Random Relief Matrix for Seamless Coating Imprinting

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for printing relief patterns on coatings, such as those on walls or floors, face challenges in achieving clear aesthetic rendering and avoiding visible connections between treatment zones, often requiring precise positioning of matrices.

Innovation Solution

A matrix with a random relief surface formed by interpenetrating unit elements, allowing for seamless overlapping without visible connections, which can be applied to coatings on buildings or prefabricated elements, ensuring legible and aesthetically pleasing patterns without the need for positioning marks.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a matrix with regular relief patterns is used for printing on coating, then the decorative function is achieved, but visible connections appear between adjacent treatment zones when matrices are positioned next to each other

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevisual consistencyVSAvoidpositioning precision
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies asymmetry by using a random relief pattern instead of a regular, symmetric pattern. The relief is formed by randomly distributed spherical or polyhedral elements that create an asymmetric, non-repeating surface structure. This randomness ensures that when multiple matrix sections are applied adjacent to each other, the patterns do not align to create visible connections, thereby achieving visual consistency without requiring precise positioning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

2Strength

If a rigid matrix is used for printing relief on coating, then the structural stability is maintained, but air pockets form between the matrix and the coating surface

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvematrix stabilityVSAvoidair pockets
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a flexible matrix made of elastomeric material that can conform to the coating surface. The flexibility allows the matrix to adapt to surface irregularities and eliminate air pockets between the matrix and the coating, while the elastomeric material provides sufficient structural stability for the printing process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

3Reliability

If a detailed relief pattern is printed on coating, then the aesthetic rendering is improved, but the printing process becomes more complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaesthetic qualityVSAvoidprinting process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the relief pattern into multiple independent spherical or polyhedral elements distributed randomly across the matrix surface. This segmentation allows the complex aesthetic effect to be achieved through simple, repetitive elemental forms rather than intricate continuous patterns, simplifying the manufacturing of the matrix while maintaining high aesthetic quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP3509871B1Matrix for imprinting a raised pattern on a coating
Publication Date: 2021.08.18 SAINT-GOBAIN WEBER SA
  • EP3509871B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP3509871B1 patent drawingFigure 4~6
  • EP3509871B1 patent drawingFigure 7~9

AI summary

The invention relates to a matrix (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) for imprinting a raised pattern on a coating (E), in particular a coating applied to a wall, floor or ceiling, comprising a surface (10) provided with a random raised pattern (12) to be imprinted, consisting of a set of interpenetrating unitary elements (A, B, C).