Image formation method for transfer, non-transfer region formation apparatus, and printing system

Abstract

To perform transfer of an image from a transfer medium to a to-be-transferred medium more appropriately.SOLUTION: Provided is an image transfer method for transferring an image printed on a transfer medium 50 to a to-be-transferred medium 60, including: a non-transfer area forming step of forming a non-transfer area 206 which is an area not to be transferred to the to-be-transferred medium 60 relative to a transfer target area which is an area corresponding to a portion in which a pressure is applied to the transfer medium 50 during transfer when transfer is executed; and a transfer step of transferring at least part of the image printed on the transfer medium 50 to the to-be-transferred medium 60, in which the pressure is applied to the transfer medium 50 such that the transfer medium overlaps the to-be-transferred medium 60. The transfer medium 50 has a base layer which is a layer to be a base material of the transfer medium 50 and a transfer layer which is a laminar portion which is formed in at least part of the base layer and at least part of which is moved to the to-be-transferred medium 60 during transfer.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image transfer method, a non-transfer area forming device, a printing system, and a transfer medium management method. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, iron transfer (iron printing, rubber transfer) has been widely used as a transfer printing method (see, for example, Patent Document 1). When transferring using the iron transfer method, for example, an image is printed on a transfer medium having a rubber sheet that serves as an adhesive layer, and the rubber sheet is attached to the transfer medium, thereby transferring the image from the transfer medium to the transfer medium. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Publication No. 3048934 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] When transferring an image using iron transfer, the rubber sheet may adhere to the receiving medium, affecting the texture of the receiving medium. For example, when using a cloth receiving medium, this may result in the loss of the fabric characteristics of the receiving medium (e.g., the luster of the fabric). In this case, the rubber sheet may adhere to the receiving medium, which may reduce the breathability of the receiving medium, for example.

[0005] To address this issue, it is possible to control the range of the transfer area to be transferred to the transfer medium by, for example, cutting and removing the marginal portions of the transfer medium in advance. This configuration, for example, prevents excess portions of the rubber sheet from adhering to the transfer medium, while allowing the necessary portion (required area) of the image to be properly transferred. Furthermore, in this case, if the image contains only a simple design, for example, the marginal portions of the transfer medium can be cut relatively easily. However, if the image contains a detailed or complex design, the effort required to cut the transfer medium may increase significantly, and it may become difficult to properly cut the transfer medium. Furthermore, cutting the transfer medium may make it difficult to handle, for example, in subsequent processes. Furthermore, such problems may also occur when transferring images using methods other than iron transfer. Therefore, a more appropriate method for transferring images has been desired. Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an image transfer method, a non-transfer area forming device, a printing system, and a transfer medium management method that can solve the above problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The inventors of the present application have conducted extensive research into methods for more appropriate transfer in transfer printing. They have come up with the idea of ​​forming a non-transfer area in the transfer target area on a medium, etc., that is not transferred to the transfer receiving medium, so that only the necessary portion of the transfer target area can be transferred to the transfer receiving medium. This configuration allows the necessary area of ​​the transfer target area to be appropriately transferred to the transfer receiving medium, for example, without having to cut the transfer medium.

[0007]

[0010] Furthermore, the inventors of the present application have further intensively researched and found the features necessary to achieve such effects, and have arrived at the present invention. In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides an image transfer method for transferring an image printed on a transfer medium to a transfer receiving medium, the method comprising: a non-transfer area forming step; and a transfer step for transferring at least a portion of the image printed on the transfer medium to the transfer receiving medium, the transfer medium having a base layer that is a layer that serves as a substrate for the transfer medium; and a transfer layer that is formed on at least a portion of the base layer and is a layer-like portion that is at least partially transferred to the transfer receiving medium during the transfer. In the non-transfer area forming step, a non-transfer area that is an area that is not transferred to the transfer receiving medium is formed in a transfer target area that is an area that corresponds to a portion where pressure is applied to the transfer medium during the transfer.

[0008] With this configuration, for example, a non-transfer area that is not transferred to the transfer medium can be appropriately set in the transfer target area. This also makes it possible to appropriately prevent, for example, the influence of margins on the transfer medium where no image is drawn from occurring on the transfer medium. Therefore, with this configuration, for example, the image can be more appropriately transferred from the transfer medium to the transfer medium. Furthermore, in this case, forming the non-transfer area allows for more diverse control over how the image is transferred from the transfer medium to the transfer medium. This also makes it possible, for example, to express a wider variety of designs. In this configuration, in the non-transfer area formation step, for example, the non-transfer area is formed on the transfer medium by forming a mask that covers a portion of the transfer target area. With this configuration, for example, the non-transfer area can be appropriately formed in the transfer target area. In the non-transfer area formation step, for example, the mask can be formed using a printing device such as an inkjet printer. In this case, for example, mask data is generated based on image data representing the image to be transferred and information about the transfer medium, and the mask is formed on the transfer medium by causing the printing device to print based on this data. As information relating to the transfer medium, for example, information relating to the size of the transfer medium may be used.

[0009] In this configuration, the image transfer method further includes, for example, a printing step of printing an image on a transfer medium. In the printing step, the image is printed on the transfer medium using a printing device such as an inkjet printer. In this case, it is possible to use a mask-forming printing device, which is a printing device used to form a mask on the transfer medium, separate from the image-printing device, which is a printing device that prints the image on the transfer medium. This configuration allows, for example, the mask-forming printing device and the image-printing device to more appropriately use inks, etc., tailored to the purposes of the devices. Furthermore, depending on the configuration of the printing device, it is also possible to use a common printing device as the mask-forming printing device and the image-printing device. Furthermore, for example, ultraviolet-curable ink can be suitably used as the ink used to form the mask. In this case, in the non-transfer region formation step, a mask is formed on the transfer medium by, for example, ejecting ultraviolet-curable ink from an inkjet head onto the transfer medium. In addition, in this case, it is preferable to cure the ultraviolet-curable ink under glossy printing conditions, for example. The glossy printing conditions can be considered, for example, as conditions for flattening ink dots on the transfer medium after the ink has landed on the transfer medium and curing the ink. The glossy printing conditions can also be considered, for example, as glossy printing conditions preset in a printing device. When configured in this manner, the mask surface can be made flat and uniform compared to, for example, when UV-curable ink is cured under matte printing conditions. This also allows the cured ink layer to be used more appropriately as a mask. The ink used to form the mask may be an ink other than UV-curable ink. In this case, it is possible to use, for example, a heat-curable ink.

[0010] In this configuration, it is also possible to further print non-transfer items, i.e., items other than the transfer image, which is the image to be transferred to the transfer medium, on the transfer medium during the printing stage. In this case, for example, a mask covering the non-transfer items is formed on the transfer medium during the non-transfer area formation stage, thereby forming a non-transfer area on the transfer medium that includes the area where the non-transfer items are printed. Furthermore, by forming such a non-transfer area on the transfer medium, for example, the transfer image can be transferred to the transfer medium during the transfer stage without transferring the non-transfer items to the transfer medium. With this configuration, for example, it is possible to selectively transfer only the transfer image to the transfer medium while printing non-transfer items other than the transfer image on the transfer medium. More specifically, in this case, it is also possible to print, for example, a position reference mark, which is a mark indicating the position of the transfer image, on the transfer medium during the printing stage as a non-transfer item. For example, known registration marks can be suitably used as the position reference mark. With this configuration, for example, it is possible to use the position reference mark as a reference for the position of the transfer image on the transfer medium, while appropriately preventing the position reference mark from being transferred to the transfer medium. The position reference marks may be used, for example, when forming a mask using a mask-forming printing device or for alignment during transfer. Forming a mask using a mask-forming printing device can be considered, for example, as an example of forming a non-transfer area during the non-transfer area formation stage. Furthermore, items other than position reference marks may be used as non-transfer items. In this case, for example, non-transfer items indicating management information used for managing the transfer medium may be used. Examples of management information used for managing the transfer medium include information indicating the date and time of printing and identification information (management information) for the transfer medium. Furthermore, as non-transfer items, for example, conditions for subsequent processes may be printed on the transfer medium. In this case, for example, conditions for the transfer process of transferring an image from the transfer medium to the transfer medium may be printed on the transfer medium as non-transfer items. Furthermore, as a configuration of the present invention, for example, a configuration of a non-transfer area forming device or a printing system having the same characteristics as those described above may also be considered. In this case, for example, a mask-forming printing device used to form a mask may be considered as an example of a non-transfer area forming device.In these cases, for example, the same effects as those described above can be obtained.

