阅读说明：本技术 变色热转印标签 (Color-changing heat transfer label ) 是由 魏焕郁 卡洛琳·玛利亚·奥`利里 S·阿兰·辛普 大卫·琼斯 于 2018-07-16 设计创作，主要内容包括：变色热转印标签包括载体(12)和位于载体(12)上的颜色设计层(14)。颜色设计层(14)由具有变色效果的油墨配制。颜色设计层(14)被构造成从载体(12)分离以限定在施加热和压力时粘附到目标物体(T)的变色特征。该变色特征被粘附到目标物体(T)以限定由变色特征限定的平面,从而当从相对于由变色特征限定的平面呈约90度的角度观察时,变色特征呈现出第一颜色,并且当从相对于由变色特征限定的平面呈约45度或更小的角度观察时,变色特征呈现出不同于第一颜色的第二颜色。(The color-changing heat transfer label includes a carrier (12) and a color design layer (14) on the carrier (12). The color design layer (14) is formulated from an ink having a color shifting effect. The color design layer (14) is configured to detach from the carrier (12) to define a color changing characteristic that adheres to the target object (T) upon application of heat and pressure. The color-changing feature is adhered to a target object (T) to define a plane defined by the color-changing feature such that the color-changing feature exhibits a first color when viewed from an angle of about 90 degrees relative to the plane defined by the color-changing feature and the color-changing feature exhibits a second color different from the first color when viewed from an angle of about 45 degrees or less relative to the plane defined by the color-changing feature.)

1. A color-changing heat transfer label comprising:

a carrier; and

a color design layer on the carrier, the color design layer being formulated with an ink having a color change effect,

wherein the color design layer is configured to detach from the carrier, the color design layer detaching from the carrier upon application of heat and pressure to define a color changing feature adhered to a target object, the color changing feature adhered to the target object to define a plane defined by the color changing feature, and wherein the color changing feature exhibits a first color when viewed from an angle of about 90 degrees relative to the plane defined by the color changing feature, and wherein the color changing feature exhibits a second color different from the first color when viewed from an angle of about 45 degrees or less relative to the plane defined by the color changing feature.

2. The color-changing label of claim 1 comprising a backing layer on the color design layer opposite the carrier.

3. The color-changing label of claim 1 comprising a release layer on the carrier between the carrier and the color design layer.

4. The color-changing label of claim 1 comprising an adhesive layer.

5. The color-changing label of claim 4 wherein the adhesive layer is located on the color design layer opposite the carrier.

6. The color-changing label of claim 4 wherein the adhesive layer is on the backing layer opposite the color design layer and the carrier.

7. The color-changing label of claim 1 wherein the color design layer is formulated from a design color ink comprising a resin dispersion and a pigment.

8. The color-changing label of claim 7 wherein the first color is a turquoise color and the second color is a violet color.

9. The color changing label of claim 7 wherein the first color is red and the second color is gold.

10. The color-changing label of claim 7 wherein the first color is pink and the second color is silver gray.

11. The color-changing label of claim 7 wherein the first color is aqua and the second color is rose.

12. The color-changing label of claim 7 wherein the pigment is present at a concentration of about 13.9% to about 20% by weight.

13. The color changing label of claim 2 wherein the backing layer is an ink, the ink being one of a water based ink, a solvent based ink, and a 100% solids ink.

14. The color-changing label of claim 13 wherein the ink is a UV/LED curable ink.

15. The color-changing label of claim 14 wherein the UV/LED curable ink is a thermoplastic resin.

16. The color-changing label of claim 4 wherein the adhesive is a thermoplastic composition.

17. The color-changing label of claim 1 comprising two color design layers.

18. The color-changing label of claim 2 comprising two backing layers.

19. A method of providing durable color change characteristics to a target object, comprising the steps of:

providing a color-changing heat transfer label, wherein the color-changing heat transfer label is provided with a carrier and a color design layer positioned on the carrier, and the color design layer is prepared by ink with a color-changing effect;

placing the color changing heat transfer label on the object with the color design layer closer to the target object than the carrier;

applying heat and pressure to the back side of the carrier; and

separating the color design layer from the carrier to define a color changing feature, and transferring and adhering the color changing feature to the target object to define a plane defined by the color changing feature,

wherein the color changing feature exhibits a first color when viewed from an angle of about 90 degrees relative to the plane defined by the color changing feature, and wherein the color changing feature exhibits a second color different from the first color when viewed from an angle of about 45 degrees or less relative to the plane defined by the color changing feature.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the first color is one of turquoise, red, pink, and aqua, and the second color is one of violet, gold, silver gray, and rose.

