EMBOSSING APPARATUS AND METHODS USING TEXTURE FEATURES DIGITALLY APPLIED TO A WORK ROLL OR SHEET FOR SUBSEQUENT ROLL EMBOSSING

摘要

An embossing method and apparatus utilizes 3D printing by digitally dispensingink jet printing to apply texturing features to a work roll or a sheet that may be fed into a rolling mill to emboss sheet material like aluminum alloy sheet. The printed pattern is highly variable and may be produced quickly and easily allowing low volume embossing. The printed pattern may be removed from a work roll after use to allow the roll to be reused. Alternatively, a sheet receives the printed pattern, is rolled and then the printed material removed from the resultant depression.