JPH04501688A - plastic products for images - Google Patents

Abstract

A method of providing an image on an article including at least a first plastics layer (21). The method comprises transferring portions of at least one diffusible dye (22) on to the first plastics layer (21), the portions being selected so as to generate a representation of the image on the layer. The or each dye (22) is then caused to diffuse in to and partially remain in the first layer (21) and at least to mark and preferably diffuse in to a second layer (20) in contact with the first layer.

Description

[Detailed description of the invention] plastic products for images The invention relates to plastic-containing materials, such as those used in security products, for example. Regarding providing an image of quality.

Multilayer plastic-containing products are used in a variety of fields, but one in particular Important applications are in the secure product area, e.g. identity cards, credit cards, Jersey cards, etc. Such multilayer plastic-containing structures are suitable for passport plastic film, identification cards, driver's licenses, commuter passes, etc. It is also used to protect photos of people. Product security cannot be tampered with without permission. This will increase if a composite product that cannot be manufactured is manufactured. Security protection software of a general nature The components are generally contained on the inaccessible inner layer. Identification or personalization is usually separate by including a photograph or signature on each item, or by embossed with a symbol. Therefore, it can be added.

The term personalization refers to adding features to a security product that serve to identify the owner of the product. It means to do something. These include black and white and color photographs, identification numbers, signatures, This includes fingerprints, etc.

You can also add account information, including the account holder's name, account number, etc. other circumstances Information, such as the product's serial number and expiration date, may also be provided. current photo is usually adhered to the security printed surface and then covered with a PVC top transparent film or is laminated in place by the placement of other plastic layers.

As an alternative to card personalization, cards can be used for other purposes to a similar extent. be unique, e.g. to a vehicle, e.g. by being associated with a certain purpose; Can be done. The power code allows services to be grouped together without the need to identify group members. For example, regular airline boarding buses may also be unique in order to allow people to use them. can. The term ``unique image'' therefore refers to individuals as well as other forms of individuation. Includes a personalized image with the following characteristics:

In some instances, only one batch of curd is produced and then stocked before pouring. By applying the image immediately after taking the batch from the You will need to enable it. Batch members receive a unique image You can also do that.

Images unique by their nature, as a certain stage or final manufacturing stage. It is necessary to be able to apply and change images quickly. electronic seal The printing means includes alphanumeric and graphical image information that can be easily changed. It is particularly suitable for this purpose.

It is already known to add electronic images to secure products. however , known printing methods such as thermal printing can wear away from the outer surface of the identification card. It gives a pale color image with the major drawback of

Modern cash, charge, and credit card manufacturing relies on PVC increasingly concentrated on the use of

The appeal of PVC is that it is inexpensive, embossable and fuse laminated.

PVC cards are therefore important as commercial products. Embossed properties are credited and Make sure your charge card slip is reliable and printed accurately with the information below during processing. required to include the cardholder's details and account number so that the

The ability to produce sufficient images on PVC is therefore a commercially important liability. I have a responsibility.

Certain electronic image forms can be sublimated or transferred onto a plastic receiving layer. allows the use of dyes that can be used.

However, plastics have been found to have different sublimation dye acceptance efficiencies. ing. The acceptance efficiency for synthetic fibers is i.e. from nylon to polyester. , reduced to acrylic, acetate, and polyvinyl acetate. Unfortunately, PVC is a substrate with insufficient receptivity to sublimable dyes. ing.

WO-A-8403257 describes a method for printing colored designs on polymer surfaces. The method is described. However, this requires many different designs. and each should be printed only once, as in personalized data. In some places, it's not appropriate.

US-A-4738949 describes a dye transfer method for imparting an image onto a substrate. It is listed. However, this method can only obtain a faint image. Scratches can cause the transfer sheet to stick to the substrate, producing an unacceptable image. There is also the problem of ゛'s C3, and I am very satisfied with it. This patent also covers 1, serichlorination. Manufactured from beer and its copolymers or 8f blends; i7H laminate Not about it.

Mouth E-A-2413494 is a heat transfer device for transferring dyes, especially to PVC sheets. Describes how to take pictures. However, 1. ; these also have various problems.

1, ISA-4507349, the barrier layer has a dye transferred onto the substrate. Imaging of security products given λ to prevent diffusion to other layers Description (7)

εP-A-97493 allows colorless dyes to form complexes. A method of forming a color that diffuses into a solid receiving layer is described. .

Commercially available receiving sheets for thermal transfer printers often do not have a release layer. It should also be noted that due to the presence of coatings and 5, such an acceptance sea = 1- often has a complex structure 3 , according to the invention, an image display on the donor comprising at least a first plastic layer. Selected to increase the 5; soj7, in the 4 eyebrows, 7 is dyed in the first layer. Diffusion and partial (apply) at least the second layer that is in contact with the first layer. This includes L.

