Laser Glossing Imager for Differential Gloss Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current digital printing technologies for packaging are limited in their ability to print high-quality images on assembled or packed packages at the point of sale, often being costly and producing low-quality results.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a laser glossing imager with high power lasers to selectively expose and alter the surface of printed images on packaging substrates, creating differential gloss images by melting specific portions of the printed image based on variable data, while the substrate remains unaffected.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional digital printing systems (inkjet or xerographic) are used to print on assembled or packed packages, then printing can be performed at point of sale, but the print quality is low and cost is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical printing systems (inkjet or xerographic printers) with a laser-based system. The laser glossing imager uses optical energy to selectively melt marking material, eliminating the need for physical contact or complex printing mechanisms. This substitution enables high-quality printing on three-dimensional assembled packages while reducing operational complexity and cost.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional digital printing systems are used, then printing can be performed on packaged goods, but the cost is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the energy parameter from conventional printing methods to laser energy. The high power laser delivers concentrated optical energy that efficiently melts marking material without requiring expensive printing consumables or complex processing. This parameter change reduces operational costs while maintaining versatility in printing on various packaged goods formats.
3Manufacturing precision
If laser glossing is applied to printed images on packaging, then high-resolution high-contrast differential gloss images are produced, but the process requires precise positioning and alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a feedback system where the positioning system receives position information from a digital front end and automatically adjusts the laser glossing imager or packaging transport to maintain precise alignment. This self-adjusting mechanism eliminates manual positioning requirements while achieving the necessary precision for high-resolution differential gloss imaging.
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 high-resolution, high-contrast differential gloss images to be generated on packaging substrates, enhancing printing quality and flexibility, particularly suitable for variable data printing and on-demand printing applications.
Implementation Method 1
a laser glossing imager configured to expose a portion of a printed image on the package to radiation
Implementation Method 2
whereby a portion of the printed image is melted
Data Source
AI summary
A system for generating a differential gloss image useful for digital printing directly on packaging includes a packaging transport and a laser glossing imager. The packaging transport is configured to position packaging substrate having a printed image to a laser glossing imager. The printed image is formed of toner or ink. The packaging substrate is aligned with respect to the laser glossing imager exposing one or more portions of the printed image to radiation for altering a surface of the one or more portions of the printed image for forming a differential gloss image.