[0011] Furthermore, the inventors of the present application have found through extensive research that when printing from a transfer medium to a transfer medium, depending on the configuration of the transfer medium, if the transfer is performed a long time after the image is printed on the transfer medium, the transfer may not be performed properly. More specifically, for example, when a transfer medium having a paper base layer is used, the inventors have found that if the transfer is performed a long time after the image is printed on the transfer medium, the transfer often does not be performed properly. Based on this finding, the inventors have conceived the idea of ​​recording the printing timing, which is the timing when the image is printed on the transfer medium, and managing the transfer medium. In this case, the present invention can be considered, for example, as a transfer medium management method for managing a transfer medium on which an image to be transferred to a transfer medium is printed, the method comprising: a print timing recording step for recording the print timing, which is the timing at which the image is printed on the transfer medium; and an elapsed period confirmation step for confirming the elapsed period, which is the period that has elapsed since the print timing, for the transfer medium on which the image is printed, the transfer medium having a transfer layer, which is a layered portion at least partially transferred to the transfer medium during transfer, and a paper base layer, which is a base layer of the transfer medium, and the transfer medium can be managed so that the image is transferred from the transfer medium to the transfer medium before the elapsed period exceeds a predetermined period. With this configuration, for example, transfer can be performed more appropriately even when a transfer medium having a paper base layer is used.

[0012] In this case, the elapsed time confirmation step may check the elapsed time using, for example, a computer. If the elapsed time exceeds a preset time, a warning may be issued to the user. This configuration may allow, for example, more appropriate management of the transfer medium. In this configuration, the print timing recording step may record the print timing by, for example, printing information indicating the print timing together with the image on the transfer medium. This configuration may allow, for example, the print timing to be recorded appropriately and reliably on the transfer medium. In this case, the print timing may be printed on the transfer medium as, for example, a non-transfer item as described above. [Effects of the Invention]

[0013] According to the present invention, for example, it is possible to more appropriately transfer an image from a transfer medium to a transfer receiving medium. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating a printing system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 1A shows an example of the configuration of the printing system 10. Fig. 1B is a flowchart showing an example of a printing operation executed in the printing system 10. [Figure 2] 2A and 2B are diagrams illustrating the transfer operation performed using a mask. FIG. 2A shows an example of the transfer operation when a mask is not used. FIG. 2B is a diagram illustrating the transfer operation performed in this example. FIG. 2C shows another example of the transfer operation performed in the printing system 10. [Figure 3] 3A and 3B are diagrams illustrating in more detail the configuration of the transfer medium 50 and the transfer operation performed in this example. FIG. 3A shows an example of the configuration of the transfer medium 50. FIG. 3B shows an example of how the transfer medium 50 and the transfer recipient medium 60 overlap when the pressure bonding process is performed. FIG. 3C shows an example of the state of the transfer recipient medium 60 after the peeling process has been performed. FIG. 3D shows the transfer medium 50 together with the transfer recipient medium 60 after the image has been printed and the mask 312 has been formed. [Figure 4] 4A and 4B are diagrams illustrating application examples of the use of a mask. Fig. 4A shows an example of an item to be printed by the printing device 102 on the transfer medium 50. Fig. 4B shows an example of the range of the non-transfer area 206 formed when printing a non-transfer item on the transfer medium 50. [Figure 5] 5A to 5C are diagrams illustrating modified examples of the operation of the printing system 10. Figures 5A to 5C show the features of each modified example. [Figure 6] 6A to 6C are diagrams illustrating modified examples of the operation of the printing system 10. Figures 6A to 6C show the features of each modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a printing system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1(a) shows an example of the configuration of the printing system 10. Except as described below, the printing system 10 of this example and its components may have the same or similar features as known printing systems and their components. In this example, the printing system 10 is a system that performs printing using a transfer method in which an image is transferred from a transfer medium (transfer body, transfer medium) to a transfer receiving medium (transfer receiving body, non-transfer medium), and includes a printing unit 12, a transfer unit 14, a peeling unit 16, and a control unit 18.

[0016] The printing unit 12 is configured to perform a printing process of printing an image on a transfer medium. In this example, the printing unit 12 includes multiple printing devices 102 and 104. For example, known printing devices can be suitably used as the printing devices 102 and 104. More specifically, in this example, the multiple printing devices 102 and 104 are inkjet printers that perform printing using an inkjet method. Of these multiple printing devices 102 and 104, the printing device 102 is an image printing device for printing an image on a transfer medium. In this case, the image printed on the transfer medium by the printing device 102 can be considered, for example, as a transfer image, which is an image to be transferred to a transfer medium. If necessary, the printing device 102 may print items other than the transfer image on the transfer medium 50 along with the transfer image. In this example, the printing device 102 includes multiple inkjet heads and performs color printing on the transfer medium by ejecting multiple colors of ink from the multiple inkjet heads. The printing device 102 uses, for example, pigment ink containing a pigment as a coloring material. More specifically, in this example, the printing device 102 uses aqueous ink containing an aqueous pigment. In this case, the ink containing an aqueous pigment is an example of a textile pigment ink. The aqueous ink is an example of an evaporation-drying ink that is fixed to the printing target by evaporating the solvent. The printing device 102 also uses, as multiple color inks, at least yellow (Y color), magenta (M color), cyan (C color), and black (K color). The printing device 102 also uses, as the transfer medium to be printed, a medium having a base layer that serves as the substrate of the transfer medium, a transfer layer that is a layered portion at least partially transferred to the transfer target medium during the transfer process, and a release layer formed between the base layer and the transfer layer. The transfer process can be considered, for example, as a process of transferring an image printed on the transfer medium to the transfer target medium. The characteristics of the transfer medium will be described in more detail below.

[0017] Furthermore, of the multiple printing devices 102 and 104 in the printing unit 12, the printing device 104 is a mask-forming printing device used to form a transfer prevention mask on the transfer medium. The transfer prevention mask can be considered, for example, as a transfer prevention layer (transfer-blocking layer) that blocks direct contact between the transfer medium and the transfer-receiving medium during the transfer process. The mask can also be considered, for example, as a coating that covers a portion of the surface of the transfer medium. In this example, the printing device 104 is an example of a non-transfer area forming device and forms a mask on at least a portion of the area on the transfer medium where the transfer image is not drawn. The printing device 104 also uses ultraviolet-curable ink (UV-curable ink) as the ink used to form the mask. The UV-curable ink can be considered, for example, as ink that cures when exposed to ultraviolet light and then fixes to the print target. In this case, the ink used in the printing device 104 can be considered to be different from the ink used in the printing device 102, for example, in terms of how it fixes to the print target. The printing device 104 has, for example, an inkjet head and an ultraviolet light source, and forms a mask on the transfer medium by ejecting ultraviolet-curable ink from the inkjet head onto the transfer medium and irradiating it with ultraviolet light from the ultraviolet light source. In this example, the cured ultraviolet-curable ink does not soften even during the transfer process, and maintains the state of a cured film. By using such ultraviolet-curable ink, for example, a mask for preventing transfer can be appropriately formed. The characteristics of the mask formed on the transfer medium will be described in more detail later.

[0018] The transfer unit 14 and the peeling unit 16 are configured to perform the transfer process. In this example, the transfer process includes a pressure-bonding process and a peeling process. In this case, the transfer unit 14 performs the pressure-bonding process. Then, the peeling unit 16 performs the peeling process. More specifically, in the pressure-bonding process, the transfer unit 14 applies heat and pressure to the transfer medium and the transfer recipient medium in a superimposed state (overlapping state), thereby adhering at least a portion of the transfer layer of the transfer medium to the transfer recipient medium. In this case, the transfer unit 14 heats the transfer medium and the transfer recipient medium, for example, by setting the temperature to about 190°C (e.g., about 160 to 210°C). For example, a known transfer device can be suitably used as the transfer unit 14. Furthermore, in the peeling process, the peeling unit 16 peels off the base layer from the transfer medium superimposed on the transfer recipient medium. For example, a known peeling device can be suitably used as the peeling unit 16.