The presence of dyes in plastic layers, especially for multilayer products containing certain brands of PVC2. 1. Contoir into at least the first layer. ＝fold: make, −j J, at least the second layer, 7-, -4. :, 'g. -0 and itm,, ;One "y7 suitable color (Habaka j, 19 clay has improved security, It was found that it is possible to obtain good images of the product.

Typically, the diffusion process involves subjecting the product to heat (and optionally pressure) for a predetermined period of time. ). In one example, the image is made of transparent plastic. The diffusion can be applied to the underside of the film, applying pressure to the filter and heat v 7-color is applied, then the filtrate is applied to the second layer, and then the dye is mapped onto it. - I like it (7-, '-i, 7 causes 1, which diffuses into 7) This is then glued onto the paper page on which the security seal of your passport is printed. Fill! , - A passport that can give L an image of the wearer. At least partial diffusion of the dye occurs through the lamination process. this eliminates the need for adhesives to obtain extremely safe composite materials. of different characteristics Avoiding laminating ingredients is 7. This means that the contact surface has high adhesive strength.

Chemically remove the second layer and the two-part laminated film by force, and the grade will not peel off. It's not easily possible. However, adhesive lamination is also possible.

Adhesion is achieved by using a repellent dye and then dispersing it into the plastic. "image plane" - i.e., the image plane, as in many security articles of this type. Plastic-interplastic contact is different from plastic snack-plus-1- This adhesion significantly increases the security of the product as ivy contact occurs.

Preferably, in the lamination step, the laminate bonded to the pressure plate is cooled. Includes -. This preserves surface gloss and overall flatness. typical The pressure is 300.~6001 bs/in2 (i.e., 21 kPa~41.0 bs/in2). kPa).

Typical fusion temperatures are 130<0>C to 160<0>C. 20-150 bons during lamination of the order of 4 kPa to 10.4 kPa) 1- Use force. Under these conditions, lamination is usually completed within 1 minute.

For example, heat the dye for about 30 seconds at 151T3. -3- Penetrations on the order of C130 microns were obtained, which is due to the transfer of the dye to the receiving layer. It turns out that it can be F minutes.

The characteristics of the new diffusion method are: 1. The dye is contained within the bulk of one layer; 9. At least the adjacent layer Marking gives a high level of protection against unauthorized modification.

The dye diffuses into the first plastic layer, securing a significant degree of penetration. It should be free. The document should be given different dye images on both sides. You can also do it.

Dye diffusion is such that the degree of penetration achieved by the dye is quite similar to that of ordinary thermal transfer dyes (typical Binds primarily on the surface or minimally within the receptive layer, perhaps around 5 microns. 1, the laser needs to be larger than is the case (as intended) Transfer dyes are more deposited on the surface.

In general, dyes for use in the present invention have very high molecular weights that reduce their diffusivity. 2. Because the dye has a low molecular weight, e.g. heat is applied to penetrate the plastic layer. Through diffusion, there is a need to be free. This includes diffusion within poly “7-”. Profit 1. Alternatively, a microporous or or microbubbles may be present.

In all cases, the dyes are significantly chemically combined with polymers, pigments or other additives. should be free to diffuse into the first (and optionally second) layer without association with the It is possible.

Diffusion may occur during the imaging step or may be a separate step. general In this case, heat is applied to a temperature below the softening point of the polymer. Heat, hot air, laser - heated surfaces, preferably impermeable to dyes, by infrared radiation, including Add by touching. - I can do it. Thus, for example, applying a dye A metal plate can be applied to the surface of the first layer, through which heat is transferred by conduction. . Keep in contact with heat and pressure. These conditions apply to the Plus Deck-Plastic bond It would not be necessary to have separate diffusion steps.

For continuous methods, a heated roller with an impermeable metal surface is passed over the substrate. Suitable for causing dye diffusion.

Alternatively, a plastic surface can be in contact with the image surface (plastic is impermeable to dyes).

It is almost impossible to remove the dye from the image-receiving layer. Dyeing from the surface Unauthorized scratching or deletion of the image may occur with normal heat-applied images (image-receiving layer does not allow for the removal of all of the image (not quite diffused in the image). diffusion The image is maintained. This ensures that the laminated receiving film and adhesive surface are secure. The protective print cannot be removed without damaging it. fraudulent image Attempts to place on top of the earliest images are particularly relevant to security print layers. If so, it will be easily shown.

Electronic applied images are usually For security printing, graphic design, line design, lettering, and number design. Includes selections from ins, symbols, dots, patterns and publishing agency abbreviations: Account Information - Includes one or more letter and number symbols, name, address, and number of accounts for the owner. nothing: Product information - Product series number and expiration date of one or more letters and numbers including; and Personalized information - a reproduction of the face, signature, or signature of one or more owners, people, groups, or things; and fingerprints or other personalized information: or Cryptographic markings, e.g. barcodes that can be read on request: Contains at least one of the following.

