Decorative Surface Manipulation Agent Removal via Curing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for producing decorative surfaces struggle with the reliable and complete removal of temporarily applied manipulation agents, especially when they have bonded to the layer, and lack efficient partial removal techniques at specific locations.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the application of a manipulation agent to a partially liquid layer on a workpiece, followed by partial hardening and mechanical or non-contact removal using a device with a contact element, such as a brush or grinding element, which can be cleaned to prevent clogging, and optionally using fluid streams or radiation to aid in detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the manipulation agent is applied to the liquid layer and bonded to it, then the decorative surface structure can be created, but the manipulation agent cannot be reliably and completely removed
Solution Approach 1:
The layer is cured before the manipulation agent is removed, transforming the layer from liquid to solid state. This preliminary curing action enables the manipulation agent to be removed from a solidified layer rather than from liquid, allowing for complete and reliable removal without residue
Solution Approach 2:
The viscosity of the layer is changed by curing it before manipulation agent removal. This parameter change from liquid to solid state enables the manipulation agent to be effectively removed without leaving residues on the decorative surface
2Manufacturing precision
If the manipulation agent is removed after bonding to the layer, then the decorative surface is revealed, but residues of the manipulation agent remain on the layer
Solution Approach 1:
The layer is cured before manipulation agent removal, creating a solidified structure that allows complete agent removal. This preliminary curing prevents manipulation agent residues from remaining on the decorative surface after removal
3Productivity
If mechanical removal using a contact element is used, then parts of the layer and manipulation agent can be removed, but the contact element becomes clogged
Solution Approach 1:
The viscosity of the layer is changed by curing it before manipulation agent removal. This parameter change enables effective removal while preventing the contact element from becoming clogged with removed material
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces purely mechanical removal with a combination of curing (chemical/physical process) followed by removal. This substitution prevents clogging by ensuring the layer is properly prepared before mechanical contact
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 reliable and partial removal of the manipulation agent and layer material, ensuring complete or partial removal without residue, suitable for industrial-scale decorative surface production, including sensitive surfaces like floor coverings.
Implementation Method 1
the manipulation agent has the property of at least partially absorbing electromagnetic radiation. Upon irradiation of the liquid layer, for example with an excimer laser, polymerization occurs on the surface of the liquid layer, causing micro-folding there, which later results in a matte surface. The manipulation agent on the surface of the liquid layer at least partially absorbs the radiation, so that polymerization takes place less intensively there.
Implementation Method 2
Upon irradiation of the liquid layer, for example with an excimer laser, polymerization occurs on the surface of the liquid layer
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for producing a decorative surface is disclosed, wherein a manipulation agent applied to the surface is removed from it mechanically and/or without contact. Furthermore, a device for carrying out the method is disclosed.