Abstract: An improved ink-jet printable heat-transfer medium comprising a base substrate having a surface coated with a hot-melt layer and an ink-receptive layer is provided. The ink-receptive layer comprises: i) non-polymeric organic particles that are a reaction product of a diamine and two molecules, each molecule having at least one carboxylic acid group and at least five carbon atoms, ii) thermoplastic polymer particles, and iii) a thermoplastic film-forming binder. The heat-transfer paper can produce printed images having improved color quality, hand, and wash-durability on a variety of fabric materials.

Abstract: A method is provided for imparting images created with an inkjet printer to substrates. In accordance with the method, an image is imparted to an image receiving layer releasably disposed on a carrier sheet. An article can be provided, which is equipped with an adhesive patch on its surface. The image receiving layer is then brought into contact with the adhesive patch and, the carrier sheet is removed, thereby imparting an image to the substrate.

Abstract: The invention is a process for forming a press proof (190) by forming an imaged receiver sheet (140) comprising a first thermoplastic layer (240) and a first support layer (160) by disposing an image (290) with a first density on the first thermoplastic layer (240) by using a laser thermal transfer (220); forming a pre-laminate comprising a second thermoplastic layer (250) and a second support layer (170); laminating the pre-laminate (260) to a medium and removing the second support layer (170) forming a supported pre-laminate (270); laminating the imaged receiver sheet (140) to the supported pre-laminate (270) changing the density of the image to a second density using a temperature that exceeds the glass transition point of the thermoplastic layer (230) and a speed of between 10 and 40 inches per minute forming a supported color proof (310); and removing the first support forming a color proof (300).

Abstract: A pattern carrier for use in transfer pattern printing of textiles comprises paper with an air permeability (Bendtsen-porosity) of more than 500 ml/min and a water absorption corresponding to a Cobb-number of at least 50, said paper being coated with an aqueous dispersion of carboxymethylcellulose containing a non-crystallizing saccharide syrup, preferably in an amount of approximately 30 g of dispersion per m2, whereafter one or more color pattern are printed on said paper, each color pattern comprising a water-soluble or dispersible dye admixed an easily soluble thickening carrier with a temporary binding effect, preferably in form of carboxymethylcellulose. The use of a saccharide syrup, preferably a sorbitol syrup, for the coating renders it possible to use standard-absorbing crude paper as the basis of the pattern carrier, which provides obvious financial and production-related advantages.

Abstract: A dual-sided stamper/imprinter for simultaneously forming magnetic transition patterns in spaced-apart first and second layers of magnetic material by contact printing comprises a mechanically hard, substantially rigid magnetic material having high saturation magnetization and high permeability and including first and second oppositely facing imprinting surfaces, wherein each of the imprinting surfaced has a topographical pattern formed therein comprising a patterned plurality of spaced-apart recesses with a plurality of non-recessed areas therebetween, each topographical pattern corresponding to a magnetic transition pattern to be formed in a respective layer of magnetic material. Also disclosed is a method for manufacturing dual-sided stampers/imprinters.

Abstract: A mold and a pattern transfer method using the same for a nanoprinting technology. The mold can be released from a substrate accurately and easily. The mold, which is used for forming a fine pattern on a substrate using a press machine, comprises a release mechanism.

Abstract: A rotary press to print patterns on support strips includes a drive for driving the support strip lengthwise at a defined speed; a supply for strip material of the patterns to be applied to the strip located laterally to the lengthwise drive and direction of the support strip; a transfer device for transferring the patterns from the strip material to defined locations on the strip; another drive for driving the strip material through the transfer device intermittently with the defined speed of the support strip. Strip material reorientation elements are arranged along the path of the strip material to modify its direction from transverse to the support strip to the same direction thereof and to deliver the support strip material and the support strip to a transfer device where transfer occurs. Various length and speed controls associated with the strip material deliver the same to the transfer section at a selected speed.

Abstract: An apparatus for, and a method of, transferring an image to a substrate. At least one printed, flexible membrane is located adjacent at least one forming fixture having a complementary shape to the substrate surface. The membrane is urged into image transferring contact with the substrate.

