Multilayer Imaging with a High-Gloss Clear Ink Layer

摘要

Various embodiments concern inkjet printing systems designed for multilayer imaging with a high-gloss clear ink layer. More specifically, the inkjet printing systems are designed so that clear, curable inks are provided additional time to level out before being cured. The settling process enables the inkjet printing systems to produce multilayer images having high gloss values. For example, a bracket could be attached to a curing assembly that prevents radiation from striking a certain portion of the substrate onto which clear ink has recently been deposited. As another example, an inactive array of light-emitting diodes may be disposed in line with the print head(s) responsible for depositing clear ink. Moreover, various embodiments also allow for true multilayer printing of a color coat and a high-gloss clear coat in a single step (e.g., by arranging print heads into rows within a printer carriage).

主权项

1. A printing system comprising:
a carriage that includes
a first print head that deposits colored ink on a substrate, anda second print head that deposits clear ink on the substrate,wherein the second print head is disposed downstream of the first print head in the media feed direction; a light source that is configured to emit radiation to cure ink deposited on the substrate,
wherein the light source is disposed along one side of the carriage; and a bracket that is disposed between the light source and the substrate,
wherein the bracket prevents the radiation from reaching a section of the substrate onto which the clear ink has been deposited, andwherein the bracket is positioned substantially in line with the second print head so that the clear ink deposited on the section of the substrate is not immediately exposed to the radiation emitted by the light source.