Local Gloss Adjustment via Variable Ink Swath Volume
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for printing images with radiation curable ink require additional materials and time to adjust glossiness, as they typically involve applying clear ink on top of the printed image for aesthetic purposes.
Innovation Solution
A method that uses a gloss map in the image file to determine ink layer thickness profiles for multiple swaths, allowing for local adjustment of glossiness without additional materials or time, by varying the ink volume in each swath and curing the ink with a UV radiation source.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If clear ink is applied on top of the printed image to adjust glossiness, then the glossiness of the image is improved, but additional material and production time are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by adjusting the ink layer thickness during the initial printing process based on a pre-calculated gloss map. The system determines the desired gloss level for different areas and compensates by varying ink volume in each swath before the image is complete, eliminating the need for subsequent clear ink application.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the printing process into multiple swaths and further segments the ink volume application within each swath based on spatial position. By dividing the image area into regions with different gloss requirements and applying different ink volumes to each region, the system achieves localized gloss control without additional materials.
2Manufacturing precision
If clear ink is applied on top of the printed image to adjust glossiness, then the glossiness of the image is improved, but additional material is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the ink serve multiple functions: it provides both the image content and the gloss control. By varying the ink layer thickness within the normal printing process, the same ink material achieves both pigmentation and surface finish control, eliminating the need for separate clear ink material.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the gloss control function from the separate clear ink application process and integrates it into the main printing process. By removing the need for clear ink as a separate material and instead using the image ink itself with variable thickness, the system eliminates additional material requirements while maintaining gloss control capability.
3Quantity of substance
If multiple swaths with varying ink volumes are used to adjust glossiness, then gloss control is achieved without additional material, but the printing process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by having the printing system automatically calculate and apply the appropriate ink volume for each swath based on the gloss map and desired final gloss levels. The control unit performs the complex calculations and adjustments autonomously, converting the image file with gloss information into appropriate printing instructions without requiring manual intervention or complex external equipment.
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 the local adjustment of glossiness in printed images without the need for additional materials or production time, achieving the desired glossy or matte appearance by controlling ink layer thickness through multiple swaths and UV curing.
Implementation Method 1
whereby the jetted ink is cured
Data Source
AI summary
A method for locally adjusting the glossiness of a printed image includes printing an image onto a recording medium in multiple swaths and locally adjusting the ink volume for each swath. A printer for printing an image onto a recording medium includes a control unit configured to perform the method.