Transfer stickers that can be stored for a long period of time and their manufacturing method

Abstract

To provide a transfer sticker which can beautifully transfer only an image onto a transfer object and can be preserved for a long period (one year or more). [Solution] The method for manufacturing a transfer sticker of the present invention is characterized by comprising the following steps: a first step of printing ultraviolet-curable ink containing titanium oxide in a desired shape on a transfer base sheet and irradiating it with ultraviolet light in a desired amount for a desired time; a second step of printing ultraviolet-curable ink of a desired color in a desired shape on the ultraviolet-curable ink and irradiating it with ultraviolet light in a desired amount for a desired time; a third step of printing ultraviolet-curable varnish in a desired shape on the ultraviolet-curable ink of a desired color and in the desired shape and irradiating it with ultraviolet light in a desired amount for a desired time; a fourth step of overlaying a transfer film on the transfer base sheet on which the image and varnish have been printed and heating the resulting film; and a fifth step of integrating the destroyed first resin layer portion of the transfer base sheet with the substrate of the transfer film by cooling.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a transfer sticker. [Background technology]

[0002] Traditionally, adhesive products (image stickers) have been made using the following process.

[0003] That is, as shown in Fig. 1(a), an adhesive layer (glue layer) is provided on the upper surface of a sheet-shaped release material, and a surface substrate (e.g., paper, film, etc.) is provided on the upper surface of the adhesive layer, and then, as shown in Fig. 1(b), printing is performed on the upper surface of the provided surface substrate.

[0004] Then, the printed surface substrate is covered with an adhesive film such as a laminate film.

[0005] Next, a blade is inserted from the top of the coated laminate film to the bottom release material, and the printed portion (image portion) is cut out.

[0006] The above steps form the basic structure of the adhesive product.

[0007] When printing is done on the surface substrate, the weight increases by the weight of the surface substrate. Furthermore, the blade is inserted all the way down to the release material at the bottom to cut out the printed area, but a 1mm border (edge) remains around the printed area to provide a margin for the blade. Given this background, it seems that the idea of ​​printing directly onto the adhesive layer (glue layer) instead of printing on the surface substrate, and then extracting the printed area (image area) using a different method to turn it into a sticker, rather than cutting out just the printed area with a blade, has been readily conceived.

[0008] However, to print directly onto an adhesive layer (glue layer), the adhesive layer (glue layer) must be solidified. If the adhesive layer (glue layer) remains soft, the ink will not adhere. However, if the adhesive (glue) itself is solidified, the adhesive property of the adhesive (glue) itself will be lost and it will no longer be an adhesive product. Therefore, it is possible to create an image by spraying UV ink, which is liquid but easily solidifies when exposed to ultraviolet light, onto an adhesive, unsolidified adhesive layer (glue layer) using a non-contact printer (inkjet printer) (Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0009] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6260878 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0010] However, in reality, the liquid UV ink corrodes the adhesive layer. To solidify the UV ink, it must be irradiated with ultraviolet (UV) light using an inkjet printer. When this happens, the UV light solidifies the corroded adhesive layer as well, causing the adhesive itself to lose its adhesive properties.

[0011] An inkjet printer uses a built-in UV irradiation device to artificially irradiate the image created by spraying UV ink onto an adhesive layer on a base sheet, solidifying the UV ink. The sheet with the image created by solidifying the UV ink is then transferred to a laminator (a machine that coats the printed surface with film), where the solidified UV ink image is then coated with film. This has been the manufacturing process for transfer stickers up until now. However, the finished transfer stickers are also exposed to natural UV rays, such as from sunlight. As a result, over time, the adhesive layer is eroded by the UV ink and solidifies, gradually losing its adhesiveness until it is no longer usable as an adhesive product.

[0012] If a thick ink with poor fluidity were used, the glue would not be eroded. However, the problem remained, as thick ink cannot be ejected from the inkjet printer head.

[0013] The only method that was feasible was silkscreen printing. A typical example is nail stickers. Silkscreen printing is a stencil printing method. A mesh screen with fine holes is created where necessary, and ink is then applied over the screen, creating an image through the ink spilling through the holes. For nail stickers, a nail-shaped stencil is first created. Glue is applied to the surface of a designated release material, only in the areas designated by the stencil, creating an initial adhesive layer. Individual stencils, each made for several ink colors, are then placed on top of the adhesive layer, and each ink color is applied over the stencil. This process is repeated, with each color layer stacked on top of the glue to create an image layer. Finally, an adhesive transfer film is applied to complete the sticker product. In this case, the ink is a thick ink. Even thick ink can be used if it is manually applied to the designated areas through the mesh screen. Conversely, if the ink is fluid, it will not remain in the designated location and will be unusable. While this type of production is possible using the manual silkscreen printing method, the process (making stencils for each color, printing ink for each color, etc.) is time-consuming and labor-intensive. Furthermore, it is expensive (it costs several tens of thousands of yen to make one stencil). Therefore, when the required quantity is small, silkscreen printing is difficult to handle from a cost perspective, and there are barriers to producing small quantities of various designs on image stickers.

[0014] The present invention is intended to eliminate the above drawbacks.

[0015] In order to achieve the above objectives, in this invention, we have considered the basic structure of conventional adhesive products (see Figure 1) and came up with the idea of ​​providing a silicone oil layer as an alternative to solid surface substrates such as paper or film.

[0016] When we think of a silicone layer, we generally think of release paper. It is the bottom layer in the basic structure of conventional adhesive products (see Figure 1). Release paper is made by applying a silicone compound diluted with a solvent onto the base paper, smoothing the surface, and then drying it.

[0017] However, in the present invention, the silicone layer is formed by laminating a predetermined amount of a predetermined silicone oil on the adhesive layer. The laminated silicone oil layer is neither smoothed nor dried. It is laminated so as not to mix with the adhesive layer. The silicone oil layer and adhesive layer must not be mixed before printing with an inkjet printer (the reason for this will be explained later). This laminated silicone oil layer prevents the ink from coming into direct contact with the adhesive layer. (See Figure 2(B)) [Means for solving the problem]

[0018] The method for producing a transfer sticker of the present invention includes a sheet-like release material, a first resin layer that is releasably provided on the release material and has adhesiveness and that hardens when irradiated with ultraviolet light, and a titanium oxide-adsorbing layer that is provided on the first resin layer. Silicone oil a first step of printing an ultraviolet curable ink containing titanium oxide in a desired shape on a transfer base sheet consisting of a titanium oxide layer using a printer device and irradiating it with ultraviolet light for a desired amount and for a desired time; a second step of printing an ultraviolet curable ink of a desired color in a desired shape on the ultraviolet curable ink using a printer device and irradiating it with ultraviolet light for a desired amount and for a desired time; a third step of printing an ultraviolet curable varnish in a desired shape on the ultraviolet curable ink of the desired color in the desired shape using a printer device and irradiating it with ultraviolet light for a desired amount and for a desired time; a substrate; and a thermoplastic layer that is provided integrally on the lower surface of the substrate and that is fluidized by heat and hardened by cooling. have a fourth step of superimposing the transfer film onto the transfer base sheet on which the image and varnish are printed, applying a desired pressure to destroy the first resin layer in the portion hardened by the ultraviolet irradiation, and heating with a desired heat to fluidize the thermoplastic layer; and a fourth step of cooling the destroyed first resin layer portion of the transfer base sheet and the thermoplastic layer. Silicone oil layer andand a fifth step of integrating the transfer film with the substrate.

[0019] The first resin is PVA (polyvinyl alcohol). be It is characterized by:

[0020] The ultraviolet curable ink containing titanium oxide is characterized by being a UV white ink.

