METHOD AND DEVICE FOR TRANSFERRING A TRANSFER LAYER OF A TRANSFER FILM ONTO A SUBSTRATE

Abstract

A printing device, in particular offset printing device, for transferring a transfer ply of a transfer film to a substrate,

wherein the printing device has a first printing unit, which has a first transfer unit including a transfer cylinder with a transfer medium and a first substrate cylinder, wherein the first transfer unit of the first printing unit is designed in such a way that a first adhesion promoter is transferred from the transfer medium to a first region of the surface of the substrate, and a corresponding method.

Claims

1. A printing device, for transferring a transfer ply of a transfer film to a substrate, wherein the printing device has a first printing unit, which has a first transfer unit comprising a transfer cylinder with a transfer medium and a first substrate cylinder, wherein the first transfer unit of the first printing unit is designed in such a way that a first adhesion promoter is transferred from the transfer medium to a first region of the surface of the substrate.

2. (canceled)

3. (canceled)

4. (canceled)

5. (canceled)

6. (canceled)

7. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein the transfer medium comprises a carrier plate, which comprises or consists of polyester, and/or metal.

8. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein the transfer medium has an outer layer which comprises or consists of a photopolymer.

9. (canceled)

10. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein the transfer medium comprises at least one first motif having a grid width of at most 150 lpi.

11. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein the transfer medium, has a hardness in the range of from 50 Shore A to 80 Shore A.

12. (canceled)

13. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein the transfer medium, has a surface roughness, in the range of from 0.05 μm to 1 μm.

14. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein the printing device has a second printing unit.

15. The printing device according to claim 14, wherein the second printing unit has a second transfer unit comprising a pressing cylinder with a pressing blanket and a second substrate cylinder, wherein the second transfer unit is designed in such a way that the transfer ply is applied, from the pressing blanket, to the substrate with the first adhesion promoter transferred in the first region.

16. The printing device according to claim 15, wherein the pressing blanket has a hardness in the range of from 50 Shore A to 90 Shore A.

17. The printing device according to claim 15, wherein the pressing blanket has a thickness in the range of from 1.5 mm to 2.5 mm.

18. (canceled)

19. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein the first transfer unit further comprises an anilox roller, which is formed in such a way that it transfers the first adhesion promoter to the transfer medium of the first transfer unit.

20. The printing device according to claim 19, wherein the first transfer unit further comprises a chamber doctor blade system, which is formed in such a way that the first adhesion promoter is transferred from the chamber doctor blade system to the anilox roller.

21. The printing device according to claim 19, wherein the anilox roller has a grid width with lines per unit of extension in a range of from 20 L/cm to 200 L/cm.

22. The printing device according to claim 19, wherein the anilox roller has a pick-up volume in the range of from 10 cm.sup.3/m.sup.2 to 30 cm.sup.3/m.sup.2, and/or in the range of from 6.45 BCM to 19.35 BCM.

23. (canceled)

24. (canceled)

25. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein the first printing unit has a first inking unit that can be coupled and decoupled and comprises at least one first inking roller and a first plate cylinder and/or wherein a second printing unit has a second inking unit that can be coupled and decoupled and comprises at least one second inking roller and a second plate cylinder (811).

26. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein the first printing unit has a first dampening unit that can be coupled and decoupled and comprises at least one first dampening roller and/or wherein a second printing unit has a second dampening unit that can be coupled and decoupled and comprises at least one second dampening roller.

27. (canceled)

28. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein the first and/or a second printing unit comprises a curing device for curing the first adhesion promoter.

29. (canceled)

30. The printing device according to claim 28, wherein the curing device is arranged on the first and/or a second substrate cylinder.

31. The printing device according to claim 28, wherein the curing device cures the first adhesion promoter on a curing section of between 10 cm and 60 cm, and/or between 20 cm and 30 cm.

32. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein the first and/or a second printing unit comprises a precuring device which is arranged in such a way that, after, the transfer of the first adhesion promoter to the substrate and/or before the application of the transfer ply to the substrate with the first adhesion promoter transferred in the first region, the precuring device precures the first adhesion promoter.

33. (canceled)

34. (canceled)

35. (canceled)

36. (canceled)

37. (canceled)

38. (canceled)

39. (canceled)

40. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein the printing device, comprises a peeling-off device, which is formed in such a way that the carrier film of the transfer film is peeled off, wherein the transfer ply remains on the substrate in the first region.

41. The printing device according to claim 40, wherein a curing device is arranged, before the peeling-off device and/or after the first transfer unit.

42. (canceled)

43. (canceled)

44. (canceled)

45. (canceled)

46. (canceled)

47. A methods for transferring a transfer ply of a transfer film to a substrate by means of a printing device, which comprises the following step: transferring a first adhesion promoter by means of a first printing unit, which has a first transfer unit comprising a transfer cylinder with a transfer medium and a first substrate cylinder, wherein the first adhesion promoter is transferred from the transfer medium to a first region of the surface of the substrate.

48. The method according to claim 47, wherein only a small amount of back splitting or substantially no back splitting takes place during the transfer of the first adhesion promoter from the transfer medium to the substrate.

49. The method according to claim 47, wherein the first adhesion promoter has a Newtonian behavior or an almost Newtonian behavior.

50. The method according to claim 47, wherein the first adhesion promoter has a viscosity in the range of from 200 mPa.Math.s to 5,000 mPa.Math.s.

51. The method according to claim 47, wherein the first adhesion promoter is transferred to the substrate with a deposition volume in the range of from 2 cm.sup.3/m.sup.2 to 10 cm.sup.3/m.sup.2, and/or with a deposition weight of from 3 g/m.sup.2 to 15 g/m.sup.2.

52. The method according to claim 47, wherein the first adhesion promoter is transferred from the transfer medium, to the substrate at least in regions with a resolution of at most 150 lpi, and/or at most 59 L/cm.

53. The method according to claim 47, wherein the method further comprises the following step: applying the transfer ply to the substrate by means of a second printing unit, which has a second transfer unit comprising a pressing cylinder with a pressing blanket and a second substrate cylinder, wherein the transfer ply is applied, from the pressing blanket, to the substrate with the first adhesion promoter transferred in the first region.

54. The method according to claim 47, wherein the application of the transfer ply to the substrate with the first adhesion promoter transferred in the first region is carried out with a contact pressure, wherein the contact pressure is set via the spacing of the pressing blanket and the second substrate cylinder.

55. (canceled)

56. The method according to claim 47, wherein the first transfer unit further comprises an anilox roller, wherein the first adhesion promoter is transferred to the transfer medium of the first transfer unit by means of the anilox roller.

57. The method according to claim 47, wherein the first transfer unit further comprises a chamber doctor blade system, wherein the first adhesion promoter is transferred from the chamber doctor blade system to the anilox roller.

58. (canceled)

59. The method according to claim 47, wherein the first printing unit has a first inking unit that can be coupled and decoupled and comprises at least one first inking roller and a first plate cylinder and/or wherein a second printing unit has a second inking unit that can be coupled and decoupled and comprises at least one second inking roller and a second plate cylinder (811).

60. The method according to claim 47, wherein the first printing unit has a first dampening unit that can be coupled and decoupled and comprises at least one first dampening roller and/or wherein a second printing unit has a second dampening unit that can be coupled and decoupled and comprises at least one second dampening roller.

61. (canceled)

62. (canceled)

63. The method according to claim 47, wherein the first and/or a second printing unit comprises a curing device, wherein the following step is carried out: curing the first adhesion promoter by means of the curing device.

64. The method according to claim 63, wherein the first adhesion promoter is cured by means of the curing device after, the transfer of the transfer ply to the substrate with the first adhesion promoter transferred in the first region.

65. The method according to claim 63, wherein the first adhesion promoter is cured by means of irradiation during the curing.

66. The method according to claim 47, the first adhesion promoter is cured on a curing section of between 10 cm and 60 cm.

67. The method according to claim 47, wherein the first and/or a second printing unit comprises a precuring device, wherein the following step is implemented: precuring the first adhesion promoter after, the transfer of the first adhesion promoter to the substrate and/or before the application of the transfer ply to the substrate with the first adhesion promoter.

68. (canceled)

69. (canceled)

70. (canceled)

71. (canceled)

72. The method according to claim 47, wherein the printing device, comprises a peeling-off device, wherein the following step is implemented: peeling off the carrier film of the transfer film, in such a way that the transfer ply remains on the substrate in the first region.

73. (canceled)

74. The method according to claim 47, wherein the transfer ply has a smoothness, of at least 200 s and/or has a surface smoothness, in the range of from 0.05 μm to 1.5 μm, and/or has a gloss, greater than 500 GU in the case of a measurement geometry of 60° and/or greater than 100 GU in the case of a measurement geometry of 85°.

75. The method according to claim 47, wherein the substrate has, a surface smoothness, in the range of from 0.5 μm to 2.0 μm, and/or has a gloss in the range of from 20% to 80%.

