Three-dimensional printed matter, and method for manufacturing three-dimensional printed matter

Abstract

The present invention comprises: a laminated three-dimensional layer 200 which is disposed on one main surface of a substrate 100 and is formed by laminating a plurality of three-dimensional element layers 21-n which include at least one of color three-dimensional element layers 21-nc having one color or multiple colors, and at least one of white three-dimensional element layers 21-nw having a light-reflecting white ink, the laminated three-dimensional layer 200 varying depending on the position on the main surface 10a; a white cover layer 2zw which covers the upper surface of the laminated three-dimensional layer 200; and a colored layer 300 which is disposed on the white cover layer 2zw and has one color or multiple colors. In the laminated three-dimensional layer 200, the thickness of a boundary region 12, between a pattern outline 11a of a pattern region 11 represented by the colored layer 300 in a plan view and an enlarged outline 12a obtained by moving the pattern outline 11a to the outside of the pattern by a predetermined distance, increases continuously from the enlarged outline 12a toward the pattern outline 11a.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a three-dimensional printed matter and a method for manufacturing the three-dimensional printed matter, and particularly relates to a technique for improving image quality in three-dimensional printing.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, the use of three-dimensional printed matter that enables a printed image to be perceived three-dimensionally has been proposed for applications such as the display of fine arts such as paintings and handicrafts, and interior decoration and architectural design, and various printing methods have been proposed.

[0003] For example, in Patent Document 1, when forming a raised shape (laminated ink region) on a medium by stacking multiple layers of ink, a light reflection region formed using a light-reflective white ink is sandwiched, and a colored region formed using a colored ink is overlapped, and a method of forming a laminated ink region by laminating a plurality of colored regions and a plurality of light reflection regions has been proposed. Patent Document 1 describes that the time required for the printing operation to form a raised shape on the medium can be shortened.

[0004] Also, in Patent Document 2, when forming a laminated ink region on a medium by stacking multiple layers of ink, a technique has been proposed in which the range for forming the light reflection region is made larger than the region where the raised region is formed. Patent Document 2 describes that even when a deviation (registration deviation) in the position of the head occurs when forming the light reflection region and the raised region, it is possible to prevent the outer edge of the raised region from being uncovered by the light reflection region and to appropriately conceal the color of the raised region, thereby preventing the color of the raised region from being conspicuous and the quality of the print from deteriorating when the image is viewed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0006] However, in the printing methods described in Patent Documents 1 and 2, when forming a raised shape (laminated ink region) on a medium by stacking multiple ink layers, the height of the raised shape is changed by varying the number of ink layers to be stacked. Therefore, minute steps are generated at the boundaries of the raised portions with different heights due to the difference in the number of layers, and the edges of the raised portions become streak-like color unevenness and are visually recognized by viewers. In particular, there has been a problem that the image quality deteriorates in the vicinity of the contour of the pattern region showing the image of the subject.

[0007] The present disclosure has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide a three-dimensional printed matter capable of suppressing the occurrence of color unevenness caused by differences in the height of raised shapes and enabling a fine three-dimensional expression in the vicinity of the contour of a pattern region showing an image of a subject, and a method for manufacturing the same.

MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEMS

[0008] The three-dimensional printed matter according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a substrate, a color three-dimensional element layer disposed above one main surface of the substrate and arranged with one color or a plurality of colors, and a plurality of three-dimensional element layers each including at least one white three-dimensional element layer arranged with a light-reflective white ink are stacked. A laminated three-dimensional layer having different thicknesses according to the position on the main surface, a white coating layer covering the upper surface of the laminated three-dimensional layer, and a coloring layer arranged with one color or a plurality of colors on the upper surface of the white coating layer and representing a pattern are provided. In the laminated three-dimensional layer, a portion corresponding to a pattern region corresponding to the pattern represented by the coloring layer bulges upward from the main surface of the substrate, and the thickness of a boundary region located between the pattern contour of the pattern region in plan view and an enlarged contour obtained by moving the pattern contour outward from the pattern region by a predetermined distance increases continuously from the enlarged contour toward the Pattern contour.

[0009] In addition, a method for manufacturing a three-dimensional printed matter according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes a step of generating three-dimensional printing image data and coloring printing image data based on color image data, preparing a substrate, and one side of the substrate main Above the surface, a plurality of three-dimensional element layers including at least one color three-dimensional element layer arranged in one or more colors and at least one white three-dimensional element layer arranged with a light-reflective white ink are laminated, and a laminated three-dimensional layer having a layer thickness that varies depending on the position on the main surface according to the height gradation of the three-dimensional printing image data is formed, a step of forming a white coating layer so as to cover the upper surface of the laminated three-dimensional layer, and after the step of forming the white coating layer, a step of forming a colored layer arranged in one or more colors on the upper surface of the formed white coating layer based on the coloring printing image data. In the step of forming the laminated three-dimensional layer, a portion corresponding to a pattern region corresponding to the pattern represented by the colored layer bulges upward from the main surface of the substrate, and the thickness of a boundary region located between an enlarged contour obtained by moving the pattern contour corresponding to the pattern represented by the colored layer outward by a predetermined distance in a plan view and the pattern contour continuously increases from the enlarged contour toward the pattern contour. The laminated three-dimensional layer is formed in such a manner that

Advantages of the Invention

[0010] According to a three-dimensional printed matter and a method for manufacturing the same according to an aspect of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a three-dimensional printed matter capable of fine three-dimensional expression by suppressing the occurrence of color unevenness due to differences in the height of the raised shape in the vicinity of the contour of a pattern region showing an image of a subject, and a method for manufacturing the same.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011]

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] ≪Outline of the Mode for Carrying Out the Present Invention≫ The three-dimensional printed matter according to the embodiment of the present disclosure includes a substrate, a color three-dimensional element layer disposed above one main surface of the substrate and arranged in one color or a plurality of colors, and at least one white three-dimensional element layer arranged with a light-reflective white ink. A plurality of three-dimensional element layers are laminated, and a laminated three-dimensional layer having different thicknesses according to the position on the main surface, a white coating layer covering the upper surface of the laminated three-dimensional layer, and one or a plurality of colors are arranged on the upper surface of the white coating layer. And a colored layer representing a pattern, and a portion corresponding to a pattern region corresponding to the pattern represented by the colored layer bulges upward from the main surface of the substrate, and in a plan view, the pattern contour of the pattern region and the pattern contour are moved outward of the pattern region by a predetermined distance. The thickness of the boundary region located between the enlarged contours increases continuously from the enlarged contour toward the Pattern contour, which is a feature.

[0013] With such a configuration, in the vicinity of the contour of the pattern region showing the image of the subject, generation of color unevenness due to differences in the height of the raised shape is suppressed, and a fine three-dimensional expression becomes possible.