[0019] The control unit 18 controls the operation of each unit of the printing system 10. The control unit 18 can be, for example, a computer that executes a program for controlling the operation of each unit of the printing system 10. In this example, the control unit 18 supplies print data indicating the transfer image to be printed to the printing device 102, causing the printing device 102 to print the transfer image on the transfer medium. The control unit 18 also supplies print data indicating the mask pattern to the printing device 104, causing the printing device 104 to form the mask on the transfer medium. Furthermore, the control unit 18 specifies conditions for the pressure-bonding process and the peeling process to the transfer unit 14 and the peeling unit 16, causing the transfer unit 14 and the peeling unit 16 to perform the pressure-bonding process and the peeling process. According to this example, for example, the transfer image printed on the transfer medium can be properly transferred to the transfer medium. In this case, the printing system 10 performs transfer printing, for example, by the operation of the flowchart shown in FIG. 1(b).

[0020] FIG. 1B is a flowchart illustrating an example of a printing operation performed in the printing system 10. As described above, in this example, the control unit 18 supplies print data representing a transfer image to the printing device 102, causing the printing device 102 to print the transfer image on the transfer medium (S102). In this example, the operation of step S102 is an example of a printing stage operation in which an image is printed on the transfer medium. Following the operation of step S102, the control unit 18 supplies print data representing a mask pattern to the printing device 104, causing the printing device 104 to form a mask on the transfer medium (S104). In this example, the operation of step S104 is an example of a non-transfer area forming stage operation in which a non-transfer area is formed in the transfer target area. The transfer target area can be considered, for example, as an area corresponding to a portion of the transfer medium to which pressure is applied during transfer. The transfer target area can also be considered, for example, as an area where a transfer layer on the transfer medium is transferred to a transfer receiving medium when no non-transfer area is set. The non-transfer area can be considered, for example, as an area in the transfer target area that is not transferred to the transfer medium. In step S104 of this example, the printing device 104 ejects ultraviolet-curable ink from an inkjet head onto the transfer medium and hardens the ultraviolet-curable ink to form a mask that covers a portion of the transfer medium. This configuration allows, for example, the non-transfer area to be appropriately formed on the transfer medium. In this case, the control unit 18 generates print data for the mask based on, for example, image data representing the transfer image and information about the transfer medium, and causes the printing device 104 to print based on this print data. This configuration allows, for example, the printing device 104 to appropriately form a mask that matches the transfer image. Information about the transfer medium, such as the size of the transfer medium, can be used as the information about the transfer medium.

[0021] Furthermore, after causing the printing devices 102 and 104 to print the transfer image on the transfer medium and form the mask, the control unit 18 causes the transfer unit 14 and the peeling unit 16 to perform the transfer process (S106). In this example, the operation of step S108 is an example of the operation of the transfer stage in which the transfer process is performed. The transfer stage can also be considered, for example, as a stage in which at least a portion of the image printed on the transfer medium is transferred to a transfer medium. Furthermore, in this example, the control unit 18 causes the transfer unit 14 to perform the pressing process (S202) as the operation of step S106, and then causes the peeling unit 16 to perform the peeling process (S204). According to this example, for example, in the printing system 10, the operation of transfer printing can be appropriately performed.

[0022] In a modified configuration of the printing system 10, the printing system 10 may further include components other than those described above. In the printing system 10 of this example, the printing unit 12, the transfer unit 14, the peeling unit 16, and the control unit 18 may be, for example, separate devices. In this case, the separate devices may be considered, for example, as devices for each individual function. In a modified configuration of the printing system 10, for example, a single device may be used that corresponds to multiple devices among the printing unit 12, the transfer unit 14, the peeling unit 16, and the control unit 18. More specifically, in this case, for example, a device having the functions of the printing unit 12 and the transfer unit 14 may be used. For example, the transfer unit 14 may be configured to also function as the peeling unit 16. For example, a device having the functions of the printing unit 12, the transfer unit 14, and the peeling unit 16 may be used. For example, the control unit 18 may be performed by one of the other devices. Even with this configuration, the printing system 10 may still be able to properly transfer an image. As described above, in this example, the printing unit 12 includes a printing device 104 for forming a mask, in addition to the printing device 102 for printing an image. This configuration allows, for example, the multiple printing devices 102, 104 to use inks and the like that are tailored to the purpose of the device. A modified configuration of the printing unit 12 could also involve using a single printing device that combines the functions of the multiple printing devices 102, 104. In this case, the printing unit 12 could be configured to use a common printing device as both the mask-forming printing device and the image printing device. Furthermore, in this case, the printing device could include, for example, an inkjet head that ejects ink for printing an image and an inkjet head that ejects ink for forming a mask.

[0023] Next, the characteristics of the mask formed on the transfer medium in this example will be described in more detail. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a transfer operation performed using a mask. FIG. 2(a) shows an example of a transfer operation performed without a mask. The transfer operation shown in FIG. 2(a) can be considered, for example, to be the same as or similar to a conventional transfer operation. In FIG. 2(a), the left side shows an example of a transfer medium 50 on which an image 202 to be transferred is printed. In this case, the portion of the transfer medium 50 on which the image 202 is not printed becomes a margin 204. In addition, the right side of FIG. 2(a) shows an example of a transfer medium 60 on which the image 202 has been transferred. In this figure, a peripheral portion 212, which is the portion surrounding the image 202, corresponds to the margin 204 on the transfer medium 50.

[0024] In this example, when transferring an image, for example, as described above, a transfer medium 50 having a base layer, a transfer layer, and a release layer is used. In this case, in the pressure-bonding step of the transfer process, the transfer medium 50 and the transfer recipient medium 60 are heated and pressurized while overlapping, thereby adhering at least a portion of the transfer layer of the transfer medium 50 to the transfer recipient medium 60. In the release step, the base layer of the transfer medium 50 is peeled off. In this case, in the pressure-bonding step, heat and pressure are typically applied evenly across the entire overlapping area of ​​the transfer medium 50 and the transfer recipient medium 60. Therefore, in the pressure-bonding step, it is typically difficult to selectively transfer only the printed portions of the transfer medium 50 where ink is actually attached. As a result, the transfer layer also adheres to the transfer recipient medium 60 in areas corresponding to the margins 204 of the transfer medium 50. In other words, in this case, the area corresponding to the portion of the transfer medium 50 to which heat and pressure are applied during transfer, including the portion corresponding to the margin 204 of the transfer medium 50, can be considered to be the transfer target area. In this case, the adhesion of the transfer layer will have an effect on, for example, the peripheral portion 212 of the image 202 on the transfer medium 60. In this case, for example, the transfer of the transfer layer to the transfer medium 60 may cause changes in texture and color in the peripheral portion 212 of the image 202. Changes in texture may include, for example, changes in gloss. In this case, for example, the original texture and color of the transfer medium 60 may be lost, resulting in a decrease in design quality. Furthermore, when transferring an image 202 printed using pigment ink, as in the printing system 10 of this example, using a transfer medium 50 with a predetermined configuration, for example, enables the use of various types of fabrics (textiles) as the transfer medium 60. In this case, adhesion of the transfer layer to the transfer medium 60 in the peripheral portion 212 of the image 202 may result in, for example, the loss of the fabric characteristics of the transfer medium 60. In this case, for example, the adhesion of the transfer layer to the transfer medium 60 may cause the loss of the glossiness that is unique to fabric. Furthermore, the transfer layer may affect, for example, the texture and breathability that are unique to the fabric used as the transfer medium 60.

[0025] In this regard, for example, if the margin 204 is cut and removed after printing the image 202 on the transfer medium 50 and before transferring, this problem can be appropriately prevented. However, in this case, it becomes necessary to cut the margin 204 to match the design to be printed as the image 202, which significantly increases the amount of work required for preparation for transfer. In particular, when printing an image 202 with a detailed and complex design on the transfer medium 50, the cutting process may become too time-consuming or difficult to perform. Furthermore, in this case, the shape of the transfer medium 50 may change in various ways due to cutting, which may make the transfer medium 50 difficult to handle in the subsequent transfer process.