[0021] The method is also characterized in that, between the first step and the second step, a step is added in which an ultraviolet curable ink containing titanium oxide is printed in a desired shape on the ultraviolet curable ink by a printer device, and ultraviolet light is irradiated in a desired amount for a desired time.

[0022] The moisture adsorption layer is characterized by being silicone oil containing silica gel.

[0023] The transfer sticker of the present invention comprises a sheet-like release material and a peelable adhesive sheet provided on the release material. Hardens when exposed to ultraviolet light a first resin layer; and a titanium oxide-adsorbing layer provided on the first resin layer. Silicone oil layer and the above Silicone oil formed in the first part of the layer Formed by UV-curable ink containing titanium oxide an image layer; an image layer formed by ultraviolet curing ink of a desired color formed on the image layer; The above-mentioned Silicone oil layer a varnish layer provided on the surface of the base material, and a first resin layer provided on the varnish layer in a peelable manner and in contact with the varnish layer, the first resin layer being not covered by the varnish layer. portion and Silicone oil layer The transfer film is characterized in that the first resin is made up of a transfer film in which the first resin and the first portion are integrated, and the first resin other than the first portion has no adhesive force.

[0024] The first resin is PVA (polyvinyl alcohol). be It is characterized by:

[0025] In addition, the titanium oxide Contains UV-curable inkis characterized by being a UV white ink.

[0026] In addition, the transfer sheet manufacturing apparatus of the present invention is characterized by comprising a printer device, a transfer base sheet supplying means for supplying a transfer base sheet to the printer device, a transfer film supplying means for supplying a transfer film, a pressurizing and heating means for superimposing the transfer film supplied from the transfer film supplying means onto the transfer base sheet on which an image has been printed by the printer device, and for pressurizing and heating the transfer base sheet and the transfer film, and a transfer seal winding means for winding up a transfer seal consisting of the transfer base sheet on which the image has been printed and the transfer film that have been integrated by the pressurizing and heating means.

[0027] The apparatus further comprises a cover sheet winding means for winding up a cover sheet that covers the adhesive surface of the transfer base sheet. [Effects of the Invention]

[0028] According to the present invention, a transfer sticker provided with an image layer can be stored for a long period of time. In addition, a process for transferring the image to an object without any problems can be achieved, and the image can be transferred neatly without leaving any adhesive residue other than the image. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0029] [Figure 1] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of a conventional transfer sticker. [Figure 2(A)] 1 is an explanatory diagram showing a first step of the method for producing a transfer sticker of the present invention. [Figure 2(B)] 1 is an explanatory vertical cross-sectional side view of a transfer base sheet in a first step of the method for producing a transfer sticker of the present invention. [Figure 2(C)] 1 is an explanatory vertical cross-sectional side view of a transfer base sheet in a first step of the method for producing a transfer sticker of the present invention. [Figure 3] 10A to 10C are explanatory vertical cross-sectional side views of the transfer base sheet in the second and third steps of the method for producing the transfer sticker of the present invention. [Figure 4(A)]FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of the fourth step of the method for producing a transfer sticker of the present invention. [Figure 4(B)] 10 is an explanatory vertical cross-sectional side view of the transfer base sheet in the fifth step of the method for producing the transfer sticker of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 5(A)] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of a sixth step in the method for producing a transfer sticker of the present invention. [Figure 5(B)] 10 is an explanatory vertical cross-sectional side view of the transfer base sheet in the sixth step of the method for producing the transfer sticker of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 6] 10 is an explanatory vertical cross-sectional side view of the transfer base sheet in the seventh step of the method for producing the transfer sticker of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of the eighth step of the method for producing the transfer sticker of the present invention. [Figure 8(A)] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of the 9th step of the method for producing the transfer sticker of the present invention. [Figure 8(B)] FIG. 10 is an explanatory vertical cross-sectional side view of the transfer base sheet in the 9th step of the method for producing the transfer sticker of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a longitudinal sectional side view for explaining the layer structure of the transfer film of the present invention. [Figure 10(A)] FIG. 10 is an explanatory vertical cross-sectional side view of a bonded body (transfer sticker) of a transfer base sheet a and a transfer film b in the ninth step of the method for producing a transfer sticker of the present invention. [Figure 10(B)] FIG. 10 is an explanatory vertical cross-sectional side view of a bonded body (transfer sticker) of a transfer base sheet a and a transfer film b in the ninth step of the method for producing a transfer sticker of the present invention. [Figure 10(C)] FIG. 10 is an explanatory vertical cross-sectional side view of a bonded body (transfer sticker) of a transfer base sheet a and a transfer film b in the ninth step of the method for producing a transfer sticker of the present invention. [Figure 10(D)] 1 is a schematic vertical cross-sectional side view of a transfer sticker of the present invention. [Figure 11] 11 is an explanatory plan view of the resin layer of FIG. 10 viewed from above, and an explanatory diagram of the tenth step of the method for using the transfer sticker of the present invention. [Figure 12(A)] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of the 11th step of the method for using the transfer sticker of the present invention. [Figure 12(B)]FIG. 11 is an explanatory vertical cross-sectional side view of the transfer sticker in the eleventh step of the method for using the transfer sticker of the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 12 is an explanatory vertical cross-sectional side view of the transfer sticker in the twelfth step of the method for using the transfer sticker of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 12 is an explanatory vertical cross-sectional side view of the transfer sticker in the twelfth step of the method for using the transfer sticker of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is an explanatory vertical cross-sectional side view of the transfer sticker in the thirteenth step of the method for using the transfer sticker of the present invention. [Figure 16] FIG. 14 is an explanatory vertical cross-sectional side view of the transfer sticker in the 14th step of the method for using the transfer sticker of the present invention. [Figure 17] FIG. 1 is a flowchart of a transfer sticker manufacturing machine of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0030] Examples of modes for carrying out the present invention are shown below. [Example]

[0031] An embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings.

[0032] A. About the materials used

[0033] First, the materials (1) to (4) used will be explained below.

[0034] (1) UV (ultraviolet curing) ink (paint)

[0035] For example, five colors are used: W (white) ink and CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow, black) inks. Note that CMYK refers to a single color of C, M, Y, or K, or a color that combines several of these colors, or all of CMYK.

[0036] The above colors (inks) are just an example, and other colors may be used, or only some of the CMYK inks may be used.

[0037] The W (white) ink that is ejected first is used as a base layer to enable the image formed thereon to be clearly displayed. In addition to W (white) ink, there are no particular limitations on the type of UV ink that can be used for this undercoat layer, as long as it has quality characteristics that are suitable for the manufacturing process and contains titanium oxide.

[0038] In addition, UV (ultraviolet curing) ink is used because the color image itself needs to be plasticized.

[0039] (The following is an explanation of the ingredients contained in UV ink)

[0040] These ingredients are merely examples, and while general UV inks can be used, UV inks that are compatible with the manufacturing process should be selected. Using ink with incompatible properties can lead to poor quality, such as ink that is not fully dried or dries quickly.

[0041] Pigment: Color component THFA (tetrahydrofurfuryl acrylate): A resin that polymerizes under UV light, but the polymerization reaction is slow. It also acts as a diluent and has very low viscosity. Acrylate oligomer: UV-curable resin. Resin polymer that molds images. Acrylate monomer: A resin monomer that polymerizes under UV light. It complements oligomers. The ink's fluidity depends on the ratio of monomers (resin monomers). Photopolymerization initiator The UV ink of this embodiment has the property of having a slower polymerization / curing speed than ordinary UV ink.

[0042] (2) UV (ultraviolet curing) varnish

[0043] (The following are ingredients contained in UV varnish)

[0044] These components are merely examples, and a general UV varnish may also be used, but as with UV ink, a UV ink that is suitable for the manufacturing process is selected.