[0014] Also, in another aspect, in the aspect described above, the thicknesses of the color three-dimensional element layer and the white three-dimensional element layer may be different according to the position on the main surface.

[0015] According to such a configuration, in the pattern region showing the image of the subject, a more fine three-dimensional expression becomes possible.

[0016] In another aspect, in any of the aspects described above, a configuration may be adopted in which a clear layer having a function of adjusting the amount of light transmitted through the upper surface of the colored layer and covering the colored layer is provided.

[0017] According to such a configuration, it is possible to more effectively make the viewer perceive a three-dimensional effect according to the pattern.

[0018] Also, a method for manufacturing a three-dimensional printed matter according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a step of generating three-dimensional printing image data and color printing image data based on color image data, preparing a substrate, and one side of the substrate main above the surface, a plurality of three-dimensional element layers are laminated, each of which includes at least one color three-dimensional element layer arranged in one or more colors and at least one white three-dimensional element layer arranged with a light-reflective white ink, and a laminated three-dimensional layer is formed in which the layer thickness varies depending on the position on the main surface according to the height gradation of the three-dimensional printing image data; a step of forming a white coating layer so as to cover the upper surface of the laminated three-dimensional layer; and after the step of forming the white coating layer, forming a colored layer arranged in one or more colors on the upper surface of the formed white coating layer based on the color printing image data. In the step of forming the laminated three-dimensional layer, a portion corresponding to a pattern region corresponding to the pattern represented by the colored layer bulges upward from the main surface of the substrate, and the thickness of a boundary region located between an enlarged contour obtained by moving the pattern contour of the pattern region corresponding to the pattern represented by the colored layer outward by a predetermined distance in a plan view and the pattern contour continuously increases from the enlarged contour toward the pattern contour. The laminated three-dimensional layer is formed in this manner.

[0019] According to such a configuration, it is possible to manufacture a three-dimensional printed matter that suppresses the occurrence of color unevenness caused by differences in the height of the raised shape near the contour of the pattern region showing the image of the subject and enables a fine three-dimensional expression. As a result, the three-dimensional printed matter 10 can provide a three-dimensional printed matter that enables a fine three-dimensional expression and allows the viewer to perceive a greater three-dimensional effect.

[0020] In another aspect, in any of the aspects described above, in accordance with the height gradation of the stereoscopic printing image data, a sub-step of forming the color three-dimensional element layer and the white three-dimensional element layer with selectively different thicknesses according to the position on the main surface may be performed a plurality of times.

[0021] According to such a configuration, it becomes possible to manufacture a stereoscopic printed matter capable of a more detailed three-dimensional expression in a pattern region showing an image of a subject.

[0022] In another aspect, in any of the aspects described above, the step of generating the stereoscopic printing image data includes a step of converting the color image data into monochrome image data, and based on the monochrome image data, the color image data shown said a step of extracting a pattern contour of a pattern region, a step of setting an enlarged contour obtained by moving the pattern contour outward by a predetermined distance in a plan view, and a thickness of a boundary region located between the enlarged contour and the pattern contour in a plan view continuously increases from the enlarged contour toward the pattern contour. The step of generating the stereoscopic printing image data may be included.

[0023] According to such a configuration, it is possible to specifically realize a method for manufacturing a stereoscopic printed matter capable of a fine three-dimensional expression by suppressing the occurrence of color unevenness due to differences in the height of the raised shape near the contour of the pattern region showing an image of a subject.

[0024] In another aspect, in any of the aspects described above, the step of generating the stereoscopic printing image data may include a step of calculating the height gradation of the stereoscopic printing image data based on the gradation of the color image data or the monochrome image data in the pattern region.

[0025] In another aspect, in any of the aspects described above, the step of calculating the height gradation of the stereolithography image data includes a step of generating a plurality of different separated plate data by converting the color image data or the monochrome image data based on a plurality of different tone curves having at least different intermediate tone density outputs, and a step of synthesizing the generated plurality of separated plate data by selecting, for each position on the main surface, the data indicating the maximum height gradation among the plurality of separated plate data. Such a configuration may be adopted.

[0026] According to such a configuration, a method for manufacturing a stereolithographic object capable of manufacturing a stereolithographic object in which a more detailed three-dimensional expression is possible in a pattern area showing an image of a subject can be specifically realized.

[0027] In another aspect, in any of the aspects described above, further, after the step of forming the colored layer, a configuration may be adopted that includes a step of forming a clear layer having a function of adjusting the amount of light transmitted through the upper surface of the colored layer.

[0028] According to such a configuration, it becomes possible to manufacture a stereolithographic object that can more effectively make a viewer perceive a three-dimensional effect according to the pattern.

[0029] ≪Embodiment≫ The configuration of the stereolithographic object 10 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Here, in this specification, in each figure, the X direction, Y direction, and Z direction may be the width direction, depth direction, and height direction, respectively, and the positive direction of the height direction may be the "up" direction and the negative direction may be the "down" direction. Also, the scale of the members in each drawing is not necessarily the same as the actual one. Further, in this specification, the symbol "~" used when indicating a numerical range includes the numerical values at both ends. Also, the materials, numerical values, etc. described in this embodiment are merely examples of preferable ones and are not limited thereto. Further, appropriate changes can be made without departing from the scope of the technical idea of the present disclosure. Also, combinations of parts of the configurations with other embodiments are possible as long as no contradiction occurs. <Regarding the overall configuration of the stereolithographic object 10> The schematic configuration of the three-dimensional printed matter 10 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5. FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view showing the appearance of the three-dimensional printed matter 10 according to the embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view of the display surface 10a of the three-dimensional printed matter 10. FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the cross-sectional configuration of the three-dimensional printed matter 10. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the configuration of each layer in the cross-sectional configuration shown in FIG. 3. FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of the aspect of the three-dimensional printed matter 10 in the pattern area 11 realized by the configuration of each layer shown in FIG. 4.

[0030] As shown in FIG. 1, the three-dimensional printed matter 10 has a pseudo-embossing process applied to its display surface (front surface) 10a, and the back surface 10b facing away from the display surface 10a is flat. The embossing process consists of an ink embossing process in which three-dimensional printing is performed on the main surface 100a of the substrate 100.

[0031] Next, the configuration of the three-dimensional printed matter 10 when viewed in plan will be described.

[0032] As shown in FIG. 2, the display surface 10a of the three-dimensional printed matter 10 consists of a pattern area 11 representing a subject, a background area 13 surrounding the pattern area 11, and a boundary area 12 between the pattern area 11 and the background area 13. The boundary area 12 is an area located between the pattern outline 11a of the pattern area 11 and an enlarged outline 12a obtained by moving (offsetting) the pattern outline 11a outward from the pattern area 11 by a distance w0 in a plan view. Here, the pattern outline 11a and the enlarged outline 12a are not limited to a single continuous annular outline, but may be a plurality of outlines including broken parts.

