WO2016001413A1 - Dispositif et procédé d'impression thermique sur une cible - Google Patents

Dispositif et procédé d'impression thermique sur une cible Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2016001413A1
WO2016001413A1 PCT/EP2015/065222 EP2015065222W WO2016001413A1 WO 2016001413 A1 WO2016001413 A1 WO 2016001413A1 EP 2015065222 W EP2015065222 W EP 2015065222W WO 2016001413 A1 WO2016001413 A1 WO 2016001413A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
heating member
matter
heating
zone
target
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP2015/065222
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Sebastian Meyer
Original Assignee
Sebastian Meyer
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Sebastian Meyer filed Critical Sebastian Meyer
Publication of WO2016001413A1 publication Critical patent/WO2016001413A1/fr

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J3/00—Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed
    • B41J3/407—Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
    • B41J3/4078—Printing on textile
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/315—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of heat to a heat sensitive printing or impression-transfer material
    • B41J2/32—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of heat to a heat sensitive printing or impression-transfer material using thermal heads
    • B41J2/325—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of heat to a heat sensitive printing or impression-transfer material using thermal heads by selective transfer of ink from ink carrier, e.g. from ink ribbon or sheet

Definitions

  • the present disclosure relates to the thermal transfer of matter onto a target material.
  • devices, kits and methods are disclosed for thermal transfer printing.
  • Printing graphics or text onto a target, in particular clothing such as T-shirts is typically performed in the art using a hot-pressing process, in which the target to be printed on is positioned onto a base plate.
  • the thermal transfer process employed is used since about 1970.
  • a donor film such as a foil or a paper, which includes a pigmented layer
  • a top plate is placed onto the donor film.
  • the top plate generally includes a heating device to generate the desired temperature of the hot-pressing process.
  • the pigments of the pigmented layer are then transferred onto the fabric by means of pressure between the top and the base plate at elevated temperature.
  • a hot-melt adhesive is used, which may be included in the donor film.
  • target material includes surface irregularities, such as seams, button borders or zippers of clothes.
  • Target material may also have areas that differ in their surface material, or different matter may be desired to be transferred to different areas of the target material.
  • Plastic as a further example of target material may also have an uneven shape or contain surface elements. In case of an uneven surface, to allow even pressure and contact during the hot-pressing process the target material fabric needs to be arranged into a position where no irregularities are being sandwiched, or alternatively adapting means need to be included in order to compensate the surface irregularities of the textile. In case of different surface material present, a compromise may have to be found in terms of thermal transfer conditions, which are suitable for all surface materials present.
  • International patent application WO 2014/082133 relates to a method of printing onto a textile material that has loose fibres on at least one surface. The method involves pre- shrinking the textile material in a thermal press and transferring an image onto the pre-shrunk textile material.
  • a method, use or device as described herein allows in some embodiments selecting individual temperature conditions for individual areas of target material. In some embodiments a method, use or device as described herein allows thermally transferring matter onto a target material that contains surface irregularities and/or uneven surface portions. In some embodiments a method, use or device as described herein allows both selecting individual temperature conditions for individual areas of target material and thermally transferring matter onto a target with contains surface irregularities and/or uneven surface portions.
  • a thermal transfer printing device includes a base, a top and a multi-zone heating member.
  • the base is adapted to support target matter positioned thereon.
  • the multi-zone heating member is in some embodiments adapted to contact target matter.
  • the multi-zone heating member is adapted to contact a source of matter to be transferred. In use this source of matter to be transferred may be positioned adjacent to the target matter.
  • the multi-zone heating member is in some embodiments adapted to contact both target matter and the source of matter to be transferred.
  • the multi-zone heating member is adapted to transfer thermal energy to contacted matter such as target matter.
  • the multi-zone heating member includes a plurality of heating zones.
  • At least one heating zone of the plurality of heating zones is adapted to be capable of transferring a particular magnitude of thermal energy to contacted target matter.
  • the respective heating zone is adapted to be capable of transferring a preselected magnitude of thermal energy to contacted target matter.
  • each heating zone of the plurality of heating zones is adapted to be capable of transferring a particular magnitude of thermal energy to contacted target matter.
  • the top of the thermal transfer printing device is moveable between an idle position and a press position. In the press position the multi-zone heating member is sandwiched between the base and the top.
  • At least one heating zone of the multi-zone heating member of the thermal transfer printing device according to the first aspect is adapted to be capable of providing a particular temperature to a region of matter contacted therewith. In some embodiments the heating zone is adapted to be capable of providing a preselected temperature to a region of matter contacted therewith. In some embodiments more than one heating zone of the multi-zone heating member of the thermal transfer printing device according to the first aspect is adapted to be capable of providing a particular temperature to a region of matter contacted therewith. In some embodiments each heating zone of the multi-zone heating member of the thermal transfer printing device according to the first aspect is adapted to be capable of providing a particular temperature to a region of matter contacted therewith.
  • the multi-zone heating member of the thermal transfer printing device according to the first aspect is in communication with the top. In some embodiments the multi-zone heating member of the thermal transfer printing device according to the first aspect is connected to the top. In some embodiments the multi-zone heating member of the thermal transfer printing device according to the first aspect is in communication with the base. In some embodiments the multi-zone heating member of the thermal transfer printing device according to the first aspect is connected to the base.
  • the multi-zone heating member of the thermal transfer printing device according to the first aspect is removably connected to the top. In some embodiments the multi-zone heating member of the thermal transfer printing device according to the first aspect is removably connected to the base. In some embodiments of the thermal transfer printing device according to the first aspect the target matter is a textile material. In some embodiments the target matter essentially consists of a textile material. In some embodiments the target matter includes a textile material.
  • the multi-zone heating member of the thermal transfer printing device according to the first aspect includes from about 2 to about 20 heating zones. In some embodiments the multi-zone heating member of the thermal transfer printing device according to the first aspect includes from about 2 to about 16 heating zones.
  • the multi-zone heating member of the thermal transfer printing device according to the first aspect is resilient.
  • the multi-zone heating member of the thermal transfer printing device according to the first aspect is in some embodiments flexible. In some embodiments it is elastic.
  • Such a resilient or flexible multi-zone heating member may be adapted to conformably contact the target matter.
  • a respective resilient or flexible multi- zone heating member may be adapted to conformably contact the source of matter to be transferred.
  • a resilient multi-zone heating member or a flexible multi-zone heating member is in some embodiments adapted to conformably contact both target matter and the source of matter to be transferred.
  • a multi-zone heating member is inflatable.
  • a resilient or flexible multi-zone heating member may for example be inflatable.
  • a portion of a resilient multi-zone heating member includes a circumferential elastic cover.
  • an entire resilient multi-zone heating member includes a circumferential elastic cover.
  • a respective elastic cover may be a flexible cover.
  • Such an elastic cover may include a circumferential elastic membrane.
  • a respective elastic cover may essentially consist of a circumferential elastic membrane.
  • the elastic cover may be a circumferential elastic membrane.
  • the top of the thermal transfer printing device according to the first aspect is coupled to the base. In some embodiments the top of the thermal transfer printing device according to the first aspect is pivotally connected to the base. In some embodiments the base of the thermal transfer printing device according to the first aspect is moveable relative to the top. In some embodiments the top of the thermal transfer printing device is pivotally connected to a body. In such embodiments the base is generally in communication with the respective body. The base may in some embodiments be connected to the respective body. In some embodiments the base is slidably connected to the body.