Images can also include computer-generated design elements.

In one example, the dye is applied to one side of the first layer while the dye is applied to the other side of the first layer. , -J-, i.e., the side that does not carry the transfer dye or dye is then applied to the first . plastic laminated onto the layers, where 4, the first layer allows the dye to diffuse through the first layer and into the second layer. Thin enough. However, in a preferred example the C1 dye is packaged in both layers. The surface of the first layer carrying the transferred dye or dye is partially diffused between 1' and the second layer. Paste it on.

If three dyes are applied, all three dyes have similar or different degrees of Only one dye is present in the first layer or It is necessary to diffuse it to the food receiving layer. Diffusion to different degrees is security protection Add the features of

Markings in the second layer indicate all images present in the first plastic layer For example, where there is a security print, the ink is are marked by the imaging dye only where they are present.

The first layer is generally a self-supporting film, a non-self-supporting film of carrier sheet L, or is any polymeric material of the coating. Coatings can be applied, e.g. plastic film, plastic sheet, plastic laminate, plastic Can be applied to the surface of coated paper laminates or coated papers.

The dye can be applied to a smooth coated paper surface, such as high quality printed paper, such as certain identification cards. It can also be transcribed.

Suitable laminable films to accept dyes include polyvinyl chloride and Contains polycarbonate. Adhering the film to the second layer if desired Can be done. Although the use of adhesives is usually undesirable for security reasons, the use of adhesives is Used to combine many different layers.

Polymeric coatings suitable for receiving diffusible dyes include polyvinyl chloride. Polymers, Copolymers, and Blends 1. Polycarbonate and polyester Contains files. .

For many purposes, dyes are used to provide a monolithic, tamper-proof structure. Diffuse the outermost image-receiving plastic using a “peel-off” system, e.g. Peel off the film, i.e. as a baggage label, while recording on the back sheet. It is also possible to have (eg, an airline ticket). In this case, the plastic layer It should be in close contact with the second layer.

It is important that the dye is compatible with the first layer so that diffusion can occur. one Generally, the dye applied electronically to the receiving sheet has a size of at least 1() micron, preferably preferably at least 20 microns, more preferably at least 25 microns, most preferably at least 25 microns. Preferably heated to a penetration depth of at least 50 microns, e.g. It should be diffused by heating at °C.

Heat (and pressure, if desired) is applied to diffuse the dye into the polymeric receiving layer.

A thermal lamination process is involved, for example, when laminating a film to a plastic card substrate. If the diffusion heat step is Ru.

In a particularly preferred method, the dye on the first layer diffuses into the printed indicia during the lamination process. , and through which the second plastic layer already contains the printed indicia. Ru. This printed mark can be applied to the surface of the second layer or The two layers themselves can be seen on the outside of the second layer, but the print given within the lamination It is possible to create a document that includes pasting together with the information provided. In any case, this is a confidential A futile attempt to falsify the protection (as defined by the dye) replaces the image. 1. At the same time, the printed mark may be destroyed. Printed stamp protects security It is particularly useful in security products where purine I.

Typical setup parameters used are as follows.

Temperature = 100°・~200' Pressure 2 O~800psi (Q-55kPa) Time: 11 minutes By choosing the proper combination of temperature and pressure, a P of 70jJ, rn VC, L layer of -1-ding, 20 microns): 1 inch thick security print layer, and finally diffuse the 1 Noser heat transfer dye through the markings of the underlying layer. 1, the total depth of diffusion in this case is measured to be approximately 52 microns. It was.

Additionally, experiments have shown that penetration depths of 50-100 microns, e.g. Rust Tsuku (20 microns/): Ink (2 microns) Niblastic core (e.g., 30 micron penetration) was measured.

One important application of this method is in the manufacture of security products, where images image of the person carrying the product, such as the image of the person carrying the product, the image of the sign, etc. Identification may be included. However, the word "image" refers to the symbol or symbol in the original. and other types of information, such as series numbers, bar codes, and other machine-readable shall be understood to include symbols and codes.

For security cards that typically include a relatively thick core and a relatively thin cover layer In , the first substrate may be provided by one of the core or cover layers.

In addition to use in financial and identification plastic cards, the invention may suitably Adapted to other security products, e.g. passports, identification cards with plastic surfaces. cards, service entitlement cards, advertising cards, checks, driving licenses, voting cards, It can be used in cards containing integrated circuits, etc.

Thus, for example, a passport usually has a photo of the bearer on the bearer's photo page. Has a protective film. This film usually has security markings. and adhere to the passport pages with heat-activated or cold-seal pressure-sensitive adhesive. Ru. Such films can be electrically imaged by the method according to the invention. can be done. The film is imaged either before or after it is adhered to the passport and then heated to infuse the dye into the film, preferably at least Make sure to diffuse until the layers are reached. If desired, remove the film with a peelable coating. It can also be given to carriers.