[0045] THFA (Tetrahydrofurfuryl acrylate): Diluent. Very low viscosity. HDDA (Hexanediol Diacrylate): A type of acrylate monomer that polymerizes under UV light. It has excellent substrate penetration, flexibility, adhesion, and weather resistance. Photopolymerization initiator In this example, the varnish is also designed to have a slow polymerization rate. Because it does not contain oligomers, it takes time for plasticization.

[0046] The UV varnish is transparent so that the image below can be seen.

[0047] Instead of the UV varnish, a UV ink may be used which, when printed, smooths the upper surface and is not integrated with the transfer film by the thermoplastic resin described below.

[0048] (3) Transfer base sheet a (for example, rolled up and placed on a rotating drum)

[0049] In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, the transfer base sheet a comprises a sheet-shaped release material, a first resin layer (glue layer) having adhesiveness and cured by irradiation with ultraviolet light, which is releasably provided (laminated) on the release material, and a 、 For example, silicone oil Layer It consists of:

[0050] There are no limitations on the release material, but if a PP (polypropylene) film, which has a higher surface smoothness than general release paper, is used as the release material, it can be peeled off from the first resin layer quite easily.

[0051] In particular, if the first resin layer (glue layer) contains moisture, it is necessary to use PP film rather than release paper. If the material is paper, it is likely to absorb moisture and interfere with the removal of the adhesive. PP film also has greater flexibility and elasticity than release paper. As will be explained later in "0165," the release layer not only needs to simply release the first resin layer, but also be flexible and elastic. However, it does not have to have flexibility and elasticity.

[0052] Also, the above Silicone oil layer The resin is not particularly limited as long as it has a substance that is adsorbed to titanium oxide, but as will be described later, silicone oil containing silicon (Si) is preferred. Liquid form is also preferred. Furthermore, the resin layer constituting the transfer base sheet a may be omitted as necessary. 。

[0053] The base material of the release material is elastic paper 1. A PP (polypropylene) film is pressure-bonded to the top surface of the paper 1. The surface of the PP film layer 2 is very smooth, and the PP layer 2 itself has a higher elasticity and flexibility than the release layer of the release paper.

[0054] Then, a gel-like (moisturized) PVA (polyvinyl alcohol), for example, is applied as a first resin layer / glue material onto the PP film layer 2. (A resin-based glue material that hardens when exposed to ultraviolet light (ultraviolet-curable resin) may also be applied.) The applied PVA is in a gel-like state. Furthermore, because the underlying PP film has a high surface smoothness, there is little friction between the PVA and the surface of the PP film layer 2.

[0055] A silicone oil layer 4 is provided on the top surface of the PVA layer 3. The silicone contained in the silicone oil layer 4 is not easily adhesive. A gel-like PVA is used, and the silicone oil layer 4 is simply laminated on the PVA layer 3, and the silicone oil layer 4 does not mix with the PVA layer 3. In summary, the PVA layer 3, which is the first resin layer / glue material, is provided on the PP film layer 2, and the PVA layer 3 is provided on top of the PVA layer 3. Nisi It has a structure in which the corn oil layer 4 is simply laminated.

[0056] If the thickness of the laminated silicone oil layer is too thick, the W (white) ink described below will not penetrate below. The quality characteristics, such as fluidity, vary depending on the W (white) ink used. A thickness that matches the quality characteristics of the ink used is required.

[0057] In addition, the first resin layer formed on the release material is not particularly limited, as long as it is a resin other than PVA that initially has adhesive properties but hardens when exposed to ultraviolet light and eventually loses its adhesive properties.

[0058] Silicone itself, which is a component of the silicone oil layer 4, is poorly adhesive, but it is adsorbed to the pigment component of the W (white) ink.

[0059] That is, the pigment of W (white) ink is titanium oxide, and silicon (Si), a constituent element of silicone, is adsorbed to titanium oxide. As will be explained in the manufacturing process and final summary, the silicone oil layer 4 plays a role in controlling the bonding action between the W (white) ink and PVA, and also in providing flexibility and balance to the image layer created by layering the inks.

[0060] Other substances that adsorb to titanium dioxide include silica gel (SiO2·nH2O) and aluminum hydroxide (AlOH3). Silicon is also present in silica gel, but it absorbs moisture from the PVA beneath the image layer. When the moisture beneath the image layer decreases, the adhesiveness of the PVA adhesive material is lost, weakening its adhesive strength to the object being transferred. Aluminum hydroxide cannot be used as it may react with the mineral components contained in the PVA moisture, causing it to turn black (a phenomenon known as "blackening"). For these reasons, silicone oil is the most preferable way to ensure the quality of this product.

[0061] (4) Transfer film B (for example, rolled up on a rotating drum)

[0062] In the present invention, the transfer film b comprises a substrate 12, a thermoplastic layer 11 as a lower layer of the substrate 12, and a moisture-absorbing layer such as a non-adhesive resin layer 10 that absorbs moisture and is provided under the thermoplastic layer (see FIG. 9).

[0063] When the thermoplastic material is applied to the substrate 12, it penetrates into the surface pores of the substrate 12 / PET film, the solvent contained in the plasticizer evaporates, the plasticizer hardens, and the thermoplastic material is bonded to the substrate 12 / PET film. Furthermore, a non-adhesive resin layer 10 is laminated on the thermoplastic material layer 11 of the bonded body thus formed to produce transfer film b.

[0064] This non-adhesive resin layer 10 is a silicone oil compound that contains silica gel (SiO2·nH2O) in silicone oil. The silicone oil compound serves to remove moisture from the first resin layer (glue layer) / PVA layer 3 of the transfer base sheet. If moisture remains in the PVA layer, the PVA layer 3 loses moisture, causing the adhesiveness of the first resin layer (glue layer) / PVA layer 3 to be lost.

[0065] By providing a moisture absorption layer and absorbing the moisture in the PVA, the integration with the thermoplastic material is ensured, and the adhesiveness is eliminated, preventing adhesive residue as described below. If PVA with strong UV curing properties is used, there is no need to provide a moisture absorbing layer.

[0066] The thermoplastic material is fluidized by heat and hardened by natural cooling to room temperature, and the base material 12, the first resin layer that has lost its adhesiveness, and the first resin layer that was originally adhesive are then bonded together. Ishi ricin oil Layer Incorporate and integrate.

[0067] At this time, the thermoplastic does not corrode the UV varnish layer covering the image layer. Because it does not corrode the UV varnish layer 9, once the heat cools down, the hardened thermoplastic and UV varnish layer 9 can be easily peeled off (see Figure 10(B)).

[0068] The substrate 12 is a resin film such as a PET film. It is required to have thermal flexibility, but it also needs to be light-transmitting. If the material is not highly light-transmitting, UV ink and UV varnish will not function as expected. For example, the substrate 12 cannot be substituted with stretchable vinyl chloride, because vinyl chloride has poor light-transmitting properties.

[0069] As will be described later, the transfer film b may be made of a material that can integrate the transfer film b and the transfer base sheet a at predetermined portions and can bond them so that they are not integrated at other portions.

[0070] B. Manufacturing Equipment

[0071] FIG. 17 shows a transfer sticker manufacturing apparatus 14 for manufacturing the transfer sticker of the present invention.

[0072] The transfer seal manufacturing apparatus 14 comprises a printer device 15, a transfer base sheet supplying means 16 that supplies a transfer base sheet a to the printer device 15, a transfer film supplying means 17 that supplies a transfer film b, a pressurizing and heating means 18 that superimposes the transfer film b supplied from the transfer film supplying means 17 onto the transfer base sheet a on which an image has been printed by the printer device 15, and pressurizes and heats the transfer base sheet a and the transfer film b, and a transfer seal winding means 19 that winds up the transfer seal consisting of the transfer base sheet a on which the image has been printed and the transfer film that have been integrated by the pressurizing and heating means 18.