76. The method according to claim 47, wherein the substrate has a pick resistance, of from 0.5 m/s to 4 m/s.

77. The method according to claim 47, wherein the substrate has a penetration behavior in the range of from 0.9 OD to 1.3 OD (OD=Optical Density).

78. (canceled)

79. (canceled)

Description

[0265] In the following, the invention is explained by way of example with reference to several embodiment examples with the aid of the attached drawings. There are shown in:

[0266] FIG. 1 schematically shows a printing device and a method,

[0267] FIGS. 2a and 2b schematically show a transfer cylinder and a transfer medium,

[0268] FIGS. 3a and 3b schematically show a substrate in a printing device and a method,

[0269] FIG. 4 schematically shows a printing unit,

[0270] FIG. 5 schematically shows a transfer unit,

[0271] FIGS. 6a to 6c schematically show an anilox roller,

[0272] FIG. 7 schematically shows a printing unit,

[0273] FIG. 8 schematically shows a printing device,

[0274] FIG. 9 schematically shows a printing unit,

[0275] FIGS. 10 and 11a and 11b schematically show a printing unit,

[0276] FIGS. 12 to 14 schematically show a printing device and a method,

[0277] FIGS. 15a and 15b schematically show an inking unit and a dampening unit,

[0278] FIGS. 16 and 17 schematically show a transfer film.

[0279] FIG. 1 schematically shows a printing device, which is in particular an offset printing device, for transferring the transfer ply 2 of the transfer film 3 to the substrate 1.

[0280] The printing device has the first printing unit 4, which has the first transfer unit 41 comprising the transfer cylinder 410 with the transfer medium 411. Further, the first printing unit 4 has the first substrate cylinder 412. The first transfer unit 41 of the first printing unit 4 here is designed in such a way that the first adhesion promoter 5 is transferred from the transfer medium 411 to the first region 11 of the surface of the substrate 1.

[0281] FIG. 1 further shows the method for transferring the transfer ply 2 of the transfer film 3 to the substrate 1, by means of the printing device represented, which is in particular an offset printing device.

[0282] The method comprises the following step and optionally further steps:

[0283] transferring the first adhesion promoter 5 by means of the first printing unit 4, which has the first transfer unit 41 comprising the transfer cylinder 410 with the transfer medium 411.

[0284] Further, the first printing unit 4 has the first substrate cylinder 412. The first adhesion promoter 5 here is transferred from the transfer medium 411 to the first region 11 of the surface of the substrate 1.

[0285] The substrate 1 here is preferably fed through a gap between the transfer cylinder 410 with the transfer medium 411 and the first substrate cylinder 412 in such a way that the first adhesion promoter 5 is transferred to the substrate 1.

[0286] The transfer of the first adhesion promoter 5 to the substrate 1 is preferably carried out with a contact pressure, wherein the contact pressure is settable and/or is set preferably via the spacing, in particular in the form of a gap, of the transfer medium 411 and/or the transfer cylinder 410 with the transfer medium 411 and the first substrate cylinder 412. Here, this spacing is in particular 0.00 mm. It is in particular also possible for this spacing to lie in the range of from −0.5 mm to +0.75 mm, preferably in the range of from −0.1 mm to +0.3 mm and/or to be able to be set in this range. These negative and positive values relate in particular to a basic setting of the first substrate cylinder 412 relative to the transfer cylinder 410, and in particular relative to the surface of the transfer medium 411, preferably also taking the layer size and/or layer thickness of the substrate 1 into account. From this basic setting, the pressure on the substrate 1 can now be reduced, in particular by setting negative values, for example −0.1 mm, and/or be increased, in particular by setting positive values, e.g. +0.3 mm.

[0287] FIG. 2a shows the transfer cylinder 410 with the transfer medium 411, which preferably has or consists of the carrier plate 4111 and the outer layer 4112, which is arranged in particular on the side of the carrier plate 4111 facing away from the transfer cylinder 410.

[0288] FIG. 2b shows the outer layer 4112 in a top view, wherein the transfer medium 411 is preferably not stretched over the transfer cylinder 410, or a schematic unwinding of the outer layer 4112.

[0289] The regions depicted black here preferably show raised regions, which form one or more motifs.

[0290] The lines of the transfer medium 411 here have in particular a line thickness of between 0.1 mm and 0.5 mm. The positive type and the negative type are legible up to a type size of 5 pt, in particular if the type is formed by the transfer ply 2 after the carrier film 31 has been peeled off of the transfer ply 2. Here, for example, one motif of the several motifs shown has a grid width of 42 lines/cm. Further, with the transfer medium 411 it is preferably possible for the first adhesion promoter 5 to be transferred to the substrate with a tonal value in the range of from 35% to 75%.

[0291] The transfer medium 411 here has, for example, a thickness in the range of from 0.5 mm to 10 mm, in particular in the range of from 0.76 mm to 6.35 mm, and/or a length in the range of from 500 mm to 2,000 mm and/or a width in the range of from 500 mm to 1,500 mm. Here, the thickness at the position at which the maximum thickness of the total of the thickness of the carrier plate 4111 and preferably the thickness of the outer layer 4112 is located is preferably indicated.

[0292] Further, it is possible for the transfer medium 411 to comprise the carrier plate 4111, which in particular comprises or consists of polyester, preferably PET (polyethylene terephthalate), and/or metal, preferably aluminum. The carrier plate 4111 preferably has a thickness in the range of from 1.0 mm to 2.0 mm, in particular in the range of from 1.0 mm to 1.5 mm, for example a thickness of 1.16 mm. It is also conceivable that the total of the layer thickness of the carrier plate 4111 and the outer layer 4112 preferably lies in the above range.

[0293] The transfer medium 411, in particular the outer layer 4112 of the transfer medium 411, preferably comprises one or more motifs. The one or more motifs are preferably introduced into the transfer medium 411, in particular the outer layer 4112 of the transfer medium 411, photochemically, in particular by means of exposure to light and etching, and/or by means of milling, engraving and/or laser machining.

[0294] The transfer medium 411 and/or the outer layer 4112 of the transfer medium 411 here is preferably a varnish plate from Dupont Cyrel of the EASY FAST EFM 45 type. The outer layer here has, for example, a thickness of 1.14 mm.

[0295] It is thus possible for the first adhesion promoter 5 to be transferred to the substrate 1 in the first region 11 over the whole surface and/or partially, in particular in the form of one or more patterns and/or motifs, by means of the transfer medium 411.

[0296] The transfer medium 411 preferably has the outer layer 4112, which preferably comprises or consists of a photopolymer. Preferably, the transfer medium 411, in particular the outer layer 4112 of the transfer medium 411 comprising a photopolymer, has been or is exposed to light and full-cured, preferably exposed to light and full-cured patterned, by means of a mask, in particular a black mask. Excess polymer is then preferably removed, for example washed out or removed as powder. In particular, one or more motifs, for example a positive motif which is applied to the carrier plate 4111 relief-like, remain behind.

[0297] The transfer medium 411 is thus used for example for inline and/or offline print finishing with dispersion varnishes, but for example also for UV varnishes. The adhesion promoter 5, in particular in the form of a UV flexographic glue, an aqueous flexographic glue or a solvent-based flexographic glue, is preferably transferred to the substrate 1 by means of such a transfer medium 411.

[0298] It has proved to be advantageous that the first adhesion promoter 5 is transferred from the transfer medium 411, in particular from the outer layer 4112, to the substrate 1 at least in regions with a resolution of at most 150 lpi, in particular of at most 120 lpi, and/or of at most 59 lines/cm, preferably of at most 47 lines/cm.

[0299] The advantage is hereby achieved in particular that the principle-based maximum resolution for transferring the transfer ply to the substrate can be achieved by means of the transfer medium, wherein the maximum possible gloss of the transfer ply is in particular increased after the transfer.

[0300] For this, it is expedient that the transfer medium 411, in particular the outer layer 4112 of the transfer medium 411, preferably at least one first motif of the one or more motifs, has a grid width of at most 150 lpi, in particular of at most 120 lpi, and/or of at most 59 lines/cm, preferably of at most 47 lines/cm. It is also possible for the transfer medium 411, in particular the outer layer 4112 of the transfer medium 411, preferably at least one second motif of the one or more motifs, to have a grid width of at most 150 lpi, in particular of at most 120 lpi, and/or of at most 59 lines/cm, in particular of at most 47 lines/cm.

[0301] It is possible here for the one or more motifs of the transfer medium 411, in particular the outer layer 4112 of the transfer medium 411, to comprise one or more lines with a line thickness in the range of from 0.05 mm to 0.9 mm, in particular in the range of from 0.1 mm to 0.15 mm.

[0302] For example, the transfer medium 411, in particular at least one motif of the one or more motifs, here has a thinnest standalone line of 0.15 mm and/or of 6 mil and in particular a smallest standalone dot of 0.15 mm and/or of 150 microns.

