Transfer-completed film and method for producing transfer-completed film

Abstract

The transfer-finished film is formed by sequentially laminating a transparent film, a laminated body of a first ink layer and a second ink layer having a color different from that of the first ink layer, and a base material layer, the first ink layer and the second ink layer are transfer layers that are transferred by an ink ribbon including a laminate of the first ink layer and the second ink layer. The transfer layer may be formed by thermal melt transfer. The laminate of the first ink layer and the second ink layer includes a surface-side ink layer close to the transparent film and a back-side ink layer on the opposite side thereof, and the transparent film may be thicker than the surface-side ink layer.

Description

[0001] Related Application

[0002] This application corresponds to Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-125297 filed with the Japan Patent Office on August 5, 2022, and all disclosed contents of the application are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a transferred film having a transfer layer including at least two ink layers of different colors recorded thereon, and a method for producing the transferred film. Background Art

[0004] Patent document 1 discloses a printing device for a transfer sheet, which comprises: a supply unit for a first sheet, wherein the first sheet is formed by laminating a dissolving layer and a sealing layer on a base sheet; a printing mechanism, which prints graphics and / or text on the surface of the sealing layer of the supplied first sheet; a supply unit for a second sheet, wherein the second sheet is formed by laminating an adhesive layer and a peeling sheet on a covering sheet; a peeling mechanism, which peels off the peeling sheet to which the adhesive layer is attached from the covering sheet of the supplied second sheet; and a bonding mechanism, which combines the surface of the peeling sheet to which the adhesive layer is formed and the surface of the first sheet to which printing is applied and bonds them together via the adhesive layer.

[0005] Prior art literature

[0006] Patent Literature

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 11-170663 Summary of the invention

[0008] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0009] One embodiment of the present disclosure provides a transferred film and a method for manufacturing the same, wherein in the transferred film having a transfer layer of a laminate including at least two ink layers of different colors recorded thereon, it is possible to suppress observation of the color of the end of the ink layer hidden in the surface ink layer.

[0010] Solutions to Solve Problems

[0011] The transferred film involved in one embodiment of the present disclosure is formed by sequentially stacking a transparent film, a first ink layer, a second ink layer having a color different from the first ink layer, and a substrate layer, wherein the first ink layer and the second ink layer are transfer layers formed by transferring the first ink layer and the second ink layer using an ink ribbon of the stack of the first ink layer and the second ink layer.

[0012] Effects of the Invention

[0013] According to the transferred film involved in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the stack of the first ink layer and the second ink layer is covered with a transparent film. As a result, the transparent film can be used to refract light incident on the stack of ink layers through the transparent film. As a result, when the ink layer (surface-side ink layer) close to the transparent film in the stack of ink layers is observed through the transparent film from an oblique or horizontal direction, it is possible to suppress the observation of the end color of the ink layer hidden in the surface-side ink layer. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] Figure 1 This is a diagram schematically showing the structure of a printing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical structure of the printing device.

[0016] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram for explaining a heating process and a cooling process of the printing apparatus.

[0017] Figure 4A as well as Figure 4B This is a schematic diagram for explaining a cooling process and a transfer process of the printing device.

[0018] Figure 5A This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a layer structure of a transferred belt according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 5B This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the layer structure of the transferred belt according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 5C This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a layer structure of a transferred belt according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Fig. 6A as well as Figure 6B This is a diagram showing an example of a printing pattern by the printing device.

[0022] Figure 7 It is used for Figure 5A A diagram illustrating the refraction of light in a transferred tape.

[0023] Figure 8 It is used for Figure 5B A diagram illustrating the refraction of light in a transferred tape.

[0024] Fig. 9 This is a diagram for explaining the evaluation method for oblique observation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following detailed description, there are a plurality of components with names labeled with ordinal numbers, but the ordinal numbers are not necessarily the same as the ordinal numbers of the components described in the claims.

[0026] [Overall Structure of Printing Device 1]

[0027] Figure 1 It is a diagram schematically showing the structure of a printing device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Reference Figure 1 The printing device 1 is a thermal transfer type thermal printer that transfers ink from an ink ribbon 3 as an example of a thermal transfer recording medium to a printing tape 2 as an example of a printed medium as text. In the present embodiment, the printing tape 2 is, for example, a transparent base film to which the ink is directly transferred. Here, the so-called "transparent" of the printing tape 2 can be defined as the printing tape 2 having a degree of transparency that allows the shape and color of the text transferred to the printing tape 2 to be recognized from the opposite side of the transfer surface (printing surface).

[0029] The characters recorded on the printing tape 2 may include typical characters, symbols such as barcodes and QR codes (registered trademarks), numbers, patterns, designs, etc. The printing device 1 according to this embodiment can record characters of different colors (for example, black and red) on the printing tape 2 .

[0030] The printing device 1 mainly includes a housing 4 , a tape cassette 5 accommodated in the housing 4 , a thermal head 6 , a platen roller 7 , a nip roller 71 , and a control substrate 8 .

[0031] The housing 4 may be a box-shaped member made of a plastic shell, for example. An outlet 9 for taking out the printed printing tape 2 is formed on the outer wall of the housing 4. A cutter (not shown) may be provided near the outlet 9. By cutting with the cutter, the printing tape 2 can be separated into labels of the size of each unit for use and taken out.

[0032] The tape cassette 5 may be a detachable cassette relative to the housing 4. The tape cassette 5 may be inserted in the tape conveying direction D1 (in the direction of Figure 1 The printing tape roll 10 (in other words, it may also be a label tape roll), the ink ribbon roll 12, the ink ribbon peeling member 13, the ink ribbon winding roll 14, the laminating roll 72, and the laminating film roll 73 are sequentially accommodated from the upstream side to the downstream side (in the direction from the right side to the left side). In the present embodiment, the printing tape roll 10, the ink ribbon roll 12, the laminating roll 72, and the laminating film roll 73 are of the type used in the state of being accommodated in the tape box 5, but they may also be of the type directly assembled to the printing device 1 for use, for example.

[0033] The printing tape roll 10 is produced by winding the printing tape 2 into a cylindrical shape, and is rotatably held in the tape cassette 5 , for example.

[0034] The ink ribbon roller 12 is made by winding the ink ribbon 3 into a cylindrical shape, and is rotatably held in the ribbon cassette 5, for example. The ink ribbon drive shaft 18 provided in the housing 4 is inserted into the ink ribbon winding roller 14. The rotational force R1 generated by the driving of the ink ribbon drive shaft 18 is transmitted to the ink ribbon winding roller 14, so that the ink ribbon winding roller 14 rotates.

[0035] The ink ribbon stripping member 13 may be a guide member for changing the conveying direction D2 of the ink ribbon 3. The ink ribbon stripping member 13 may have a shape capable of abutting against the ink ribbon 3 being conveyed, for example, may have a roller shape or a blade shape. The ink ribbon 3 is partially thermally pressed against the printing ribbon 2 by the thermal head 6, and is conveyed toward the removal port 9 together with the printing ribbon 2. The ink ribbon stripping member 13 abuts against the ink ribbon 3 in the middle of conveying, and causes the conveying direction D2 of the ink ribbon 3 to be suddenly changed relative to the conveying direction D1 of the printing ribbon 2. As a result, the printing ribbon 2 and the ink ribbon 3 are separated, and the ink ribbon 3 is stripped from the printing ribbon 2.

[0036] The laminating roller 72 can be inserted with, for example, a laminating roller drive shaft 75 provided in the housing 4. The rotational force R4 generated by the driving of the laminating roller drive shaft 75 is transmitted to the laminating roller 72, so that the laminating roller 72 rotates. Figure 1 As shown, it is provided inside the tape cassette 5 and partially exposed on the conveying path of the printing tape 2. Thus, in a state where the tape cassette 5 is provided, the printing tape 2 can be conveyed while being sandwiched between the laminating roller 72 and the pinch roller 71.

[0037] The laminating film roll 73 is produced by winding a laminating tape 76 into a cylindrical shape, and the laminating film roll 73 is rotatably held in the tape cassette 5 , for example.

[0038] The thermal head 6 is disposed between the printing tape roller 10 and the ink ribbon roller 12 and the ink ribbon peeling member 13 in the conveying direction D1 of the printing tape 2. The thermal head 6 includes a substrate 19 and a heating element 20 (such as a heating resistor) formed on the substrate 19. The Joule heat generated by the conduction of electricity to the heating element 20 is used for thermal transfer of the ink of the ink ribbon 3.

[0039] For example, a platen drive shaft 21 provided in the housing 4 is inserted into the platen roller 7. A rotational force R generated by driving the platen drive shaft 21 is transmitted to the platen roller 7, and the platen roller 7 rotates.

[0040] A pinch roller drive shaft 74 provided in the housing 4, for example, is inserted into the pinch roller 71. A rotational force R3 generated by driving the pinch roller drive shaft 74 is transmitted to the pinch roller 71, and the pinch roller 71 rotates.

[0041] The control board 8 is an electronic device that performs electrical control of the printing device 1 , and is provided inside the housing 4 .

[0042] [Electrical Structure of Printing Device 1]

[0043] Figure 2 It is a block diagram showing the electrical structure of the printing device 1 .

