The present invention generally relates to illuminating appliques. More particularly, the present invention relates to a process of preparing a light-transmitting leatherette which is aesthetically appealing and provides high design freedom by its ability to permit light to pass through effectively.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:

[0002] In today's world, consumers have high expectations from products and their performances. Most importantly, with the advent of technology, and minimalistic design products requirements are shifting to less moving parts. Modernization has caused replacement of switches and bulky lights with sleek accents and light emitting diodes (LEDs). While applications of such products are relevant to various industries, nevertheless, in particular, automobile consumers have demanded improved safety of vehicles, driving performance, and continuous modernization of automotive interior parts. These automotive interior parts include such as, but not limited to, handles, instrument panels, arm rests, door trims, head liners, dash kits, dash panels and the like. Such interior parts determine perceived quality of the automotive interiors and many attempts have been made to provide distinctive functional and aesthetic components for vehicles that are easily recognizable and identifiable.

[0003] In general, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) leatherette is widely used in various industries to replace genuine leather. In automotive industries, PVC leatherette is used for seating, door trims, arm rest, center consoles and other interior parts. Application of the said product is immensely useful for aesthetically pleasing designs in home/commercial interiors as well as in automotive interiors. Specifically, in dim conditions, lack of visibility of these functional components, such as door handles, center consoles makes difficult for a user to locate the components to utilize their functionality. Also, lack of visibility of aesthetic components, such as insignias, or symbols inhibit from contributing to aesthetic appeal of the vehicle.

[0004] Currently, to address dim lighting in vehicles and residential, commercial establishments, lighting fixtures are used for illumination such as lighting lamps, instrument panels, switch lights and the like. However, these lighting fixtures are bulky which require additional components or recess for holding the lighting fixtures and associated electrical connections. This increases the complexity and size of the components. Also, the leatherette present in these automotive interiors is opaque or semi-opaque in terms of light transmission which is used only for the aesthetic purpose in the automotive interiors.

[0005] There are a number of problems associated with the conventional methods. Such conventional methods for providing illumination of vehicle components utilize exposed light emitting diodes (LEDs) that require bulky electrical connections which are further arranged in large housings within the vehicle component to conceal these LEDs along with their wirings. Further, these conventional vehicle lighting features such as LED lighting provides illumination only to a specific area and are do not conform to the contours of the vehicle components, thereby increasing the necessity of concealing these lighting features. Furthermore, the conventional automotive interiors include mechanical switches in control panel for operating the functions of the vehicle which although have the merits of less frequent malfunctioning and presence of reliable input feeling, however, this increases the number of switches in the automotive interior parts. Accordingly, in view of the operation and design freedom, there is a demand for reduction in number and simplification of the switches in the automotive interior parts. Similar limitations are there in the household appliances and fashion products which include conventional leatherette.

[0006] In view of the above limitations of the conventional approaches, leatherette and methods, there exists a need to develop an improved approach, a light-transmitting leatherette and method which would in turn address a variety of issues including, but not limited to, additional components such as LEDs, mechanical switches and associated electrical connections in interior parts, lack of visibility of functional and aesthetic components in dim conditions and which is aesthetically appealing and provides high design freedom in automotive interior parts. Moreover, it is desired to develop a light-transmitting leatherette which is not only used to create wonderful finishes by having a backlight household appliances, fashion merchandise but also on the unexposed rear interiors of the materials.

[0007] Thus, the above-described deficiencies of conventional approaches, leatherette and methods thereof, are merely intended to provide an overview of some of the problems of conventional approaches and are not intended to be exhaustive. Other problems with conventional approaches, leatherette and methods and their corresponding benefits of the various non-limiting embodiments described herein may become further apparent upon review of the following description.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:

[0008] The following presents a simplified summary of the invention to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the invention. This summary is not an extensive overview of the present invention. It is not intended to identify the key/critical elements of the invention or to delineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some concept of the invention in a simplified form as a prelude to a more detailed description of the invention presented later.