A receiving layer may be used in addition to printing on an adhered substrate if printing is feasible. It may have a security layer on either side.

The primary use of this invention is to provide security on secure products since there is no other easy way to do this. Used to print a color photograph of the owner.

Thermal diffusible dyes are used in printers with many individual thermal elements (i.e. thermal imagers). generate a beam beam, e.g. a laser, on a printer with a The receiving layer can be placed on the Murakami by using an electronically driven imager.

In both cases, the dye-donor sheet or carrier is in contact with the image-receiving surface. The laser beam or thermal head element is placed in close contact with the dye spot, and the laser beam or thermal head element Heat transfer onto the surface.

Every image consists of many individually added dots of dye.

For all color images, the method uses yellow, magenta, and cyan dyes. This is done by subsequent transfer.

In this step, which is usually the final step in thermal imaging, the deposited dye is essentially on the receiving surface and does not penetrate more than about 2 microns. By heat transfer, seeds It should be understood that various transfer methods including those known in the art include dye diffusion and dye sublimation. It is possible. However, these transfer methods require that the plate carrying the image as distinguished from printing, which is applied with ink before stamping the mark on the substrate. Should.

Electron laser imaging using Nd:YAG lasers suitable for use in the present invention A scanning device is described in BP-A-202811. This is especially true for Useful for imaging substrates used in bright light.

Thermal printheads for use in thermal transfer printers are manufactured by Mitsubishi, Dainippon, and Fujitsu. Commercially available from Shitsu and TDK.

Such heads are easier to use with less rigid laminating films. Can be adapted. Such heads typically have resolutions of 150 to 300 points per inch. enable.

An electronic imager is an electronic or video camera, charge coupling device, flatbed or rotary A place for computer-generated designs from a scanning needle or from a computer. You can use the image given in the case.

Accordingly, one preferred method according to the present invention includes dye stripping of a dye delivery film. Make good contact between the surface and the first plastic layer and apply the image of the laser line to the dye release layer. The generated beam is applied so that the dye is then applied to the plastic layer in an imagewise manner. the dye is transferred into the plastic layer and an adjacent second layer. is included.

The imaging beam can be continuous, drawn lines or discontinuous, forming individual points. I can do it.

A preferred laser is one that imparts thermal energy to the dye and is suitable for Nd:YAG lasers. The user was found to be adequate.

Another preferred method includes combining the dye release side of the first plastic layer and the dye delivery film. Make good contact and apply the dye release layer to the image-generating pattern of the heat-activated pin and the thermal print head. the dye is then applied to the plastic layer in an imagewise manner. 7 to transfer and diffuse the dye into the plastic layer to a considerable degree of penetration, This includes marking an adjacent second layer.

Other methods of transferring dye onto the first = plus deck layer include: 1) the dye is transferred to the inkjet Inkjet imaging means emitted by a jet to form an image: 2) releasing and introducing a diffusible dye into the composition, which is applied to the first plastic film; an imaging or printing means intended to remain attached to the surface of the For example: a) xerographic toner deposits, toners with release and introduction of diffusible dyes; In this case, the non-diffusible part of the toner remains on the surface, and the dye is transferred to the plastic layer. Diffusion into: b) Magnetically deposited powder incorporating diffusible dyes; 3) Containing diffusible dyes Includes: a drafting pen that deposits ink.

Instead of using thermal conduction under pressure to cause diffusion, the or each dye can include a heat-absorbing dye, where the diffusion step activates the heat-absorbing dye. , including diffusing a diffusible dye. For example, this is an infrared (heat) absorbing dye. This is transferred to the image with a diffusible dye and then exposed to IR radiation (e.g. For example, irradiate 11060n Nd (from a YAG laser or incandescent source) and IR This can be done by applying localized heating to the area where the dye is located. Laser treatment Thermal irradiation can be global or imagewise. All incandescent heating but in both cases heating occurs only where the IR dye is present. Will.

Instead of introducing thermal radiation absorbing compounds, e.g. by absorbing the compound into a compound and heating it so that the plasti The radiation source that heats the adhesive layer can be selected. The use of radiant heat sources requires careful heating conditions. control and localized heating within the layer rather than the conductive source.

The second layer is preferably plastic, but paper vupstick laminate or Can also be surface-treated papers, such as plastic-coated, resin-coated, and highly filled papers This can be done by simply inking or printing onto a smooth surface or the surface of the first layer. It has one layer of lacquer. Paper can be made from natural or synthetic fibers .

In some cases, especially where the second layer is ink, the third layer or is provided with a further (preferably plastic) layer, the second layer being the first and third layer. located between the layers, where the or each dye diffuses into all three or more layers do.

