Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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DOUBLE-LAYERED SHEET SYSTEMS
10
BACKGROUND
This invention relates to providing a system to improve
double-layered flexible magnetic sheets. More particularly, this
invention relates to providing double-layered (including double-
laminated) flexible magnetic sheets that are digitally printable on
both sides. More particularly, this invention relates to providing
flexible magnetic sheets that are customizable for mailing to
consumers as postal-service-compliant magnetic postcards for
direct-mail advertising purposes.
Postcards and other similarly-formatted printed materials
represent a significant portion of direct-mail advertising. Unlike
other forms of direct-mail advertising, printed postcards do not
require opening or unfolding and are therefore successful at
capturing immediate consumer attention. Providing enhanced options
with respect to the types of materials on which such advertising is
printed, mailed, and displayed would benefit many.
OBJECTS AND FEATURES OF THE INVENTION
A primary object and feature of the present invention is to
provide a system overcoming the above-mentioned problem(s).
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to
provide such a system providing a magnetizable sheet that can be
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customized to generate postal-service-compliant postcards. It is a
further object and feature of the present invention to provide a
magnetizable sheet that is sufficiently thin such that it can be
mailed as a postal-service-compliant postcard. It is a further
object and feature of the present invention to provide a
magnetizable sheet that is sufficiently thin such that it can be
fed into a digital press printer. It is a further object and
feature of the present invention to provide a magnetizable sheet
having sufficient rigidity such that it can be fed into digital
press printers with at least adequate print registration. Yet
another object and feature of the present invention is to provide a
magnetizable sheet that, once magnetized, has a magnetic strength
that complies with postal service regulations such that it can be
mailed at least as a United States Postal Service (U.S.P.S.)
postal-service-compliant postcard.
Yet another object and feature of the present invention is to
provide a magnetizable sheet with two printable surfaces that are
receptive to digital press printing. Another object and feature of
the present invention is to provide a magnetizable sheet with two
printable surfaces that allows the customer to print customized
images, colors, and/or text on the printable surfaces for direct-
mail advertising purposes. Yet another object and feature of the
present invention is to provide a magnetizable sheet with one or
two printable foil surfaces that allows the customer to create
customized metallic effects for direct-mail advertising purposes.
A further primary object and feature of the present invention
is to provide such a system that is efficient, inexpensive, and
handy. Other objects and features of this invention will become
apparent with reference to the following descriptions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with a preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a system, relating to providing at least one
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magnetic postcard stock available for customer customization to
generate at least one customized magnetic postcard, comprising: at
least one printable-magnetizable-sheet structured and arranged to
provide at least one magnetizable-sheet receptive to printing on at
least one first printable surface and at least one second printable
surface; wherein such at least one printable-magnetizable-sheet
comprises at least one magnetizable-layer structured and arranged
to provide at least one permanent magnetic field upon magnetization
by at least one magnetic field source; wherein such at least one
magnetizable-layer comprises at least one magnetizable-material
structured and arranged to be magnetized by such at least one
magnetic field source; and wherein such at least one magnetizable-
layer further comprises at least one binder structured and arranged
to bind such at least one magnetizable material in such at least
one magnetizable-layer; at least one first indicia-acceptor
structured and arranged to accept at least one first indicia on
such at least one first printable surface; and at least one second
indicia-acceptor structured and arranged to accept at least one
second indicia on such at least one second printable surface; and
at least one metallic-effect generator structured and arranged to
generate at least one metallic effect on such at least one first
printable surface upon acceptance of such at least one first
indicia; wherein such at least one printable-magnetizable-sheet
comprises at least one thickness suitable for mailing as at least
one postal-service-compliant postcard; and wherein such at least
one printable-magnetizable-sheet provides the at least one magnetic
postcard stock available for customer-customization to generate the
at least one customized magnetic postcard.
