EP3439890A1

EP3439890A1 - Method and device for printing containers, and container

Info

Publication number: EP3439890A1
Application number: EP17708211.2A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Katrin Preckel; Alexandra Theopold
Original assignee: KHS GmbH
Current assignee: KHS GmbH
Priority date: 2016-04-04
Filing date: 2017-02-28
Publication date: 2019-02-13
Also published as: IL261610A; WO2017174262A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for printing at least partly transparent containers (10). In a first printing step, a first printed image (DB1) is printed by applying at least one printing ink onto the container (10), and in a second printing step, a second printed image (DB2) is printed by applying at least one printing ink onto the container (10). The printed images (DB1, DB2) are printed in an at least partly overlapping manner, namely such that layers of ink are applied onto the container (10) with a time delay. A first layer of ink is paired with the first printed image (DB1), and a second layer of ink is paired with the second printed image (DB2). A reflective layer (RFLX) is at least partially provided between the first and second printed image (DB1, DB2), said reflective layer being used to at least partially optically separate the printed images (DB1, DB2).

Description

METHOD AND DEVICE FOR PRINTING CONTAINERS

AND TANK

The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for printing on containers with a consisting of two print images print image arrangement and on a container comprising one consisting of two printed images

Print image arrangement.

Double-sided printing of flat substrates, for example paper, also referred to as duplex printing, is known. The substrate is printed on two opposite sides.

It is also known to print three-dimensional objects, in particular containers, in particular with a printing method according to the ink jet principle, for example from the document DE 10 2006 001 223 A1.

For three-dimensional containers, there is the problem that the wall can be printed on one side only, since the second wall side of the

Container interior facing toward and limits this circumferentially. However, a two-sided printing of the container wall would be desirable because either after emptying of the container in non-transparent content or transparent content even with a filled container, the container wall inside could be used for applying a design element and / or information. Based on this, it is an object of the invention to provide a method for printing on containers, which allows a printed image on the container in such a way

provide that it is visible on the inside of the container wall. The object is achieved on the basis of the preamble of independent claim 1 by its characterizing features. An apparatus for printing containers is the subject of the independent claim 12 and a

Container comprising a printed image arrangement is the subject of the independent patent claim 15. According to a first aspect, the invention relates to a method for printing on at least partially transparent containers. In a first printing step, a first printed image is printed by applying at least one printing ink to the container. In a second printing step, which follows the first printing step in time, a second printed image is printed by applying at least one printing ink to the container. The printed images are at least partially overlapping each other, ie to the same

Container wall area, printed. Between the first and second printed image, at least partially, a reflection layer is provided, by means of which the printed images are at least partially optically separated from each other. In other words, at two successive time intervals, two printed images are printed on the

Container wall applied, and that sandwiched, wherein in an intermediate layer between the first and second printed image, the reflection layer is provided. The reflection layer may have a reflective effect in particular for light in the visible range. "Partial" in the sense of the invention means that the reflection layer is not provided in a first printed image area over the entire area and in a second printed image area or if the reflection layer is formed by a multiplicity of pressure points which at least partially do not overlap.

The main advantage of the method according to the invention is that a first print image is produced, which can be seen through the container wall and the container interior when the container is viewed from the rear, and furthermore a second print image which at least partially represents the first print image

is provided overlapping, can be seen in a front view of the container. The provision of a reflection layer has the decisive advantage that between the stacked printed images, an optical separation layer is achieved, by means of which a clear optical separation between the first and second printed image is achieved, which also increases the contrast sharpness of the colors of the respective printed images. Preferably, the first and second print images are independently recognizable print images, ie, the first and second print images may have the same or different image content. According to one embodiment, the first and second printed image each comprise at least two different printing inks. The printing inks of the individual print images can be the same or different. In particular, the first and second printed image can be composed of a set of four printing inks, for example the printing inks black, magenta, cyan and yellow. The multi-layered arrangement of different printing inks makes it possible to form multicolored first and second printed images.

According to one embodiment, the printing inks of the first printed image are applied in the reverse order to the inks of the second printed image. As previously stated, the first print image in a back view and the second print image in a front view may be perceived by a viewer, i. the viewing directions are one another

opposite or substantially opposite. To this

Taking into account different viewing directions, it is advantageous to provide the inks of the printed images inverted to each other, so that depending on the viewing direction results in each case the same layering order of the inks of the printed images. Alternatively, however, it is also possible that the inks of the first print image are applied in a different order than the inks of the second print image (e.g., only partially inverted). Furthermore, alternatively, it is conceivable that the printing inks of the first and second printed image are applied in exactly the same order.

