Development of Digital Quasi-embossing Technology with an Inkjet Printer

摘要

Emboss technology utilizing hot-stamping method can produce stereo-printed images with metallic gloss. Conventional emboss method needs an engraved plate and consequently becomes costly especially for a small quantity production. We have developed a new technology with combining UV-curable inkjet printing and hot-stamping processes, where any engraved plates are not used. The new technology called "Quasi-embossing Technology" consists of the following three steps: (1) On the basis of three-dimensional image data, stereo-printed images are formed with a UV-curable inkjet printer, where the print-head accompanying a UV irradiation setup scans several times. (2) A metallic foil which has a hot-stamping adhesive layer is placed on the stereo-printed image with supplying heat and pressure from the back of this foil. (3) After having been cooled, the surplus foil around the stereo-printed images made from UV-curable inkjet ink is removed. Finally three-dimensional products with metallic gross are obtained. This technology is applied to produce various products including conventional emboss printing ones.