Inkjet Printing Method for Smear-Free Glossy Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional inkjet printing methods using ultraviolet curing inks often result in irregularities on the surface of clear ink layers, leading to uneven glossiness and potential smearing when used as overcoats, as the clear ink may bleed into underlying layers during flattening.
Innovation Solution
The method involves forming a second ink layer quickly on a first ink layer and a third ink layer on the second layer, with the second layer dried rapidly to prevent bleeding and the third layer dried longer to achieve surface flattening, using a solvent-soluble or ultraviolet curing ink for the second layer and a clear ink for the third layer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If clear ink is used as an overcoat and dried over a long period to flatten the surface, then glossiness is improved, but the clear ink may bleed into the underlying color layer, causing image blurring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the overcoat application into multiple sequential steps: first applying a base layer, then applying clear ink in multiple thin layers with intermediate drying periods. This segmentation allows the ink to flatten progressively without excessive bleeding, as each thin layer dries before the next is applied.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary drying treatment to the clear ink layer before final curing. By allowing the ink to dry and flatten partially on the recording medium before ultraviolet irradiation, the surface achieves adequate flatness while preventing excessive bleeding that would occur with prolonged drying.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If clear ink is dried quickly to prevent bleeding into the underlying layer, then image clarity is improved, but surface irregularities remain, reducing glossiness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action by applying clear ink in multiple stages with intermediate drying periods. The first layer is applied and partially dried, then additional clear ink layers are applied and dried sequentially. This periodic application allows controlled flattening at each stage while preventing excessive bleeding, achieving both image clarity and surface glossiness.
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 approach ensures a smear-free and highly glossy printed matter by preventing ink bleeding and achieving adequate surface flatness, enhancing the glossiness of the final product.
Implementation Method 1
drying the discharged second ink to form a second ink layer
Implementation Method 2
drying the discharged third ink to form a third ink layer
Implementation Method 3
irradiate the formed ink layer with ultraviolet light to cure the ink layer
Data Source
AI summary
An inkjet printing method is provided. A smear-free printed matter superior in glossiness can be obtained. The inkjet printing method includes: a second ink layer forming step of discharging a second ink on a first ink layer formed on a recording medium and drying the discharged second ink, and a third ink layer forming step of discharging a third ink on the second ink layer and drying the discharged third ink. A drying time during the second ink layer forming step is shorter than a drying time during the third ink layer forming step.