Method for applying images to surfaces
AssigneeRoscoe Manufacturing Corporation
InventorReiner Goertzen
Life of this patent
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Abstract
High quality full color images are printed with sublimation inks on transfer paper. The images are applied to prepared surfaces on parts, especially surfaces such as anodized aluminum prepared according to specific processes but also to other materials. Image transfer is accomplished by heating the part and/or the transfer paper and image under pressure. Once the image transfer is complete the parts are processed to ensure longevity of the image. The process may be used to apply images to parts having any 3 dimensional shapes.
Claims20
A method of transferring an image on an aluminum part, the method comprising the steps of:
- a) anodizing the part;
- b) creating an image comprising an image area by printing an image on a transfer paper with ink capable of subliming from the paper;
- c) orienting the paper relative to the part so that the image area contacts a surface of the part;
- d) heating the part and exerting pressure on the part such that the entire image area is subjected to heat and pressure to thereby cause the image to transfer to the part;
- and
- e) sealing the part.
A method of forming an image on the surface of an aluminum part comprising the steps of:
- a) anodizing the part;
- b) creating an image comprising an image area by printing an image on a transfer paper with ink capable of subliming from the paper;
- c) orienting the paper relative to the part so that the image area contacts a surface of the part;
- d) heating the part and exerting pressure on the part within a mold conforming to the shape of the surface of the part onto which the image is to be printed such that the entire image area is subjected to heat and even pressure to thereby cause the image to transfer to the part;
- and
- e) sealing the part.
A method of forming an image on a surface comprising the steps of:
- a) preparing a surface on a part by:
- i. coating the surface with an opaque latex;
- ii. curing the surface;
- iii. coating the surface with a clear polyurethane;
- and
- iv. curing the surface;
- b) creating an image comprising an image area by printing an image on a transfer paper with ink capable of subliming from the paper;
- c) orienting the paper relative to the surface so that the image area contacts said surface;
- d) heating the surface and the paper and exerting pressure between the surface and the paper such that the entire image area is subjected to heat and even pressure to thereby cause the image to transfer to the surface;
- and
- e) separating the paper from the surface.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.