Multi-Layer Coating for Game Cards with UV Curing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for producing articles with multiple layers lack efficiency in achieving improved mechanical properties, graphic adhesion, backside wick protection, and resistance to image ink alteration and migration.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the application of multiple layers of energy-curable oligomer compositions on an article's surface, where each layer is dried and cured, allowing for improved adhesion and protection through cross-linking, using techniques like flexography and UV curing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If existing single-layer coating methods are used, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the mechanical properties and security features (graphic adhesion, backside wick protection, resistance to image ink alteration) are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The coating system is divided into multiple distinct layers (first layer, second layer, third layer), each with specific functional compositions. This segmentation allows each layer to contribute different properties (adhesion, barrier, protection) thereby improving overall mechanical properties and security features while maintaining a manageable manufacturing process through systematic layer-by-layer application
2Reliability
If existing coating methods are used, then the manufacturing process is straightforward, but graphic adhesion and security features are improved
Solution Approach 1:
The coating is segmented into three functional layers where the first layer provides graphic adhesion, the second layer provides barrier properties, and the third layer provides protection. This segmentation ensures reliable graphic adhesion while organizing the complexity into a systematic multi-layer process that can be efficiently manufactured
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite coating compositions with specific oligomers and additives in each layer. The first layer contains adhesion promoters, the second layer contains barrier agents, and the third layer contains protective components. This composite approach ensures reliable graphic adhesion and security features through the synergistic combination of different materials in each layer
3Reliability
If existing coating methods are used, then the manufacturing process is simple, but backside wick protection and resistance to image ink alteration are improved
Solution Approach 1:
The coating system is segmented into multiple layers where the second layer specifically addresses backside wick protection with appropriate barrier compositions, while the third layer provides additional protection against image ink alteration. This segmentation improves reliability of security features while organizing the manufacturing process into a systematic multi-layer approach
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials in the second and third layers with specific functional components designed to provide backside wick protection and resistance to image ink alteration. The composite nature of these layers ensures improved reliability of security features through the coordinated action of different chemical components
4Strength
If multiple layers are applied to improve mechanical properties and security features, then adhesion and protection are improved, but the manufacturing efficiency may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple coating applications and curing steps into an integrated manufacturing process. The first, second, and third layers are applied in sequence with curing steps, merging the functions of adhesion, barrier properties, and protection into a unified multi-layer system. This combining approach improves adhesion and protection while maintaining manufacturing efficiency through process integration
5Reliability
If multiple layers are applied to improve mechanical properties and security features, then adhesion and protection are improved, but the manufacturing time may be increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple coating and curing operations into an efficient integrated process. The first, second, and third layers are applied with intermediate drying steps and final curing, combining the functions of adhesion, barrier properties, and protection against image ink alteration. This integration improves reliability of security features while minimizing manufacturing time through process optimization
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 method enhances graphic adhesion, backside wick protection, and resistance to image ink alteration, resulting in improved mechanical properties and barrier properties, such as reduced opacity and elimination of bleed detecting dye needs.
Implementation Method 1
applying a first composition comprising a first oligomer comprising an energy-curable oligomer to the outer surface 12 of the article (lottery ticket 10) to produce a first layer 14
Implementation Method 2
drying the article produced after step (a)
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein are methods for applying multiple layers of a composition to an article. Also presented are articles produced by the methods described herein. The methods include applying a first composition to the outer surface of a game card to produce a first layer, applying a second composition to the outer surface of the first layer to produce a second layer, applying an ink to the outer surface of the first layer, or the outer surface of the second layer, or both, so as to form an image, and applying a third composition to the outer surface of the second layer to produce a third layer.