[0033] The pattern area 11 of the display surface 10a bulges upward from the surface of the main surface 100a of the substrate 100 by ink embossing, and has a different height according to the position on the main surface, forming a relatively high raised portion 201 and a relatively low valley portion 202.

[0034] The boundary area 12 of the display surface 10a has a continuously increasing thickness from the enlarged outline 12a toward the pattern outline 11a by ink embossing.

[0035] The background area 13 is formed on a background based on print image data in which the value of the height gradation is zero or a low gradation. The print image data will be described later.

[0036] The distance w0, which is the area width of the boundary area 12, may be, for example, 1.5 mm or more and 8.0 mm or less, more preferably 2.5 mm or more and 6.0 mm or less when the length wx or wy in the X direction or Y direction of the pattern area 11 is 2000 mm or less. Further, within the above range, the distance w0 may be changed so that the distance w0 increases when the length wx or wy in the X direction or Y direction of the pattern area 11 is large.

[0037] <Cross-sectional configuration> Next, the cross-sectional configuration of the three-dimensional printed matter 10 will be described.

[0038] The three-dimensional printed matter 10 includes a substrate 100 serving as a base, a laminated three-dimensional layer 200, a white coating layer 2zw, and a colored layer 300. Further, a laminated clear layer 400 may be provided.

[0039] (Substrate 100) The substrate 100 is composed of a base material 101. Further, an ink receiving layer may be formed on the upper surface of the base material 101.

[0040] (Laminated three-dimensional layer 200) The three-dimensional printed matter 10 may have color three-dimensional element layers 21c to 2nc (n is a natural number representing the number of layers, hereinafter may be referred to as "2ic" (i is a natural number representing an index)) arranged in one or more colors in a direction along the main surface 100a on the main surface 100a of the substrate 100. ) and white three-dimensional element layers 21w to 2nw (n is a natural number, hereinafter may be referred to as "2iw" in some cases), which are made of a material having a function of adjusting the amount of light transmitted, are stacked in at least one layer each. A plurality of three-dimensional element layers 21 to 2n (n is a natural number, hereinafter may be referred to as "2i" in some cases) are stacked to form a laminated three-dimensional layer 200 having different thicknesses according to the position on the main surface.

[0041] In this example, the number of layers n of the three-dimensional element layers 21 to 2n may be, for example, 10 or more and 30 or less. Also, the number of layers n of each of the color three-dimensional element layers 21c to 2nc and the white three-dimensional element layers 21w to 2nw may be, for example, 10 or more and 30 or less.

[0042] The color three-dimensional element layer 2ic and the white three-dimensional element layer 2iw are layers formed to perform an ink embossing process for three-dimensionalization. Specifically, the color three-dimensional element layer 2ic and the white three-dimensional element layer 2iw are image-formed based on three-dimensional printing image data formed from color image data, which is the original image for printing a pattern, and as shown in FIG. 5, are configured such that the thickness of each layer varies according to the position on the main surface 100a corresponding to the pixel Px of the three-dimensional printing image data.

[0043] As a result, the laminated three-dimensional layer 200 formed by laminating a plurality of three-dimensional element layers 21 to 2n including the color three-dimensional element layers 21c to 2nc and the white three-dimensional element layers 21w to 2nw is formed such that the thickness of the entire layer varies according to the position on the main surface. As a result, the laminated three-dimensional layer 200 forms a mode in which the height varies according to the position on the main surface corresponding to the pixel Px of the three-dimensional printing image data, and functions as a three-dimensionalized layer including a raised portion 201 with a relatively high height and a valley portion 202 with a relatively low height.

[0044] The color three-dimensional element layer 2ic and the white three-dimensional element layer 2iw may be image-formed based on the same three-dimensional printing image data. Alternatively, the three-dimensional printing image data used may be made different between the color three-dimensional element layer 2ic and the white three-dimensional element layer 2iw. Also, the three-dimensional printing image data used may be made different for each layer constituting the color three-dimensional element layers 21c to 2nc and the white three-dimensional element layers 21w to 2nw.

[0045] (White coating layer 2zw) Above the laminated three-dimensional layer 200, there is provided a white coating layer 2zw that covers the laminated three-dimensional layer 200 and has a function of adjusting the amount of light transmitted therethrough. The white coating layer 2zw is formed so as to cover the unevenness on the surface of the laminated three-dimensional layer 200. The white coating layer 2zw may be formed entirely on the upper surface of the laminated three-dimensional layer 200 with a density of 100%. Further, the white coating layer 2zw may be composed of the same material as the white three-dimensional element layers 21w to 2nw.

[0046] (Coloring layer 300) Above the white coating layer 2zw, there is provided a coloring layer 300 formed in one color or a plurality of colors in a direction along the main surface 100a, which represents the pattern of the three-dimensional printed matter 10. The coloring layer 300 is composed of layers 301, 302, and 303 that are selectively arranged for each pixel according to the image data. Each of the layers 301, 302, and 303 is formed into an image with the layer thickness varying for each pixel according to the gradation of the coloring printing image data based on the color image data.

[0047] (Laminated clear layer 400) Above the coloring layer 300, there are laminated one or more clear element layers made of a resin material and having translucent ink dispersed and arranged so as to form fine unevenness on a part of the main surface 100a, which enhance the three-dimensional visual effect of the three-dimensional printed matter 10. In this case, the clear element layer is formed into an image by the three-dimensional printing image data in which an irregular data pattern based on a random number or the like is further superimposed on the three-dimensional printing image data generated based on the color image data.

[0048] Alternatively, the clear element layer may be configured such that the translucent ink made of a resin material is arranged on the entire main surface 100a. In this case, the clear element layer is formed into an image by the three-dimensional printing image data generated based on the color image data.

[0049] In this example, as shown in FIGS. 3, 4, and 5, it includes two-layer clear element layers 401 and 402, and the two-layer clear element layers 401 and 402 constitute the laminated clear layer 400.

[0050] By providing the laminated clear layer 400, it is possible to more effectively make the viewer perceive the three-dimensional effect according to the pattern.

[0051] <Each layer's material quality > The materials of each layer constituting the three-dimensional printed matter 10 to the quality will be described.

[0052] (Substrate 100) The base material 101, which is a constituent member of the substrate 100, is a support member for the laminated three-dimensional layer 200, the coloring layer 300, and the light control layer 400 and is flat. As the material of the base material, for example, it can be formed of any one of non-alkali glass, soda glass, polycarbonate resin, polyester resin, polyimide material, alumina, etc. By using a material having translucency, it becomes possible to use it as a transmissive type.

