Flexible sheet material with a geometric shape

Abstract

The objective is to provide a flexible sheet material having a geometric shape. [Solution] The invention comprises a flexible sheet-like material and a figure which is a multilayer structure cut into a shape, wherein the figure comprises a first adhesive layer, a printed layer on which a design is printed and bonded to the first adhesive layer, a transparent or translucent surface film layer and a second adhesive layer, the surface film layer being bonded to the printed layer by the second adhesive layer, and a covering film covering the printed design. The figure is bonded to the sheet-like material via the first adhesive layer, and the figure and its design maintain their integrity and can withstand washing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to flexible sheet materials such as fabrics, leathers, and plastic films, and particularly to a flexible sheet material with a pattern formed thereon.

Background Art

[0002] Currently, printable heat transfer vinyl is commercially available in the DIY market and can be purchased by consumers. After printing and cutting out a pattern on the heat transfer film, the consumer can adhere the pattern to clothing by heat treatment. This makes it possible to impart a unique pattern to the clothing and give a distinctive and personalized impression compared to others.

[0003] In order to increase consumers' willingness to purchase, manufacturers of heat transfer films produce a variety of heat transfer films with different colors, backgrounds, patterns, etc., and display them in stores, etc. to offer to consumers.

[0004] However, manufacturing a variety of heat transfer films involves various problems. For example, as the types of heat transfer films diversify, the inventory quantity and storage space increase, and the occurrence of unsold and unpopular products becomes a cost burden for manufacturers. In addition, an increase in the types of products manufactured is not preferable from the perspective of environmental impact.

[0005] Furthermore, regarding printable heat transfer films sold in the DIY market, general consumers use home printers from Epson, Canon, and HP to print dye-based inks onto the heat transfer film to form designs, or use toner-based laser printers to print designs onto the heat transfer film. In designs formed by heat-pressing the heat transfer film onto the surface of clothing, the printed layer of the heat transfer film is very loose and has low resistance to washing. After two to three washes, the ink or toner on the design peels off, bleeds, or spreads, resulting in a damaged or incomplete design. In addition, color fading occurs, and the vividness of the colors gradually decreases. Home printers are designed for printing on paper and are not suitable for printing on clothing. Therefore, if the design is incomplete and the colors are not vibrant, consumers will stop wearing the clothing, and it is difficult to completely remove the design from the clothing. As a result, the design is damaged and the appearance is significantly impaired, forcing the clothing to be discarded, leading to waste of resources. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] One object of the present invention is to provide a flexible sheet material having a figure on it, in which the figure and design on the sheet material are resistant to washing and can maintain their integrity and vividness of color.

[0007] One objective of the present invention is to provide a flexible sheet material having a graphic design that can be customized and manufactured by DIY. This reduces the number of product types used to create the graphic, significantly reducing the number of product types and inventory required, thereby contributing to a reduction in environmental impact and the prevention of resource waste. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The flexible sheet material having a figure according to the present invention comprises a flexible sheet-like material and a figure which is a multilayer structure cut into a shape. The aforementioned sheet-like material may be cloth, leather, plastic film, paper, wood sheet, or metal sheet. The aforementioned figure is, First adhesive layer, A design is printed on top, one surface is bonded to the first adhesive layer, and the design is bonded to the printed layer located on the other surface. A covering film comprising a transparent or translucent surface film layer and a second adhesive layer, wherein the surface film layer is bonded to the other surface of the printed layer by the second adhesive layer, and the covering film covers the printed design, The figure is bonded to the sheet-like material via the first adhesive layer.

[0009] This makes it possible for consumers or businesses to create figures with various designs on the flexible sheet material, and the figures are resistant to washing, and the figures and their designs can be preserved in perfect condition.

[0010] Preferably, the first adhesive layer is a hot-melt adhesive layer, and the figure is bonded to the sheet-like material by the hot-melt adhesive layer developing adhesive properties upon heating.

[0011] Preferably, one surface of the surface film layer of the coating film is bonded to the second adhesive layer, and the other surface is a patterned surface having a convex pattern or a pattern that forms a laser effect, and the pattern that forms the laser effect can create an effect such as a laser-treated surface effect or a 2D / 3D effect on the surface of the surface film layer.

[0012] Preferably, the coating film includes a zinc sulfide layer bonded to one surface of the surface film layer, and the zinc sulfide layer imparts a rainbow (multicolor) effect to the light refracted from the surface film layer.

[0013] Preferably, the coating film includes a metal layer that bonds to one surface of the surface film layer, and the partial bonding with the metal layer forms a foil-stamped film that is locally transparent and locally opaque.

[0014] Preferably, pearl powder, glitter powder, or phosphorescent powder (phosphorescent particles) is added to the surface film layer of the coating film. The pearl powder imparts an iridescent (multicolored) effect to the surface film layer. The glitter powder imparts a metallic luster to the surface film layer. The phosphorescent powder makes the surface film layer a phosphorescent layer, and thus has a phosphorescent effect.

[0015] Preferably, thermochromic powder is added to the surface film layer, resulting in a transparent or translucent thermochromic layer, which provides the effect of changing color in response to temperature changes.

