Multi-Material Pattern Die Form for Security Document Registration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for forming multi-coloured patterns on security documents face challenges in achieving precise register between different materials, leading to inaccuracies and difficulties in producing visually striking and secure optical effects.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a die form with recesses, where multiple curable materials are applied and cured in a controlled manner to ensure precise alignment and registration, allowing for the formation of a single multi-material pattern on a support layer without the need for separate application steps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If separate successive application steps are used to form multi-coloured patterns, then multiple materials can be applied to the substrate, but precise register between the patterns cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple material application steps into a single simultaneous application process. Multiple curable materials are applied at the same time through a shared application mechanism, ensuring that all materials are deposited in perfect register without the alignment errors that occur with sequential application methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a common application mechanism as an intermediary that distributes multiple curable materials simultaneously to the substrate. This intermediary system ensures precise spatial coordination and register accuracy by controlling the deposition of all materials through a unified process rather than separate operations.
2Quantity of substance
If multiple successive pattern application steps are performed, then multi-coloured patterns can be formed, but the process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate pattern application processes into a single integrated process. By applying all curable materials simultaneously in one operation rather than sequentially, the total number of process steps is reduced, simplifying the overall manufacturing process while still achieving multi-coloured patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal application mechanism that can handle multiple different curable materials through a single process setup. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate application systems for each material, reducing device complexity and process overhead.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate application steps are used for different materials, then material selection is flexible, but registration accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the application of different material types into a single synchronized process. By maintaining the flexibility to select various curable materials while applying them simultaneously through a unified mechanism, the system achieves both material versatility and precise pattern alignment without the registration errors inherent in sequential application.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a common application mechanism as an intermediary that coordinates the deposition of diverse curable materials. This intermediary system maintains material selection flexibility while ensuring that all materials are applied with precise spatial relationships, solving the alignment problem that arises when different materials are applied in separate steps.
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 ensures accurate registration of multiple materials, enhancing the visual impact and security of optical effects such as lenticular and moire magnification effects, making it more difficult to counterfeit security documents.
Implementation Method 1
wherein the first and second curable materials are UV curable materials; and wherein the method further comprises UV curing the first and second curable materials
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2(a)~2(b)
Figure 3(a)~3(b)
AI summary
A method of applying a pattern formed of at least two different materials to a pattern support layer is provided. The method comprises the steps of: a) providing a die form, the die form having a surface comprising a plurality of recesses defining the pattern; b) applying a first curable material to the surface of the die form such that said first curable material is received in a first set of the plurality of recesses; and applying a second curable material to the surface of the die form such that said second curable material is received in a second set of the plurality of recesses; c) bringing a pattern support layer in contact with the surface of the die form such that it covers at least some of the first set of the plurality of recesses and at least some of the second set of the plurality of recesses; and d) separating the pattern support layer from the surface of the die form such that the first curable material and second curable material in the covered recesses are removed from said recesses and retained on the pattern support layer in accordance with the pattern; the method further comprising the step of b') curing, at least partly,the first curable material and the second curable material in one or more steps during and/or after step b).