According to one embodiment, the first printed image is identical in content to the second printed image and is applied congruent thereto. Thus, the externally recognizable motif can also be seen from the back

Container wall and the container interior are recognized by a viewer. According to one embodiment, the reflection layer is formed by printing on an ink. This may in particular be a white, light gray, silver or gold-colored printing ink. The printing ink may in particular contain titanium dioxide (TiO 2), for example titanium dioxide nanoparticles. In addition, the

Reflection layer have different degrees of coverage, for example a Coverage. As a result, the reflection layer can be applied with the printing means, in particular with digital printheads operating according to the ink-jet principle. According to one embodiment, the reflection layer is formed partially or completely between the first and second printed image. In the event that the reflection layer is only partially formed, a partially translucent printed image arrangement is formed. Depending on the design of the reflection layer, different optical effects of the printed image arrangement can thus be produced, for example completely separate first and second printed images, partially separated first and second printed images or a completely translucent printed image arrangement. As a result, the freedom of design of the container provided on the printed image arrangement can be increased. Alternatively or additionally, it is possible for the reflection layer to be provided only partially opaque, for example with an area coverage of less than 100% (eg 50%). This is possible for example by a smaller overlap of adjacent pressure points, so that the reflection layer appears brighter.

According to one embodiment, the reflection layer is non-transparent or substantially non-transparent and thus forms an optical separation layer between the first and second printed image. This can be completely different

Information from a viewer from the different

Viewing directions are perceived, for example, in a front view of the container, a label-like printed image and in a rear view of the container, for example, a winning code, a

Text information or similar ..

According to one embodiment, in addition to the first and second printed image, a third printed image is printed on the container, namely on one

Tank wall area, which is opposite to the first and second printed image with respect to the container axis. As a result, an image overlay of the first print image (printed image provided between the container wall and reflection layer) can be achieved with the third print image. This is done, for example, such that when looking at the third printed image, the first printed image through the Container walls and the container interior is visible through and this first printed image thus appears as the background of the first printed image. As a result, a visually appealing image overlay can be achieved. According to one embodiment, the printing takes place in digital direct printing by means of digital printheads. This can be a highly flexible

Tank printing with different information, especially in small batches done. In another aspect, the invention relates to an apparatus for printing on containers having at least one printing station. The printing station has printing means for applying a printed image, for example one or more digital inkjet printheads. The

Printing device is designed to print in a first printing step, a first printed image by applying at least one ink to the container, directly on the container wall. Furthermore, the printing device is designed to print a second printed image by applying at least one printing ink to the container in a second printing step, so that the first and second printed image come to lie at least partially one above the other. The printing device is further configured to at least partially between the first and second printed image

Reflection layer applied by means of which the printed images are at least partially optically separated from each other. The main advantage of this device is that when looking at the container from different sides the same or different

Print images are recognizable. Furthermore, an optical overlay of

Printed images are arranged on opposite sides of the container and one of which between the container wall and the

Reflection layer arranged printed image through the container walls and the container interior through as background image of another third printed image is recognizable. As a result, the design freedom in the printing of containers can be further increased. According to one embodiment, means are provided for applying a reflection layer, and these means for applying a reflection layer are formed by a print head which is designed to apply an ink forming the reflection layer. Thereby, the reflective layer between the first and second printed image can be applied by an ink application by means of a digital direct printing.

According to one embodiment, the device has a plurality of transport elements rotatably drivable about a rotation axis, which each have pressure means for applying an ink. For temporally successive application of the same printing inks are each two in the transport direction to each other

provided spaced transport elements, with each of which the same ink is applied. Alternatively, the transport elements are repeatedly passed through with the respective printing inks. In other words, the color layers of the same printing ink applied to one another at a time offset are applied either by two separate transport elements which are spaced apart from one another or the printing device is at least passed through twice to apply the printed images, the first printed image in a first pass and in a second pass the second printed image is at least partially applied over the first printed image.

According to a final aspect, the invention relates to a transparent container comprising a print image arrangement printed directly on the outside of a container, the print image arrangement comprising a first print image and a second print image, wherein the print images are arranged at least partially overlapping one another and wherein between the first and second

Print image is at least partially provided a reflection layer, by means of which the printed images are at least partially separated from each other. For the purposes of the invention, container means all packaging means, in particular bottles, cans, pouches, stand-up pouches etc.

