Container Substrate Pattern Segmentation for High-Visibility Markings

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for forming images and figures on containers, such as PET bottles, result in decreased visibility due to the visibility of the image or figure being compromised.

Innovation Solution

A substrate with a first pattern formed by an aggregate of second patterns, where the second patterns are smaller than the first pattern, increasing the diffusive property and contrast of the first pattern.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If a pattern is formed directly on the container surface using laser, then labelless container is achieved and recycling is facilitated, but the visibility of the image or figure decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverecycling facilitationVSAvoidvisibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSIllumination intensity

Solution Approach 1:

The first pattern is segmented into multiple second patterns that are arranged in an aggregate. Each second pattern is a smaller element, and their collective arrangement forms the larger first pattern. This segmentation allows light to interact with multiple small structures rather than a single large pattern, enhancing light diffusion and scattering properties, thereby improving visibility while maintaining the laser-formed labelless container benefits

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies different structural qualities at different scales: the first pattern provides the overall information display, while the second patterns provide local light-diffusing structures. By making the second patterns smaller and arranging them in aggregates, the local optical properties are enhanced to improve visibility without compromising the global function of information display and recycling facilitation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 substrate allows for high-visibility images and figures to be formed on containers, ensuring clear visibility even with large amounts of information.

Implementation Method 1

emitting a laser beam to a substrate to form a first pattern

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser irradiation: Laser

Implementation Method 2

the shape of the substrate has changed due to melting

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMelting: Melting

Implementation Method 3

the shape of the substrate has changed due to evaporation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectEvaporation: Evaporation

Implementation Method 4

the crystallization state of the substrate has changed

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCrystallization: Crystallisation

Data Source

PatentEP4072862B1Substrate, container, product, and production method
Publication Date: 2025.08.13 RICOH CO LTD
  • EP4072862B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4072862B1 patent drawingFigure 2A
  • EP4072862B1 patent drawingFigure 2B

AI summary

A substrate having a first pattern formed on a surface or in an inside of the substrate, or on the surface and in the inside of the substrate, wherein the first pattern is constituted by an aggregate of second patterns.