[0073] Reference numeral 20 denotes a cover sheet winding means for peeling off and winding up the cover sheet provided to protect (cover) the adhesive surface of the transfer base sheet a.

[0074] The printer device 15 comprises, for example, a suction plate 15a having a sheet suction section on which the transfer base sheet b, from which the cover sheet has been peeled off and supplied from the transfer base sheet supply means 16, is placed, printing head sections such as a W ink head section 15b, a CMYK ink head section 15c, and a varnish ink head section 15d that spray W ink, CMYK ink, and varnish ink for printing at predetermined locations on the transfer base sheet b placed on the suction plate 15a, and a UV lamp section 15e.

[0075] The W ink head portion 15b, the CMYK ink head portion 15c, and the varnish ink head portion 15d are arranged in this order along the direction of travel of the transfer base sheet b, and are formed so as to be printed in this order.

[0076] In addition to providing a plurality of print head units, there are various ink ejection means, such as using a single head unit to eject each ink.

[0077] The transfer base sheet supply means 16 comprises, for example, a transfer base sheet winding rotating drum 16a around which the transfer base sheet is wound, and a guide section (not shown) that guides the transfer base sheet from the transfer base sheet winding drum 15a to the printer device 15.

[0078] The transfer film supply means 17 comprises, for example, a transfer film winding rotating drum 17a around which transfer film a is wound, and a guide section (not shown) that guides the transfer film from the transfer film winding rotating drum 16a to the pressurizing and heating means 17.

[0079] The pressurizing and heating means 18 is, for example, composed of two opposing pressure rollers 18a, 18a that pressurize the inserted sheet, a heating means 18b provided on at least one of the pressure rollers, and a guide section (not shown) that inserts the transfer film from the transfer film supply means 17 and the transfer base sheet on which the image from the printer device 15 is printed, in a superimposed state, between the two rollers, and is configured so that the sheet inserted between the rollers is pressurized with the desired pressure and heated by the heating means.

[0080] Although the pressurizing and heating means is formed by a pair of rollers, other means may be used, and the pressurizing means and the heating means may be separate. Furthermore, if one of them is omitted or if the transfer base sheet and the transfer film can be integrated, the pressurizing and heating means may be omitted.

[0081] The transfer seal winding means 19 comprises, for example, a transfer seal winding rotating drum 19a that winds up the integrated transfer seal, and a guide section (not shown) that guides the transfer seal from the pressurizing and heating means 18 to the winding drum 19a.

[0082] C. About the production process

[0083] Next, the manufacturing process will be described.

[0084] The above materials are set in the dedicated transfer film manufacturing device 14 as shown in FIG.

[0085] Next, using this one transfer film manufacturing device, the following steps 1 to 14 are carried out.

[0086] In this embodiment, the printer device will be described as an inkjet printer that draws a crescent moon image.

[0087] Process 1

[0088] As shown in Figure 2(A), the dedicated machine / printer 15, for example, an inkjet printer, ejects and prints a liquid titanium oxide-containing UV-W (white) ink as a base layer onto the transfer base sheet a in a desired shape, for example, a crescent-shaped image. As shown in Figure 2(B), the ejected W ink comes into contact with the silicone oil layer 4 on the top of the transfer base sheet a.

[0089] At this time, the silicone in the silicone oil layer 4 is adsorbed by the titanium oxide pigment, which is a component of the W ink. The W ink, which has been adsorbed and wrapped around the silicone, forms an icicle-like lower layer and infiltrates the PVA 3 layer. As shown in Figure 2(C), the silicone is adsorbed to the W ink, forming a first layer 6 where the W ink remains on the silicone oil layer 4, and a second layer 7 where the W ink reaches the PVA 3 layer and remains on the PVA layer 3 (see Figure 2(C)).

[0090] There is also W ink remaining at the boundary between the first layer 6 and the second layer 7 (see FIG. 2(C)).

[0091] At this time, the W ink is enveloped in silicone and does not come into direct contact with the PVA. In other words, the silicone acts as an outer layer for the W ink, preventing it from coming into direct contact with the PVA.

[0092] It is necessary to prevent the W ink from coming into direct contact with the PVA, and this requirement is met by the silicone. The reason for this will be explained later in the final summary.

[0093] Because silicone adsorbs to the W ink, much of the W ink is fixed to the silicone oil 4 layer of the transfer base sheet a, thereby forming a first layer 6 consisting of W ink 5 and silicone oil 4. Much of the fixed W ink 5 then becomes the base for the W ink layer 5, CMYK layer 8, and varnish layer 9 that will be layered in subsequent processes (see Figure 3).

[0094] The W ink that reaches the PVA layer 3 is covered with silicone and infiltrates the PVA layer 3, but the silicone adsorbed to the pigment acts as a barrier, preventing the W ink itself from coming into direct contact with the PVA.

[0095] The PP layer 2 does not absorb the W ink at all, so the W ink reaches only the PVA layer 3 (Fig. 2(C)).

[0096] Process 2

[0097] The W ink is then jetted and printed in a desired shape, for example, the crescent shape, by the inkjet printer 13 so as to overcoat the W ink layer 5 (see FIG. 3).

[0098] The reason for applying a top coat is that the amount of W ink itself that penetrates the PVA layer 3 and the silicone oil layer 4 is small. The PVA layer 3 and the silicone oil layer 4 have a limit to the amount of W ink that can penetrate them. If the amount of W ink itself remaining in the PVA layer 3 and the silicone oil layer 4 is small, the "white" color will be weak. A weak "white" color will be affected by the color of the transfer object 13 to which the transfer sticker is affixed. For example, if the transfer object 13 is black, if the "white" applied on top of the black is weak, the black of the transfer object 13 will show through, and the colors created by C / blue, M / red, and Y / yellow applied on top of the white will appear darker. Therefore, it is necessary to apply a top coat to the W ink layer 5 to establish the "white" color.

[0099] Depending on the color of the transfer target 13, the top coat of W ink 5 on the W ink 5 layer may be omitted.

[0100] In addition, from the above-mentioned step 1 to step 2, ultraviolet rays are artificially and continuously irradiated by the above-mentioned UV lamp unit 15e at a desired amount. Furthermore, until the following step 7, ultraviolet rays are artificially and continuously irradiated by the above-mentioned UV lamp unit 15e at a desired amount. It should be noted that irradiation need not be continuous, but may be performed for a desired period of time when necessary.

[0101] Process 3

[0102] 3, the overcoated W ink layer 5 is subsequently irradiated with UV (ultraviolet rays) to initiate polymerization and curing of the resin / oligomer contained in the W ink. At this time, the irradiated UV also reaches the first layer 6 below the W ink layer 5.

[0103] However, the layer 6 is hidden from UV radiation by the W ink layer 5, the CMYK color layer 8 built on top of it, and the varnish layer 9 built on top of that CMYK color layer. Therefore, the amount of UV radiation is naturally significantly reduced. A small amount of UV radiation slows down the hardening of the layer 6.

[0104] Furthermore, the silicone outer layer surrounding the W ink in layers 6 and 7 remains virtually unaffected by UV light. Rather than changing its properties, it retains UV resistance through UV absorption. This delays the hardening of layer 6, allowing it to maintain its flexibility. Indeed, silicone oil layer 4 serves to create a flexible base for the W ink layer 5, CMYK layer 8, and varnish layer 9, which will be layered in subsequent processes (see Figure 3).

