreflective region includes a plurality of linear regions extending in two or more different directions. In Nos. 4(a) and (b), Nos. 5(a) and (b), and Nos. 7(a) and (b) in FIGS. 2 and 3, the non-retroreflective region is formed with a plurality of linear regions extending in three different directions.

[0094] In Nos. 1(a), 2(a), 4(a), 5(a), 6(a) and 7(a) in FIGS. 2 and 3, the non-retroreflective region is formed with a plurality of linear regions extending in two or more different directions, and the linear regions intersect with each other to form intersection portions. In Nos. 1(b), 2(b), 4(b), 5(b), 6(b) and 7(b) in FIGS. 2 and 3, the non-retroreflective region is formed with a plurality of linear regions extending in two or more different directions, and the linear regions intersect with each other to form an intersection portion. At the intersection, the corner of the retroreflective region formed by the linear portion is chamfered.

Area Ratio of Retroreflective Region and Non-Retroreflective Region

[0095] In the retroreflective tape of the present invention, although the area ratio of the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region (the area of the retroreflective region/the area of the non-retroreflective region) is not particularly limited, the area ratio is, for example, 70/30 to 95/5. From the viewpoint of more effectively achieving both flexibility and retroreflective performance, the area ratio of the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region (the area of the retroreflective region/the area of the non-retroreflective region) is preferably 80/20 to 90/10, for example.

Adhesive Layer

[0096] In the adhesive layer, the retroreflective tape of the present invention may optionally be provided with an adhesive layer on a surface opposite to the side on which light is incident, in order to provide adhesiveness to an adherend. In the retroreflective tape of the present invention, when the support base is not provided, the adhesive layer may be provided on a surface of the fixing resin layer on the side not facing the reflective layer, and when the support base is provided, the adhesive layer may be provided on a surface of the support base on the side not facing the fixing resin layer.

[0097] While the type of the resin forming the adhesive layer is not limited as long as it can impart adhesiveness to the adherend, examples of the resin include a hot melt adhesive such as polyester urethane resin.

[0098] While the thickness of the adhesive layer is not limited, it is about 20 to 200 m, for example, and preferably 30 to 100 m.

Performance and Uses

[0099] The retroreflective tape of the present invention has excellent retroreflective performance. The retroreflective performance of the retroreflective tape of the present invention may specifically be such that the retroreflective performance under the condition that the incident angle of light from a light source is 5 and an observation angle is 0.2 is 100 cd/lx/m.sup.2 or more, preferably 150 cd/lx/m.sup.2 or more, more preferably 180500 cd/lx/m.sup.2, and particularly preferably 330500 cd/lx/m.sup.2. As used herein, the retroreflective performance (cd/lx/m.sup.2) under the condition that the incident angle of the light from the light source is 5 and the observation angle is 0.2 refers to a value measured at an incident angle of 5 and an observation angle of 0.2, in accordance with the method defined in JIS Z9117 (2010). In the retroreflective tape of the present invention, in order to further improve the retroreflective performance, in addition to setting the exposure ratio of the transparent microspheres to 53 to 70%, for example, the refractive index of the transparent microspheres, the material, the average particle size, the number of transparent microspheres embedded per unit area, the thickness and material of the reflective layer, the area ratio of the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region, and the pattern of the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region may be adjusted as appropriate.

[0100] The retroreflective tape of the present invention can be used by being attached to or sewn on an adherend used in various purposes such as safety clothing, apparel, bags, suitcases, shoes, road markings, retroreflective photoelectric sensors, and touch panels (for example, infrared retroreflective detection-type touch panels).

[0101] Further, the retroreflective tape of the present invention can be continuously rewound and made into a retroreflective tape roll product.