[0009] It is, therefore, an object of the present invention to provide a light-transmitting leatherette which has high design freedom due to the ability to permit light to pass through effectively thus, making the light-transmitting leatherette useful in variety of applications.

[0010] It is another object of the present invention to provide a light-transmitting leatherette which eliminates the usage of additional components such as mechanical switches and associated electrical connections thereby making the light-transmitting leatherette aesthetically appealing.

[0011] It is another object of the present invention to provide a light-transmitting leatherette which possesses accelerated weathering resistance.

[0012] It is another object of the present invention to provide a light-transmitting leatherette which functions as a touch sensor thus, reduces the damage to the surface material touched by the hand or the like in the operation during the practical use.

[0013] It is still another object of the present invention to provide a light-transmitting leatherette which facilitates of illumination of the symbols, indicators or the like without compromising on the aesthetic appearance.

[0014] Accordingly, in an aspect, the present invention provides a method of preparing a light-transmitting leatherette comprising the steps of mixing a plurality of constituents followed by grinding, wherein the plurality of constituents are selected from a group consisting of polymer, plasticizer, stabilizer, pigments, and additives to form a plurality of pastes; coating a first paste form the plurality of pastes on a support member and heating the first paste to form a skin coat, the first paste comprises a mixture of the polymer, plasticizer, stabilizer, pigments, and additives; coating the first paste form the plurality of pastes on the skin coat and heating the first paste to form a foam coat; coating a second paste form the plurality of pastes on the foam coat to form an adhesive coat, the second paste comprises a mixture of the polymer, plasticizer, stabilizer, and additives; pasting a fabric layer on to the adhesive coat; heating the support member with the skin coat, foam coat, adhesive coat and fabric layer; and removing the support member from the skin coat, foam coat, adhesive coat and fabric layer to obtain the light-transmitting leatherette.

[0015] Accordingly, in another aspect, the present invention provides a light-transmitting leatherette.

[0016] Other aspects, advantages, and salient features of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which, details the invention in different embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS:

[0017] While the specification concludes with claims that particularly point out and distinctly claim the invention, it is believed that the advantages and features of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following more detailed description of expressly disclosed exemplary embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The drawings and detailed description which follow are intended to be merely illustrative of the expressly disclosed exemplary embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention as set forth in the appended claims. In the drawings:

[0018] FIG. 1 is a flow chart illustrating a method of preparing a light-transmitting leatherette in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0019] FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the light-transmitting leatherette in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0020] FIG. 3 illustrates pictorial images of the exemplary (a) normal leatherette and (b) light-transmitting leatherette in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; and

[0021] FIG. 4 illustrates pictorial images of another exemplary (a) normal leatherette and (b) light-transmitting leatherette in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION:

CALL OUT LIST
1000 Light-transmitting leatherette
200 skin coat
400 foam coat
600 adhesive coat
800 fabric layer

[0022] The exemplary embodiments described herein detail for illustrative purposes are subject to many variations in the structure and design. It should be emphasized, however, that the present invention is not limited to a particular leatherette as shown and described herein. It is understood that various omissions and substitutions of equivalents are contemplated as circumstances may suggest or render expedient, but these are intended to cover the application or implementation without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims of the present invention. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0023] The use of terms “including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof herein are meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items.

[0024] Further, the terms, “an” and “a” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced item.

[0025] Referring to FIG. 1, the invention will now be described in more detail. A method of preparing a light-transmitting leatherette (1000), as shown in FIG. 1, is provided. At first step of the method, a plurality of constituents are mixed together followed by grinding to form a plurality of pastes. The mixing of the plurality of constituents is performed by a three roll mill to obtain a homogenous paste. The mixing consistency is very high to ensure that transparency is consistent. After grinding the plurality of constituents, the mixture obtained is filtered. The plurality of constituents are selected from a group consisting of polymer, plasticizer, stabilizer, pigments, and additives.