[0026] In contrast, in this example, as shown in FIG. 2(b), a non-transfer area 206 is formed on the transfer medium 50 to prevent the transfer layer from adhering more than necessary to the transfer recipient medium 60. FIG. 2(b) is a diagram illustrating the transfer operation performed in this example, showing an example of the transfer operation performed in the printing system 10 (see FIG. 1) described above. In FIG. 2(b), the left side shows an example of the transfer medium 50 on which an image 202 that will become the transfer image is printed. The right side shows an example of the transfer recipient medium 60 onto which the image 202 is transferred. As described above, in this example, the control unit 18 (see FIG. 1) of the printing system 10 causes the printing device 104 (see FIG. 1) in the printing unit 12 to form a mask on the transfer medium. In this case, the area where the mask is formed becomes the non-transfer area 206 that is not transferred to the transfer recipient medium 60. In this example, the non-transfer area 206 is formed in at least a portion of the margin 204. In this case, the portion of the transfer medium 60 after the image 202 has been transferred, which corresponds to the non-transfer region 206 of the transfer medium 50, becomes a non-transfer portion 214. The non-transfer portion 214 can be considered to be, for example, a portion to which the transfer layer of the transfer medium 50 does not adhere during the transfer process.

[0027] With this configuration, for example, a non-transfer area 206 that is not transferred to the transfer receiver medium 60 can be appropriately formed on the transfer medium 50. In this case, forming the non-transfer area 206 on the transfer medium 50 can be considered, for example, as an example of forming the non-transfer area 206 in the transfer target area. With this configuration, for example, in the portion of the transfer medium 50 corresponding to the non-transfer area 206, the influence of a margin 204 where the image 202 is not drawn on the transfer medium 50 can be appropriately prevented from occurring on the transfer receiver medium 60. More specifically, in this case, compared to, for example, not forming the non-transfer area 206 on the transfer medium 50, by not transferring unnecessary portions, it is possible to appropriately prevent the transfer receiver medium 60 from losing gloss, reducing texture, reducing breathability, and the like. Therefore, according to this example, for example, the image 202 can be more appropriately transferred from the transfer medium 50 to the transfer receiver medium 60. Furthermore, in this example, by forming the non-transfer area 206 on the transfer medium 50, it is possible to perform more diverse control over, for example, how the image 202 is transferred from the transfer medium 50 to the transfer recipient medium 60. This also makes it possible, for example, to express a wider variety of designs. In this case, for example, by preventing gloss changes in the non-transfer area 214, it is possible to express new designs that make use of the non-transfer area 214 on the transfer recipient medium 60, as shown in FIG. 2(c).

[0028] FIG. 2(c) shows another example of the transfer operation performed in the printing system 10. In FIG. 2(c), the left side shows an example of a transfer medium 50 on which an image 202, which will become the transfer image, is printed. The right side shows an example of a transfer medium 60 onto which the image 202 is transferred. In the example shown in FIG. 2(c), a design is expressed by taking advantage of the difference in gloss, etc., between the peripheral portion 212 that does not become the non-transfer portion 214 and the portion that becomes the non-transfer portion 214 on the transfer medium 60. More specifically, in this case, as shown in the figure, a non-transfer region 206 is formed on the transfer medium 50 as if it constitutes part of the image 202. Then, on the transfer medium 60 after transfer, as shown in the figure, most of the area where the image 202 is drawn becomes the non-transfer portion 214. With this configuration, for example, a variety of designs can be appropriately expressed by taking advantage of the portion that becomes the non-transfer portion 214 on the transfer medium 60.

[0029] Next, the characteristics of the transfer medium 50 used in this example will be described in more detail. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the transfer medium 50 and the transfer operation performed in this example in more detail. FIG. 3(a) shows an example of the configuration of the transfer medium 50. In this example, the transfer medium 50 is a sheet-like transfer body (transfer paper, transfer sheet) and, as described above, has a base layer 52, a transfer layer 54, and a release layer 56. By using a transfer medium 50 with this configuration, an image can be properly transferred from the transfer medium 50 to a transfer recipient medium without adhering rubber or the like to the transfer recipient medium, as in the case of transfer using a rubber transfer method. Furthermore, in this case, as described above, forming a mask on the transfer medium 50 can appropriately prevent, for example, the transfer layer 54 of the transfer medium 50 from adhering more than necessary to the transfer recipient medium 60. In this example, the base layer 52 is a paper layer. The base layer 52 being a paper layer can be considered to be, for example, that at least a portion of the base layer 52 in the thickness direction is made of paper. In this case, for example, it is possible to use a base layer 52 in which at least the portion in contact with the transfer layer 54 is formed of paper. Regarding the base layer 52 being a paper layer, it is also possible to consider, for example, that the base layer 52 is essentially a paper layer. The paper layer can also be considered, for example, as a layer of cellulose (wood fiber). It is also possible to use, for example, a resin film layer as the base layer 52. However, in this case, the interface of the base layer 52 on the transfer layer 54 side is made smoother, which, for example, tends to increase the smoothness of the surface of the transferred image. In contrast, when a paper base layer 52 is used as in this example, it is possible to appropriately prevent the surface of the transferred image from becoming excessively smooth, compared to, for example, when a resin film base layer is used. This also makes it possible, for example, to make the state of the transferred image appear more natural.

[0030] Furthermore, in the transfer medium 50, the transfer layer 54 is a layer that separates from the base layer 52 and adheres to the transfer medium during transfer, and is formed on at least a portion of the base layer 52. In this example, the transfer layer 54 is formed, for example, by applying the material of the transfer layer 54 onto the base layer 52. The transfer layer 54 may be formed, for example, on only a portion of the base layer 52. In this case, the transfer layer 54 is formed only on a portion of the base layer 52, excluding the ends of the base layer 52, such as both ends in the width direction. The transfer layer 54 can also be considered, for example, as a layer that receives ink ejected from the printing unit 12 (see FIG. 1) and transfers to the transfer medium together with the ink during transfer. The transfer layer 54 can be, for example, a resin layer. As described above, in this example, the printing device 102 in the printing unit 12 prints on the transfer medium 50 using ink containing an aqueous pigment. In this case, the transfer layer 54 can also be considered, for example, as a layer that can print an image using ink containing an aqueous pigment and that can be peeled off from the base layer 52 during transfer. The transfer layer 54 can also be considered, for example, as an ink-receiving layer (receiving layer) that peels off from the base layer 52. As described above, in this example, the transfer medium 50 has a release layer 56 between the base layer 52 and the transfer layer 54. The release layer 56 separates the base layer 52 from the transfer layer 54 during the peeling process. The release layer 56 is preferably a layer whose releasability increases when heated during the pressure-bonding process. In this example, the release layer 56 is made of, for example, a meltable material. More specifically, the release layer 56 can be made of, for example, a silicone-based material or various wax-based materials. The base layer 52, transfer layer 54, and release layer 56 can be made of layers having the same or similar characteristics as the base layer, transfer layer, and release layer of a known transfer medium for pigment transfer. More specifically, in this example, the transfer medium 50 can be a known transfer medium that can print an image using an ink containing a pigment such as an aqueous pigment (pigment ink) and transfer the image to a transfer medium.