[0016] Preferably, photochromic powder is added to the surface film layer, resulting in a transparent or translucent photochromic layer that changes color upon irradiation with ultraviolet light or light of other frequencies.

[0017] Preferably, a minute optical element, such as a minute convex lens, a minute concave lens, or a minute convex or concave droplet-shaped member, is provided on one surface of the surface film layer, thereby generating light reflection and refraction effects.

[0018] Preferably, the surface film layer is a transparent or translucent reflective layer comprising a reflective member (e.g., a glass microsphere) capable of reflecting light. Furthermore, the surface film layer is a reflective layer coated or vapor-deposited with zinc sulfide, which can produce a rainbow (multicolor) effect. The zinc sulfide is provided on one surface of the reflective member.

[0019] Preferably, an ultraviolet inhibitor is added to the surface film layer, thereby giving the surface film layer resistance to sunlight and ultraviolet rays.

[0020] Preferably, the second adhesive layer of the coating film is a hot melt adhesive layer that exhibits adhesiveness upon heating.

[0021] Preferably, the size of the micro-optical member or the glass microspheres is at least 10, 20, 25, 40, 50, 75, 100 or 150 microns (μm) and at most 200, 400, 500, 600, 800, 900, 1000 or 1500 μm.

[0022] The objects, features and effects of the present invention can be understood from the following description of the preferred embodiments and the drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0023] [Figure 1] It is a schematic cross-sectional view of a flexible sheet material having a figure according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1A] It is a schematic cross-sectional view of a flexible sheet material having a figure according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] It is a schematic cross-sectional view of a thermal transfer material used for the figure of the present invention. [Figure 3] It is a schematic cross-sectional view of a coating film used for the figure of the present invention. [Figure 4] Schematic cross-sectional views of coating films according to multiple embodiments of the present invention (the release layer is omitted in the figures. [Figure 5] Schematic cross-sectional views of coating films according to multiple embodiments of the present invention (the release layer is omitted in the figures. [Figure 5A] Schematic cross-sectional views of coating films according to multiple embodiments of the present invention (the release layer is omitted in the figures, and Fig. 5A is a schematic top view of Fig. 5. [Figure 5B] Schematic cross-sectional views of coating films according to multiple embodiments of the present invention (the release layer is omitted in the figures, and Fig. 5B is a real object view of the coating film of Fig. 5). [Figure 6] Schematic cross-sectional views of coating films according to multiple embodiments of the present invention (the release layer is omitted in the figures. [Figure 7]Schematic cross-sectional view of a coating film according to multiple embodiments of the present invention (the release layer is omitted in the figure). [Figure 8] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a coating film according to two other embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 9] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a coating film according to two other embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 10A] This diagram shows the manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 10B] This diagram shows the manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 10C] This diagram shows the manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 11A] This diagram shows the manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 11B] This diagram shows the manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 11C] This diagram shows the manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 12A] This diagram shows the manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 12B] This diagram shows the manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 12C] This diagram shows the manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 13] This diagram shows the manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 14] This diagram shows the manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 15] This diagram shows the manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 16A] This diagram shows the manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 16B] This diagram shows the manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 17]This figure shows a product of a flexible sheet material according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] This diagram shows another manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 19] This diagram shows another manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 20A] This diagram shows another manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 20B] This diagram shows another manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 21] This diagram shows another manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 22] This diagram shows another manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 23A] This diagram shows another manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 23B] This diagram shows another manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 24A] This diagram shows another manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 24B] This diagram shows another manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 25] This diagram shows another manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 26A] This diagram shows another manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 26B] This diagram shows another manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 27] This diagram shows another manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 28] This diagram shows another manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 29A] This diagram shows another manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 29B] This diagram shows another manufacturing process for forming shapes on a flexible sheet material. [Figure 30] This figure shows a product of a flexible sheet material according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 31] Figure 30 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the flexible sheet material. [Figure 32] This figure shows a product of a flexible sheet material according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 33] This figure shows a product of a flexible sheet material according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 34] This figure shows a product of a flexible sheet material according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 35] This figure shows a product of a flexible sheet material according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 36] This figure shows a product of a flexible sheet material according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 37] This figure shows a product of a flexible sheet material according to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 38] This figure shows a product of a flexible sheet material according to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 39] This figure shows a product of a flexible sheet material according to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 40] This figure shows a product of a flexible sheet material according to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 41] This figure shows a product of a flexible sheet material according to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 42] This figure shows a product of a flexible sheet material according to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 43] This figure shows a product of a flexible sheet material according to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 44]This figure shows a product of a flexible sheet material according to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0024] The present invention relates to a flexible sheet material having a graphic design. Consumers and businesses (e.g., sporting goods stores, clothing stores, leather goods stores, bag and pouch stores, etc.) can use the technology disclosed in the present invention to form graphic designs on various flexible sheet materials themselves. The flexible sheet material may be fabric, leather, plastic film, paper, wood chips, etc. The fabric may be various woven or nonwoven fabrics, and may be fabrics used for clothing, garments, bags, or pouches, for example (but not limited to), various men's and women's clothing, trousers, socks, shoes, headscarves, scarves, bags, backpacks, tote bags, etc. The preferred embodiments disclosed in the present invention can be combined with each other, provided that there is no contradiction or intentional exclusion.

