Method and apparatus for creating a graphic image on a reflective metal surface
US8337010B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 24, 2010 |
| Grant date | Dec 25, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 2, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB41M2205/14
- WIPO fieldOther consumer goods
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A method for creating a graphic image on a reflective metal surface. A digital representation of the graphic image in a negative form is created on a computer and stored in memory. The negative image is then sent to an inkjet printer, where ultraviolet light curable ink representative of the negative image is printed onto the reflective metal surface using the inkjet printer. The portions of the reflective metal surface that are not covered with the ink remain exposed. The reflective metal in the exposed areas is mechanically scuffed to render it less reflective and visually distinct from the covered portions. The ultraviolet light curable ink is then removed with a high pressure water spray to reveal the graphic image made by the contrast between the original reflective metal and the scuffed metal surfaces.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.