Abstract: Disclosed is an image forming method comprising the steps of: providing a print output by a nonsilver photographic color hard copy recording system; providing a protective layer transfer sheet comprising a thermally transferable protective layer having a single or multi-layer structure separably provided on a substrate sheet; putting the print and the protective layer transfer sheet on top of each other and thermally transferring the protective layer onto an image in the print so as to cover at least the printed portion in the print; and separating the substrate sheet from the protective layer transfer sheet.

Abstract: A printing system has an imaging subsystem, an application subsystem, and a decoupler separating the imaging subsystem from the application subsystem. A method of imaging is also provided. In a placing action, an image is placed on a transfer roll in a first environment. In a moving action, the transfer roll is moved to a second environment. In a transferring action, the image is transferred to a media.

Abstract: A method for pad printing a pattern on a textile substrate with a pad printing machine, and fabric and apparel so formed from the textile substrate. The method includes the steps of positioning the textile substrate on the printing area of the pad printing machine, transferring a pattern having at least one color from the cliche of the pad printing machine to a printing pad, and transferring the pattern from the printing pad to the textile substrate.

Abstract: A pattern and method for forming a pattern includes providing a substrate on which a plurality of unit panels and etching object layers on the respective unit panel areas are formed, dividing the substrate into at least two or more areas, providing a cliché on which multiple grooves are formed, filling resist in the grooves, applying the resist filled in the groove of the cliché onto the etching object layer of the substrate by the divided area unit.

Abstract: A golf ball having a mark with a distinct appearance unrealizable by only changing in tint. Ink can be prepared by mixing one or more components which provide luster such as pearl particles, shell particles, mica particles and the like in an ink medium. Therefore, ink can be used for marking the surface of the golf ball by an indirect printing used with a transfer printing film or a direct printing such as a pad printing, a screen printing and the like. The composition of the ink is 5 to 150 parts by weight of the mica, pearl particles and the like. The mica, the pearl particles and the like are employed for flat forms.

Abstract: A ceramic decal assembly containing a ceramic substrate, a layer of adhesive contiguous with the substrate, and a ceramic decal contiguous with the layer of adhesive.

Abstract: A method for verifying an image (210) on a printing plate comprising the steps of: an overlay (310) forming the method consisting of: creating an imaged receiver sheet (140) having an image (210), a first thermal print layer (224), and a support layer; laminating an imageless receiver sheet (160) having a second thermal print layer (228) and a second support layer (170), which is preferably clear with the imaged receiver sheet (140), thereby encapsulating the image (210) between the first thermal print layer (224) and the second thermal print layer (228); removing the first support layer (150); removing the second support layer (170); adhering an overlay (310) to a printing plate having an image (210), using an electrostatic charge; and viewing the overlay (310) against the image (210) on the printing plate for image quality and content.

Abstract: A method for forming an overlay (310); to be used to verify or form a folding die (300), embossing die (330), or rule die (320) comprising the steps of; creating an imaged receiver sheet (140) having an image (210), a first thermal print layer (224), and a support layer, laminating an imageless receiver sheet (160) having a second thermal print layer (228) and a second support layer (170), which is preferably clear with the imaged receiver sheet (140), thereby encapsulating the image (210) between the first thermal print layer (224) and the second thermal print layer (228); removing the first support layer (150); removing the second support layer (170); forming an overlay (310) having an electrostatic charge; to be used to verify or form a folding die (300), embossing die (330), or rule die (320).

Abstract: A method for printing an image onto an object including applying printing ink to a carrier element constructed of a flexible layer-shaped material and in communication with a pressing device having an internal region which can be pressurized with a fluid, positioning the carrier element and the object in contact with one another without substantially increasing the internal pressure of the pressing device and then causing a substantial increase of pressure in the internal region of the pressing device whereby a portion of the carrier element is urged to further extend around the object. The carrier element is stretched at least during the step of applying the printing ink.

Abstract: This invention relates to a hot-stamping device comprising a stamping arm with one end being a free end, a stamping section adapted to apply pressure to a hot-stamping foil positioned at the free end to a value-added medium such as ticket wherein the hot-stamping foil is transferred to the value-added medium. A first cam, in contact with said stamping arm, is used for moving a stamping section to close proximity of the value-added medium. A first drive section driving said first cam and a second cam for bringing pressure-exerting load to bear on the stamping section is used to move to close proximity a value-added medium. A second drive section is used for driving a second cam.