Moreover, it provides such a system wherein such at least one
printable-magnetizable-sheet comprises at least one geometry
structured and arranged to permit cutting of such at least one
printable-magnetizable-sheet into at least one width and at least
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one length suitable for mailing as such at least one postal-
service-compliant postcard. Additionally, it provides such a
system further comprising at least one magnetic-field-strength-
attenuator structured and arranged to attenuate the strength of
such at least one permanent magnetic field to at least one magnetic
field strength suitable for mailing as such at least one postal-
service-compliant postcard. Also, it provides such a system
wherein such at least one thickness is between about one hundredth
of an inch and three-tenths of an inch. In addition, it provides
such a system wherein: such at least one first indicia-acceptor is
further structured and arranged to accept such at least one first
indicia from at least one printer; and such at least one second
indicia-acceptor is further structured and arranged to accept such
at least one second indicia from such at least one printer. And,
it provides such a system wherein such at least one printer
comprises at least one digital press printer.
Further, it provides such a system wherein such at least one
metallic-effect-generator comprises at least one metallic foil
layer. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such at
least one metallic-effect-generator is laminated to at least one
first surface of such at least one magnetizable-layer. Moreover,
it provides such a system wherein such at least one first indicia-
acceptor comprises at least one indicia-accepting coating on such
at least one metallic foil layer. Additionally, it provides such a
system wherein such at least one second indicia-acceptor comprises
at least one indicia-accepting coating on at least one second
surface of such at least one magnetizable-layer. Also, it provides
such a system wherein such at least one indicia-accepting coating
comprises at least one ultraviolet-light-curable coating. In
addition, it provides such a system wherein such at least one
indicia-accepting coating is flexographically applied to such at
least one second surface. And, it provides such a system wherein
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such at least one indicia-accepting coating is applied to such at
least one second surface using at least one gravure coating roll.
Further, it provides such a system wherein such at least one
second indicia-acceptor comprises at least one indicia-accepting
layer laminated to at least one second surface of such at least one
magnetizable-layer. Even further, it provides such a system
wherein such at least one indicia-accepting layer comprises paper.
Moreover, it provides such a system wherein such at least one
indicia-accepting layer comprises at least one indicia-accepting
polymer. Additionally, it provides such a system wherein such at
least one indicia-accepting polymer is selected from the group
consisting of polypropylene, polyester, and polyvinyl chloride.
Also, it provides such a system wherein such at least one second
indicia-acceptor comprises at least one indicia-accepting
formulation of such at least one magnetizable-layer.
In addition, it provides such a system wherein such at least
one binder is further structured and arranged to provide
flexibility to such at least one magnetizable-layer. And, it
provides such a system wherein such at least one binder comprises
chlorinated polyethylene. Further, it provides such a system
wherein such at least one magnetizable-layer further comprises at
least one stiffener structured and arranged to stiffen such at
least one magnetizable-layer. Even further, it provides such a
system wherein such at least one stiffener comprises low-density
polyethylene. Moreover, it provides such a system wherein such at
least one stiffener is selected from the group consisting of low-
density polyethylene and at least one biologically-derived
polyester resin. Additionally, it provides such a system wherein
such at least one stiffener further comprises at least one
biologically-derived polyester resin. Also, it provides such a
system wherein such at least one magnetizable-material comprises at
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least one ferrite powder selected from the group consisting of
strontium ferrite and barium ferrite.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a system, relating to providing at least one
magnetic postcard stock available for customer customization to
generate at least one customized magnetic postcard, comprising: at
least one printable-magnetizable-sheet structured and arranged to
provide at least one magnetizable-sheet receptive to printing on at
least one first printable surface and at least one second printable
surface; wherein such at least one printable-magnetizable-sheet
comprises at least one magnetizable-layer structured and arranged
to provide at least one permanent magnetic field upon magnetization
by at least one magnetic field source; wherein such at least one
magnetizable-layer comprises at least one magnetizable-material
structured and arranged to be magnetized by such at least one
magnetic field source; wherein such at least one magnetizable-layer
further comprises at least one binder structured and arranged to
bind such at least one magnetizable material in such at least one
magnetizable-layer; wherein such at least one magnetizable-layer
further comprises at least one stiffener structured and arranged to
stiffen such at least one magnetizable-layer; wherein such at least
one first printable surface comprises at least one first indicia-
acceptor structured and arranged to accept at least one indicia
from at least one digital press printer; wherein such at least one
second printable surface comprises at least one second indicia-
acceptor structured and arranged to accept at least one second
indicia from such at least one digital press printer; wherein such
at least one printable-magnetizable-sheet comprises at least one
thickness suitable for mailing as at least one postal-service-
compliant postcard; and wherein such at least one printable-
magnetizable-sheet provides the at least one magnetic postcard
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= 81784465
stock available for customer-customization to generate the at least