[0031] As described above, in this example, the transfer unit 14 (see FIG. 1) performs a pressure bonding process in which heat and pressure are applied to the transfer medium 50 and the transfer receiver medium 50 in a superimposed state. In this case, as shown in FIG. 3(b), for example, the transfer medium 50 and the transfer receiver medium 60 are superimposed in the transfer unit 14 so that the transfer layer 54 of the transfer medium 50 and the transfer receiver medium 60 are in contact with each other. FIG. 3(b) shows an example of how the transfer medium 50 and the transfer receiver medium 60 overlap during the pressure bonding process. For convenience of illustration, FIG. 3(b) omits the mask formed on the transfer medium 50 to show the example of how the transfer medium 50 and the transfer receiver medium 60 overlap. By performing the pressure bonding process in this state, the transfer unit 14 adheres at least a portion of the transfer layer 54 of the transfer medium 50 to the transfer receiver medium 60. After the pressure bonding process is performed in the transfer unit 14, the peeling unit 16 (see FIG. 1) performs a peeling process to peel the base layer 52 from the transfer medium 50. In this case, peeling the base layer 52 from the transfer medium 50 can be considered to mean, for example, peeling the base layer 52 while the transfer medium 50 and the transfer recipient medium 60 are overlapping. In this case, after the peeling step, at least a portion of the transfer layer 54 remains on the transfer recipient medium 60, as shown in Fig. 3(c), for example. Fig. 3(c) shows an example of the state of the transfer recipient medium 60 after the peeling step.

[0032] In this case, the release layer 56 of the transfer medium 50 can be considered to be attached to, for example, either the base layer 52 or the transfer layer 54. After the peeling step, a portion of the release layer 56 may be attached to the base layer 52, with the remaining portion attached to the transfer layer 54. Furthermore, as described above, in practice, the release layer 56 can be considered to be substantially absent after the peeling step. For convenience of illustration, FIG. 3(c) shows an example in which the transfer layer 54 is attached to the entire transfer medium 60. During actual transfer in this example, after the peeling step, a portion of the transfer medium 60 becomes a non-transfer area, as described above, and the transfer layer 54 is considered to be attached to a portion of the transfer medium 60. More specifically, in this example, as shown in FIG. 3(d), a mask 312 is formed on at least a portion of the peripheral area 304 of the transfer medium 50, which is an area other than the transfer image area 302 where the transfer image is printed. FIG. 3(d) is a diagram showing the transfer medium 50 together with the transfer receiving medium 60 after printing the image and forming the mask 312. In this case, the portion of the transfer medium 50 where the mask 312 is formed becomes a non-transfer region, and the portion of the transfer receiving medium 60 that comes into contact with the mask 312 during the pressure bonding process becomes a non-transfer portion. According to this example, for example, the influence of margins of the transfer medium 50 on the transfer receiving medium 60 can be appropriately prevented in the portion of the transfer medium 50 corresponding to the non-transfer region. Also, in this example, the mask 312 may cover at least a portion of the portion of the transfer medium 50 where ink has landed. More specifically, as described above, when printing a transfer image on the transfer medium 50, the printing device 102 (see FIG. 1) in the printing unit 12 may print items other than the transfer image onto the transfer medium 50 along with the transfer image. In this case, the printing device 104 (see FIG. 1) in the printing unit 12 may form a mask that covers the portion where items other than the transfer image are printed. In this case, the printing device 104 forms a non-transfer area 206 by forming a mask, as shown in FIG. 4, for example.

[0033] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an application example of the use of a mask. FIG. 4(a) shows an example of items printed on the transfer medium 50 by the printing device 102 (see FIG. 1) in this example. In the illustrated example, the printing device 102 further prints multiple image registration marks 222 and management information 224 on the transfer medium 50 in addition to the image 202 to be printed as the transfer image. In this case, the registration marks 222 and the management information 224 are examples of non-transfer items, that is, items other than the transfer image. The registration marks 222 are also an example of position reference marks, which indicate the position of the transfer image. For example, known registration marks can be suitably used as the registration marks 222. The registration marks 222 can be used, for example, when forming a mask (when forming a non-transfer area) in the printing device 104 (see FIG. 1) or for alignment during transfer. The management information 224 is information used to manage the transfer medium 50. For example, identification information (management information) of the transfer medium 50 can be used as the management information 224. Furthermore, as the management information 224, for example, information indicating the date and time when the image 202 was printed on the transfer medium 50 (printing timing), information indicating the expiration date of the printed transfer medium 50, etc. may be used. As the expiration date of the printed transfer medium 50, for example, the deadline until which transfer using the transfer medium 50 can be used. Furthermore, the printing device 102 may print information other than the register marks 222 and the management information 224 on the transfer medium 50 as non-transfer items. In this case, it is conceivable to print, for example, conditions for a subsequent process on the transfer medium 50 as non-transfer items. More specifically, in this case, it is conceivable to print, for example, conditions for a subsequent transfer process on the transfer medium 50 as non-transfer items.

[0034] In this case, the printing device 104 forms a mask in an area covering non-transfer items such as the register marks 222 and management information 224, thereby forming a non-transfer area 206 on the transfer medium 50, including the area where the non-transfer items are printed, as shown in FIG. 4B. FIG. 4B shows an example of the area of ​​the non-transfer area 206 formed when printing non-transfer items on the transfer medium 50. In this case, the non-transfer area 206 can be considered to be formed, for example, in an area that includes the area where the non-transfer items are printed, but does not include the image 202 that will be the transferred image. By forming such a non-transfer area 206, for example, in the transfer process, the transfer unit 14 and peeling unit 16 (see FIG. 1) in the printing system 10 transfer the image 202 to the transfer medium 60 without transferring the non-transfer items, such as the register marks 222 and management information 224, which are covered by the mask. Therefore, with this configuration, for example, it is possible to selectively transfer only the image 202 to the transfer medium 60 while printing non-transfer items other than the image 202 on the transfer medium 50. Furthermore, as described above, the register marks 222 can be used, for example, when forming a mask in the printing device 104. With this configuration, for example, even when using different devices as the printing device 102 for image printing and the printing device 104 for mask formation, a mask can be formed more appropriately with high accuracy. Furthermore, when using the register marks 222 for alignment during transfer, checking the position of the register marks 222 when the transfer medium 50 and the transfer medium 60 are oriented in an overlapping manner requires, for example, checking the register marks 222 from the reverse side of the transfer medium 50 on which the image 202 and register marks 222 are printed. Therefore, it may be necessary to draw the register marks 222 in a dark color or in a large size so that they can be seen from the reverse side of the transfer medium 50. In this case, if the register marks 222 are transferred to the transfer medium 60 during transfer, this will have a significant impact on the quality of the transfer medium 60 after transfer. In contrast, according to this example, it is possible to appropriately prevent, for example, the use of the register marks 222 from affecting the quality of the transfer medium 60. Furthermore, as explained above, in the printing system 10 of this example, it is conceivable to use, for example, various types of fabric as the transfer medium 60.In this case, it is conceivable that the preferred conditions for the transfer process may differ depending on the type of fabric used as the transfer medium 60. In contrast, in this example, for example, by using the management information 224, it is possible to more easily and appropriately identify the transfer medium 50. This also makes it possible to more easily and appropriately manage the conditions for the transfer process, for example. Furthermore, in this case, it is possible to appropriately prevent the management information 224 from being transferred to the transfer medium 60. Therefore, according to this example, for example, various fabrics can be more easily and appropriately used as the transfer medium 60.

[0035] Next, supplementary explanations regarding the various components described above and explanations of modified examples will be provided. Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the modified examples described above or below may be referred to as the present example. As described above, in this example, a known transfer medium can be used as the transfer medium 50. In this case, for example, transfer paper compatible with roll-to-roll techniques in industrial applications can be suitably used as the transfer medium 50. For example, transfer paper with a wide width (for example, approximately 1.6 m wide) and long length (for example, approximately 110 m) can be suitably used as such a transfer medium 50.

[0036] As described above, in this example, the transfer medium 50 has a base layer, a transfer layer, and a release layer. These three layers are stacked such that the release layer is sandwiched between the base layer and the transfer layer. In this case, the transfer medium 50 can be considered to be composed of at least three layers including these layers. As described above, the base layer is made of, for example, a paper layer. In this case, the base layer is made of, for example, a paper layer having a weight per square meter of 50 to 120 g (50 to 120 g / m 2) can be suitably used. Also, as explained above, in this example, the peeling unit 16 (see FIG. 1) performs the peeling process before the temperature of the transfer medium 50, etc., heated in the pressing process, drops to room temperature or below. In this case, if the base layer is made of resin, for example, the heat may cause the base layer to soften or stretch, reducing the peelability of the base layer. In contrast, when a paper layer is used as the base layer, the base layer becomes substantially non-stretchable, allowing the base layer to be more appropriately peeled even when the peeling process is performed at a high temperature (e.g., 100°C or higher). Therefore, using a paper layer as the base layer can be considered particularly suitable when the peeling process is performed when the transfer medium 50 is at a high temperature.