Abstract: A method for attaching a custom logo to a glove is provided. The method utilizes, among other things, a pad printing method to print a custom logo onto a thermoplastic member and adhering the thermoplastic member to a blank glove. The method advantageously allows the customers to attached the logo to the glove away from the manufacturing site, and provides the customers with the flexibility of changing logos to meet changing market demands and to coordinate logos among the customers' various product lines.

Abstract: A bar code forming method, which has the step of: forming the bar code which satisfies the following conditions, by transferring at least one portion of the transfer material onto the resin substrate by heating and pressing the transfer material onto the resin substrate, wherein, when the difference of the height between the concave portion formed on the resin substrate by the heating and pressing, and the convex portion protruding on the periphery of the concave portion, is h, and the distance between the top of the convex portion and the edge of the convex portion side of the concave portion, is d, and h is greater than or equal to 0.01 mm but less than or equal to 0.05 mm, and d is less than 0.1 mm.

Abstract: The present application discloses a film comprising a first layer formed from a first extruded and solidified material and a second layer formed from a second extruded and solidified material. The first material has a lower coefficient of friction when solidified than the second material.

Abstract: The present invention is a puff heat transfer, a puff transfer composition, and a method of applying a puff heat transfer. The puff transfer composition, i.e., ink, is actually loaded with the color. In particular, the transfer composition comprises a puff base material and at least one pigment concentrate. The puff base material is preferably included in an amount of at least about 85% by weight. On the other hand, the pigment concentrate is preferably in a total amount of about 15% by weight or less. The transfer composition is deposited on a transfer sheet to make the heat transfer. The transfer sheet is a substrate that is preferably treated with quillon. By using a substrate sheet that is treated with quillon, the puff of the present invention has an improved, velvet-like feel when the transfer sheet is removed.

Abstract: A method is provided for imparting images created with an inkjet printer to substrates. In accordance with the method, an image is imparted to an image receiving layer releasably disposed on a carrier sheet. An article can be provided, which is equipped with an adhesive patch on its surface. The image receiving layer is then brought into contact with the adhesive patch and, the carrier sheet is removed, thereby imparting an image to the substrate.

Abstract: A liquid pressure transfer printing method for a steering wheel rim of an automobile, using a transfer printing sheet having different patterns or brightness at the left and right sides thereof, is achieved by preparing a transfer printing sheet for a front surface where patterns having a predetermined shape are arranged at all positions corresponding to transfer printing positions on the front surface of the core of the steering wheel rim by using computer graphics so that the patterns can be concurrently transfer-printed at the transfer printing positions, preparing transfer printing sheets for part of a rear surface where patterns of a predetermined shape are independently arranged to correspond to positions of the patterns of a predetermined shape of the transfer printing sheet for the front surface by using computer graphics so that transfer printing can be performed without interference on the rear surface of the core of the steering wheel rim where a steering column attachment portion protrudes, perfor

Abstract: A method is provided for imparting images created with an inkjet printer to foil balloons and other substrates which do not lend themselves well to direct printing. In accordance with the method, an image is imparted to an image receiving layer releasably disposed on a carrier sheet. A foil balloon or other object is provided, which is equipped with an adhesive patch on its surface. The image receiving layer is then brought into contact with the adhesive patch and the carrier sheet is removed, thereby imparting an image to the substrate.

Abstract: The present invention provides an organic solvent composition for wet transferring of a transfer film having improved weather-resistance suitable for external ornaments and a method for wet transferring therewith, which comprises a step of transferring patterns directly to the concave-convex surfaces of objects made of various materials such as steel, aluminum, plastic, ceramic, rubber or glass. The wet transferring method using organic solvent composition of the present invention comprises the steps of: coating the surface of an object with the organic solvent composition; transferring a pattern from a pattern-printed transfer film onto the surface of the object by means of liquid pressure driven by floating the transfer film on water in a water tank and pressing the object whose surface is coated with the organic solvent composition onto the film; and, washing the pattern-printed object with water, and then drying the object in oven.

