Heat-activated print reveal with thermochromic layer technology

Abstract

This invention presents a novel use of thermochromic pigment combined with a polyurethane coating to cover and reveal prints on fabrics through heat activation. Unlike conventional applications of thermochromic materials, which primarily focus on simple color changes, this technology is designed to uncover an underlying print on fabric specifically, when the coating becomes transparent upon exposure to heat, an approach not typically combined on jersey or other fabrics. The innovation lies in the multi-layer application process, including a custom formulation of pigment density and coating layers, as well as the use of an adhesive that ensures both durability and visibility of the print once exposed. Moreover, this method is particularly distinctive as it uses a transfer paper technique to achieve a smooth, matte and silicone-like finish. While demonstrated on a specific band design, this technology can be applied to a wide range of products, including sweaters, T-shirts, and other accessories.

Description

Technical Field to Which the Invention Relates:

[0001] This invention pertains to the application of thermochromic pigment and polyurethane coatings on textiles and other materials, specifically in the context of revealing hidden prints on fabrics through heat activation. It focuses on the method of applying multiple coating layers to ensure visibility of prints after thermal exposure, expanding its use beyond simple color-changing effects.Indication and Background:

[0002] Thermochromic materials are commonly used to create visual effects by changing color when exposed to temperature variations. However, conventional applications of thermochromic technologies primarily focus on simple color transitions, from one colour to another or to transparent, which are limited in functionality and design potential. This invention introduces a novel approach by combining thermochromic pigment with polyurethane coatings to reveal hidden prints on fabrics, offering functional benefits in communication, sensory play, fashion accents, and design versatility across a range of products such as garments and accessories.Improvement Over Existing Technologies:

[0003] One of the main limitations of current thermochromic applications is their reliance on basic color change effects only. This invention overcomes these limitations by employing a multi-layer application process, using a custom formulation of pigment density and polyurethane coatings. The innovation ensures that the underlying print is fully covered and becomes fully visible when the coating turns transparent upon exposure to heat of 29 degree. Additionally, a coordinated adhesive layer guarantees coating durability and prevents it from ripping off from very stretchy base fabric, jersey, which ensures precision in revealing the print, even after repeated use.3. Technical Problem to Be Solved:

[0004] Existing thermochromic applications primarily focus on simple aesthetic changes in color but do not allow for the functional revelation of prints on fabrics. This invention solves the problem by using a multi-layered coating process that ensures both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality, especially for products requiring discrete print visibility through heat activation.4. Disclosures of Invention:

[0005] The invention focuses on a thermochromic coating process that reveals a hidden print when exposed to heat, using: Material Composition: A custom combination of formulation which consists of: Edolan CM 1000g Thermochromic pigment powder Black 55g Desmodur Ultra DN 18g Edolan XTP (1:1) 4g Application on Various Materials: While demonstrated on jersey fabric, this method can be applied to other materials such as cotton. Moreover, the transfer paper technique used to create a matte finish adds a unique visual element. Functionality: This technology allows for the discrete revelation of prints on fabrics through heat, applicable in a variety of products such as T-shirts, sweaters, and accessories. 5. Brief Description of Drawings:

[0006] 1. Illustrations showing the product before and after heat exposure, highlighting the change from full coverage to print visibility.6. Description of Carrying Out at Least One Way of the Invention:

[0007] The process of applying the thermochromic coating in roll-to-roll method, using matex device, involves the following steps: 1. The formulation is prepared with the use of below ingredients: Edolan CM 1000g Thermochromic pigment powder Black 55g Desmodur Ultra DN 18g Edolan XTP (1:1) 4g 2. The formulation is mixed rapidly for several minutes so the pigment dissolved totally. 3. A first layer of the formulation of 200µm is applied to matte green transfer paper. 4. Drying takes place at a temperature of 155 degrees at a speed of 1 meter per minute, 5. On top of this, a second layer of 300µm of the same formulation is coated and the knitted fabric is immediately rolled in while still wet. 6. Drying takes place at a temperature of 145 degrees at a speed of 1 meter per minute. Market Applications: potential markets for this technology

[0008] Fashion Well-being Promotional products Accessories Communication tools

Claims

1. (Independent): A method for covering and revealing a print using thermochromic pigment and a polyurethane coating, wherein the coating becomes transparent upon heat activation, exposing the underlying print.

2. (Dependent): The method according to claim 1, wherein the thermochromic pigment changes color or becomes transparent within a specific temperature range.

3. (Dependent): The method according to claim 1, wherein the transfer paper technique provides a smooth, matte finish .

4. (Independent): A multi-layered thermochromic pigment and polyurethane coating system designed to fully cover a print and reveal it upon heat exposure.

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