[0044] Reference Figure 2 The control circuit 22 is provided on the control substrate 8 of the printing device 1. The control circuit 22 may include a CPU 23, a ROM 24, a memory 25, a RAM 26, and an input / output I / F 27 (interface). These are electrically connected via a data bus (not shown), for example.

[0045] The ROM 24 stores various programs for driving the printing device 1 (for example, Figure 3 as well as Figure 4A , B, etc.). The CPU 23 uses the temporary storage function of the RAM 26 and performs signal processing according to the program stored in the ROM 24, thereby controlling the printing device 1 as a whole. The memory 25 can be composed of, for example, a part of the storage area of ​​the ROM 24. The memory 25 can store in advance a table for displaying the remaining amount (consumption) of the ink ribbon 3 on the display unit (not shown) of the housing 4.

[0046] The first drive circuit 28 and the second drive circuit 29 are electrically connected to the input / output I / F 27. The first drive circuit 28 performs power-on control of the heating element 20 of the thermal head 6. The second drive circuit 29 performs drive control of outputting drive pulses to the drive motor 30 that drives the ribbon winding roller 14, the platen roller 7, the clamping roller 71, and the laminating roller 72 to rotate.

[0047] [Flow of Printing Process by Printing Device 1]

[0048] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram for explaining a heating process and a cooling process of the printing apparatus 1 . Figure 4A as well as Figure 4B This is a schematic diagram for explaining a cooling process and a transfer process of the printing device 1 . Figure 4B is from Figure 4A An enlarged view of the main part when observing the transfer pattern in the direction of arrow 4B. Figure 1 , Figure 3 as well as Figure 4A , B describes in detail the printing process performed by the printing device 1.

[0049] In order to print characters on the printing tape 2, the printing tape 2 is pulled out from the printing tape roller 10 by the rotation drive of the platen roller 7, and the ink ribbon 3 is pulled out from the ink ribbon roller 12 by the rotation drive of the ink ribbon winding roller 14. Figure 1 as well as Figure 3 As shown, the printing ribbon 2 and the ink ribbon 3 are conveyed toward the downstream side in a state of overlapping each other. In the printing ribbon 2, the surface on the ink ribbon 3 side is a printing surface 31 (front surface), and the surface on the opposite side is a back surface 32. In the ink ribbon 3, the surface on the printing ribbon 2 side is an adhesive surface 33 (front surface), and the surface on the opposite side is a back surface 34.

[0050] Reference Figure 3 The ink ribbon 3 includes a base layer 35, a first ink layer 36, and a second ink layer 37. The first ink layer 36 and the second ink layer 37 are stacked in this order on a surface 38 of the base layer 35 as an example of a first surface. The surface opposite to the surface 38 of the base layer 35 is a back surface 39 (back surface 34 of the ink ribbon 3). The first ink layer 36 and the second ink layer 37 contain colorants of different colors. For example, the first ink layer 36 may contain a black colorant, and the second ink layer 37 may contain a red colorant.

[0051] The ink ribbon 3 is conveyed toward the thermal head 6 in a state where the second ink layer 37 is in contact with the printing ribbon 2. In the thermal head 6, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 Specifically, the heating element 20, which generates heat due to power supply, is pressed against the ink ribbon 3, so that the heat is transferred to the first ink layer 36 and the second ink layer 37 via the base material layer 35. The stack of the ink ribbon 3 and the printing ribbon 2 is sandwiched between the thermal head 6 and the platen roller 7, and is transported to the downstream side while being heated by the thermal head 6.

[0052] The heating element 20 can be controlled to have the same temperature as a whole, or to have different temperatures in parts. Figure 3 As shown, the first portion 40 of the heating element 20 may be controlled to a relatively low first heating temperature, and the second portion 41 of the heating element 20 may be controlled to a second heating temperature higher than the first heating temperature. The first heating temperature may be controlled by applying a relatively low first energy to the thermal head 6, and the second heating temperature may be controlled by applying a relatively high second energy to the thermal head 6 compared to the first energy.

[0053] The first heating temperature may be, for example, 60°C or more and 120°C or less, preferably 70°C or more and 90°C or less. For example, the second heating temperature may be 80°C or more and 180°C or less, preferably 130°C or more and 150°C or less. The first energy and the second energy may be set to match the specification of the printing device 1 in such a manner that the thermal head 6 is heated to the first heating temperature and the second heating temperature, respectively. For example, in a printing device 1 having a specification in which the applied energy can be set directly by a voltage value, the voltage value may be set, and in a printing device 1 having a specification in which the applied energy is increased or decreased by adjusting the energy divided into a plurality of levels, an appropriate level of energy may be set.

[0054] Thus, the ink ribbon 3 may include a first portion 42 heated at a first heating temperature and a second portion 43 heated at a second heating temperature. In the first portion 42 and the second portion 43 of the ink ribbon 3, at least a portion or all of the first ink layer 36 and the second ink layer 37 are melted or softened, thereby being in close contact with the printing tape 2.

[0055] Reference Figure 3 as well as Figure 4A , B, a cooling process is performed in the area between the thermal head 6 and the ink ribbon stripping member 13. Specifically, the ink ribbon 3 that is thermally pressed to the printing ribbon 2 in the heating process is naturally cooled in the area from the thermal head 6 to the ink ribbon stripping member 13, and the temperature is reduced toward the use environment temperature of the printing device 1.

[0056] Next, if Figure 4A As shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 , only the conveying direction D2 of the ink ribbon 3 is selectively changed by the ink ribbon peeling member 13, so that an external force F1 is applied to the base layer 35 and the second ink layer 37 in a direction away from each other. As a result, the printing ribbon 2 and the ink ribbon 3 are separated, and the ink ribbon 3 is wound around the ink ribbon winding roller 14. At this time, the first portion 42 and the second portion 43 of the ink ribbon 3 that have been heated by the thermal head 6 selectively remain on the printing ribbon 2, thereby performing the transfer process. For example, in the first portion 42, peeling may occur between the base layer 35 and the laminated body including the first ink layer 36 and the second ink layer 37, thereby transferring the laminated body. On the other hand, in the second portion 43, peeling may occur between the first ink layer 36 and the second ink layer 37, thereby selectively transferring the second ink layer 37.

[0057] Then, if Figure 1 As shown, the laminating tape 76 is attached to the printing tape 2 to which the first ink layer 36 and the second ink layer 37 are transferred. The transferred tape 55 on which characters are recorded and formed by laminating the laminating tape 76 to the printing tape 2 is taken out from the take-out port 9 of the printing device 1.

[0058] [Layer Structure of Transferred Belt 55]

[0059] Figure 5A as well as Figure 5B It is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the layer structure of the transferred belt 55 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 6A as well as Figure 6B This is a diagram showing an example of a printed pattern 44 by the printing device 1 .

[0060] Reference Figure 5A as well as Figure 5B The transferred tape 55 is largely divided into two layer structures according to the type of the printing tape 2 . Figure 5A The transferred tape 55A of the printing tape 2 including a transparent base film (base tape) as an example of a transparent film is shown. Figure 5B The transferred tape 55B is shown including the printing tape 2 which is a non-transparent base film (base tape). The layer structures of the transferred tape 55A and the transferred tape 55B will be described below.

[0061] <Transfer completed belt 55A>

[0062] Reference Figure 5A The transferred tape 55A includes: a printed matter 56 including the printing tape 2 to which a part of the ink ribbon 3 is transferred; and a laminating tape 76 laminating to the printed matter 56. The laminating tape 76 may also be called a laminating film. Figure 5A The cross section of the portion of the transferred belt 55A to which the first ink layer 36 and the second ink layer 37 are transferred as the first transfer layer 57 is shown, and the cross section of the portion to which the second ink layer 37 is selectively transferred as the second transfer layer of the transferred belt 55A is omitted.

[0063] In the transferred tape 55A of the present embodiment, the laminating tape 76 is formed as a backing film supporting the first transfer layer 57. The printing tape 2 is formed as a transparent cover film that physically protects the first transfer layer 57 from external influences. Therefore, in the first transfer layer 57, the second ink layer 37 on the side close to the printing tape 2 is a surface side ink layer (observation side ink layer). As shown by the hollow arrow 59, people can recognize the colors of the first ink layer 36 and the second ink layer 37 by the light that passes through the printing tape 2 and is reflected by the first ink layer 36 or the second ink layer 37.

[0064] A printed pattern 44 of different colors (for example, two colors recognized as black and red) is formed on the transfer-finished belt 55A. Fig. 6A As shown, the printed pattern 44 can have different colors for individual characters. Fig. 6AIn the example, when the printed pattern 44 is observed from the back side 32 of the printing tape 2, a red pattern 45 based on the second ink layer 37 can be recognized on the outermost surface of the letters "A" and "C", and a black pattern 46 based on the first ink layer 36 can be recognized on the outermost surface of "B". Figure 6B As shown, the printed pattern 44 can recognize both a red pattern 45 and a black pattern 46 for each character portion.

[0065] Next, the layer structure of the transferred belt 55A will be described in more detail.

[0066] As described above, the transferred tape 55A is formed by laminating the printed matter 56 and the laminating tape 76 .

