Two-Layer Punching Die for Hot Stamping Complex Geometries

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hot stamping dies are inflexible and unable to effectively stamp objects with complex geometries due to their lack of deformability and adaptability.

Innovation Solution

A die comprising a first layer with a hardness less than 50 shore A and a thickness greater than 20 mm, and a second layer with a hardness greater than 50 shore A and a thickness less than 5 mm, allowing for flexibility and heat retention while adapting to complex object shapes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If a typical die with metal base layer and silicone printing layer is used, then heat transfer and pattern definition are improved, but flexibility and adaptability to complex geometries deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepattern definitionVSAvoidadaptability to complex geometries
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the hardness parameter of the base layer from typical metal (very hard) to rubber/elastic material (soft, <50 shore A), which fundamentally alters the die's mechanical properties to enable flexibility while maintaining pattern definition through the harder printing layer

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses a composite structure combining a soft rubber/elastic base layer with a harder printing layer, where each material contributes its specific properties: flexibility from the base layer and pattern definition from the printing layer, creating a synergistic effect

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Adaptability or versatility

If the base layer is made softer to increase flexibility, then adaptability to complex geometries is improved, but structural strength and durability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveflexibilityVSAvoidstructural strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The composite structure allows the soft base layer to provide flexibility while the harder printing layer provides structural strength and durability, with each layer performing its specific function optimally

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The die is segmented into two functional layers with distinct properties: the base layer handles flexibility and adaptation, while the printing layer handles strength and pattern definition, allowing each to be optimized independently

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Use of energy by moving object

If the printing layer is made thinner to reduce heat insulation, then heat transfer efficiency is improved, but pattern integrity and pressure distribution deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveheat transfer efficiencyVSAvoidpattern integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent optimizes the printing layer thickness parameter to a specific range (0.1-5mm) and adjusts its hardness (>50 shore A) to balance heat transfer efficiency with pattern integrity and pressure distribution

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 hot stamping on objects with complex geometries by ensuring pattern integrity and heat distribution, while maintaining flexibility and adaptability.

Implementation Method 1

the first layer, which has a hardness of less than 50 shore A measured according to the ASTM D2240 test method, and which is therefore flexible enough to enable the die to deform in order to adapt to said geometry

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

The die is heated by the heating block and enables a carrier such as a foil, ribbon, etc. to be applied with a certain pressure to the object to be stamped

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal conduction: Conduction (thermal)

Data Source

PatentUS12384143B2Punching die for punching machine
Publication Date: 2025.08.12 ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC
  • US12384143B2 patent drawing
  • US12384143B2 patent drawing
  • US12384143B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A die is provided for printing through a print carrier onto an object in a hot stamping machine. The die comprises a first layer of a first material, hereinafter referred to as the base layer, the hardness of which is less than 50 shore A measured according to ISO 868 or DIN 53505, and the thickness of which is greater than 20 mm. The die includes a second layer of a second material, hereinafter referred to as the printing layer, the hardness of which is greater than 50 shore A measured according to ISO 868 or DIN 53505, and the thickness of which is less than 5 mm. The second layer is intended to be in contact with the print carrier.