Research
approach and methodology
The initial studies will ascertain the most appropriate registration and control
device for high repeatability deformation within the thermoforming environment.
With the material properties of the registration and control device established,
methods will be researched of attaching the print carrier to the device during
the thermoforming process. The programme will require measurement techniques
to be developed to monitor the forming deformation of device and carrier, potentially
with embedded sensors. Criteria for the adhesion of inks and print carrier to
the moulded resin will be established.
A
prototype registration and control device forming system will then be designed
and engineered around existing forming equipment for trials, testing and refinement.
Digital print techniques will be investigated on a wide range of potential forming
and in-mould media, adapting standard digital printing technology to use thermo
stable and flexible inks.
- Selection
and enhancement of thermally stable inks for use in the moulding environment.
- Optimisation
/ refinement of moulding process technology for in-mould transfer coating.
- Understanding
of polymer surface adhesion mechanisms for material and process specifications
(surface energy, rheology).
- Printing
process development, application of digital xerographic and advanced
silkscreen technology to polymer films, (adhesion, wetting, curing, post-forming
tolerance).
- Dimensional
stability / tolerance for post-forming processes.
Overall project research tasks
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Last updated: March 23rd, 2004