[0067] The printed material 56 includes the printing tape 2 and a first transfer layer 57 selectively formed on the printing surface 31 of the printing tape 2. The first transfer layer 57 includes the second ink layer 37 and the first ink layer 36 sequentially stacked on the printing surface 31.

[0068] (1) Printing tape 2

[0069] The printing tape 2 is not particularly limited as long as it is a transparent base film to which ink is directly transferred, and examples thereof include resin films such as polyester, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyamide, polyimide, polycarbonate, polystyrene, and fluororesin. Among them, a film of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) as a polyester is preferred from the viewpoints of mechanical strength, dimensional stability, heat treatment resistance, price, etc. The printing tape 2 may be a single layer of any of the above resin films, or a laminated film formed by laminating a plurality of the above resin films.

[0070] The printing tape 2 can be formed of the above-mentioned various resin films, but can also be selected based on the refractive index of the resin film. For example, the refractive index of the printing tape 2 is 1.4 or more, preferably 1.5 or more, and more preferably 1.6 or more. The refractive index can be, for example, the refractive index measured by a spectroscopic ellipsometer.

[0071] The thickness of the printing tape 2 can be arbitrarily set according to the specifications of the thermal transfer printer, the characteristics required of the printing tape 2, etc. For example, the thickness of the printing tape 2 is 1 μm or more, preferably 2 μm or more, and more preferably 5 μm or more. For example, the thickness of the printing tape 2 is 30 μm or less, preferably 15 μm or less, and more preferably 10 μm or less. For example, the thickness of the printing tape 2 is 1 μm or more and 30 μm or less, preferably 2 μm or more and 15 μm or less, and more preferably 5 μm or more and 10 μm or less.

[0072] As long as the thickness of the printing tape 2 is within this range, the transfer tape 55A can be given appropriate flexibility and exhibit sufficient mechanical strength and elasticity. If the flexibility of the transfer tape 55A is emphasized, the printing tape 2 can be made thinner than the above range. Thus, even for a complex curved surface, the transfer tape 55A can be well pasted. On the other hand, if the mechanical strength and elasticity of the transfer tape 55A are emphasized, the printing tape 2 can be made thicker than the above range. Thus, the printing tape 2 can be prevented from wrinkling during the transportation of the printing device 1 and the laminating of the laminating tape 76. In addition, the thickness of the printing tape 2 is preferably greater than the thickness of the second ink layer 37 described later.

[0073] The printing tape 2 may be a non-stretched film that is not stretched during the manufacturing process, or a stretched film that is stretched by uniaxial stretching, biaxial stretching, or the like. In addition, the surface of the printing tape 2 (printing surface 31 and back surface 32) may be subjected to surface finishing such as gloss processing and matte processing. In addition, a primer layer for improving the printability of the printing tape 2, an outer coating for adjusting the friction force, a release layer using silicone for protecting the surface of the printing tape 2 before use, etc. may also be formed separately. These layers may be part of the printing tape 2 in concept.

[0074] As a numerical value indicating the transparency of the printing tape 2, for example, the total light transmittance measured in accordance with JIS K 7361 can be used. The total light transmittance of the printing tape 2 can be, for example, 80% or more, preferably 85% or more. The total light transmittance of the printing tape 2 can be measured, for example, using a haze meter.

[0075] (2) First ink layer 36

[0076] The first ink layer 36 can be formed of any thermoplastic resin, for example. It is preferable to use epoxy resin as the thermoplastic resin for the first ink layer 36. The first ink layer 36 can be formed using epoxy resin in a state where a curing agent is not mixed (removed) as the thermoplastic resin.

[0077] Examples of epoxy resins include bisphenol A epoxy resins, bisphenol F epoxy resins, phenol novolac epoxy resins, cresol novolac epoxy resins, alicyclic epoxy resins, hydrogenated bisphenol A epoxy resins, hydrogenated bisphenol AD ​​epoxy resins, propylene glycol glycoxyether, pentaerythritol polyglycidyl ether and other aliphatic epoxy resins, epoxy resins obtained from aliphatic or aromatic amines and epichlorohydrin, epoxy resins obtained from aliphatic or aromatic carboxylic acids and epichlorohydrin, heterocyclic epoxy resins, spiro-ring-containing epoxy resins, epoxy-modified resins, brominated epoxy resins, etc. Specific examples of epoxy resins are not particularly limited, and examples thereof include the following various epoxy resins. These epoxy resins can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0078] Among the substantially solid epoxy resins of the JER (registered trademark) series manufactured by Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation, 1001 [softening point (ring and ball method): 64°C, number average molecular weight Mn: about 900], 1002 [softening point (ring and ball method): 78°C, number average molecular weight Mn: about 1200], 1003 [softening point (ring and ball method): 89°C, number average molecular weight Mn: about 1300], 1055 [softening point (ring and ball method): 93°C, number average molecular weight Mn: about 1600], 1004 [softening point (ring and ball method): 97°C, number average molecular weight Mn: about 1650], 1004AF [softening point (ring and ball method): 97°C, number average molecular weight Mn: about 2900〕、1009〔softening point (ring and ball method): 144℃、number average molecular weight Mn: about 3800〕、1010〔number average molecular weight Mn: about 5500〕、1003F〔softening point (ring and ball method): 96℃〕、1004F〔softening point (ring and ball method): 103℃〕、1005F、1009F〔softening point (ring and ball method): 144℃〕、1004FS〔softening point (ring and ball method): 100℃〕、1006FS〔softening point (ring and ball method): 112℃〕、1007FS〔softening point (ring and ball method): 124℃〕。

[0079] The softening point of the epoxy resin used in the first ink layer 360 is, for example, 95° C. or higher, preferably 110° C. or higher, and more preferably 125° C. or higher. If the softening point is within this range, the first ink layer 36 and the base layer 35 (see FIG. 3 ) can be prevented from fusing at a relatively low temperature during low-temperature transfer. Figure 3 as well as Figure 4A Since the low-temperature transfer range of the first ink layer 36 can be sufficiently extended to the high-temperature side, even if thermal transfer recording is performed continuously, turbidity of color tone can be suppressed.

[0080] The first ink layer 36 may contain an adhesive in addition to the epoxy resin. Examples of the adhesive include rubber adhesives, acrylic adhesives, silicone adhesives, vinyl alkyl ether adhesives, polyvinyl alcohol adhesives, polyvinyl pyrrolidone adhesives, polyacrylamide adhesives, and cellulose adhesives.

[0081] If considering the situation of improving affinity and compatibility with epoxy resin, acrylic adhesive is preferably used as adhesive. As the specific example of acrylic adhesive, there is no particular restriction, for example, the following various acrylic adhesives can be listed. These acrylic adhesives can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0082] BPS1109 (non-volatile content: 39.5% by mass), BPS3156D (non-volatile content: 34% by mass), BPS4429-4 (non-volatile content: 45% by mass), BPS4849-40 (non-volatile content: 40% by mass), BPS5160 (non-volatile content: 33% by mass), BPS5213K (non-volatile content: 35% by mass), BPS5160 (non-volatile content: 33% by mass), BPS5213K (non-volatile content: 35% by mass), BPS5156D (non-volatile content: 34 ...56D (non-volatile content: 34% by mass), BPS5156D (non-volatile content: 34% by mass), BPS5156D (non-volatile content: 34% by mass), %), BPS5215K (non-volatile content: 39 mass %), BPS5227-1 (non-volatile content: 41.5 mass %), BPS5296 (non-volatile content: 37 mass %), BPS5330 (non-volatile content: 40 mass %), BPS5375 (non-volatile content: 45 mass %), BPS5448 (non-volatile content: 40 mass %), BPS5513 (non-volatile content: 44.5 mass %), BPS5565 K (non-volatile content: 45 mass%), BPS5669K (non-volatile content: 46 mass%), BPS5762K (non-volatile content: 45.5 mass%), BPS5896 (non-volatile content: 37 mass%), BPS5978 (non-volatile content: 35 mass%), BPS6074HTF (non-volatile content: 52 mass%), BPS6080TFK (non-volatile content: 45 mass%), BPS6130 ... Component: 45.5 mass %), BPS6153K (non-volatile component: 25 mass %), BPS6163 (non-volatile component: 37 mass %), BPS6231 (non-volatile component: 56 mass %), BPS6421 (non-volatile component: 47 mass %), BPS6430 (non-volatile component: 33 mass %), BPS6574 (non-volatile component: 57 mass %), BPS8170 (non-volatile component: 36.5 mass %), BPS HS-1 (non-volatile component: 40 mass %).

[0083] Among the solvent-based adhesives (re-peelable type) manufactured by Lion Chemical Co., Ltd., AS-325 (solid content concentration: 45 mass %), AS-375 (solid content concentration: 45 mass %), AS-409 (solid content concentration: 45 mass %), AS-417 (solid content concentration: 45 mass %), AS-425 (solid content concentration: 45 mass %), AS-455 (solid content concentration: 45 mass %), AS-665 (solid content concentration: 40 mass %), AS-1107 (solid content concentration: 43 mass %), and AS-4005 (solid content concentration: 45 mass %).