[0105] Furthermore, although the W ink reaches the second layer 7, very little UV (ultraviolet rays) reaches it. The very small amount of UV (ultraviolet rays) is absorbed by the silicone outer layer. In addition, PP2 and the base paper 11 are present at the bottom of layer 7. The base paper is not transparent, so very little UV passes through. Therefore, there is almost no effect from the UV (ultraviolet rays) that passes through the bottom of layer 7. As a result, the W ink that reaches the second layer 7 is only weakly cured.

[0106] Furthermore, the icicle-like W ink that reaches the second layer 7 acts as a root connecting the W ink layer 5, the first layer 6, and the second layer 7. As a result, even if the first layer 6 contains silicone that is difficult to adhere, the W ink 5 hardens due to UV irradiation, and the W ink 5 layer, the first layer 6, and the second layer 7 become one, and these layers do not peel off (see Figure 3).

[0107] This step 3 is only possible by using UV ink, which hardens when exposed to UV (ultraviolet) light.

[0108] That is, by ejecting liquid W ink using an inkjet printer 15, the ink's wettability is utilized to allow it to reach the PVA layer 3, and the UV ink is cured by UV light, thereby bonding and integrating the W ink layer 5, first layer 6, and second layer 7.

[0109] The surface of the W ink layer 5 exposed to UV light becomes uneven (UV ink has the property of causing the surface to become uneven) (see FIG. 3).

[0110] Process 4

[0111] As shown in FIG. 4, CMYK ink, which is an ultraviolet curable resin of a desired color, is ejected from the CMYK ink head unit 15c of the printer device 15 onto the W ink layer 5 that has begun to polymerize and harden, to print, for example, a crescent-shaped image layer. At this time, ultraviolet light is irradiated, but it is not necessary to irradiate continuously, and it may be irradiated for a desired period of time when necessary. In addition, the CMYK ink head unit 15c rotates each drum as necessary to move the transfer base sheet a so that an image can be formed at a desired position on the transfer base sheet a.

[0112] Process 5

[0113] As shown in Figure 4(B), ultraviolet rays are also irradiated onto this CMYK ink layer 8. As a result, the resin / oligomer contained in the CMYK ink also begins to polymerize and harden. At this time, the surface of the CMYK ink layer 8 irradiated with ultraviolet rays also becomes uneven (see Figure 4(B)).

[0114] Process 6

[0115] As shown in FIG. 5(A), UV varnish is sprayed from the varnish ink head 15d of the printer 14 to cover the UV / CMYK ink image layer 8, which has started to polymerize and harden. At this time, the varnish completely covers the W ink layer 5 and the CMYK layer 8 thereon (see FIG. 5(B)). The UV varnish is also liquid.

[0116] In addition, the above-mentioned drums are rotated as necessary to move the above-mentioned transfer base sheet a so that the above-mentioned varnish ink head unit 15d can form varnish at the desired position on the above-mentioned transfer base sheet a.

[0117] The varnish spreads in an icicle shape, and the silicone oil layer at the outer edge of the image layer (the umbrella part when viewed in cross section) 4 and PVA layer 3 one Resin layer) is infiltrated (see Figure 5(B)).

[0118] Process 7-1

[0119] As shown in Fig. 6, ultraviolet rays are also irradiated onto the varnish layer 9. At this time, ultraviolet rays are irradiated, but they do not have to be irradiated continuously, and may be irradiated for a desired period of time when necessary.

[0120] In addition, following the steps 1 and 2, the artificial ultraviolet irradiation is also carried out continuously in the steps 3 to 7. It should be noted that irradiation may not be continuous, but may be performed when necessary.

[0121] UV (ultraviolet rays) also reach the varnish that has soaked into the silicone oil layer 4 and PVA layer 3 at the outer edge of this image layer (the umbrella part when viewed in cross section), and the varnish in this area also hardens. The varnish that has reached the silicone oil layer 4 and hardened becomes a root that connects the varnish layer 9, the silicone oil layer 4, and the PVA layer 3, and as a result, the varnish layer 9 bonds the silicone oil layer 4 and the PVA layer 3.

[0122] As with step 3 above, silicone oil layer 4 and varnish layer 9 are made possible in step 7-1 only by using UV varnish, which hardens when exposed to UV (ultraviolet) light.

[0123] Process 7-2

[0124] The varnish layer 9 also begins to polymerize and harden, but the hardening rate is slow because the varnish does not contain oligomer resin and plastic reaction is poor.

[0125] The main component of UV varnish, resin, has the property of generating bubbles when exposed to ultraviolet rays.

[0126] Here we will explain about UV ink and UV varnish.

[0127] (1) Characteristics of UV ink

[0128] UV ink always contains resin / oligomer because the image needs to be molded using the resin / oligomer. This resin / oligomer has the characteristic that when exposed to UV light, the molded surface becomes uneven.

[0129] (2) The necessity of the varnish layer 9

[0130] The surface of the W ink layer 5 also becomes uneven when exposed to UV light, but is then overcoated with CMYK ink. However, the surface of the overcoated CMYK ink layer 8 also becomes uneven when exposed to UV light. A varnish layer 9 is provided to compensate for the drawback of the uneven surface. UV varnish also contains resin components, but a UV varnish that does not contain resin / oligomers, which have little plasticizing action, is used. If the UV varnish does not contain resin / oligomers, the fluidity of the UV varnish itself is high, and even when the varnish layer 9 is exposed to UV light, the surface is less likely to become uneven, resulting in a smoother surface.

[0131] As will be explained later, the UV varnish also serves to prevent corrosion by the thermoplastic material applied to the transfer film. If the surface of the CMYK layer 8 becomes uneven due to UV irradiation, the thermoplastic material will penetrate into the uneven areas, reducing the ease of peeling the image layer from the transfer film. However, the surface of the UV varnish is less likely to become uneven and is highly smooth, so the ease of peeling the image layer covered by the varnish from the transfer film is not reduced (see Figure 6).

[0132] (3) UV varnish ingredients (highly transparent)

[0133] The main components of Varnish 9 are THFA and HDDA. THFA acts as a diluent and is also contained in W (white) ink and CMYK ink. HDDA has excellent flexibility, adhesion, and substrate wetting properties. As will be explained later, flexibility and adhesion are required for the entire image layer. HDDA contributes to the flexibility and adhesion of the image layer.

[0134] (4) Air bubble generation

[0135] When exposed to UV (ultraviolet rays), W ink, CMYK ink, and UV varnish all generate bubbles. The bubbles that get into the image make the image unclear, hindering the image and being a nuisance. However, the varnish layer 9 generates few bubbles.

[0136] The air bubbles are pushed to the outside of the image layer by a pressurizing means described later, and the air bubbles in the image can be eliminated.

[0137] Process 8

[0138] As a result of continued UV irradiation, the PVA layer 3 in the upper part without an image is crosslinked (see Figure 7). In addition, since the surface of the PP layer 2 is highly smooth and there is little friction between the surface of the PP layer 2 and the gel-like PVA, the PVA layer 3 in the upper part without an image is easily crosslinked.

[0139] Once cross-linked, as shown in Figure 7, when viewed in cross section, the PVA itself becomes uneven toward the silicone oil layer 4. Furthermore, as UV light is continuously irradiated, the cross-linked PVA hardens. As hardening progresses, the moisture content of the PVA decreases. As the moisture content decreases, the adhesive strength of the PVA itself decreases. If UV light is continuously irradiated, the PVA will eventually lose its adhesive properties.

[0140] Note that the term "adhesive" as used here does not refer to a determination based entirely on the presence or absence of stickiness, but does not include weak adhesive strength such that when a transfer film is simply superimposed on the transfer base film and then peeled off, the PVA resin also adheres to the transfer film and is peeled off.