[0025] Figure 1 shows a flexible sheet material 80 having a figure according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The flexible sheet material 80 having a figure comprises a flexible sheet-like material 55 and a figure 45 provided on the sheet-like material 55. The figure 45 is a multilayered structure that, after being cut into a desired shape, is attached to one surface (outer surface) of the sheet-like material 55 and has a printed design. In this specification, the sheet-like material 55 is exemplified as fabric, but may be leather, plastic film, plastic sheet, metal sheet, paper, wood veneer, etc. The figure 45 comprises a printed layer 12, a first adhesive layer 14, and a covering film 20. The figure 45 is bonded to the sheet-like material 55 via the first adhesive layer 14. Any suitable adhesive for bonding the figure 45 to the sheet-like material 55 and preventing it from falling off can be used as the first adhesive layer 14. In this preferred embodiment, the first adhesive layer 14 is a hot melt adhesive layer. The coating film 20 includes a transparent or translucent surface film layer 22 and a second adhesive layer 24. The printed layer 12, the hot-melt adhesive layer 14, and the coating film 20 of the figure 45 have the same cut shape. The surface film layer 22 of the coating film 20 covers the design of the printed layer 12 and can be configured as a functional layer. This allows for various decorative or surface effects to be applied to the figure 45, improving its aesthetic or appearance. For example, if one surface of the surface film layer 22 is an uneven patterned surface, it can provide an uneven pattern, a laser effect pattern, or a 2D / 3D effect pattern. Alternatively, the surface film layer 22 may have an iridescent (multicolor) effect or metallic luster, and may also have a reflective or phosphorescent function. In addition, the surface film layer 22 may have a thermosensitive effect in response to temperature changes or a photosensitive effect in response to light intensity.

[0026] The following describes the process of forming the figure 45 on the sheet-like material 55, and the technical means for imparting a decorative effect or surface effect with the surface film layer 22.

[0027] Please refer to Figures 2 and 3. Figures 2 and 3 are cross-sectional views of a printable thermal transfer material 10 and an uncut coating film 20, respectively. Both 10 and 20 are products manufactured by the applicant and are used to create the figure 45. The thermal transfer material 10 comprises an uncut printing layer 12 and a hot melt adhesive layer 14 bonded to one surface (inner surface) of the printing layer 12. The printing layer 12 and the hot melt adhesive layer 14 are provided on a carrier layer 16, and the hot melt adhesive layer 14 is located between the printing layer 12 and the carrier layer 16. A design can be printed on the other surface (outer surface) of the printing layer 12 using ink or toner with an inkjet printer or laser printer. The thermal transfer material 10 according to this embodiment of the present invention is an aqueous thermal transfer material and has an environmentally friendly configuration. The material of the printing layer is not limited to this embodiment. The carrier layer 16 is preferably made of paper or polymer material and has release properties. The printed layer 12 and the hot melt adhesive layer 14 can be peeled off integrally from the carrier layer 16.

[0028] The coating film 20 is a special film material provided in the present invention, comprising a surface film layer 22 and a second adhesive layer 24 bonded to one surface of the surface film layer 22, the other surface 221 of the surface film layer 22 bonded to a release layer 26. Both the surface film layer 22 and the second adhesive layer 24 are in an uncut state. The release layer 26 is made of PET (Polyethylene terephthalate) or CPP (Cast Polypropylene) material, and may be made of paper. The surface film layer 22 is a transparent or translucent layered body, and may be made of a polymer thin film such as a PU film, but is not limited thereto. As shown in Figure 2, the surface film layer 22 is formed by applying liquid PU onto the release layer 26. The second adhesive layer 24 is a transparent adhesive layer, preferably a heat-activated adhesive layer that exhibits adhesive properties upon heating. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the second adhesive layer 24 may be a transparent hot-melt adhesive made of a material such as PP, TPE (Thermoplastic elastomer), TPU (Thermoplastic polyurethane), PES (Polyethersulfone), or EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate), and is provided on the other surface of the surface film layer 22 by a coating or bonding method.

[0029] Refer to Figure 3. An embossed surface 261 having a pattern may be formed on one surface of the release layer 26. Preferably, the pattern consists of multiple types of patterns, for example, fine uneven shapes. The uneven pattern may be regular or irregular and may include, but is not limited to, dotted or striped patterns. After the surface film layer 22 is applied to the embossed surface 261 and molded, the surface in contact with the embossed surface 261 is treated or specially made to become a patterned surface 221 having an embossed pattern 222, the pattern 222 of which mirrors the embossed surface 261. The surface film layer 22 and the adhesive layer 24 can be peeled off integrally from the release layer 26.

