Polymeric component with injected, embedded ink and apparatus and method for manufacturing same

A method for manufacturing an article comprising:

• inserting at least one needle into a polymeric component that includes multiple layers and has a thickness;
• wherein the inserting is to a depth less than the thickness so that the needle does not penetrate entirely through the polymeric component;
• injecting ink into at least a portion of the polymeric component through the inserted needle so that the ink is embedded in at least one of the layers as a graphical image in the portion of the polymeric component;
• determining via a controller whether a predetermined ink drying time has elapsed after the injecting;
• moving the polymeric component only if said predetermined ink drying time has elapsed;
• and
• injecting ink into the polymeric component at a different region of the polymeric component through said at least one needle after moving the polymeric component.

A method for manufacturing an article comprising:

• inserting at least one needle into a polymeric component that includes multiple layers and has a thickness;
• wherein the inserting is to a depth less than the thickness so that the needle does not penetrate entirely through the polymeric component;
• injecting ink into at least a portion of the polymeric component through the inserted needle so that the ink is embedded in at least one of the layers as a graphical image in the portion of the polymeric component;
• and
• inflating the polymeric component with a fluid.