[0037] As explained above, the transfer layer may be, for example, a resin layer. In this case, the transfer layer may be, for example, a resin layer having a weight per square meter of 5 to 20 g (5 to 20 g / m 2 ) can be suitably used. Furthermore, as the resin in the transfer layer, a thermoplastic resin that softens when heated during the pressure bonding process can be suitably used. More specifically, as the transfer layer, for example, a layer mainly composed of polyethylene can be used. Furthermore, as the transfer layer, for example, a layer made of a fiber-reactive polymer including a crosslinkable polymer can be suitably used. As the fiber-reactive polymer, for example, a polymer containing an isocyanate group can be suitably used. Furthermore, the transfer layer may also contain, for example, a binder, a rheology modifier, an antifoaming agent, a pigment (white), a crosslinking agent, a wetting agent, etc. As the antifoaming agent, for example, a siloxane-based substance can be suitably used. As the binder, for example, a combination of urethane and acrylic or styrene-acrylic can be suitably used.

[0038] Furthermore, the printing surface on which the ink lands in the transfer layer may be, for example, a surface on which particulate matter solidifies. Such a printing surface may be, for example, an uneven surface with fine irregularities. By configuring the printing surface in this manner, the transfer layer may, for example, more appropriately receive the ink ejected onto the transfer layer. Furthermore, the transfer layer may be configured to suppress the wetting and spreading of ink dots at temperatures higher than room temperature, for example, about 60°C (50-70°C). The suppression of the wetting and spreading of ink dots at temperatures higher than room temperature can be understood as, for example, the fact that the ink dots are less likely to wetting and spreading compared to conditions at room temperature. In this case, for example, by performing printing while heating the transfer medium 50 in the printing unit 12, it is possible to reduce the occurrence of ink bleeding.

[0039] As explained above, the release layer can be preferably made of, for example, a silicone-based material or various wax-based materials. 2 ) can be suitably used. Furthermore, by forming the release layer between the base layer and the transfer layer, it can be considered that, for example, it makes it difficult for the ink in the transfer layer to reach the base layer. More specifically, in this example, the ink ejected onto the transfer layer remains almost entirely within the transfer layer. Therefore, for example, if a large amount of ink is ejected onto the transfer layer, the ink exceeding the allowable amount will pile up on the surface of the transfer layer. Furthermore, in this case, it can be considered that there is almost no penetration of the ink into the base layer. With this configuration, for example, it is possible to appropriately prevent changes in the release properties of the base layer due to ink penetration into the base layer.

[0040] Furthermore, a known transfer medium can be used as the transfer medium 50. More specifically, for example, Texcol (registered trademark), a pigment transfer paper provided by Neenah Coldenhove, can be used as the transfer medium 50. As can be understood from the above description, in the printing system 10 of this example, an image can be transferred to the transfer medium 60, for example, various types of fabric, without pre-treatment or post-treatment using water. In this case, the transfer medium 50 can be considered, for example, as transfer paper that can transfer to a wide variety of fabrics (textiles) in one step without using water. Furthermore, for example, a known transfer device manufactured by Klieverik Heli BV can be used as the transfer unit 14.

[0041] As explained above, in the pressure-bonding step of the transfer process, the transfer layer is softened by heat, and pressure is simultaneously applied to adhere the transfer medium 50 to the transfer recipient medium 60. Then, in the subsequent peeling step, the base layer of the transfer medium 50 is peeled off, leaving the transfer layer containing the ink representing the transfer image on the transfer recipient medium 60. Also, in this example, as explained above, a mask is formed on the transfer medium 50 to designate a portion of the transfer medium 50 as a non-transfer area, and only the image printed on a desired portion of the transfer medium 50 is transferred to the transfer recipient medium 60. In this case, forming a mask on the transfer medium 50 makes it possible, for example, to appropriately select the transfer area, which was difficult with conventional methods, and to arbitrarily and precisely adjust the transfer area. Also, as explained above, in this example, it is also possible to print additional transfer items other than the transfer image on the transfer medium 50 and form a mask to cover the transfer items. In this case, when the base layer is peeled off in the peeling process, the portion of the transfer layer that has not been transferred to the transfer medium 60 is also peeled off along with the base layer. Therefore, after the base layer is peeled off in the peeling process, ink indicating the matter to be transferred remains in the portion of the transfer layer that remains on the base layer side. Furthermore, the operation of peeling off the base layer in the peeling process can also be considered, for example, as the operation of peeling off the transfer medium 50 after transfer. In this case, for example, it can also be considered that ink that has not been transferred remains on the peeled transfer medium 50.

[0042] Furthermore, in this example, by using an inkjet printer as the printing device 102 for the transfer image, it is possible to print, for example, a transfer image of any desired design with high resolution. Furthermore, by using an inkjet printer as the printing device 104 for forming the mask, it is possible to appropriately form, for example, a mask that matches the high-resolution transfer image. Furthermore, in this case, by using inkjet printers as both the printing device 102 and the printing device 104, it is possible to more easily and appropriately generate print data for the printing device 104 indicating the mask pattern based on print data for the printing device 102. More specifically, in this case, for example, by generating print data for mask formation based on print data for the printing device 102, it is possible to easily and appropriately generate print data for the mask that matches the fine patterns in the transfer image. Also, as described above, in this example, the printing device 104 uses ultraviolet-curable ink as the ink for forming the mask. In this case, by using ultraviolet-curable ink, it is possible to appropriately form a mask that does not adhere to the transfer medium 60 due to the heat and pressure in the pressing process, for example. Furthermore, for example, the ink can be appropriately fixed to the transfer medium 50 in a short time. Therefore, for example, when forming a mask using the printing device 104 at a position overlapping an image printed by the printing device 102 for image printing, bleeding of the image due to the influence of the liquid mask ink can be appropriately prevented. A known UV-curable ink can be suitably used as the UV-curable ink for forming the mask. More specifically, for example, LH-100 Ink (registered trademark), a known UV-curable ink manufactured by Mimaki Engineering Co., Ltd., can be suitably used as the UV-curable ink for forming the mask. In this case, for example, a known inkjet printer manufactured by Mimaki Engineering Co., Ltd. can be suitably used as the printing device 104. Furthermore, for example, a colorless, transparent clear ink can be suitably used as the ink for forming the mask.

[0043] Furthermore, when printing with an inkjet printer using UV-curable ink, matte printing conditions, glossy printing conditions, and the like are widely used as printing conditions. In this case, matte printing conditions can be considered, for example, as conditions in which UV light is applied to the printing target immediately after the ink lands, thereby curing the ink before the ink dots flatten. Glossy printing conditions can be considered, for example, as conditions in which the ink lands on the transfer medium, and then the ink dots flatten on the transfer medium, thereby curing the ink. In this case, the matte printing conditions and glossy printing conditions can be, for example, matte or glossy printing conditions preset in the printing device. When forming a mask using the printing device 104, curing the ink for forming the mask under matte printing conditions may result in the matte surface of the mask, resulting in a pattern on the transfer medium 60 after transfer corresponding to the unevenness of the mask surface. Therefore, it is preferable that the printing device 104 cures the ink for forming the mask under glossy printing conditions, for example. This configuration allows the mask surface to be flatter and more uniform than, for example, when UV-curable ink is cured under matte printing conditions. This also allows the cured ink layer to be used more appropriately as a mask. In this case, when forming the mask, the printing device 104, for example, irradiates the ink deposited on the transfer medium 50 with relatively weak UV light for pre-curing (pinning) and relatively strong UV light for full curing to complete the ink curing, thereby curing the ink under glossy printing conditions. In this case, the printing device 104, for example, irradiates the ink with UV light for pre-curing, allows time for the ink dots to flatten, and then irradiates the ink with UV light for full curing. This configuration allows the appropriate formation of a mask using ink cured under glossy printing conditions. Depending on the design required for the transfer medium 60, the ink may be cured under matte printing conditions when forming the mask using the printing device 104. This configuration allows the appropriate expression of a variety of designs, for example, using a mask.In this case, depending on the design to be expressed on the transfer medium 60, it is also possible to, for example, cure ink under glossy printing conditions when forming a portion of the mask and cure ink under matte printing conditions when forming another portion of the mask. As described above, the printing unit 12 may use a single printing device that combines the functions of the multiple printing devices 102 and 104. In this case, the printing device may, for example, eject evaporative drying ink as the ink for printing the image and ultraviolet curable ink as the ink for forming the mask. The printing device may also cure the ink for forming the mask under glossy printing conditions. This configuration allows, for example, a single printing device to appropriately perform both the transfer image drawing and the mask formation.