[0030] As an alternative, the pattern 222 on the patterned surface 221 of the surface film layer 22 has an appearance similar to a transparent laser-processed surface. That is, the patterned surface 221 exhibits a laser-treated surface effect or a 2D / 3D visual effect. The pattern 222 can be formed via the embossed uneven surface 261 of the release layer 26.

[0031] As an alternative example, Figure 4 shows another embodiment of the coating film, in which a zinc sulfide layer 27 is coated on one surface of the surface film layer 22 of the coating film 20A, thereby imparting an iridescent effect to the surface film layer 22, that is, the light reflected from the surface film material exhibits a variety of colors. The zinc sulfide layer 27 is positioned between the surface film layer 22 and the adhesive layer 24.

[0032] As an alternative example, Figures 5, 5A, and 5B show another embodiment of the coating film, wherein a metal layer 28 is provided on one surface of the surface film layer 22 of the coating film 20B, and the metal layer 28 may be a chrome-plated layer, an aluminum-plated layer, or any other suitable metal layer, and is provided on one surface of the surface film layer 22 by plating or coating, and is located between the surface film layer 22 and the adhesive layer 24, thereby forming a foil-stamped film on the surface film layer 22. Referring to Figures 5A and 5B, these are schematic top views of the coating film 20B, showing only the surface film layer 22 and the metal layer 28. The metal layer 28 is provided only on a portion of the surface of the surface film layer 22 and does not cover the entire surface film layer 22, so that the portion of the surface film layer 22 not covered by the metal layer 28 remains transparent or translucent, ensuring the visibility of the design on the heat transfer material. The metal layer 28 may be regular or irregular, and may include shapes such as dots or stripes. Figures 5A and 5B show examples of the shape of the metal layer 28, but are not limited to these examples.

[0033] As an alternative example, Figure 6 shows another embodiment of the coating film, in which 1 to 5% by weight of an additive 29 is mixed into the surface film layer 22C of the coating film 20C, and the additive 29 may be pearl powder, glitter powder (colored fine aluminum foil), or phosphorescent powder (phosphorescent particles). The pearl powder imparts a rainbow (multicolored) light effect to the surface film layer 22C, the glitter powder imparts a metallic luster to the surface film layer 22C, and different shades of metallic luster can be obtained depending on the color of the glitter powder. The phosphorescent powder imparts a phosphorescent effect to the surface film layer 22C, making it luminescent at night.

[0034] As an alternative, if the additive 29 of the surface film layer 22C is a thermochromic powder, the surface film layer becomes a transparent or translucent thermochromic film (temperature-sensitive color-changing film), which can produce a color change on the surface in response to temperature changes.

[0035] As an alternative example, if the additive 29 of the surface film layer 22C is a photochromic powder, the surface film layer becomes a transparent or translucent photochromic film (photoresponsive color-changing film), and a color change can be produced on the surface by irradiation with light of a specific frequency (e.g., ultraviolet light).

[0036] As an alternative, if the additive 29 of the surface film layer 22C is a fragrance, the surface film layer will have a fragrance, and it is also possible to use a fragrance that has a mosquito-repellent effect.

[0037] As an alternative example, if the additive 29 of the surface film layer 22C is an ultraviolet inhibitor, the surface film layer will have resistance to ultraviolet rays and sunlight.

[0038] As an alternative example, Figure 7 shows another embodiment of the coating film, in which a fine optical structure is formed on the patterned surface 221 of the surface film layer 22D of the coating film 20D, and minute optical components are provided. For example, minute convex lenses 223 or concave lenses, or minute droplet-shaped components (hereinafter abbreviated as "small droplets") are provided, and preferably these convex lenses 223, concave lenses, or small droplets are formed by the embossed uneven surface 261 of the release layer 26. Each convex lens 223 has a structure that is convex outward and protrudes from the surface of the surface film layer 22. Each concave lens has a structure that is concave inward and is formed recessed from the patterned surface 221 of the surface film layer. Each small droplet may have a structure that is convex outward or concave inward. The convex lenses 223, concave lenses, or small droplets produce light reflection and refraction effects on the surface of the surface film layer 22D.

[0039] As an alternative example, the surface film layer of the coating film is a transparent or translucent reflective material. In the coating film 20E shown in Figure 8, a transparent or translucent reflective layer 25 is used as the surface film layer 22E, and the reflective layer 25 is a layer made up of minute glass microspheres, and one surface of the glass microsphere layer 25 is bonded to the second adhesive layer 24 by a transparent adhesive or adhesive 251. A release layer 26 is provided on the other surface of the glass microsphere layer. The surface film layer 22E and the second adhesive layer 24 can be separated integrally from the release layer 26.

[0040] The size of the minute optical element, the minute glass microsphere, and the fine uneven shape is at least 10, 20, 25, 40, 50, 75, 100, or 150 microns (μm), and at most 200, 400, 500, 600, 800, 900, 1000, or 1500 μm.