For the purposes of the invention, the term "printing ink" is understood to mean a paint or ink which, in particular, operates in an ink-jet-printing manner digital printhead for printing on containers, in particular

Plastic containers is suitable.

The expression "essentially" or "approximately" in the sense of the invention means deviations from the exact value by +/- 10%, preferably by +/- 5% and / or deviations in the form of changes that are insignificant for the function.

Further developments, advantages and applications of the invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments and from the figures. In this case, all described and / or illustrated features alone or in any combination, in principle, the subject of the invention, regardless of their summary in the claims or their

Dependency. Also, the content of the claims is made an integral part of the description.

The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the figures of exemplary embodiments. Show it:

1 a shows an example of several color layers with different printing inks of a first printed image in a schematic representation;

1 b, by way of example, several color layers with different printing inks of a second printed image in a schematic representation; FIG. 1c shows, by way of example, a printed image arrangement formed one above the other by arranging the color layers of FIGS. 1a and 1b in a schematic manner

Presentation;

Fig. 2 by way of example, several representations of one with a printed image arrangement

As shown in FIG. 1 c printed container, the upper series of representations

Container in side view in different rotational positions (left:

front view; right: back view) and the lower one

Series of illustrations shows the container in these same rotational positions in plan view; 3a, by way of example, a plurality of ink layers with different printing inks of a first printed image in a schematic representation; FIG. 3b shows by way of example a reflection layer in a schematic representation; FIG.

3c, by way of example, a plurality of ink layers with different printing inks of a second printed image in a schematic representation; FIG. 3d shows, by way of example, a printed image arrangement formed one above the other by arranging the color layers of FIGS. 3a to 3c in a schematic manner

Presentation;

FIG. 4 shows, by way of example, several representations of a container printed with a printed image arrangement according to FIG. 3d, wherein the upper row of representations of FIG

Container in side view in different rotational positions (left:

front view; right: back view) and the lower one

Series of illustrations shows the container in these same rotational positions in plan view;

5a, by way of example, a plurality of color layers with different printing inks of a first printed image in a schematic representation;

FIG. 5b shows, by way of example, a reflection layer for the first printed image from FIG. 5a in a schematic representation; FIG.

5c, by way of example, a plurality of ink layers with different printing inks of a third printed image in a schematic representation; FIG. 5d shows, by way of example, a first and third printed image formed one above the other by arranging the color layers of FIGS. 5a and 5b or 5c in a schematic representation; FIG. 6 shows, by way of example, several representations of a container printed with the printed images according to FIG. 5d, wherein the upper illustration shows the container in a side view when looking at the container in the viewing direction BR and the lower representation shows the container in a top view.

7 shows by way of example a first embodiment of a printing device for

Printing of containers in a schematic plan view;

8 shows, by way of example, a second exemplary embodiment of a printing device for printing on containers in a schematic plan view;

Fig. 9 by way of example a third embodiment of a printing device for

Printing of containers in a schematic plan view; and

10 shows an example of a fourth embodiment of a printing device for printing containers in a schematic plan view; and

Fig. 1 1 by way of example a fifth embodiment of a printing apparatus for printing containers in a schematic plan view

In the figures 1 a, 1 b and 1 c, the construction of a printed image arrangement 1 according to a first embodiment is shown by way of example. In the embodiment shown, the print image arrangement 1 comprises a first and a second print image DB1, DB2. These print images DB1, DB2 may be printed on a wall region of a container 10 such that the first print image DB1 partially or completely covers the second print image DB2. In this case, for example, the first print image DB1 can be applied directly to the container wall and the second print image DB2 is at least partially applied to the first print image DB1. In order to obtain a multicolored print image, several color layers of different printing inks DF1, DF2, DF3, DF4 are arranged one above the other. The respective printing ink DF1 - DF4 is applied in a color layer in the form of drops, wherein the color layer can be formed continuously or only in areas an inking of the respective printing ink can be done so that underlying layers of paint remain visible in areas where no inking occurs. It is also possible that the printing inks DF1 - DF4 are applied in such a way that by mixing the superimposed

Printing inks DF1 - DF4 results in a desired color. For example, the colors black, magenta, cyan and yellow can be used as printing inks DF1 - DF4. Alternatively, the use of other color sets is possible,

For example, a single-color printing. In the figures, the different hatchings each refer to an ink DF1 - DF4. As shown in FIGS. 1 a and 1 b, a motif (fir tree) of the print image DB1 is formed, for example, from color layers of the printing inks DF1-DF4. The motif of the second print image DB2 can also be formed from color layers of printing inks DF1 - DF4. It should be noted that the motif of the first print image DB1 may be the same or different from the motif of the second print image DB2 and also the inks used in the print image DB 1 may be the same or different from the inks used in the print image DB 2. For example, the print image DB1 may be a monochrome print image, for example a winning code, whereas the print image DB2 may be a

can be multicolored print image. In other words, not every print image has to contain all printing inks DF1 - DF4 but can also be formed from only a reduced ink set or a single ink.

