Laser-Marked Container Surface for High-Visibility Ink-Free Images
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser processing techniques for forming images on containers face challenges in achieving high resolution and productivity, leading to poor visibility and material degradation, particularly with carbon dioxide and infrared wavelength processing, while ultraviolet wavelength processing requires high pulse energy and low frequency, limiting productivity.
Innovation Solution
A container with an image comprising a plurality of dented and non-dented portions, where the visibility value is determined by Mathematical formula (1) (b0·L*0·(1−exp(b1·ΔL*)), enhancing ambient light diffusibility and contrast, allowing high-visibility images without ink application, suitable for cyclic recycling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If carbon dioxide laser processing is used to form images on containers, then images can be formed on container surfaces, but the resolution is poor and visibility is low
Solution Approach 1:
The image is segmented into multiple dented portions rather than forming continuous marks. By dividing the image into discrete dented regions, the patent achieves higher resolution and sharper boundaries, resolving the poor resolution issue of conventional CO2 laser processing while maintaining visibility through the cumulative effect of multiple segments
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the container surface are given different local qualities - dented portions create light-diffusing regions while non-dented portions maintain the original smooth surface. This local differentiation enhances image visibility through contrast in light reflection patterns, solving the visibility problem without requiring high laser energy that would degrade the material
2Manufacturing precision
If ultraviolet laser processing is used to form high-resolution images, then image resolution improves, but productivity decreases due to high pulse energy requirements and low frequency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional approach of using high-energy ultraviolet laser pulses with a different mechanism - using multiple lower-energy dented portions that collectively form the image. This substitution allows the use of lower energy processing while achieving the same or better resolution, thereby enabling higher processing speeds and improved productivity without material degradation
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a single high-energy pulse to form each image point, the patent applies multiple partial actions - numerous low-energy dented portions are formed to collectively create the complete image. This partial action approach distributes the total energy requirement across many small units, allowing faster processing while maintaining high resolution
3Illumination intensity
If high laser energy is used to form visible images, then image visibility improves, but material degradation occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The image formation is segmented into multiple low-energy dented portions rather than using high-energy continuous processing. This segmentation distributes the total energy input across many small units, achieving cumulative visibility enhancement without the localized high energy density that causes material degradation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the typically harmful effect of laser processing (material degradation from high energy) into a beneficial effect by using controlled dented portions. The dented regions create light-diffusing properties that enhance visibility, while the low energy per portion prevents degradation - turning what would be damage into a functional feature
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 containers with improved visibility and productivity, enabling clear display of detailed information without ink, reducing material degradation, and facilitating efficient cyclic recycling.
Implementation Method 1
forming images representing information such as names and ingredients directly on the surfaces of containers using a carbon dioxide laser
Implementation Method 2
forming a dented pattern by irradiating the surface of a resin print plate with laser light and removing the resin from the portions irradiated with the laser light
Implementation Method 3
enhancing ambient light diffusibility and contrast
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a container including a container body and an image on the container body. The image includes a plurality of dented portions and non-dented portions. A visibility value of the image represented by Mathematical formula (1) below is greater than or equal to a predetermined value.Visibility value=b0·L*0·(1−exp(b1·ΔL*)) Mathematical formula (1)In Mathematical formula (1), L*0 represents a luminosity of the image. ΔL* represents a difference between the luminosity of the image and a luminosity of any other portion than the image, b0 represents a positive real number, and b1 represents a negative real number.