Buffer Layer Mitigates Shock in Printed Matter Die Cutting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for forming open parts in printed layers, such as those used in instrument panels, often result in light leakage and damage due to the thinning of the printed layer during die cutting, which cannot be reliably prevented.

Innovation Solution

A printed matter manufacturing method and device that incorporates a buffer layer with a hardness less than the printed layer to mitigate shock during open part formation, where the buffer layer contacts the printed layer peripherally or on one side, and is formed using a droplet discharge method to reduce material usage and enhance productivity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If the printed layer is thinly formed in the region where the open part is formed, then damage to the printed layer during die cutting is reduced, but light leakage occurs in the thin portion

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedamage resistance of printed layerVSAvoidlight leakage
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A buffer layer is formed on the substrate before forming the printed layer in the open part formation region. This buffer layer absorbs the shock from die cutting beforehand, allowing the printed layer to be formed thinly without direct shock impact, thus preventing both damage and light leakage

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Solution Approach 2:

The buffer layer is formed specifically in the open part formation region where shock absorption is needed, while other regions maintain normal printed layer thickness. This localized approach prevents light leakage only where necessary without affecting other areas

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Strength

If the printed layer is formed thinner than other regions, then damage during punching is suppressed, but damage may not be reliably suppressed depending on material quality and region thickness

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedamage resistance of printed layerVSAvoidreliability of damage suppression
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The buffer layer acts as an intermediary between the die cutting tool and the printed layer. It absorbs and dissipates the shock energy before it reaches the printed layer, providing reliable damage suppression that does not depend on varying printed layer thickness or material quality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The buffer layer is prepared in advance in the open part formation region to cushion the upcoming die cutting shock, ensuring reliable protection regardless of printed layer variations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Reliability

If a buffer layer is formed to mitigate shock, then damage and light leakage are prevented, but material usage and work time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprevention of damage and light leakageVSAvoidmanufacturing efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The buffer layer is formed only in the specific open part formation regions where shock absorption is needed, rather than across the entire substrate. This localized formation reduces both material consumption and processing time while maintaining effective shock protection

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The buffer layer formation is segmented to target only the necessary regions (open part formation regions), separating the shock absorption function from the entire printed matter and focusing resources only where needed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 buffer layer effectively absorbs shock, preventing damage and light leakage, while reducing material usage and work time, thus enhancing manufacturing efficiency and productivity.

Implementation Method 1

forming a buffer layer for mitigating a shock imparted to the printed layer by formation of the open part

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectShock absorption: Damping

Implementation Method 2

the buffer layer deforms to a greater degree than the printed layer, and the shock imparted to the printed layer when the open part is provided can be effectively borne

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDeformation: Deformation

Data Source

PatentUS9139093B2Printed matter manufacturing method, printed matter manufacturing device, and printed matter
Publication Date: 2015.09.22 SEIKO EPSON CORP
  • US9139093B2 patent drawing
  • US9139093B2 patent drawing
  • US9139093B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The printed matter manufacturing method includes the steps of providing a printed layer in a predetermined pattern on a substrate, and providing an open part penetrating through the substrate and the printed layer in an open part formation region. The printed matter manufacturing method has a step of providing a buffer layer for mitigating a shock imparted to the printed layer when the open part is provided, so that the buffer layer contacts the printed layer in at least a portion of a periphery of the open part formation region.