[0141] In the PVA layer 3 below the varnish-coated area, where there is no image layer, the UV varnish penetrates into the PVA layer, making crosslinking (bonding of PVA molecules) difficult. Therefore, crosslinking of the PVA in this area does not progress (see Figure 7).

[0142] Process 9

[0143] The transfer base sheet a that has been processed up to step 8 is moved to the pressurizing and heating means 18 by rotating the rotary drums, and the transfer film b is superimposed on top of the transfer base sheet a (see FIG. 8(A)). In detail, the non-adhesive resin layer / silicone oil compound 10 ("0064", see FIG. 9) provided on the underside of the substrate 12 of the transfer film b is brought into contact with the transfer base sheet a including the image layer.

[0144] Then, the rotary drums are further rotated, and the superposed transfer base sheet a and transfer film b are inserted between the pair of pressure rollers. Immediately after contact, a predetermined pressure, for example, 5 kg / cm is applied from above the substrate 12 of the transfer film b. 2This high pressure first destroys the PVA layer that has hardened outside the varnish-coated area, starting from the top, in the area without the image layer. The destroyed PVA layer 3 mixes with the silicone oil layer 4 (see Figure 10(A)).

[0145] Note that destruction here does not mean completely destroying the hardened PVA, but is sufficient as long as it is destroyed to the extent that gaps or cracks can be formed in the hardened PVA through which the fluidized thermoplastic can penetrate. Therefore, the predetermined pressure is sufficient if it is sufficient to cause destruction within the above range.

[0146] Silica gel (SiO2·nH2O), a component of silicone oil compound 10, is forced into this mixed layer / 3+4 through the destroyed gaps and into the PVA under high pressure. The forced silica gel removes the moisture remaining in the destroyed PVA. As a result, the destroyed PVA and silicone oil layer mixed layer / 3+4 loses almost all of its adhesiveness (see Figure 10(B)).

[0147] At the same time, the mixed layer is heated between heated rollers to a desired temperature, e.g., 80°C, sufficient to plasticize the thermoplastic material of the transfer film b. The 80°C heat fluidizes the thermoplastic material 11 that was attached to the back of the silicone oil compound layer 10. The fluidized thermoplastic material 11 flows into the mixed layer / 3+4 of the destroyed PVA layer 3 and silicone oil layer 4, incorporating and plasticizing the mixed layer. As mentioned above, the fluidized thermoplastic material 11 does not erode the UV varnish layer 9 that covers the highly smooth image layer (see Figure 10(C)).

[0148] Also, as mentioned in "0063", when transfer film b is made, the substrate 12 / PET film and thermoplastic material 11 are already integrated, and strictly speaking, step 9 integrates the mixed layer / 3+4 and the PET film / 9+10+11.

[0149] The desired temperature is a temperature at which the thermoplastic material 11 has fluidity.

[0150] The thermoplastic material 11 is, for example, triethylene glycol divinyl.

[0151] Instead of using a thermoplastic material, there is also a method of integrating the transfer base sheet a and the transfer film b using a swelling agent. This method utilizes the small amount of adhesive remaining inside the PVA after the PVA layer has hardened. Specifically, a swelling agent (instead of a thermoplastic material) is applied to the transfer film b, which is then brought into contact with the PVA to retain moisture. When high pressure is then applied, the PVA breaks, revealing the adhesive material with the small amount of adhesive remaining inside. This adhesive force is used to transfer the remaining PVA to the transfer film. However, this method may leave some adhesiveness in areas of the transfer film where there is no image layer, which may result in adhesive residue on the target object when transferring the image.

[0152] Therefore, in the present invention, the transfer film (b) is composed of a thermoplastic material and a silicone oil compound, and both materials are sent to the transfer base sheet (a) and reacted. First, the silicone oil compound removes the moisture remaining in the PVA, eliminating its adhesiveness. Then, the thermoplastic material is used to integrate the substrate (11) with the PVA, which has lost its adhesiveness, preventing adhesive residue.

[0153] Furthermore, if there is a means by which the transfer film and the second resin portion can be integrated without being integrated with the UV varnish layer (or a corresponding layer), this means may be used to integrate them.

[0154] Transfer film B has A) A silicone oil compound layer 10 is provided on the lower surface (contact surface with the transfer base sheet a), and a thermoplastic material layer 11 is provided on the back of the silicone oil compound. a) Having flexibility (thermal elasticity) to match the surface shape of the silicone oil layer 4 and the varnish layer 9 C) The film base has high light transmittance It is desirable to have a product that meets the above three requirements.

[0155] There is another purpose to applying high pressure and heat. When pressure is applied from above the transfer film covering the image layer, the three-dimensional image layer and the transfer film form an uneven relationship. When a thermo-elastic transfer film is placed over the image layer, which has been thickly coated with ink and varnish to enhance its three-dimensionality, and high pressure and heat are applied from above, the image layer and the transfer film become closely attached with a large difference in height between the unevenness. Then, by rotating each of the rotating drums, the transfer film is pulled out from the rotating rollers and naturally cooled to room temperature. As the heat cools and the transfer film shrinks, the transfer film grips the image layer even more firmly. The uneven relationship with a stronger grip increases the degree of adhesion between the image layer and the transfer film. A highly adhesive uneven relationship weakens the peelability between the image layer and the transfer film.

[0156] When attaching an image to an object to be transferred, it is first necessary to peel off sheet a from the release material to expose the adhesive layer underneath the image layer. If the adhesion between the image layer and the transfer film weakens during this process, the image layer will peel off from the transfer film before the adhesive layer underneath the image layer is exposed.

[0157] To avoid such problems, it is necessary to weaken the peelability between the image layer and the transfer film, that is, to strengthen the bonding strength between the image layer and the transfer film.

[0158] One idea is to make the transfer film itself adhesive to strengthen the bond between the image layer and the transfer film, but I don't agree with this. If the adhesive is too strong, it will be difficult to peel the image layer and the transfer film. Also, adhesives with weak adhesive tend to deteriorate easily, and deteriorated adhesives will undergo cohesive failure, leaving the possibility of the failed adhesive leaving a residue.

[0159] Both UV ink and UV varnish generate bubbles when exposed to ultraviolet light. This high-pressure process is carried out before the UV ink etc. is completely cured in order to eliminate any air bubbles that may have formed, by pushing them to the edges of the image layer. (See Figure 11)

[0160] The pressure is A) It can destroy cross-linked and hardened PVA. a) Silicone oil compound contained in the transfer film Silica gel is forced into the destroyed PVA layer C) The degree to which the above "0156" obstacles can be avoided If the above three conditions can be met, the level is 5kg / cm 2 You don't have to be bound by that.

[0161] Fever A) Thermoplastic materials can be fluidized A) Transfer film can be thermally expanded C) Does not dissolve the PP release material of Sheet A As long as the above three conditions are met, there is no need to stick to 80°C.

[0162] The ultraviolet irradiation from the inkjet printer ends when sheet a and film b are superimposed and heat and pressure are applied.

[0163] From step 1 / ink ejection to step / sheet a and film b are superimposed and heat and pressure are applied. A) The amount of ultraviolet light emitted from the printer b) Quality characteristics of ink and varnish C) Amount of silicone oil in sheet a D) Time for each process The quantity, quality characteristics, and time are all calculated together to determine the result. If this relationship is disrupted, quality cannot be guaranteed. Therefore, the processes performed by the printer and the laminator must be performed seamlessly. Therefore, rather than having a division of labor between a flatbed printer and a laminator, a web printer with laminating functions is required. (See Figure 17)

[0164] The PVA in the second layer 7 does not crosslink or harden. The amount of UV (ultraviolet rays) that reaches it is very small due to the laminated varnish layer 9, CMYK layer 8, W layer 5, and first layer 6. Heat is also poorly transmitted, and the properties of the PVA itself do not change even when high pressure is applied. The high pressure further smooths the surface of the varnish layer 9. The varnish layer 9 has high fluidity and slow UV curing, making further smoothing possible. When the surface of the varnish layer 9 is smoothed, the seal with the transfer film b is improved.