21. The method of claim 19, wherein the color design layer is formulated from a design color ink comprising a resin dispersion and a pigment.

22. The method of claim 21, wherein the pigment is present at a concentration of about 13.9 wt% to about 20 wt%.

Background

Heat transfer labels are well known and used in a variety of industries. For example, heat transfer labels are used to transfer indicia to commercial products, sports equipment, fabrics, and other substrates. Typically, heat transfer labels include a thermoplastic layer that is capable of adhering to a substrate upon the application of heat and pressure.

Various types of heat transfer labels are known. Some labels are UV-curable heat transfer labels, others are solvent-based or water-based thermoplastic ink systems. Examples of UV-curable heat transfer labels are disclosed in Down et al, U.S. patent No. 5,919,834 and Colella et al, U.S. patent No. 9,266,373, which are commonly assigned with the present application and incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Colella et al disclose a textured heat transfer label.

Heat transfer labels having a textured feel (e.g., raised and/or recessed areas) are known, such as those disclosed in U.S. patent No. 9,349,305 to Colella, as are metallized heat transfer labels, such as those disclosed in U.S. patent No. 7,910,203 to Colella et al. Embossed heat transfer labels are also known, such as those disclosed in U.S. patent No. 9,675,996 to O' spare et al, which is also commonly assigned with the present application and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. These labels are produced by printing an embossed layer, which may for example comprise a pattern, onto a carrier and printing a design layer on the embossed layer. The design layer is then transferred to the article to be decorated. The design layer transferred onto the article has an embossed pattern therein.

While all of these labels provide some desirable visual effect, they are manufactured so that they do not change color when viewed from different angles or viewing angles. That is, for any given colored portion of a label, the same color will be observed regardless of the angle from which it is viewed.

Accordingly, there is a need for a label and method of making such a label that provides different colors to the same portion of the label when the label is viewed from different angles or perspectives.

Disclosure of Invention

Various embodiments of a heat transfer label with a strong color flip/color change effect include one or more color layers with one or more color flip/color change pigments, one or more backing layers, and one or more adhesive layers. The labels exhibit strong color flip/change effects as well as excellent performance characteristics for application to substrates such as fabrics, plastics, steel sheets, and the like.

Such labels (features that are transferred using the label) provide strong color flip/flop effects or angle change specific effects with properties and properties that meet the requirements for labels for apparel, automotive applications, sporting equipment, the cosmetics industry, and the like, including stringent apparel washfastness tests, dye migration, and crocking tests.

In an embodiment, the carrier web is a substrate for a printing process used to make the color-shifting heat transfer label. Materials suitable for use as carrier webs are disclosed in Colella et al, O' Leary et al, and the aforementioned patents to Downs. In some embodiments, the carrier web may be coated with a release layer. The color shifting design layer is an ink layer containing one or more color shifting or color shifting pigments. A backing layer may be used and if used, is an ink layer printed on the design color layer and provides a backing color to enhance the color flip/color change effect and enhance color contrast. An adhesive layer may be used and, if used, printed or applied on the backing layer (if used) to provide the necessary level of adhesion to adhere the color-changing feature to the substrate or target object. In use or application, the color-changing feature is transferred to the target object when the label is positioned on the target object with the adhesive layer (if used), the backing layer (if used), or the color design layer on the target object, and heat and pressure are applied to the back side of the carrier web.

In an embodiment, a color shifting heat transfer label includes a carrier and a color design layer on the carrier. The color design layer is formulated from an ink having a color shifting effect. The color design layer is configured to detach from the carrier and, when detached from the carrier, defines a color changing feature. The color changing feature is adhered to the target object upon application of heat and pressure.

The color changing feature is adhered to the target object to define a plane of the color changing feature. The color-changing feature exhibits a first color when viewed from an angle of about 90 degrees relative to a plane of the color-changing feature, and the color-changing feature exhibits a second color different from the first color when viewed from an angle of about 45 degrees or less relative to the plane of the color-changing feature.

In an embodiment, the color changing label comprises a backing layer. The backing layer is on the color design layer opposite the carrier. In an embodiment, the color changing label comprises a release layer. The peeling layer is located on the carrier and between the carrier and the color design layer.

