Embedded Ink Polymeric Component for Scuff-Resistant Graphics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing polymeric components in articles such as footwear often suffer from durability issues with surface-applied graphical images, which can be easily removed due to scuffing, necessitating a method to embed ink within the material for long-lasting designs.
Innovation Solution
A polymeric component with multiple layers, including a barrier layer, where ink is injected at a predetermined depth between the surfaces, ensuring the ink is embedded and not exposed on the surface, using a needle and controller-assisted apparatus to create graphical images within the component.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ink is printed on the surface of the polymeric component, then the graphical image is visible, but the graphical image is easily removed due to scuffing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional surface printing to three-dimensional subsurface embedding by injecting ink at a predetermined depth between the first and second surfaces of the polymeric component. This dimensional change allows the graphical image to be embedded within the material bulk rather than merely on the surface, providing scuff resistance while maintaining visibility through the translucent polymeric component.
2Reliability
If ink is injected deep into the polymeric component, then the graphical image is more durable, but the barrier layer may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by differentiating the properties of different layers: the first layer (outer layer) is designed to receive and embed the ink for durability, while the barrier layer is positioned at a specific depth to maintain fluid impermeability. The ink injection depth is precisely controlled to embed in the first layer without reaching the barrier layer, thus achieving both durability and barrier integrity through localized functional differentiation.
3Illumination intensity
If the polymeric component is made translucent to show the ink, then the graphical image is visible, but the component may be more susceptible to surface damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by moving the graphical image from the two-dimensional surface to the three-dimensional subsurface region. The translucent property of the polymeric component allows light to pass through and reveal the embedded ink, while the subsurface positioning protects the ink from surface scuffing damage. This dimensional relocation simultaneously achieves visibility and protection.
Data Source
AI summary
An article, such as an article of footwear, includes a polymeric component that has a first surface, a second surface, and a thickness between the first surface and the second surface. The article has ink injected into the polymeric component at a predetermined depth from the first surface such that the ink is embedded in the polymeric component at least partially between the first surface and the second surface. The polymeric component includes multiple layers. The ink is embedded in at least one of the layers. An apparatus for establishing a graphical image on a polymeric component includes a support frame, a jig connected to the support frame and configured to hold the polymeric component, and the needle. A method for manufacturing an article includes inserting a needle into a polymeric component, and injecting ink through the needle so that the ink provides a graphical image.