[0026] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of constituents comprises polymer in an amount of 100 PHR (parts per hundred), plasticizer in an amount of 50-70 PHR, stabilizer in an amount of 3-4 PHR, and pigments in an amount of 12-18 PHR. Preferably, the polymer is Polyvinyl chloride (PVC). In accordance with another embodiment the polymer is a conductive material such as, but not limited to, electro conductive polymer. Preferably, the plasticizer is Dioctyl terephthalate (DOTP). The pigments are selected form, but not limited to, a group consisting oftitanium dioxide, and red oxide (black oxide or yellow pigment). Further, the additives are selected form, but not limited to, a group consisting of Antimony Trioxide, Antimony Dihydrate, and Tinuvin-P. The additives may be added as per the end product requirements.

[0027] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, at second step of the method, a first paste form said plurality of pastes is coated on a support member and the first paste is then heated to form a skin coat (200). In particular, the first coat is done through knife coater on the support member. Thickness of coating is controlled by maintaining the gap between the support member and knife. Thickness is automatically controlled during production with the help of a gauge controller. Thereafter, the first paste coated on the support member moves towards a heating oven with a temperature in the range of, but not limited to, 165-175°C. After passing through the oven, the first paste is converted into a film to form the skin coat (200). The first paste comprises a mixture of the polymer, plasticizer, stabilizer, pigments, and additives. Further, the support member is a release paper.

[0028] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, at thirds step of the method, the first paste form the plurality of pastes is coated on the skin coat (200) and the first paste is then heated to form a foam coat (400). In this step, the coating is done over the first coating in same way as skin coating is done, by coating the first paste on the skin coat (200). Desired thickness of this coating is maintained by gap of knife and support member with the skin coat (200). Thereafter, the first paste coated on the skin coat (200) is passed through another heating oven where the temperature in the range of, but not limited to, 190-200°C is maintained. After passing through the oven, the first paste coated on the skin coat (200) is converted into a film to form the foam coat (400). Now this film is composed of foam coat (400) or the middle coat and the skin coat (200).

[0029] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, at fourth step of the method, a second paste form the plurality of pastes is coated on the foam coat (400) to form an adhesive coat (600). The coating is done over the second coating in same way as foam coating is done, by coating the second paste on the foam coat (400) to form the adhesive coat (600). Desired thickness of this coating is maintained by gap of knife and support member with the foam coat (200). The second paste comprises a mixture of the polymer, plasticizer, stabilizer, and additives.

[0030] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of pastes are applied at a line speed of 10 meters per minute. In other words, the plurality of pastes including the first paste and the second paste are applied at a line speed of 10 meters per minute to form the skin coat (200), foam coat (400), and the adhesive coat (600).

[0031] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, at fifth step of the method, the fabric layer (800) is pasted or laminated on to the adhesive coat (600). Backing fabric comes from a fabric unwinding station which is spread on the adhesive coat (600) by the help of the roller. Preferably, the fabric layer (800) is a Polyethersulfone (PES) knit fabric. At sixth step of the method, the support member with the skin coat (200), foam coat (400), adhesive coat (600) and fabric layer (800) is heated. In particular, the support member or the paper with all the layers of coating and fabric is passed through the heating oven at a temperature in the range of, but not limited to, 165-175°C.

[0032] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the method further comprises a step of coating the support member with a pigment paste which comprises a dry pigment, plasticizer, and a dispersing agent.

[0033] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, at seventh or last step of the method, the support member is removed from the skin coat (200), foam coat (400), adhesive coat (600) and the fabric layer (800) to obtain the light-transmitting leatherette (1000). After passing through the final heating oven the support member or the paper is released and this is taken on paper winding station where paper winding takes place. This paper can be reused for as many times till finished product quality meets the required specification. Similarly, the final product thus released from the support member or the paper goes for product winder. Thereafter, jumbo rolls of the final product or the light-transmitting leatherette (1000) are stored. Further, the final product thus obtained does not require embossing on the material due to the use of a textured paper.