Production Method

[0102] While the method for producing the retroreflective tape of the present invention is not limited as long as it can produce the retroreflective tape having the above-described configurations, the method may, for example, include the following steps 1 to 9: [0103] step 1: heating a release base in which a thermoplastic film is stacked on a base film at a temperature not less than the softening point of the thermoplastic film to soften the thermoplastic film; [0104] step 2: prior to, simultaneously with, or subsequent to step 1, dispersing transparent microspheres over the thermoplastic film of the release base, and cooling the resulting material to cure the thermoplastic film at the time when 53 to 70% of the diameter of the transparent microspheres has been embedded in the softened thermoplastic film, to obtain a release base in which the transparent microspheres are embedded; [0105] step 3: optionally forming a transparent resin layer by applying a resin forming the transparent resin layer to a surface with the transparent microspheres of the release base in which the transparent microspheres are embedded; [0106] step 4: stacking a reflective layer formed of a metal film on the surface with the transparent microspheres of the release base in which the transparent microspheres are embedded, or on the transparent resin layer; [0107] step 5: stacking a fixing resin layer on the reflective layer by applying a resin forming the fixing resin layer; [0108] step 6: optionally bonding the fixing resin layer with a support base; [0109] step 7: cutting along a region where a non-retroreflective region is to be formed from the fixing resin layer side to an interface on the side where the transparent microspheres of the thermoplastic film are embedded, peeling off, and exposing the thermoplastic film in this region; [0110] step 8: optionally peeling off the release base; and [0111] step 9: optionally rewinding the resultant retroreflective tape.

[0112] In the second step, the transparent microspheres are embedded in the thermoplastic film because the transparent microspheres placed on the thermoplastic film in a softened state are allowed to gravity settle. Thus, the size and density of the transparent microspheres, as well as the density and the thickness of the thermoplastic film, for example, are to be considered in the first step, and then in the second step, the degree of softening of the thermoplastic film may be controlled such that 53 to 70% of the diameter of the transparent microspheres is embedded in the thermoplastic film, by appropriately adjusting the heating temperature and time for softening.

[0113] For example, where transparent glass beads having a refractive index of 1.9 to 2.1 and an average particle size of 50 to 100 m are used as the transparent microspheres, a polyester film is used as the base film constituting the release base, and a polyethylene film is used as the thermoplastic film constituting the release base, the thermoplastic film may be softened by heating in the first step, with the heating temperature adjusted in the range of temperatures preferably from 150 C. to 230 C., and more preferably 180 C. to 220 C., and the heating time adjusted in the range of 2 to 3 minutes. This facilitates embedding 53 to 70% of the diameter of the transparent microspheres into the thermoplastic film in the second step. In this case, if heat treatment is performed, for example, at a temperature of 150 C. or lower for 2 to 3 minutes in the first step, the embedding ratio of the transparent microspheres into the thermoplastic film tends to be less than 53%. In particular, where transparent glass beads having a refractive index of 1.9 to 2.1 and an average particle size of 75 to 90 m are used as the transparent microspheres, a polyester film is used as the base film constituting the release base, and a polyethylene film is used as the thermoplastic film constituting the release base, the thermoplastic film may be softened by heating in the first step, with the heating temperature adjusted in the range of temperatures preferably from 190 C. to 220 C., and the heating time adjusted in the range of 2 to 3 minutes.

[0114] Where transparent glass beads with a refractive index of 1.9 to 2.1 and an average particle size of 50 to 100 m are used as the transparent microspheres, and a low density polyethylene film is used as the thermoplastic film constituting the release base, heating may be performed in the first step at a temperature of 150 C. to 230 C., and preferably 180 C. to 220 C. This facilitates gravity settling of the transparent microspheres in a short period of time in the second step, compared to the case where a polyethylene film with a density higher than that of the low density polyethylene is used. This is likely to be advantageous in continuous operation, for example. Further, in this case, the thickness of the low density polyethylene film may be adjusted such that the embedding ratio of the transparent microspheres is 53 to 70%, by sinking the transparent microspheres down to the polyester film interface. This facilitates achieving a uniform embedding ratio of the respective transparent microspheres.

[0115] The third and fourth steps are performed subsequent to the second step, after the thermoplastic film is returned to the cured state by being cooled or allowed to cool.

[0116] The third step is performed when the transparent resin layer is provided between the transparent microspheres and the reflective layer. The resin forming the transparent resin layer may be applied to the surface with the transparent microspheres, using a known resin coating method.