[0084] The acrylic adhesive used in the first ink layer 36 may be used in combination with a tackifier. This is because, for example, the breakability of the first ink layer 36 can be improved, unnecessary peeling can be suppressed, and the clarity of the recorded text can be improved. Examples of the tackifier include ester gum, terpene phenol resin, rosin ester, etc. Specific examples of the tackifier are not particularly limited, and examples include the following various tackifiers. These tackifiers can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0085] Terpene-phenol resins of the YS Polyster series manufactured by Yasuhara Chemical Co., Ltd. include U130 (softening point: 130±5°C), U115 (softening point: 115±5°C), T160 (softening point: 160±5°C), T145 (softening point: 145±5°C), T130 (softening point: 130±5°C), T115 (softening point: 115±5°C), T100 (softening point: 100±5°C), T80 (softening point: 80±5°C), S145 (softening point: 145±5°C), G150 (softening point: 150±5°C), G125 (softening point: 125±5°C), N125 (softening point: 125±5°C), K125 (softening point: 125±5°C), and TH130 (softening point: 130±5°C).

[0086] Among Ester Gum manufactured by Arakawa Chemical Industries, Ltd., AA-G [softening point (ring and ball method): 82 to 88°C], AA-L [softening point (ring and ball method): 82 to 88°C], AA-V [softening point (ring and ball method): 82 to 95°C], 105 [softening point (ring and ball method): 100 to 110°C], AT [viscosity: 20,000 to 40,000 mPa·s], H [softening point (ring and ball method): 68 to 75°C], HP [softening point (ring and ball method): 80°C or more].

[0087] Among the Pensel (registered trademark) series of rosin esters manufactured by Arakawa Chemical Industries, Ltd., GA-100 [softening point (ring and ball method): 100 to 110°C], AZ [softening point (ring and ball method): 950 to 105°C], C [softening point (ring and ball method): 117 to 127°C], D-125 [softening point (ring and ball method): 120 to 130°C], D-135 [softening point (ring and ball method): 130 to 140°C], D-160 [softening point (ring and ball method): 150 to 165°C], and KK [softening point (ring and ball method): 165°C or more].

[0088] The softening point of the thickener used in the first ink layer 36 is, for example, 60° C. or higher, preferably 120° C. or lower. If the softening point is within this range, the first ink layer 36 can be well reversely transferred to the substrate layer 48 during high-temperature transfer. Since the high-temperature transfer range of the first ink layer 36 can be sufficiently extended to the low-temperature side, turbidity of the color tone can be suppressed.

[0089] The first ink layer 36 may contain any colorant. As the colorant, one or more various colorants corresponding to the color tone of the first ink layer 36 may be used. As the colorant, for example, pigments and dyes may be used. Considering the concealment of the substrate, it is preferred to use a pigment as the colorant used in the first ink layer 36. In the transferred tape 55A, the black color of the first ink layer 36 is identified by light that passes through the transparent printing tape 2 and the second ink layer 37 and is reflected by the first ink layer 36. That is, by suppressing the transmission of light through the first ink layer 36, the black color of the first ink layer 36 can be well identified through the printing tape 2 and the second ink layer 37. For example, carbon black is preferably used as a pigment for coloring the first ink layer 36 in black. As a specific example of carbon black, there is no particular limitation, and for example, the following various carbon blacks can be listed. These carbon blacks can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0090] MA77 powder made by Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation〔LFF, DBP absorption: 68cm 3 / 100g〕、MA7 powder〔LFF、DBP absorption: 66cm 3 / 100g〕、MA7 granular〔LFF、DBP absorption: 65cm 3 / 100g〕、MA8 powder〔LFF、DBP absorption: 57cm 3 / 100g〕、MA8 granular〔LFF、DBP absorption: 51cm 3 / 100g〕、MA11 powder〔LFF、DBP absorption: 64cm 3 / 100g〕、MA100 powder〔LFF、DBP absorption: 100cm 3 / 100g〕、MA100 granular〔LFF、DBP absorption: 95cm 3 / 100g〕、MA100R powder〔LFF、DBP absorption: 100cm 3 / 100g〕、MA100R granular〔LFF、DBP absorption: 95cm 3 / 100g〕、MA100S powder〔LFF、DBP absorption: 100cm 3 / 100g〕、MA230 powder〔LFF、DBP absorption: 113cm 3 / 100g〕、MA220 powder〔LFF、DBP absorption: 93cm 3 / 100g〕、MA14 powder〔LFF、DBP absorption: 73cm 3 / 100g〕.

[0091] Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation #3030B (furnace method, DBP absorption: 130 cm 3 / 100g)、#3040B(Furnace method, DBP absorption: 114cm 3 / 100g)、#3050B(Furnace method, DBP absorption: 175cm 3 / 100g), #3230B (furnace method, DBP absorption: 140cm 3 / 100g)、#3350B(Furnace method, DBP absorption: 164cm 3 / 100g), #3400B (furnace method, DBP absorption: 175cm 3 / 100g).

[0092] Tokablack (registered trademark) series manufactured by Tokai Carbon Co., Ltd., #5500 (furnace method, DBP absorption: 155 cm 3 / 100g)、#4500(Furnace method, DBP absorption: 168cm 3 / 100g)、#4400(Furnace method, DBP absorption: 135cm 3 / 100g)、#4300(Furnace method, DBP absorption: 142cm 3 / 100g).

[0093] ORION ENGINEERED CARBONS PRINTEX (Japanese: プリンテックス; registered trademark) series L (furnace method, DBP absorption: 120cm 3 / 100g), L6 (furnace method, DBP absorption: 126cm 3 / 100g).

[0094] Birla Carbon's CONDUCTEX (Japanese: コンダクテックス; registered trademark) series, 975 (furnace method, 170cm 3 / 100g), SC (furnace method, 115cm 3 / 100g).

[0095] CABOT's VULCAN series, XC72 (furnace method, DBP absorption: 174 cm 3 / 100g), 9A32 (furnace method, DBP absorption: 114cm 3 / 100g), 3700 (furnace method, DBP absorption: 111cm 3 / 100g).

[0096] DenkaBlack (registered trademark) series manufactured by Denka Co., Ltd., DenkaBlack granular products (acetylene method, DBP absorption: 160cm 3 / 100g), FX-35 (acetylene method, DBP absorption: 220cm 3 / 100g), HS-100 (acetylene method, DBP absorption: 140cm 3 / 100g).

[0097] Lion Chemical Co., Ltd.'s Ketjenblack (registered trademark) series, EC300J (vaporization method, DBP absorption: 360 cm 3 / 100g), EC600DJ (vaporization method, DBP absorption: 495cm 3 / 100g).

[0098] The ratio of each component in the first ink layer 36 is not particularly limited. The ratio of the acrylic adhesive to 100 parts by mass of the epoxy resin is, for example, 30 parts by mass or more, preferably 40 parts by mass or more. The ratio of the acrylic adhesive to 100 parts by mass of the epoxy resin is, for example, 150 parts by mass or less, preferably 100 parts by mass or less. The ratio of the acrylic adhesive to 100 parts by mass of the epoxy resin is, for example, 30 parts by mass or more and 150 parts by mass or less, preferably 40 parts by mass or more and 100 parts by mass or less.

[0099] The ratio of the tackifier to 100 parts by mass of the epoxy resin is, for example, 3 parts by mass or more, preferably 5 parts by mass or more. The ratio of the tackifier to 100 parts by mass of the epoxy resin is, for example, 150 parts by mass or less, preferably 100 parts by mass or less. The ratio of the tackifier to 100 parts by mass of the epoxy resin is, for example, 3 parts by mass or more and 150 parts by mass or less, preferably 5 parts by mass or more and 100 parts by mass or less.

[0100] The ratio of the colorant such as carbon black to 100 parts by mass of the epoxy resin is, for example, 100 parts by mass or more, preferably 130 parts by mass or more. The ratio of the colorant to 100 parts by mass of the epoxy resin is, for example, 230 parts by mass or less, preferably 200 parts by mass or less. The ratio of the colorant to 100 parts by mass of the epoxy resin is, for example, 100 parts by mass or more and 230 parts by mass or less, preferably 130 parts by mass or more and 200 parts by mass or less.

[0101] It should be noted that, among the components contained in the first ink layer 36 , the components supplied in a liquid state dissolved or dispersed in an arbitrary solvent may be blended in an amount adjusted so that the ratio of the effective component therein is within the above range (the same applies hereinafter).

[0102] The first ink layer 36 can be formed, for example, by applying a coating prepared by dissolving or dispersing the above-mentioned components in an arbitrary solvent directly or via an arbitrary release layer on the surface 38 of the substrate layer 35 and then drying the coating. Fig. 6A as well as Figure 6B As shown, the text recorded on the printing tape 2 is color-separated. In order to perform this color separation, if the adjustment of the adhesion between the first ink layer 36 and the base layer 35 and other layers is taken into consideration, the first ink layer 36 is preferably formed directly on the surface 38 of the base layer 35 without the release layer.

[0103] The thickness of the first ink layer 36 can be arbitrarily set according to, for example, the specifications of the thermal transfer printer, etc. The thickness of the first ink layer 36 can be adjusted by the amount of the first ink layer 36 applied.