In embodiments, the color changing label may include an adhesive layer on the color design layer, opposite the carrier. In an embodiment, the color changing label includes an adhesive layer on a backing layer opposite the color design layer and the carrier. The adhesive layer (if used) is applied over the color design layer or backing layer (if used). The adhesive layer may be formed from a thermoplastic composition that melts or softens upon application of heat and pressure and adheres to the target object to affix the color changing label feature to the target object. Examples of suitable thermoplastic compositions can be formulated from thermoplastic resins and hot melt powders. Suitable hot melt powder resins include, for example, thermoplastic polyurethanes, copolyesters and copolyamides. The hot-melt powder may be dispersed in the thermoplastic resin binder, and may have a particle size distribution suitable for a mesh for printing.

The color design layer may be formulated from a design color ink that includes a resin dispersion and a pigment. In embodiments, the design color ink may be a solvent-based ink, a water-based ink, a 100% solids ink, and may be an ultraviolet UV/LED curable ink. In an embodiment, the first color is a turquoise color and the second color is a violet color. In another embodiment, the first color is red and the second color is gold. In yet another embodiment, the first color is pink and the second color is silver gray. In yet another embodiment, the first color is light green and the second color is rose red. The pigment is present at a concentration of about 13.9 wt% to about 20 wt%.

The backing layer may also be an ink. The ink is a water-based ink, a solvent-based ink, and/or a 100% solids ink. The backing layer ink may be a UV/LED curable ink. One such UV/LED curable ink is a thermoplastic resin.

In an embodiment, the color changing label comprises two color design layers. The label may also include two backing layers.

A method of providing durable color change characteristics to a target object, comprising the steps of: providing a color-changing heat transfer label, wherein the color-changing heat transfer label is provided with a carrier and a color design layer positioned on the carrier, and the color design layer is prepared by ink with a color-changing effect; placing the color-changing heat transfer label on the object so that the color design layer is closer to the target object than the carrier; applying heat and pressure to the back side of the carrier; and separating the color design layer from the carrier to define a color shifting feature, and transferring and adhering the color shifting feature to a target object to define a plane of the color shifting feature, the resulting color shifting feature exhibiting a first color when viewed at an angle of about 90 degrees relative to the plane of the color shifting feature, and the color shifting feature exhibiting a second color different from the first color when viewed at an angle of about 45 degrees or less relative to the plane of the color shifting feature.

In one approach, the first color is one of turquoise, red, pink and aqua, and the second color is one of violet, gold, silver gray and rose red. The color design layer may be formulated from a design color ink that includes a resin dispersion and a pigment. The pigment may be present at a concentration of about 13.9% to about 20% by weight of the design color ink.

Other aspects, objects, and advantages will become more apparent from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

Drawings

The benefits and advantages of embodiments of the present invention will become more readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the relevant art after reviewing the following detailed description and accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a color changing heat transfer label according to an embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the color-changing heat transfer label of FIG. 1 applied to a target object;

FIG. 3 is a top or plan view of an example of the color-changing heat transfer label of FIGS. 1 and 2 applied to a target object;

FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a color changing heat transfer label;

FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the color changing heat transfer label of FIG. 4 applied to a target object;

FIG. 6 is a top or plan view of the color-changing heat transfer label of FIGS. 4 and 5 applied to a target object;

FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a color changing heat transfer label;

FIG. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the color-changing heat transfer label of FIG. 7 applied to a target object; and

fig. 9 is a top or plan view of an example of the color-changing heat transfer label of fig. 7 and 8 applied to a target object.

Detailed Description

While the present disclosure is susceptible of embodiment in various forms, there is shown in the drawings and will hereinafter be described a presently preferred embodiment with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered an exemplification and is not intended to limit the disclosure to the specific embodiment illustrated.

Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a color changing heat transfer label 10. The layer thicknesses are exaggerated for ease of understanding, and in this embodiment, as well as other embodiments shown in other figures of the present disclosure, the layer thicknesses are not to scale. The color changing heat transfer label 10 generally includes a carrier 12, such as a carrier web, a color design layer 14, and an optional backing layer 16. The label may also optionally include one or both of a release layer 18 or release coating and an adhesive layer 20. Fig. 2 and 3 illustrate the color-changing heat transfer label 10 applied to a target object T in cross-section (fig. 2) and in plan view (fig. 3) showing the viewing angle, discussed in more detail below. Fig. 4-6 illustrate an embodiment of a label 110, the label 110 being similar to the label 10 of fig. 1-3, but without the adhesive layer. In embodiments where a release layer is used, the release layer typically, but not always, extends over the entire carrier. Also, in embodiments where an adhesive layer is used, the adhesive layer typically, but not always, extends over the entire portion of the label to be transferred to the target object. Fig. 7-9 illustrate an embodiment of a label 210, the label 210 being similar to the labels 10, 110 of fig. 1-3 and 4-6, respectively, but without a backing layer or adhesive layer. In embodiments where a release layer 218 is used, the release layer 218 typically, but not always, extends over the entire carrier 212.