As shown in FIG. 1 c, the printed images are applied one after the other and at least partially overlapping, first the color layers assigned to the print image DB 1 and then the printed image DB 2

associated color layers. The representation in FIG. 1 c is selected such that the hatchings assigned to the respective printing inks DF 1 - DF 4 remain recognizable. Preferably, the arrangement of the ink layers of different printing inks DF1 - DF4 in the printed images DB1 and DB2 can be selected inverted relative to one another, ie the printing inks DF1 - DF4 of the printing image DB 1 are in the opposite direction

Order arranged as the printing inks DF1 - DF4 of the print image DB 2. For example, in FIG. 1c, it can be seen that the color layers of the printing ink DF4 (diagonal check) come to lie directly above one another, whereas the color layers of the printing ink DF1 (oblique hatching) are arranged furthest apart from one another. FIG. 2 shows a container 10 on which a print image arrangement 1 previously described in connection with FIGS. 1a to 1c is provided. 2 shows a container in a front view of the print image arrangement 1, the upper right representation in FIG. 2 a container 10 in a rear view onto the print image arrangement 1, i. the

Print image arrangement 1 is perceived through a first transparent container wall, the container interior and a second transparent container wall. The lower illustrations in FIG. 2 each show plan views of the respective container 10 with the printed image arrangement 1 printed thereon, wherein the lower left representation of the upper left representation and the lower right representation of the upper right representation is assigned. In other

Thus, the illustrations in the left column show the container 10 in a first orientation and the representations in the right column show the container 10 in a second orientation that is rotated 180 ° (around container vertical axis) to the first orientation. As can be seen by the arrows indicating the viewing direction BR, the perception of the printed image arrangement 1 in the container representations of the right-hand column takes place at the back through the container walls and possibly through an existing filling material. The above-described print image arrangement 1 enables the first print image DB1 to be printed from the second print image DB2

is independently perceptible print image, in such a way that the first print image DB1 when you look back through the transparent container wall and through the container interior and the second print image DB2 front view of the container 10 is recognizable. Preferably, the above forms

Print image arrangement 1 a translucent print image, ie the printed image is at least partially transparent. Figures 3a to 3d show a further embodiment of a

Print image arrangement 1. In the following, only the differences from the above-described embodiment shown in FIGS. 1a-1c will be described. For the rest, the explanations given above in connection with the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 1a-1c apply.

The print image arrangement 1 in turn has a first and a second print image DB1, DB2. These print images DB1, DB2 can turn on one

Be wall region of a container 10 printed that the first

Print image DB1 partially or completely covered with the second print image DB2. In this case, for example, the first print image DB1 directly on the

Be applied container and the second print image DB2 is at least partially applied to the first print image DB1. As described above, the print images DB1, DB2 may each have multiple color layers of different inks DF1 - DF4. The main difference of the

Embodiment according to Figures 3a to 3d compared to the embodiment of Figures 1 a to 1 c is that between the at least partially superimposed print images DB1, DB2 a reflection layer RFLX is provided. In other words, the reflection layer RFLX forms a

Interlayer or release layer between the first print image DB1 and the second print image DB2.

The reflection layer RFLX is preferably formed by applying a printing ink. Preferably, the reflection layer RFLX is replaced by a white one

Printing ink or light gray, silver or gold-colored ink formed. Such printing inks have high optical reflection properties and thus cause an optical separation between the first print image DB1 and the second print image DB2. For example, the reflection layer RFLX can be formed by a titanium dioxide-containing printing ink, in particular printing ink containing TiO 2 nanoparticles.

