Inkjet Printing Gloss Control via Segmented Ink Channels

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for printing images using radiation-curable ink lack the ability to adjust the gloss level without post-processing, making it difficult to produce prints suitable for various applications on a single printing system, as different applications require different gloss levels.

Innovation Solution

A method that determines the desired gloss level and adjusts the amount of radiation-curable ink comprising a colorant and ink not comprising a colorant to be applied, allowing for the formation of images with variable gloss levels by applying predetermined patterns of ink and curing it with UV radiation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single printing system is used for multiple applications, then device versatility is improved, but the ability to produce different gloss levels deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice versatilityVSAvoidgloss level control

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The inkjet printing system is segmented into multiple independent inkjet channels, each capable of depositing different types of ink (colorless, white, colored). This segmentation allows the single printing system to produce different gloss levels by selectively activating specific channels, thereby resolving the contradiction between device versatility and gloss level control precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the chemical composition parameter of the ink by using different types of inks (colorless, white, colored) in different ratios. By varying the ink composition parameters across multiple channels, the printing system can produce a range of gloss levels from high to low, maintaining both versatility and precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If post-processing with overcoat is applied to adjust gloss, then gloss adjustment capability is improved, but production time and complexity deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvegloss adjustment capabilityVSAvoidproduction time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The gloss adjustment is performed as a preliminary action during the main printing process rather than as a subsequent post-processing step. By incorporating gloss control into the inkjet deposition stage itself through selective ink application, the system eliminates the need for separate overcoat application steps, thereby reducing production time while maintaining gloss adjustment capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The function of gloss adjustment is merged with the main printing process. Instead of separating ink deposition and gloss control into distinct operations, the system combines these functions by using multiple ink channels that simultaneously perform both image formation and gloss control in a single printing pass.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Manufacturing precision

If multiple ink types are applied to control gloss, then gloss control precision is improved, but ink consumption and process complexity deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvegloss control precisionVSAvoidink consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

Different ink types are applied locally to specific regions where gloss control is needed. The system uses spatially selective ink deposition, applying colorless, white, or colored inks only in areas requiring specific gloss levels, rather than uniformly across the entire print. This local quality approach maintains gloss control precision while minimizing overall ink consumption.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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 production of images with gloss levels ranging from high gloss to low gloss, or intermediate levels, efficiently adjusting the visual appearance based on application needs without requiring post-processing, using radiation-curable inkjet technology.

Implementation Method 1

curing the ink by irradiating the ink with suitable radiation, for example ultraviolet radiation

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotopolymerisation: Photopolymerisation

Data Source

PatentEP3822085B1Method for controlling gloss in inkjet printing

Publication Date: 2023.06.07 CANON PRODN PRINTING HLDG BV

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AI summary

The present invention relates to a method for applying an image onto a recording medium. Using the method according to the present invention, images may be printed having a predetermined gloss. The method further enables to make prints having local differences in gloss level. The present invention further relates to an ink-jet printing apparatus.