The color shifting heat transfer label is configured such that when heat H and pressure P are applied to the outer surface 22 of the carrier, the adhesive layer and the color design layer transfer and adhere to a target object, the color design layer provides a color shifting feature 24, the color shifting feature 24 having one appearance (one color) when viewed from a first viewing angle or angle α, such as when the feature is viewed or viewed straight (e.g., viewed perpendicular to the plane of the feature) from an angle of about 90 degrees relative to the plane defined by the feature, and the color shifting feature 24 having a different appearance (a different color) when viewed from a different viewing angle or angle β, such as when viewed from an angle of about 45 degrees or less relative to the plane defined by the feature.

In an embodiment, the color design layer 14 is printed onto the carrier and may include a pattern. For example, the logo may be printed in or as a color design layer applied to an area on the carrier or release layer (if used). Then, a backing layer is applied over the color design layer. The backing layer may be used to provide a backing or contrast for the color design layer. The backing layer may also be used to provide contrast between the color design layer and the target object.

For example, the color design layer may be a logo that requires some design aesthetics. In one example, the logo appears to be a turquoise bright blue when viewed from an angle of about 90 degrees relative to a plane defined by the feature (looking directly at the feature); however, the color of the logo appears violet when viewed from an angle of about 45 degrees or less relative to the plane defined by the feature. In such an example, the backing layer may be black to provide contrast to the logo so that the logo has a clearer appearance.

As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the carrier 12 may be formed from a variety of materials. In one embodiment, the support is formed as a web made from a No. 92 (gauge) (92ga) transparent untreated packaging grade polyester film. It will be readily appreciated that one benefit of using a transparent material for the carrier is that, if desired, the layers can be viewed through the carrier to check the quality of subsequent layers of the label.

The material for the carrier is selected so that the surface energy of the carrier is high enough to print the color design layer or release layer (if used) and so that the release layer (if used) can remain bonded to the carrier after the color design layer, backing layer, and adhesive layer (if used) are transferred to the target object upon application of heat and pressure.

The release layer 18 (if used) is printed on the carrier. As shown in fig. 1, the release layer may be printed over a larger area than the color design layer and backing layer. The release layer is disposed between the carrier and the color design layer. The color-design layer has a lower affinity for the carrier or release layer (if used) than for the backing layer. The release layer (if used) is configured to facilitate complete separation of the color design layer from the remainder of the carrier when heat and pressure are applied. When a release layer is used, it prevents the color design layer from bonding to the carrier when heat and pressure are applied, and thus allows the color design layer (and backing layer) to be transferred to a target object.

In one embodiment, the peel ply may be formed from a wax comprising a thermoplastic polyamide resin having a softening point below the label application temperature. In such embodiments, the release layer softens and becomes an anti-blocking layer when applied, thereby allowing the color design layer and adhesive layer (if used) to be released and transferred to the target object.

The optional backing layer 16 is used to provide contrast to the color design layer. As described above, the backing layer (if used) is applied over the color design layer and may provide backing or contrast for the color design layer and/or contrast between the color design layer and the target object. The backing layer may be any of a variety of inks including, for example, water-based inks or solvent-based inks, 100% solids inks, UV/LED curable inks, and the like. Throughout this disclosure, the 100% solids ink may be, for example, a silicone ink, a polyisocyanate-polyol ink, and the like. Those skilled in the art will recognize other suitable 100% solids inks.

In one example, the UV/LED curable ink can be prepared by dissolving a thermoplastic resin in a monomer, oligomer, or monomer/oligomer mixture and incorporating into the finished photo-initiated ink system. It will be appreciated that any monomer, oligomer or monomer/oligomer mixture that is capable of dissolving the thermoplastic resin component and remaining compatible with the other components of the label is acceptable. Suitable monomers for dissolving the thermoplastic resin component include acrylates and methacrylates such as lauryl acrylate, isobornyl acrylate, 2-phenoxyethyl acrylate, glycidyl methacrylate, tetraethoxylated nonylphenol acrylate, and propoxylated neopentyl glycol diacrylate.

Suitable thermoplastic resins for UV/LED curable inks include epoxy resins, polyurethanes, polymethacrylates, polyethylene vinyl acetate, polyvinyl chloride, vinyl chloride/vinyl acetate copolymers, functionalized vinyl chloride/vinyl acetate copolymers, chlorinated halogenated polyolefins such as chlorinated and fluorinated polyolefins, and polystyrene.