one customized magnetic postcard.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a system, relating to providing at least one
magnetic postcard stock available for customer customization to
generate at least one customized magnetic postcard, comprising: at
least one printable-magnetizable-sheet structured and arranged to
provide at least one magnetizable-sheet receptive to printing on at
least one first printable surface and at least one second printable
surface; wherein such at least one printable-magnetizable-sheet
comprises at least one magnetizable-layer structured and arranged to
provide at least one permanent magnetic field upon magnetization by at
least one magnetic field source; wherein such at least one
magnetizable-layer comprises at least one magnetizable-material
structured and arranged to be magnetized by such at least one magnetic
field source; and wherein such at least one magnetizable-layer further
comprises at least one binder structured and arranged to bind such at
least one magnetizable material in such at least one magnetizable-
layer; at least one first indicia-acceptor structured and arranged to
accept at least one first indicia on such at least one first printable
surface; and at least one second indicia-acceptor structured and
arranged to accept at least one second indicia on such at least one
second printable surface; wherein such at least one first indicia-
acceptor comprises at least one ultraviolet-light-curable coating on
such at least one first printable surface; wherein such at least one
printable-magnetizable-sheet comprises at least one thickness suitable
for mailing as at least one postal-service-compliant postcard; and
wherein such at least one printable-magnetizable-sheet, provides the
at least one magnetic postcard stock available for customer-
customization to generate the at least one customized magnetic
postcard wherein said at least one magnetizable-layer further
comprises at least one stiffener structured and arranged to stiffen
said at least one magnetizable-layer.
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In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a system, relating to providing at least one
magnetic postcard stock available for customer customization to
generate at least one customized magnetic postcard, comprising:
printable-magnetizable-sheet means for providing at least one
magnetizable-sheet receptive to printing on at least one first
printable surface and at least one second printable surface;
wherein such printable-magnetizable-sheet means comprises
magnetizable-layer means for providing at least one permanent
magnetic field upon magnetization by at least one magnetic field
source; wherein such magnetizable-layer means comprises
magnetizable-material means for being magnetized by such at least
one magnetic field source; and wherein such magnetizable-layer
means further comprises binder means for binding such magnetizable-
material means in such magnetizable-layer means; first indicia-
acceptor means for accepting at least one first indicia on such at
least one first printable surface; second indicia-acceptor means
for accepting at least one second indicia on such at least one
second printable surface; and metallic-effect generator means for
generating at least one metallic effect on such at least one first
printable surface upon acceptance of such at least one first
indicia; wherein such printable-magnetizable-sheet means comprises
at least one thickness suitable for mailing as at least one postal-
service-compliant postcard; and wherein such printable-
magnetizable-sheet means provides the at least one magnetic
postcard stock available for customer-customization to generate the
at least one customized magnetic postcard.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a method, relating to manufacturing at least one
magnetic postcard stock available for customer customization to
generate at least one customized magnetic postcard, comprising the
steps of: mixing at least one magnetizable-material, at least one
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. 81784465
binder, and at least one stiffener to form at least one magnetizable-
mixture; shaping such at least one magnetizable-mixture into at least
one sheet structure using at least one shaping technique selected from
the group consisting of at least one extrusion method and at least one
calendering method; applying at least one first printable layer to at
least one first surface of such at least one magnetizable-sheet using
at least one application method selected from the group consisting of
lamination, flexographic coating, gravure coating, and spraying; and
applying at least one second printable layer to at least one second
surface of such at least one magnetizable-sheet using at least one
application method selected from the group consisting of lamination,
flexographic coating, gravure coating, and spraying; wherein such step
of applying such at least one first printable layer and such step of
applying such at least one second printable layer generates at least
one printable-magnetizable-sheet receptive to printing on such at
least one first printable layer and such at least one second printable
layer; distributing such at least one printable-magnetizable-sheet to
at least one customer; wherein such step of distributing such at least
one printable-magnetic-sheet provides such at least one customer with
the at least one magnetic postcard stock available for customer-
customization to generate the at least one customized magnetic
postcard, wherein said at least one magnetizable-layer further
comprises at least one stiffener structured and arranged to stiffen
said at least one magnetizable-layer. In addition, it provides such a
method further comprising the steps of: providing such at least one
customer the option of printing at least one first indicia on such at
least one first printable layer using at least one digital press
printer; providing such at least one customer the option of printing
at least one second indicia on such at least one second printable
layer using such at least one digital press printer; and providing
such at least one customer the option of cutting such at least one
printable-magnetic-sheet into at least
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one length and at least one width acceptable for mailing as at
least one postal-service-compliant postcard.