[0303] Further, the transfer medium, in particular at least one motif of the one or more motifs, here has for example a relief depth of 0.55 mm.

[0304] Further, it is possible for the transfer medium 411, in particular the outer layer 4112 of the transfer medium 411, to have a hardness in the range of from 50 Shore A to 80 Shore A, in particular from 55 Shore A to 60 Shore A. For example, the transfer medium here has a hardness of 73 Shore A.

[0305] In particular, it is possible for the transfer medium 411, in particular the outer layer 4112 of the transfer medium 411, preferably the one or more motifs, to have a surface roughness, preferably an Ra value, in the range of from 0.05 μm to 1 μm, in particular in the range of from 0.2 μm to 0.8 μm.

[0306] The surface of the transfer medium 411, in particular the outer layer 4112, preferably the one or more motifs, is thus advantageously smooth enough to guarantee a very good transfer of the first adhesion promoter, in particular wherein only a small dot gain takes place.

[0307] Further, in particular, the wettability of the transfer medium 411 with the first adhesion promoter is hereby improved. For example, a back splitting of the adhesion promoter 5 can be prevented for the most part or completely. Further, it is hereby preferably guaranteed that the adhesion promoter 5 does not run or drip in an uncontrolled manner on the transfer medium 411, and pick forces acting on the substrate which are too strong are preferably prevented.

[0308] As the transfer medium 411, at least one from the following table is preferably used, wherein the thinnest standalone line preferably has a width of 0.15 mm and/or the smallest standalone dot has a diameter of 0.15 mm.

TABLE-US-00005 Thickness in mm 1.14 1.70 2.54 2.84 Shore A hardness 73 65 56 55 Tonal value in % 1 to 98 1 to 98 1 to 98 1 to 98 Grid width in lines/cm 75 75 54 54 Relief depth in mm 0.55 0.65 0.80 0.90

[0309] The first transfer unit 41 comprising the transfer cylinder 410 with the transfer medium 411 is preferably used in a printing device, in particular used in an offset printing device.

[0310] The advantage is thus achieved in particular that the range of the materials that can be printed by means of this printing device, in particular this offset printing device, is increased and preferably conversion times are reduced.

[0311] FIG. 3a schematically shows a substrate 1 with the adhesion promoter 5 applied thereto in the first region 11.

[0312] Here, it is preferably also conceivable that in partial regions a second adhesion promoter is applied instead of the first adhesion promoter 5.

[0313] FIG. 3b schematically shows a substrate 1 with first adhesion promoter 5 transferred in the first region 11, as is also outlined for example in FIG. 1.

[0314] FIG. 3b schematically illustrates the substrate 1 in the printing device, in particular offset printing device, shown in FIG. 1 for transferring the transfer ply 2 of the transfer film 3 to the substrate 1, which transfers the first adhesion promoter 5 to the substrate 1. Further, the transfer of the first adhesion promoter 5 to the substrate 1, which is illustrated in particular with the upper arrow, in the method for transferring the transfer ply 2 of the transfer film 3 to the substrate 1 is shown. In addition, an optional running of the surface of the transferred adhesion promoter 5 is shown schematically with the middle arrow. By means of the arrows, transitions between the schematically represented states a), b), c) and/or d) are shown in particular.

[0315] State a) shows the substrate in particular before the first adhesion promoter 5 is applied to the substrate 1 and/or to the first substrate cylinder 412 in the conveying direction of the substrate 1 before the gap between the transfer cylinder 410, in particular with the transfer medium 411, and the first substrate cylinder 412.

[0316] State b) shows in particular the surface of the first adhesion promoter 5 with a degree of surface roughness, which is only schematically shown very rough here.

[0317] State c) preferably shows schematically the surface finish of the first adhesion promoter 5 after it has run in an advantageous manner in particular owing to its flow properties and deformation properties.

[0318] The lower arrow shows in particular the application of the transfer ply 2 of the transfer film 3 to the substrate. State d) shows the substrate 1 with the first adhesion promoter 5 and the transfer ply 2 subsequently applied to the first adhesion promoter 5, the surface finish of which depends in particular on the surface finish of the adhesion promoter 5 and its flow properties and deformation properties and the surface finish of which here is advantageously particularly smooth and/or glossy.

[0319] In particular, a not depicted lateral running of the first adhesion promoter 5 is also conceivable here, which is controlled by means of the precuring and/or the precuring device.

[0320] It is particularly preferably possible for the method to be carried out in such a way and/or for the printing device, in particular offset printing device, to be formed in such a way that the transfer ply 2, in particular measured after the carrier film 31 of the transfer film 3 has been peeled off, has a smoothness, in particular measured according to Bekk in accordance with DIN 53107:2016-05, preferably with a Bekk Smoothness Tester, preferably of the type 533 from Messmer Büchel, of at least 200 s and/or has a surface smoothness, in particular measured according to the Parker Print Surf (PPS) method, preferably using the air leak method according to DIN ISO 8791-4:2008-05, preferably by means of a Parker Print Surf PPS 90 tester from Messmer Büchel, in the range of from 0.05 μm to 1.5 μm, preferably in the range of from 0.1 μm to 1 μm.

[0321] Further, it is possible for the method to be carried out in such a way and/or for the printing device, in particular the offset printing device, to be formed in such a way that the transfer ply 2, in particular measured after the carrier film 31 of the transfer film 3 has been peeled off, has a gloss, in particular, greater than 500 GU with a measurement geometry of 60° and/or greater than 100 GU with a measurement geometry of 85°, preferably measured with a device of the type “micro tri gloss” from Byk Gardner. These measurement devices serve in particular to determine the gloss level, preferably of varnish coatings, plastics, ceramic and/or metallic surfaces. The surface is in particular spotlighted at a defined angle and the reflected light is preferably measured photoelectrically, preferably by means of a reflectometer. The measurement device corresponds in particular to the standards DIN 67530, ISO 2813, ASTM D 523 and/or BS 3900 Part D5. In particular with the “micro tri gloss” device, the gloss is preferably determined in gloss units or reflectance.

[0322] The gloss, the smoothness and/or the surface smoothness of the transfer ply 2 and/or of the substrate 1 with the transfer ply 2 is preferably measured in the first region 11, in particular measured on the surface of the transfer ply 2 in the first region 11.

[0323] With respect to the testers, testing devices, measurement devices and/or measurement methods, reference is made in particular to the above statements.

[0324] It is expedient here that only a small amount of back splitting or substantially no back splitting takes place during the transfer of the first adhesion promoter 5 from the transfer medium 411 to the substrate 1. For example, it is also possible for small quantities of the adhesion promoter 5 to remain on the transfer medium 411 during the transfer thereof to the substrate 1. However, the quantity is in particular kept small. A small amount of back splitting has, as described above, the advantage in particular that the surface of the first adhesion promoter 5, directly after the transfer, is already relatively smooth.

[0325] Further, it is expedient that the first adhesion promoter 5 has a Newtonian behavior or an almost Newtonian behavior, in particular measured in a state before the first adhesion promoter 5 is delivered to the first transfer unit 41 and/or while the first adhesion promoter 5 is being transferred to the substrate 1. In particular, the previously described running is hereby possible. In particular, a non-Newtonian or almost non-Newtonian behavior in contrast would not allow any or would only allow a slight running.

[0326] The viscosity, in particular the dynamic viscosity, of the first adhesion promoter 5 preferably deviates from a constant viscosity, in particular a constant dynamic viscosity, and/or a Newtonian behavior, at most with a tolerance in the range of from 50 mPa.Math.s to 250 mPa.Math.s, preferably in the range of from 50 mPa.Math.s to 200 mPa.Math.s, preferably in the range of from 50 mPa.Math.s to 150 mPa.Math.s, wherein the constant viscosity, in particular the constant dynamic viscosity, is preferably an average value around which the tolerance values vary.

[0327] It is expedient that the first adhesion promoter 5 has a viscosity, preferably a dynamic viscosity, in the range of from 200 mPa.Math.s to 5,000 mPa.Math.s, preferably in the range of from 500 mPa.Math.s to 1,500 mPa.Math.s, in particular measured in a state before the first adhesion promoter 5 is delivered to the first transfer unit 41 and/or while the first adhesion promoter 5 is being transferred to the substrate 1. In the case of the viscosity, in particular dynamic viscosity, indicated in the above range it can in particular also be an average value around which in particular the tolerance values vary.

[0328] Newtonian behavior or almost Newtonian behavior and such a viscosity thus have the advantage in particular that the surface roughness of the first adhesion promoter 5 can be reduced further after the transfer to the substrate 1 due to the flowability of the first adhesion promoter 5.

[0329] The tackiness of the first adhesion promoter 5 is preferably improved. A viscosity, as described above, of the first adhesion promoter 5 contributes in particular to such a tackiness. The measurement of the tackiness here is carried out in particular as described above.

