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US 7,022,202 B2Granted
Method for applying images to surfaces
AssigneeMareiners, LLC
InventorReiner J. 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.
Claims15
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 on a base member and placing a template on the paper, wherein the template defines an opening sized to receive the part and the opening is oriented over the image area;
- d) placing the part in the opening so that the image area contacts a surface of the part in a desired orientation;
- e) 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
- f) sealing the part.
4 more elements
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.