Composite image heat transfer with scannable mark
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a system that allows users to access real-time stats and personal information about athletes and sports teams, enabling strong interaction through social media and web tools, particularly for sports-related merchandise like jerseys with embedded scannable marks.
Innovation Solution
A composite image heat transfer with a scannable mark printed using ultraviolet-curable ink is embedded within sports jerseys, allowing users to scan and access information about athletes and teams, and register to follow them on social media, linking jersey numbers and crests to corresponding data stored in a database.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a scannable mark is embedded within a heat transfer on sports jerseys, then users can access real-time stats and information about athletes and teams, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the scannable mark (barcode, QR code, or digital watermark) directly into the heat transfer design itself, merging the informational element with the graphical elements (jersey numbers, team crests, player names). This integration allows the heat transfer to serve dual purposes: visual identification and information access, without requiring separate components or additional manufacturing steps for applying the scannable mark.
Solution Approach 2:
The heat transfer becomes multi-functional by incorporating both the visual design elements (numbers, crests, names) and the scannable mark into a single component. This universal design allows the same heat transfer to provide both aesthetic/identificational value and informational access, eliminating the need for separate informational devices or additional layers.
2Reliability
If ultraviolet-curable ink is used to print the scannable mark, then the mark becomes durable and resistant to fading, but additional curing equipment and process steps are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the printing and curing operations into a single integrated process step. The ultraviolet-curable ink is applied and cured in one continuous operation, eliminating the need for separate printing and curing equipment. This integration leverages existing UV curing infrastructure in the heat transfer manufacturing process, adding durability without significantly increasing system complexity.
3Ease of operation
If the scannable mark is embedded within jersey numbers or team crests, then the design aesthetic is maintained while information access is enabled, but the positioning and integration process becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by placing the scannable mark in specific locations within the heat transfer design where it does not interfere with the overall aesthetic. The mark is strategically positioned within jersey numbers, team crests, or player names, utilizing spaces that are already part of the design. This localized placement ensures both visual appeal and scanability without requiring complex positioning systems.
4Reliability
If multiple layers of heat transfer are used to embed the scannable mark, then the mark becomes more secure and durable, but the application process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the scannable mark into a single-layer heat transfer design, eliminating the need for multiple layers. The mark is printed directly onto the heat transfer substrate along with the visual elements, allowing the entire assembly to be applied in one step. This single-layer approach maintains the security and durability of the embedded mark while significantly improving application speed and reducing process complexity.
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
Enables users to interact with athletes and teams through social media by providing real-time information and enhancing consumer engagement with sports-related products, while ensuring durability and authenticity of the scannable marks.
Implementation Method 1
a scannable mark printed with ultraviolet-curable ink embedded within a heat transfer
Data Source
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AI summary
A composite image heat transfer is disclosed for use on specific merchandising articles, sports jerseys, or other apparel for a specific sport. A scannable mark would be embedded in a heat transfer positioned on a sports jersey, such as a jersey number or a club crest. The scannable mark would be a digital water mark, bar code, or QR code. The scannable mark would be scanned by a user to provide stats, personal information, or other information about the corresponding sports team/club and/or individual athlete. The user can also register the scannable mark and follow the sports team/club and/or athlete on social media. Thus, the composite image heat transfer with embedded scannable mark would link each jersey number with information related to the corresponding player/athlete, and each club crest would be linked to information related to the corresponding club/team. This would enable a strong interaction through social media and other web tools between athletes and/or clubs and fans.