Abstract: A method and apparatus for screen printing a converted digitalized image onto a hard surface, such as glass or a mirror. The apparatus includes a source for providing a conventional digitalized image, such as a digital scanner, digital camera or CD-ROM. A computer-assisted enhancer is connected to the digitalized image source and adapted to select the size and shape of the halftones comprising the digitalized image as a function of a preselected screen size for screen printing and to provide a converted digitalized image. In the preferred embodiment, the ratio of the mesh size to screen frequency (lpi) is about 3. A dry film printer prints the converted digitalized image onto a transparent film which is used to prepare the screens for printing. In the preferred embodiment, the screen printing inks are selected from the group consisting of UV-cured, air-cured epoxy, and heat-cured lacquer for screen printing the converted digitalized image onto the hard surface.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
November 25, 1996
Date of Patent:
July 27, 1999
Assignee:
Finch Industries, Incorporated
Inventors:
Raymond T. Wheatley, Jr., Brian J. Pendry