[0117] In the fourth step, the reflective layer formed of a metal film may be formed using a known metal film formation method such as vapor deposition, sputtering, chemical vapor deposition, or plating. Vapor deposition may be preferred as the method of forming the reflective layer.

[0118] In the fifth step, the resin forming the fixing resin layer may be applied onto the reflective layer, using a known resin coating method.

[0119] In the sixth step, the method of bonding the fixing resin layer with the support base is not limited, and may be a known lamination method.

[0120] In the seventh step, as a means for cutting, for example, a plotter cutter or the like can be used.

EXAMPLES

[0121] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to examples and comparative examples. However, the present invention is not limited to the examples.

[0122] It should be noted that the average particle size of the transparent glass beads used in the following test examples represents a value obtained by measuring the maximum diameter of each transparent microsphere for 30 transparent microspheres, using a microscope (trade name: Digital Microscope VHX-1000; Keyence Corporation) set at 500 times magnification, and by calculating an average of the obtained values. Moreover, in the following test examples, the exposure ratio of the transparent glass beads represents a value obtained in accordance with the equation shown above, by observing 30 or more transparent microspheres embedded in the retroreflective material under a microscope (trade name: Digital Microscope VHX-1000; Keyence Corporation), and measuring the heights of the transparent glass beads exposed in the air.

Test Example 1

1. Production of Retroreflective Tape

Example 1

[0123] A laminate (width: 50 mm, length: 50 m) obtained by stacking a 40-m-thick polyethylene film on a 75-m-thick polyester film was used as a release base, and the laminate was heated at 200 C. for 2 minutes to melt the polyethylene film. In this state, transparent glass beads with an average particle size of 79 m and a refractive index of 1.93 as transparent microspheres were dispersed in an amount of 150 to 180 transparent glass beads/mm.sup.2 over substantially one surface, and the resulting material was allowed to cool to cure the polyethylene film. Next, aluminum was deposited by the vapor deposition method on the surface with the transparent glass beads of the release base, thus forming a 700--thick reflective layer. Further, polyethylene terephthalate (hereinafter sometimes abbreviated as PET) was applied onto the reflective layer, thus forming a fixing resin layer. Thereafter, a hot melt adhesive (polyester urethane resin) used as a support base was coated, dried and cured on the fixing resin layer to produce an intermediate tape having only the retroreflective region.

[0124] Then, the resultant intermediate tape was cut from the support base side to the interface on the side where the transparent glass beads of the polyethylene film were embedded by a plotter cutter while a design value of the area ratio of the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region (the area of the retroreflective region/the area of the non-retroreflective region) was set to 80/20 so that the arrangement shown in No. 6(b) in FIG. 2 (the width of the linear portion being 1 mm) was formed, and the support base, the fixing resin layer, the reflective layer, and the transparent glass beads in a region forming the non-retroreflective region were integrally peeled off to obtain a retroreflective tape in which the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region were provided. In the resultant retroreflective tape, the exposure ratio of the transparent glass beads in the retroreflective region was 54%.

Example 2

[0125] A retroreflective tape was produced under the same conditions as those in Example 1, except that the polyethylene film was heated at 190 C. for 3 minutes. In the resultant retroreflective tape, the exposure ratio of the transparent glass beads in the retroreflective region was 56%.

Example 3

[0126] A retroreflective tape was produced under the same conditions as those in Example 1, except that the polyethylene film was heated at 200 C. for 3 minutes. In the resultant retroreflective tape, the exposure ratio of the transparent glass beads in the retroreflective region was 57%.

Example 4

[0127] A retroreflective tape was produced under the same conditions as those in Example 1, except that the polyethylene film was heated at 210 C. for 3 minutes. In the resultant retroreflective tape, the exposure ratio of the transparent glass beads in the retroreflective region was 64%.

Example 5

[0128] A retroreflective tape was produced under the same conditions as those in Example 1, except that the polyethylene film was heated at 220 C. for 3 minutes. In the resultant retroreflective tape, the exposure ratio of the transparent glass beads in the retroreflective region was 66%.