Suitable photo-curable monomer initiators include benzophenone, α ketone, (thiophenyl) morpholinylacetone (R) ((R))

907) Morpholinyl phenylaminohexanones (A), (B)

369) Cyclohexyl phenyl methanone (A)

184) Hydroxy phenyl acetone: (

1173) And isopropylthioxanthone (f) ((f))ITX), alkylated benzophenones (TZT), (2,4, 6-trimethylbenzoyl) diphenylphosphine oxide(s) ((s)

TPO), and poly-4- (2-hydroxy-2-methylpropionyl) α -methylstyrene (TPO)

KIP-100F)。

907、369、184、

1173 and

ITX is a product available from BASF.

TPO is a product of RAHN. Generally, suitable initiators are those that generate free radicals upon exposure to UV/LED radiation.

In one embodiment, the color design layer is prepared as a transparent ink to which a color changing pigment is added. The color design layer may be formulated from a design color ink that includes a resin dispersion and a pigment. The design color ink may be a solvent-based ink, a water-based ink, a 100% solids ink, or a UV/LED curable ink. A solvent-based clear ink composition comprising the following components:

components	Accounts for the weight of the transparent ink
		NA2146 (resin Dispersion)	90.33
Demosphenon C1200 (polyol)	2.48
		(3-Ethoxypropionic acid Ethyl ester) (EEP solvent)	6.78
Foamex N (antifoam agent)	0.41
		Total of	100.00

In a first formulation, the pigment is prepared by mixing 200 grams (g) of pigmentLUX TURQ VIOLET) and 50g of an isocyanate crosslinker (e.g.commercially available from Bayer MaterialScience AG, Germany)

N75) was added to 800g of the above clear ink formulation to formulate a design color ink, which was mixed while adding the design color ink additives. Such a formulation achieves a change or shift in the turquoise color when the visual color is viewed from an angle of about 90 degrees relative to the plane of the feature (direct view feature) to violet when viewed from a smaller angle, for example, from an angle of about 45 degrees or less relative to the plane of the feature. In this first formulation, the pigment is present at a concentration of about 20% by weight of the design color ink.

In a second formulation, the pigment is prepared by mixing 200g of pigment

LUX RED GOLD) and 50g of

N75 addition to 800g of the above clear ink formulation achieved color separationThe red shift or flip when viewed at about 90 degrees to the plane of the feature changes to a gold color when viewed from a smaller angle, for example, from about 45 degrees or less to the plane of the feature. In this second formulation, the pigment is present at a concentration of about 20% by weight of the design color ink.

In a third formulation, a pigment (commercially available from EMD/Merck KGaA, Philadelphia, Pa.) was added in an amount of 150g

T20-01WNT Viola Fantasy) and 50g

N75 added to 850g of the above clear ink formulation, achieved a shift or change in color from pink when viewed at about 90 degrees to the plane of the feature to silver gray when viewed from a smaller angle, for example, at about 45 degrees or less to the plane of the feature. In this third formulation, the pigment is present at a concentration of about 13.9% by weight of the design color ink.

In a fourth formulation, 175g of pigment (commercially available from EMD/Merck KGaA, Philadelphia, Pa.) was added

T20-03WNT Tropic Sunrise) and 50g

N75 added to 825g of the above clear ink formulation, a shift or change in color from a light green when viewed at about 90 degrees to the plane of the feature to a rose color when viewed from a smaller angle, for example, from about 45 degrees or less to the plane of the feature. In this fourth formulation, the pigment is present at a concentration of about 16.7% by weight of the design color ink.

An example of a water-based ink formulation for apparel applications, a fifth formulation, includes the following components:

in a fifth formulation, the pigment is prepared by mixing 20 grams (g) of pigment

LUX TURQVIOLET), 14 grams (g) of water, and 0.4 grams (g) of water

PSA 336 (a surfactant commercially available from EVONIK) was added to 65.6 grams (g) of CM4481Versa T clear (a water-based resin dispersion from ITW Graphics) and 1.7 grams (g) of IFSCT (an aziridine-type crosslinker) with mixing to formulate design color inks. Such a formulation achieves a change or shift in the turquoise color when the visual color is viewed from an angle of about 90 degrees relative to the plane of the feature (direct view feature) to violet when viewed from a smaller angle, for example, from an angle of about 45 degrees or less relative to the plane of the feature. In this fifth formulation, the pigment is present at a concentration of about 20% by weight of the design color ink.