Plastic materials typically include PVC, but may also include other materials such as polyester. Polymers and polycarbonates may also be suitable. suitable for the present invention The rPVCJ used in security cards must be a pure PVC homopolymer. do not have. Small amounts of high molecular weight vinyl acetate may also be present. This is chloride Can be included as a copolymer with vinyl. Including opaque pigments in PVC The top film should usually be transparent, although it can be.

The introduction of approximately 5% by weight of vinyl acetate provides suitable dye diffusion properties and It was found that 10% or more gave unsatisfactory results.

The glass transition temperature of PVC has a higher glass transition temperature which shows better results. In those materials that do, it can also have an effect. Commercially available with intermediate molecular weight The PVC homopolymer improved image quality with the dyes used. high molecular weight PVC homopolymer gives an even improved image.

A first layer of plastic in the form of a film covers all or part of the surfaces to be bonded be able to. Binding can be done before or after imaging.

A plastic polymer coating, such as a PVC coating, is used as a second layer. All or part of the surface can be coated or selectively e.g. Can be applied by lean printing. Plastic coating hardens Depositing a synthetic lacquer and subsequently curing it, e.g. by exposing it to ultraviolet light. It can also be applied by

In this case, the plastic polymer coating adheres directly to the second layer. part Only the surface needs to be coated.

The first and second layers are chemically similar to allow for high bond strength at the bonding surface. It is generally desirable that the material be made of hardened plastic.

The first plastic layer is usually transparent and colorless, but it may be tinted. Good too. Typically, the second plastic layer is opaque and completely passes through the first substrate. You can see the image.

Under some circumstances it is opaque, but viewing the image through a second layer that should be transparent A first layer or two transparent plastic layers that allow the dye to diffuse It would be desirable to use

is specific to the display.

According to a second feature of the invention, the security article comprises two layers in contact and at least The second layer is the first plastic layer containing the image formed by the diffusible dye. and other layers are marked with a diffusible dye.

Some examples of the method according to the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. .

FIG. 1 schematically illustrates an apparatus for carrying out one method according to the invention: Figures 2A and 2B show images colored by two different methods according to the present invention. A schematic cross-sectional view of the security card provided: Figure 3 is an example of a cross-sectional view of an identification card; Figures 4 and 5 respectively FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the product before lamination and after lamination; and FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a three-stage laminated product.

The apparatus shown in FIG. Stock roller 1 provided with material for transparent, laminable PVC tape 11 Consists of. The imaging station includes a roller 3, a thermal print head 4, and It consists of a dye supply module 5. The dye supply module 5 has a material spool 6, one It consists of a pair of guide rollers 7.8 and a take-up spool 9. One dye supply tube The film 10 is initially wound around the material spool 6, and is then wound around the guide roller 7. 8 and sent to the take-up spool 9. Colored dye supply film 10 is conventional and blue (cyan), magenta, and yellow are filmed. Consists of a plastic substrate layer carrying a series of transfer dyes having repeating throughout . An example of a suitable dye delivery film is Hitachi VY-T50A color video printer. There is linter material. For four-color printing, use black dye, blue (cyan), and magenta. It can be transferred in addition to yellow and yellow. For monochrome images , the dye delivery film may have any color.

In operation, a piece of transparent PVC film tape 11 is attached to the imaging station. When reaching version 2, the first dye to be transferred, e.g. yellow, is placed on the take-up spout. By rotating the roller 9, it is conveyed between the thermal head 4 and the roller 3. this is performed by a conventional electronic control unit shown schematically at 12.

This electronic control unit 12 then determines the yellow dye to be applied onto the tape 11. image to the correct position on the tape 11 corresponding to the pixels of the image. The thermal head 4 is operated so as to be photographed. During this process, the tape 11 remains stationary. The cage head 4 moves along the tape (its means are not shown). Once dyed yellow Once the dye has been transferred, the take-up spool 9 is moved together with the thermal head 4 to transfer the next dye, e.g. For example, the magenta color is brought to the line, and the process is repeated. This process is blue The dye is repeated again and the tape 11 is then pulled off the imaging head and cut. and sent to the laminating roller.

The method of operating the thermal head 4 is based on the image to be transferred stored in the storage device 13. It is determined by referring to the digital variables of the page.

The imaged PVC tape 11 is then pulled through the laminating station 14. tension, where this tape is coated with another PVC supplied from the second material spool 18. The tape is fused and laminated between the tape support 17 and a pair of rollers 15,16. this The second support consists of a single layer of plastic or is itself already laminated. Consisting of several layers that are coated or laminated by rollers 15.16 be able to. Fusion lamination is carried out at temperatures ranging from 130 to 160°C, and at about 150°C. This occurs under a pressure of 1 bs/in2 (10,4 kPa). Then this hot, The bonded card is pressed to maintain the surface gloss and overall smoothness of the card. It must be cooled while cooling. The pressure here is about 6001bs/square inch (41 kPa). Following lamination, the laminated tape The tape is then transferred to a cutting station 19 where the tape is cut into individual security products. Supplied.