[0104] For example, the coating amount of the first ink layer 36 is 0.1 g / m 2 Above, preferably 0.5g / m 2 For example, the coating amount of the first ink layer 36 is 3.0 g / m 2 Below, preferably 2.5g / m 2 For example, the coating amount of the first ink layer 36 is expressed as 0.1 g / m 2 Above and 3.0g / m 2Below, preferably 0.5g / m 2 Above and 2.5g / m 2 the following.

[0105] The specific thickness of the first ink layer 36 (before printing) is, for example, 0.05 μm or more, preferably 0.5 μm or more. The thickness of the first ink layer 36 is, for example, 3.0 μm or less, preferably 2.5 μm or less. The thickness of the first ink layer 36 can be, for example, 0.05 μm or more and 3.0 μm or less, preferably 0.5 μm or more and 2.5 μm or less. The thickness of the first ink layer 36 can be confirmed based on, for example, a SEM (Scanning Electron Microscope) image or a TEM (Transmission Electron Microscope) image of the ink ribbon 3.

[0106] (3) Second ink layer 37

[0107] The second ink layer 37 can be formed of any thermoplastic resin, for example. Examples of the thermoplastic resin used in the second ink layer 37 include epoxy resin, polyester resin, polyolefin resin, etc. The thermoplastic resin can be appropriately selected according to the material of the printing ribbon 2. When the first ink layer 36 is formed of epoxy resin, it is preferred that the second ink layer 37 is also formed of epoxy resin.

[0108] By forming the second ink layer 37 with epoxy resin, the adhesion of the first ink layer 36 to the substrate layer 35 and the adhesion of the second ink layer 37 to the printing tape 2 can be balanced. As a result, the first ink layer 36 can be well separated to the substrate layer 35 side and the second ink layer 37 can be separated to the printing tape 2 side during high-temperature transfer. Since the high-temperature transfer range can be extended to the low-temperature side, the effect of suppressing color turbidity can be further improved. As the epoxy resin, various epoxy resins exemplified as the epoxy resin of the first ink layer 36 can be cited. These epoxy resins can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0109] The second ink layer 37 may contain wax in addition to the thermoplastic resin. By containing wax, the first ink layer 36 can be separated to the substrate layer 35 side and the second ink layer 37 can be separated to the printing tape 2 side during high-temperature transfer. Therefore, the high-temperature transfer range can be extended to the low-temperature side, and the effect of suppressing color turbidity can be further improved.

[0110] As the wax, any wax having affinity and compatibility with thermoplastic resins such as epoxy resins can be used. For example, natural waxes such as carnauba wax, paraffin wax, and microcrystalline wax, and synthetic waxes such as Fischer-Tropsch wax can be used. Specific examples of waxes are not particularly limited, and examples thereof include carnauba wax No. 1 flakes, No. 2 flakes, No. 3 flakes, No. 1 powder, and No. 2 powder (all of which have a melting point of 80 to 86°C) manufactured by Toyo Chemical Co., Ltd., paraffin waxes such as EMUSTAR-1155 (melting point: 69°C), EMUSTAR-0135 (melting point: 60°C), and EMUSTAR-0136 (melting point: 60°C) manufactured by Nippon Seiwa Co., Ltd., microcrystalline waxes such as EMUSTAR-0001 (melting point: 84°C) and EMUSTAR-042X (melting point: 84°C) manufactured by Nippon Seiwa Co., Ltd., and Fischer-Tropsch waxes such as FNP-0090 (freezing point: 90°C), SX80 (freezing point: 83°C), FT-0165 (melting point: 73°C), and FT-0070 (melting point: 72°C) manufactured by Nippon Seiwa Co., Ltd. These waxes can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0111] The second ink layer 37 may contain any colorant. As the colorant, one or more kinds of colorants corresponding to the color tone of the first ink layer 37 may be used. As the colorant, for example, pigments and dyes may be used. In the transferred tape 55A, the black color of the first ink layer 36 is recognized by light that passes through the transparent printing tape 2 and the second ink layer 37 and is reflected by the first ink layer 36. Therefore, from the viewpoint of ensuring transparency relative to the first ink layer 36, the second ink layer 37 preferably contains a colorant that contains at least a dye. The second ink layer 37 preferably contains only a dye as a colorant, but may also contain a dye and a pigment whose proportion is less than that of the dye.

[0112] As an index of the transparency of the first ink layer 36, the total light transmittance measured in accordance with JIS K 7361 can be used. The total light transmittance of the second ink layer 37 can be, for example, 16% or more, and preferably 16.5% or more.

[0113] For example, as dyes for coloring the second ink layer 37 in red, oil-soluble dyes, acid dyes, basic dyes, gold-containing dyes, or various salt-forming dyes thereof, the following various red dyes can be cited. These red pigments can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0114] CI Basic Red 1, 12, 13; CI Acid Red 13, 14, 18, 27, 50, 52; CI Solvent Red 25, 27, 30, 35, 49, 83, 89, 100, 122, 138, 149, 150, 160, 179, 218, 230; CI Direct Red 20, 37, 39, 44; CI Disperse Red 5, 7, 13, 17.

[0115] For example, the following various red pigments are listed as pigments for coloring the second ink layer 37 in red. These red pigments can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0116] CI Pigment Red 5, 7, 9, 12, 48 (Ca), 48 (Mn), 49, 52, 53, 53:1, 57 (Ca), 57:1, 97, 112, 122, 123, 149, 168, 177, 178, 179, 184, 202, 206, 207, 209, 242, 254, 255.

[0117] In addition, the L value of the color difference of the reflected light from the second ink layer 37 having the composition exemplified is 20 or less, preferably 15 or less, more preferably 10 or less, and particularly preferably 5 or less. The L value may be, for example, a reflection concentration (L value) measured when a light beam is incident from the second ink layer 37 side of the ink ribbon 3 using a reflection colorimeter. If the L value of the reflected light from the second ink layer 37 is within the above range, the transparency relative to the first ink layer 36 can be sufficiently ensured.

[0118] The ratio of each component in the second ink layer 37 is not particularly limited. The ratio of the wax to 100 parts by mass of the epoxy resin is, for example, 3 parts by mass or more, preferably 5 parts by mass or more. The ratio of the wax to 100 parts by mass of the epoxy resin is, for example, 11 parts by mass or less, preferably 9 parts by mass or less. The ratio of the wax to 100 parts by mass of the epoxy resin is, for example, 3 parts by mass or more and 11 parts by mass or less, preferably 5 parts by mass or more and 9 parts by mass or less.

[0119] The ratio of the colorant such as the red dye to 100 parts by mass of the epoxy resin (the total amount of the colorant) is, for example, 70 parts by mass or more, preferably 80 parts by mass or more. The ratio of the colorant such as the red dye to 100 parts by mass of the epoxy resin is, for example, 140 parts by mass or less, preferably 120 parts by mass or less. The ratio of the colorant such as the red dye to 100 parts by mass of the epoxy resin is, for example, 70 parts by mass or more and 140 parts by mass or less, preferably 80 parts by mass or more and 120 parts by mass or less.

[0120] The second ink layer 37 can be formed, for example, by applying a coating agent obtained by dissolving or dispersing the above-mentioned components in an arbitrary solvent on the first ink layer 36 and then drying the coating agent.

[0121] The thickness of the second ink layer 37 can be arbitrarily set according to the specifications of the thermal transfer printer, for example. The thickness of the second ink layer 37 can be adjusted by the coating amount of the second ink layer 37. For example, the coating amount of the second ink layer 37 is expressed as 0.2 g / m 2 Above, preferably 1.0 g / m 2 For example, the coating amount of the second ink layer 37 is 7.0 g / m 2 Below, preferably 5.0g / m 2 For example, the coating amount of the second ink layer 37 is 0.2 g / m 2 Above and 7.0g / m 2 Below, preferably 1.0g / m 2 Above and 5.0g / m 2 the following.

[0122] The specific thickness of the second ink layer 37 (before printing) is, for example, 0.05 μm or more, preferably 1.0 μm or more. The thickness of the second ink layer 37 is, for example, 7.0 μm or less, preferably 5.0 μm or less. The thickness of the second ink layer 37 can be, for example, 0.05 μm or more and 7.0 μm or less, preferably 1.0 μm or more and 5.0 μm or less. The thickness of the second ink layer 37 can be confirmed based on, for example, a SEM (Scanning Electron Microscope) image, a TEM (Transmission Electron Microscope) image, or the like of the ink ribbon 3.

[0123] It should be noted that, although not described, a separation layer, an intermediate layer, or the like that assists in separation of the first ink layer 36 and the second ink layer 37 may be formed between the first ink layer 36 and the second ink layer 37. The separation layer and the intermediate layer may be formed of, for example, a thermoplastic elastomer.

[0124] The laminating tape 76 includes a base layer 61, a first adhesive layer 62, a second adhesive layer 63, and a release layer 64. The first adhesive layer 62 is formed on the adhesive surface 65 of the base layer 61, and the second adhesive layer 63 is formed on the release surface 66 on the opposite side of the adhesive surface 65. The laminating tape 76 is attached to the printed matter 56 via the first adhesive layer 62.