An example of a 100% solids ink formulation for apparel applications, a sixth formulation, includes the following components:

in a sixth formulation, the pigment is prepared by mixing 20 grams (g) of pigment

LUX TURQVIOLET) and 10 grams (g) of 89-ST-RMT (silicon T reducer) commercially available from PERFECTION OS Specialty Inks) were added to 70 grams (g) of 89-ST-Mclean (silicon clear) commercially available from PERFECTION OS Specialty Inks) and 11 grams (g) of 89-ST-XL (silicon T catalyst) commercially available from PERFECTION OS Specialty Inks to formulate a design color ink with mixing. This formulation achieves a turquoise color change or shift when the visual color is viewed at an angle of about 90 degrees relative to the plane of the feature (direct view feature)To violet when viewed from a smaller angle, for example from an angle of about 45 degrees or less relative to the plane of the feature. In this sixth formulation, the pigment is present at a concentration of about 18% by weight of the design color ink.

The above formulations can be used, for example, for color changing labels suitable for textile and apparel applications.

In another embodiment, referred to herein as a seventh formulation, the color design layer ink composition comprises the following components:

in this seventh formulation, the pigment is present at a concentration of about 19.45% by weight of the design color ink. It has been observed that such formulations are suitable for packaging labels, for example, for use with plastic cans (e.g., plastic cosmetic cans, etc.). It will be appreciated that the cans are generally circular, oval, or generally do not have flat surfaces defining a plane. For purposes of this disclosure and discussion, reference to a plane refers to a plane defined by a flat surface (if present), as in the case of a flat textile or fabric surface, and refers to a plane defined by a perpendicular relative to the shortest distance between the viewer's line of sight and the surface when viewing a circular (e.g., curved) or non-flat surface.

An example of an ink formulation for hard surface applications, for example, sporting equipment such as golf clubs, an eighth formulation, includes the following components:

in an eighth formulation, the pigment is present at a concentration of about 20 weight percent. It has been observed that such formulations are suitable for use, for example, in heat transfer labels used with sports equipment such as golf clubs, bows and arrows, and the like. It should be understood that golf clubs and arches are generally cylindrical or tapered cylinders and generally do not have flat surfaces defining a plane. For purposes of this disclosure and discussion, reference to a plane refers to a plane defined by a flat surface (if present), as in the case of a flat textile or fabric surface, and refers to a plane defined by a perpendicular relative to the shortest distance between the viewer's line of sight and the surface when viewing a circular (e.g., curved) or non-flat surface.

Other samples were prepared and tested using the above formulation. The design color ink was printed onto a carrier web PET film 803 (supplied by Loparex) as a design color layer, backed with 7V1211 Black and 0V345 adhesive (both supplied by ITW Graphics) to make a color shifting heat transfer label. The color-flipping thermal transfer features were transferred to painted carbon fiber golf clubs or steel golf clubs using a roll transfer machine available from ITW United Silicone. The golf club was then transparently coated with an automotive grade varnish. This allows the club to pass appropriate testing without significant visual changes being observed.

Other color-changing pigments are also contemplated as possible. For example, available from Sun Chemical Corporation

LUX VIOLET RED、

LUX GOLD GREEN、

LUXTURQ VIOLET, andLUX RED GOLD. Some pigments from the supplier EMD/Merck include Color Stream

Arctic Fire、Color Stream

Autumn Mystery、ColorStream

WNT Arctic Fire、Color StreamViola Fantasy、ColorStream

Tropical Sunrise、Color Stream

WNT Lapis Sunlight、Color Stream

Indian Summer、Color

Volcanic Fire、

9507. And

caribbean blue. Some examples from the supplier BASF Corporation are

Color motion Blue Topaz 9G680D、

Color motion Ruby 9G480D、

Blue 9G630L、

Red 9G430L、

Green 9G 830L. Additionally, some examples of Limited from New Color Chemical Co include Chameleon pigment, NCP25A, NCP32A, NCP31A, and NCP 40A. The listIs not exhaustive; but are examples of some color shifting pigments that may be used and are suitable for the color shifting heat transfer labels of the present invention. Other pigments will be recognized by those skilled in the art and are within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. It is contemplated that the concentration of pigment may be from about 5% to about 90% by weight of the design color ink, preferably from about 10% to about 50% by weight of the design color ink, more preferably from about 10% to about 35% by weight of the design color ink.

Various materials may be used for the carrier. One suitable material for the support is an untreated packaging grade polyester film, such as a No. 92 (92ga) transparent untreated packaging grade polyester film, which is well known in the art. Other suitable materials include polyethylene Phthalate (PET) and polypropylene (PP).