[0053] Also, as the plastic material having flexibility, either a thermoplastic resin or a thermosetting resin may be used. Examples of the resin material include polyethylene terephthalate, polyimide, polyester, polyamide, polycarbonate, polystyrene, polypropylene, polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, acrylic resin, polymethyl methacrylate, polyacetal, etc. Also, a multilayer structure combining one or two or more of these materials may be used.

[0054] (Color three-dimensional element layers 21c to 2nc, coloring layer 300) The color three-dimensional element layers 21c to 2nc and the coloring layer 300 (for example, 301, 302, 303) are formed by full-color printing of four colors of ink: C (blue; cyan), M (red; magenta), Y (yellow; yellow), and K (black: key plate). As the ink for forming the layer, a UV-curable type is used and is applied using an inkjet device.

[0056] Also, the coloring layer 300 selectively exists based on the image data exist

[0057] (White three-dimensional element layers 21w to 2nw, white coating layer 2zw) The white three-dimensional element layers 21w to 2nw and the white coating layer 2zw are formed by the particles of the white pigment being dispersed in a reticular pattern on the surface of the underlying layer. That is, in the white three-dimensional element layers 21w to 2nw and the white coating layer 2zw, the particles of the white pigment do not aggregate and exist in a dispersed state, containing the particles of the white pigment and the resin component, and the layer is formed in a state where the particles of the white pigment are dispersed and joined in a reticular pattern on the surface of the laminated three-dimensional layer 200 by the resin component. As the resin component, for example, an epoxy resin material, a urethane resin material, a polyester resin material, etc. can be used.

[0059] na Also, the layer thickness of the white coating layer 2zw can be appropriately determined based on the relationship with the amount of transmitted light.

[0060] (Laminated clear layer 400) The clear element layers 401 and 402 that make up the laminated clear layer 400 are composed of a light-transmissive resin material. As the resin component, for example, an epoxy resin material, a urethane resin material, a polyester resin material, etc. can be used. The ink for forming the clear element layers 401 and 402 is of the UV-curable type and is applied using an inkjet device.

[0061] na Also, when the clear element layers 401 to 402 are selectively arranged, there may be a portion where at least one of the clear element layers 401 and 402 does not exist.

[0062] (Manufacturing method of the three-dimensional printed matter 10) The manufacturing method of the three-dimensional printed matter 10 will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 6 is a process diagram showing an outline of the manufacturing method of the three-dimensional printed matter 10.

[0063] (Printing image data generation process) In the manufacturing process of the three-dimensional printed matter 10, first, print image data generation (step S1) is performed.

[0064] FIG. 7 is a process diagram showing an overview of the print image data generation process. In the print image data generation process, first, color image data serving as the original image is acquired (step S11). For the color image data, R, G, and B data corresponding to the number of pixels of the display surface 100a of the three-dimensional printed matter 10 may be used.

[0065] [Three-dimensional printing image data generation process] Next, based on the color image data acquired in step S11, three-dimensional printing image data is generated (step S12). FIG. 8 is a process diagram showing an overview of the three-dimensional printing image data generation process in step S12 of FIG. 7.

[0066] In the three-dimensional printing image data generation process, as shown in FIG. 8, first, color image data is acquired (step S121), and a process of converting it into a monochrome image (grayscale) is performed (step S122). Next, based on the monochrome image data, the pattern contour 11a of the pattern area 11 shown in the color image is extracted (step S123). By extracting the pattern contour 11a of the pattern area 11 shown in the color image using the monochrome image data, the pattern area 11 shown in the color image can be appropriately extracted based on the RGB density of the color image without depending on the color tone shown in the color image.

[0067] Next, based on the gradation of the color image data or the monochrome image data, the height gradation of the three-dimensional printing image data within the pattern contour 11a is calculated, and the three-dimensional printing image data within the pattern contour 11a is generated (step S124).

[0068] FIG. 9 is a process diagram showing an overview of the three-dimensional printing image data generation process within the pattern contour 11a in step S124 of FIG. 8.

[0069] In the process of generating the stereoscopic printing image data within the pattern outline 11a, first, based on the gradation size representing the fineness of the image of the color image data, the type of image to be used in the process is selected. That is, in step S1241, based on the gradation size of the target color image data, either color image data, monochrome positive image data, or monochrome negative image data is selected. For example, color image data, monochrome positive image data, and monochrome negative images may be selected in descending order of gradation size.

[0070] Next, tone curve processing for the m-th plate (m is a natural number representing an index) is performed to generate the components of the stereoscopic printing image data corresponding to the m-th plate (step S1242).

[0071] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a plurality of tone curves used in step S1242 of FIG. 9. In this example, as shown in FIG. 10, the gradation input of the monochrome image data is converted based on a plurality of tone curves selected from at least 5 different tone curves 210, 211, 212, 213, 214 with different density outputs OD in the middle tone, thereby calculating the output values of the height gradation and calculating a plurality of different separated plate data. In this example, an example is shown in which the separated plate data of a plurality of different height gradations are calculated from the gradation input of the monochrome image data based on the tone curves 211, 212, 213, synthesized, and the output value of the stereoscopic printing image data is calculated.

[0072] FIG. 11(a) shows the relationship between the position on the main surface 100a and the density OD indicated by the input gradation of the monochrome image data, and (b) shows the relationship between the position X on the main surface 100a obtained by the stereoscopic printing image data generation process (S1242 to S1245) and the separated plate data h of the height gradation corresponding to the tone curves 211, 212, 213 generated respectively, and the height gradation data h synthesized therefrom.

[0073] In the step of generating image data for three-dimensional printing, when there is a tone input corresponding to positions X1 to X7 on the main surface 100a of the color image data or monochrome image data shown in Fig. 11(a), by means of tone curves 211, 212, and 213, within the pattern area 11, sectional data 221, 222, 223 of height tones corresponding to positions X1 to X7 on the main surface 100a as shown in Fig. 11(b) are respectively calculated. In this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 11(b), in the sectional data 221, 222, 223 of height tones, the maximum values h1, h2, h3 of the respective height tones are in descending order, and the minimum value is h0 which is smaller than h1.

[0074] Next, it is determined whether m is the maximum value (step S1243). If it is not the maximum value, m is incremented (step S1244), and the process returns to step S1242. If it is the maximum value, the components of the sectional data h of the height tones corresponding to the first to m-th plates are synthesized to generate and output the height tone data h of the image data for three-dimensional printing (step S1245).

[0075] In the synthesis of the components of the image data for three-dimensional printing corresponding to the first to m-th plates, the generated sectional data h of a plurality of height tones are synthesized by selecting the data showing the maximum height tone among the plurality of sectional data according to the positions on the main surface 100a in the pattern area 11. In the example shown in Fig. 11(b), among the sectional data 221, 222, 223 of the height tones calculated based on the tone curves 211, 212, and 213, the sectional data h of the maximum height tone is selected for each position on the main surface 100a in the pattern area 11, and the sectional data 221, 222, 223 of the height tones are synthesized to generate the height tone data h (solid line in Fig. 11(b)).

