Digital Substrate Decoration with Localized Functional Microparticles
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current digital printing methods lack the ability to automatically and effectively modify the physical properties of substrates in specific areas, requiring protective layers for enhanced properties like wear resistance.
Innovation Solution
A procedure and machine for digital decoration that applies solid powder microparticles to ink, synchronizing with a decorative motif to modify physical properties such as optical effects, mechanical resistance, or conductivity, using controlled application and vacuuming to ensure precise adherence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional ink printing is used for digital decoration, then the decoration can be applied to the substrate surface, but the physical properties of the substrate cannot be modified in specific areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different types of microparticles (metallic, magnetic, conductive, wear-resistant) to specific areas of the substrate where physical property modification is needed, while leaving other areas with standard ink decoration. This enables localized modification of properties such as conductivity, magnetism, or wear resistance without affecting the entire substrate.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines traditional ink with various types of microparticles to create composite decorative layers. The ink serves as a binder matrix that holds the microparticles, creating a composite material that provides both decorative appearance and enhanced physical properties in specific areas.
2Strength
If protective layers are applied to critical areas for enhanced wear resistance, then the mechanical resistance is improved, but the automated and effective modification of physical properties is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The printing system automatically determines which areas require enhanced properties based on digital design files, and automatically applies the appropriate microparticles during the printing process. The system self-regulates the application of functional microparticles without requiring separate manual intervention or post-processing steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical and chemical parameters of the printed areas by incorporating microparticles with specific properties (size, material composition, surface characteristics) into the ink formulation, enabling automated modification of wear resistance, conductivity, and other physical properties through controlled parameter variation.
3Manufacturing precision
If microparticles are dosed on gelled or semi-dry ink, then precise adherence is achieved, but the process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ink is partially gelled or dried before microparticle application to create an adhesive surface that ensures precise microparticle adherence. This preliminary preparation of the ink layer provides optimal bonding conditions for the microparticles, ensuring they remain in precise positions without requiring complex post-application fixing mechanisms.
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 rapid, automated modification of substrate properties with enhanced precision and versatility, allowing for tailored decorative and functional effects on various substrates.
Implementation Method 1
said injected ink being a photopolymerizable ink, said machine comprising a UV irradiation source configured for curing said injected ink
Data Source
AI summary
A procedure for digital decoration of a substrate, comprising the application of a property modification pattern, such that, in the areas where the property modification pattern is applied, the physical properties of an ink used for printing the pattern are modified, the physical properties of the substrate or of a possible decorative motif printed on the substrate thereby varying in the areas. This variation depends on the physical properties, the number and the arrangement of microparticles applied to and fixed in the ink. A machine for digital decoration of a substrate wherein the aforementioned procedure is performed is also described.