Abstract: Disclosed is an improved electronic image printing method, which uses a fourfold-laminated sheet B comprising a substrate, a mold-release layer, an adhesive layer and a milk white layer joined on top of each other in the order named, and a triple-laminated sheet A comprising a substrate, a mold-release layer and a resin layer joined on top of each other in the order named, thereby permitting a white letter or pattern to be printed on a piece of colored cloth. The adhesive layer may be selected to be appropriate for sticking fast to the material of which an article to be printed is made.

Abstract: A method of producing a registrable visible image on two or substantially flat articles includes providing substantially flat articles of predetermined shape having at least two edges, providing a sublimation transfer carrier sheet having a predetermined mirror image on an area of said carrier sheet, providing edge templates adjacent the area, each of the edge templates being arranged to abut a corresponding edge of the predetermined shape, placing one of the articles and a sublimation transfer carrier sheet on a a support surface and arranging the area of the carrier sheet such that the mirror substantially covers the predetermined shape with each of the two edges abutting a respective one of the edge templates, allowing sublimation transfer of the image, removing the carrier sheet and the edge templates so as to leave a predetermined visible image within the shape, and repeating the steps with at least one more article which can be arranged in register with the first article.

Abstract: For the application of a removable printing to a container, such as a plastic crate, a layer of ink, which forms the printing and is provided on one side with a bonding agent for bonding the layer of ink to the container, is transferred to the container from a carrier film to which the layer of ink has been applied to the side not provided with bonding agent. The bonding agent has such properties that in normal conditions of use of the container the layer of ink adheres firmly to the container and in predetermined conditions which differ from the conditions of use the bonding agent and the layer of ink are easy to remove from the container. This produces a container with a high-quality printing, which printing is easy to replace with another printing.

Abstract: For the application of a removable printing to a container, such as a plastic crate, a layer of ink, which forms the printing and is provided on one side with a bonding agent for bonding the layer of ink to the container, is transferred to the container from a carrier film to which the layer of ink has been applied to the side not provided with bonding agent. The bonding agent has such properties that in normal conditions of use of the container the layer of ink adheres firmly to the container and in predetermined conditions which differ from the conditions of use the bonding agent and the layer of ink are easy to remove from the container. This produces a container with a high-quality printing, which printing is easy to replace with another printing.

Abstract: The present invention provides an image transfer section of a printer having a control system controlling the operation thereof, as well as a control system and method for controlling the operation of the image transfer section. In particular, the control system and method of the present invention ensures that horizontal and vertical registration of the card and web is attained. The control is adaptive, so as to automatically adjust to differing speeds and gear drives of the independent systems. The control system of the present invention also automatically adjusts the speed of the web take-up roll and the card drive rollers so as to match the speed of the applicator rollers, thereby eliminating the need for slip clutches in the various systems as well as guaranteeing speed matches between the independent systems.

Abstract: The invention provides a fibre reinforced composite, such as a glass-fibre composite in which one or more layers (4) carry an image or design. The image or is preferably printed onto one or more layers (4) of the composite which are then formed into the article required. By utilising the fibre reinforcement to carry the image or design, it is possible to create articles with complex curved surfaces having an image as part of the structure and without using a foreign layer to carry the image.

Abstract: In a transfer sheet and a method of transferring a figuration to a ceramic product, an ink is provided by mixing a chromophoric pigment for expressing a desired coloration, a vitreous powder and thermoplastic resin. A sheet of paper or plastic film is prepared on which an appropriate figuration is screen printed with the use of the ink to transfer it to an outer surface of a ceramic product. A thermoplastic separable layer is provided between the mount sheet and a pigment layer. The pigment layer is coated with an adhesive layer.

Abstract: The disclosed positioning and securing device for plate-shaped tools (3) for the hot pressure transfer of portions of metallic film webs onto a substrate, comprises a supporting and heating plate (1) for the tools (3), covered by a plurality of apertures (2) adapted to receive securement means for the tools (3). This device includes positioning means for the tools (3) comprising, on the one hand, a template (9) covering the supporting and heating plate (1), provided with first distinctive marks for position each of the tools (3) on said plate (1). The latter itself includes removable positioning and securement means for the template (9). On the other hand, the positioning means includes second markers (12), provided on the upper surface of each of the tools (3), the positions of which correspond to the positions of the respective first marks of said template (9). A method for producing said template (9) is also disclosed.

