Multi-Layer Printed Structure for Dual-Image Display
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printing technologies using fluorescent inks struggle to reveal hidden images effectively under different lighting conditions due to reduced emission efficiency and visibility of underlying CMY inks under UV illumination, leading to incomplete changes between images.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a printed structure with physically separated visible and fluorescent inks, utilizing a color prediction model and spatially varying gamut mapping to optimize ink placement and minimize ghosting artifacts, ensuring strong color appearance under respective illumination conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fluorescent inks are printed onto a surface covered with CMY inks, then the print can display multiple images under different lighting conditions, but the emission efficiency of UV inks is reduced and the CMY inks become visible under UV illumination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the print into multiple layers: a first print layer containing CMY inks and a second print layer containing fluorescent inks. By physically separating the ink types into distinct layers, the fluorescent inks can emit light efficiently without being quenched by the CMY inks, while still allowing the print to display different images under different lighting conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-layer print to a multi-layer print structure. By adding the vertical dimension (layers), the system enables both CMY inks and fluorescent inks to coexist without interfering with each other's optical properties, resolving the contradiction between versatility and energy efficiency.
2Loss of information
If fluorescent inks are printed onto a surface covered with black ink, then hidden images can be revealed, but the output becomes much darker and the color intensity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the black ink layer and the fluorescent ink layer into distinct print layers. This segmentation prevents the black ink from absorbing the UV excitation light and reducing the emission intensity of the fluorescent inks, while still allowing the hidden images to be revealed under UV illumination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a transparent or translucent intermediate layer between the black ink layer and the fluorescent ink layer. This intermediary allows UV light to pass through to excite the fluorescent inks while preventing the black ink from directly contacting and quenching the fluorescent emission, thereby maintaining high emission intensity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If visible inks are printed below fluorescent inks, then multi-image displays are possible, but the RGB UV light is reflected from the CMY inks causing reduced emission efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the print structure into distinct layers with visible inks in the first layer and fluorescent inks in the second layer. This physical separation prevents the CMY inks from reflecting UV light back to the fluorescent inks, eliminating the energy loss while preserving the ability to display different images under different illumination conditions.
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 method enables the creation of prints that reveal hidden content and display multiple images under different lighting conditions with maximized color-changing effects and reduced ghosting artifacts, maintaining high contrast and visual enhancement.
Implementation Method 1
The fluorescent inks are excited when illuminated with specific wavelengths, (most often out of the ultraviolet "UV") spectrum, and may exhibit increased brightness and saturation
Implementation Method 2
the reflection of standard cyan, magenta, yellow, and key (black) "CMYK" or cyan, magenta, and yellow "CMY" inks
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure generally relates to printed structures and methods for generating the same. The printed structure includes a first surface including a first ink type arranged in a first image and a second surface at least partially aligned with at least a portion of the first surface, the second surface including a second type of ink arranged in a second image. The first and second surfaces are physically separated from one another, the first image is visible under a first set of light wavelengths and the second image is visible under a second set of light wavelengths.