  • the multi-zone heating member of the thermal transfer printing device includes a heating element.
  • This heating element is capable of transmitting thermal energy.
  • a respective heating element may include a conductor that has a certain resistance.
  • the heating element of the multi-zone heating member contains one or more carbon fibers.
  • a thermal transfer printing device in a second aspect there is provided a thermal transfer printing device.
  • the thermal transfer printing device includes a base, a top and a resilient heating member or a flexible heating member.
  • the heating member is elastic.
  • the base is adapted to support target matter positioned thereon.
  • This resilient heating member is in some embodiments adapted to contact target matter.
  • a respective resilient heating member may be adapted to conformably contact the source of matter to be transferred.
  • a resilient or flexible heating member is in some embodiments adapted to conformably contact both target matter and the source of matter to be transferred. In use the source of matter to be transferred may be positioned adjacent to the target matter.
  • the resilient or flexible heating member is adapted to transfer thermal energy to contacted matter such as target matter.
  • the top of the thermal transfer printing device is moveable between an idle position and a press position. In the press position the resilient or flexible heating member is sandwiched between the base and the top.
  • the resilient or flexible heating member is in some embodiments inflatable.
  • the resilient or flexible heating member of the thermal transfer printing device according to the second aspect is in communication with the top. In some embodiments the resilient or flexible heating member of the thermal transfer printing device according to the second aspect is connected to the top. In some embodiments the resilient or flexible heating member of the thermal transfer printing device according to the second aspect is in communication with the base. In some embodiments the resilient or flexible heating member of the thermal transfer printing device according to the second aspect is connected to the base.
  • the resilient or flexible heating member of the thermal transfer printing device according to the second aspect is removably connected to the top. In some embodiments the resilient or flexible heating member of the thermal transfer printing device according to the second aspect is removably connected to the base. In some
  • the target matter is a textile material.
  • the target matter essentially consists of a textile material.
  • the target matter includes a textile material.
  • the top of the thermal transfer printing device according to the second aspect is coupled to the base. In some embodiments the top of the thermal transfer printing device according to the second aspect is pivotally connected to the base. In some embodiments the base of the thermal transfer printing device according to the second aspect is moveable. In some embodiments the top of the thermal transfer printing device is pivotally connected to a body. In such embodiments the base is generally in communication with the respective body. The base may in some embodiments be connected to the respective body. In some embodiments the base is slidably connected to the body.
  • the resilient or flexible heating member of the thermal transfer printing device includes a heating zone.
  • the heating zone is adapted to transfer a particular magnitude of thermal energy to contacted target matter.
  • the heating zones is adapted to transfer a preselected magnitude of thermal energy to contacted target matter.
  • the heating zone of the resilient or flexible heating member is adapted to be capable of providing a particular temperature to a region of matter contacted therewith.
  • the heating zone of the resilient or flexible heating member is adapted to be capable of providing a preselected temperature to a region of matter contacted therewith.
  • the resilient or flexible heating member contains a plurality of heating zones. At least one heating zone of the plurality of heating zones may be adapted to independently transfer a particular thermal energy to contacted target matter. In some embodiments at least one heating zone of the plurality of heating zones is adapted to independently transfer a preselected thermal energy to contacted target matter. In some embodiments more than one heating zone of the plurality of heating zones is adapted to independently transfer a preselected thermal energy to contacted target matter. In some embodiments each heating zone of the plurality of heating zones may be adapted to
  • each heating zone of the plurality of heating zones is adapted to be capable of providing a preselected temperature to a region of matter contacted therewith.
  • a respective resilient or flexible heating member with a plurality of heating zones may in some embodiments include from about 2 to about 20 heating zones. In some embodiments the resilient or flexible heating member with a plurality of heating zones includes from about 2 to about 15 heating zones.
  • a portion of a resilient or flexible heating member of the thermal transfer printing device according to the second aspect includes a circumferential elastic cover.
  • an entire resilient or flexible heating member includes a circumferential elastic cover.
  • a respective elastic cover may be a flexible cover.
  • Such an elastic cover may include a circumferential elastic membrane.
  • a respective elastic cover may essentially consist of a circumferential elastic membrane.
  • the elastic cover may be a circumferential elastic membrane.
  • the resilient or flexible heating member of the thermal transfer printing device includes a heating element.
  • This heating element is capable of transmitting thermal energy.
  • the heating element of the resilient or flexible heating member contains one or more carbon fibers.
  • a multi-zone heating member which can be used in heat-transfer printing.
  • the multi-zone heating member includes a plurality of heating zones. At least one heating zone of the plurality of heating zones is adapted to independently transfer a particular thermal energy to contacted target matter. In some embodiments at least one heating zone of the plurality of heating zones is adapted to independently transfer a preselected thermal energy to contacted target matter. In some embodiments each heating zone of the plurality of heating zones is adapted to independently transfer a particular thermal energy to contacted target matter. In some embodiments each heating zone of the plurality of heating zones is adapted to independently transfer a preselected thermal energy to contacted target matter. In some embodiments each heating zone of the plurality of heating zones is adapted to independently provide a particular temperature to contacted target matter. In some embodiments each heating zone of the plurality of heating zones is adapted to independently provide a preselected temperature to contacted target matter.
  • the multi-zone heating member may be adapted to contact matter such as target matter.
  • the multi-zone heating member may also be adapted to contact a source of matter which is to be transferred to the target matter.
  • the multi-zone heating member is adapted to contact both target matter and a source of matter to be transferred to the target matter. In use the source of matter to be transferred to the target matter may be positioned adjacent to the target matter.
  • at least one heating zone of the multi-zone heating member according to the third aspect is adapted to be capable of providing a particular temperature to a region of matter contacted therewith.
  • At least one heating zone of the multi-zone heating member according to the third aspect is adapted to be capable of providing a preselected temperature to a region of matter contacted therewith. In some embodiments each heating zone of the multi-zone heating member according to the third aspect is adapted to be capable of providing a particular temperature to a region of matter contacted therewith. In some embodiments each heating zone of the multi-zone heating member according to the third aspect is adapted to be capable of providing a preselected temperature to a region of matter contacted therewith.
  • the multi-zone heating member according to the third aspect includes from about 2 to about 20 heating zones. In some embodiments the multi-zone heating member includes from about 2 to about 16 heating zones.
  • the multi-zone heating member according to the third aspect includes means to allow communication with a top of a thermal transfer printing device. In some embodiments the multi-zone heating member according to the third aspect includes means to allow connectivity to a top of a thermal transfer printing device. In some
  • the multi-zone heating member according to the third aspect includes means to allow communication with a base of a thermal transfer printing device. In some embodiments the multi-zone heating member according to the third aspect includes means to allow connectivity to a base of a thermal transfer printing device.
  • the multi-zone heating member according to the third aspect includes means to allow removable connectivity to a top of a thermal transfer printing device. In some embodiments the multi-zone heating member according to the third aspect includes means to allow removable connectivity to a base of a thermal transfer printing device. In some embodiments of the multi-zone heating member according to the third aspect the target matter is a textile material. In some embodiments the target matter essentially consists of a textile material. In some embodiments the target matter includes a textile material.
  • the multi-zone heating member according to the third aspect includes from about 2 to about 20 heating zones. In some embodiments the multi-zone heating member according to the third aspect includes from about 2 to about 16 heating zones.
  • the multi-zone heating member according to the third aspect is resilient.