Abstract: A process for the production of extruded profiles and shaped sheets, variously decorated, especially from aluminium alloy to be used in the building field, for domestic appliances and the like, comprising the steps of preliminary preparation of the surfaces of the article (1), the application of preliminary painting cycles or other surface treatments, the wrapping of the article with a transfer support (2) carrying the decorations wished, the covering of the part so wrapped within a membrane (5) of rubber or the like and the creation of vacuum through holes (6) between the membrane and the piece covered by the same, on prior interposition of means (3) suitable to ensure the flow and the exhaust of the air so as to cause the adhesion of the support to the shape of the article, as well as the possible interposition of yielding means (4), suitable to equalize the pressure exercised by the membrane and lastly the heating for the transfer of the pattern and the polymerization of the colors.

Abstract: Processes for attaching colors and prints to stainless steel product in the present invention comprises actions of: (1) roughening surface with an abrasive paper, (2) cleaning with water, (3) applying priming paint to the stainless steel, (4) hanging the stainless steel on a support, (5) placing a film with colors and prints thereon on water, (6) contacting the stainless steel with the film, (7) washing with cleaning water, (8) drying; and (9) applying gold lacquer in order for the stainless steel to have a shining surface.

Abstract: Transferring a sublimation ink image to the surface of an object by forming a plurality of conically shaped objects from a master cast. Coating the objects with an organic polymer. Casting a heat transfer block to match a portion of the exterior surface of then object. Printing an image with a sublimation ink onto a release paper. Manipulating the image to accommodate the configuration of the objects. Placing the image on one the objects and introducing heat and pressure to the image and the release paper through said block to effect the transfer of the image to the object.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for making color filters for liquid crystal display panels. A transfer layer is formed on a collector roll, and a raised pattern corresponding to the desired black matrix pattern is formed on the transfer layer by an embossing means. A plurality of colored ink patterns is formed in the appropriate location within the boundaries formed by the raised pattern, thereby forming the multicolor image that will become the color filter. This multicolored image is then transferred to the substrate. Preferably, the multicolored ink pattern is deposited to a substrate while in a deformable state, flattened during the deposition process, and the deformed, more uniform shape of the printed cells is thereafter retained, preferably by curing during deposition to the substrate.

Abstract: A process for coating and transfer printing sheet metal which is especially suited for manufacture into three-dimensional articles such as appliance panels and one-piece pictures and frames. The coatings may include a thin pigmented base coat and a clear, thin top coat. A decorative image is transfer printed in the clear top coat.

Abstract: A method for making color filters for liquid crystal display panels. A raised pattern corresponding to the desired black matrix pattern is formed on a substrate, e.g., by an embossing means. A plurality of colored ink patterns is formed in the appropriate location within the boundaries formed by the raised pattern, thereby forming the multicolor image that will become the color filter.

Abstract: For applying a decoration to an article, the decoration with a supporting film is arranged on the surface of a liquid in a tank and is extended and/or condensed parallel to the surface according to requirements depending on the shape of the article to be printed. The article is immersed into the liquid in order to transfer the decoration onto the article. For the extending and/or condensing of the decoration on the surface of the liquid, nozzles are arranged below the surface of the liquid and produce flows in the water.

Abstract: A process and a device are described for production of a dial by imprinting a blank with an imprint which enable cost-effective production in very high quality even with small quantities. Data entered via an input device 110 are delivered to a data management device 120, which positions the dial pattern on a printing master defined by the data entered. If a pattern is not stored in memory, a new pattern is requested from a design device 130 and delivered to the data management device 120, which enters the printing master into an output device 140. The output device 140 generates the printing master according to drawing data and outputs it to a printer 200 which creates a prefixed toner image 11 on a carrier sheet 10.

Abstract: A method for transferring an image from a color photograph onto an object having multiple curved surfaces utilizes a backing sheet to protect the object from the heat required for thermal transfer. The object is disposed in a press assembly near the backing sheet so that the image attached to the backing sheet may be aligned with the target surface on the object. Then, the backing sheet is moved toward the target surface so that the image contacts the target surface at a desired position. The backing sheet is further pressed against the object to deform the target surface until it is substantially flat. Heat applied to the backing sheet and the image then causes the pigment contained in the image to be transferred onto the target surface to create a mirror image without damaging the object. When the backing plate is removed, the object will substantially regain its original curvature.