Of course, some modifications of this device are possible, e.g. The system can consist of three print heads arranged in series. sheet Lamination can also be undertaken.

For security products such as security cards, each It will consist of one or several core layers up to a typical core thickness. each side of the core can be stacked with several relatively thin covering layers, and the combined core and covering layers The total thickness will be approximately 750 micrometers. approximately 100 micrometers It is common to have only one upper layer. For simplicity, only two layers, i.e. By referring to the core layer 20 and the thin transparent covering layer 21, these cards can be A variety of different methods of applying colored images on or into the board are described.

Figure 2: Layer 21 corresponds to the imaged PvC tape, while the laminated support The portion forming the core layer 20 of the carrier is supplied from the second material spool 18, FIG. The results of performing the defined method using the apparatus shown in FIG. to be seen , 22 is applied to the core layer 20 and the covering layer 21 in the lamination step. spread and invaded both. For security products, in terms of dye diffusion into each layer, This makes such cards very difficult to counterfeit (here "counterfeit" refers to illegal modification of the product). In addition, the diffusion has sufficient color gradation. and known transfer techniques use special release layers, which are necessary to prevent sticking. This leads to the production of highly contrasting images. In an alternative way , the image is transferred to the core layer and then transferred to the transparent layer 21 laminated on the core layer. be done.

FIG. 2B shows that layer 21 is attached to the core such that the imaged surface of covering layer 21 is exposed. 2 illustrates a modified version of the structure to FIG. 2, inverted with respect to layer 20. FIG. At the lamination stage , the dye 22 diffuses into or partially through the coating layer 21 and This is marked by diffusing into the core layer 20.

In a preferred example, the surface of the core layer 200 through which the dye is diffused is provided with a security print. Preprinted.

In a typical thermal transfer process as shown in Figure 1, the head temperature is approximately 200°C. , while all pixels in a 3-inch line corresponding to the length of the head ls) is typically about 10 m5, but the time per pixel It is possible to introduce gray scale gradations by varying the range. 3 3 inches by 4 inches (i.e., at a density of 150 pixels per inch for all colors) , 75mm x 100mm) Total time is approximately 2 minutes.

In contrast, laser-induced transfer methods are much faster and have very high vixeration. Achieving densities typically on the order of 1000 pixels/inch enable. Typical temperatures can be up to 300°C, and Bixel's line The exposure time per exposure is approximately 2 ms, and the vixels are exposed continuously. This is it All three colors are printed on an area of 3 inches x 4 inches (i.e. ?5 mm x 100 mm). The total time to visualize the part will be about 12 seconds.

FIG. 3 shows a security plate bonded to a plastic (PVC) core 31 at an interface 33. a plastic (PV[:) layer 30 carrying a lint indicia 32; The stick lamination structure is shown. The thermally transferred diffusible dye is initially deposited on the surface 34. The dye is then diffused by heating into portions 35 of layer 30 and further. Forming an image in the ink of the security printed indicia 36 and in the underlying layer of 37 did. Therefore, it becomes difficult to remove the dye illegally.

This structure would typically serve as an identification card.

FIG. 4 shows a plastic material bearing a security indicia 39 on the surface that has received the diffusible dye 40. A quail 38 is shown.

FIG. 5 shows that the dye is attached to the plastic support 41 at the interface 42 and the plastic is heated. Diffused into stick layers 43 and 44 and through ink 39, FIG. 4 layers are shown.

Figure 6 shows three plastic layers laminated together.

The first layer 46 carrying the security printed indicia 47 is further opaque at the interface 50. It is bonded at an interface 48 to a plastic layer 49 that is bonded to a bright plastic layer 51. . The diffusible dye initially deposited on the surface of 52 diffuses into the matrix and then to apply all three layers and the plastic layer in the blurred area 53 that extends through the ink. color. Different inks printed with 54 can be lowered by absorbing dyes. It is therefore marked as it prevents the diffusion of dye into the layer.

Some examples of methods according to the invention will now be described.

Example 1 650 micron thick white PVC security card support provides background security markings. printed lithographically for display. This PVC support contains a small amount of polyacetic acid Contains vinyl and contains white pigment.

The film of 100 micron thick PVC laminated film is imaged in t reservation. and give a colored picture of the card holder. This is an image of the holder with a color camera. and prepare a set of data according to the red, green, and blue components. This is achieved by This data is then used to create yellow, magenta and blue colors. The dye is imagewise deposited onto the PVC film. This imaging device is a Hitachi model with a thermal head consisting of 150 individual heating elements per inch. It is a thermal printer. Hitachi thermal color transfer for yellow, magenta, and blue A film is used as a dye provider.