[0041] As an alternative example, Figure 9 shows another embodiment of the coating film, the coating film 20F comprising a transparent or translucent surface film layer 22F, a second adhesive layer 24, and a release layer 26, wherein the surface film layer 22F comprises a glass microsphere layer 25, a transparent or translucent adhesive or adhesive 251, and a zinc sulfide layer 252 applied to or covering one surface (inner surface) of the glass microsphere layer 25 and located between the glass microsphere layer 25 and the second adhesive layer 24. The adhesive 251 is a TPU, PUR (Polyurethane Reactive), or acrylic hot melt adhesive. The glass microsphere layer 25 of the surface film layer 22F can reflect light, and the zinc sulfide layer 252 imparts an iridescent effect to the reflected light. The surface film layer 22F and the second adhesive layer 24 are integrally separable from the release layer 26.

[0042] In the embodiments disclosed herein, the surface film layers 22, 22F having zinc sulfide layers 27, 252 and the surface film layer 22C to which pearl powder or glitter powder is added are translucent film materials. The surface film layer 22 shown in Figure 3, the surface film layer 22 having a metal layer shown in Figure 5, and the surface film layers 22D, 22E shown in Figures 7 and 8 may be transparent or translucent film materials.

[0043] Figures 10A to 17 show an example of the manufacturing process for a flexible sheet material 80 having the shape shown in Figure 1. The coating layer 20 and surface film layer 22 described below include the coating layer and surface film layer in each embodiment shown in Figures 3 to 9.

[0044] First, the design 32 is printed onto the printing layer 12 of the printable thermal transfer material 10 shown in Figure 2.

[0045] Computer printing is a printing technology that can be easily implemented even in ordinary households. Figures 10A to 10C show how a consumer prints a design 32 on the printing layer 12 of the thermal transfer material 10 using ink or toner with a home printer 30 manufactured by Epson, Canon, or HP. The design 32 can consist of various figures such as people, animals, non-people, non-animals, letters, or non-letters, and can be expressed in one color or multiple colors, with multiple colors being particularly preferred. Figures 10A to 10C show three different designs 32. Figure 10A is a design of a non-animal with feathers, Figure 10B is a design of a fish, and Figure 10C is a design of a person. Consumers can freely design and print the patterns, styles, and colors of the design 32. The ink that can be printed on the printing layer 12 may be dye ink or sublimation ink (also called thermal sublimation ink).

[0046] The covering film 20 shown in Figure 3 is placed on top of the printed layer 12 of the heat transfer material 10 and bonded to cover the design 32.

[0047] Referring to Figures 11A to 11C, the covering film 20 is placed on the heat transfer material 10, and the covering film 20 is bonded to the printing layer 12 of the heat transfer material 10 by the second adhesive layer 24, covering the design 32. The adhesive layer 24 is a hot melt adhesive that becomes adhesive when heated, so consumers can heat the covering film 20 and the heat transfer material 10 using an ironing appliance at home, such as an electric iron or the heat press machine 34 shown in Figures 11A and 11B, so that the covering film 20 is bonded to the printing layer 12 via the second adhesive layer (hot melt adhesive) 24, covering and protecting the design 32. After the coating film 20 and the heat transfer material 10 are bonded together, the release layer 26 of the coating film 20 is peeled off, leaving only the surface film layer 22 of the coating film 20 on the heat transfer material 10. This layer is then attached to the printing layer 12, covering the design 32 and protecting the design 32 from contact with the outside.

[0048] The figure 45 is cut out from the bonded heat transfer material 10 and the covering film 20.

[0049] The bonded heat transfer material 10 and the surface film layer 22 of the coating film 20 form a laminated film material 40. Next, referring to Figures 12A to 12C, a shape 45 is cut out from the laminated film material 40. Consumers can cut it using a household cutting machine 42, such as a CRICUT cutting machine, as shown in Figures 12A and 12C. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 12B, the shape can be cut out manually from the laminated film material 40 using cutting tools such as a utility knife or scissors. The household cutting machine 42 cuts the shape under computer control, and the bird shape shown in Figure 14 is a shape 45 cut out by the cutting machine 42 in Figure 12A. Referring to Figure 13, the cutting depth D of the blade of the cutting machine 42 is the depth to penetrate the surface film layer 22, the second adhesive layer 24, the printed layer 12 on which the design 32 is printed, and the hot melt adhesive layer 14. Figure 12B shows an example of cutting out a fish shape 45 with scissors. Figure 12C shows how a cutting machine 42 cuts out a shape from the laminated film material 40, and the cutting machine 42 cuts out a rectangular shape 45 along the outline of the design 32.

[0050] Next, as shown in Figure 14, the parts other than the figure 45 are peeled off, that is, the waste material 46 that does not belong to the figure 45 is removed, leaving only the figure 45. The figure 45 formed by cutting includes the hot melt adhesive layer 14, the printed layer 12 on which the design 32 is printed, the second adhesive layer 24, and the surface film layer 22, all of the same shape, stacked from bottom to top.

[0051] Referring to Figure 15, a transfer film 52 is prepared, and the cut-out figure 45 is transferred onto the transfer film 52. When the figure 45 is transferred to the transfer film 52, it is separated from the carrier layer 16 of the heat transfer material. The figure 45 (including the laminated surface film layer 22, the second adhesive layer 24, the printing layer 12, and the hot melt adhesive layer 14) is adhered or attached to the transfer film 52 after being separated from the carrier layer 16.