[0076] It goes without saying that the method of synthesizing the components of the image data for three-dimensional printing is not limited to the above.

[0077] Next, returning to FIG. 8, in step S125, a process of setting an enlarged contour 12a is performed, in which the pattern contour 11a is moved (offset) by a predetermined distance w0 (see FIG. 2) outward from the pattern area 11 in a plan view, and a flattening process of the background area 13 located outside the enlarged contour 12a is performed (step S126). In the flattening process, print image data with a tone value of zero or a low tone is generated.

[0078] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the position X on the main surface and the generated height tone data h obtained by the processes of steps S121 to S128 in the three-dimensional printing image data generation process.

[0079] In step S127, a gradation process of the boundary area 12 located between the enlarged contour 12a and the pattern contour 11a is performed, and three-dimensional printing image data 220 for the boundary area 12 is generated. In the gradation process, the height tone value of the three-dimensional printing image data in the boundary area 12 continuously increases from the enlarged contour 12a toward the pattern contour 11a, and three-dimensional printing image data 220 is generated such that the value becomes the height tone data value h0 equivalent to the three-dimensional printing image data of the pattern area 11 near the pattern contour 11a. At this time, the value h0 of the height tone data can be selected as a predetermined value smaller than h1.

[0080] Next, the three-dimensional printing image data of the pattern area 11, the boundary area 12, and the background area 13 are combined (step S128), a series of three-dimensional printing image data for the pattern area 11, the boundary area 12, and the background area 13 is generated, and the generated three-dimensional printing image data is output (step S129).

[0081] FIG. 13 shows the density of the input tone, the color element layer, the white element layer, and the clear element layerIt is a diagram showing the measurement results of thickness. The results of measuring the thickness of each element layer constituting the three-dimensional printed matter 10 when the density of the input gradation is varied are shown. As shown in FIG. 13, it can be seen that the thicknesses of the color three-dimensional element layers 21c to 2nc, the white three-dimensional element layers 21w to 2nw, and the clear element layers 401 and 402 increase as the density of the input gradation increases.

[0082] [Process for generating image data for color printing] Next, based on the acquired color image data, image data for color printing is generated (step S13). The RGB data of the image data is color-converted into CMYK data to generate color layer printing data, which is stored in a storage device such as a memory.

[0083] (Three-dimensional printing process) Next, return to step S2 in FIG. 6 and perform the three-dimensional printing process. FIG. 14 is a process diagram showing an overview of the three-dimensional printing process in step S2 of FIG. 6. FIGS. 15(a) to (d) are schematic diagrams showing an overview of the manufacturing method in the three-dimensional printing process.

[0084] In the three-dimensional printing process, first, a substrate 100 is prepared (step S21, FIG. 15(a)).

[0085] Next, the height gradation data among the image data is sequentially read from the memory, and inks made of CMYK resin materials for forming the color three-dimensional element layer 21c are respectively applied to the main surface 100a of the substrate 100, and then dried by ultraviolet irradiation to form the color three-dimensional element layer 21c (steps S22, S23).

[0086] Similarly, the same height gradation data is sequentially read from the memory, and inks made of resin materials containing white pigment particles (for example, titanium oxide) for forming the white three-dimensional element layer 21w are respectively applied to the upper surface of the color three-dimensional element layer 21c, and then dried by ultraviolet irradiation to laminate and form the white three-dimensional element layer 21w on the upper surface of the color three-dimensional element layer 21c to form the three-dimensional element layer 21 (steps S24, S25, FIG. 15(b)).

[0087] The color three-dimensional element layer 21c and the white three-dimensional element layer 21w are formed based on the three-dimensional printing image data formed from the color image data which is the original image for printing the pattern, and as shown in Fig. 15(b), the thicknesses of the respective layers are configured to be different according to the positions on the main surface 100a corresponding to the pixels Px of the three-dimensional printing image data. Thus, based on the height gradation data, the three-dimensional element layer 21 in which the formation positions and layer thicknesses of the included color three-dimensional element layer 21c and white three-dimensional element layer 21w are different is formed at the position on the main surface corresponding to the pixel Px of the three-dimensional printing image data.

[0088] Next, it is determined whether n is the maximum value (step S26). If it is not the maximum value, n is incremented (step S27), and the process returns to step S22. Until n becomes the maximum value, based on the height gradation data, the three-dimensional element layers 21 to 2n each containing at least one layer of the color three-dimensional element layers 21c to 2nc and the white three-dimensional element layers 21w to 2nw with different formation positions and layer thicknesses are repeatedly formed at the positions on the main surface corresponding to the pixels Px of the three-dimensional printing image data. When n is the maximum value, the process proceeds to step S28.

[0089] At this time, the laminated three-dimensional layer 200 formed by laminating a plurality of the three-dimensional element layers 21 to 2n has a thickness H 200 formed to be different according to the position on the main surface (Fig. 15(c)).

[0090] As a result, the laminated three-dimensional layer 200 forms a three-dimensionalized layer having a different thickness according to the position on the main surface corresponding to the pixel Px of the three-dimensional printing image data based on the three-dimensional printing image data, including a raised portion 201 having a large thickness and a relatively high upper surface height and a valley portion 202 having a small thickness and a relatively low upper surface height.

[0091] As shown in FIG. 15(c), the pattern area 11 has a cross-sectional shape that bulges upward from the surface of the main surface 100a of the substrate 100 by the stacked three-dimensional layer 200 formed based on the height gradation of the three-dimensional printing image data. On the other hand, the background area 13 has a flat shape with a low height from the surface of the main surface 100a of the substrate 100 based on the printing image data with a height gradation value of zero or a low gradation. Further, in the boundary area 12, the stacked three-dimensional layer 200 has an inclined shape in which the thickness of the stacked three-dimensional layer 200 continuously increases and the height of the upper surface continuously increases from the enlarged contour 12a toward the pattern contour 11a.

[0092] In this way, each of the color three-dimensional element layers 21c to 2nc and the white three-dimensional element layers 21w to 2nw has an inclined shape in which the height changes smoothly in the boundary area 12, and the upper corner portions of each layer can be rounded. Furthermore, since the three-dimensional element layers 21 to 2n including at least one layer each of the color three-dimensional element layers 21c to 2nc and the white three-dimensional element layers 21w to 2nw are stacked in order from the lower side in the Z-axis direction, the stacked three-dimensional layer 200 has an aspect in which the height changes smoothly in the boundary area 12 as a whole.

[0093] Thereby, in the three-dimensional printed matter 10, in the boundary area 12 located near the contour of the pattern area showing the image of the subject, the occurrence of color unevenness due to the difference in the height of the raised shape is suppressed, and a fine three-dimensional expression becomes possible, and the quality of the image viewed by the viewer can be improved.

