Apr 24 2009
The latest floor graphics technology from MacDermid Autotype, the leading European manufacturer of specialised hard coated films and chemicals, is being used by one of the UK’s Independent Living Centres, which demonstrates equipment and aids for people with disabilities. The innovative FootPrint floor graphics system, designed by 4D Creations and installed by The Marketing Company (TMC), combines a specially developed film substrate with a proprietary adhesive, enabling the centre to decorate its premises in a way that is both visually appealing and safe.
4D Creations and The Marketing Company jointly design and produce bespoke displays for supermarkets, DIY superstores and other retail environments and visitor centres. Together, they provide a complete service that includes consultation, design, printing, metalwork and installation, providing clients with high quality displays that convey information effectively and have a positive impact on sales.
TMC was asked to create an innovative display that would decorate the floor of one of 40 Government funded Independent Living Centres in the UK, designed to provide disabled people with access to the latest equipment and aids. To ensure the floor graphics would be safe to walk on and to wheelchair users, in addition to being clear and eye catching, The Marketing Company needed a fit for purpose floor graphics system.
TMC looked at a number of available solutions and were interested in FootPrint from MacDermid Autotype. Richard Habergham, Head of Design, explained, “The FootPrint system seemed ideal for our requirements, combining visual quality with safety. After a specialist from MacDermid Autotype showed us how easy the system was to handle and apply, we were sure that it was the right choice.”
FootPrint is a simple, two-part floor graphics system that is considerably easier to use and more durable than conventional vinyl solutions. The top layer is hard-coated for scratch and solvent resistance, and UL listed for slip resistance. This layer is reverse printed using aqueous dye, pigment or UV curing inks and laminated to the FootPrint High Traffic adhesive.
Dependable long term adhesion was essential for the Independent Living application, to ensure that the floor graphics wouldn’t pose a safety hazard to visitors. Likewise, it was important that the graphics didn’t appear slippery, as this would be likely to deter people from walking over them. The FootPrint system combined reliable adhesion with a micro-fine textured matt finish to meet both of these requirements and ensure the display would remain effective for as long as it was needed.
Using the FootPrint film with its in house printers, TMC was able to deliver the solution to the Independent Living centre quickly and cost effectively. The complete floor graphics solution covers an area of 1km2, providing vibrant and consistent branding around the centre and helping visitors to find their way around.
Richard Habergham commented, “The FootPrint system made it easy for us to meet our client’s brief. Not only do the finished graphics look great, we can also be sure that they are safe, which is particularly important in this case. We’re extremely happy with the results.”