[0044] In addition, in a modified method of forming the mask, for example, the mask may be formed using ink other than UV-curable ink. In this case, for example, it is possible to use ink that does not adhere (stick) to the transfer medium when heated during the pressure bonding process. More specifically, the heating temperature (transfer temperature) during the pressure bonding process may be set to, for example, a temperature equal to or higher than the softening point of the transfer layer of the transfer medium 50. Therefore, it is preferable to use ink for forming the mask whose softening point is higher than that of the transfer layer. In this case, the softening point can be considered, for example, as the temperature at which a substance softens. The softening point of the transfer layer can be considered, for example, as the softening point of the resin constituting the transfer layer. The softening point of the mask can be considered, for example, as the softening point of the ink when the ink for forming the mask has fixed to the transfer medium 50. Furthermore, in this example, the softening points of the transfer layer and the mask can be considered, for example, as the temperature at which the resin constituting the transfer layer and the ink constituting the mask substantially adhere to the transfer medium 60 due to the pressure during the pressure bonding process. The fact that the resin or ink is substantially adhered to the transfer medium 60 can be considered, for example, to be the result of determining that the resin or ink is adhered to the transfer medium 60 at a quality required for the transfer medium 60 after image transfer. Furthermore, it is preferable to use, for example, an ink whose glass transition temperature is higher than the heating temperature during the pressure bonding process as the ink for forming the mask. The glass transition temperature of the mask can be considered, for example, as the glass transition temperature of the ink when the ink for forming the mask is fixed to the transfer medium 50. More specifically, when forming a mask using ink other than UV-curable ink, it is possible to use, for example, a thermosetting ink that hardens when heated. The thermosetting ink can be, for example, an ink containing a thermosetting resin. In this case, it is possible to use, for example, an epoxy-based resin. It is also possible to use, for example, an ink containing a heat-resistant resin as the ink for forming the mask. For example, various engineering plastics can be used as the heat-resistant resin.

[0045] In addition, in a modified configuration of the printing system 10, the mask may be formed by a method other than using an inkjet printer. In this case, for example, the mask may be formed by silkscreen printing or by hand-drawing with a brush using the same or similar material as the ink used to form the mask described above. Even with this configuration, masks of various shapes can be appropriately formed. As described above, in this example, the area where the mask is formed becomes a non-transfer area that is not transferred to the transfer medium 60. In this case, the mask can also be considered, for example, as a transfer-inhibiting layer that prevents the resin constituting the transfer layer of the transfer medium 50 from transferring to the transfer medium 60. In this case, the method of forming a mask by printing or hand-drawing can also be considered, for example, as a transfer-inhibiting layer directly applied to the transfer medium 50 on which an image has been printed. Furthermore, the mask (transfer-inhibiting layer) may be separately prepared and then fitted to the transfer medium 50, rather than being formed directly on the transfer medium 50. In this case, for example, foil, resin film, paper, cloth, etc. may be cut out using a cutting plotter or the like and attached to the transfer medium 50. The foil may be, for example, a metal foil such as aluminum foil, etc. In this case, a mask can be appropriately formed on the transfer medium 50, for example.

[0046] In addition, in a modified example of the operation of the printing system 10, for example, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, portions other than the transfer image may be prevented from being transferred to the transfer medium by a method other than forming a mask. FIGS. 5 and 6 are diagrams illustrating modified examples of the operation of the printing system 10. FIGS. 5(a)-(c) and 6(a)-(c) illustrate the features of each modified example. Except as otherwise described below, components in FIGS. 5 and 6 designated with the same reference numerals as those in FIGS. 1-4 may have the same or similar features as those in FIGS. 1-4. Also, FIG. 5(a) illustrates an example in which a non-transfer region is formed by performing a transfer suppression process on the transfer medium 50. In this case, a transfer suppression process is performed on an area of ​​the transfer medium 50 where the transfer image is not printed, thereby forming a transfer suppression process region 314. The transfer suppression process can be considered, for example, as a process for suppressing the transfer of ink adhering to the transfer layer to the transfer medium. The transfer suppression process region 314 can be considered, for example, as an area in which transfer to the transfer medium is suppressed. More specifically, in this case, for example, a chemical solution or the like that makes it difficult for ink to adhere to the transfer medium is applied to a peripheral area 304 of a transfer image area 302 where the transfer image is printed on the transfer medium 50, thereby forming a transfer suppression treatment area 314. Also, in this case, the transfer suppression treatment area 314 can be considered to be, for example, a non-transfer area that is not transferred to the transfer medium. Even with this configuration, for example, a non-transfer area can be appropriately formed on the transfer medium 50.

[0047] 5(b) and (c) show an example in which a non-transfer area is formed by removing a portion of the transfer medium 50. In this case, for example, as shown in the figure, a transfer suppression treatment area 314, which serves as a non-transfer area, is formed by removing a portion of the transfer layer of the transfer medium 50 other than the transfer image area 302. Even with this configuration, for example, a non-transfer area can be appropriately formed on the transfer medium 50. In this case, it is possible to form the transfer suppression treatment area 314 by, for example, scraping off a portion of the transfer layer. Alternatively, it is possible to form the transfer suppression treatment area 314 by, for example, performing a cutting process on the transfer layer and peeling off a portion of the transfer layer. It is also possible to remove a portion of the transfer layer using an intermediate medium 70, as shown in FIG. 5(c). In this case, the intermediate medium 70 can be considered, for example, as a medium (intermediate transfer medium) used during the transfer operation. More specifically, in this case, for example, an intermediate medium 70 that easily adheres to the transfer layer of the transfer medium 50 is used to remove at least a portion of the area of ​​the transfer medium 50 other than the transfer image area 302, thereby forming a non-transfer area on the transfer medium 50. In this case, the area to be removed from the transfer medium 50 is removed from the transfer medium 50 while still adhering to the intermediate medium 70, as shown as removed area 316 in the drawing. In this case, for example, the area of ​​the transfer medium 50 from which the removed area 316 has been removed can be considered to become the transfer suppression treatment area 314.

[0048] Furthermore, to prevent the resin constituting the transfer layer from adhering to the transfer medium in areas other than the transfer image area 302 on the transfer medium 50, it is possible to perform a treatment on the transfer medium 60, as shown in FIGS. 6(a) and 6(b). FIG. 6(a) shows an example of performing a transfer prevention treatment on a portion of the transfer medium 60. In this case, the transfer prevention treatment can be considered, for example, as a treatment that makes it difficult for the transfer layer of the transfer medium 50 to transfer to the transfer medium 60. The transfer prevention treatment can also be considered, for example, as a treatment that reduces the adhesiveness of the transfer layer. The transfer prevention treatment can be, for example, a treatment using a crosslinking agent. In this case, for example, as shown in the figure, the transfer prevention treatment is performed on the area of ​​the transfer medium 60 (part of the transfer medium 60) corresponding to the peripheral area 304 of the transfer medium 50, thereby forming a transfer prevention treatment area 322 on the transfer medium 60. This also makes the peripheral area 304 of the transfer medium 50 a non-transfer area. In this case, for example, a transfer prevention treatment area 322 is formed on the transfer medium 60, and the transfer medium 50 and the transfer medium 60 are aligned, so that a non-transfer area corresponding to the transfer prevention treatment area 322 is formed on the transfer medium 50. Even in this configuration, for example, a non-transfer area can be appropriately formed on the transfer medium 50.

