Photo-curable Ink-jet Recording Method for Non-absorptive Media
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ink-jet recording methods face challenges in achieving precise images on non-absorptive media due to chromatic bleeding and unnatural image quality, particularly with conventional inks that require high nozzle density or rapid ejection timing, which are technically difficult and costly to implement.
Innovation Solution
An ink-jet recording method using a photo-curable ink with a hydrophilic backbone and side chains capable of curing upon exposure to actinic rays, combined with controlled ejection timing and conveyance rate, to increase ink dots per unit length without increasing nozzle density or ejection speed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional inks are used on non-absorptive media, then chromatic bleeding occurs and image quality deteriorates, but changing to photo-curable inks requires complex curing components that cause ink dots to rise and produce unnatural glossiness
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the chemical parameters of the ink by using a photo-curable composition with specific components (polymerizable monomer, photopolymerization initiator, and colorant) that can be cured upon UV exposure. This parameter change allows the ink to transition from a liquid state during ejection to a solidified state after curing, preventing chromatic bleeding while maintaining natural image quality
Solution Approach 2:
The ink is designed to be ejected in a liquid state that allows for proper dot formation and spreading on the recording medium, then cured by UV exposure to lock the image in place. This preliminary action of ejecting in a controllable liquid state followed by curing prevents both chromatic bleeding and unnatural glossiness
2Manufacturing precision
If the number of nozzles in the recording head is increased to enhance recording resolution, then image precision improves, but manufacturing cost increases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the physical state and curing properties of the ink to achieve better dot formation and edge definition. The photo-curable mechanism allows for sharper image edges and better resolution without requiring increased nozzle density, as the curing process locks the ink in place before it can spread or bleed
3Productivity
If the ejection timing is accelerated to enhance recording speed, then productivity improves, but technical difficulty increases and manufacturing precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The ink is ejected in a liquid state that allows for proper dot formation at standard ejection speeds, then cured by UV exposure to lock the image in place. This preliminary action of ejecting in a controllable liquid state followed by curing enables both high speed and high precision without the need for accelerated ejection timing
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
Enables precise image recording on non-absorptive media with natural glossiness and improved image quality, reducing chromatic bleeding and enhancing image resolution without the need for increased nozzle density or rapid ejection timing.
Implementation Method 1
a polymeric compound which is comprised of a hydrophilic backbone chain having plural side chains and is capable of curing via the side chains upon exposure to an actinic ray
Data Source
AI summary
An ink-jet recording method which enables recording of precise images by using a photo-curable ink and an ink-jet recording apparatus is disclosed, comprising ejecting an ink from a recording head to form ink dots on a recording medium, and exposing the recording medium to an actinic ray, wherein at least one of the timing of ejecting the ink and the rate of conveying recording medium is controlled so that the number of ink dots per unit length is greater in the sub-scanning direction than in the main scanning direction.