As shown schematically in FIGS. 3 a to 3 c, the printed image arrangement 1 is formed by a time-sequential application of color layers. First, the print image DB1 is printed by applying one or more printing inks DF1 -DF4. Subsequently, the reflection layer RFLX is applied to the first printed image DB1 and applied to this reflection layer, the second print image DB2 with one or more inks DF1 DF4. The reflection layer RFLX can be provided over the whole area between the print images DB1 and DB2. Alternatively, the reflection layer RFLX only partially, ie in

Partitions between the print images DB1 and DB2 are provided. By partially attaching the reflection layer RFLX between the print images DB1, DB2, the print image arrangement 1 can have translucent print image areas

(those areas in which no reflection layer RFLX is present) and opaque print image areas (those areas in which a

Reflection layer RFLX is present). Further alternatively or additionally, it is possible that the reflection layer RFLX is not completely opaque but transparent / opaque, i. For example, only 50% nationwide, but distributed over the whole of the printed image arrangement 1 occupied area is printed. In other words, the reflection layer RFLX is partially opaque between the first and second print images DB1, DB2, i. the pressure points forming the reflection layer RFLX are less / less and the reflection layer RFLX thus appears lighter or partially transparent.

FIG. 3d shows a schematic representation of the layered paint jobs of the print image arrangement 1. The reflection layer RFLX is as

Separating layer between the first and second printed image DB1, DB2 arranged. Preferably, the printing inks DF1 - DF4 are mirror-symmetrical with respect to the reflective layer RFLX, i. identical printing inks DF1-DF4 have the same layer spacing from the reflection layer RFLX. In other words, the inks DF1 - DF4 of the print image DB1 are arranged in the reverse order to the inks DF1 - DF4 of the print image DB2. FIG. 4 shows - analogously to FIG. 2 - several representations of the container 10, on which one previously described in connection with FIGS. 3a to 3d

Printed image arrangement 1 is provided (each side view and top view in different orientations of the container 10). The upper left representation in Figure 4 again shows a container 10 in a front view on the Print image arrangement 1, the right upper view in Figure 4 a container 10 in a side view of the print image arrangement 1, ie the print image arrangement 1 is perceived by a first transparent container wall, the container interior Nnenraum and a second transparent container through. The

Illustrations in the left column of FIG. 4 show the container 10 in a first orientation and the illustrations in the right column show the container 10 in a second orientation that is rotated 180 ° to the first orientation. As can be seen by the arrows indicating the direction BR, the

Perception of the print image arrangement 1 in the container representations of the right-hand column at the back through the container walls and a possibly present filling material. The print image arrangement 1 shown in FIGS. 3 a to 3 d enables the first print image DB 1 to be independent of the second print image DB2

is perceivable print image, in such a way that the first print image DB1 in the rear view through the transparent container wall and through the

Container interior through and the second print image DB2 front view of the container 10 is recognizable. The reflective layer RFLX causes no or substantially no visible light through the print image array

can transmit and thus the first print image DB1 is visually separated from the second print image DB2.

Figures 5a to 5d and Figure 6 shows a print image arrangement on a container 10 having a plurality of print image arrangement components on opposite sides of the container 10 (with respect to the container vertical axis) and adapted to create a spatial print image by interaction of the print image components. For this purpose, a first printed image DB1 is present on a first container wall region (0 ° position in FIG. 6) and on a second one

Container wall portion which is diametrically opposite the first container wall region (180 ° position in Fig. 6), a further printed image DB3 provided. The first print image DB1 is formed in the illustrated embodiment by way of example by a mountain backdrop and is further formed by way of example by superposition of several printing inks DF1, DF2. For example, the first printing ink DF1 is applied directly to the container wall and the second printing ink DF2 at least partially covers the second printing ink. It is understood that the first print image DB1 also from more than two inks or only one single ink can be formed. Subsequently, a reflection layer RFLX is provided on this first printed image (FIG. 5b). These

Reflective layer RFLX can again be partial, full or partial

be provided nationwide. It may, for example, be adapted in shape to the first printed image or have an independent form (polygon, rectangle, square, etc.).

In the exemplary embodiment shown, no further printed image is provided on the reflection layer RFLX. It is understood, however, that deviating from this, analogous to the above-described embodiments, a second printed image on the

Reflection layer can be provided.

On the opposite side of the first print image DB1 is the other

Print image DB3 provided, which in turn may consist of several layers of printing inks DF1 - DF4, which overlap at least partially.