And, it provides such a system further comprising the step of
cutting such at least one printable-magnetizable-sheet into at
least one shape suitable for distribution to such at least one
customer prior to the step of distributing such at least one
printable-magnetizable-sheet to such at least one customer.
Further, it provides such a system further comprising the step of
permanently magnetizing such at least one printable-magnetizable-
sheet by exposing such at least one printable-magnetizable-sheet to
at least one magnetic-field-source.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a system, relating to providing at least one
magnetic postcard stock available for customer customization to
generate at least one customized magnetic postcard, comprising: at
least one printable-magnetizable-sheet structured and arranged to
provide at least one magnetizable-sheet receptive to printing on at
least one first printable surface and at least one second printable
surface; wherein such at least one printable-magnetizable-sheet
comprises at least one magnetizable-layer structured and arranged
to provide at least one permanent magnetic field upon magnetization
by at least one magnetic field source; wherein such at least one
magnetizable-layer comprises at least one magnetizable-material
structured and arranged to be magnetized by such at least one
magnetic field source; wherein such at least one magnetizable-
material comprises at least one ferrite powder selected from the
group consisting of strontium ferrite and barium ferrite; wherein
such at least one magnetizable-layer further comprises at least one
binder structured and arranged to bind such at least one
magnetizable material in such at least one magnetizable-layer;
wherein such at least one binder comprises chlorinated
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polyethylene; wherein such at least one magnetizable-layer further
comprises at least one stiffener structured and arranged to stiffen
such at least one magnetizable-layer; and wherein such at least one
stiffener is selected from the group consisting of low-density
polyethylene, at least one biologically-derived polyester resin,
and at least one mixture of such low-density polyethylene and such
at least one biologically-derived polyester resin; at least one
first indicia-acceptor structured and arranged to accept at least
one first indicia on such at least one first printable surface; and
at least one second indicia-acceptor structured and arranged to
accept at least one second indicia on such at least one second
printable surface; wherein such at least one first indicia-acceptor
is further structured and arranged to accept such at least one
first indicia from at least one digital press printer; and wherein
such at least one second indicia-acceptor is further structured and
arranged to accept such at least one second indicia from such at
least one digital press printer; at least one metallic-effect
generator structured and arranged to generate at least one metallic
effect on such at least one first printable surface upon acceptance
of such at least one indicia; wherein such at least one metallic-
effect-generator comprises at least one metallic foil layer;
wherein such at least one first indicia-acceptor comprises at least
one indicia-accepting coating on such at least one metallic foil
layer; wherein such at least one metallic-effect-generator is
laminated to at least one first surface of such at least one
magnetizable-layer; wherein such at least one printable-
magnetizable-sheet comprises at least one thickness suitable for
mailing as at least one postal-service-compliant postcard; wherein
such at least one thickness is between about one hundredth of an
inch and about three-tenths of an inch; wherein such at least one
printable-magnetizable-sheet comprises at least one geometry
structured and arranged to permit cutting of such at least one
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printable-magnetizable-sheet into at least one length and at least
one width suitable for mailing as at least one postal-service-
compliant postcard; and wherein such at least one printable-
magnetizable-sheet provides the at least one magnetic postcard
production intermediate available for customer-customization to
generate the at least one customized magnetic postcard. In
addition, this invention provides each and every novel feature,
element, combination, step and/or method disclosed by this patent
application.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 shows a perspective view, illustrating a double-
printable magnetizable sheet of double-printable magnetic sheet
systems, according to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention.
FIG. 2 shows a sectional view, through the section 2-2 of FIG.
1, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1.