[0034] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the light-transmitting leatherette (1000), as shown in FIG. 2, is provided. FIG. 2 shows the cross-sectional view of the light-transmitting leatherette (1000). As shown in FIG.2, light-transmitting leatherette (1000) comprises a first layer of a skin coat (200), a second layer of a foam coat (400), a third layer of an adhesive coat (600), and a fourth layer of a fabric (800). The first layer of the skin coat (200) has a first paste which comprises a mixture of polymer, plasticizer, stabilizer, pigments, and additives. The second layer of the foam coat (400) also has the first paste. The third layer of the adhesive coat (600) has a second paste which comprises a mixture of the polymer, plasticizer, stabilizer, and additives. Each of the first layer, second layer, third layer and the fourth layer are sequentially arranged from bottom to top.

[0035] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the polymer is present in an amount of 100 PHR (parts per hundred), plasticizer in an amount of 50-70 PHR, stabilizer in an amount of 3-4 PHR, and pigments in an amount of 12-18 PHR. The additives may be added as per the end product requirements. Preferably, the polymer is Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), plasticizer is Dioctyl terephthalate (DOTP), and the fabric (800) is a Polyethersulfone (PES) knit fabric. In accordance with another embodiment, the polymer is electro conductive polymer. The pigments are selected form, but not limited to, a group consisting of titanium dioxide, and red oxide (black oxide or yellow pigment). Further, the additives are selected form, but not limited to, a group consisting of Antimony Trioxide, Antimony Dihydrate, and Tinuvin-P.

[0036] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the back surface of the light-transmitting leatherette (1000) is coupled with LED strips. In particular, the skin coat (200) is further coupled with the LED strips for aesthetic appeal when they are switched on.

[0037] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the light-transmitting leatherette (1000) is used as a capacitive touch sensor which functions as a switch wherein the light source is turned on when surface of the light-transmitting leatherette (1000) is touched by the user or when the hand of a user approaches the surface of light-transmitting leatherette (1000). Since, the light-transmitting leatherette (1000) is used as a touch sensor, the damage to the surface of the leatherette touched by the hand or the like in the operation during the practical use will be reduced and the quality is less likely to be deteriorated compared to the push down switches as used in the conventional automotive parts. Accordingly, the light-transmitting leatherette (1000) allows light transmission, and thus, figures, letters, symbols or other designs hidden below the leatherette are indicated on the surface of the light-transmitting leatherette (1000) by the light emitted from the light source placed on the light-transmitting leatherette, when desired by the user.

[0038] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the light-transmitting leatherette (1000) not only passes through light when the fixture on the rear part is illuminated, but also the light-transmitting leatherette (1000) is 100% opaque and so in any custom color as soon as the light is turned off. For example, a wall panel which has a wonderful design LED hidden in the rear part of an upholstered leatherette which would seem like a solid colored finish with no imperfections. As soon as the LED in the rear part is turned on, the light may pass through with ease, recreating the design on the surface of the leatherette resulting in aesthetically pleasing light-transmitting leatherette. Another example may include, but not limited to, an instrument panel in the vehicle which does not need any buttons but have fan controls, or the like printed on the leatherette. As the fan speeds is increased, the light passing through the leatherette may easily denote what level is the fan blower on.

[0039] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the light-transmitting leatherette (1000) is conductive in nature, thus, the leatherette is able to easily pass through “touch” effect from the front to the rear part of the material. This feature allows creating switches or programmable buttons or commands that react to touch without any mechanical parts. For example, in order to convert the buttons of the fan blower in the vehicle from mechanical to touch based, where in the leatherette draped over the controller may be able to transmit the “touch” from the surface to the sensor in the rear part of the leatherette.