[0125] (4) Base material layer 61

[0126] As the substrate layer 61, for example, films of resins such as polysulfone, polystyrene, polyamide, polyimide, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polyester, triacetate, thin papers such as capacitor paper and glassine, and cellophane can be listed. Among them, films of polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyethylene naphthalate are preferred from the viewpoints of mechanical strength, dimensional stability, heat treatment resistance, price, etc. The thickness of the substrate layer 61 can be arbitrarily set according to the specifications of the thermal transfer printer, for example. For example, the thickness of the substrate layer 61 is 1 μm or more, preferably 10 μm or more. For example, the thickness of the substrate layer 61 is 100 μm or less, preferably 50 μm or less. For example, the thickness of the substrate layer 61 is 1 μm or more and 100 μm or less, preferably 10 μm or more and 50 μm or less.

[0127] (5) First adhesive layer 62

[0128] The first adhesive layer 62 is not particularly limited as long as it is an adhesive layer used for bonding the films to each other, and examples thereof include acrylic adhesives, rubber adhesives, and the like. The thickness of the first adhesive layer 62 is, for example, 1 μm or more, preferably 10 μm or more. For example, the thickness of the first adhesive layer 62 is 100 μm or less, preferably 50 μm or less. For example, the thickness of the first adhesive layer 62 is 1 μm or more and 100 μm or less, preferably 10 μm or more and 50 μm or less.

[0129] (6) Second adhesive layer 63

[0130] As the second adhesive layer 63, there is no particular limitation as long as it is an adhesive layer used for bonding the films to each other, and for example, an adhesive material used in the first adhesive layer 62 can be used. The thickness of the second adhesive layer 63 is, for example, 2 μm or more, preferably 10 μm or more. For example, the thickness of the second adhesive layer 63 is 100 μm or less, preferably 50 μm or less. For example, the thickness of the second adhesive layer 63 is 2 μm or more and 100 μm or less, preferably 10 μm or more and 50 μm or less.

[0131] (7) Peeling layer 64

[0132] When the transferred tape 55A is attached to an object, the release layer 64 is peeled off from the laminating tape 76 to expose the second adhesive layer 63. The transferred tape 55A can be attached to the object via the exposed second adhesive layer 63. As the release layer 64, for example, release paper coated with a release agent such as silicone can be cited.

[0133] It should be noted that if Figure 5C As shown, the bonding tape 76 may not include the base material layer 61 .

[0134] According to the transfer-completed belt 55A having the above-mentioned layer structure, Figure 7 As shown, the second ink layer 37 is covered by the transparent printing tape 2 (cover film). As a result, the light 77 incident on the second ink layer 37 via the printing tape 2 can be refracted by the printing tape 2. As a result, when the second ink layer 37 (the surface side ink layer) is observed via the printing tape 2 from an oblique direction or a horizontal direction, the color of the end of the first ink layer 36 hidden in the second ink layer 37 can be suppressed from being observed.

[0135] <Transfer completed belt 55B>

[0136] Reference Figure 5B The transfer-finished tape 55B includes: a printing tape 2 to which a portion of the ink ribbon 3 is transferred, and a laminating tape 76 laminating to the printing tape 2. The laminating tape 76 may also be referred to as a laminating film. Figure 5B In the figure, a cross-section of a portion of the stacked body on which the first ink layer 36 and the second ink layer 37 are transferred is shown as the first transfer layer 82 in the transferred belt 55B, and a cross-section of a portion on which the second ink layer 37 is selectively transferred is omitted as the second transfer layer in the transferred belt 55B.

[0137] In the transferred tape 55B of the present embodiment, the laminating tape 76 has a transparent cover film 83 as an example of a transparent film, and the cover film 83 is attached to the printing tape 2 via the first adhesive layer 84 to physically protect the first transfer layer 82 from external influences. Therefore, in the first transfer layer 82, the first ink layer 36 on the side close to the cover film 83 is the surface side ink layer (observation side ink layer). As shown by the hollow arrow 60, people can recognize the colors of the first ink layer 36 and the second ink layer 37 by the light that passes through the cover film 83 and is reflected by the first ink layer 36 or the second ink layer 37.

[0138] Next, the layer structure of the transferred belt 55B will be described in more detail.

[0139] As described above, the transferred tape 55B is formed by laminating the printing tape 2 and the laminating tape 76 .

[0140] The printing tape 2 is formed of a printed material 81 and includes a base material layer 80 , a first transfer layer 82 , a second adhesive layer 85 , and a release layer 86 .

[0141] (1) Base material layer 80

[0142] As the substrate layer 80, for example, films of resins such as polysulfone, polystyrene, polyamide, polyimide, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polyester, triacetate, thin papers such as capacitor paper and glassine, and cellophane can be listed. Among them, films of polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyethylene naphthalate are preferred from the viewpoints of mechanical strength, dimensional stability, heat treatment resistance, price, etc. The thickness of the substrate layer 80 can be arbitrarily set according to the specifications of the thermal transfer printer, etc. For example, the thickness of the substrate layer 80 is 1 μm or more, preferably 10 μm or more. For example, the thickness of the substrate layer 80 is 100 μm or less, preferably 50 μm or less. For example, the thickness of the substrate layer 80 is 1 μm or more and 100 μm or less, preferably 10 μm or more and 50 μm or less.

[0143] (2) First transfer layer 82

[0144] The first transfer layer 82 includes a first ink layer 36 and a second ink layer 37 stacked in order from the transparent cover film 83. The materials of the first ink layer 36 and the second ink layer 37 are the same as those of the transferred tape 55A.

[0145] It should be noted that, in the transferred tape 55B, the first ink layer 36 is disposed closer to the transparent cover film 83 than the second ink layer 37. Therefore, unlike the transferred tape 55A in which the black color of the first ink layer 36 is recognized by allowing light to pass through the second ink layer 37, the black color of the first ink layer 36 can be recognized without allowing light to pass through the second ink layer 37. Therefore, as described above, from the viewpoint of ensuring transparency, dye may not be used as the colorant of the second ink layer 37. That is, in the transferred tape 55B, the second ink layer 37 may be colored only with pigment.

[0146] It should be noted that, although not described, a separation layer, an intermediate layer, or the like that assists in separation of the first ink layer 36 and the second ink layer 37 may be formed between the first ink layer 36 and the second ink layer 37. The separation layer and the intermediate layer may be formed of, for example, a thermoplastic elastomer.

[0147] On the other hand, in the transferred belt 55B, the first ink layer 36 is different from the transferred belt 55A in that it is a surface-side ink layer (observation-side ink layer). The surface-side ink layer of the transferred belt 55A is the second ink layer 37. Therefore, in the transferred belt 55B, the thickness of the first ink layer 36 is preferably the same as the thickness of the second ink layer 37 of the transferred belt 55A. That is, the thickness of the first ink layer 36 of the transferred belt 55B is, for example, 0.05 μm or more, preferably 1.0 μm or more. The thickness of the second ink layer 37 is, for example, 7.0 μm or less, preferably 5.0 μm or less. The thickness of the second ink layer 37 can be, for example, 0.05 μm or more and 7.0 μm or less, preferably 1.0 μm or more and 5.0 μm or less.

[0148] (3) Second adhesive layer 85

[0149] As the second adhesive layer 85, there is no particular limitation as long as it is an adhesive layer used for bonding the films to each other, and examples thereof include acrylic adhesives, rubber adhesives, etc. The thickness of the first adhesive layer 85 is, for example, 2 μm or more, preferably 10 μm or more. For example, the thickness of the second adhesive layer 85 is 100 μm or less, preferably 50 μm or less. For example, the thickness of the first adhesive layer 85 is 2 μm or more and 100 μm or less, preferably 10 μm or more and 50 μm or less.

[0150] (4) Peeling layer 86

[0151] When the transferred tape 55B is attached to an object, the release layer 86 is peeled off from the printed material 81 to expose the second adhesive layer 85. The transferred tape 55B can be attached to the object via the exposed second adhesive layer 85. As the release layer 86, for example, release paper coated with a release agent such as silicone can be cited.

[0152] The adhesive tape 76 includes a cover film 83 and a first adhesive layer 84 .

[0153] (5) Covering film 83

[0154] As the covering film 83, the same material as the printing tape 2 of the transfer completed belt 55A can be used. Therefore, the covering film 83 can be formed of a material having the same refractive index as the printing tape 2 of the transfer completed belt 55A, and the thickness can also be the same. In addition, the covering film 83 can be a non-stretched film that is not subjected to stretching processing during the manufacturing process, or a stretched film that is subjected to stretching processing such as uniaxial stretching and biaxial stretching. In addition, the surface of the covering film 83 can also be subjected to surface finishing such as gloss processing and matte processing. In addition, a release layer using silicone can also be formed separately to protect the surface of the covering film 83 before use. These layers can be part of the covering film 83 in concept.

[0155] (6) First adhesive layer 84

[0156] As the first adhesive layer 84, there is no particular limitation as long as it is an adhesive layer used for bonding the films to each other, and examples thereof include acrylic adhesives, rubber adhesives, and the like. The thickness of the first adhesive layer 84 is, for example, 1 μm or more, preferably 10 μm or more. For example, the thickness of the first adhesive layer 84 is 100 μm or less, preferably 50 μm or less. For example, the thickness of the first adhesive layer 84 is 1 μm or more and 100 μm or less, preferably 10 μm or more and 50 μm or less.