  • the multi-zone heating member according to the third aspect may also be flexible or elastic.
  • Such a resilient or flexible multi-zone heating member may be adapted to conformably contact target matter.
  • a respective resilient or flexible multi-zone heating member may be adapted to conformably contact the source of matter to be transferred.
  • a resilient or flexible multi-zone heating member is in some embodiments adapted to conformably contact both target matter and the source of matter to be transferred.
  • a portion of a resilient or flexible multi-zone heating member includes a circumferential elastic cover.
  • an entire resilient or flexible multi-zone heating member includes a circumferential elastic cover.
  • a respective elastic cover may be a flexible cover.
  • Such an elastic cover may include a circumferential elastic membrane.
  • a respective elastic cover may essentially consist of a circumferential elastic membrane.
  • the elastic cover may be a circumferential elastic membrane.
  • a resilient or flexible multi-zone heating member according to the third aspect is in some embodiments inflatable.
  • the multi-zone heating member according to the third aspect includes a heating element. This heating element is capable of transmitting thermal energy. In some embodiments the heating element of the multi-zone heating member contains one or more carbon fibers.
  • the multi-zone heating member according to the third aspect is for incorporation into a thermal transfer printing device, to provide a thermal transfer printing device according to the first aspect.
  • the multi-zone heating member includes a plurality of heating zones. At least one heating zone of the plurality of heating zones is allowed to independently transfer a particular thermal energy to contacted target matter. In some embodiments at least one heating zone of the plurality of heating zones is allowed to independently transfer a preselected thermal energy to contacted target matter. In some embodiments each heating zone of the plurality of heating zones is allowed to independently transfer a particular thermal energy to contacted target matter. In some embodiments each heating zone of the plurality of heating zones is allowed to independently transfer a preselected thermal energy to contacted target matter.
  • the multi-zone heating member may be allowed to contact target matter.
  • the multi- zone heating member may also be allowed to contact a source of matter which is to be transferred to the target matter.
  • the multi-zone heating member is allowed to contact both target matter and a source of matter to be transferred to the target matter.
  • the source of matter to be transferred to the target matter may be positioned adjacent to the target matter.
  • At least one heating zone of the multi-zone heating member of the use according to the fourth aspect is adapted to be capable of providing a particular and/or preselected temperature to a region of matter contacted therewith. In some embodiments each heating zone of the multi-zone heating member of the use according to the fourth aspect is adapted to be capable of providing a particular temperature to a region of matter contacted therewith. In some embodiments each heating zone of the multi-zone heating member of the use according to the fourth aspect is adapted to be capable of providing a preselected temperature to a region of matter contacted therewith.
  • the multi-zone heating member of the use according to the fourth aspect includes from about 2 to about 20 heating zones. In some embodiments the multi-zone heating member of the use according to the fourth aspect includes from about 2 to about 16 heating zones.
  • a resilient, flexible or elastic heating member which can be used in heat-transfer printing.
  • the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member is adapted to conformably contact target matter and/or a source of matter to be transferred to the target matter.
  • the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member is adapted to conformably contact target matter.
  • the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member is adapted to conformably contact the source of matter to be transferred.
  • the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member is adapted to conformably contact both target matter and the source of matter to be transferred to the target matter.
  • the source of matter to be transferred to the target matter may be positioned adjacent to the target matter.
  • the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member is adapted to transfer thermal energy to contacted target matter.
  • the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member according to the fifth aspect is inflatable.
  • the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member according to the fifth aspect includes means to allow communication with a top of a thermal transfer printing device. In some embodiments the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member according to the fifth aspect includes means to allow connectivity to a top of a thermal transfer printing device. In some embodiments the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member according to the fifth aspect includes means to allow communication with a base of a thermal transfer printing device. In some embodiments the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member according to the fifth aspect includes means to allow connectivity to a base of a thermal transfer printing device.
  • the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member according to the fifth aspect includes means to allow removable connectivity to a top of a thermal transfer printing device. In some embodiments the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member according to the fifth aspect includes means to allow removable connectivity to a base of a thermal transfer printing device. In some embodiments of the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member according to the fifth aspect the target matter is a textile material. In some embodiments the target matter essentially consists of a textile material. In some embodiments the target matter includes a textile material.
  • the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member according to the fifth aspect includes a heating zone.
  • the heating zone is adapted to transfer a particular magnitude of thermal energy to contacted target matter.
  • the heating zone of the resilient heating member is adapted to transfer a preselected magnitude of thermal energy to contacted target matter.
  • the heating zone of the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member is adapted to be capable of providing a particular and/or a preselected temperature to a region of matter contacted therewith.
  • the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member contains a plurality of heating zones. At least one heating zone of the plurality of heating zones may be adapted to independently transfer a particular thermal energy to contacted target matter. In some embodiments at least one heating zone may be adapted to independently transfer a preselected thermal energy to contacted target matter.
  • At least one heating zone of the plurality of heating zones is adapted to be capable of providing a particular and/or preselected temperature to a region of matter contacted therewith.
  • each heating zone of the plurality of heating zones may be adapted to independently transfer a particular thermal energy to contacted target matter.
  • each heating zone of the plurality of heating zones may be adapted to independently transfer a preselected thermal energy to contacted target matter.
  • each heating zone of the plurality of heating zones is adapted to be capable of providing a particular and/or preselected temperature to a region of matter contacted therewith.
  • a respective resilient, flexible or elastic heating member with a plurality of heating zones may in some embodiments include from about 2 to about 20 heating zones. In some embodiments the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member with a plurality of heating zones includes from about 2 to about 16 heating zones.
  • a portion of a resilient, flexible or elastic heating member according to the fifth aspect includes a circumferential elastic cover.
  • an entire resilient, flexible or elastic heating member includes a circumferential elastic cover.
  • a respective elastic cover may be a flexible cover.
  • Such an elastic cover may include a
  • a respective elastic cover may essentially consist of a circumferential elastic membrane.
  • the elastic cover may be a circumferential elastic membrane.
  • the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member according to the fifth aspect includes a heating element.
  • This heating element is capable of transmitting thermal energy.
  • the heating element of the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member contains one or more carbon fibers.
  • the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member according to the third aspect is for incorporation into a thermal transfer printing device, to provide a thermal transfer printing device according to the second aspect.
  • a resilient, flexible or elastic heating member in heat-transfer printing.
  • the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member is allowed to conformably contact target matter and/or a source of matter to be transferred to the target matter.
  • the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member is allowed to conformably contact target matter.
  • the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member is allowed to conformably contact the source of matter to be transferred.
  • the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member is allowed to conformably contact both target matter and the source of matter to be transferred to the target matter.
  • the source of matter to be transferred to the target matter may be positioned adjacent to the target matter.
  • the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member is allowed to transfer thermal energy to contacted target matter.
  • the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member of the use according to the sixth aspect is inflatable.
  • a method of thermally transferring matter onto a target material includes positioning the target material onto a base. The method also includes positioning a source of the matter to be transferred to the target material onto the base.
  • the base includes a heating member.
  • the heating member is in some embodiments a multi-zone heating member.
  • the multi-zone heating member includes a plurality of heating zones. Each heating zone is adapted to independently transfer a particular thermal energy to the target material. In some embodiments each heating zone is adapted to independently transfer a preselected thermal energy to the target material.
  • the heating member is a resilient, flexible or elastic heating member. In some embodiments the heating member is an inflatable heating member. In some embodiments a resilient heating member is an inflatable heating member.