[0052] Next, as shown in Figures 16A and 16B, the transfer film 52 containing the figure 45 is placed on the fabric 55, and the hot melt adhesive layer 14 of the figure 45 is brought into contact with the fabric 55. Then, the transfer film 52 and the figure 45 are heated with an electric iron or a heat press 34, causing the hot melt adhesive layer 14 to heat up and develop adhesive properties, and the figure 45 is bonded to the surface of the fabric 55. As shown in Figures 1 and 17, a flexible sheet material 80 having the figure of the present invention is manufactured in this way. The figure 45 and its design 32 are covered by the surface film layer 22, and the design 32 is isolated from the outside by the surface film layer 22.

[0053] Figure 1A shows a cross-sectional view of a flexible sheet material 80A having a different shape, manufactured according to the process described above. When the surface film layer 22 is the surface film layer (22E, 22F) shown in Figure 8 or Figure 9, it has a reflective function. During the day, the surface film layer 22 does not reflect light, but at night, the glass microsphere layer 25 of the surface film layer 22 reflects light, imparting a reflective effect to the design 32.

[0054] Figures 18 to 30 show another manufacturing process for the flexible sheet material of the present invention. The coating layer 20 and surface film layer 22 described below include the coating layer and surface film layer in each embodiment shown in Figures 3 to 9.

[0055] As shown in Figure 18, a design 32 is computer-printed onto the printing layer 12 of the thermal transfer material 10 using a home printer 30. The design 32 can consist of various figures such as people, animals, non-people, non-animals, letters, or non-letters. This process is the same as the printing process shown in Figures 10A to 10C.

[0056] Referring to Figure 19, after the printing of the design 32 is completed, the design 32 can be heated with an electric iron or a heat press 34 to dry the ink of the design and fix it in place.

[0057] The first figure 60 is cut out from the heat transfer material, and the parts other than the first figure 60 are removed, leaving only the first figure 60.

[0058] As shown in Figure 12B, the shape can be cut out from the heat transfer material 10 by hand using a utility knife or scissors, or, as shown in Figure 20A or Figure 20B, the first shape 60 can be cut out from the heat transfer material 10 using a household cutting machine 42 under computer control. The cutting depth D of the first shape 60 is the depth that penetrates the printed layer 12 and the hot melt adhesive layer 14 (see Figure 21).

[0059] Next, as shown in Figure 22, the parts other than the first figure 60 are peeled off and the waste material 62 is removed, leaving only the first figure 60 on the carrier layer 16. At this time, the first figure 60 includes the printed layer 12 on which the design 32 is printed and the hot melt adhesive layer 14.

[0060] Please refer to Figures 23A and 23B. A transfer film 52 is prepared, and the cut-out first figure 60 is transferred onto the transfer film 52. After the first figure 60 is transferred to the transfer film 52, it is separated from the carrier layer 16 of the heat transfer material 10.

[0061] Next, as shown in Figures 24A and 24B, the transfer film 52 including the first figure 60 is placed on the fabric 55, the hot melt adhesive layer 14 of the first figure 60 is brought into contact with the fabric 55, and then the transfer film 52 and the first figure 60 are heated with an electric iron or a heat press machine 34, the hot melt adhesive layer 14 is heated and develops adhesive properties, and the first figure 60 is adhered to the surface of the fabric 55.

[0062] A covering film 20 as shown in Figure 3 is prepared, and a graphic film 70 is cut out from the covering film 20 by hand or by a household cutting machine 42 as shown in Figure 25. Figures 26A and 26B show the graphic film 70. The shape of the graphic film 70 is the same as or substantially the same as the shape of the first graphic 60. By using computer cutting, that is, a computer-controlled cutting machine 42, a graphic film 70 that matches the shape of the first graphic 60 can be cut out. On the other hand, by hand, it is possible to obtain a graphic film 70 that is substantially the same shape as the first graphic 60. It is desirable that the graphic film 70 completely covers the first graphic 60.

[0063] Next, as shown in Figures 26A and 26B, the portion other than the graphic film 70, i.e., the waste material 72, is removed so that only the cut graphic film 70 remains on the covering film 20. The graphic film 70 includes a laminated surface film layer 22 and a second adhesive layer 24. As is clear from Figures 25, 26A, and 26B, a fine uneven pattern 222 is formed on the surface of the surface film layer 22, so that the surface film layer 22 becomes a translucent film material. Note that the pattern 222 shown in Figures 25, 26A, and 26B is just one example of a surface film layer and does not limit the present invention.

[0064] Refer to Figure 27. A transfer film 52 is prepared, and the graphic film 70 is transferred to the transfer film 52. The graphic film 70 is separated from the carrier layer 16 of the heat transfer material. At this time, the graphic film 70 consists of the surface film layer 22 and the second adhesive layer 24 of the covering film 20, and is attached or bonded to the transfer film 52. Figure 27 shows the state in which the graphic film 70 has been transferred to the transfer film 52.

