Abstract: A system and method is provided for creating a continuous stream of envelopes. Envelopes are constructed in a manner that uses existing presses and manufacturing equipment to create a stream of envelopes that are connected together. The envelopes are created from the joining of two or more layers of materials and can be shaped into various forms. The stream of envelopes may be printed using existing industrial printers in a continuous process. Subsequently, the stream of envelopes can be separated into individual envelopes.

Abstract: A subsurfaced imaged label using a PET thermal transfer ribbon carrier as an overlaminate. A reverse image is printed onto a waste medium. The waste medium and inked reverse image are stripped away. The desired image remains on the PET carrier of the thermal transfer ink ribbon. A pressure sensitive adhesive substrate is laminated onto the carrier on the same side as the ink image. Label stock and another layer of pressure sensitive adhesive is then layered on the ink side of the PET carrier. When the label is applied to a surface the ink image is under the PET carrier and is protected by the PET carrier.

Abstract: An ink stencil having a cross-linked ink layer that provides resistance to the etching process. An ink stencil is printed on-demand using a thermal ribbon doped with UV photo inhibitors. Upon exposure to certain UV wavelengths a cross-linked structure is formed which is stronger than existing ink layers. The stencil can be used multiple times without degredation and to withstand higher power during an etching process.

Abstract: A subsurfaced imaged label using a PET thermal transfer ribbon carrier as an overlaminate. A reverse image is printed onto a waste medium. The waste medium and inked reverse image are stripped away. The desired image remains on the PET carrier of the thermal transfer ink ribbon. A pressure sensitive adhesive substrate is laminated onto the carrier on the same side as the ink image. Label stock and another layer of pressure sensitive adhesive is then layered on the ink side of the PET carrier. When the label is applied to a surface the ink image is under the PET carrier and is protected by the PET carrier.

Abstract: An integral label for composite materials. The label, printed with two layers of ink may be embedded on the surface of the composite material using a heat curable resin. The label that provides good contrast with both light or dark colored composite materials. A light colored ink layer being exposed when used with a dark colored composite and the label being reversed to expose a dark colored ink layer when used with a light colored composite.

Abstract: A unit for on-demand chemical etch. Stencil media is unwound from a stencil unwind hub and passed underneath the thermal print head and printed. The stencil media is a sandwich that is comprised of a porous material married to a pressure-sensitive adhesive coated carrier to supply stiffness and support to the mesh. After the stencil is printed, the carrier is peeled away and is rewound onto a carrier rewind hub, leaving only the printed stencil. This printed stencil is transported underneath the etching electrode, at which time, the electrode actuates downward, sandwiching the printed stencil between the electrode and the target object so that the chemical etching process may be performed. The spent stencil rewinds onto a stencil rewind hub. The stencil printing and etch functions can be provided in a handheld unit. The handheld unit is comprised of an actuating etching head, a print head, a ribbon support system and media support system.