  • the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member is allowed to conformably contact the target material.
  • the heating member is a resilient, flexible or elastic multi-zone heating member.
  • the method further includes positioning a top onto the source of matter to be transferred and the target material. As a result the target material is allowed to be sandwiched between the top and the base.
  • the heating member provides communication with the base.
  • the method also includes applying thermal energy to the target material via the heating member.
  • at least one heating zone of the multi-zone heating member is allowed to transfer a particular thermal energy to the target matter.
  • at least one heating zone of the multi-zone heating member is allowed to transfer a preselected thermal energy to the target matter.
  • each heating zone of a multi-zone heating member is allowed to independently transfer a preselected thermal energy to the target matter.
  • the method includes applying pressure to the target material.
  • At least one heating zone of the multi-zone heating member is allowed to provide a particular temperature to a region of the target matter. In some embodiments at least one heating zone of the multi-zone heating member is allowed to provide a preselected temperature to a region of the target matter. In some embodiments each heating zone of a multi-zone heating member is allowed to independently provide a particular and/or a preselected temperature to a region of the target matter.
  • At least one heating zone of the multi-zone heating member corresponds to a portion of the target matter. In some embodiments each heating zone of a multi-zone heating member corresponds to a portion of the target matter.
  • this multi-zone heating member may in some embodiments include from about 2 to about 20 heating zones. In some embodiments a multi-zone heating member used in a method according to the seventh aspect includes from about 2 to about 16 heating zones.
  • applying thermal energy includes applying thermal energy of independently selected magnitude via each heating zone of a multi-zone heating member.
  • applying thermal energy to the target matter comprises exposing at least a portion of the target matter to a particular constant elevated temperature. In some embodiments applying thermal energy to the target matter comprises exposing at least a portion of the target matter to a preselected constant elevated temperature.
  • applying pressure to the target material comprises allowing a fluid to enter the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member.
  • a method of thermally transferring matter onto a target material includes positioning the target material onto a base.
  • the method also includes positioning a source of the matter to be transferred to the target material onto the base.
  • the method also includes positioning a top onto the target material and onto the source of matter to be transferred to the target material.
  • the method includes positioning a heating member onto the target material and onto the source of matter to be transferred to the target material.
  • the heating member is in some embodiments a multi- zone heating member.
  • the multi-zone heating member includes a plurality of heating zones. At least one heating zone is adapted to independently transfer a particular thermal energy to the target matter. This particular thermal energy may be a preselected thermal energy.
  • each heating zone is adapted to independently transfer a particular thermal energy to the target matter.
  • each heating zone is adapted to independently transfer a preselected thermal energy to the target matter.
  • the heating member is a resilient, flexible or elastic heating member.
  • the heating member is an inflatable heating member.
  • a resilient, flexible or elastic heating member is an inflatable heating member.
  • the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member is allowed to conformably contact the target material.
  • the heating member is a resilient, flexible or elastic multi- zone heating member. By positioning the heating member onto the target material, the target material is allowed to be sandwiched between the top and the base. The heating member provides communication with the top.
  • the method also includes applying thermal energy to the target material via the heating member. Where a multi-zone heating member is employed, at least one heating zone of the multi-zone heating member is allowed to transfer a particular thermal energy to the target matter.
  • At least one heating zone of the multi-zone heating member is allowed to transfer a preselected thermal energy to the target matter. In some embodiments each heating zone of the multi-zone heating member is allowed to independently transfer a particular and/or preselected thermal energy to the target matter. Furthermore the method includes applying pressure to the target material.
  • At least one heating zone of the multi-zone heating member corresponds to a region of the target matter.
  • At least one heating zone of the multi-zone heating member is allowed to provide a particular and/or preselected temperature to a region of the target matter. In some embodiments each heating zone of the multi-zone heating member is allowed to independently provide a particular temperature to a region of the target matter. In some embodiments each heating zone of the multi-zone heating member is allowed to
  • the multi-zone heating member includes from about 2 to about 20 heating zones. In some embodiments the multi-zone heating member of the thermal transfer printing device according to the first aspect includes from about 2 to about 16 heating zones.
  • applying thermal energy includes applying thermal energy of independently selected magnitude via each heating zone of the multi-zone heating member.
  • applying thermal energy to the target matter comprises exposing at least a portion of the target matter to a particular and/or a preselected constant elevated temperature.
  • applying pressure to the target material comprises allowing a fluid to enter the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member.
  • kits for equipping a thermal transfer printing device with a multi-zone heating member includes a multi-zone heating member according to the third aspect.
  • the kit further includes means for connecting the multi-zone heating member to the top or to the base of a thermal transfer printing device.
  • the kit according to the ninth aspect further includes a control module for controlling the multi-zone heating member.
  • the control module is generally connectable to the multi-zone heating member.
  • the control module may be capable of setting and/or adjusting the amount of thermal energy provided by the multi-zone heating member, for example by a heating element that is included in the multi-zone heating member.
  • the control module is connectable to a heating element that is included in the multi-zone heating member.
  • kits for equipping a thermal transfer printing device with a resilient, flexible or elastic heating member includes a resilient, flexible or elastic heating member according to the fifth aspect.
  • the kit further includes means for connecting the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member to the top or to the base of a thermal transfer printing device.
  • the kit according to the tenth aspect further includes a control module for controlling the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member.
  • the control module is generally connectable to the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member.
  • the control module may be capable of setting and/or adjusting the amount of thermal energy provided by the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member, for example by a heating element that is included in the resilient heating member.
  • the control module is connectable to a heating element that is included in the resilient, flexible or elastic heating member.
  • Figure 1 depicts a thermal transfer printing device with a resilient heating member (41).
  • the device further includes a top (42), a base (43) and a body (44), which includes an arm (44a).
  • Top (42) and base (43) are connected to a body (44).
  • Fig. 1A a resting/start position
  • Fig. IB the position of the base (43) is adjusted
  • Fig. 1C the top (42) is positioned above the base (43) such that the heating member (41) is sandwiched between the top and the base
  • Fig. ID the heating member (41) is being inflated, thermal energy and pressure can be applied
  • Fig. IE the heating member (41) is deflated, and the top (42) is lifted from the base (43);
  • Fig. IF the device is brought into the resting/start position.
  • Figure 2 depicts a multi-zone heating member.
  • Fig. 2A The heating member has two zones (1) and (2).
  • Fig. 2B The heating member has three zones (1), (3), and (4).
  • Fig. 2C The heating member has four zones (1), (5), (6) and (7).
  • Fig. 2D The heating member has five zones (8), (9), (10), (11) and (12).
  • Fig. 2E The heating member has nine zones (13), (14), (15), (16), (17), (18), (19), (20), and (21).
  • Fig. 2F The heating member has ten zones (22), (23), (24), (25), (26), (27), (28), (29), (30) and (31).
  • FIG. 3 shows the arrangement and usage of zones of a multi-zone heating member for imprinting lettering onto a T shirt (32).
  • the design of the heating zones corresponds to the design of Fig. 2C.
  • Inactive heating zones are depicted as hatched, and active heating zones as clear areas.
  • Fig. 3 A depicts the front of the T shirt (32), onto which the number "19" and the wording "copa mundial 2014" is to be printed.
  • Zones 35 and 39 are two active heating zones, which are independently used for applying an elevated temperature. Zones 33 and 37 are not being used for applying thermal energy.