[0330] It is expedient in particular that the first adhesion promoter 5 is transferred to the substrate 1 with a deposition volume in the range of from 2 cm.sup.3/m.sup.2 to 10 cm.sup.3/m.sup.2, preferably in the range of from 2.5 cm.sup.3/m.sup.2 to 7 cm.sup.3/m.sup.2, and/or with a deposition weight of from 3 g/m.sup.2 to 15 g/m.sup.2, preferably in the range of from 4 g/m.sup.2 to 8 g/m.sup.2.

[0331] The adhesion promoter 5 is for example a glue of the WF UV 31 LMI type from LEONHARD KURZ Stiftung & Co. KG and/or with the following composition:

TABLE-US-00006 Propylidynetrimethanol, ethoxylated, esters with acrylic acid 30-60% Chlorinated polyester acrylate 10-20% Acrylated resin  5-20% 1,1,1-Trihydroxymethylpropyl triacrylate 10-20% 1-Butanone, 2-(dimethylamino)-2-((4-methylphenyl)methyl)-   <5% 1-(4-(4-morpholinyl)phenyl) Pentaerythritol triacrylate and Pentaerythritol tetraacrylate  <2.5% reaction product Glyceryl propoxy triacrylate <2.55 Polyol acrylate   <1% 2,6-Di-tert.-butyl-4-methylphenol <0.25% Hydroquinone <0.25%

[0332] The substrate 1 advantageously has, in particular measured before the transfer of the first adhesion promoter 5 to the substrate 1, a surface smoothness, preferably measured according to PPS 10, ISO 8791-4, in the range of from 0.5 μm to 2.0 μm, preferably with a tolerance in the range of from 0.01 μm to 0.2 μm. It is also possible for the substrate 1 to have a gloss in the range of from 20% to 80%, preferably in the range of from 50% to 75%, in particular measured according to TAPPI® T480, preferably with the measurement device microgloss 75° from BYK Gardner, preferably at an angle of 75°.

[0333] Further, it is expedient that the substrate 1 has a pick resistance, in particular measured before the transfer of the first adhesion promoter 5 to the substrate 1, preferably measured according to ISO 3783:2006-07, preferably with the measurement device Amsterdam 5 (4 m/s) from IGT, of from 0.5 m/s to 4 m/s, in particular from 0.75 m/s to 4 m/s.

[0334] It has proved to be advantageous in particular that the substrate 1, in particular measured before the transfer of the first adhesion promoter 5 to the substrate 1, has a penetration behavior in the range of from 0.9 OD to 1.3 OD (OD=Optical Density). The penetration behavior is measured in particular on a test printing device from IGT.

[0335] With respect to the testing devices and/or measurement methods for the gloss, the surface smoothness, the penetration behavior and/or the pick resistance of the substrate 1, reference is made in particular to the above statements.

[0336] The substrate 1 preferably has a surface that has been coated at least twice and is as smooth as possible, and it is preferably not very absorbent. Further, the substrate 1 preferably has a grammage, in particular a specific weight, of between 70 g/m.sup.2 and 350 g/m.sup.2.

[0337] Further, it is possible for the substrate 1 to be a substrate of the Ensocoat 2S, Invercote G or Performa White type, in particular from Stora Enso and/or Iggesund Paperboard.

[0338] It is possible in particular for substrate to be processed in sheets, wherein four examples are named below.

[0339] In a first example, 10,000 sheets are processed per hour. This preferably corresponds to approx. 7,200 m per hour and/or 120 m per minute. Between the transfer of the first adhesion promoter 5 and the application of the transfer ply 2 to the substrate 1 with the adhesion promoter 5 transferred in the first region 11, the substrate 1 with the adhesion promoter 5 is conveyed over a section in the range of from 1 m to 1.2 m and/or in a period of from 0.5 s to 0.6 s. A conveying from the application of the transfer ply 2 to the substrate 1 with the adhesion promoter 5 transferred in the first region 11 to the curing and/or the curing device is preferably carried out here over a section of 0.2 m and/or lasts 0.1 s.

[0340] In a second example, 8,000 sheets are processed per hour. This preferably corresponds to approx. 5,760 m per hour and/or 96 m per minute. Between the transfer of the first adhesion promoter 5 and the application of the transfer ply 3 to the substrate 1 with the adhesion promoter 5 transferred in the first region 11, the substrate 1 with the adhesion promoter 5 is conveyed over a section in the range of from 1 m to 1.2 m and/or in a period of from 0.62 s to 0.75 s. A conveying from the application of the transfer ply 2 to the substrate 1 with the adhesion promoter 5 transferred in the first region 11 to the curing and/or the curing device is preferably carried out here over a section of 0.2 m and/or lasts 0.125 s.

[0341] In a third example, 12,000 sheets are processed per hour. This preferably corresponds to approx. 8,640 m per hour and/or 144 m per minute. Between the transfer of the first adhesion promoter 5 and the application of the transfer ply 2 to the substrate 1 with the adhesion promoter 5 transferred in the first region 11, the substrate 1 with the adhesion promoter 5 is conveyed over a section in the range of from 1 m to 1.2 m and/or in a period of from 0.42 s to 0.5 s. A conveying from the application of the transfer ply 2 to the substrate 1 with the adhesion promoter 5 transferred in the first region 11 to the curing and/or the curing device is preferably carried out here over a section of 0.2 m and/or lasts 0.083 s.

[0342] In a fourth example, 20,000 sheets are processed per hour. This preferably corresponds to approx. 14,400 m per hour and/or 240 m per minute. Between the transfer of the first adhesion promoter 5 and the application of the transfer ply 2 to the substrate 1 with the adhesion promoter 5 transferred in the first region 11, the substrate 1 with the adhesion promoter 5 is conveyed over a section in the range of from 1 m to 1.2 m and/or in a period of from 0.25 s to 0.3 s. A conveying from the application of the transfer ply 2 to the substrate 1 with the adhesion promoter 5 transferred in the first region 11 to the curing and/or the curing device is preferably carried out here over a section of 0.2 m and/or lasts 0.05 s.

[0343] FIG. 4 shows the first printing unit 4 described in FIG. 1, and in particular with the transfer cylinder 410 described in FIG. 2a and FIG. 2b with the transfer medium 411, except that the first transfer unit 41 further comprises the anilox roller 9.

[0344] The anilox roller 9 is preferably formed in such a way that it transfers the first adhesion promoter 5 to the transfer medium 411 of the first transfer unit 41.

[0345] In particular, the anilox roller 9 can be coupled and decoupled, which is represented here by the double arrow. At least the anilox roller 9 is preferably formed displaceable and/or rotatable and/or removable. The first adhesion promoter 5 is transferred to the transfer medium 411 of the first transfer unit 41 by means of the anilox roller 9, in particular wherein the anilox roller 9 can be coupled and decoupled.

[0346] Further, the first printing unit 4 depicted in FIG. 4 here optionally comprises the first inking unit 71, which has at least the first inking roller 710 and the first plate cylinder 711. The first inking unit 71 here can preferably be coupled and decoupled, which is represented here by the double arrow. At least the first plate cylinder 711 and/or the first inking unit 71 is preferably formed displaceable and/or rotatable and/or removable.

[0347] By “can be coupled and decoupled” is meant here in particular that a connection to the transfer medium 411 and/or the transfer cylinder 410, which makes a transfer of an adhesion promoter, in particular the first and/or second adhesion promoter, and/or a printing ink, from the component that can be coupled and decoupled to the transfer medium 411 possible, can be produced and removed. This preferably also applies in the case of a first inking unit 71 and/or dampening unit that can be coupled and decoupled.

[0348] FIG. 5 shows in particular the first transfer unit 41 described in FIG. 4, wherein a chamber doctor blade system 42 is further arranged on the anilox roller 9.

[0349] It is thus possible for the first transfer unit 4 further to comprise a chamber doctor blade system 42 which is formed in such a way that the first adhesion promoter 5 is transferred from the chamber doctor blade system 42 to the anilox roller 9. In particular, the chamber doctor blade system 42 here can preferably be coupled and decoupled together with the anilox roller 9.

[0350] Here, it is possible for the chamber doctor blade system 42 to comprise a reservoir, not represented in more detail here, for the first adhesion promoter 5 and a delivery system, not represented in more detail here, for the first adhesion promoter 5. The chamber doctor blade system 42 preferably transfers the first adhesion promoter 5 from a chamber to the anilox roller 9 and scrapes the first adhesion promoter 5 off by means of doctor blades. A negative pressure, which advantageously prevents a foaming of the first adhesion promoter, preferably prevails in the chamber doctor blade system 42.

[0351] Instead of a chamber doctor blade system 42, a dip tank system, preferably with a tank and a dip roller, is also conceivable, wherein the first adhesion promoter 5 is transferred from the tank via the dip roller to the anilox roller 9 and is preferably scraped off the anilox roller 9 by means of one or more doctor blades.

[0352] FIG. 6a shows an anilox roller 9, such as is also used for example in a first transfer unit 41 of the previously described figures, with an engraving 90. The engraving 90 is in particular arranged and/or introduced on the lateral surface of the anilox roller 9.

