Screen Printing Method for Complex Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional screen printing methods are limited in decorating non-linear, curved, or complexly shaped surfaces, often require disassembly of products, and use bulky machines, and struggle with reliable image transfer without deformation.
Innovation Solution
A screen printing method involving a movable supporting structure with a matrix and adhesive transferring support, allowing ink to be applied and transferred to a target support of any shape or material without deformation, using a flexible paper tape and silicone-coated paper material at room temperature.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional screen printing methods are used with fixed frames and fabrics, then image transfer can be achieved on flat surfaces, but the method cannot decorate non-linear, curved, or complexly shaped surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the supporting structure movable between upper and lower positions, and by using a flexible transferring support that can adapt to complex shapes. The frame can be tilted and adjusted to accommodate non-linear surfaces, transforming a static system into a dynamic one that adapts to various geometries.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the printing system into distinct functional components: a movable supporting structure for the matrix, a separate transferring support with adhesive portions, and an ink application system. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for handling complex shapes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional screen printing machines are used for complex surfaces, then complete coverage can be achieved, but bulky and difficult to install machines are required
Solution Approach 1:
The printing system is divided into separable components that can be assembled and disassembled easily. The supporting structure, matrix, and transferring support can be configured independently, allowing for simple installation and adjustment without requiring bulky fixed machinery.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable supporting structure that can be positioned in upper and lower locations and tilted to various angles provides the adaptability needed for complex surfaces without requiring large, fixed printing presses. This dynamic positioning capability replaces the need for bulky stationary equipment.
3Reliability
If high temperature and pressure are used for image transfer, then complete ink transfer can be achieved, but the process becomes complex and requires specialized equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an adhesive transferring support as an intermediary between the ink and the target surface. This adhesive layer enables image transfer at room temperature by providing the necessary bonding mechanism, eliminating the need for high temperature and pressure treatment chambers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the key parameter of transfer temperature from high temperature (120-180°C) to room temperature by using adhesive portions. This parameter change simplifies the process and eliminates the need for complex thermal control systems and pressurized environments.
4Manufacturing precision
If adhesive portions are applied to transfer ink images, then reliable image transfer without deformation is achieved, but additional steps are required in the process
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive portions are applied in advance to the transferring support before ink transfer. This preliminary action ensures that the adhesive is ready to immediately bond the transferred image, preventing deformation and ensuring precision without requiring additional complex equipment.
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 easy and reliable decoration of complex products and large, non-linear surfaces without disassembly or bulky machines, ensuring precise image transfer without deformation or adhesion issues.
Implementation Method 1
providing a transferring support to transfer the ink reproducing said image from said supporting surface to said target support, said transferring support being provided with at least an adhesive portion; applying said at least one adhesive portion of said transferring support to a region of said supporting surface on which the ink is placed
Data Source
AI summary
A screen printing method for creating an image on a target support by providing a screen printing machine comprising a supporting structure a matrix mounted on the supporting structure, in which an image is defined, and a supporting surface, the matrix being faced to the supporting surface when the supporting structure is arranged in a lower position; placing the supporting structure in the lower position; applying ink on at least a portion of the matrix to enable the ink to move from the matrix to the supporting surface, such as to reproduce the image on at least a portion of the supporting surface; placing the supporting structure in an upper position; providing a transferring support to transfer the ink from the supporting surface to the target support, applying an adhesive portion of the transferring support to a region of the supporting surface on which the ink is placed; removing the transferring support from the supporting surface; and applying the adhesive portion to the target support, to allow the ink reproducing the image to move from the transferring support to the target support.