UV Ink Curing Sequence for Better Print Adhesion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for applying radiation-curable ink on a recording medium often result in poor adhesion of the ink to the medium, leading to low-quality prints.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the use of two types of UV radiation with different wavelengths and intensities to cure UV-curable ink, where the first type of radiation has a shorter wavelength and higher intensity than the second, applied in a specific sequence and distribution to enhance adhesion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If UV-curable ink is applied onto recording medium using conventional single-wavelength UV radiation, then the curing process is simple, but the adhesion of ink to recording medium is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The curing radiation is segmented into two distinct wavelength components: a first wavelength (e.g., 365 nm) for initial curing and a second wavelength (e.g., 254 nm) for enhanced adhesion. This segmentation allows each wavelength to perform its specific function optimally, with the shorter wavelength providing superior adhesion while the longer wavelength provides adequate curing, thereby resolving the contradiction between adhesion quality and system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the UV spectrum are utilized with different qualities: the first wavelength (longer) provides general curing with lower adhesion, while the second wavelength (shorter) provides enhanced adhesion. This local quality differentiation in the radiation spectrum allows the system to achieve both adequate curing and improved adhesion without requiring a completely complex multi-component system.
2Reliability
If higher intensity UV radiation is used to improve adhesion, then ink adhesion improves, but the risk of over-curing or damage to recording medium increases
Solution Approach 1:
The radiation intensity is segmented across two wavelength bands rather than using a single high-intensity band. The first wavelength (e.g., 365 nm) provides moderate curing intensity, while the second wavelength (e.g., 254 nm) provides enhanced adhesion at controlled intensity. This segmentation prevents any single wavelength from causing over-curing or damage, as each component is optimized for its specific function at appropriate intensity levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the wavelength parameter to achieve different curing characteristics. By switching between first and second wavelengths with different properties, the system can enhance adhesion without proportionally increasing the risk of over-curing. The shorter wavelength provides better adhesion with lower damage risk compared to using a single high-intensity shorter wavelength, as the overall energy distribution is optimized.
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 approach improves the adhesion of the ink to the recording medium, resulting in robust and well-cured prints with improved through-cure and surface curing.
Implementation Method 1
irradiating the UV-curable ink with UV radiation; the UV radiation comprising at least two types of UV radiation, the first type of UV-radiation having a first wavelength and the second type of UV-radiation having a second wavelength
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for applying an image onto a receiving medium, wherein the image is applied onto the recording medium by depositing a UV-curable ink and the ink is irradiated with radiation, wherein the radiation comprises two types of UV radiation. The present invention further relates to a printing apparatus and a software product.