The material for the carrier is selected such that the surface energy of the carrier is high enough for printing the color design layer and release layer (if used), and such that the release layer remains adhered to the carrier after the color design layer, backing layer, and adhesive layer (if used) are transferred to a target object upon application of heat and pressure.

The release layer (if used) is printed on the carrier. Although not shown, the release layer may be printed over a larger area than the color design layer and backing layer and adhesive layer (if used). The release layer is disposed between the color design layer and the carrier. However, the release layer has a higher affinity for the carrier and a lower affinity for the color design layer, so that the release layer (if used) remains on the carrier but the color design layer is transferred to the target object. The release layer (if used) is configured to facilitate complete separation of the color design layer and the adhesive layer (if used) from the remainder of the label structure, e.g., the carrier, upon application of heat and pressure. When a release layer is used, it prevents the color design layer from sticking to the carrier upon application of heat and pressure, and thus allows the color design layer to be efficiently and effectively transferred to a target object.

In one embodiment, the release layer may be formed from a wax comprising a thermoplastic polyamide resin having a softening point below the label application temperature. In such embodiments, the release layer softens and becomes an anti-blocking layer when applied, thereby allowing the color design layer and adhesive layer (if used) to be peeled off and transferred to a target object.

The adhesive layer 20 (if used) is applied over the color design layer or backing layer (if used). The adhesive layer may be formed from a thermoplastic composition that melts or softens when heat and pressure are applied and adheres to the target object to adhere the color changing label feature to the target object. For example, suitable thermoplastic compositions may be formulated from thermoplastic resins and hot melt powders. Suitable hot melt powder resins include, but are not limited to, thermoplastic polyurethanes, copolyesters, and copolyamides. In such a thermoplastic composition, the hot-melt powder may be dispersed in the thermoplastic resin binder, and may have a particle size distribution suitable for a mesh for printing.

As will be appreciated from the above disclosure and the figures, the color design layer is printed on the carrier or release layer (if used). The ink formulations for the color design layer are provided above. The color design layer is configured and formulated to separate from the carrier and/or release layer and to clearly transfer to the target object and maintain color change or color shifting characteristics. As noted above, the affinity of the color design layer ink for the carrier (and its release layer, if present) is lower than the affinity for the target object or adhesive layer (if used in construction) to promote clear transfer to the target object upon application of heat and pressure to the back side of the carrier.

To apply the color-changing heat transfer label, the label is placed on the target object such that the color design layer or adhesive layer (if used) faces the target object. After the label is adjusted to the desired position on the target object, sufficient heat and pressure are applied to the outer surface 22 of the carrier using conventional thermal transfer equipment. When heat and pressure are applied to the carrier, the color design layer, backing layer, or adhesive layer (if used) melts or softens and adheres to the target object. The user may then peel the carrier and release the coating by grasping the carrier and pulling it away from the target object. After the carrier is removed along with the release coating (if used), the color design layer, as well as the backing layer and adhesive layer (if used), remain adhered to the target object. The exposed color design layer exhibits regions having color shifting features as described above, wherein the color of the features changes depending on the angle at which the features are viewed.

Various samples were prepared, applied to a target object, and tested for adhesion, abrasion resistance, visual appearance and color stability, staining, durability, and dye migration suitable for the target object.

A first sample of the first formulation described above was prepared by adding a design color ink additive while mixing with a clear ink formulation to prepare a visible color change or shift formulation from turquoise to violet (formulation 1 described above).

A solvent-based design color change ink was printed on a carrier web (PET film, polysrip SLV, commercially available from Burkhardt/Freeman, inc. of south deerfield, MA) as a design color layer. A backing black ink KS2181/C, a solvent-based polyurethane black ink available from ITW Graphics of Manchester, CT, was printed on the design color layer and an adhesive 275140a, C, a solvent-based thermoplastic polyurethane adhesive available from ITW Graphics of Manchester, CT, was printed on the backing black ink layer to prepare a color-reversed heat transfer label.

A water-based design color change ink (the fifth formulation described above) was printed as a design color layer on a carrier web (PET film, polyslipslv, commercially available from Burkhardt/Freeman, inc. of South Deerfield, MA). The color reversed thermal transfer label was prepared by printing a Black ink backed Versa Black (which is a water based polyurethane Black ink available from itwggraphics of Manchester, CT) on the design color layer and printing an adhesive CM4506 (which is a water based thermoplastic polyurethane adhesive available from ITW Graphics of Manchester, CT) on the Black ink backed layer.