As shown in FIG. 6, when the container is viewed in the viewing direction BR, a superimposition of the first printed image DB1 provided on the back side with the front-side printed image DB3 is produced. In other words, the print image DB1 can be perceived through the container walls and the container interior and appears, for example, as the background of the print image DB3. The reflection layer applied to the first printed image DB1 acts as a background or as a primer in order to reduce the light transmission of the first printed image DB1 and thus to make the first printed image clearly recognizable. Likewise, in the case of the further printed image DB3 between the container wall and the printed image DB3, an ink application can take place in order to reduce the light transparency of the printed image DB3. For this purpose, the same ink or type of ink is usually used as in the described reflective layer. Figures 7 to 1 1 show schematic representations of several devices 20 for printing on containers 10, by means of which a previously described

Print image arrangement 1 can be applied to a container 10. The

Printing devices 20 each have a plurality of transport elements 22. At this transport elements 22 each have a plurality of printing stations 21 are provided to where the printing of the container 10 in individual, successive printing steps takes place. At the printing stations 21 each pressure means, for example, according to an ink jet principle acting printheads are provided by means of which the respective printing ink DF1 - DF4 is applied to the container wall. Other pressure means are conceivable, for example, pressure medium for a transfer printing. In the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 7 to 11, a transport element 22 is assigned in each case one printing ink DF1 - DF4, ie all printing stations 21 of the respective transport element 22 are for

Application of a single set ink DF1 - DF4 formed.

The printing devices 20, the container to be printed 10, as indicated by the arrow, fed via a Behälterzuführeinrichtung 23 and

then on a multiply deflected transport route by means of the transport elements 22 through the printing device 20 through to

Container removal 24 transports, wherein during the transport of the container 10, the printing takes place. Such a printing device 20 is described, for example, in the publication DE 10 201 1 122 912 A1, which is hereby fully made the subject of the present disclosure. When transporting the container 10 by the respective transport elements 22 takes place in time

successively the printing of these containers with color layers

different inks DF1 - DF4.

The printing devices 20 according to FIGS. 7 and 9 are provided for applying a printed image arrangement 1 according to the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 a to 1 a and 2, ie a printed image arrangement 1 without a reflection layer RFLX. Thus, for example, the containers 10 are printed on the first transport element 22 immediately following the container feed 23 with the printing ink DF1, the subsequent second transport element 22 with the printing ink DF2, etc. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 5, two transport elements 22 are provided in each case, which effect a printing with the same printing ink DF1-DF4. The arrangement of the transport of the container 10 with a certain ink DF1 - DF4 causing transport elements 22 is selected such that the printing inks DF1 - DF4, as described above, are applied inverted, ie first, for example, the inks of Print image DB1 in the order DF1, DF2, DF3 and DF4 and then the printing colors of the print image DB2 in the order DF4, DF3, DF2 and DF1 applied. As previously described, other ink arrangements are possible, for example an arrangement such that the inks are only partially inverted (eg, DB1: DF1, DF2, DF3, DF4, and DB2: DF4, DF3, DF1, DF2.)

The printing device 20 according to FIG. 9 differs from the one previously described

described printing apparatus 20 according to Figure 7, characterized in that only one transport element 22 per ink DF1 - DF4 is provided. The print image DB1 is applied after the container feed 23 to the first transport element 22 in the ink sequence DF1, DF2, DF3 and DF4, in a first multiply deflected, for example, meandering transport path TW1. The application of the print image DB2 on the container takes place on one

opposite, also repeatedly deflected, for example meandering return path TW2 to the container discharge 24a. The container discharge 24a is

preferably provided adjacent to the container feeder 23. As a result, if only one transport element 22 per printing ink DF1-DF4 is used, a double application of the respective printing inks DF1-DF4 can take place.

Alternatively, it is possible that the container 10 after application of the print image DB1 by a return conveyor 25 again to the container supply 23rd

is returned and thus formed by the transport elements 22

Transport route passes twice on the same transport path and is transported to the container removal 24b. As a result, a non-inverted layer-wise application of the respective inks DF1-DF4 is achieved.

FIGS. 8 and 10 respectively show printing devices 20 by means of which a printed image arrangement 1 according to FIGS. 3 a to 3 d can be produced. The printing device 20 according to FIG. 8 is essentially identical to the one

Printing device 20 formed in accordance with Figure 7, so that will be discussed below only the distinguishing features. Otherwise, the statements made above with reference to the embodiment according to FIG. 7 apply. The essential difference between the printing device 20 according to FIG. 8 and the printing device 20 according to FIG. 7 is that in the middle region of the printing device 20 according to FIG

Transport path on which the printing takes place, a transport element 22 is provided, by means of which the reflection layer RFLX is applied. This reflection layer RFLX can be obtained, for example, by applying a color layer by means of a print head or other printing methods (for example

Transfer printing, screen printing, etc.). More specifically, in a first region of the transport path by the printing device 20, the first print image DB1 is printed, for example, by applying color layers in the ink sequence DF1, DF2, DF3 and DF4, then the reflection layer RFLX is applied to the first print image DB1 and onto this reflection layer RFLX the second print image DB2 is printed by applying color layers in the ink sequence DF4, DF3, DF2 and DF1. Thus, the reflection layer RFLX is provided as an intermediate layer between the print images DB1, DB2.

