Ink composition, ink jet recording method using same, and method for producing printed matter
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for forming undercoat layers and ultraviolet-curable films on leather substrates are inefficient, leading to lowered working efficiency and designability, with ultraviolet-curable films being less flexible and difficult to apply in practical use.
Innovation Solution
An ink composition comprising a coloring material, a resin, and a specific organic solvent, represented by the general formula R1—(OR2)n—O—R3, which is used without water, providing higher abrasion resistance and flexibility, and can be applied using an ink jet method to form a clearer image on leather substrates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an undercoat layer is formed on the leather substrate, then the ink film can be applied, but the working efficiency is lowered and the texture of the leather substrate is changed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the undercoat layer from the printing process by formulating an ink composition that can be directly applied to the leather substrate. The ink contains a specific resin component that provides sufficient adhesion and film formation properties without requiring a separate undercoat layer, thereby eliminating an unnecessary process step.
Solution Approach 2:
The ink composition is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides coloring, adhesion, and film formation properties that were previously requiring separate undercoat and topcoat layers. The resin component in the ink serves both as a binder and as a film-forming agent, consolidating multiple functions into a single application.
2Reliability
If two types of ultraviolet curable films with different hardness are formed, then abrasion resistance and flexibility are improved, but the working efficiency is lowered due to multiple process steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of multiple cured films with different hardness properties into a single ink composition. The resin component is formulated to provide both the hardness for abrasion resistance and the flexibility needed for leather substrates, eliminating the need to form separate layers with different mechanical properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The ink composition uses a composite resin system that integrates multiple functional properties into a single material. The resin blend provides both the rigidity needed for wear resistance and the elasticity required for flexibility, achieving the performance of multiple separate films through material composition rather than layered structure.
3Reliability
If ultraviolet curable film is applied, then surface decoration is achieved, but the flexibility is insufficient and practical application is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the chemical composition parameters of the ink, specifically using a resin with controlled molecular weight and functional groups that provide both decorative quality and flexibility. By adjusting the resin's molecular structure and composition ratios, the ink film achieves the desired balance between surface decoration appearance and mechanical flexibility for practical leather applications.
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 ink composition enhances abrasion resistance and flexibility of the ink film, allowing for clearer images on leather substrates without the need for an undercoat layer, thereby improving productivity and maintaining the texture of the leather substrate.
Implementation Method 1
an ink composition including a coloring material, a resin, an organic solvent, and no water
Implementation Method 2
the ink composition is discharged onto a surface of the leather substrate by an ink jet method
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is an ink composition to be used on a leather substrate, wherein the ink composition is capable of forming an ink film having more abrasion resistance and flexibility and forming a clearer image. An ink composition to be used on a leather substrate that contains at least a coloring material, a resin, and an organic solvent, does not contain water, and the organic solvent contains a solvent represented by general formula (1).R1—(OR2)n—O—R3 (1)n: integer of from 1 to 4, R1: C1-8 optionally branched alkyl group, R2: C1-4 optionally branched alkylene group, R3: hydrogen or C1-4 optionally branched alkyl group.