Multi-dimensional Artwork via Non-uniform Mask Etching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for producing multi-dimensional artworks lack the ability to effectively create complex, high-resolution patterns and textures using electronic devices, as they struggle with achieving precise control over etching and ink application on substrates.

Innovation Solution

The method involves using a multi-component mask with varying pigment compositions and densities applied to a substrate, followed by etching and subsequent processing steps such as machine polishing, ultraviolet curing, and thermographic treatments to produce intricate, multi-dimensional artworks.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If traditional electronic printing methods are used to produce artworks, then the production process is simple, but the ability to create complex high-resolution patterns and textures is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveetching precisionVSAvoidprocess complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the artwork creation process into multiple sequential steps: applying mask components with varying densities, etching the substrate, applying ink, and adding protective layers. Each step contributes to the final high-resolution pattern, allowing complex textures to be achieved through process segmentation rather than single-step printing

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies mask components to the substrate before etching, creating a pre-defined pattern that guides the subsequent etching process. This preliminary masking action ensures precise control over etched depths and line widths, achieving high manufacturing precision before the actual artwork formation begins

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Shape

If multi-dimensional features are added to artworks through etching and processing, then visual and tactile depth is enhanced, but the difficulty of controlling etched depths and line widths increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-dimensional featuresVSAvoidcontrol over etched depths
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses mask components with spatially varying densities, where different regions of the mask have different ink densities to control the etching depth locally. This allows precise control over etched depths and line widths in different areas of the artwork, creating multi-dimensional features with accurate dimensional control

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent varies the ink density parameter of the mask components to control the etching process. By adjusting the density of ink in different regions of the mask, the etching depth and line width are precisely controlled, enabling creation of multi-dimensional features with accurate geometric parameters

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Manufacturing precision

If multiple processing steps are applied to create intricate patterns, then the detail resolution is improved, but the production time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetail resolutionVSAvoidproduction time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple functions into the mask application step: the mask simultaneously defines the pattern geometry, controls etching depth through density variations, and guides subsequent ink application. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate setup operations, improving productivity while maintaining high detail resolution

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 allows for the creation of artworks with precise control over etched depths, line widths, and textures, enabling the reproduction of detailed images and patterns with enhanced visual and tactile depth.

Implementation Method 1

The substrate may then be exposed to an etching solution or process to produce an etched substrate

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectEtching:

Implementation Method 2

applying ultraviolet light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectUltraviolet curing: Photopolymerisation

Implementation Method 3

applying thermographic plastic, applying heat

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermographic heating: Heating

Data Source

PatentUS9975372B2Multi-dimensional art works and methods
Publication Date: 2018.05.22 SKYLINE ART SURFACES LLC
  • US9975372B2 patent drawing
  • US9975372B2 patent drawing
  • US9975372B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In some embodiments, a method may include selectively applying a mask to a first surface of a substrate. The mask may include one or more components defining a selected pattern and having a non-uniform density. The method may further include etching the first surface of the substrate based on the mask and selectively processing the first surface of the substrate to produce a multi-dimensional artwork.