Dye Sublimation Ink Laminate for Bulk-Free Tagless Garment Labels
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tagless labels and laminates fail to effectively capture the color strengths of digitally printed dye sublimation images and provide a durable, bulk-free application method for garments and soft goods, lacking in durability and requiring additional attachment methods.
Innovation Solution
A digitally printed dye sublimation ink laminate with a polyester substrate, adhesive layer, and optional release layer, applied using heat and pressure to create a durable, detachable label that interacts with the substrate's molecules, allowing for high-temperature wash resistance and thin adhesive for seamless integration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional attachment methods (stitching or tacking) are used for labels, then label attachment is secure, but additional bulk is added to the garment surface
Solution Approach 1:
The label is merged with the garment fabric through direct lamination, eliminating the need for separate attachment methods. The label becomes an integrated part of the fabric surface, providing secure attachment without adding bulk.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment function is extracted from traditional stitching/tacking methods and integrated into the label material itself through heat-activated adhesive layers, allowing the label to attach itself directly to the fabric.
2Manufacturing precision
If dye sublimation printing is used to capture color strengths, then color fidelity is improved, but the process requires heat and pressure activation
Solution Approach 1:
The printing process utilizes controlled changes in temperature and pressure parameters to activate dye sublimation. By precisely controlling these parameters during the lamination process, the patent achieves both high color fidelity and efficient dye transfer to the fabric.
3Strength
If thick adhesive layers are used for label attachment, then adhesion strength is improved, but visible bulk and reduced seamless integration occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs thin film adhesive layers that provide sufficient adhesion strength while remaining visually imperceptible. The adhesive is applied as a thin coating that bonds the label to the fabric without creating visible bulk or compromising the seamless appearance.
4Reliability
If multiple layers are used for durable application, then durability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a composite laminate structure combining multiple functional layers (label layer, adhesive layer, release layer, and fabric layer). Each layer contributes specific properties, and their integration creates a durable, unified structure that withstands washing and wear while maintaining a relatively simple overall construction.
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 a durable, visually appealing, and bulk-free dye sublimation label that maintains color strength and adheres seamlessly to garments, enhancing durability and appearance while eliminating the need for stitching or tacking.
Implementation Method 1
The dye from the ink layer sublimates into a material layer such as a polyester interacting with the molecules of the polyester layer
Implementation Method 2
applied using heat and pressure to create a durable, detachable label
Implementation Method 3
An adhesive layer is adhered to the back face of the substrate or material layer
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
A laminate that possesses dye sublimation properties, particularly for use as tagless labels and embellishments for garments, apparel, fabric items and so forth such as sportswear fabrics, clothing and accessories is provided. The laminate includes a dye sublimation ink layer that overlies a substrate in which the dye sublimation ink interacts with the substrate's chemical make-up.