[0094] Next, in order to form the white coating layer 2zw so as to cover the upper surface of the stacked three-dimensional layer 200, an ink made of a resin material containing particles of a white pigment (for example, titanium oxide) is applied using, for example, an inkjet device, and then dried by ultraviolet irradiation to form the white coating layer 2zw (steps S28, S29, FIG. 15(d)).

[0095] At this time, the white coating layer 2zw may be formed so as to cover the entire main surface 100a of the substrate 100. By covering the entire main surface 100a of the substrate 100 with the white coating layer 2zw made of a resin material, it is possible to suppress the intrusion of moisture into the substrate 100 from above, suppress the expansion and deformation of the laminated three-dimensional layer 200, maintain the fine three-dimensional expression by the laminated three-dimensional layer 200 for a long period of time, and suppress the deterioration of the fine three-dimensional expression over time. In this example, the white coating layer 2zw located at the uppermost layer adopts a configuration that covers the entire main surface 100a of the substrate 100.

[0096] (Coloring and Printing Process) Next, return to step S3 in FIG. 5 and perform the coloring and printing process. FIG. 16 is a process diagram showing an overview of the coloring and printing process in step S3 of FIG. 6. FIGS. 17(a) to (d) are schematic diagrams showing an overview of the manufacturing method in the coloring and printing process.

[0097] In the coloring and printing process, first, a substrate on which three-dimensional printing has been performed on the main surface 100a and raised portions 201 and valley portions 202 are formed is prepared (step S31, FIG. 17(a)).

[0098] Image data for coloring and printing is sequentially read out from the memory, and ink made of a CMYK resin material is applied to form the coloring layer 300 so as to cover the upper surface of the laminated white coating layer 2zw. Then, it is dried by ultraviolet irradiation, and layers 301, 302, and 303 are selectively arranged for each pixel according to the image data for coloring and printing, and each of the layers 301, 302, and 303 is formed with different thicknesses for each pixel according to the gradation of the image data for coloring and printing to form the coloring layer 300 (steps S32, S33, FIG. 17(b)). The formation of the coloring layer 300 is performed, for example, by applying a UV (ultraviolet) curable ink containing pigments of each color using an inkjet device and performing UV irradiation for curing.

[0099] Next, ink made of a light-transmitting resin material for forming the clear element layer 401 is applied to the upper surface of the coloring layer 300, and then dried by ultraviolet irradiation to form the clear element layer 401 (steps S34, S35, FIG. 17(c)).

[0100] Further, after applying ink made of a light-transmitting resin material for forming the clear element layer 402 on the upper surface of the colored layer 300, it is dried by ultraviolet irradiation to form the clear element layer 402, thereby forming the laminated clear layer 400 (steps S36, S37, FIG. 17(d)).

[0101] The clear element layers 401 and 402 may be formed with an image by using stereolithography image data obtained by superimposing an irregular data pattern based on a random number or the like on the stereolithography image data generated based on the color image data. By configuring the laminated clear layer 400 to include the clear element layers 401 and 402 in which fine irregularities are dispersedly arranged by the stereolithography image data with an irregular data pattern superimposed thereon, it is possible to effectively make a viewer perceive a three-dimensional effect according to the pattern.

[0102] Also, at this time, any one of the clear element layers 401 and 402 may be formed so as to cover the entire main surface 100a of the substrate 100. In this case, the clear element layer may be formed based on uniform image data over the entire main surface 100a, or may be formed with an image by using stereolithography image data generated based on the color image data. When the entire main surface 100a of the substrate 100 is covered with the clear element layer made of a resin material, it is possible to suppress the intrusion of moisture into the substrate 100 from above, suppress the expansion and deformation of the laminated three-dimensional layer 200, maintain the fine three-dimensional expression by the laminated three-dimensional layer 200 for a long time, and suppress the deterioration of the fine three-dimensional expression over time.

[0103] In this example, a configuration is adopted in which the lower clear element layer 401 covers the entire main surface 100a of the substrate 100.

[0104] Through the above steps, the stereolithographic object 10 is completed.

[0105] <Summary> As described above, the three-dimensional printed matter 10 according to the embodiment is disposed above one main surface 10a of the substrate 100, and includes a plurality of stacked three-dimensional element layers 21 to n including at least one color three-dimensional element layer 21 to nc arranged in one color or a plurality of colors and at least one white three-dimensional element layer 21 to nw arranged with a light-reflective white ink. The three-dimensional printed matter 10 has different stacked three-dimensional layers 200 according to the position on the main surface 10a, a white coating layer 2zw covering the upper surface of the stacked three-dimensional layer 200, and a colored layer 300 arranged in one color or a plurality of colors on the upper surface of the white coating layer 2zw. In the stacked three-dimensional layer 200, a portion corresponding to the pattern region 11 corresponding to the pattern represented by the colored layer 300 bulges upward from the main surface 100a of the substrate, and in a plan view, the thickness of the boundary region 12 between the pattern contour 11a of the pattern region 11 represented by the colored layer 300 and the enlarged contour 12a obtained by moving the pattern contour 11a outward by a predetermined distance continuously increases from the enlarged contour 12a toward the pattern contour 11a.

[0106] With such a configuration, in the three-dimensional printed matter 10 according to the embodiment, in the vicinity of the contour of the pattern region showing the image of the subject, generation of color unevenness due to differences in the height of the raised shape is suppressed, and a fine three-dimensional expression becomes possible. As a result, in the three-dimensional printed matter 10, a fine three-dimensional expression is possible, and a three-dimensional printed matter in which a viewer can perceive a greater sense of three-dimensionality can be provided.

[0107] Therefore, when forming a raised shape on a medium by stacking a plurality of ink layers, a minute step occurs at the boundary of the raised portions having different heights due to differences in the number of stacked ink layers, which occurs in a conventional printing method. The edge of the raised portion becomes streak-like color unevenness and is visually recognized by the viewer, particularly causing a deterioration in image quality in the vicinity of the contour of the pattern region showing the image of the subject. This problem can be suppressed. At this time, the thicknesses of the color three-dimensional element layers 21 to nc and the white three-dimensional element layers 21 to nw may be different according to the position on the main surface. According to such a configuration, in the pattern region 11 showing the image of the subject, a finer three-dimensional expression becomes possible.

[0108] Further, on the upper surface of the colored layer, there may be provided a clear element layer 401, 402 including clear element layers 401, 402 which have a function of adjusting the amount of light transmitted therethrough, cover the colored layer 300, and in which fine irregularities are dispersedly arranged by three-dimensional printing image data with an irregular data pattern superimposed thereon. It is possible to more effectively make a viewer perceive a three-dimensional effect according to the pattern.