[0040] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 illustrates the pictorial images of the exemplary (a) normal leatherette and (b) the light-transmitting leatherette illuminating the seat. Similarly, FIG. 4 illustrates the pictorial images of another exemplary (a) normal leatherette and (b) the light-transmitting leatherette illuminating the numbers or digits in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the light-transmitting leatherette (1000) may be of various types including, but not limited to, light emitting synthetic leather, light-transmitting PVC leather, light-transmitting transparent leatherette, light-transmitting transparent faux leather, light-transmitting transparent leo leather or the like. The light-transmitting leatherette (1000) may be provided with or without any textile or other substrate. Further, the light-transmitting leatherette (1000) may be customized based on the user’s desire or requirement.

[0042] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the light-transmitting leatherette (1000) may be potentially used in the field of automotive industry, manufacturing industry, household appliances, fashion products, textile industry or the like. Further, the light-transmitting leatherette (1000) may provide minimalistic and functional improvements in many applications such as, but not limited to, interiors, automotives, art and craft and in other industries.

[0043] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a light-transmitting sheet of plastic is provided which is aesthetically appealing and provides high design freedom by the ability to permit light to pass through effectively. Further, the light-transmitting sheet of plastic may be conductive in nature with the capability to transmit the sense of “touch” through the front surface to the rear part of the sheet.
EXAMPLES
The following examples are intended as illustrative and non-limiting and represent specific embodiments of the present disclosure.

Example 1: Materials and Methods
[0044] The plurality of constituents were used which included polymer, plasticizer, stabilizer, pigments, and additives. The polymer used was Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) (Chemplast 121 / Chemplast 124) of B 7021 grade. The PVC was procured from Vestolit, Germany. The plasticizer used was Kanatol K8080 or Dioctyl terephthalate (DOTP). DOTP was procured from Humade Corporation. The stabilizer was RUP-151R procured from Adeka Corporation, Japan. The pigments used were red oxide (446), black (C05), yellow pigment which were procured from BASF, USA. The additives used were Antimony Trioxide, Antimony Dihydrate 4200, and Tinuvin-P procured from Chemico Chemical, Nicknam Chemicals, and Oswal Polycam, respectively. The mixing of the plurality of constituents was performed by a three roll mill to obtain a homogenous paste followed by grinding and filtering. Further, a fabric and a release paper were used. The fabric was PES knit fabric procured from XIN-LUN Company, China and the release paper was silky matt procured from Sappi. Table 1 below shows the specification of the plurality of constituents used.

TABLE 1: Specifications of the plurality of constituents
Constituents Grade Specification
PVC B 7021 K Value – 70
Viscosity – 125cm3/gm
Sieve Analysis - ?1%
Plasticizer DOTP Specific gravity – 0.986
Thermal stability – should be transparent
Volatile loss – 0.1% max
Thermal stability – should be transparent
Stablizer RUP-151R Heat stability – PVC film Should not be degrade
Pigment Red oxide(446), Black(C05), Yellow Strength - 100±10%
Delta E - ?1.0 max
Additives Antimony Trioxide Moisture – 0.1% max
Antimony Dihydrate 4200 Moisture – 0.1% max
Tinuvin-P Moisture – 0.5% max
Fabric PES knit fabric Count – 40s/S/1
CB – polyester spun
NEPS – 40/1N/E
Release Paper Silky matt Thickness – 0.16-0.18mm