The imaged surface of the film was then exposed to the support at 140°C for 75 seconds. It is laminated to a surface with a protective print and cooled under pressure. cooling to cooling The total round trip time is 6-8 minutes.

During heating, the dye flows into the PVC core and into the film itself, at least Diffuses to a depth of 20 microns. Film and support are thus both confidential be fused into.

The depth of diffusion was on the order of 30-80 microns.

Next, the paste is cut out to the size of an ISO financial card, and the deposit information can be embossed. Have them form cards that can be played.

This structure prevents all attempts to alter the electronically applied image and The security print will cause unavoidable damage to others.

If necessary, magnetic and signature strips when making such cards You can add .

Example 2 650 micron thick white PVC security card support provides background security markings. printed lithographically for display. This PVC contains a small amount of polyvinyl acetate. and is pigmented.

A 30 micron thick, high softening point PVC film was machined on the support at 140°C for 75 seconds. Laminated to a surface with a dense protective print.

The total turnaround time from cooling to cooling is within 6-8 minutes.

The film surface of the card blank is then electronically imaged to create a card holder. Give a colored picture of Ruder. This means that the dyes are yellow, magenta, and blue dyes. Place the transfer film in continuous, close contact with the card surface, and BP-A-2028, which transfers dye to form a colored image on the holder as shown in 11 by using a laser imaging device such as that described in This is achieved by the method in Example 1, except that it is transferred to the outer surface of the .

The card is then heated between heated platens at 150°C for 30 seconds to keep the dye private. Diffuse into the film into and across the printed layers. Approximately 30 miku A diffusion depth of 100% was achieved, which is sufficient to ensure that the dye penetrates the protective layer. make it come true.

The spreading conditions are generally arranged sufficiently so that the cards are not distorted too much from the plane.

The laminate is then cut to the size of an ISO metal card and embossed with deposit information. Form an acceptable card.

This structure prevents all attempts to alter the electronically applied image and The security print will cause unavoidable damage to others.

This structure also allows electronic images to be produced in large numbers with minimal further processing. It is very convenient to use because it is applied to blanks. completed card provides a very high level of security.

Example 3 This means that the security print is placed on the back side of the film rather than on the support, i.e. Proceed as in Example 2, except that it is applied to the mating side.

Again this means that the security prism is removed from the outside to a depth of at least 30 microns in 30 seconds. The pigment layer is fully dyed to produce a secure financial card with diffused dye. dye lateral movement is small and does not negatively affect the appearance of the final image. stomach.

Example 4 This is a PVC coating instead of laminating a film to the card. 10.20°30,50. by screen printing. and 100 microns Example 2 is carried out with the exception of applying in a bog. This coating The entire surface of the board was covered. After drying, image the PVC coating as in Example 2. The imaged card was then heated at 150° C. for 30 seconds.

The dye penetrates to a depth of at least 30 microns into the card and provides a secure card. It will be done.

Example 5 A 100 micron thick transparent PVC film is printed for security using standard methods. . The secure printed side of the film was then coated with a 20 micron thick layer of PVC. coated on the dye-receiving side. After drying, this coated film was then prepared as in Example 1. The image is created using a thermal print head like this.

The composite film is then coated with a 750 micron film that retains the security markings on the laminated surface. PVC support at 150° C. for 2-3 minutes. Electronic image of the holder The composite surface that holds the adhesive is used as the lamination surface. thermally applied dyes also diffuses through the coating into the film and into the support. child As in, this method uses two separate machines, each receiving an image of the diffused dye. The presence of a dense protective printed layer increases security.

The finished card is made by applying a diffusible dye to the outer surface of the card and then causing diffusion. Further electronic, e.g. You can be given Ruder's signature dye image.

Typical yellow, magenta, and blue colors are used to measure the depth of dye penetration. The dye was continuously deposited onto the PVC support by a Hitachi thermal head printer. , 0.7 mm wide parallel black lines were formed.

The PVC support is an 80 micron thick transparent PVC film (from Stauffen). supplied) and this material is a 20 micron dry thick high molecular weight PVC homopolymer. The coating was coated with a coating of Mar (supplied by 808, model 29784).

The coating was applied by solution deposition.

Thermal imaging described above was then performed. For uncoated supports, coated The side that should be treated was visualized. For coated supports, the coated side is the image was made into

The imaged support was then coated with 7 sheets of 650 micron thick PVC card stock. , were laminated with the printed side facing out.

In order to provide a method for comparative measurement of dye penetration after lamination under various conditions, The imaged surface was physically removed to increase the depth. The depth of the stain is due to the concentration of the dye. It was taken at the point where it clearly begins to decrease. However, some of the dyes have lower Concentration, but deeper, with concentration such that it is still difficult to make unauthorized changes. It penetrated.