  • Fig. 3B depicts the back of the T shirt (32), onto which the word “striker” and the number "19” is to be printed.
  • Zones 34, 36 and 38 are three active heating zones covering the area where lettering is to be printed. These three heating zones of the heating member are used for applying an elevated
  • Zone 40 is not being used for applying thermal energy.
  • the word “about” as used herein refers to a value being within an acceptable error range for the particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art, which will depend in part on how the value is measured or determined, i.e., the limitations of the measurement system. For example, “about” can mean within 1 or more than 1 standard deviation, per the practice in the art. The term “about” is also used to indicate that the amount or value in question may be the value designated or some other value that is approximately the same. The phrase is intended to convey that similar values promote equivalent results or effects according to the invention. In this context "about” may refer to a range above and/or below of up to 10%.
  • the word “about” refers in some embodiments to a range above and below a certain value that is up to 5%, such as up to up to 2%, up to 1%, or up to 0.5 % above or below that value. In one embodiment “about” refers to a range up to 0.1 % above and below a given value.
  • the term "conformable” as used herein refers to the compliance property of a resilient heating member, which is the result of an adaptive behaviour of the surface of the same.
  • a resilient heating member When contacting target matter a resilient heating member is sufficiently compliant to conform to the surface of target material Thereby an at least essentially uniform contact with target matter is provided
  • the term "in communication” refers to the possibility of mechanic and/or electric interaction between elements of a device or between devices. Typically a link is involved, which may involve additional elements and/or devices. In some embodiments elements and/or devices are in communication if they are adjacent, in the general vicinity, in close proximity, or next to each other. In some embodiments elements and/or devices in communication with each other are coupled to each other. In some embodiments elements and/or devices in communication with each other are connected to each other. As an example, where a heating member is in communication with the top or with the base of a thermal transfer printing device, the heating member may be connected to the top or the base, possibly additional elements may be arranged between heating member and top or base, as applicable.
  • a base is in communication with a body of a thermal transfer printing device, the base may be coupled to the body, possibly via one or more elements that may for example serve in adjusting or modifying the position of the base relative to the body.
  • resilient refers to an adaptive behaviour of the surface of a heating member when contacting target matter. A resilient heating member tends to retain its shape and size when being deformed. When contacting an uneven surface or otherwise being subjected to a compression force the resilient heating member tends to recover its original shape and size when such force is removed. The resilient heating member can thus be re-used for transferring matter to target material As already indicated above, a resilient heating member is in some embodiments flexible. In some embodiments it is elastic.
  • source of matter may refer to material that includes the respective matter or to material that provides the respective matter upon exposure to an elevated temperature and/or elevated pressure.
  • the source of matter is a material that is converted to the respective matter upon exposure to an elevated temperature and/or elevated pressure.
  • a “source of matter to be transferred” refers to a material that includes the matter that is to be received by the target matter, or to material that provides matter that is to be received by the target matter.
  • Matter to be transferred includes, but is not limited to, a colouring compound such as a dye, a composition that includes a dye, matter such as a film or a fabric that includes a dye, and a rhinestone.
  • a film that includes a dye may include a polymer. Matter such as a film or a fabric that includes a dye may for instance have a coating that includes the dye.
  • the matter to be transferred includes a dye or a reflective substance as the matter to be transferred
  • the matter to be transferred may in some embodiments include an organic pigment or an inorganic pigment. A variety of such pigments are known in the art.
  • the matter to be transferred is included in a wax.
  • the matter to be transferred is included in a resin, such as an acrylic resin, a rubber resin, a ketone resin, or a formaldehyde resin, for example.
  • a resin such as an acrylic resin, a rubber resin, a ketone resin, or a formaldehyde resin, for example.
  • a large number of suitable resins are commercially available.
  • the matter to be transferred is included in a paper.
  • the matter to be transferred is included in a polymer film.
  • Illustrative examples of a suitable polymer include, but are not limited to, a polyester, a copolyamide, or polyurethane.
  • the target may include any material as long as the target is capable of accepting the matter to be transferred under conditions of altered pressure, such as reduced pressure when compared to standard atmospheric pressure, and under conditions of elevated temperature when compared to room temperature.
  • a suitable material which the target may include, may serve, without being limited thereto, paper, fabric, plastic material, ceramic and wood
  • the target material may be a tile.
  • the target material may be a doll
  • the target material may be a folding rule.
  • the target material may be a metal plate.
  • a method disclosed herein is or includes a method of printing onto a textile material In some embodiments a method disclosed herein is or includes a method of providing a barcode label In some embodiments a method disclosed herein is included in a method of providing an article of clothing.
  • a printing device disclosed herein includes a base, a top and a heating member.
  • the top and the base may include any solid material capable of standing the conditions to be applied to the target material
  • a top and a base of any commercially available thermo transfer printer may be employed
  • the base may in some embodiments be capable of taking different positions, for example to facilitate positioning a target material thereon.
  • the base may in some embodiments be moveable relative to the top.
  • the top may in some embodiments be linked to the base.
  • the top and the base may be in communication via a body.
  • the top and the base may for instance both be connected to such a body.
  • the base may in some embodiments be moveable relative to such a body.
  • the top is in some embodiments pivotally connected to the base. In some embodiments the top is pivotally connected to the body, if present.
  • the base and the heating member or the top and the heating member are connected to each other.
  • the top and the heating member are typically designed to be capable of contacting each other.
  • the top typically has a surface area designed to contact a surface area of the heating member.
  • the base and the heating member are typically designed to be capable of contacting each other.
  • the base typically has a surface area designed to contact a surface area of the heating member.
  • a surface area of the top designed to contact a surface area of the heating member is in some
  • a surface area of the base designed to contact a surface area of the heating member is in some embodiments essentially planar.
  • a respective surface area providing releasable contact between the base and the heating member may define a plane.
  • a surface area providing releasable contact between the top and the heating member may likewise define a plane. Any such surface area may, within the plane defined, correspond to a certain portion of the entire extent that the base, and the top, respectively, defines in that plane. This portion of the entire extent of the base or the top in the respective plane may be about one third or more. In some embodiments the respective surface area, within the plane defined, correspond to about half or about two thirds or more of the entire extent that the base, and the top, respectively, defines in that plane.
  • one or more of the base, the top and the heating member define a plane.
  • each of the base, the top and the heating member define a plane.
  • the planes of the base and of the heating member may be essentially parallel to each other.
  • the planes of the top and of the heating member may also be essentially parallel to each other.
  • the planes of the base, of the heating member, and of the top are be essentially parallel to each other.
  • the heating member is generally sandwiched between the top and the base. In operation, there are typically contact areas between the heating member and the top and between the heating member and the base. At least one of the contact area between the heating member and the top and the contact area between the heating member and the base may be essentially planar.
  • the extent of the heating member in this plane may account for at least one third of the entire dimensions of the top, and the base, respectively within this plane.
  • the extent of the heating member in this plane may account for at least half or at least two thirds of the entire dimensions of the top, and the base, respectively within this plane.
  • the heating member of the printing device is adapted to contact the target material.
  • a particular surface area of the heating member will contact the target material.
  • the heating member has a surface that corresponds or is adapted to correspond to a region of the target matter.
  • This region of the target matter is generally the region of the target matter that is known and/or expected to contact the heating member.
  • a surface that corresponds to a region of the target matter is of a size that allows contact between the respective surface and the surface of the region of the target matter.
  • a surface that corresponds to a region of the target matter has a topography that allows contact between the respective surface and the surface of the region of the target matter.