[0353] FIG. 6b shows an example of a detail of the lateral surface of the anilox roller 91 with an engraving 90, as is described in FIG. 6a.

[0354] Such an engraving 90 preferably has wells 911 and bars 912. The wells here preferably take up the adhesion promoter 5, in particular from the chamber doctor blade system 42, and are at least partially emptied during the transfer of the adhesion promoter 5 to the transfer medium 411.

[0355] Bars are preferably raised regions on the lateral surface of the anilox roller 9. Wells are preferably recessed regions on the lateral surface of the anilox roller 9. The doctor blades of the chamber doctor blade system 42 preferably press on the bars, with the result that the adhesion promoter 5 is scraped off them. In particular with the aid of a counter-rotating doctor blade, preferably less frequently under squeezing pressure, the anilox roller surface, thus preferably the bars, is freed of protruding first adhesion promoter 5. Thus, a defined and thus controllable quantity of adhesion promoter remains only in the recesses, thus in particular in the wells. The anilox roller 9 transfers the adhesion promoter 5 to the transfer medium 411, preferably because the recesses always empty uniformly. In particular, however, the emptying is never complete, and an adhesion promoter purging preferably takes place inside the wells during each rotation of the anilox roller 9. Through the rotation of the anilox roller 9 and the uniform take-up and removal of the first adhesion promoter 5 preferably accompanying it, the first transfer unit 41 is preferably supplied with a defined and reproducible adhesion promoter volume.

[0356] FIG. 6c shows three wells with equal pick-up volume 901, the emptying volumes 902 of which differ. The wells are also called cells for example.

[0357] The spatial volume of the cells underneath the bar overlay is preferably described by the pick-up volume. The item of volume data is in particular a theoretical value and is not identical to the actual emptying behavior of the cells. For example, a varying emptying is effected in the case of different cell shape, but identical grid width and identical volume. In addition, in particular, factors such as rheological properties of the adhesion promoter 5 and/or a printing ink, and for example its color, surface tension, printing infeed, speed, printing substrate, which here is preferably formed by the substrate, and further influencing factors have an influence on the actual pick-up volume of the anilox roller 9. In particular, the wells 911 located on the anilox roller surface represent an influencing factor for the pick-up volume through their geometry and distribution. For example, they indicate substantially what quantity of a liquid and/or the adhesion promoter 5 is taken up by the anilox roller 9, transported further to the transfer medium 411 and released again onto the surface of the substrate 1.

[0358] In particular, the above-described advantage is hereby achieved that the printing device, in particular offset printing device, can process a larger range of printing inks and/or adhesion promoters.

[0359] It is thus expedient that the anilox roller 9 has a pick-up volume in the range of from 10 cm.sup.3/m.sup.2 to 30 cm.sup.3/m.sup.2, in particular in the range of from 15 cm.sup.3/m.sup.2 to 25 cm.sup.3/m.sup.2, and/or in the range of from 6.45 BCM to 19.35 BCM, in particular in the range of from 9.67 BCM to 16.12 BCM. BCM is preferably the abbreviation for billion cubic microns. In particular, one BCM corresponds to 1.55 cm.sup.3/m.sup.2. The deposition volume is for example 22 cm.sup.3/m.sup.2 and/or 14 BCM. The glue density is for example 1 g/ml. One milliliter (ml) corresponds in particular to one cubic centimeter (cm.sup.3). One cubic centimeter per square meter (cm.sup.3/m.sup.2) preferably corresponds to 1 μm of layer thickness. Further data are given in particular in g/m.sup.2 or ml/m.sup.2.

[0360] The emptying volume and/or deposition volume from the anilox roller 9 to the first transfer medium 411 preferably corresponds to the deposition volume of the first adhesion promoter 5 on the substrate 5.

[0361] Further, it is expedient that the first adhesion promoter 5, in particular measured before, during or after the transfer of the first adhesion promoter 5 to the substrate 1 and/or before the application of the transfer ply 2 to the substrate 1, has a sufficiently high surface tension.

[0362] It is possible for the grid width of the anilox roller 9 to lie preferably in a range of from 20 L/cm to 200 L/cm, in particular in a range of from 40 L/cm to 100 L/cm, preferably in a range of from 40 L/cm to 80 L/cm. A deposition of the adhesion promoter 5 over the whole surface of the transfer medium 410, in particular the outer layer 4112 of the transfer medium, preferably on its one or more motifs, is advantageously made possible hereby. The grid width is preferably also called ruling. The grid width here is for example 80 L/cm.

[0363] Further, it is advantageous that the anilox roller 9 has an engraving angle in the range of from 30° to 90°, in particular in the range of from 45° to 60°. Here, the anilox roller has for example an engraving angle of 60°.

[0364] The engraving angle is preferably calculated as the angular position relative to the roller axis, in particular in a view from above. The engraving angle is in particular determined by measuring the angle between a line parallel to the anilox roller axis and a straight line which follows contiguous bars and/or a contiguous series of wells.

[0365] The anilox roller 9 is for example a ceramic anilox roller and/or a chrome anilox roller. Here, the roller blank and/or base body is in particular made of steel, stainless steel and/or fiber-reinforced plastic and the surface which in particular bears the grid and/or the engraving is preferably made of chrome or ceramic. Here, it is possible for a copper layer to be electroplated onto the roller blank and in particular for only an outermost protective layer made of chrome and/or ceramic to be applied.

[0366] Chrome anilox rollers preferably have grid finenesses of up to 200 L/cm. It is also conceivable that in particular ceramic anilox rollers with a grid width in the range of from 500 L/cm to 600 L/cm are used.

[0367] The engraving has in particular one or more of the engraving types selected from truncated pyramids, cell, spherical cap, hachure, in particular line structure, hachure with wells and/or hexagonal shape.

[0368] FIG. 7 shows the first printing unit 4 described in FIG. 4, in particular with an anilox roller 9 described in FIGS. 6a to 6c, except that the first printing unit 4 comprises the precuring device 101.

[0369] It is thus possible for the first printing unit 4 to comprise a precuring device 101 which is arranged in such a way that, after, in particular immediately after, preferably 0.05 s to 0.2 s after, the transfer of the first adhesion promoter 5 to the substrate 1 and/or before the application of the transfer ply 2 to the substrate 1 with the first adhesion promoter 5 transferred in the first region 11, the precuring device 101 precures the first adhesion promoter 5.

[0370] FIG. 7 thus describes in particular that the first printing unit 4 comprises the precuring device 101, wherein the following step is implemented:

[0371] precuring the first adhesion promoter 5 after, in particular immediately after, preferably 0.05 s to 0.2 s after, the transfer of the first adhesion promoter 5 to the substrate 1 and/or before the application of the transfer ply 2 to the substrate 1 with the first adhesion promoter 5.

[0372] Preferably, the precuring is carried out in such a way and/or the precuring device 101 is formed in such a way that the power of the precuring device 101, in particular the gross irradiance, lies in a range of from 2 W/cm.sup.2 to 5 W/cm.sup.2. The net irradiance preferably lies in a range of from 0.7 W/cm.sup.2 to 2 W/cm.sup.2 and/or the energy input by the precuring device into the first adhesion promoter 5 lies in a range of from 8 mJ/cm.sup.2 to 112 mJ/cm.sup.2. It is hereby achieved that the first adhesion promoter 5 undergoes the desired viscosity increase, but is not completely full-cured, with the result that, when the transfer ply 2 is applied to the substrate 1, the necessary adhesive action of the adhesion promoter 5 is preserved.

[0373] The precuring of the first adhesion promoter 5 is preferably effected with an exposure time of from 0.02 s to 0.056 s. At the mentioned processing speeds and/or transport speeds of the substrate 1 and the specified irradiances, the necessary energy input for the precuring is thus ensured.

[0374] It is expedient if, during the precuring of the first adhesion promoter 5, its viscosity increases to and/or by 200 mPa.Math.s to 400 mPa.Math.s. Such a viscosity increase guarantees that the adhesion promoter 5 is not squeezed during the application of the transfer ply 2 to the substrate 1, with the result that, after the peeling-off, the transfer ply 2 substantially remains on the substrate 1 with the resolution achieved during the printing of the first adhesion promoter 5.

[0375] In particular, it is also possible for the second printing unit and/or the conveyor element to comprise such a precuring device and/or for the corresponding step of precuring by means of a precuring device of the second printing unit to be carried out during the method.

[0376] After the transfer to the substrate 1, the first adhesion promoter 5 is hereby fixed very quickly through the precuring, with the result that an undesired running or spreading of the adhesion promoter 5 is largely prevented and the resolution is as well preserved as possible. For example, it is advantageously possible for the first adhesion promoter 5 to be smoothed on the surface by a running, but for a running that is too strong, with a negative influence on the resolution, to be suppressed or reduced by the precuring or the precuring device 101.

[0377] FIG. 8 shows the first printing unit 4 and the second printing unit 6, as well as a conveyor element 46.

