Multiple-Layer Textile Print Structure for Faster Custom Printing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for custom printing on textiles are time-consuming and labor-intensive due to the need for multiple steps in screen printing and silk-screen preparation, which increase costs and time for each custom print job.
Innovation Solution
A multiple layered print structure is created using a combination of digital printing processes, including print layers and an adhesive layer deposited in a pre-set pattern to form the design or image, simplifying the printing process by eliminating the need for silk-screening and reducing the number of steps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If screen printing and silk-screen preparation methods are used for custom printing on textiles, then image quality and design fidelity can be achieved, but the process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical screen printing processes with digital printing technology. The digital printing system uses digital files and computer-controlled print heads to directly deposit ink or dye onto the textile, eliminating the need for physical screens, stencils, and manual alignment processes while maintaining image quality and design fidelity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameters of the printing process by transitioning from analog screen printing to digital printing. This involves changing from manual screen preparation and ink application to computer-controlled digital inkjet or laser deposition, fundamentally altering the process parameters including speed, precision, and labor requirements.
2Manufacturing precision
If screen printing and silk-screen preparation methods are used for custom printing on textiles, then image quality and design fidelity can be achieved, but labor intensity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual screen printing operations with automated digital printing systems. The computer-controlled print heads automatically deposit material according to digital design files, eliminating manual screen preparation, alignment, and ink application tasks that are inherently labor-intensive.
Solution Approach 2:
The digital printing system is self-guiding through computer control, automatically positioning print heads, controlling ink flow, and managing the printing process without requiring manual intervention for each printing operation, thereby reducing labor intensity while maintaining precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple steps in screen printing are used for custom printing on textiles, then design flexibility can be achieved, but process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The digital printing system serves multiple functions within a single integrated platform. It can handle various textile types, print different design complexities, accommodate multiple color schemes, and process diverse file formats all through one digital printing system, eliminating the need for separate processes for different printing requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the complex multi-step mechanical screen printing process with a streamlined digital system. The digital workflow allows design changes to be made simply by updating digital files rather than creating new physical screens, and the computer-controlled system automatically manages all printing parameters, significantly reducing process complexity.
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 faster and more efficient printing of custom designs on textiles by combining digital printing technologies, reducing print time and labor, while maintaining image quality.
Implementation Method 1
an adhesive layer deposited on the print layer(s)
Data Source
AI summary
A multiple layered print structure and apparatus to apply a design or image to fabric or cloth is disclosed. The structure may include one or more print layers printed on a substrate and an adhesive layer deposited on the print layer(s). The one or more print layer(s) and adhesive or resin layer may be deposited on the substrate in a pre-set pattern to form the shape profile for the design or image. The print layer(s) include inks or dyes for printing the print features and/or background color(s) of the image or design. The ink may be combined with a binder material to form the print layer(s). In some embodiments, the process includes the step of printing the multiple layered print structure using a combination of digital printing processes simplify the process for printing a design or image on fabric or cloth.