  • a surface that corresponds to a region of the target matter may be of a size and/or of a topography that allows large-area contact with the respective area of the target material.
  • more that 50 % of the surface area of the selected region of the target material may be in direct contact with the corresponding surface of the heating member.
  • 70 % or more of the surface area of the selected region of the target material may be in direct contact with the corresponding surface of the heating member.
  • 90 % or more of the surface area of the selected region of the target material may be in direct contact with the corresponding surface of the heating member.
  • a surface that corresponds to a region of the target matter is of a size and or of a topography that at least essentially matches the size and/or of topography of the respective area of the target material As noted, this area of the target material is typically the portion of the heating member that is known and/or expected to contact the target material
  • the heating member contains a resilient portion.
  • the heating member may also contain a flexible portion and/or an elastic portion.
  • This resilient portion is typically a surface portion.
  • Such a resilient portion may be the portion of the heating member that is known and/or expected to contact the target material
  • the entire heating member has a resilient surface.
  • the entire heating member is resilient.
  • the entire heating member may also be elastic and/or flexible.
  • the heating member is removably connected to at least one of the top and the base.
  • the heating member is in some embodiments a multi-zone heating member.
  • a heating member may include any desired number of heating zones. In some embodiments a heating member may include 4 or more, including 5 or more heating zones.
  • a multi-zone heating member may in some embodiments include from about 2 to about 12 heating zones. Each of the heating zones may be adapted to independently transfer a preselected magnitude of thermal energy to contacted target matter. In some embodiments a multi-zone heating member includes one or more additional zones that are not heating zones, i.e. they are not adapted to transfer thermal energy to contacted target matter.
  • a multi-zone heating member may in some embodiments include two or more, including three or more heating zones. Into a heating zone, where a plurality of heating zones is present typically into each heating zone, there are generally one or more heating elements such as heating resistors incorporated A heating zone may in some embodiments include two or more, including three or more heating elements.
  • a heating zone of a thermal transfer printing device as disclosed herein may have any desired dimensions.
  • a heating zone is generally defined by a surface that is capable of contacting target matter, and transferring thermal energy thereto. In typical embodiments such a heating zone is defined by an area of 0.2 cm 2 or more. In embodiments where a multi- zone heating member is provided, each zone is typically defined by an area of 0.2 cm 2 or more. In some embodiments a heating zone is defined by an area of 1 cm 2 or more. In some embodiments a heating zone is defined by an area of 10,000 cm 2 or less. In some embodiments a heating zone is defined by an area of 1000 cm 2 or less. In some embodiments a heating zone is defined by an area of 400 cm 2 or less.
  • a heating element includes a heating circuit. Any conventional resistance wire may be employed in this regard as an illustrative example, a wirewound resistor, connected to a power source, may be employed In embodiments where a plurality of heating zones is included in a heating member, each heating zone may include at least one heating circuit. Each of these heating circuits may be operated independent from the other heating circuits present in the heating member.
  • suitable heating elements are heating elements that are commercially available from Mickenhagen (Ludenscheid, Germany), for example elements Mica flat heaters BHP30 of stainless steel Suitable Mica thermofoil® heaters are available from Minco (Minneapolis, MN, U.S.A.), for example model No. HM6800, which is available with a variety in lead length, resistance and insulation thickness.
  • the heating elements of a heating member may be connected to a controller.
  • the controller may be configured to set the thermal energy provided by each heating element. Using a respective controller the temperature operation of a method disclosed herein may be configured in advance, and be adjusted while performing the method if desired.
  • the controller may address each heating zone of the multi-zone heating member in an independent manner.
  • the controller also termed "control module" herein, may also be capable of setting and/or adjusting the period of time during which thermal energy is being provided by the heating member. Where a multi-zone heating member is used, the controller may control the period of heating time for each individual heating zone independent from the heating time of any other heating zone.
  • the heating member may in some embodiments include one or more sensors.
  • a respective sensor may detect the temperature of the surface of the heating member or the temperature of the surface of the target material.
  • a sensor included in the heating member may be connected to a control unit and serve as a feed-back that allows adjusting the amount of thermal energy provided by the heating member, including by a heating element included in a heating member. Values provided by a sensor may also be verified by a control unit as to whether a critical value is being exceeded. In such a case the control unit may initiate a fast deactivation of a heating member, in case of a multi zone heating member deactivation of one or more, including all heating zones.
  • a sensor included in a heating member may initiate a fast deactivation of a heating member, in case of a multi zone heating member deactivation of one or more, including all heating zones.
  • a sensor included in a heating member may also be a contact sensor. Such a contact sensor may serve in verifying that proper contact between heating member and target material is being achieved. Similar sensors may be included in other areas of the printing device. As an illustrative example, a contact sensor in the base may serve in verifying that target material has been properly positioned thereon.
  • each heating zone can be addressed separately via control means.
  • the intensity of radiation energy provided by each heating zone can be controlled on an individual basis.
  • the temperature provided by each heating zone for example the temperature provided to matter contacting the heating zone, can be controlled on an individual basis.
  • the intensity of radiation energy provided by particular heating zones may be set as varying over time, while the radiation energy provided by particular heating zones may be set as constant over time.
  • the intensity of radiation energy provided by all heating zones may be set as constant over time, with the intensity of radiation energy provided by particular heating zones being different from one another.
  • the intensity of radiation energy provided by particular heating zones may be set to be identical to particular other heating, zones but different from particular further heating zones. In some
  • the temperature provided by particular heating zones may be set to be constant, whereas the temperature provided by particular other heating zones may be set to be varying over time.
  • the temperature provided by all heating zones may be set to be constant over time, where the temperature provided by particular heating zones may be at least essentially identical to the temperature provided by particular other heating zones, however different from the temperature provided by yet further particular heating zones.
  • the temperature provided by all heating zones may be set to be constant over time, and the temperature provided by all heating zones may be set to be the same.
  • the selection which thermal energy will be applied by which heating zone of a heating member with a plurality of heating zones will generally be taken according to the matter applied to target material, and in particular according to the areas of target material to which matter is to be applied.
  • a graphic, a text, a logo or a design may be desired to be printed onto a plastic material or onto a fabric.
  • the heating member may be designed to cover a large area or essentially the entire area of the respective plastic material or fabric.
  • the graphic, text, logo or design to be printed may only cover a certain fraction of the total number of the heating zones of the heating member.
  • those heating zones that do not cover any areas where graphic, text, logo or design is to be printed may be left unused and accordingly remain deactivated when carrying out the method.
  • energy and time may be saved.
  • those areas of the target material, e.g. plastic material or fabric, where no matter is to be transferred to remain unexposed to elevated temperatures. This may be for instance be particularly advantageous in case of fabric that is to be stained by means of sublimation, for example fabric having a high content of polyester such as softshell fabric or knitwear.
  • the dimensions of a heating zone in embodiments with a plurality of heating zones the dimensions of an individual heating zone, may be selected as desired. In embodiments with a plurality of heating zones the dimensions of each individual heating zone may be selected independently from the dimensions of other heating zones.
  • the width of a heating zone in a particular dimension in the plane in which target matter is contacted is generally selected in the range from about a millimetre to about 10 meters, depending on the intended purpose. In most typical embodiments of transferring matter to items of daily goods the dimensions of a heating zone will be selected in the centimetre range, such as in the range from about 0.5 to about 20 cm.