[0378] It is thus expedient that the printing device has a second printing unit 6, in particular which is connected to the first printing unit 4 via the conveyor element 46. The conveyor element 46 preferably conveys the substrate 1 in particular from the first printing unit 4 to the second printing unit 6.

[0379] In the second printing unit 6, the application of the transfer ply 2 of the transfer film 3 to the substrate 1 with the first adhesion promoter 5 is preferably carried out in the first region 11.

[0380] FIG. 9 shows the second printing unit 6. The second printing unit 6 optionally has the second inking unit 81, which has the second inking roller 810 and the second plate cylinder 811. The second inking unit 81 can preferably be coupled and decoupled.

[0381] For the second inking unit and/or dampening unit, by “can be coupled and decoupled” is meant in particular that a connection to the pressing blanket 621 and/or the pressing cylinder 620 or preferably an offset printing blanket, which makes a transfer of an adhesion promoter 5, in particular the first and/or second adhesion promoter, and/or a printing ink, from the component that can be coupled and decoupled to the pressing blanket 621 and/or the pressing cylinder 620 or preferably an offset printing blanket possible, can be produced and removed. At least the second plate cylinder 811 and/or the second inking unit 81 is preferably formed displaceable and/or rotatable and/or removable.

[0382] FIG. 9 further describes by way of example that the second printing unit 6 preferably has the second transfer unit 62 and the second substrate cylinder 622. The second transfer unit comprises the pressing cylinder 620 with the pressing blanket 621 and is designed in such a way that the transfer ply 2 is applied, from the pressing blanket 621, to the substrate 1 with the first adhesion promoter 5 transferred in the first region 11.

[0383] FIG. 9 herewith also shows in particular that the method further comprises the following step, in particular after the transfer of the first adhesion promoter 5 to the substrate 1:

[0384] applying the transfer ply 2 to the substrate 1 by means of the second printing unit 6, which has a second transfer unit 62 comprising a pressing cylinder 620 with a pressing blanket 621 and a second substrate cylinder 622. The transfer ply 2 is applied, from the pressing blanket 621, to the substrate 1 with the first adhesion promoter 5 transferred in the first region 11.

[0385] In particular, the substrate 1 with the first adhesion promoter 5 here is fed through a gap between the pressing blanket 621 and the second substrate cylinder 622.

[0386] Further, it is expedient that one or more bearer rings are arranged on the pressing cylinder 620. The compression of the machine preferably lies between 0.0 mm and 0.1 mm. The pressing blanket is thus preferably compressed at least in regions by 0.0 mm to 0.1 mm during the transfer of the first adhesion promoter 5 to the substrate 1.

[0387] Here, it is possible for the application of the transfer ply 2 to the substrate 1 with the first adhesion promoter 5 transferred in the first region 11 to be carried out with a contact pressure.

[0388] The pressing blanket 621 and/or the second substrate cylinder 622 expediently generates a contact pressure, in particular on the substrate 1 with the first adhesion promoter 5 transferred in the first region 11 and/or the transfer ply 2, during the application of the transfer ply 2 to the substrate 1 with the first adhesion promoter 5 transferred in the first region. The contact pressure is preferably settable via the spacing of the pressing blanket 621 and the second substrate cylinder 622 and/or is set via this spacing. This spacing lies in particular in the range of from −0.5 mm to +0.75 mm, preferably in the range of from −0.1 mm to +0.3 mm and/or can be set in this range. These negative and positive values relate in particular to a basic setting of the substrate cylinder, preferably of the second substrate cylinder 622, relative to the pressing cylinder 620, in particular relative to the surface of the pressing blanket 621, preferably also taking the layer size and/or layer thickness of the substrate 1 into account. From this basic setting, the pressure on the substrate 1 can now be reduced, in particular by setting negative values, e.g. −0.1 mm, and/or be increased, in particular by setting positive values, e.g. +0.3 mm.

[0389] In particular, the pressing blanket 621 has a hardness in the range of from 50 Shore A to 90 Shore A, in particular in the range of from 70 Shore A to 90 Shore A. Further, the pressing blanket 621 preferably has a thickness in the range of from 1.5 mm to 2.5 mm, in particular in the range of from 1.71 mm to 1.96 mm.

[0390] These data preferably relate to different pressing blankets, in particular in the form of rubber blankets, and are in particular to be seen in the combination. For example, for the proof printing blanket 621, the properties from the following table are conceivable in particular:

TABLE-US-00007 Day Ebony Superpress Irio 8212 HC Supplier Streb Vulcan Flint Continental Color Black White Blue Black Thickness 1.85 mm 1.7 mm 1.98 mm 1.95 mm Hardness 88 Shore 65 Shore 81 Shore 55 Shore Properties Preferably used Preferably used Preferably Preferably for fine to for solid areas used for used for finest details, and rough solid areas solid areas grids, lines. undercoats and and in and in in particular for particular for particular fine details. a particularly for rougher high gloss. undercoats.

[0391] It is also possible for the pressing blanket 621 to have the properties from the following table:

TABLE-US-00008 Thickness in mm 1.85 1.71 1.96 1.96 1.96 Shore A hardness 88 65 65 81 55

[0392] FIG. 10 shows in particular the printing unit 6 described in FIG. 9, except that the deflecting rollers 91 and the curing device 100 are additionally shown here. Further, the optional peeling-off device 903 is shown.

[0393] It is thus expedient that the second printing unit 6 comprises the curing device 100 for curing the first adhesion promoter 5. It is further possible for the following step to be carried out, in particular after the first adhesion promoter 5 has been transferred to the substrate 1: [0394] curing the first adhesion promoter 5 by means of the curing device 100.

[0395] Further, it is preferably shown that the curing device 100 is arranged on the second substrate cylinder 622, in particular in such a way that the substrate 1 is arranged between the curing device 100 and the second substrate cylinder 622 during the curing of the first adhesion promoter 5. However, it is also conceivable that the curing device 100 is arranged on the first substrate cylinder 412 and/or on the conveyor element 46, in particular in such a way that the substrate 1 is arranged between the curing device 100 and the second substrate cylinder 622 during the curing of the first adhesion promoter 5.

[0396] Preferably, the curing is carried out in such a way and/or the curing device 100 is formed in such a way that the power of the curing device 100, in particular the gross irradiance, lies in a range of from 160 W/cm.sup.2 to 220 W/cm.sup.2, preferably for mercury vapor lamps, and/or from 12 W/cm.sup.2 to 20 W/cm.sup.2, preferably for UV LED lamps. Preferably, the net irradiance lies in a range of from 4.8 W/cm.sup.2 to 8 W/cm.sup.2 and/or the energy input by the curing device 100 into the first adhesion promoter 5 lies in the range of from 200 mJ/cm.sup.2 to 900 mJ/cm.sup.2.

[0397] The power, in particular the gross irradiance, of the curing device 100 in one or more individual impulses, in particular in two individual impulses, preferably lies in each case in a range of from 160 W/cm.sup.2 to 200 W/cm.sup.2, preferably for mercury vapor lamps, and/or from 12 W/cm.sup.2 to 20 W/cm.sup.2, preferably for UV LED lamps.

[0398] The curing of the first adhesion promoter 5 is preferably effected with an exposure time of from 0.04 s to 0.15 s. At the mentioned processing speeds and/or transport speeds of the substrate 1 and the specified irradiances, the necessary energy input for the curing is thus ensured.

[0399] It is expedient here that the curing device 100 cures the first adhesion promoter 5 on a curing section 111 of between 10 cm and 60 cm, in particular between 15 cm and 25 cm and/or between 20 cm and 30 cm, in particular wherein the curing section 111 comprises one or more first deflecting rollers 91, which are designed in such a way that they convey the substrate 1 with the transfer film 3 along the curing section 111. Here, for example, the deflecting roller 91 of the peeling-off device 903 preferably also forms a deflecting roller of the curing section 111.

[0400] It is thus possible for the first adhesion promoter 5 to be cured on a corresponding curing section 111, in particular wherein the substrate 1 with the transfer film 3 is conveyed over the curing section 111 by means of one or more first deflecting rollers 91.

[0401] Further, it is possible in particular for the substrate 1 with the adhesion promoter 5 to be conveyed together with the transfer film 3 over a section in a range of from 10 cm to 60 cm, in particular from 10 cm to 40 cm, preferably from 15 cm to 20 cm, in particular before the carrier film 31 of the transfer film 3 is peeled off.

[0402] Further, it is possible for the first adhesion promoter 5 to be cured by means of the curing device 100 after, in particular immediately after, preferably 0.05 s to 0.2 s after, the transfer of the transfer ply 2 to the substrate 1 with the first adhesion promoter transferred in the first region 11. It is herewith possible for the curing device 100 to be designed in such a way that it cures the first adhesion promoter 5 after, in particular immediately after, preferably 0.05 s to 0.2 s after, the transfer of the transfer ply 2 to the substrate 1 with the first adhesion promoter 5 transferred in the first region 11. The periods of time specified here are preferably based on the previously mentioned examples, preferably with a section of 0.2 m between film deposition, in particular the application of the transfer ply to the substrate, and curing, for example at 8,000 to 20,000 sheets per hour.