[0109] Also, above the laminated three-dimensional layer 200, there may be provided a configuration including a white coating layer 2zw that covers the laminated three-dimensional layer 200 and has a function of adjusting the amount of light transmitted therethrough. By covering the entire main surface 100a of the substrate 100 with the white coating layer 2zw made of a resin material, it is possible to suppress the intrusion of moisture from above into the laminated three-dimensional layer 200 and suppress the expansion and deformation of the laminated three-dimensional layer 200. Thereby, it is possible to maintain the fine three-dimensional expression by the laminated three-dimensional layer 200 for a long period of time and suppress the deterioration of the fine three-dimensional expression over time.

[0110] ≪Modification Example≫ Although the three-dimensional printed matter and its manufacturing method according to the embodiment have been described, the present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiments except for its essential characteristic components. For example, forms obtained by applying various modifications conceivable by those skilled in the art to the embodiments, and forms realized by arbitrarily combining the components and functions in each of the embodiments 1 without departing from the spirit of the present invention are also included in the present disclosure. Hereinafter, as an example of such a form, a modification example will be described.

[0111] (1) In the three-dimensional printed matter 10 according to the above-described embodiment, a colored layer 300 is provided above the white coating layer 2zw, and a laminated clear layer 400 composed of clear element layers 401, 402 is laminated above the colored layer 300.

[0112] However, the number of layers of the colored layer 300 and the laminated clear layer 400 is not limited to the above and may be in a different mode.

[0113] FIG. 18 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the three-dimensional printed matter 10A according to Modification 1. In the three-dimensional printed matter 10A according to Modification 1, as shown in FIG. 18, in the pattern area 11 showing the image of the subject, above the laminated clear layer 400, further, a second colored layer 310 representing the pattern of the three-dimensional printed matter 10 and a second laminated clear layer 410 composed of second clear element layers 411 and 412 are laminated. This is different from the three-dimensional printed matter 10 according to the embodiment in that it is configured in this way. At this time, the second colored layer 310 may be formed based on color image data and may have the same configuration as the colored layer 300. The second laminated clear layer 410 may have the same configuration as the laminated clear layer 400. By providing the second colored layer above the colored layer 300, it is possible to inexpensively provide a three-dimensional printed matter in which a viewer can perceive a greater sense of three-dimensionality.

[0114] (2) In the three-dimensional printed matter 10 according to the above-described embodiment, the thicknesses of the color three-dimensional element layers 21 to 2nc and the white three-dimensional element layers 21 to 2nw are configured to be different according to the position on the main surface based on the height gradation of the three-dimensional printing image data. However, the number of layers of the color three-dimensional element layers 21 to 2nc and the white three-dimensional element layers 21 to 2nw may be configured to be different according to the position on the main surface based on the height gradation of the three-dimensional printing image data.

[0115] According to such a configuration, the color three-dimensional element layers 21c to 2nc and the white three-dimensional element layers 21w to 2nw are laminated in a pyramid shape in order from the lower side in the Z-axis direction, so that the laminated three-dimensional layer 200 can form a stepped shape in which the height changes stepwise in the boundary region 12 as a whole. Therefore, in the pattern area 11 showing the image of the subject, an effective three-dimensional expression can be achieved with a simpler configuration, and when mass-producing a large number of three-dimensional printed matters that can allow a viewer to perceive a sufficient sense of three-dimensionality, printed matters can be provided at low cost.

[0116] (3) In the three-dimensional printed matter 10 according to the above-described embodiment, the laminated three-dimensional layer 200 includes, on the main surface 100a of the substrate 100, color three-dimensional element layers 21c to 2nc arranged in one or a plurality of colors in a direction along the main surface 100a, and white three-dimensional element layers 21w to 2nw made of a material having a function of adjusting the amount of light transmitted therethrough, and a plurality of three-dimensional element layers 21 to 2n each including at least one layer are laminated.

[0117] When the three-dimensional element layers 21 to 2n in the laminated three-dimensional layer 200 according to the embodiment are defined as the first three-dimensional element layers, in the three-dimensional printed matter according to the modified example, the laminated three-dimensional layer further includes a second three-dimensional element layer including one or more additional white three-dimensional element layers made of a material having a function of adjusting the amount of light transmitted therethrough, or a second three-dimensional element layer including one or more additional color three-dimensional element layers arranged in one or a plurality of colors. Also, the second three-dimensional element layer may be configured to be laminated between the plurality of laminated three-dimensional element layers 21 to 2n or on the upper surface of the three-dimensional element layers 21 to 2n.

[0118] The additional white three-dimensional element layer or the additional color three-dimensional element layer is formed into an image based on the three-dimensional printing image data, and the thickness of each layer is configured to be different according to the position on the main surface 100a corresponding to the pixel Px of the three-dimensional printing image data. At this time, the additional white three-dimensional element layer or the additional color three-dimensional element layer may be selectively arranged on the main surface 100a corresponding to the pixel Px of the three-dimensional printing image data.

[0119] Also, the additional white three-dimensional element layer or the additional color three-dimensional element layer may be formed into an image based on the same three-dimensional printing image data as the white three-dimensional element layer 2iw or the color three-dimensional element layer 2ic. Alternatively, it may be formed based on three-dimensional printing image data different from the white three-dimensional element layer 2iw or the color three-dimensional element layer 2ic.

[0120] As a result, the laminated three-dimensional layer including the second three-dimensional element layer configured to include an additional white three-dimensional element layer or an additional color three-dimensional element layer is formed such that the thickness of the entire layer varies more greatly depending on the position on the main surface. As a result, it is possible to expand the height difference between the raised portion 201 and the valley portion 202 while preventing blurring of the pattern and maintaining the clarity of the pattern.

[0121] As described above, when the three-dimensional element layers 21 to 2n including at least one layer each of the color three-dimensional element layers 21c to 2nc arranged with one color or a plurality of colors and the white three-dimensional element layers 21w to 2nw arranged with a light-reflective white ink are used as the first three-dimensional element layers 21 to 2n, in the three-dimensional printed matter according to the modified example, the laminated three-dimensional layer is formed between the layers of the plurality of laminated first three-dimensional element layers 21 to 2n or above the plurality of first three-dimensional element layers 21 to 2n, and further includes at least one additional white three-dimensional element layer arranged with a light-reflective white ink or a second three-dimensional element layer including at least one additional color three-dimensional element layer arranged with one color or a plurality of colors.

[0122] The three-dimensional printed matter according to the modified example includes a white coating layer 2zw that covers the upper surface of the laminated three-dimensional layer including the second three-dimensional element layer, and a coloring layer 300 arranged with one color or a plurality of colors on the upper surface of the white coating layer 2zw. In the laminated three-dimensional layer 200, a portion corresponding to the pattern region 11 corresponding to the pattern represented by the coloring layer 300 bulges upward from the main surface 100a of the substrate, and the thickness of the boundary region 12 between the pattern contour 11a of the pattern region 11 represented by the coloring layer 300 in plan view and the enlarged contour 12a obtained by moving the pattern contour 11a outward from the pattern by a predetermined distance continuously increases from the enlarged contour 12a toward the pattern contour 11a.

