3D Sticker Rigid Thermoformable Body with Repositionable Adhesive

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing three-dimensional thermoformed structures for promotional and aesthetic applications are limited by their flexibility, which requires anchoring methods like grommets and ropes, and lack support for long-term outdoor use and repositionability, especially when featuring raised or three-dimensional designs.

Innovation Solution

A three-dimensional sticker constructed with a rigid thermoformable plastic layer, a flexible/stretchable ink layer, and a multi-layer adhesive system that includes a repositionable adhesive and a release liner, allowing the sticker to maintain its shape and be repositioned while incorporating electronic components like lights with wireless remote control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a flexible material is used for the banner, then the banner can be rolled up for storage or transport, but the banner must be anchored to the display site by grommets and rope or cord to prevent fluttering in the wind

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverollability for storageVSAvoidanchoring system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the physical parameter of the banner material from flexible to rigid, transforming it from a flexible sheet to a rigid three-dimensional structure. This parameter change eliminates the need for complex anchoring systems while maintaining the ability to be displayed on various surfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs composite materials consisting of a rigid base layer combined with adhesive properties, creating a material that is both structurally sound and easily attachable to surfaces, replacing the need for separate anchoring components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Device complexity

If a rigid material is used for the banner, then grommets and rope or cord are not needed for anchoring, but the banner cannot be easily repositioned or removed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanchoring system simplicityVSAvoidrepositionability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the rigid structural material with adhesive properties into a single integrated component. The rigid three-dimensional structure incorporates adhesive layers that enable easy attachment and removal, combining structural integrity with repositionability in one element.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The adhesive layer acts as an intermediary between the rigid three-dimensional structure and the display surface, allowing for easy attachment and removal without damaging either the structure or the surface, thus enabling repositionability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If adhesive is applied only on the flat portion of the label, then the label can be applied to curved surfaces, but there is no support to help the label maintain its shape when peeled away from the container

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecurved surface compatibilityVSAvoidshape maintenance during removal
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the adhesive application into two distinct regions: a first adhesive region on the flat portion for curved surface compatibility, and a second adhesive region extending under the raised three-dimensional structure for shape support during removal and repositioning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extends the adhesive coverage from a two-dimensional flat surface into the third dimension by applying adhesive underneath the raised three-dimensional structure, providing structural support while maintaining the ability to conform to curved surfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

4Duration of action of stationary object

If the three-dimensional structure lacks support beneath the raised area, then the structure cannot maintain its shape for long-term outdoor use, but adding support reduces repositionability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoutdoor durabilityVSAvoidrepositionability
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of stationary objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses composite materials that provide both structural support and adhesive properties, creating a rigid three-dimensional structure with integrated adhesive layers that enable long-term outdoor durability while maintaining repositionability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The solution provides a rigid, repositionable, and reusable three-dimensional sticker that maintains its shape and supports electronic components, enhancing durability and versatility for both indoor and outdoor applications, including improved adhesion and integration with various surfaces.

Implementation Method 1

A three-dimensional sticker is disclosed that includes a rigid body. In a first embodiment, the body has the following components: a rigid main sheet constructed from a thermoformable plastic layer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermoforming: Thermal Expansion

Data Source

PatentUS10217382B1Three-dimensional sticker with high-resolution image and removable adhesive
Publication Date: 2019.02.26 LONG BRYAN
  • US10217382B1 patent drawing
  • US10217382B1 patent drawing
  • US10217382B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A three-dimensional sticker is disclosed that includes a body. The body has the following components: a rigid main sheet constructed from a thermoformable plastic layer, and a flexible/stretchable ink layer adhered the main sheet. Additionally, the body may employ an adhesive layer comprising a repositionable adhesive adhered to the rigid main sheet and a thermoformable release liner detachably adhered to the adhesive layer. The body is thermoformed into a three-dimensional shape with an anchor region and an elevated region. The anchor region is substantially planar and defines an anchor plane, and the elevated region is outside of the anchor plane. The adhesive layer and release liner may be present in the anchor region and elevated region. Additionally, the three-dimensional sticker may comprise a multi-part construction wherein the parts can be separated from each other for easier transport and installation.