FIG. 10 shows a further embodiment of a printing device 20 similar to the previously described embodiment according to FIG. 9. The printing device 20 according to FIG. 10 is designed essentially identical to the printing device 20 according to FIG

Distinguishing features is received. Otherwise, the statements made previously with respect to the embodiment according to FIG. 9 apply.

The essential difference between the printing device 20 according to FIG. 10 and the printing device 20 according to FIG. 9 is that a further

Transport element 22 is provided for applying the reflection layer RFLX. This further transport element 22 is in the transport direction after the

Transport element provided by means of the last ink DF1 - DF4, in the illustrated embodiment, the ink DF4 of the first print image DB1 is applied. After the application of the reflection layer RFLX, the containers 10 can either be printed with the second print image DB2 on an opposite, also repeatedly deflected, for example meandering, return path as described above with reference to FIG. 7 or the containers 10 can be conveyed via a suitable return device 25 to the container feeder 23rd be returned and on the same transport again pass through the printing device 20 to be provided with the second print image DB 2. In the latter case, for example, when re-running through the same

Transport path, the application of the reflective layer RFLX be disabled, so that only the printing inks DF1 - DF4 are applied again to the container 10, but not the reflective layer RFLX.

1 1 shows a further embodiment of a printing device 20 similar to the representation according to FIG. 10. The printing device 20 according to FIG. 1 differs from the printing device 20 according to FIG. 10 described above in that the transport element 22 used for the application of the reflection layer RFLX is formed, with respect to the container feed 23, the first transport element 22 forms in the chain of the transport elements. Thus, the printing device 20 for both the application of a single standard print image, which consists of a

Primer layer (e.g., white ink layer applied by the transport member for supporting the reflection layer RFLX) and one or more color layers (from the set of inks DF1 - DF4), as well as for applying a print image array 1 comprising two

superimposed print images DB1, DB2 with interposed

Reflection layer RFLX can be used.

To apply the standard print image, the containers 10 pass through the

Printing device 20 in a single pass, from the

Container feed 23 via the meandering transport path TW1 formed by the plurality of transport elements 22 to the container discharge 24, i. each transport element 22 is traversed once.

For applying a print image arrangement 1 comprising two superimposed print images DB1, DB2 with interposed reflection layer RFLX, the printing device 20 is driven such that the container 10 first without application of ink layers on the transport path TW1 of the

Container feed 23 are conveyed in the direction of the container removal 24 to begin at the container discharge 24 closest transport element 22 with the container printing. Subsequently, the container 10 on the Transport path TW2 transported back towards the container feeder 23 and thereby printed with one or more inks DF1 - DF4. The at least partial application of the reflection layer RFLX then takes place on the transport element 22 adjacent to the container feed 23. The containers 10 are subsequently placed on the transport element 22 to apply the second print image DB2

Transport path TW3 in the direction of the container discharge 24 promoted and after

Completion of the second print image DB2 transported by this container discharge 24. The invention has been described above by means of exemplary embodiments. It is understood that a variety of changes or modifications are possible without thereby departing from the inventive concept underlying the invention. For example, in the previous embodiments relating to the printing apparatus 20, it has been assumed that the

Printing device has a plurality of transport elements 22, each of the

Applying a certain printing ink DF1 - DF4 effect. Alternatively, however, it is possible for the printing device 20 to have only a single transporting element 22 with a plurality of printing stations, on which a plurality of printing heads for discharging different printing inks DF1-DF4 are provided. The

Printing device can in particular according to one in the applicant's own

Publication DE 10 2007 050 490 A1 described embodiment

be educated. The content of this document is fully incorporated herein by reference. Furthermore, a print head for applying the reflection layer RFLX can be provided at the printing stations. Thereby, the individual color layers or the reflection layer RFLX can be applied to the container 10 at a single printing station, for example by a relative movement of printheads such that a first printhead moved out of an active position and another printhead is moved into this active position ,