[0165] When high pressure is applied, the release material PP (polypropylene film) layer 2 on the upper layer of the substrate 1 of the sheet a first assumes the role of a cushion as described in "0051".

[0166] Next, the first layer 6 acts as a cushion. The silicone contained in layer 6 itself is flexible. In addition, the silicone clinging to the W (white) ink absorbs ultraviolet light, delaying the solidification of the W (white) ink in layer 6. The W (white) ink that is slow to solidify becomes flexible.

[0167] Due to the presence of the PP (polypropylene film) layer 2 and the W (white) ink layer 6, which is made flexible by silicone, a high pressure of 5 kg / cm is applied from above. 2 Even if the ink layer 5, the CMYK ink layer 8, and the varnish layer 9 are subjected to heat, they will not break. Because they are not broken, the image layer will not break or crack.

[0168] The time for each of steps 1 to 9 must be consistent. Again, if all conditions such as time, ink quality characteristics, and UV exposure amount are not met, there is a high possibility of quality defects occurring. Therefore, in order to accurately maintain the time intervals for each step, a consistent process using dedicated machines is required (see Figure 17).

[0169] It should be noted that other integration means may be used as long as the transfer film and the resin are integrated.

[0170] The high pressure step may be omitted, and if it is possible to integrate the steps, other methods may be used and the high temperature step may also be omitted.

[0171] Step 10

[0172] The transfer seal consisting of the transfer film b and the transfer base sheet a, which have been produced and joined in steps 1 to 10 above, moves as each rotating drum rotates and is taken up by the transfer seal take-up drum, completing the product as shown in Figure 10(D).

[0173] Then, in order to actually transfer the image of the transfer sticker to the transfer target, a necessary portion including the image is cut out from the transfer sticker as shown in FIG.

[0174] Step 11

[0175] As shown in Figures 12(A) and 12(B), the release material is peeled off from the transfer sticker, leaving only the necessary portion, and the PVA layer 3, silicone oil layer 4, second layer 7, first layer 6, W layer 5, CMYK layer 8, and varnish layer 9 are transferred to film b.

[0176] That is, the surface of the PP layer 2 is very smooth. Therefore, the cross-linked PVA in the PP layer 2 and the PVA layer 3 repel each other and want to be peeled off from each other.

[0177] Furthermore, the PVA contained in the second layer 7, which is difficult for ultraviolet light to penetrate, does not crosslink or harden. Furthermore, the PVA is originally gelled, and if the release material is PP (polypropylene film), it is easy to peel off the PVA at the bottom of the second layer 7. If the release material is paper, the moisture in the gel will likely be absorbed by the paper, making it difficult to peel off the PVA.

[0178] Furthermore, the mixed layer of PVA layer 3 and silicone oil layer 4, which has hardened and broken down and lost its adhesive strength in the area where the image layer is not present, is plastically integrated by the thermoplasticizer in the transfer film. The silicone compound in the transfer film has also lost its adhesive properties. Therefore, this mixed layer can be easily peeled off from the release material PP (polypropylene film) at the bottom of the PVA layer 3 (see Figure 12(B)).

[0179] Furthermore, since the mixed layer is plastically integrated after completely losing its adhesive properties, there is no risk of defects such as "glue residue" occurring on the transfer target object.

[0180] Step 12

[0181] As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the transfer film b obtained in the above step 12 is placed on the target portion of the transfer object 13 to which the image is to be attached, and pressure is applied from above the film b.

[0182] The image can be attached to the transfer object 13 if it is hard and the surface is not specially treated. (For example, the back surface of the iPhone made by Apple Inc. is specially treated and cannot maintain adhesion.)

[0183] As shown in Figure 14, when pressure is applied, the uncured PVA in the second layer 7, which retains its adhesiveness, is pushed out, and only the image adheres to the transfer object 13. The PVA itself under the image layer is not cross-linked or cured because it is difficult for ultraviolet light to reach it, and has strong adhesive strength, so it adheres strongly to the transfer object. In contrast, the PVA portion where there is no image layer has almost lost its adhesive strength as described above, and does not have strong adhesive strength to the transfer target object.

[0184] Step 13

[0185] When the transfer film b pressed against the object to be transferred 13 is peeled off, as shown in Figure 15, the second layer 7, the first layer 6, the W layer 5, the CMYK layer 8, the varnish layer 9, the PVA layer 3 protected by the roots of the varnish 9, and part of the silicone oil layer 4 (inside the roots of the varnish 9) are transferred to the object to be transferred 13.

[0186] The hardened varnish has a highly smooth surface, which repels any thermoplastic material that attempts to erode it. As mentioned in "0121," the silicone oil layer 4 and PVA layer 3 are infiltrated from the varnish layer 9, bonding the varnish layer 9, silicone oil layer 4, and PVA layer 3. The roots of the varnish 9 also have a highly smooth surface. These roots act as a barrier, preventing the thermoplastic material from eroding the inside of the roots, including the roots. Therefore, only the outermost layer of the PVA layer 3 and silicone oil layer 4, which has hardened, broken, and lost its adhesiveness, is plastically integrated with the transfer film b by the thermoplastic material 11. Therefore, the PVA 3 protected by the varnish layer 9 and the roots of the varnish 9 can easily be peeled off from part of the silicone oil layer 4 (the inside of the roots of the varnish 9).

[0187] Step 14

[0188] The bond between the varnish layer 9 and the transfer film b is only a strong pressure bond with a concave-convex relationship, as shown above at "0155." In contrast, the adhesion between the second layer 7 and the transfer object 13 is a strong adhesive state, as shown at "0183." The PVA extruded from the second layer 7, retaining its adhesive force, spreads not only directly below the second layer 7 but also below the edge of the second layer 7. The adhesive force of the latter overwhelmingly exceeds the pressure force of the former. Therefore, the transfer film b is easily peeled from the second layer 7, the first layer 6, the W layer 5, the CMYK layer 8, the varnish layer 9, and a portion of the PVA3 + silicone oil layer 4 (inside the root of the varnish 9) that is protected by the root of the varnish 9 and is transferred to the transfer object (see Figure 15).

[0189] From the above, film b can be easily peeled off from the transfer target object.

[0190] To summarize the adhesive strength comparison for the peeling parts: The order is (inside the root of the varnish 9 and the object to be transferred 13) > (outside the root of the varnish 9 and the object to be transferred 13) > (film b formed by plastically integrating the above mixed layer and the object to be transferred 13).

[0191] Peeling proceeds in the order of weakest adhesive strength, and as a result, only the layers necessary as image layers = second layer 7, first layer 6, W layer 5, CMYK layer 8, varnish layer 9, PVA layer 3 protected by the roots of varnish 9 + part of the silicone oil layer 4 (inside the roots of varnish 9) can be transferred to the transfer target object 13 (see Figure 16).

[0192] The above process, - The need to proceed precisely at the required time intervals - Specific high temperature and pressure must be applied continuously and constantly The amount of UV irradiation must be kept uniform. Maintaining productivity to ensure profits

[0193] For these four reasons, it is more suitable to carry out the entire process in one dedicated machine (see Figure 17).

[0194] Additionally, each material / ink, varnish, and sheet used throughout this process must be of the correct quality (ink and varnish that react precisely to the amount of UV radiation and harden on time, a sheet made of laminated PVA and silicone oil that reacts precisely to the amount of UV radiation and crosslinks and hardens, PET film with thermoplastic and silicone oil compound, etc.) If any one of the machines, processes, or materials is missing, the final product with satisfactory quality cannot be obtained.