Example 2: Preparation of the light-transmitting leatherette
[0045] After preparing the paste, the release paper for supporting this paste was used. With the support of release paper, the prepared paste was passed through the heating oven to convert this paste into a film. Availability of the release paper was in roll form with around length of 1800 to 2000 mtr. This paper roll was placed on unwinding station on the machine. Then the release paper was passed through the machine up to the final stage where winding of this paper takes place. First coat of the prepared paste was done through knife coater on the release paper. Then the paste coated on paper was moved towards the heating oven with desired temperatures of 170±5°C. After passing through the oven the paste is converted into film to form the skin coat. Second stage of coating was done over first coating in same way as skin coating was done. This was passed through another heating oven where temperature 195±5°C was maintained. Again this paste was converted into a film to form the middle coat or the foam coat. Third stage of coating of paste was done over the middle coat or the foam coat in similar manner as done for earlier two coats. This coating was formed as an adhesive coat which acted as adhesive to laminate the fabric. The coating were applied at a line speed of 10 meters per minute to form the skin coat of 370 grams at 175 degrees, foam coat of 650 grams at 200 degrees, and the adhesive coat of 120 grams at 175 degrees. Backing fabric from the fabric unwinding station was spread on the adhesive coat by the help of roller. After this the paper with all the layers of coating and fabric was passed through the heating oven at the temperature of 170±5°C. After passing through the final heating oven the paper was released and this was taken on a paper winding station where the paper winding took place. Similarly, the final product or the light-transmitting leatherette thus, released from paper went for product winder. Jumbo rolls of the final product were then stored for inspection of quality of the final product. Table 2 below shows the paste preparation for various coatings and their inspection methods.
TABLE 2: Paste preparation for various coatings
Paste Preparation Constituents Mixing Method Specification Inspection Method
Pigment preparation Dry pigment, plasticizer, Dispersing agent Attritor & bead mill Particle Size - 0.20-0.25 micron Hegman gauge
Skin Coat preparation PVC, plasticizer, stabilizer, additives, pigment Homogeneous mixture Viscosity – As per specified procedure Ford Cup
Middle coat preparation PVC, plasticizer, stabilizer, additives, pigment Homogeneous mixture Viscosity – As per specified procedure Ford Cup
Adhesive coat preparation PVC, plasticizer, stabilizer, additives Homogeneous mixture Viscosity – As per specified procedure Ford Cup

Example 3: Characteristics of the final product or the light-transmitting leatherette
[0046] The final product thus obtained was the light-transmitting leatherette which showed specific physical properties and mechanical physical performance properties. Table 3 below shows the physical properties of the final product and Table 4 below shows the mechanical physical performance properties of the final product.

TABLE 3: Physical properties of the final product
Properties Results Test Method
Weight 700-850 g/m2 IS 7016
Gauge 0.8-1.0 mm IS 7016
Light transmittance 50-65% ASTM E1348

TABLE 4: Mechanical physical performance properties of the final product
Properties Results Test Method
Breaking Strength =200N (MD) IS 7016
Breaking Strength =190N (TD) IS 7016
Elongation =32% (MD) IS 7016
Elongation =108% (TD) IS 7016
Tear Strength =20N (MD) IS 7016
Tear Strength =14N (TD) IS 7016
Adhesive Strength =35N (MD) IS 7016
Adhesive Strength =35N (TD) IS 7016
Abrasion No gloss of colour change, No loss of coating IS 7016
Fogging (Gravimetric) ?1.5 mg SAE J1756
Accelerated Weathering Resistance No cracking, chalking, tackiness, loss of grain, wrinkling, blistering, or other undesirable effects (ratings =4 Gray scale) ISO 105-B06
(Condition 5)

[0047] Apart from what is disclosed above, the present invention also includes some additional benefits and advantages. Few of the additional benefits are mentioned below:

• The present invention provides the light-transmitting leatherette which is aesthetically appealing and provides high design freedom by the ability to permit light to pass through effectively.

• The light-transmitting leatherette is conductive in nature with the capability to transmit the sense of “touch” through the front surface to the rear part of the leatherette.

• The light-transmitting leatherette prevents the damage to the surface material touched by the hand or the like while operating therefore, the quality is less likely to be deteriorated compared to the push down switches in the conventional products or automotive parts.

• The light-transmitting leatherette may be used in various industries for variety of applications such as, but not limited to, automobile interiors like instrument panels, door trim arm rest, furniture at home, office, club like sofa and chair, kids shoes, fashion like women’s handbags, clothes, men’s clothes or the like.

[0048] The foregoing descriptions of exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed, and obviously many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The exemplary embodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is understood that various omissions, substitutions of equivalents are contemplated as circumstance may suggest or render expedient, but is intended to cover the application or implementation without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims of the present invention.