Still alternatively, the printing device 20 may comprise a single printing station, on the different printheads for discharging the printing inks DF1 - DF4 and, for example, a printhead for applying the reflection layer RFLX are provided. Such a printing device is described, for example, in the applicant's own publication DE 10 2014 1 16 405 A1, which is hereby made the subject of this disclosure in its entirety.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1 printed image arrangement 10 containers

20 printing device

21 printing station

22 transport element

23 container feed

24, 24a, 24b container discharge

25 repatriation facility

BR viewing direction

DB1 first print image

DB2 second print image

DB3 third print

DF1 first printing ink

DF2 second printing ink

DF3 third printing ink

DF4 fourth printing ink

RFLX reflection layer

TW1 first transport route

TW2 second transport route

TW3 third transport route

Claims

Method for printing on at least partially transparent containers (10), wherein in a first printing step a first printed image (DB1) is printed by applying at least one printing ink (DF1 - DF4) to the container (10) and wherein in a second printing step a second printed image (DB2) by applying at least one printing ink (DF1 - DF4) is printed on the container (10), wherein the printed images (DB1, DB2) are printed at least partially overlapping each other, such that color layers at a time offset to the container ( 10), wherein a first color layer is associated with the first print image (DB1) and a second color layer is associated with the second print image (DB2) and that between the first and second print image (DB1, DB2) at least partially

Reflection layer (RFLX) is provided by means of which the printed images (DB1, DB2) are at least partially optically separated from each other.

A method according to claim 1, characterized in that the first and second printed image (DB1, DB2) each have at least two different ones

Printing inks ((DF1 - DF4)).

Method according to Claim 2, characterized in that the printing inks (DF1 - DF4) of the first printed image (DB1) are applied in the reverse order to the inks (DF1 - DF4) of the second printed image (DB2).

A method according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the

Printing inks (DF1 - DF4) of the first print image (DB1) are applied in a different order than the inks (DF1 - DF4) of the second print image (DB2).

Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized

in that the first printed image (DB1) has the same content as the second printed image (DB2) and is congruent thereto.

6. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the reflection layer (RFLX) is formed by applying a printing ink.

7. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized

in that the reflection layer (RFLX) is formed over the entire area between the first and second printed image (DB1, DB2).

8. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized

characterized in that the reflective layer (RFLX) is opaque or substantially non-transparent.

9. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized

characterized in that in addition to the first and second printed image (DB1, DB2), a third printed image (DB3) is printed on the container, on a container wall region opposite the first and second printed image (DB1, DB2) with respect to the container vertical axis ,

10. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized

in that the reflection layer (RFLX) is formed by application of a titanium dioxide-containing printing ink.

1 1. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized

characterized in that the printing in digital direct printing is done by means of digital printheads.

12. Apparatus for printing on containers (10) with at least one

Printing station (21), wherein the printing station (21) comprises printing means for applying a printed image (DB1, DB2), wherein printing device (20) is adapted, in a first printing step, a first printed image (DB1) by applying at least one printing ink (DF1). DF4) on the container (10), wherein the printing device (20) is further adapted to print a second print image (DB2) in a second printing step by applying at least one printing ink (DF1 - DF4) to the container (10), so that the printed images (DB1, DB2) at least partially come to lie one above the other and that the printing device (20) is designed, at least partially between the first and second printed image (DB1, DB2)

Reflection layer (RFLX) apply, by means of which the printed images (DB1, DB2) are at least partially optically separated from each other.

3. Apparatus according to claim 12, characterized in that means for

Application of the reflection layer (RFLX) are provided, wherein said means for applying a reflection layer (RFLX) are formed by a print head, which is adapted for the application of an ink forming the reflective layer (RFLX).

4. Apparatus according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that the

Device has a plurality of rotationally driven about a rotation axis transport elements (22), each having printing means for applying a printing ink, wherein for temporally successive application of the same printing inks (DF1 - DF4) in each case two in the transport direction spaced apart transport elements (22) are provided with which in each case the same printing ink (DF1 - DF4) is applied, or the transport elements (22) are repeatedly passed through with the respective printing inks (DF1 - DF4).

5. Transparent container (10) comprising a printed directly on the outside of a container wall printed image arrangement (1), wherein the

Printed image arrangement (1) comprises a first printed image (DB1) and a second printed image (DB2), wherein the printed images (DB1, DB2) are arranged at least partially overlapping each other and wherein between the first and second printed image (DB1, DB2) at least partially a reflective layer (RFLX) is provided by means of which the printed images (DB1, DB2) are at least partially optically separated from each other.