Printer Apparatus Gloss Variation Using Support Layer Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for printing images with varying gloss levels, such as those requiring porous media, face challenges like show-through and incomplete curing due to ink penetration, and often necessitate additional inks and print heads, limiting their applicability and increasing complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the formation of a support layer and a first image portion on a porous recording medium using radiation-curable ink, followed by fixing and then forming a second image portion on top, which is also fixed, to achieve both matt and glossy portions without additional inks or print heads, using UV radiation to prevent ink penetration and ensure proper curing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single image is formed by applying radiation-curable ink and curing it with a single curing strategy, then the printing process is simple, but the gloss level cannot be locally varied
Solution Approach 1:
The printing process is segmented into multiple sequential steps: forming a support layer, forming a first image portion, curing it, then forming a second image portion with different gloss characteristics. This segmentation allows different regions to have different gloss levels while using a single print head and ink system.
Solution Approach 2:
A support layer is formed and cured first before applying the second image portion. This preliminary action creates a foundation that enables subsequent gloss variation without requiring additional ink types or print heads, as the support layer prepares the surface for the next imaging step.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an overcoat is applied using an additional type of ink and print head, then the gloss level can be changed, but the complexity and cost of the printer increases
Solution Approach 1:
The same radiation-curable ink and print head are used for both the support layer and the image portions. The multi-functionality of the single ink system allows it to serve different purposes (support layer formation, matt portion formation, glossy portion formation) without requiring additional specialized inks or print heads.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of changing the ink type, the gloss level is controlled by changing the curing parameters and process conditions. By adjusting curing strategies, exposure times, and environmental conditions during the sequential imaging steps, different gloss levels are achieved using the same ink composition.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the method is applied on porous media, then a broad range of media can be used, but the ink may penetrate into the medium causing show-through and incomplete curing
Solution Approach 1:
A support layer is formed first and cured before applying subsequent image portions on porous media. This preliminary support layer acts as a barrier that prevents ink penetration into the porous medium, ensuring complete curing and preventing show-through while maintaining compatibility with various porous media types.
Solution Approach 2:
The support layer serves as an intermediary layer between the ink and the porous recording medium. This intermediate layer blocks direct ink penetration into the porous substrate while still allowing the imaging process to proceed, thus ensuring reliable curing and preventing defects like show-through.
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 allows for the creation of images with varied gloss levels on a broad range of media, including porous ones, preventing ink penetration and ensuring high-quality, glossy and matt portions without increasing printer complexity or cost.
Implementation Method 1
fixing the ink can be done by irradiating the ink with suitable radiation, for example ultraviolet radiation
Data Source
AI summary
A printer apparatus for recording images having matt portions and glossy portions and a print method for recording images having matt portions and glossy portions onto a porous media are disclosed. The method involves locally applying a support layer and subsequently applying an image portion on top of the support layer.