[0123] With such a configuration, according to the laminated three-dimensional layer according to the modification example, in addition to the effect of suppressing the occurrence of color unevenness due to differences in the height of the raised shape near the contour of the pattern area showing the image of the subject, the second three-dimensional element layer is formed so that the thickness of the entire layer varies more greatly according to the position on the main surface. While preventing blurring of the pattern, it functions as a three-dimensional layer that creates a more prominent three-dimensional effect, enabling a fine three-dimensional expression that allows the viewer to perceive a greater three-dimensional effect.

[0124] <<Supplementary Explanation>> All of the embodiments described above show preferred specific examples of the present invention. The numerical values, shapes, materials, components, arrangement positions and connection forms of the components, processes, order of processes, etc. shown in the embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the present invention. Also, among the components in the embodiments, those not described in the independent claims indicating the highest-level concept of the present invention are described as optional components constituting a more preferred form.

[0125] Also, the order in which the above method is executed is for illustrative purposes to specifically explain the present invention, and other orders may also be possible. Also, a part of the above method may be executed simultaneously (in parallel) with other methods.

[0126] Also, for ease of understanding of the invention, the scales of the components in each figure cited in the above embodiments may be different from the actual ones. Also, the present invention is not limited by the description of the above embodiments 1, and can be appropriately changed without departing from the gist of the present invention.

[0127] Also, at least a part of the functions of each embodiment and its modification example may be combined.

Industrial Applicability

[0128] The three-dimensional printed matter according to one aspect of the present disclosure is useful for realizing a three-dimensional printed matter capable of obtaining high image quality as part of interior decoration, advertising media, and even construction materials (such as walls and ceilings). For example, it can be widely used in paintings, decorative items for display, posters, advertisements, displays, interiors, interior decoration members, etc.

Explanation of symbols

[0129] 10, 10A Three-dimensional printed matter 10a Main surface 11 Pattern area 11a Pattern contour 12 Boundary area 12a Enlarged contour 13 Background area 100 Substrate 200 Stacked three-dimensional layer 201 Raised portion 202 Valley portion 21, 22, 23, 2i, 2n Three-dimensional element layer 21w, 22iw, 23w, 2iw, 2nw White three-dimensional element layer 21c, 22ic, 23c, 2ic, 2nc Color three-dimensional element layer 2zw White coating layer 300, 310 Coloring layer 400, 410 Stacked clear layer 401, 402, 411, 412 Clear element layer

Claims

1. A substrate, A plurality of stacked three-dimensional element layers, each containing at least one color three-dimensional element layer arranged in one or more colors and disposed above one main surface of the substrate, and at least one white three-dimensional element layer arranged with a light-reflective white ink, and a stacked three-dimensional layer having different thicknesses according to the position on the main surface, A white coating layer covering the upper surface of the stacked three-dimensional layer, On the upper surface of the white coating layer, a colored layer arranged in one or more colors and representing a pattern is provided, In the stacked three-dimensional layer, a portion corresponding to a pattern region corresponding to the pattern represented by the colored layer bulges upward from the main surface of the substrate, and in a plan view, the thickness of a boundary region located between the pattern contour of the pattern region and an enlarged contour obtained by moving the pattern contour a predetermined distance outward from the pattern region continuously increases from the enlarged contour toward the pattern contour. A three-dimensional printed matter.

2. The thicknesses of the color three-dimensional element layer and the white three-dimensional element layer are different according to the position on the main surface. The three-dimensional printed matter according to Claim 1.

3. On the upper surface of the colored layer, a clear layer having a function of adjusting the amount of light transmitted through the colored layer and covering the colored layer is provided. The three-dimensional printed matter according to Claim 1 or 2.

4. A step of generating three-dimensional printing image data and colored printing image data based on color image data, Preparing a substrate, and forming, above one main surface of the substrate, a stacked three-dimensional layer in which a plurality of three-dimensional element layers, each containing at least one color three-dimensional element layer arranged in one or more colors and at least one white three-dimensional element layer arranged with a light-reflective white ink, are stacked, and the layer thickness varies according to the position on the main surface according to the height gradation of the three-dimensional printing image data, A step of forming a white coating layer so as to cover the upper surface of the stacked three-dimensional layer, After the step of forming the white coating layer, a step of forming a colored layer arranged in one or more colors on the upper surface of the formed white coating layer based on the colored printing image data, and In the step of forming the stacked three-dimensional layer, A portion corresponding to a pattern region corresponding to the pattern represented by the colored layer bulges upward from the main surface of the substrate, and the stacked three-dimensional layer is formed such that the thickness of a boundary region located between an enlarged contour obtained by moving the pattern contour of the pattern region corresponding to the pattern represented by the colored layer outward by a predetermined distance and the pattern contour continuously increases from the enlarged contour toward the pattern contour. Method for manufacturing a three-dimensional printed matter.

5. A sub-step of forming the color three-dimensional element layer and the white three-dimensional element layer by selectively varying the thickness according to the position on the main surface corresponding to the height gradation of the three-dimensional printing image data is performed a plurality of times. The method for manufacturing a three-dimensional printed matter according to claim 4.

6. The step of generating the three-dimensional printing image data includes: a step of converting the color image data into monochrome image data; a step of extracting the pattern contour of the pattern region indicated by the color image data based on the monochrome image data; a step of setting an enlarged contour obtained by moving the pattern contour outward from the pattern region by a predetermined distance in a plan view; a step of generating the three-dimensional printing image data in which the thickness of the boundary region located between the enlarged contour and the pattern contour in a plan view continuously increases from the enlarged contour toward the pattern contour. The method for manufacturing a three-dimensional printed matter according to claim 4 or 5.

7. The step of generating the three-dimensional printing image data includes: a step of calculating the height gradation of the three-dimensional printing image data based on the gradation of the color image data or the monochrome image data in the pattern region. The method for manufacturing a three-dimensional printed matter according to claim 6.

8. The step of calculating the height gradation of the three-dimensional printing image data includes: a step of generating a plurality of different separated plate data by converting the color image data or the monochrome image data based on a plurality of different tone curves having at least different intermediate tone density outputs; a step of synthesizing the generated plurality of separated plate data by selecting, for each position on the main surface, the data showing the maximum height gradation among the plurality of separated plate data. The method for manufacturing a three-dimensional printed matter according to claim 7.

9. Furthermore, after the step of forming the coloring layer, there is a step of forming a clear layer having a function of adjusting the amount of light transmitted through the upper surface of the coloring layer. The method for manufacturing a three-dimensional printed matter according to any one of claims 4 to 8.

Images