We Claim:

1. A method of preparing a light-transmitting leatherette (1000), comprising the steps of:
mixing a plurality of constituents followed by grinding, said plurality of constituents selected from a group consisting of polymer, plasticizer, stabilizer, pigments, and additives to form a plurality of pastes;
coating a first paste form said plurality of pastes on a support member and heating said first paste to form a skin coat (200), said first paste comprises a mixture of said polymer, plasticizer, stabilizer, pigments, and additives;
coating said first paste form said plurality of pastes on said skin coat (200) and heating said first paste to form a foam coat (400);
coating a second paste form said plurality of pastes on said foam coat (400) to form an adhesive coat (600), said second paste comprises a mixture of said polymer, plasticizer, stabilizer, and additives;
pasting a fabric layer (800) on to said adhesive coat (600);
heating said support member with said skin coat (200), said foam coat (400), said adhesive coat (600) and fabric layer (800); and
removing said support member from said skin coat (200), said foam coat (400), said adhesive coat (600) and fabric layer (800) to obtain said light-transmitting leatherette (1000).

2. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said plurality of constituents comprises polymer in an amount of 100 PHR (parts per hundred), plasticizer in an amount of 50-70 PHR, stabilizer in an amount of 3-4 PHR, and pigments in an amount of 12-18 PHR.

3. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said polymer is Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), plasticizer is Dioctyl terephthalate (DOTP), said fabric layer (800) is a Polyethersulfone (PES) knit fabric, and said support member is a release paper.
4. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said polymer is electro conductive polymer.

5. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said pigments are selected form a group consisting of titanium dioxide, and red oxide (black oxide or yellow pigment).

6. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said additives are selected form a group consisting of Antimony Trioxide, Antimony Dihydrate, and Tinuvin-P.

7. The method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a step of coating said support member with a pigment paste comprising a dry pigment, plasticizer, and a dispersing agent.

8. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said first paste is heated at a temperature in the range of 165-175°C to form said skin coat (200).

9. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said first paste is heated at a temperature in the range of 190-200°C to form foam coat (400).

10. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said support member with skin coat (200), said foam coat (400), said adhesive coat (600) and fabric layer (800) is heated at a temperature in the range of 165-175°C.

11. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said mixing of said plurality of constituents is performed by a three roll mill to obtain a homogenous paste.

12. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said plurality of pastes are applied at a line speed of 10 meters per minute.

13. A light-transmitting leatherette (1000), comprising:
a first layer of a skin coat (200) having a first paste;
a second layer of a foam coat (400) having said first paste;
a third layer of an adhesive coat (600) having a second paste; and
a fourth layer of a fabric (800);
wherein each of said first layer, second layer, third layer and fourth layer are sequentially arranged from bottom to top;
wherein said first paste comprises a mixture of said polymer, plasticizer, stabilizer, pigments, and additives;
wherein said second paste comprises a mixture of said polymer, plasticizer, stabilizer, and additives;
wherein said polymer is present in an amount of 100 PHR (parts per hundred), plasticizer in an amount of 50-70 PHR, stabilizer in an amount of 3-4 PHR, and pigments in an amount of 12-18 PHR.

14. The light-transmitting leatherette (1000) as claimed in claim 13, wherein said polymer is Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), plasticizer is Dioctyl terephthalate (DOTP), and said fabric (800) is a Polyethersulfone (PES) knit fabric.

15. The light-transmitting leatherette (1000) as claimed in claim 13, wherein said polymer is electro conductive polymer.

16. The light-transmitting leatherette (1000) as claimed in claim 13, wherein said pigments are selected form a group consisting of titanium dioxide, and red oxide (black oxide or yellow pigment).

17. The light-transmitting leatherette (1000) as claimed in claim 13, wherein said additives are selected form a group consisting of Antimony Trioxide, Antimony Dihydrate, and Tinuvin-P.

18. The light-transmitting leatherette (1000) as claimed in claim 13, wherein said skin coat (200) is further coupled with LED strips.