Abstract: Multiple copies of an image including a textural base may be produced using a reproducible process. The process may include preparation of an image by scanning a pre-existing work and/or manipulating a digital representation of an image or electronically generating an image. The digital representation of the image may be created through a scanning process or through a illustrating or painting computer program such as Adobe Illustrator, Paintbrush or Correll Draw. The scanning may be advantageously performed using a Dicomed camera, flat-bed or film scanner or any other suitable method. The digital representation of the scanned or created image may be manipulated using image editing software such as Adobe PhotoShop. The image editor may also create a number of separations. The separations may include a four color image separation and a special relief separation. The special relief separation may include a representation of the Z axis of the image.

Abstract: A transfer rolling process and device for producing banners is disclosed. In the above process, stencil letters or figures made of a transfer sheet are attached to a longitudinal transfer sheet. A banner with a white background is produced by attaching the stencil letters or figures to a white transfer sheet, while a banner with a color background is produced by attaching the stencil letters or figures to a transfer sheet of the same color as the background of the banner. The longitudinal transfer sheet is wound onto a torsionless pipe. Thereafter, paper and cloth from respective rolls pass over a heating drum at a speed of 1-3 m/min while overlapping the transfer sheet from the torsionless pipe. The heating drum in the above state is heated to a temperature of 220.degree.-240.degree. C., thus heating and melting the coloring agent of the stencil letters or figures and transferring the letters or figures onto the cloth.

Abstract: A process for a production basis relief decorating of ceramic articles. In place of conventional, manual application of relief features, the process provides for a special technique for screen printing of relief features onto the surface of a transfer decal sheet, typically a decal sheet that has previously been printed with a conventional, two-dimensional primary design. The new process includes a screen printing stencil of unusual thickness, at least 0.015" and up to as much as 0.125", characterized by having unrestricted non-convergent through openings. Ceramic inks are formulated to heavy viscosity, having a characteristic comparable to peanut butter, with a viscosity in excess of one million cps. The ink is flow resistant in character, and is forced through the stencil openings by a slow-moving squeegee. The squeegee action is such as to provide increased dwell time of the ink with the surface of the transfer decal paper, before lifting of the stencil.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods and apparatus useful for making color filters for liquid crystal display panels. A multicolored ink pattern is deposited to a substrate while in a deformable state, flattened during the deposition process, and the deformed, more uniform shape of the printed dot is thereafter retained, preferably by curing during deposition. The transfer layer is preferably formed on a collector roll. A plurality of colored ink patterns is then transferred to the collector roll, preferably from a single pattern roll having multiple patterns thereon, to form the multicolor image that will become the color filter. This multicolored image is then transferred to the substrate.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods and apparatus useful for making color filters for liquid crystal display panels. A multicolored ink pattern is deposited to a substrate while in a deformable state, flattened during the deposition process, and the deformed, more uniform shape of the printed dot is thereafter retained, preferably by curing during deposition. The transfer layer is preferably formed on a collector roll. A plurality of colored ink patterns is then transferred to the collector roll, preferably from a single pattern roll having multiple patterns thereon, to form the multicolor image that will become the color filter. This multicolored image is then transferred to the substrate.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for making contoured planarizing or protective layers for color filters for liquid crystal display panels. A transfer layer is formed on a collector device having a contoured surface. A plurality of colored ink patterns is formed on the transfer layer thereby forming the multicolor image that will become the color filter. This multicolored image is then transferred to the substrate so that the transfer layer in effect becomes a top protective layer or planarizing layer. The contoured surface on the collector device is imparted to the planarizing layer.

Abstract: A color filter for an AMLCD panel has a pattern of multi-color dots, each dot having red, green, and blue components in a black matrix. Each component is the cured product of a color pigment dispersed in a radiation-curable ink. The ink may be an ink curable by a cationic mechanism, a free-radical ink, or a hybrid, free-radical/cationic ink. The filter is produced by successively applying patterns of colored inks to a transfer roll, collecting the patterns on a collector roll to form an array of multi-color dots that is transferred to the substrate, and irradiating the array of dots to at least partially cure the inks.