[0065] Next, as shown in Figure 27, the graphic film 70 is aligned with the first graphic 60 on the fabric 55, and as shown in Figure 28, the transfer film 52 and the graphic film 70 are heated with an electric iron or a heat press 34, causing the second adhesive layer (hot melt adhesive) 24 to become adhesive, and the graphic film 70 is bonded to the surface of the first graphic 60. Finally, as shown in Figures 29A and 29B, the transfer film 52 is peeled off and the first graphic 60 and the graphic film 70 are bonded to the fabric 55, thereby completing the flexible sheet material 80B having the graphic of the present invention (see Figures 30 and 31). The first graphic 60 and the graphic film 70 are bonded to the surface of the fabric 55 to form the graphic 45, and the graphic film 70 is bonded on the first graphic 60, and the printed design 32 on the printing layer 12 is covered and protected by the surface film layer 22, so it is not damaged. The appearance of the figure 45 and the design 32 is given a visual pattern effect formed by the pattern 222 of the surface film layer 22.

[0066] Figure 32 shows a flexible sheet material 80C according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, which can be manufactured by any of the processes described above. After manufacturing, a figure 45 with a design 32 is formed on the fabric 55, and the design 32 of the figure 45 is covered with a surface film layer 22. Since the surface film layer 22 of the flexible sheet material 80C contains glitter powder, a metallic luster effect is imparted to the surface of the figure 45.

[0067] Figures 33 to 36 show a flexible sheet material 80D according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, in which a figure 45 having multiple peacock patterns 32 is formed on a fabric 55, and each figure 45 surface film layer has a different surface effect. As shown in Figure 34, the surface film layer of figure 45A has a striped pattern, and the structure of figure 45B is the same as that shown in Figure 1A, and the surface film layer is a reflective film layer and comprises a glass microsphere layer 25 as shown in Figure 8 or Figure 9. As shown in Figures 33 and 35, when figure 45B is not reflective, the pattern of the figure can be seen. At night or in a dimly lit place, when light is shone on figure 45B, as shown in Figure 36, the surface film layer of figure 45B reflects the light, exhibiting an effect that improves safety.

[0068] Figures 37 to 41 show flexible sheet materials according to other preferred embodiments of the present invention. In the flexible sheet material 80E shown in Figure 37, a pattern having a laser effect is formed on the pattern 222 of the pattern surface 221 of the surface film layer of figure 45C, thereby making the surface film layer a laser-treated transparent film and imparting a laser pattern to figure 45C.

[0069] The flexible sheet material 80F shown in Figure 38 is manufactured using the covering film 20B shown in Figure 5B. The surface film layer is a foil-stamped film having a metal layer 28, thereby forming a foil-stamped pattern 222 and visual effect on the figure 45D.

[0070] The surface film layer of the flexible sheet material 80G shown in Figure 39 has a fine polka dot pattern formed on it, which gives the figure 45E a fine polka dot pattern 222.

[0071] In the flexible sheet material 80H shown in Figures 40 and 41, thermochromic powder is added to the surface film layer, forming a transparent or translucent thermochromic film that changes color in response to temperature changes. When there is no change in temperature, the figure 45F does not change color and remains in the state shown in Figure 40. On the other hand, when the surface film layer is subjected to a temperature change, the color changes. Figure 41 shows how the temperature changes when the palm of a hand comes into contact with the figure 45F, resulting in the appearance of a discolored palm print 451 on the figure 45F. This palm print 451 is formed by the discoloration of the surface film layer and disappears when the temperature difference disappears.

[0072] Photochromic powder is added to the surface film layer of the flexible sheet material 80I shown in Figures 42 to 44, and the surface film layer forms a transparent or translucent photochromic film. When light of a specific frequency is irradiated onto figure 45G, ultraviolet light is irradiated from the lighting fixture 90, for example as shown in Figure 43, and the surface film layer of the irradiated area 452 changes color, causing the area 452 of figure 45G to change color (see Figure 44). If the irradiation of light is not continued, the discolored area 452 disappears after a certain period of time, and it returns to the original state shown in Figure 42.

[0073] The surface film layer of the flexible sheet material of the present invention can be enriched with phosphorescent powder, and the phosphorescent effect of the surface film layer makes the figure visible as a luminescent figure.

[0074] The flexible sheet material 80 provided by the present invention may be fabric, leather, plastic film, paper, wooden sheet, or metal sheet, and a figure with a design 32 can be formed on fabric such as clothing or trousers, or on other types of flexible sheet material. The figure 45 is protected and isolated by the surface film layer 22, so it is not damaged, and the ink or toner used in the design 32 of the figure 45 does not bleed, spread, or peel off, thus maintaining the integrity of the figure and its design on the fabric and preserving the vividness of the design's colors. In tests conducted by the inventors, even after washing the fabric 20 times in 60°C water and drying it, the figure and its design remained in perfect condition, the colors remained bright and vivid, and no damage or fading was observed. The figure 45 is also resistant to sunlight and ultraviolet (UV) rays.