  • the width of a heating zone in one dimension may be different from the width of a heating zone in another dimension.
  • a particular heating zone may be of circular shape, ellipsoid shape or the shape of an egg.
  • a particular heating zone may have the shape of a letter such as e.g. letters V or U.
  • An individual heating zone may have the shape of any oligoedron.
  • a particular heating zone may have the shape of a triangle.
  • a particular heating zone may have the shape of a rectangle or of a square.
  • a particular heating zone may have the shape of a five-sided figure, i.e. a pentagon.
  • a particular heating zone may have the shape of a hexagon.
  • a particular heating zone may in some embodiments have the shape of a heptagon or of an octagon.
  • a particular heating zone may have the shape of a combination of one or more of the aforementioned examples.
  • each individual heating member may be selected independent from the shape and size of any other heating member.
  • the surface areas of all heating zones are of about the same area.
  • all heating zones of a heating member are different in shape and size.
  • certain heating zones of a heating member are different in shape and/or size from particular other heating zones, but at least essentially identical in shape and/or size to particular other heating zones.
  • all heating zones of a heating member are different in shape but not in size.
  • all heating members may have circular, rectangular or triangular shape, or any combination thereof, but have at least essentially the same area in terms of cm 2 , m 2 or mm 2 . In some embodiments all heating zones of a heating member are different in shape and size.
  • the heating member includes in some embodiments an area of an at least essentially smooth surface. In some embodiments the entire heating member has an at least essentially smooth surface.
  • the heating member includes in some embodiments an area with an at least essentially elastic surface. In some embodiments the entire heating member has an at least elastic smooth surface. In some embodiments the heating member includes an area that is capable of conforming to the surface of target matter. An area of the heating member may for example be able to attune to the surface characteristics, in particular the topography, of target matter.
  • the heating member may include a resilient area. In some embodiments the entire heating member may have a resilient surface.
  • the heating member is inflatable.
  • the heating member may for example be uniformly inflatable in all its dimensions.
  • the heating member may be inflatable in a direction that at least essentially corresponds to the direction in which target matter contacts the heating member.
  • the heating member can be inflated by influx of a fluid such as a gas or a liquid.
  • a respective fluid has a particular preselected temperature that differs from the temperature of the ambience.
  • Such a fluid may for example have a particular preselected temperature that is higher than the temperature of the ambience.
  • influx of a fluid into the heating member is achieved via a connection means such as tubing.
  • the connection means may include an orifice.
  • the connection means may include a valve.
  • Respective connection means may be provided by a top or a base of a printing device disclosed herein. A reservoir containing the respective fluid used may be in communication with the inflatable heating member.
  • the heating member may include a circumferential elastic film such as an elastic membrane.
  • a heating member that is inflatable may for example include a circumferential elastic film.
  • a respective elastic film may cover any desired portion of the heating member.
  • the entire heating member may be enclosed in a circumferential elastic film, such as an elastic membrane.
  • An elastic film may include a polymeric substance such as an elastomer.
  • An elastic film may for instance include a gum or natural rubber.
  • An illustrative example of a suitable elastic film is a silicone film.
  • the heating member includes a resilient area, such as a resilient pad or a resilient mat.
  • the heating member may for example include a silicone (polysiloxane) pad or mat.
  • the heating member includes a plurality of resilient areas, for instance a plurality of resilient pads.
  • Each resilient area, including each resilient pad may have an individually selected resilience.
  • each resilient area, including each resilient pad may have a resilience that differs from the resilience of one or more other resilient areas of the heating member.
  • a user interface may be provided.
  • the user interface may allow a user to pre-select conditions and to configure individual steps of a method as disclosed herein.
  • the user interface may allow configuring a controller in advance.
  • the user interface may also allow configuring a controller during operation, i.e. while a method described herein is already being carried out.
  • target material is positioned on the base of the thermal transfer printing device used.
  • the base may be any suitable element such as a conventional plate.
  • thermal energy is typically transferred from a heating member or a heating element to target matter.
  • Thermal energy may also be transferred from a heating member or a heating element to target matter.
  • the heating member includes a heating zone, in which an individually selected temperature can be established by providing thermal energy of appropriate intensity.
  • the heating member includes two or more heating zones. In each of the two or more heating zones an individually selected temperature can be established by providing thermal energy of appropriate intensity.
  • One or more, including all of the one more heating zones of a respective heating member may be in contact with the target material and/or the matter to be
  • target material and/or the matter to be transferred is generally exposed to an elevated temperature by thermal energy provided by the heating member of a printing device described herein.
  • the target material and/or the matter to be transferred is exposed to a temperature of about 50 °C or more.
  • the target material and/or the matter to be transferred is exposed to a temperature of about 100 °C or more.
  • the target material and/or the matter to be transferred is exposed to a temperature of about 150 °C or more.
  • the target material and/or the matter to be transferred is exposed to a temperature of 100 °C or more.
  • the target material and/or the matter to be transferred may be subjected to a heating cycle while being subjected to an elevated pressure.
  • the target material and/or the matter to be transferred may be subjected to a plurality of heating cycles.
  • the matter to be transferred is exposed to an elevated temperature together with the target material.
  • An elevated pressure used in a method disclosed herein is a pressure above standard atmospheric pressure, which is a pressure of 101.325 kPa.
  • a pressure in the range from about 10 kPa to about 200 kPa, including from about 15 kPa to about 100 kPa, such as in the range from about 20 kPa to about 80 kPa is employed.
  • a combination of a particular pressure and a particular temperature will be taken. The skilled person is aware that the choice of the pressure and the temperature is typically a balance, where increasing one of the two factors pressure and temperature allows decreasing the other factor.
  • a method described herein is typically a digital printing method.
  • a method described herein may be an offset printing method.
  • each heating zone may be operated independent from any other heating zone, cf. above.
  • an elastic and/or flexible heating member may be used.
  • the heating member may be of an elasticity and/or flexibility to allow even contact with target material even where the target material includes surface unevenness.
  • the elasticity and/or flexibility of a heating member may for example allow even contact already upon contacting the target material. Such a property may be taken to be compensating surface topography, e.g. surface irregularities.
  • a heating member may be inflatable. Where an inflatable heating member is used, in the course of a method disclosed herein a fluid is being introduced into the heating member. Generally the heating member is thereby expanded from a relaxed to a stiff state. The equal distribution of pressure in the inflatable heating member results in a unitary interaction with target material.
  • the pressure applied by inflating the heating member acts on any surface portion of the heating member/target material contact surface. This effect de facto evens up any surface irregularities. As long as the surface material of the heating member is extendible to a sufficient degree, no damage is done to the surface of the heating member.
  • the heating member is inflatable, for instance where it includes a circumferential elastic film, it may be filled with liquid such as air in the method. Filling an inflatable heating member may for example be carried out when a pressure is applied to the target material. As a result, the heating member expands in the direction where it contains elastic material. Generally the heating member expands in the direction of the target material. Thereby the heating member conforms with the surface properties of the target matter. Such a property is also termed an "intelligent deposition" in the art.
  • a multi-zone heating member a resilient heating member, a flexible heating member and an elastic heating member.
  • These heating members have already been described in the context of a thermal transfer printing device with a multi-zone heating member, and with a resilient heating member, respectively, above.
  • kits for forming a thermal transfer printing device with a multi-zone heating member and a kit for forming a thermal transfer printing device with a resilient heating member.
  • the kit is a kit for forming a thermal transfer printing device with a resilient multi-zone heating member.