Comparative Example 1

[0129] A retroreflective tape was produced under the same conditions as those in Example 1, except that the polyethylene film was heated at 160 C. for 3 minutes. In the resultant retroreflective tape, the exposure ratio of the transparent glass beads in the retroreflective region was 31%.

Comparative Example 2

[0130] A retroreflective tape was produced under the same conditions as those in Example 1, except that the polyethylene film was heated at 180 C. for 3 minutes. In the resultant retroreflective tape, the exposure ratio of the transparent glass beads in the retroreflective region was 45%.

Comparative Example 3

[0131] A retroreflective tape was produced under the same conditions as those in Example 1, except that the polyethylene film was heated at 220 C. for 6 minutes. In the resultant retroreflective tape, the exposure ratio of the transparent glass beads in the retroreflective region was 80%.

Comparative Example 4

[0132] A 40-m-thick polyethylene film laminated on a 75-m-thick polyester film was used as a release base, and this laminate was heated at 200 C. for 2 minutes to melt the polyethylene film. In this state, transparent glass beads with an average particle size of 79 m and a refractive index of 1.93 as transparent microspheres were dispersed in an amount of 150 to 180 transparent glass beads/mm.sup.2 over substantially one surface, and the resulting material was allowed to cool to cure the polyethylene film. Next, aluminum was deposited by the vapor deposition method on the surface with the transparent glass beads of the release base, thus forming a 700--thick reflective layer. Further, polyethylene terephthalate (hereinafter sometimes abbreviated as PET) was applied onto the reflective layer, thus forming a fixing resin layer. Thereafter, a hot melt adhesive (polyester urethane resin) used as a support was coated, dried and cured on the fixing resin layer to produce an intermediate sheet having only the retroreflective region.

[0133] Then, the resultant intermediate sheet was just formed into a tape shape without providing a non-retroreflective region, and a retroreflective tape was produced (that is, the design value of the area ratio of the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region (the area of the retroreflective region/the area of the non-retroreflective region) was 100/0). In the resultant retroreflective tape, the exposure ratio of the transparent glass beads was 54%.

2. Evaluation of Retroreflective Tape

[0134] (1) Retroreflective Performance before Washing (cd/lx/m.sup.2)

[0135] The retroreflective performance before washing was measured at an incident angle of 5 and an observation angle of 0.2 in accordance with a method defined in JIS Z9117 (2010).

(2) Flexibility

[0136] The resultant retroreflective tape was attached to a shoulder portion of the same thin clothes by the same procedure, the clothes were worn by five panelists, and sensory evaluation was performed on the comfort of wearing when they move their shoulder joints. Clothes with no retroreflective tape were used as a blank, and the wearing comfort based on the blank was evaluated according to the following criteria. Grade 3 and higher grades were determined as being acceptable. [0137] Grade 5: Even if the shoulder was turned in any direction, flexibility was felt, and the wearing comfort was particularly excellent. [0138] Grade 4: When the shoulder was turned in multiple directions, there was a direction in which some resistance was observed; however, flexibility was provided, and the wearing comfort was excellent. [0139] Grade 3: When the shoulder was turned in multiple directions, there was a direction in which resistance was observed; however, substantial flexibility was provided, and there was no problem with the wearing comfort. [0140] Grade 2: When the shoulder was turned in multiple directions, there were many directions in which resistance was observed, and there was a slight problem with the wearing comfort. [0141] Grade 1: Even if the shoulder was turned in any direction, resistance was observed, and there was a problem with the wearing comfort.

(3) Clarity of Boundary Between Retroreflective Region and Non-Retroreflective Region

[0142] The boundary between the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region of the resultant tape was visually evaluated by five panelists according to the following criteria. Grade 3 and higher grades were determined as being acceptable. [0143] Grade 5: In a straight line of a boundary separating the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region, peeling of a portion of the retroreflective region which should be originally maintained was not observed at all, and the straight line was particularly clear without chipping. [0144] Grade 4: In the straight line of the boundary separating the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region, although slight peeling of a portion of the retroreflective region which should be originally maintained was observed, the straight line was clear with almost no chipping. [0145] Grade 3: In the straight line of the boundary separating the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region, peeling of a portion of the retroreflective region which should be originally maintained was somewhat observed, but was on a satisfactory level as appearance. [0146] Grade 2: In the straight line of the boundary separating the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region, much peeling of a portion of the retroreflective region which should be originally maintained was observed, and the straight line was significantly chipped and was slightly problematic in appearance. [0147] Grade 1: In the straight line of the boundary separating the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region, a lot of peeling of a portion of the retroreflective region which should be originally maintained was observed, and the straight line was considerably chipped and was problematic in appearance.