[0195] Finally, the role of the silicone oil layer 4 will be summarized.

[0196] First, as explained in "0104", it plays a role in creating a flexible base for the image layers, namely the W ink layer 5, the CMYK ink layer 8, and the varnish layer 9. Without this role, the image layer would be hard as a whole, and the high pressure of 5 kg / cm applied after the transfer film b is applied would 2 The image layer will be destroyed. The destroyed image layer will be more likely to break or crack (as mentioned in "0059", "0166", and "0167").

[0197] Secondly, it also plays a major role in preventing contact between the W (white) ink and the PVA. The adhesive properties of the PVA are maintained, as it is not eroded by UV ink. The presence of an adhesive glue (PVA) allows the layers necessary for the image (second layer 7, first layer 6, W layer 5, CMYK layer 8, varnish layer 9, and PVA 3 protected by the roots of varnish 9 + part of the silicone oil layer 4 (inside the roots of varnish 9)) to adhere strongly and for a long time to the transfer target 13. Even if the W ink is sprayed directly onto the PVA layer 3 without the silicone oil layer 4 and the image layer is successfully completed through the above process and attached to the transfer target 13, the adhesive strength to the transfer target 13 is quite weak, and the adhesion is only maintained for a short time.

[0198] The W (white) ink ejected directly onto the PVA layer 3 bonds with the PVA, and the bonded W ink is cured by UV irradiation. During the W ink curing process, the adhesiveness of the bonded PVA is also cured. As a result, the adhesive force to the transfer target object 13 is lost.

[0199] Sheets a and b, created in steps 1 to 10 above, are exposed to natural UV (ultraviolet) rays, such as sunlight, while still bonded together. Continuing exposure to UV rays eventually causes the UV ink that forms the image layer to completely harden. At this point, the adhesive strength of the bonded PVA is also completely lost. The bonded assembly (transfer sticker) of sheets a and b that has lost its adhesive strength is completely useless. To store sheets a and b bonded together for long periods of time without losing their strong adhesive strength to the transfer target object 13, it is important to ensure that the adhesive strength of the adhesive material at the bottom of the image layer is not lost.

[0200] It is also not permitted to mix silicone with adhesive and apply it as a single layer to base sheet A. Silicone disperses within the adhesive, resulting in insufficient adsorption to UV ink containing titanium oxide. UV ink with insufficient silicone adsorption is more likely to bond with the adhesive. If the amount of silicone mixed is increased, more silicone will disperse within the adhesive, inhibiting the cross-linking of PVA. It is also not permitted to use UV ink that has PVA or other adhesives mixed in. UV ink itself hardens in response to ultraviolet light, so the adhesive properties of the mixed adhesive are lost.

[0201] The silicone oil layer 4 is also essential for the following functions.

[0202] To achieve the required quality, it is essential to crosslink and harden the adhesive in areas other than the image layer. (As described in "0138" to "0146") If the silicone oil layer 4 is not placed on the PVA layer 3, the transfer film b and the PVA will bond instantly when they come into direct contact. If they bond instantly, crosslinking and hardening will be difficult to progress. If the adhesive / PVA adheres to the transfer film b first, the adhesive force will be stronger, making it difficult to crosslink the PVA itself in the PVA layer 3. The silicone oil layer 4 is also essential for crosslinking and hardening.

[0203] In conclusion, it is essential to provide an independent silicone oil layer 4 on the PVA layer 3.

[0204] Because of the important role described above, it is difficult to consider the silicone oil layer 4 as part of the glue layer (PVA layer 3), or that the silicone oil layer 4 is the same as the glue layer (PVA layer 3). [Explanation of symbols]

[0205] 1 Base material (paper) layer 2 PP layers 3 PVA layers 4 Silicone oil layer 5 W (white) ink layer 6 First Layer 7 Second Layer 8 CMYK ink layers 9 varnish layers 10 Silicone oil compound layer 11 Thermoplastic / Triethylene Glycol Divinyl Layer 12 Base material (PET film) layer 13 Transcription target 14 Transfer sticker manufacturing equipment 15 Printer device 15a Mounting table 15b W ink head part 15c CMYK ink head 15d Varnish ink head 15e UV lamp section 16 Transfer base sheet supply means 16a Transfer film winding rotating drum 17 Transfer film supply means 17a Transfer film winding rotating drum 18 Pressurizing and heating means 18a Pressure roller 18b Heating means 19 Transfer seal winding means 19a Transfer seal winding rotating drum 20 Cover sheet winding means a Transfer base sheet (paper 1 + PP film 2 + PVA 3 + silicone Oil 4) b Transfer film (PET film 12 + thermoplastic material / triethylene glycol) Divinyl 11 + Silicone Oil Compound 10

Claims

1. A transfer base sheet is provided on the transfer base sheet, the transfer base sheet comprising a sheet-like release material, a first resin layer releasably provided on the release material, the first resin layer having adhesive properties and curing upon irradiation with ultraviolet light, and a silicone oil layer capable of adsorbing titanium oxide provided on the first resin layer. A first step of printing an ultraviolet curable ink containing titanium oxide into a desired shape using a printer device and irradiating the ink with ultraviolet light in a desired amount and for a desired time; a second step of printing ultraviolet curable ink of a desired color in a desired shape on the ultraviolet curable ink by a printer device and irradiating ultraviolet light in a desired amount for a desired time; a third step of printing ultraviolet curing varnish in a desired shape on the ultraviolet curing ink of the desired color in the desired shape using a printer device, and irradiating ultraviolet light in a desired amount for a desired time; A transfer film having a substrate and a thermoplastic layer that is integrally provided on the lower surface of the substrate and that is fluidized by heat and hardened by cooling, a fourth step of superimposing the resin layer on the transfer base sheet on which the image and varnish have been printed, and applying a desired pressure to the resin layer to destroy the first resin layer in the portion hardened by the ultraviolet irradiation, and to heat the resin layer at a desired temperature to fluidize the thermoplastic material layer; a fifth step of integrating the destroyed first resin layer portion and silicone oil layer portion of the transfer base sheet with the substrate of the transfer film by cooling; A method for manufacturing a transfer sticker, comprising:

2. 2. The method for manufacturing a transfer sticker according to claim 1, wherein the first resin is PVA (polyvinyl alcohol).

3. 2. The method for manufacturing a transfer sticker according to claim 1, wherein the ultraviolet curable ink containing titanium oxide is a UV white ink.

4. 2. The method for manufacturing a transfer sticker according to claim 1, further comprising the step of printing an ultraviolet curable ink containing titanium oxide in a desired shape on the ultraviolet curable ink by a printer device and irradiating the ink with ultraviolet light in a desired amount for a desired period of time, between the first step and the second step.

5. a sheet-like release material; a first resin layer that is releasably provided on the release material and that is cured by irradiation with ultraviolet light; and a silicone oil layer that is provided on the first resin layer and that is capable of adsorbing titanium oxide; an image layer formed on a first portion of the silicone oil layer using an ultraviolet curable ink containing titanium oxide; an image layer formed on the image layer using an ultraviolet curable ink of a desired color; and a varnish layer provided on the silicone oil layer so as to cover the image layer; a transfer film provided on the varnish layer in a peelable manner, and integrating the first resin layer portion and the silicone oil layer portion other than those covered by the varnish layer; The transfer sticker is characterized in that the first portion of the first resin has adhesiveness, and the first resin other than the first portion does not have adhesiveness.

6. 6. The transfer sticker according to claim 5, wherein the first resin is PVA (polyvinyl alcohol).

7. 6. The transfer sticker according to claim 5, wherein the ultraviolet curable ink containing titanium oxide is a UV white ink.

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