FIG. 3 shows a perspective view, illustrating a customized
magnetic postcard generated from the double-printable magnetizable
sheet, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1.
FIG. 4 shows a side view, illustrating a double-printable
magnetizable sheet comprising an indicia-accepting foil layer,
according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 5 shows a diagrammatic view, illustrating the steps
involved in the manufacture, distribution, and customization of the
double printable magnetizable sheet, according to the preferred
embodiment of FIG. 1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE BEST MODES
AND PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
FIG. 1 shows a perspective view, illustrating double-printable
magnetizable sheet 102 of double-printable magnetic sheet systems
100, according to the preferred embodiment of the present
invention. FIG. 2 shows a sectional view, through the section 2-2
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of FIG. 1, according the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1. FIG. 3
shows a perspective view, illustrating at least one customized
magnetic postcard 112 generated from double-printable magnetizable
sheet 102, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1.
Double-printable magnetizable sheet 102 (at least embodying herein
at least one printable-magnetizable-sheet structured and arranged
to provide at least one magnetizable-sheet receptive to printing on
at least one first printable surface and at least one second
printable surface; and, at least embodying herein printable-
magnetizable-sheet means for providing at least one magnetizable-
sheet receptive to printing on at least one first printable surface
and at least one second printable surface) preferably comprises a
magnetizable sheet that is printable on both surfaces, as shown.
Double-printable magnetizable sheet 102 preferably comprises a
magnetizable sheet stock for production of customized magnetic
postcards 112, as shown (see further details below). Double-
printable magnetizable sheet 102 preferably is customized by at
least one customer to generate customized magnetic postcard 112
(see details below). Customized magnetic postcard 112 preferably
is employed by the customer for direct-mail advertising purposes.
Upon reading this specification, those with ordinary skill in the
art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as design preference, user preference,
cost, changing needs, etc., other types of postcards may suffice.
Double-printable magnetizable sheet 102 preferably comprises a
sheet thickness A that preferably meets United States Postal
Service (USPS) regulations for mailing as a postcard; see details
below (this arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such at
least one printable-magnetizable-sheet comprises at least one
thickness suitable for mailing as at least one postal-service-
compliant postcard; and, this arrangement at least herein embodying
wherein such printable-magnetizable-sheet means comprises at least
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one thickness suitable for mailing as at least one postal-service-
compliant postcard). Further, thickness A of double-printable
magnetizable sheet 102 preferably is suitable for feeding into at
least one printer, preferably at least one digital printer,
preferably at least one modern digital press printer such as, for
example, those digital press printers sold under the trademarks HP
Indigo, Kodak Nexpress, and Xerox() Igen printers (see details
below). Sheet thickness A preferably is between about one
hundredth of an inch and about three-tenths of an inch. Upon
reading this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art
will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as design preference, manufacturer
preference, user preference, cost, changing needs, changing postal
service regulations, types of printers used, etc., other sheet
thicknesses may suffice.
Double-printable magnetizable sheet 102 preferably comprises
sufficient rigidity in order to preferably ensure at least adequate
print registration with digital press printers (see further details
below). Upon reading this specification, those with ordinary skill
in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate
circumstances, considering such issues as design preference,
manufacturer preference, user preference, cost, changing needs,
types of printers used, etc., flexible sheets may suffice.
Double-printable magnetizable sheet 102 preferably comprises
at least one magnetizable layer 104, as shown. Upon magnetization
with a magnetic field source, magnetizable layer 104 (at least
herein embodying wherein such at least one printable-magnetizable-
sheet comprises at least one magnetizable-layer structured and
arranged to provide at least one permanent magnetic field upon
magnetization by at least one magnetic field source; and, at least
herein embodying wherein such printable-magnetizable-sheet means
comprises magnetizable-layer means for providing at least one
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permanent magnetic field upon magnetization by at least one
magnetic field source) preferably produces a permanent magnetic
field and preferably provides double-printable magnetizable sheet
102 with magnetic properties.
Double-printable magnetizable sheet 102 preferably further
comprises at least one printable surface 106, preferably two
printable surfaces 106, preferably at least one first printable
surface 107 and at least one second printable surface 109, as best
shown in FIG. 2. Printable surfaces 106 preferably comprise
surfaces receptive to printing, preferably digital printing,
preferably digital press printing (see details below).