[0403] The first adhesion promoter 5 is preferably cured by means of irradiation during the curing, and in particular is irradiated through the transfer film 3, preferably through the carrier film 31 and/or the transfer ply 2 of the carrier film 31.

[0404] Further, FIG. 10 shows the possibility in particular that the printing device, in particular the second printing unit 6, comprises a peeling-off device 903. The peeling-off device 903 is preferably formed in such a way that the carrier film 31 of the transfer film 3 is peeled off, wherein the transfer ply 2 remains on the substrate 1 in the first region 11.

[0405] It is herewith possible for the printing device, in particular the second printing unit 6, to comprise the peeling-off device 903, wherein the following step is implemented: [0406] peeling off the carrier film 31 of the transfer film 3, in such a way that the transfer ply 2 remains on the substrate 1 in the first region 11.

[0407] This means in particular that the transfer ply 2 only remains on the substrate 1 where the first adhesion promoter 5 is being and/or has been transferred.

[0408] For the peeling-off, the peeling-off device 903 has for example rollers and/or deflecting rollers, for example the deflecting roller 91. Further, it is possible for the peeling-off device 903 to comprise separating blades for example.

[0409] It is possible for the peeling-off device to be formed in such a way that a carrier film of the transfer film 3 is peeled off, wherein the transfer ply 2 remains on the substrate 1 where adhesion promoter is applied to the substrate 1, and the transfer ply 2 is peeled off with the carrier film 31 where no adhesion promoter is applied to the substrate 1.

[0410] During the peeling-off it is possible for a small quantity of adhesion promoter, transfer ply 2 and/or further applied materials, such as printing ink, to be peeled off as well in an undesired manner. This quantity is advantageously particularly small here.

[0411] Further, it is shown for example that the curing device 100 is arranged, in particular in the conveying direction of the substrate 1, before the peeling-off device 903 and/or after the first transfer unit 41, in particular the transfer medium 411.

[0412] It is expedient that the curing, in particular in the conveying direction of the substrate 1, is carried out before the peeling-off of the transfer film 3 and/or after the transfer of the first adhesion promoter 5 to the substrate 1.

[0413] FIG. 11a shows the second printing unit 6 described in FIG. 10, except that a deflection device 21 with two deflection stations 22 is further shown, as well as the supply roll 30 and the take-up roll 300.

[0414] It is herewith possible for the second printing unit 6 to comprise a deflection device 21 with one or more deflection stations 22. The deflection device 21 is formed in such a way that the transfer ply 2 is fed through between the pressing cylinder 620 and the second substrate cylinder 622 repeated one or more times. In particular, the transfer ply 2 is applied to the substrate 1 repeated one or more times here and/or the carrier film 31 of the transfer film 3 is peeled off at least partially repeated one or more times and the transfer ply 2 at least partially remains on the substrate 1 with the first adhesion promoter 5 in the first region 11.

[0415] It is thus expedient that the second printing unit 6 comprises a deflection device 21 with one or more deflection stations 22, wherein the transfer ply 2 is fed through between the pressing cylinder 620 and the second substrate cylinder 622 by means of the deflection device 21 repeated one or more times, in particular wherein the transfer ply 2 is applied to the substrate 1 repeated one or more times and/or the carrier film of the transfer film is at least partially peeled off repeated one or more times and the transfer ply at least partially remains on the substrate 1 with the first adhesion promoter 5 in the first region 11.

[0416] The deflection device 21 is preferably arranged behind the peeling-off device 903 in the conveying direction. The carrier film 31 of the transfer film 3 is hereby preferably peeled off of the substrate, wherein the transfer ply 2 remains on the substrate with the first adhesion promoter 5 in the first region 11 and the transfer ply 2 with the carrier film 31 is peeled off of the substrate 1 outside the first region. In particular by then displacing the transfer ply 2 laterally by the deflection device 21, the transfer ply 2 peeled off as well can thus be recycled.

[0417] FIG. 11b shows by way of example a top view of one of the deflection stations 22 shown in FIG. 11a. Here, the deflection device preferably comprises one or more deflection stations 22, which comprise for example two or more further deflecting rollers, of which at least two further deflecting rollers 92 are arranged parallel to each other and are arranged at an angle, in particular not equal to 0°, preferably at an angle of 45°, in particular in relation to the principal direction of movement of the transfer ply 2. The transfer film 3 is preferably unwound from the supply roll 30, pulled in between the pressing cylinder 620 with the proof printing blanket 621 and the second substrate cylinder 622, and then transported with the substrate 1 so far that the first adhesion promoter 5 can be cured, in particular through the transfer film 3. The transfer film 3 is then returned again by means of deflecting rollers 92 and again pulled into the gap, in particular also called printing nip, between the pressing cylinder 620 with the proof printing blanket 621 and the second substrate cylinder 622.

[0418] The transfer ply 2 is thereby applied to the substrate 1 advantageously offset transverse to the conveying direction, in particular in relation to the position of the transfer ply 2 during a previous application of the transfer ply 2 to the substrate 1, during a repeated feed through between the pressing cylinder 620 with the pressing blanket 621 and the second substrate cylinder 622. In other words, a lateral displacement of the transfer ply 2 is preferably carried out hereby.

[0419] If only one transfer film roll 30 is used, it is advantageous to return the transfer film 3 up to twice and to apply the transfer ply 2 from the transfer film 3 to the substrate again. In this case, for example three webs can be covered with transfer ply 2. Further, it is possible for two supply rolls 30 with one transfer film 3 in each case to be used. It is possible in particular for both transfer films 3 of the two supply rolls 30 to be returned once. Thus, four webs can then be decorated with transfer ply 2. In other words, four webs, namely in each case two webs consisting of one of two transfer plies, are preferably applied to the substrate 1 with the first adhesion promoter 5, wherein the two transfer films 3 are each returned once, and thereby, in particular four times, in each case one web of a transfer ply 2 remains on the substrate 1, if at least the carrier film 31 is peeled off and/or deflected.

[0420] This method and this device is particularly advantageous in particular as the transfer film is optimally utilized, in particular if only small regions are decorated, such as for example in the case of the decoration of packaging. Here, it is also possible for the multiple application of the transfer ply to one or more substrates to take place.

[0421] FIG. 12 shows a printing device, with the second printing unit 6 described in FIG. 10 and the first printing unit 4 described in FIG. 7, which are preferably connected to each other via the conveyor element 46. Here, the substrate is preferably conveyed from the first printing unit 4 to the second printing unit 6 via the conveyor element 46.

[0422] It is conceivable here for example that the conveyor element 46 is a conveyor section for conveying the substrate 1, in particular wherein the substrate 1 is processed in the form of rolls. It is furthermore possible for the conveyor element 46 to be a drum, in particular with substrate holders, for conveying the substrate 1, in particular wherein the substrate 1 is processed in the form of sheets. It is also possible for the conveyor element 46 to comprise further structural elements in addition to the drum, for example several drums, guiding elements or other structural devices, which can in particular be driven or not driven.

[0423] Here, the curing device 100 is arranged on the second substrate cylinder 622, wherein the substrate 1 is arranged between the curing device 100 and the second substrate cylinder 622 during the curing of the first adhesion promoter 5.

[0424] FIG. 13 shows the printing device described for FIG. 10, wherein the precuring device 101 for example also described for FIG. 7 is additionally shown.

[0425] It is possible for the curing and/or the precuring to be carried out by means of an irradiation, selected from the group: UV irradiation, in particular by means of high pressure UV mercury vapor lamp, medium pressure UV mercury vapor lamp, low pressure UV mercury vapor lamp, low energy UV and/or UV LED, and/or electron beams (E-Beam) or a combination thereof.

[0426] The curing device 100 and/or the precuring device 101 expediently preferably comprises one or more emitters selected from the group: UV emitters, in particular high pressure UV mercury vapor lamps, medium pressure UV mercury vapor lamps, low pressure UV mercury vapor lamps, low energy UV and/or UV LED, and/or electron beams (E-Beam) or a combination thereof.

[0427] The curing device 100 and/or the precuring device 101 preferably irradiates the substrate 1 and/or the first adhesion promoter 5 with a wavelength in the range of from 250 nm to 410 nm, in particular in the range of from 310 nm to 410 nm, and/or in the range of from 365 nm to 405 nm. It is expediently possible for the substrate 1 and/or the first adhesion promoter 5 to be irradiated with a wavelength in the range of from 250 to 410 nm, in particular in the range of from 310 nm to 410 nm, and/or in the range of from 365 nm to 405 nm, during the curing and/or during the precuring. FIG. 14 shows the printing device described in FIG. 13, except that the deflection device 21, as described in FIGS. 11a and 11b, with the deflection stations 22, and the supply roll 30 and the take-up roll 200 are further shown.