[0157] In addition, the total thickness of the first adhesive layer 84 and the cover film 83 is preferably greater than the thickness of the first ink layer 36. In other words, the first adhesive layer 84 and the cover film 83 may be thinner than the first ink layer 36 individually, as long as they are thicker than the first ink layer 36 in total. In addition, the total thickness of the first adhesive layer 84 and the cover film 83 is preferably at least twice the thickness of the surface-side ink layer (first ink layer 36).

[0158] In addition, the first adhesive layer 84 is a layer that is sandwiched between the transfer-finished belt 55B and the first transfer layer 82 and allows light to pass through when observing the printed pattern 44. Therefore, the first adhesive layer 84 is preferably transparent. In addition, the refractive index of the first adhesive layer 84 is, for example, 1.4 or more, preferably 1.5 or more, and more preferably 1.6 or more. The refractive index can be, for example, a refractive index measured using a spectroscopic ellipsometer.

[0159] According to the transfer-completed belt 55B having the above-mentioned layer structure, Figure 8 As shown, the first ink layer 36 is covered by a transparent cover film 83 and a first adhesive layer 84. Thus, the light 87 incident on the first ink layer 36 via the cover film 83 can be refracted by the cover film 83 and the first adhesive layer 84. As a result, when the first ink layer 36 (the surface side ink layer) is observed via the cover film 83 from an oblique direction or a lateral direction, it is possible to suppress the color of the end portion of the second ink layer 37 hidden in the first ink layer 36 from being observed.

[0160] The embodiments of the present disclosure described above are illustrative in all aspects and should not be interpreted restrictively, and are intended to include modifications in all aspects.

[0161] Based on the description of this specification and the accompanying drawings, the following additional features can be extracted.

[0162] [Appendix 1-1]

[0163] A transferred film is formed by sequentially laminating a transparent film, a first ink layer, and a second ink layer having a color different from that of the first ink layer, and a substrate layer, wherein:

[0164] The first ink layer and the second ink layer are transfer layers formed by transferring using an ink ribbon of a laminate including the first ink layer and the second ink layer.

[0165] [Appendix 1-2]

[0166] The transfer layer is formed by thermal fusion transfer in the transferred film according to Supplementary Note 1-1.

[0167] [Appendix 1-3]

[0168] On the basis of the transferred film described in Appendix 1-1 or Appendix 1-2,

[0169] The stack of the first ink layer and the second ink layer includes a front-side ink layer close to the transparent film and a back-side ink layer on the opposite side.

[0170] The transparent film is thicker than the surface-side ink layer.

[0171] [Appendix 1-4]

[0172] The transferred film according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1-1 to 1-3, wherein the transparent film has a refractive index of 1.4 or more as measured by a spectroscopic ellipsometer.

[0173] [Appendix 1-5]

[0174] In the case of the transferred film according to any one of Appendix 1-1 to Appendix 1-4,

[0175] The transfer-finished film comprises:

[0176] a printed matter formed by laminating the transparent film, the second ink layer, and the first ink layer in this order; and

[0177] The laminating layer includes a first adhesive layer laminated on the printed material on the first ink layer side, and the base material layer adhered to the printed material via the first adhesive layer.

[0178] [Appendix 1-6]

[0179] The transferred film according to Appendix 1-5, wherein the laminating layer further includes a second adhesive layer laminated on the base layer on the opposite side of the first adhesive layer, and a release layer laminated on the base layer via the second adhesive layer.

[0180] [Appendix 1-7]

[0181] In the case of the transferred film according to any one of Appendix 1-1 to Appendix 1-4,

[0182] The transfer-finished film comprises:

[0183] a laminating layer including the transparent film and a first adhesive layer laminated on a surface of the transparent film; and

[0184] A printed article includes the first ink layer attached to the transparent film via the first adhesive layer, the second ink layer sequentially laminated on the first ink layer, the base material layer, and the second adhesive layer.

[0185] [Appendix 1-8]

[0186] In the transferred film according to Supplementary Note 1-7, the printed material further includes a release layer laminated on the base material layer via the second adhesive layer.

[0187] [Appendix 1-9]

[0188] The transferred film according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1-1 to 1-8, wherein the transferred film is a transferred tape formed in a tape shape.

[0189] [Appendix 1-10]

[0190] A method for manufacturing a transferred film, wherein:

[0191] The method for manufacturing the transferred film comprises the following steps:

[0192] Transferring an ink ribbon including a laminate of a first ink layer and a second ink layer having a color different from that of the first ink layer to the first surface of a transparent film having the first surface and the second surface in such a manner that the second ink layer is on the first surface side, thereby forming a printed matter having a transfer layer; and

[0193] The laminating layer including the first adhesive layer and the base material layer is laminated to the printed matter by laminating the first adhesive layer to the transfer layer.

[0194] [Appendix 1-11]

[0195] A method for manufacturing a transferred film, wherein:

[0196] The method for manufacturing the transferred film comprises the following steps:

[0197] Transferring an ink ribbon including a laminate of a first ink layer and a second ink layer having a color different from that of the first ink layer to the first surface of a substrate layer having the first surface and the second surface in such a manner that the second ink layer is on the first surface side, thereby forming a printed matter having a transfer layer; and

[0198] The laminating layer including the first adhesive layer and the transparent film is laminated to the printed matter by laminating the first adhesive layer to the transfer layer.

[0199] Example

[0200] Hereinafter, the present invention will be further described based on a plurality of samples, but the structure of the present invention is not limited to these examples.

[0201] [Black coloring layer coating agent (1)]

[0202] The components shown in Table 1 below were dissolved in a mixed solvent of toluene and methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) at a mass ratio of 1 / 4 to prepare a black coloring layer coating (1) having a solid content concentration of 22.5 mass %. The ratio of the active ingredient in the acrylic adhesive was 80 mass parts per 100 mass parts of the epoxy resin.

[0203]

Table 1

[0204]

[0205] The components in the table are as follows.

[0206] Epoxy resin: JER1007 manufactured by Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation [basically solid type, softening point (ring and ball method): 128°C, number average molecular weight Mn: about 2900]

[0207] Acrylic adhesive: AS-665 manufactured by Lion Chemical Co., Ltd. [solid content concentration: 40% by mass]

[0208] Tackifier: terpene phenol resin, YS Polyster T80 manufactured by Yasuhara Chemical Co., Ltd. (softening point: 80 ± 5°C)

[0209] Carbon black: MA100 powder manufactured by Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation〔LFF, DBP absorption: 100 cm 3 / 100g〕

[0210] [Red coloring layer coating agent (1)]

[0211] The components shown in Table 2 below were dissolved in a mixed solvent of toluene and methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) at a mass ratio of 1 / 4 to prepare a red coloring layer coating agent (1) having a solid content concentration of 28% by mass.

[0212]

Table 2

[0213]

[0214] The components in the table are as follows.

[0215] Epoxy resin: JER1004 manufactured by Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation [basically solid type, softening point (ring and ball method): 97°C, number average molecular weight Mn: about 1650]

[0216] Low melting point wax: Carnauba wax No. 2 powder manufactured by Toyochem Co., Ltd. (melting point: 80~86°C)

[0217] Red colorant: Red dye VALIFAST RED1320 manufactured by Oriental Chemical Industry Co., Ltd. (CI Basic Red 1 and onium salt of azo dye)

[0218] [Sample 1~9]

[0219] (1) Manufacturing of ink ribbons (thermal transfer recording media)

[0220] First, a PET film with a thickness of 4.5 μm was prepared as a base layer. Next, a silicone resin having a solid content of 0.1 g / m2 per unit area was formed on the opposite side (back side) of the base layer on which the transfer layer was formed. 2 Next, the previously prepared black coloring layer coating agent (1) is applied to the surface of the base layer and then dried to form a solid content per unit area of ​​2.5 g / m 2 The thickness of the black coloring layer was 2.5 μm. Next, the previously prepared red coloring layer coating agent (1) was applied on the black coloring layer and then dried to form a solid content per unit area of ​​2.5 g / m 2 The red coloring layer was formed to produce an ink ribbon. The thickness of the red coloring layer was 2.5 μm. The compositions of the layers of the ink ribbons obtained from Samples 1 to 9 are shown in Tables 4 to 6 below. It should be noted that in Sample 2, the solid content per unit area was 7 g / m 2 A red coloring layer having a thickness of 7 μm was formed.

[0221] (2) Production of transferred film

[0222] <Sample 1>

[0223] The ink ribbon obtained above was wound into a roll and installed in a thermal transfer printer (a prototype printer manufactured by Brother Industries, Ltd.). The main specifications of the thermal transfer printer are as follows.