Accordingly, printable surfaces 106 preferably are receptive to
standard toners and/or standard ink lines used for modern digital
presses such as, for example, those toners and/or ink lines used
for HP Indigo, Kodak NexpressiO, and Xerox IgenTM printers. Upon
reading this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art
will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as design preference, manufacturer
preference, user preference, cost, changing needs, future
technologies, etc., surfaces receptive to other types of printing,
such as, for example, surfaces receptive to offset printing,
surfaces receptive to laser printing, surfaces receptive to inkjet
printing, surfaces receptive to writing, etc., may suffice.
Printable surfaces 106 preferably further function to
attenuate the magnetic field strength of double-printable
magnetizable sheet 102 to a magnetic field strength that complies
with USPS regulations for mailing as a postcard (this arrangement
at least embodying herein at least one magnetic-field-strength-
attenuator structured and arranged to attenuate the strength of
such at least one permanent magnetic field to at least one magnetic
field strength suitable for mailing as such at least one postal-
service-compliant postcard).
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In a preferred use of double-printable magnetizable sheet 102,
a customer preferably prints at least one color, at least one
image, at least one metallic effect, and/or at least one text on
one or both printable surfaces 106 in order to preferably customize
the display on customized magnetic postcard 112, as shown (see
further details below). The customer preferably customizes the
color, image, metallic effect, and/or text displayed on one or both
printable surfaces 106 of double-printable magnetizable sheet 102
for direct-mail advertising purposes (see details below). Printing
on double-printable magnetizable sheet 102 preferably is achieved
using at least one printer, preferably at least one digital
printer, preferably at least one digital press printer. Upon
reading this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art
will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as design preference, user preferences,
marketing preferences, cost, structural requirements, available
materials, technological advances, etc., other indicia arrangements
such as, for example, symbols, logos, numbers, photographs, etc.,
may suffice.
Magnetizable layer 104 preferably comprises at least one
magnetizable material capable of being magnetized by exposure to a
magnetic field source, preferably at least one ferrite powder,
preferably at least one strontium ferrite powder (SrFe12019),
alternately preferably at least one barium ferrite powder
(BaFe12019). The above arrangement at least herein embodies wherein
such at least one magnetizable-layer comprises at least one
magnetizable-material structured and arranged to be magnetized by
such at least one magnetic field source; and, this arrangement at
least herein embodies wherein such magnetizable-layer means
comprises magnetizable-material means for being magnetized by such
at least one magnetic field source. The above-described ferrite
powder preferably is obtained from Hoosier Magnetics, Inc. located
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in Ogdensburg, New York, product number HM 410
(http://www.hoosiermagneticsinc.com/index.html). Alternately
preferably, the above-described ferrite powder is obtained in
recycled powder form from TDK Corporation (http://www.tdk.com/).
Upon reading this specification, those with ordinary skill in the
art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as design preference, manufacturer
preference, cost, changing needs, future technologies, etc., other
magnetizable materials such as, for example, magnetic materials
containing nickel, magnetic materials containing cobalt, magnetic
materials containing gadolinium, other ferromagnetic materials,
etc., may suffice.
Magnetic layer 104 preferably further comprises at least one
polymeric binder that preferably functions to bind such
magnetizable material in magnetizable layer 104 (this arrangement
at least herein embodying wherein such at least one magnetizable-
layer further comprises at least one binder structured and arranged
to bind such at least one magnetizable material in such at least
one magnetizable-layer; and, this arrangement at least herein
embodying wherein such magnetizable-layer means further comprises
binder means for binding such magnetizable-material means in such
magnetizable-layer means). Moreover, such polymeric binder
preferably provides flexible properties to double-printable
magnetizable sheet 102 (this arrangement at least herein embodying
wherein such at least one binder is further structured and arranged
to provide flexibility to such at least one magnetizable-layer).
