Method of manufacturing thermoformed plastic articles and drink cup lid made by such method

Abstract

A method and apparatus for vacuum thermoforming disposable drink cups lids including the step of imparting printing to the lids in two or more colors while they are in contact with the vacuum thermoforming platen.

1 . A thermoformed thin plastic lid for drink cups comprising a raised rim defining a central printable area formed according to the method comprising the steps of: 
 hot melt extruding a thin web of plastic material;    contacting the web with a vacuum thermoforming platen configured to form said article and said area within said article;    applying vacuum to said platen;    applying inks of at least two colors to said area after formation thereof but while said article remains in contact with said platen; and    separating said web and article from said platen.    
     
     
         2 . Apparatus for vacuum thermoforming and printing articles in a substantially continuous fashion comprising: 
 a vacuum thermoforming drum carrying regularly spaced theromforming dies;    at least two printing cylinders carrying printing plates disposed adjacent said drum for contacting and imparting ink to said articles as they are formed over said dies; and    means for rotating said printing cylinders in synchronism with said drum.    
     
     
         3 . Apparatus as defined in  claim 2  further including an inking roller contacting said printing cylinder; and 
 means for rotating said inking roller in synchronism with said printing cylinder.