Multilayer Articles With Internal Color Image Formation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for forming color images on articles often require surface-based applications, which are susceptible to scratches, stains, and tampering, and lack efficient protection without additional lamination.
Innovation Solution
Multi-layer articles are developed with a thermally activatable composition comprising a non-linear light to heat converter and a color forming compound, allowing for internal color image formation that is resistant to scratches and tampering, using a light source for selective activation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If color images are formed on the surface layer of an article, then the imaging process is simple and direct, but the images are susceptible to scratches, stains, and tampering
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from surface-based (2D) image formation to subsurface (3D) image formation within internal layers of the article. By embedding thermally activatable compositions containing color forming compounds within the bulk material, the image is created in three-dimensional space rather than on the surface, providing inherent protection against scratches and tampering while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through controlled activation processes
2Reliability
If protective layers are added over surface images to prevent damage, then image protection is achieved, but the device complexity increases due to additional lamination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the protective function from separate protective layers and integrates it into the substrate itself by forming images within internal layers. The substrate's own structure serves as the protection mechanism, eliminating the need for additional lamination layers while maintaining image integrity and reducing overall device complexity
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple laser wavelengths are used to activate different layers, then selective activation precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by positioning thermally activatable compositions at different depths within the substrate and using a single laser wavelength that penetrates to varying depths. The selective activation is achieved through spatial distribution and optical penetration characteristics rather than multiple wavelengths, maintaining manufacturing precision while simplifying the laser system
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 solution enables the creation of durable, resistant color images within internal layers, protecting them from external damage without the need for additional lamination, using a single laser for activation across multiple layers, ensuring clear and well-resolved color formation.
Implementation Method 1
The thermally activatable composition comprises a non-linear light to heat converter composition and a color forming compound
Implementation Method 2
The thermally activatable composition is capable of being activated by a light source and comprises a non-linear light to heat converter composition and a color forming compound
Data Source
AI summary
Multi-layer articles capable of forming color images are provided. The articles include a multi-layer construction with at least two layers in which at least one of the layers includes a thermally activatable composition. The thermally activatable composition includes a non-linear light to heat converter composition and a color forming compound. Upon activation with a light source an image forms.