Such polymeric binder preferably comprises at least one flexible
thermoplastic polymer, preferably at least one chlorinated
polyethylene (CPE) elastomer. Such chlorinated polyethylene (CPE)
elastomer preferably is obtained from Alternative Rubber and
Plastics, Inc. located in Amherst, New York, product number CM 301
(http://www.altrubber.com/). Upon reading this specification,
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those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as cost,
changing needs, manufacturer preference, design preference, future
technologies, etc., other polymeric binder materials, such as, for
example, flexible resins, chlorosulfonated polyethylene rubber,
polyisobutylene, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer,
elastomeric binders, polypropylene elastomers, ethylene-octene
copolymers, etc., may suffice.
Magnetizable layer 104 preferably further comprises at least
one stiff binder that preferably functions to maintain adequate
rigidity in magnetizable layer 104 such that double-printable
magnetizable sheet 102 can be fed into digital press printers with
at least adequate print registration (this arrangement at least
herein embodying wherein such at least one magnetizable-layer
further comprises at least one stiffener structured and arranged to
stiffen such at least one magnetizable-layer). Such stiff binder
preferably comprises at least one polyethylene polymer, preferably
at least one low-density polyethylene (LDPE) polymer. Alternately
preferably, such stiff binder comprises at least one surfactant,
preferably at least one biologically-derived polyester resin
surfactant. Such biologically-derived polyester resin surfactant
preferably is sold under the trademark BIOREZ supplied from
Advanced Image Resources, LLC located in Alpharetta, Georgia
(http://www.air-toner.com/). Alternatively preferably, such stiff
binder comprises at least one mixture of at least one low-density
polyethylene polymer and at least one biologically-derived
polyester resin surfactant. Upon reading this specification, those
skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate
circumstances, considering such issues as cost, changing needs,
manufacturer preference, design preference, future technologies,
etc., other stiffening materials, such as, for example, linear low-
density polyethylene, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer, other
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stiffening polymeric binders, stiffening plastics, rubbers,
polymeric resins, addition of additional surfactants, etc., may
suffice. Upon reading this specification, those skilled in the art
will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as cost, changing needs, manufacturer
preference, design preference, future technologies, etc., other
surfactants, such as, for example, stearic acid, calcium stearate,
tackifying resins, rosin esters, abietic acid esters, terpene
phenolic resins, etc., may suffice.
Double-printable magnetizable sheet 102 preferably comprises
first printable surface 107 and second printable surface 109, as
shown. First printable surface 107 and second printable surface
109 preferably each comprise at least one type of printable surface
106 listed in Table 1 below. First printable surface 107
preferably comprises at least one indicia-accepting foil layer 202
(see FIG. 4 and further details below), alternatively preferably at
least one indicia-accepting coating, alternately preferably at
least one indicia-accepting laminated layer, alternately preferably
at least one indicia-accepting formulation of magnetic layer
surface, as shown in Table 1 (this arrangement at least embodying
herein at least one first indicia-acceptor structured and arranged
to accept at least one first indicia on such at least one first
printable surface; and, this arrangement at least embodying herein
first indicia-acceptor means for accepting at least one first
indicia on such at least one first printable surface; and, this
arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such at least one
first printable surface comprises at least one first indicia-
acceptor structured and arranged to accept at least one indicia
from at least one digital press printer). Likewise, second
printable surface 109 preferably comprises at least one indicia-
accepting foil layer 202 (see FIG. 4 and further details below),
alternatively preferably at least one indicia-accepting coating,
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alternately preferably indicia-accepting laminated layer,
alternately preferably at least one indicia-accepting formulation
of magnetic layer surface, as shown in Table I (this arrangement at
least embodying herein at least one second indicia-acceptor
structured and arranged to accept at least one second indicia on
such at least one second printable surface; and, this arrangement
at least embodying herein second indicia-acceptor means for
accepting at least one second indicia on such at least one second
printable surface; and, this arrangement at least herein embodying
wherein such at least one second printable surface comprises at
least one second indicia-acceptor structured and arranged to accept
at least one second indicia from such at least one digital press
printer). Accordingly, multiple combinations of printable surfaces
106 preferably are possible for double-printable magnetizable sheet
102. Upon reading this specification, those with ordinary skill in
the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as design preference, manufacturer
preference, user preference, cost, changing needs, future
technologies, etc., other types of printable surfaces, such as, for
example, indicia-accepting textile surfaces, indicia-accepting
magnetic strips, etc., may suffice.