[0224] <Resolution> 300dpi line thermal head

[0225] <Resistance of heating element>1830Ω

[0226] <Transfer load> 30N / 2inch

[0227] <Transport speed> 20mm / sec

[0228] <Peeling distance> 110mm

[0229] Next, in an environment with an outside temperature of 25°C, the energy value pre-set in the thermal transfer printer and applied to the thermal head was set to 100 (low temperature, black). Then, a barcode was recorded on the surface of a PET film [Lumirror (registered trademark) #6-S10 manufactured by Toray Industries, Ltd., thickness 6μm, refractive index 1.66] as a transparent substrate film at a printing speed of 5 inches / sec. After recording, a laminating film having an adhesive layer [polyester film (white·smooth), FR1415-50PET manufactured by LINTEC Co., Ltd.] was laminated to the substrate film in a manner covering the barcode. Thus, a transferred film was obtained in which a laminated body having a red coloring layer and a black coloring layer as a transfer layer was formed in a manner in which the red coloring layer became the substrate film side. In the transferred film, the substrate film functions as a covering film covering the surface side of the transfer layer. The refractive index of the PET film was measured using a rotating compensator type high-speed spectroscopic ellipsometer M-2000 (registered trademark) manufactured by JA Woollam Japan Co., Ltd. The incident angle during the measurement was set to 50° to 70°.

[0230] <Sample 2>

[0231] A transferred film was produced in the same manner as in Sample 1 except that an ink ribbon having a red colored layer with a thickness of 7 μm was used.

[0232] <Sample 3>

[0233] A transferred film was prepared in the same manner as Sample 1 except that a 25 μm-thick PE film [LIX (registered trademark) film L4102 manufactured by Toyobo Co., Ltd., refractive index 1.53] was used as the transparent base film (cover film).

[0234] <Sample 4>

[0235] A transferred film was prepared in the same manner as Sample 1 except that a 25 μm-thick PC film [PURE-ACE (registered trademark) manufactured by Teijin Limited, Grade D, refractive index 1.58] was used as the transparent base film (cover film).

[0236] <Sample 5>

[0237] A transferred film was prepared in the same manner as Sample 1 except that a 14 μm-thick biaxially stretched polystyrene film [OPS (registered trademark) film manufactured by Asahi Kasei Corporation, refractive index 1.47] was used as the transparent base film (cover film).

[0238] <Sample 6>

[0239] A transferred film was prepared in the same manner as in Sample 1 except that a 20 μm-thick PTFE film [NITOFLON (registered trademark) No. 920UL manufactured by Nitto Denko Corporation, refractive index 1.35] was used as the transparent base film (cover film).

[0240] <Sample 7>

[0241] The ink ribbon obtained above was wound into a roll and installed in a thermal transfer printer with the same specifications as above. Next, under an environment with an external temperature of 25°C, the energy value pre-set in the thermal transfer printer and applied to the thermal head was set to 100 (low temperature, black). Next, a barcode was recorded on the surface of a variable information printing label material [polyester film (white and smooth), FR1415-50 manufactured by LINTEC Co., Ltd.] at a printing speed of 5 inches / sec. After recording, a laminating film consisting of a transparent PET film [Lumirror (registered trademark) #2-F51 manufactured by Toray Industries, Ltd., thickness 2μm, refractive index 1.57] having an adhesive layer with a thickness of 2μm [Qick Master (registered trademark) SPS-1090NT manufactured by DIC Co., Ltd., refractive index 1.50] was laminated to the label material in a manner covering the barcode. Thus, a transferred film is obtained in which a laminated body of a red colored layer and a black colored layer is formed as a transfer layer in a manner that the black colored layer becomes the substrate film side. In the transferred film, the laminating film functions as a covering film covering the surface side of the transfer layer. It should be noted that the refractive index of the PET film is measured using a rotating compensator type high-speed spectroscopic ellipsometer M-2000 (registered trademark) manufactured by JA Woollam Japan. The incident angle during the measurement is set to 50° to 70°.

[0242] <Sample 8>

[0243] A transferred film was prepared in the same manner as Sample 7 except that a 4.5 μm thick adhesive layer [Qick Master (registered trademark) SPS-1090NT manufactured by DIC Corporation, refractive index 1.50] was used as the adhesive layer of the laminating film (cover film).

[0244] <Sample 9>

[0245] A transferred film was produced in the same manner as in Sample 7 except that the laminating film was not laminated on the label material.

[0246] (2) Evaluation

[0247] (2-1) Oblique observation

[0248] like Fig. 9As shown, the observation point was changed from an angle θ of 10° to 90° relative to the surface of the transferred film obtained from Samples 1 to 9, thereby confirming the change in the color of the printed matter that can be visually confirmed. The evaluation criteria for oblique observation are as follows. The results are shown in the following Tables 3 and 4.

[0249] ○: Even when the angle θ is 10°, printing appears to be in the color of the ink layer on the front side.

[0250] Δ: The angle θ is less than 45°, and the color of the edge of the ink layer covered by the surface-side ink layer is visible.

[0251] ×: The angle θ is less than 70°, and the color of the edge of the ink layer covered by the surface-side ink layer is visible.

[0252]

Table 3

[0253]

[0254]

Table 4

[0255]

[0256] According to the comparison between Samples 1 to 8 and Sample 9, if a transparent covering film covering the surface ink layer is provided, at least when the angle θ is 45° or more, the end color of the ink layer covered by the surface ink layer is not confirmed. In addition, according to the comparison between Samples 1 and 2, even in the case where a covering film is provided, a higher evaluation can be obtained when the thickness of the covering film is greater than the thickness of the surface ink layer. On the other hand, according to the result of Sample 8, even if the thickness of the covering film is less than the thickness of the surface ink layer, as long as the total thickness of the covering film and the adhesive layer is more than twice the thickness of the surface ink layer, the end color suppression effect can be improved.

[0257] In addition, the results of samples 1 and 8 and samples 3 to 6 show that if the cover film is a PET film, the total thickness of the cover film and the adhesive layer can be less than 10 μm while fully achieving the effect of suppressing the end color. Therefore, in samples 1 and 8, the transferred film can be well attached even to a complex curved surface.

[0258] Description of Reference Numerals

[0259] 2 printing tape; 3 ink ribbon; 35 substrate layer; 36 first ink layer; 37 second ink layer; 42 first part; 43 second part; 44 printed pattern; 45 red pattern; 46 black pattern; 48 substrate layer; 55 transfer tape; 55A transfer tape; 55B transfer tape; 56 printed matter; 57 first transfer layer; 61 substrate layer; 62 first adhesive layer; 63 second adhesive layer; 64 peeling layer; 76 laminating tape; 80 substrate layer; 81 printed matter; 82 first transfer layer; 83 covering film; 84 first adhesive layer; 85 second adhesive layer; 86 peeling layer.

Claims

1. A transferred film, which is formed by sequentially laminating a transparent film, a first ink layer, and a second ink layer having a color different from that of the first ink layer, and a substrate layer, wherein: The first ink layer and the second ink layer are transfer layers formed by transferring using an ink ribbon of a laminate including the first ink layer and the second ink layer.

2. The transferred film according to claim 1, wherein The transfer layer is formed by thermal melt transfer.

3. The transferred film according to claim 1, wherein The stack of the first ink layer and the second ink layer includes a front-side ink layer close to the transparent film and a back-side ink layer on the opposite side. The transparent film is thicker than the surface-side ink layer.

4. The transferred film according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The refractive index of the transparent film measured by a spectroscopic ellipsometer is 1.4 or more.

5. The transferred film according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The transfer-printed film comprises: a printed matter formed by laminating the transparent film, the second ink layer, and the first ink layer in this order; and The laminating layer includes a first adhesive layer laminated on the printed material on the first ink layer side, and the base material layer adhered to the printed material via the first adhesive layer.

6. The transferred film according to claim 5, wherein: The lamination layer further includes a second adhesive layer laminated on the base layer on the opposite side of the first adhesive layer, and a release layer laminated on the base layer via the second adhesive layer.

7. The transferred film according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The transfer-printed film comprises: a laminating layer including the transparent film and a first adhesive layer laminated on a surface of the transparent film; and A printed article includes the first ink layer attached to the transparent film via the first adhesive layer, the second ink layer sequentially laminated on the first ink layer, the base material layer, and the second adhesive layer.

8. The transferred film according to claim 7, wherein The printed article further includes a release layer laminated on the base material layer via the second adhesive layer.

9. The transferred film according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The transferred film is a transferred tape formed in a tape shape.

10. A method for producing a transferred film, wherein: The method for manufacturing the transferred film comprises the following steps: Transferring an ink ribbon including a laminate of a first ink layer and a second ink layer having a color different from that of the first ink layer to the first surface of a transparent film having the first surface and the second surface so that the second ink layer is on the first surface side, thereby forming a printed article having a transfer layer; as well as The laminating layer including the first adhesive layer and the base material layer is laminated to the printed matter by laminating the first adhesive layer to the transfer layer.

11. A method for producing a transferred film, wherein: The method for manufacturing the transferred film comprises the following steps: Transferring an ink ribbon including a laminate of a first ink layer and a second ink layer having a color different from that of the first ink layer to the first surface of a substrate layer having the first surface and the second surface so that the second ink layer is on the first surface side, thereby forming a printed article having a transfer layer; as well as The laminating layer including the first adhesive layer and the transparent film is laminated to the printed matter by laminating the first adhesive layer to the transfer layer.

Images