  • a respective kit includes parts that allow turning a conventional thermal transfer printing device into a thermal transfer printing device as disclosed herein.
  • the kit includes a multi-zone heating member and/or a resilient heating member.
  • the kit further includes mounting for attaching the respective heating member to a conventional thermal transfer printing device.
  • the kit may further include a controller as described above.
  • the present invention is directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and/or method described herein.
  • any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods, if such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods are not mutually inconsistent, is included within the scope of the present invention.
  • a thermal transfer printing device as shown in Fig. 1 was manufactured as follows. Metal parts:
  • the body (44) was formed from 10 mm black steel ST-52. Side portions of the dimensions of approximately 450 mm length and 350 mm height were formed by laser cutting and subsequent folding and welding. They were finally equipped with boreholings, having sizes from 3 to 20 mm.
  • the top (42) and the base (43) were formed from aluminum plates in a milling center. They had dimensions of 400 x 500 mm and a thickness of 15 mm.
  • the press-arm (44a) of body (44) consisted of tool steel with profile of 30x40 mm and a length of 450 mm. It was processed in a CNC drilling center.
  • a cover plate on the body (44) for quick access was processed in a milling center, and consisted of alumina. It had dimensions of 135x150 mm, with a thickness of 15 mm.
  • Further cover panels and screens of the printing device consisted of aluminium sheets of a thickness of 1.5 mm, and were formed by laser cutting and subsequent folding and welding.
  • the base (43) was a plate that included a linear guide.
  • This linear guide was obtained from Schneeberger GmbH (Hofen/Enz, Germany).
  • the system consisted of four carriages with dimensions of 46 x 27 mm as well as two hardened profile rails of stainless steel, having a length of 340 mm.
  • the body (44) contained a compact cylinder Festo (Esslingen-Berkheim, Germany)
  • ADVU 50-100 with a swivel head of type SGS At 6 bar of operating pressure is had a force of 1060 N. Its dimensions were 68 mm (length) x 68 mm (width) x 203 mm (height), when contracted, together with attached swivel head SGS. In expanded condition it had a height of 303 mm, together with attached swivel head SGS.
  • Valves for controlling the pneumatic were included in form of three upstream three/two- way valves.
  • the heating members were subsequently affixed to the top (42) and/or the base plate (43), and connected to the electric circuit and the pneumatics.
  • the multi-zone heating members were manufactured by Qpoint Composite GmbH
  • the printing device is being operated as follows.
  • target material such as a textile can be positioned by a user (not shown in Fig. 1A).
  • a source of matter to be transferred to the target material for example a film, can be placed onto the target material.
  • a user may then manually push the base plate (43) out of the resting position depicted in Fig. 1A.
  • Means for securing the base plate (43) in and into a working position may be included in the printing device.
  • a spring and a microswitch were employed (not shown), where the spring draws the base plate (43) in to reach the working position, namely on the last 5 cm. Thereby the microswitch is being operated. An optic and/or acoustic signal may then signalize that the working position has been reached.
  • the body (44) includes a double-acting cylinder, which is being actuated to extend.
  • the extending cylinder lowers an arm (44a) of the body (44) and locks it in a final lowered position.
  • the top (42) which is in this example also a plate, and which is attached to the to the respective arm, is being positioned directly above the base plate (43), as depicted in Fig. 1C.
  • a pre-press function is included in a printing method.
  • Expansion of the inflatable heating member (41) is carried out for a fixed pre-selected period of time, which is 5 seconds in the present example. Thereafter the three/two-way valve is being switched, such that air is being released from the inflatable heating member (41).
  • the press defined by the thermal transfer printing device opens and the base plate (43) moves out of its working position.
  • a source of matter to be transferred to the target material e.g. a textile, such as a film, can be placed onto the target material, e.g. textile.
  • the user pushes the base plate (43) in the direction of the working position, and the microswitch is again actuated.
  • the press defined by the thermal transfer printing device closes and the inflatable heating member (41) is being filled with air for a period of time pre-selected by the user.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Textile Engineering (AREA)
  • Decoration By Transfer Pictures (AREA)
  • Electronic Switches (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un élément chauffant qui est un élément chauffant souple et/ou multizone. L'élément chauffant fait partie d'un dispositif d'impression de transfert thermique, ou peut être conçu pour être inclus dans un dispositif d'impression de transfert thermique. Lors de son utilisation, l'élément chauffant est autorisé à entrer en contact avec une matière cible et/ou une source de matière à transférer à la matière cible. Chaque zone de chauffage de l'élément chauffant multi-zone est autorisée à transférer indépendamment une énergie thermique présélectionnée à mettre en contact avec une matière cible. L'élément chauffant souple est autorisé à entrer en contact de façon conforme avec une matière cible et/ou une source de matière à transférer à la matière cible.
PCT/EP2015/065222 2014-07-04 2015-07-03 Dispositif et procédé d'impression thermique sur une cible WO2016001413A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP14175869.8 2014-07-04
EP14175869.8A EP2962856B1 (fr) 2014-07-04 2014-07-04 Dispositif et procédé d'impression thermique d'une cible

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2016001413A1 true WO2016001413A1 (fr) 2016-01-07

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PCT/EP2015/065222 WO2016001413A1 (fr) 2014-07-04 2015-07-03 Dispositif et procédé d'impression thermique sur une cible

Country Status (2)

Country Link
EP (1) EP2962856B1 (fr)
WO (1) WO2016001413A1 (fr)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US10093110B2 (en) 2017-01-25 2018-10-09 Toshiba Tec Kabushiki Kaisha Printing apparatus and printing method

Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0572999A1 (fr) * 1992-06-04 1993-12-08 EIDOS S.p.A. Procédé et équipement pour imprimer une image sur un article
DE19706295A1 (de) * 1997-02-18 1998-08-27 Tampoflex Gmbh Verfahren zum Drucken von Mustern
EP2284014A1 (fr) * 2008-05-29 2011-02-16 Kabushiki Kaisha Sato Imprimante thermique
EP2298561A1 (fr) * 2009-09-16 2011-03-23 Toshiba TEC Kabushiki Kaisha Mécanisme de tête thermique, dispositif d'impression l'utilisant et procédé de prise en charge de tête thermique
WO2014082133A1 (fr) 2012-11-30 2014-06-05 Digitool Products Pty Ltd Procédé d'impression sur un matériau textile

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0572999A1 (fr) * 1992-06-04 1993-12-08 EIDOS S.p.A. Procédé et équipement pour imprimer une image sur un article
DE19706295A1 (de) * 1997-02-18 1998-08-27 Tampoflex Gmbh Verfahren zum Drucken von Mustern
EP2284014A1 (fr) * 2008-05-29 2011-02-16 Kabushiki Kaisha Sato Imprimante thermique
EP2298561A1 (fr) * 2009-09-16 2011-03-23 Toshiba TEC Kabushiki Kaisha Mécanisme de tête thermique, dispositif d'impression l'utilisant et procédé de prise en charge de tête thermique
WO2014082133A1 (fr) 2012-11-30 2014-06-05 Digitool Products Pty Ltd Procédé d'impression sur un matériau textile

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US10093110B2 (en) 2017-01-25 2018-10-09 Toshiba Tec Kabushiki Kaisha Printing apparatus and printing method

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP2962856B1 (fr) 2020-12-23
EP2962856A1 (fr) 2016-01-06

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