(4) Washing Durability

[0148] After the resultant tape was repeatedly washed 50 times by the ISO 6330 2A method, the retroreflective performance (cd/lx/m.sup.2) was measured by the method described in the above (1), and a ratio of the retroreflective performance after washing to the retroreflective performance before washing was calculated as the washing durability (%). 25% or more were determined as being acceptable.

[0149] The obtained results are shown in Table 1. From these results, it is found that in the retroreflective tape, by embedding the transparent microspheres in the fixing resin layer such that the exposure ratio of the transparent microspheres is in the range of 53 to 70%, while excellent flexibility, retroreflective performance, and washing durability are provided, the boundary between the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region can be clearly formed.

TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Comparative Comparative Comparative Comparative Example 1 Example 2 Example 3 Example 4 Example 5 Example 1 Example 2 Example 3 Example 4 Exposure ratio (%) of 54 56 57 64 66 31 45 80 54 transparent glass beads Pattern of retroreflective No. 6 (b) No. 6 (b) No. 6 (b) No. 6 (b) No. 6 (b) No. 6 (b) No. 6 (b) No. 6 (b) The entire region and non- retroreflective retroreflective region region Design value of area of 86.2 86.2 86.2 86.2 86.2 86.2 86.2 86.2 100 retroreflective region/ area of non-retroreflective region Clarity of boundary 4 4 4 5 5 1 1 5 between retroreflective region and non- retroreflective region Retroreflective 411 415 410 412 411 422 417 396 503 performance before washing (cd/lx/m.sup.2) Flexibility 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 1 Retroreflective 200 182 175 133 126 195 185 22 250 performance after 50 times washing (cd/lx/m.sup.2) Washing durability (%) 48.7 43.9 42.7 32.3 30.7 46.2 44.4 5.6 49.7

Test Example 2

1. Production of Retroreflective Tape

Example 6

[0150] A retroreflective tape was produced under the same conditions as those in Example 1, except that transparent glass beads with an average particle size of 65 m and a refractive index of 1.93 were used, and the polyethylene film was heated at 180 C. for 3 minutes. In the resultant retroreflective tape, the exposure ratio of the transparent glass beads in the retroreflective region was 59%.

Example 7

[0151] A retroreflective tape was produced under the same conditions as those in Example 6, except that the polyethylene film was heated at 190 C. for 3 minutes. In the resultant retroreflective tape, the exposure ratio of the transparent glass beads in the retroreflective region was 66%.

Example 8

[0152] A retroreflective material was produced under the same conditions as those in Example 6, except that the polyethylene film was heated at 210 C. for 3 minutes. In the resultant retroreflective tape, the exposure ratio of the transparent glass beads in the retroreflective region was 69%.

Comparative Example 5

[0153] A retroreflective material was produced under the same conditions as those in Example 6, except that the polyethylene film was heated at 220 C. for 6 minutes. In the resultant retroreflective tape, the exposure ratio of the transparent glass beads in the retroreflective region was 75%.

2. Evaluation of Retroreflective Performance of Retroreflective Material

[0154] The performance of each retroreflective material was evaluated in the same manner as in Test Example 1.

[0155] The obtained results are shown in Table 2. From these results, it is found that by setting the exposure ratio of the transparent microspheres in the range of 53 to 70% in the retroreflective tape, excellent flexibility, retroreflective performance, washing durability, and the clarity of the boundary between the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region can be achieved simultaneously.

TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Comparative Example 6 Example 7 Example 8 Example 5 Exposure ratio (%) of transparent glass beads 59 66 69 75 Pattern of retroreflective region and non- No. 6 (b) No. 6 (b) No. 6 (b) No. 6 (b) retroreflective region Design value of area of retroreflective region/ 80.2 80.2 80.2 80.2 area of non-retroreflective region Clarity of boundary between retroreflective region 4 5 5 5 and non-retroreflective region Retroreflective performance before washing 329 328 319 301 (cd/lx/m.sup.2) Flexibility 5 5 5 5 Retroreflective performance after 50 times washing 106 101 103 39 (cd/lx/m.sup.2) Washing durability (%) 32.2 30.8 32.3 13.0

Test Example 3

1. Production of Retroreflective Tape

Example 9

[0156] A retroreflective tape was produced under the same conditions as those in Example 3, except that cutting was performed from the support side to the interface on the side where the transparent glass beads of the polyethylene film were embedded by a plotter cutter while a design value of the area ratio of the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region (the area of the retroreflective region/the area of the non-retroreflective region) was set to 80/20 so that the arrangement shown in No. 1(a) in FIG. 2 (the width of the linear portion being 1 mm) was formed. In the resultant retroreflective tape, the exposure ratio of the transparent glass beads in the retroreflective region was 57%.

Example 10

[0157] A retroreflective tape was produced under the same conditions as those in Example 3, except that cutting was performed from the support side to the interface on the side where the transparent glass beads of the polyethylene film were embedded by a plotter cutter while a design value of the area ratio of the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region (the area of the retroreflective region/the area of the non-retroreflective region) was set to 80/20 so that the arrangement shown in No. 2(a) in FIG. 2 (the width of the linear portion being 1 mm) was formed. In the resultant retroreflective tape, the exposure ratio of the transparent glass beads in the retroreflective region was 57%.

Example 11

[0158] A retroreflective tape was produced under the same conditions as those in Example 3, except that cutting was performed from the support side to the interface on the side where the transparent glass beads of the polyethylene film were embedded by a plotter cutter while a design value of the area ratio of the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region (the area of the retroreflective region/the area of the non-retroreflective region) was set to 80/20 so that the arrangement shown in No. 3(a) in FIG. 2 (the width of the linear portion being 1 mm) was formed. In the resultant retroreflective tape, the exposure ratio of the transparent glass beads in the retroreflective region was 57%.

Example 12

[0159] A retroreflective tape was produced under the same conditions as those in Example 3, except that cutting was performed from the support side to the interface on the side where the transparent glass beads of the polyethylene film were embedded by a plotter cutter while a design value of the area ratio of the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region (the area of the retroreflective region/the area of the non-retroreflective region) was set to 80/20 so that the arrangement shown in No. 4(a) in FIG. 2 (the width of the linear portion being 1 mm) was formed. In the resultant retroreflective tape, the exposure ratio of the transparent glass beads in the retroreflective region was 57%.

Example 13

[0160] A retroreflective tape was produced under the same conditions as those in Example 3, except that cutting was performed from the support side to the interface on the side where the transparent glass beads of the polyethylene film were embedded by a plotter cutter while a design value of the area ratio of the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region (the area of the retroreflective region/the area of the non-retroreflective region) was set to 80/20 so that the arrangement shown in No. 5(a) in FIG. 2 (the width of the linear portion being 1 mm) was formed. In the resultant retroreflective tape, the exposure ratio of the transparent glass beads in the retroreflective region was 57%.

Example 14

[0161] A retroreflective tape was produced under the same conditions as those in Example 3, except that cutting was performed from the support side to the interface on the side where the transparent glass beads of the polyethylene film were embedded by a plotter cutter while a design value of the area ratio of the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region (the area of the retroreflective region/the area of the non-retroreflective region) was set to 80/20 so that the arrangement shown in No. 1(b) in FIG. 3 (the width of the linear portion being 1 mm) was formed. In the resultant retroreflective tape, the exposure ratio of the transparent glass beads in the retroreflective region was 57%.

Example 15

[0162] A retroreflective tape was produced under the same conditions as those in Example 3, except that cutting was performed from the support side to the interface on the side where the transparent glass beads of the polyethylene film were embedded by a plotter cutter while a design value of the area ratio of the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region (the area of the retroreflective region/the area of the non-retroreflective region) was set to 80/20 so that the arrangement shown in No. 2(b) in FIG. 3 (the width of the linear portion being 1 mm) was formed. In the resultant retroreflective tape, the exposure ratio of the transparent glass beads in the retroreflective region was 57%.