A 100% solids silicon design color change ink (sixth formulation described above) was printed as a design color layer on a carrier web (PET film, KEMAFOIL TS KTR1682TSLH, commercially available from Coveme inc. A backing Black ink 89-STP-Black (which is a 100% solid silicon Black ink available from PERFECTOS Specialty Inks) was printed on the design color layer. 89-ST-M clear, which is a 100% solids silicon clear ink available from PERFECTOS Specialty Inks, was printed on a black backing layer, and adhesive 82-HP-E82, which is a powder adhesive available from PERFECTOS Specialty Inks, was printed on the clear layer, then dried and sintered to prepare a color-reversed heat transfer label.

The color design layer, backing layer, and adhesive layer (if used) (color reversal feature) were transferred to the fabric sample by a flatbed printer (available from Insta Graphic Systems of Cerritos, CA) at a temperature of 302 ° F and a pressure of 60 pounds per square inch (psi) for a 15 second residence time.

Fabric with heat-transfer color flip features was subjected to Nike Standard decorative durability Wash test, Accelerated Wash (Accelerated Wash) at 60 ℃ for 5 times, and innovative Standard Wash (innovative Standard Wash) at 60 ℃ for 15 times, using a Miele PW6065 washing machine, and tumble-dried with an automatic dryer after each Wash. The sample fabric with the heat transfer color reversal feature passed the test. No color change, no staining, no visual change and no adhesive failure of the color flip features were observed.

The fabric with the heat-transfer color flip-label was also subjected to AATCC standard crocking test using SDLALASCM-5AATCC crocking tester and TIC crocking tester blocks 2 "X2" for 10 crocking tests and passed the test. No color shift, abrasion or visual change was observed.

In some samples, lacquer and dye barrier inks (dye blocker ink) were also printed between the backing (black ink) layer and the adhesive layer to retard dye migration from the fabric. This may be advantageous when used with polyester fabrics. These samples were also tested as described above, and FC Barcelona blue and red striped knit polyester fabric with heat transfer color reversal characteristics was placed under the white fabric and sandwiched between two plexiglass plates in an AATCC standard perspiration fastness tester (permiration tester) at a weight of 8.15 pounds, and aged in an oven at 70 ℃ for 48 hours according to the Nike standard fastness and dye migration decorative test method. The color-reversed label passed the dye migration test and no dye or color was observed to cross the white fabric on the surface or top of the label.

Similar tests were conducted on samples on which the color-flipping thermal transfer characteristic had been applied to other color-flipping thermal transfer characteristics described above (e.g., a second formulation that shifted or changed color from red to gold, a third formulation that shifted or changed color from pink to silver gray, and a fourth formulation that shifted or changed color from pale green to rose-red), and these samples exhibited similar results.

Other samples were prepared and tested using the seventh formulation described above. The design color ink was printed onto carrier web PET film AB1354 (supplied by ITW Foils of Newburyport, MA) as a design color layer to produce a color-shifting heat transfer label. The color flip thermal transfer features were transferred to black PETG cosmetic cans (PET with added glycol, available from CPP Global of Asheboro, NC) using a roll transfer machine available from United Silicone inc. The black PETG cosmetic jar with the heat transfer discoloration label was subjected to a cream resistance test. A standard brand-named skin cream was applied to the label and held in an oven at 50 ℃ for 48 hours. The heat transfer discoloration characteristics on the black cosmetic jar passed the test and no significant visual change was observed. Tape adhesion and nail scratch resistance tests were also performed on black PETG cosmetic cans with heat transfer discoloration characteristics, and passed these tests without significant differences and defects in the transferred characteristics after testing.

It will be appreciated that the specific composition of the carrier, release layer (if used), color design layer, and adhesive layer (if used) may differ from the specific composition disclosed herein, depending on the composition of the target object T to which the label is to be applied and the desired matte finish.

It should also be understood that a single color-changing layer and a single backing layer are disclosed for simplicity of description, but multiple layers may be used for each of the color-changing ink and the backing layer (ink) to achieve various desired visual attractions, all within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Further, it is to be understood that the backing layer may be formulated to provide the adhesion required to adhere the color-changing layer to a target object, and in some such applications, an adhesive layer may not be required.

The words "a" or "an" should be taken to include both the singular and the plural. Conversely, any reference to plural items shall, where appropriate, include the singular. All patents and published applications mentioned in this disclosure are incorporated herein in their entirety, whether or not expressly incorporated herein.

From the foregoing, it will be observed that numerous modifications and variations can be effectuated without departing from the true spirit and scope of the novel concepts of the present disclosure. It is to be understood that no limitation with respect to the specific embodiments illustrated is intended or should be inferred. The disclosure is intended to cover, in accordance with the appended claims, all such modifications as fall within the scope of the claims.