The depth was measured using a Talysurf surface distribution measuring device.

Table 1 shows the values measured twice for the two types of samples and their average values.

As expected, the diffusion depth was found to increase with time and temperature.

The degree of diffusion is generally about 2-4 times greater through the coated PVC.

The dye measured here was measured by looking at a cross section of an equivalent sample using an electron microscope. Penetration was at least 50 percentage points more than if the company had done so.

The results show that a significant degree of diffusion can be achieved during lamination. The table results are also , the first support coating layer allows deeper diffusion than the laminated film under the same conditions. Show that. This can have considerable advantages.

1 1JC1551099978, 5±12 (: 155 Io 14 16 19 18 16.8±2.23 0CI55 30 9 8.5 9 8 8.6i:0.54 CI55 30 38 40 32 32 35.5±4 5 [IC1801015171416I5.5±1.36 C1801034 32444g 39.5±87 11c 145 75 3434 2628 30.5±48 CI45 75 80 80 62 65 71.8±10 dye By considering the introduction of an infrared absorber into a material, it is possible to incorporate an infrared absorber into a carrier or Printing of PVC by ensuring transfer with dye from supply sheet It has been shown that it is possible to promote different absorption between areas and non-printed areas. It was. If this absorbent is sufficiently sensitive and does not degrade during transfer, the card The dye-printed areas selectively absorb radiation (of selected wavelengths) and therefore heating will occur. thus heating specific areas needed differently avoid distorting or changing the bulk state of the card by Is possible.

Submission of translation of written amendment (Article 184-8 of the Patent Law) May 18, 1991

Claims (27)

[Claims] 1. A method of imparting an image onto a product comprising at least a first plastic layer. transfer at least one diffusible dye to the first plastic layer; (selected to give an image representation on the layer) and said dye is added into the first layer. diffused and partially retained, marking at least the second layer in contact with the first layer. A method that includes: 2. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the dye is diffused into both layers. 3. 3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein the second layer comprises preprinted indicia. 4. A preprinted indicia is supported on a plastic substrate and the dye is partially applied. 4. Diffusion into the plastic substrate through the indicia preprinted on the plastic substrate. the method of. 5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the second layer is a plastic material. Law. 6. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the layer comprises a PVC-containing material. 7. The diffusion process includes heating the first and second layers for a predetermined time. 7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6. 8. The diffusion process involves at least the first plastic layer absorbing the radiation, thereby The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising generating heat by . 9. Fusion laminating the first layer to the second layer such that at least partial diffusion of said dye is applied to the lamination. 9. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the method is produced by a drying step. 10. The lamination process involves applying pressure and cooling the bonded laminate. 10. The method of claim 9. 11. Heat the first and second layers to a temperature of 130°C to 160°C for up to 1 minute. 00 to 600 lbs/in2 (21 to 41 KPa) of pressure is applied. The method according to any one of items 8 to 10. 12. 12. The method of claims 1-11, wherein the surface of the first layer supporting the transfer dye is in contact with the second layer. The method described in any one of the above. 13. Claims 1-12, wherein the first and second layers are placed in contact after the transfer step. The method according to any one of the above. 14. wherein the dye diffuses into at least the first layer to a penetration depth of greater than 5 μm; 14. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 13. 15. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the dye diffuses to a penetration depth of at least 10 μm. Law. 16. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the dye diffuses to a penetration depth of at least 50 μm. Law. 17. The product further includes a third plastic layer, the second layer being of the first and third genus. 17. Any of claims 1 to 16, wherein the dye is located between and causes diffusion in all three layers. or the method described in paragraph 1. 18. 18. Any of claims 1 to 17, wherein the dye is transferred from a carrier to the first layer. or the method described in paragraph 1. 19. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the dye is transferred to the first layer using radiation. 20. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the radiation beam is a laser beam or a thermal head. 21. A claim that transfers one or more dyes to the first layer to produce a multicolored image. 21. The method according to any one of items 1 to 20. 22. The dye is sufficiently combined with the heat-absorbing dye, and the heat-absorbing dye is activated in the diffusion process. 22. Any one of claims 1 to 21, comprising: softening and diffusing a diffusible dye. The method described in Section 1. 23. If the product contains a security product and the image provides a unique identification, the claim 23. The method according to any one of items 1 to 22. 24. 24. The method of claim 23, wherein the image is unique to the wearer of the product. 25. 25. A method according to claim 23 or 24, wherein the images are sequential numbers. 26. A security product containing two layers in contact; at least one layer is diffused. Contains a first plastic layer containing an image formed by a color dye, and the other layers , a security product marked with a diffusible dye. 27. Produced by the method according to any one of claims 1 to 25. Security protection product described in 26.