Digital Ink-Jet Optical Interference on Ceramic Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for achieving optical interference effects in ceramics are limited by dependency on enamel composition and firing cycles, and lack compatibility with the digital ink-jet technique, restricting chromatic variety and industrial production.
Innovation Solution
Applying sub-micrometric ink-jet inks with a high refraction index on an aluminosilicate interphase with a low refraction index, followed by thermal treatment, to create optical interference effects independent of enamel composition and firing cycles, using the digital ink-jet technique.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional methods (vapour phase deposition, effect pigments) are used to achieve optical interference effects, then metallic appearance and aesthetic finishes are obtained, but the process complexity increases and compatibility with digital ink-jet technique is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical deposition systems (vapour phase deposition equipment, multi-layer coating apparatus) with a simplified digital ink-jet printing system. The ink-jet technique deposits ceramic pigment suspensions directly onto the substrate, eliminating the need for complex vacuum deposition equipment and multiple coating steps, while achieving the same optical interference effects through controlled pigment layering
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal digital ink-jet based method that can produce multiple optical effects (metallic, interference, iridescent) using a single platform. The same ink-jet system can apply different ceramic pigment combinations to achieve various aesthetic finishes, replacing the need for multiple specialized deposition processes
2Reliability
If previous working and multiple coating steps are used to achieve metallic finishes, then aesthetic value is improved, but productivity decreases and manufacturing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple coating operations into a single digital ink-jet printing step. Instead of requiring separate deposition steps for different metal layers or effect pigments, the system deposits multiple ceramic pigment suspensions in one pass, significantly reducing manufacturing time while maintaining aesthetic quality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent prepares ceramic pigment suspensions in advance with optimized compositions that contain pre-mixed ceramic pigments, binders, and solvents. These pre-formulated inks are ready for direct application via ink-jet, eliminating the need for on-site mixing and preparation of multiple coating materials during the manufacturing process
3Adaptability or versatility
If noble metals and complex formulations are used to achieve interference effects, then chromatic variety is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive noble metals (gold, silver, platinum) with inexpensive ceramic pigments that can be suspended in liquid carriers. These ceramic-based inks provide similar optical interference effects at a fraction of the cost, making the technology economically viable for large-scale production
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite ceramic pigment formulations that combine different ceramic materials (metal oxides, silicates) to achieve diverse chromatic effects. By mixing various ceramic pigments in different ratios within the ink suspension, a wide range of colors and optical effects can be produced from inexpensive raw materials
4Productivity
If digital ink-jet technique is used for decoration, then productivity and ease of operation are improved, but compatibility with optical interference effect formulations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the physical and chemical parameters of the ink formulation to ensure compatibility with digital ink-jet technology. The ceramic pigment suspensions are designed with optimized particle size distribution, viscosity, and solvent composition to enable smooth flow through ink-jet nozzles and proper adhesion to substrates, bridging the gap between ink-jet requirements and optical effect requirements
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
This method achieves a wide range of chromatic diversity and enhanced chemical and mechanical resistance, providing greater versatility and stability in optical interference effects on ceramic, glass, and metal surfaces without relying on noble metals.
Implementation Method 1
applying ink-jet inks with a high refraction index on a sub-micrometric laminar interphase with a low refraction index
Implementation Method 2
obtain optical interference effects by means of the digital ink-jet technique
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for obtaining optical interference effects on enamelled or non-enamelled ceramic or glass surfaces or enamelled metallic surfaces by means of the digital ink-jet technique. Said method involves applying "ink-jet effect inks" with a high refraction index on a laminar interphase with a sub-micrometric particle size with a low refraction index. The invention additionally comprises a ceramic, glass or metallic product decorated by means of said method.