[0428] FIG. 15a and FIG. 15b show the first and second inking unit 71, 81.

[0429] The first inking unit 71 here is connected to the first dampening unit 72, in particular via the at least one first dampening roller 720. The first inking unit 71 has in particular several first inking rollers 710, a first ink duct 713 and an optional doctor blade 714.

[0430] The second inking unit 81 here is connected to the second dampening unit 82, in particular via the at least one second dampening roller 820. The second inking unit 81 has in particular several second inking rollers 810, a second ink duct 813 and an optional doctor blade 814.

[0431] If the second inking unit 81 is in a decoupled state, then it is also possible for the second printing plate 812 not to be arranged on the second plate cylinder 811. If the first inking unit 71 is in a decoupled state, then it is also possible for the first printing plate 712 not to be arranged on the first plate cylinder 711.

[0432] It is herewith possible for the first printing unit 4 to have a first inking unit 71 that can be coupled and decoupled and comprises at least one first inking roller 710 and a first plate cylinder 711 and/or for the second printing unit 6 to have a second inking unit 81 that can be coupled and decoupled and comprises at least one second inking roller 810 and a second plate cylinder 811.

[0433] Further, it is possible for the first printing unit 4 to have a first dampening unit 72 that can be coupled and decoupled and comprises at least one first dampening roller 720 and/or for the second printing unit 6 to have a second dampening unit 82 that can be coupled and decoupled and comprises at least one second dampening roller 820.

[0434] The first dampening unit 72 can preferably be coupled to and decoupled from the transfer cylinder 410 and/or the transfer medium 411 together with the first inking unit 71. The second dampening unit 82 can preferably be coupled to and decoupled from the pressing cylinder 620 and/or a printing blanket, in particular arranged on the pressing cylinder 620, together with the second inking unit 81.

[0435] It is thus conceivable that the first inking unit 71 is formed, in a coupled state of the first inking unit 71, in such a way that the first inking unit 71 transfers a second adhesion promoter to the transfer medium 411. It is thus possible for a second adhesion promoter to be transferred to the transfer medium 411 by means of the first inking unit 71 in a coupled state of the first inking unit 71.

[0436] It is expedient that the second adhesion promoter 52 is transferred from the transfer medium 411 to the substrate 1 with the first adhesion promoter 5. Here, the second adhesion promoter is transferred to the transfer medium and/or the substrate preferably in a second region, which partially overlaps and/or does not overlap the first region. In particular, it is also possible here for the second adhesion promoter to be precured by means of the precuring device 101 and/or to be cured by means of the curing device 100.

[0437] An advantage is in particular achieved in that, depending on the requirements of a product to be produced, the printing device is flexibly settable. For example, the second adhesion promoter can be used when a more absorbent substrate 1 is used and/or the first adhesion promoter 5 can be used in the case of a higher desired gloss of the transfer film 3.

[0438] Further, for example, the advantage is achieved that, because of the above-described effects of the flow properties and deformation properties of an adhesion promoter on the gloss, various gloss effects, in particular with particularly large gloss differences, can be generated in various regions of the applied transfer ply 2. In particular, the second adhesion promoter here is an offset cold film glue and/or has non-Newtonian or almost non-Newtonian behavior. As a result, for example, a particularly appealing optical appearance is generated and/or the protection against forgery is increased.

[0439] It is also conceivable that a printing ink, in particular offset printing ink, is transferred to the substrate 1 by means of the first and/or second inking unit 71, 81.

[0440] Here, in particular, it is possible for a printing ink, in particular offset printing ink, to be transferred to the transfer medium 411 and/or to a printing blanket arranged on the transfer cylinder 410 by means of the first inking unit 71 and to be transferred to the substrate 1 with or without the first adhesion promoter 5.

[0441] It is thus conceivable that, by means of the first printing unit 4, the first adhesion promoter 5 in the form of a flexographic printing glue and/or a flexographic printing ink and the second adhesion promoter in the form of an offset printing glue and/or an offset printing ink is transferred to the substrate 1.

[0442] By means of the second inking unit 81, in particular the second printing plate 812, a printing ink, in particular offset printing ink, is for example transferred to a printing blanket arranged on the pressing cylinder 620, wherein it is also conceivable that the transfer ply 2 here is not applied to the substrate 1 by means of the second printing unit 6.

[0443] It is expedient that one or more of the following steps are carried out, in particular are carried out one or more times in any order: [0444] coupling or decoupling the first inking unit 71 and/or the first dampening unit 72, [0445] coupling or decoupling the second inking unit 81 and/or the second dampening unit 82, [0446] coupling or decoupling the anilox roller 9, in particular together with the chamber doctor blade system 42, and/or the chamber doctor blade system 42.

[0447] Further, for example, the resource efficiency of a printing device, in particular offset printing device, is hereby increased, because the transfer cylinder takes on a dual function.

[0448] FIG. 16 schematically shows a cross section through a transfer film 3 with a carrier film 31, a transfer ply 2 and an optional detachment layer 32.

[0449] The carrier film 31 here is preferably a PET film, preferably with a thickness of 12 μm.

[0450] FIG. 17 shows the transfer film 3 described in FIG. 16, wherein the transfer ply 2 has a protective varnish layer 33, a metallization 34 and an adhesive layer 35, in particular an adhesion-promoter layer 35.

[0451] Here, the carrier film 31 is coated with the detachment layer 32 and the protective varnish 34, and the protective varnish layer is vaporized with metal under high vacuum to form the metallization 34, in particular aluminum. The adhesive layer 35, in particular which establishes a bond with the substrate during the application of the transfer ply 2 to the substrate 1, is then applied to the metallization 35. In addition to the layers shown, in particular, still further layers can be arranged, for example further adhesion-promoter layers, vaporizable layers, barrier layers and/or colored varnish layers.

[0452] The transfer ply 2 is preferably encompassed by the transfer film 3, which has the following layers, and this has, in particular in the specified order in cross section: the carrier film 31, the optional detachment layer 32, the transfer ply 2.

[0453] Further, the transfer ply 2 preferably has one or more of the following layers, in particular in the specified order in cross section: a protective varnish layer 33 on a side of the transfer ply 2 facing the carrier film 31 in the transfer film 3, a replication varnish layer, a colored varnish layer, a vaporizable varnish layer, a metal layer 34, in particular an aluminum layer, an adhesion-promoter layer, a barrier layer, a glue layer 35 on a side of the transfer ply 2 facing away from the carrier film 31 in the transfer film 3. Thus, it is possible for example for the transfer film 3 to be a cold stamping film.

[0454] As shown in FIG. 16 and FIG. 17, the carrier film 31 is detachable from the transfer ply 2.

[0455] For example, a cold transfer film from LEONHARD KURZ Stiftung & Co. KG is used as transfer film, which in particular has a transfer ply with at least one vaporizable varnish layer, a metal layer vapor-deposited thereon and an adhesion-promoter layer. The transfer ply 2 can additionally have still further layers, such as for example a detachment layer, at least one protective layer, barrier layers, ink layers, further glue layers, further adhesion-promoter layers.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

[0456] 1 substrate [0457] 11 first region [0458] 100 curing device [0459] 101 precuring device [0460] 111 curing section [0461] 2 transfer ply [0462] 21 deflection device [0463] 22 deflection stations [0464] 3 transfer film [0465] 31 carrier film [0466] 32 detachment layer [0467] 33 protective varnish layer [0468] 34 metal layer [0469] 35 adhesive layer [0470] 30 supply roll [0471] 300 take-up roll [0472] 31 carrier film [0473] 4 first printing unit [0474] 41 first transfer unit [0475] 410 transfer cylinder [0476] 411 transfer medium [0477] 4111 carrier plate [0478] 4112 outer layer [0479] 412 first substrate cylinder [0480] 42 chamber doctor blade system [0481] 46 conveyor element [0482] 5 first adhesion promoter [0483] 52 second adhesion promoter [0484] 53 third adhesion promoter [0485] 6 second printing unit [0486] 62 second transfer unit [0487] 620 pressing cylinder [0488] 621 pressing blanket [0489] 622 second substrate cylinder [0490] 71 first inking unit [0491] 710 first inking roller [0492] 711 first plate cylinder [0493] 712 first printing plate [0494] 713 first ink duct [0495] 714 doctor blade [0496] 72 first dampening unit [0497] 720 first dampening roller [0498] 721 first water tank [0499] 81 second inking unit [0500] 810 second inking roller [0501] 811 second plate cylinder [0502] 812 second printing plate [0503] 813 second ink duct [0504] 814 doctor blade [0505] 82 second dampening unit [0506] 820 second dampening roller [0507] 821 second water tank [0508] 9 anilox roller [0509] 90 engraving [0510] 901 volume [0511] 902 emptying volume [0512] 911 well [0513] 912 bar [0514] 903 peeling-off device [0515] 91 first deflecting rollers [0516] 92 second deflecting rollers