[0049] FIG. 6B shows an example in which a process for improving the adhesiveness of the transfer layer (transfer layer adhesiveness improvement process) is performed on a portion of the transfer medium 60. The transfer layer adhesiveness improvement process can be considered, for example, as a process for making it easier for the transfer layer of the transfer medium 50 to be transferred to the transfer medium 60. In this case, for example, the portion of the transfer medium 60 that overlaps with the transfer image region 302 of the transfer medium 50 during the pressure bonding process is designated as an adhesiveness improvement region 324, and the transfer layer adhesiveness improvement process is performed on the adhesiveness improvement region 324. In this case, for example, the conditions of the pressure bonding process can be determined according to the characteristics of the adhesiveness improvement region 324. In this configuration, for example, it can be considered that the transfer layer of the transfer medium 50 is less likely to be transferred to the transfer medium 60 in the portions of the transfer medium 60 other than the adhesiveness improvement region 324. Furthermore, as a result, the peripheral region 304 of the transfer medium 50 can be considered to be a non-transfer region. In this configuration, for example, a non-transfer region can be appropriately formed on the transfer medium 50.

[0050] Another possible treatment for increasing the adhesiveness of the transfer image region 302 on the transfer medium 50 is to perform a treatment on the transfer layer. FIG. 6(c) shows an example of a treatment for changing the adhesiveness of the transfer layer of the transfer medium 50. In this case, for example, by performing a treatment to increase the adhesiveness of the transfer layer on the transfer image region 302 on the transfer medium 50 (transfer layer adhesiveness improvement treatment), the transfer image region 302 becomes a transfer activation region 326 with increased adhesiveness. In this case, it can be considered that the adhesiveness of the transfer layer in the peripheral region 304 other than the transfer image region 302 is reduced relative to the transfer activation region 326. This can also be considered to result in the peripheral region 304 of the transfer medium 50 becoming a non-transfer region, as in the case described above with reference to FIG. 6(a). Even with this configuration, for example, a non-transfer region can be appropriately formed on the transfer medium 50. In this case, for example, before printing the transfer image, the transfer image region 302 on which the transfer image will be printed is pretreated with a crosslinking agent to form the transfer activation region 326. In this case, for example, a crosslinking agent or the like that enhances adhesion depending on its compatibility with the ink can be used. This configuration can appropriately enhance the adhesion of the transfer layer in the transfer activation region 326. In addition, as a modified example of the method for forming the transfer activation region 326, for example, a transfer image can be printed using ink mixed with such a crosslinking agent.

[0051] As described above, the transfer medium 50 used in this example may have a paper base layer. In this case, if an image, such as a transfer image, is printed on the transfer medium 50 and then transferred a long time later, the transfer may not be performed properly. More specifically, when a paper base layer is used, the interface with the release layer may be rougher than when a resin base layer is used. Furthermore, as time passes after printing an image on the transfer medium 50, ink migration may occur within the transfer layer, causing the ink to reach the release layer and the base layer. This may cause a change in the releasability of the base layer, making it difficult to peel. This may also affect the quality of the transfer. The inventors of the present application conducted actual experiments using the transfer medium 50 with the configuration described above to confirm the occurrence of such transfer defects.

[0052] Therefore, when using such a transfer medium 50, it is preferable to manage the transfer medium 50 by recording the printing timing, which is the timing at which an image is printed on the transfer medium 50. More specifically, in this case, for example, a transfer medium management method for managing a transfer medium on which an image to be transferred to a transfer medium is printed can be considered to include a printing timing recording step and an elapsed time confirmation step. In this case, the printing timing recording step is, for example, a step of recording the printing timing, which is the timing at which an image is printed on the transfer medium 50. Furthermore, the elapsed time confirmation step is, for example, a step of confirming the elapsed time, which is the time elapsed since the printing timing, for the transfer medium 50 on which the image is printed. Furthermore, in this case, it is considered to manage the transfer medium 50 so that the image is transferred from the transfer medium 50 to the transfer medium before the elapsed time exceeds a predetermined time. With this configuration, for example, transfer can be performed more appropriately even when a transfer medium 50 having a paper base layer is used. Furthermore, in this case, the elapsed time confirmation step is, for example, a step of confirming the elapsed time using a computer. If the elapsed time exceeds a predetermined time, it is considered to issue a warning to the user, for example. With this configuration, for example, the transfer medium 50 can be managed more appropriately. Also, in the print timing recording stage, the print timing may be recorded by, for example, printing information indicating the print timing on the transfer medium 50 together with the image. With this configuration, for example, the print timing can be recorded appropriately and reliably on the transfer medium 50. In this case, for example, it is conceivable that the printing device 102 (see FIG. 1) in the printing unit 12 prints the print timing as a non-transfer item such as management information 224 (see FIG. 4). Furthermore, in this case, it is also conceivable that a mask that covers the portion on which the print timing is printed is formed by the mask forming printing device 104 (see FIG. 1). [Industrial Applicability]

[0053] The present invention can be suitably used in, for example, an image transfer method. [Explanation of symbols]

[0054] 10 Printing system, 102 Printing device, 104 Printing device, 12 Printing section, 14 Transfer section, 16 Peeling section, 18 Control section, 202 Image, 204 Margin, 206 Non-transfer area, 212 Periphery, 214 Non-transfer section, 222 Registration marks, 224 Management information, 302 Transfer Image area, 304...peripheral area, 312...mask, 314...transfer suppression treatment area, 316...removal section, 322...transfer prevention treatment area, 324...adhesion improvement area, 326...transfer activation area, 50...transfer medium, 52...base layer, 54...transfer layer, 56...peeling layer, 60...transfer receiving medium, 70...intermediate medium

Claims

1. A method for forming an image for transfer, which involves transferring an image printed on a transfer medium to a transfer medium, The aforementioned transfer medium is The base layer is a layer that serves as the substrate for the transfer medium, A transfer layer, which is formed in at least a portion of the base layer and has the image printed on it, and which is a portion that is transferred to the transfer medium when the transfer is performed by placing the transfer medium on top of the transfer medium and applying pressure, and It has, A method for forming an image for transfer, characterized in that a non-transfer region is formed in a transfer target region, which is a region that is not transferred to the transfer medium, in a region that corresponds to a portion where pressure is applied to the transfer medium when the transfer is performed.

2. The method for forming a transfer image according to Claim 1, characterized in that a mask is formed to cover a part of the transfer target area, thereby forming the non-transfer area on the transfer medium.

3. The method for forming a transfer image according to claim 2, characterized in that when forming the non-transfer area, ultraviolet-curable ink is ejected from the inkjet head onto the transfer medium, and the ultraviolet-curable ink is cured under gloss printing conditions to form the mask on the transfer medium.

4. When printing the image onto the transfer medium, The non-transfer items, which are items other than the transfer image that are to be transferred to the transfer medium, are further printed onto the transfer medium. By forming the non-transferable region on the transfer medium, which includes the area on which the non-transferable items are printed, The method for forming a transfer image according to claim 1, characterized in that when the transfer is performed, the non-transferable items are not transferred to the transfer medium, and the transfer image is transferred to the transfer medium.

5. The method for forming a transfer image according to claim 4, characterized in that a position reference mark, which is a mark indicating the position of the transfer image, is printed on the transfer medium as the non-transfer item.

6. The method for forming a transfer image according to claim 4, characterized in that the non-transfer items indicating management information used for managing the transfer medium are printed on the transfer medium.

7. A non-transfer region forming apparatus characterized in that, in a transfer target region which is a region corresponding to a portion to which pressure is applied to the transfer medium when the transfer is performed, a non-transfer region is formed which is a region in which at least a part of the image printed on the transfer medium is not transferred to the transfer medium.

8. A printing apparatus for printing an image onto a transfer medium, A non-transfer region forming apparatus that forms a non-transfer region, which is a region that is not transferred to the transfer medium, in a transfer target region, which is a region corresponding to the part to which pressure is applied to the transfer medium during the transfer in which the transfer is performed, A transfer unit that transfers at least a portion of the image printed on the transfer medium to the medium to be transferred by placing the transfer medium on top of the medium to be transferred and applying pressure. A printing system characterized by comprising the following features.

Images