Example 16

[0163] A retroreflective tape was produced under the same conditions as those in Example 3, except that cutting was performed from the support side to the interface on the side where the transparent glass beads of the polyethylene film were embedded by a plotter cutter while a design value of the area ratio of the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region (the area of the retroreflective region/the area of the non-retroreflective region) was set to 80/20 so that the arrangement shown in No. 3(b) in FIG. 3 (the width of the linear portion being 1 mm) was formed. In the resultant retroreflective tape, the exposure ratio of the transparent glass beads in the retroreflective region was 57%.

Example 17

[0164] A retroreflective tape was produced under the same conditions as those in Example 3, except that cutting was performed from the support side to the interface on the side where the transparent glass beads of the polyethylene film were embedded by a plotter cutter while a design value of the area ratio of the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region (the area of the retroreflective region/the area of the non-retroreflective region) was set to 80/20 so that the arrangement shown in No. 4(b) in FIG. 3 (the width of the linear portion being 1 mm) was formed. In the resultant retroreflective tape, the exposure ratio of the transparent glass beads in the retroreflective region was 57%.

Example 18

[0165] A retroreflective tape was produced under the same conditions as those in Example 3, except that cutting was performed from the support side to the interface on the side where the transparent glass beads of the polyethylene film were embedded by a plotter cutter while a design value of the area ratio of the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region (the area of the retroreflective region/the area of the non-retroreflective region) was set to 80/20 so that the arrangement shown in No. 5(b) in FIG. 3 (the width of the linear portion being 1 mm) was formed. In the resultant retroreflective tape, the exposure ratio of the transparent glass beads in the retroreflective region was 57%.

2. Evaluation of Retroreflective Performance of Retroreflective Material

[0166] The performance of each retroreflective material was evaluated in the same manner as in Test Example 1.

[0167] The obtained results are shown in Table 3. From these results, it is found that even if the arrangement pattern of the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region is changed, by setting the exposure ratio of the transparent microspheres in the range of 53 to 70%, excellent flexibility, retroreflective performance, washing durability, and the clarity of the boundary between the retroreflective region and the non-retroreflective region can be achieved simultaneously.

TABLE-US-00003 TABLE 3 Example Example Example Example Example Example 9 Example 10 Example 11 Example 12 Example 13 14 15 16 17 18 Exposure ratio (%) 57 57 57 57 57 57 57 57 57 57 of transparent glass beads Pattern of No. 1 (a) No. 2 (a) No. 3 (a) No. 4 (a) No. 5 (a) No. 1 No. 2 No. 3 No. 4 No. 5 retroreflective (b) (b) (b) (b) (b) region and non- retroreflective region Design value of 78.3 75.7 74.5 80.6 75.4 77.5 75.6 74 80.2 74.8 area of retroreflective region/area of non- retroreflective region Clarity of 3 4 3 4 3 4 5 4 5 4 boundary between retroreflective region and non- retroreflective region Retroreflective 385 380 377 415 376 377 370 371 395 364 performance before washing (cd/lx/m.sup.2) Flexibility 5 3 3 5 5 5 3 3 5 5 Retroreflective 115 117 113 120 113 116 113 109 122 111 performance after 50 times washing (cd/lx/m.sup.2) Rate (%) of 29.9 30.8 30.0 28.9 30.1 30.8 30.5 29.4 30.9 30.5 transparent microspheres falling off when tape is used by being attached to cloth, etc.

DESCRIPTION OF REFERENCE SIGNS

[0168] 1: Base Layer

[0169] 11: Support base

[0170] 12: Release base

[0171] 2: Retroreflective Region

[0172] 21: Fixing resin layer

[0173] 22: Reflective layer

[0174] 23: Transparent microspheres

[0175] 24: Transparent resin layer

[0176] 3: Non-Retroreflective Region

[0177] 4: Adhesive Layer