[0075] The surface film layer 22 of the figure 45 functions as a functional layer and can impart various pattern effects, 2D / 3D visual effects, or reflective functions to the design 32. By coating the surface film layer 22 with a zinc sulfide layer or a metal layer, it is possible to impart a rainbow effect or foil stamping effect to the design 32. The metal layer is not formed over the entire surface film layer 22, allowing for display without impairing the visibility of the design 32. By adding pearl powder, glitter powder, phosphorescent powder, photochromic powder, or thermochromic powder to the surface film layer 22, it is possible to impart a rainbow effect, a metallic effect, or a phosphorescent effect to the figure 45, and also obtain an effect where the color changes in response to changes in light and temperature. In addition, it is also possible to add fragrance to the surface film layer. These various effects enhance the aesthetic appeal of the design and provide a visual and olfactory sensory experience.

[0076] Consumers can use the technology disclosed in this invention to create the figures 45 on fabric themselves. Furthermore, sportswear stores and general clothing stores can utilize the technology disclosed in this invention for various clothing items such as clothes, shoes, hats, scarves, headbands, wristbands, knee pads, towels, and socks, and can customize and create various figures 45 and designs 32 at any desired location on the clothing according to customer requests.

[0077] When a flexible sheet material with a geometric shape is manufactured by applying the present invention, only a small number of specifications are required for the coating film 20. That is, regardless of whether or not embossing is performed, it consists only of surface film layers having a reflective layer, a sulfide layer, a metal layer, pearl powder, glitter powder, phosphorescent powder, photochromic powder, thermochromic powder, and fragrance. In this way, the variations in the required protective film are small, so manufacturers are limited in the types of films they need to carry, can keep inventory low, reduce manufacturing and inventory costs, and are also environmentally friendly.

[0078] This invention can maintain the integrity of patterns and designs on clothing, extending the lifespan of clothing and reducing wear and tear. Furthermore, for manufacturers, the manufacturing method of this invention can significantly reduce the number of product types, thereby lowering manufacturing and development costs. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0079] 10 Thermal transfer materials 12 printing layer 14. First adhesive layer (hot melt adhesive layer) 16 Career Level 20, 20A~20F coating film 22, 22C~22F surface film layer 221 Patterned surface 222 patterns 223 Convex lens 24. Second adhesive layer 25 Glass microsphere layer 251 Adhesive 252, 27 Zinc sulfide layer 26. Delamination layer 261 Embossed uneven surface 28 Metal layer 29 Additives 30 Printers 32 designs 34. Heat-pressing press machine 40. Multilayer film materials 42 Cutting Machines 45, 45A~45G Shapes 451 Palm seal 452 Discolored area 46. ​​Waste materials 52 Transfer film 55 Sheet-like materials (fabric) 60 Figure 1 62, 72 Scrap materials 70 graphic film 80, 80A~80I Flexible Sheet Material D Cutting depth

Claims

1. A flexible sheet-like material, A multilayer structure cut into a specific shape, wherein a figure is provided on one surface of the sheet-like material, A flexible sheet material having a figure comprising, The aforementioned figure is, First adhesive layer, A design is printed on top, one surface is bonded to the first adhesive layer, and the design is bonded to the printed layer located on the other surface. A covering film comprising a transparent or translucent surface film layer and a second adhesive layer, wherein the surface film layer is bonded to the other surface of the printed layer by the second adhesive layer, and the covering film covers the printed design, The figure is bonded to the sheet-like material via the first adhesive layer. Flexible sheet material with a geometric shape.

2. The flexible sheet material according to claim 1, wherein one surface of the surface film layer of the coating film is bonded to the second adhesive layer, and the other surface of the coating film is a patterned surface having a pattern.

3. The flexible sheet material according to claim 2, wherein the pattern of the surface film layer is an uneven pattern or a pattern that forms a laser effect.

4. The flexible sheet material according to claim 1, 2, or 3, wherein the coating film includes a zinc sulfide layer bonded to one surface of the surface film layer.

5. The flexible sheet material according to claim 1, 2, or 3, wherein the coating film includes a metal layer bonded to one surface of the surface film layer, and the metal layer is not formed over the entire surface film layer.

6. The flexible sheet material according to claim 1, 2, or 3, wherein the surface film layer of the coating film is to which pearl powder, glitter powder, phosphorescent powder, photochromic powder, thermochromic powder, fragrance, or UV inhibitor is added.

7. The flexible sheet material according to claim 1, 2, or 3, wherein a minute optical element, such as a minute convex lens, a minute concave lens, or a minute convex or concave water droplet-shaped member, is provided on one surface of the surface film layer.

8. The flexible sheet material according to claim 1, 2, or 3, wherein the surface film layer is a transparent or translucent reflective layer comprising a reflective member.

9. The flexible sheet material according to claim 8, wherein the surface film layer is a reflective layer having zinc sulfide.

10. The flexible sheet material according to claim 1, 2, or 3, wherein the sheet-like material is a cloth, leather, plastic film, paper, wooden sheet, or metal sheet.

11. The flexible sheet material according to claim 1, 2, or 3, wherein the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer are hot-melt adhesive layers that exhibit adhesive properties upon heating.

Images