Table 1: Types of Printable Surfaces 106.
Indicia-accepting foil layer 202
Indicia-accepting coating 232
Indicia-accepting laminated layer
Indicia-accepting formulation of magnetic layer surface
FIG. 4 shows a side view, illustrating double-printable
magnetizable sheet 102 comprising at least one indicia-accepting
foil layer 202, according to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention. Indicia-accepting foil layer 202 (at least embodying
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herein at least one metallic-effect generator structured and
arranged to generate at least one metallic effect on such at least
one first printable surface upon acceptance of such at least one
first indicia; and, at least embodying herein metallic-effect
generator means for generating at least one metallic effect on such
at least one first printable surface upon acceptance of such at
least one first indicia) preferably provides at least one customer
with the ability to create customized metallic effects on at least
one printable surface 106 of double-printable magnetizable sheet
102. Such customized metallic effects preferably are generated on
indicia-accepting foil layer 202 by printing on indicia-accepting
foil layer 202 using at least one digital printer, preferably at
least one digital press printer. Upon reading this specification,
those with ordinary skill in the art will now appreciate that,
under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as design
preference, manufacturer preference, user preference, cost,
changing needs, future technologies, etc., other types of printers,
such as, for example, offset printers, laser printers, inkjet
printers, etc., may suffice.
Such customized metallic effects preferably comprise
customized metallic finishes, brass finishes, aluminum-foil
finishes, mirror finishes, chrome finishes, custom-colored metallic
finishes, and faux metal finishes. Upon reading this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as design preference, manufacturer preference, user
preference, cost, changing needs, future technologies, etc., other
types of effects, such as, for example, holographic effects, other
metallic effects, eco-friendly metallic finishes, etc., may
suffice.
Indicia-accepting foil layer 202 preferably comprises at least
one metallic foil layer 222 (at least herein embodying wherein such
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at least one metallic-effect-generator comprises at least one
metallic foil layer), as shown in FIG. 4. Metallic foil layer 222
preferably is responsible for producing customized metallic effects
and preferably comprises at least one aluminum foil layer,
alternately preferably at least one copper foil layer, alternately
preferably at least one metal alloy foil layer. Upon reading this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as design preference, manufacturer preference, user
preference, cost, changing needs, future technologies, etc., other
metallic foil materials, such as, for example, tin foil, gold foil,
magnetic foils, foil paper, etc., may suffice.
Indicia-accepting foil layer 202 preferably further comprises
at least one bonding layer 212, as shown in FIG. 4. Bonding layer
212 preferably is responsible for joining indicia-accepting foil
layer 202 to magnetizable layer 104 by lamination (this arrangement
at least herein embodying wherein such at least one metallic-
effect-generator is laminated to at least one first surface of such
at least one magnetizable-layer). Indicia-accepting foil layer 202
preferably is laminated to magnetizable layer surface 105
preferably using at least one adhesive, preferably at least one
urethane-based adhesive, alternately preferably at least one
rubber-based adhesive. Upon reading this specification, those with
ordinary skill in the art will now appreciate that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as design
preference, manufacturer preference, user preference, cost,
changing needs, future technologies, etc., other joining
arrangements, such as, for example, gluing, pasting, lamination
using other types of adhesives, hot-melt bonding, heat sealing,
Indicia-accepting foil layer 202 preferably further comprises
at least one indicia-accepting coating 232 on metallic foil layer
222, as shown in FIG. 4. Indicia-accepting coating 232 (at least
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herein embodying wherein such at least one first indicia-acceptor
comprises at least one indicia-accepting coating on such at least
one metallic foil layer) preferably comprises at least one indicia-
accepting material that preferably is receptive to inks and/or
toners used for digital printers, preferably digital press
printers. Upon reading this specification, those with ordinary
skill in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate
circumstances, considering such issues as design preference,
manufacturer preference, user preference, cost, changing needs,
future technologies, etc., other indicia-accepting arrangements,
such as, for example, coatings receptive to inkjet printing inks,
coatings receptive to offset printing inks, coatings receptive to
screen printing inks, indicia-accepting foils, coatings receptive
to writing, etc., may suffice.
Indicia-accepting foil layer 202 preferably is obtained from
Hazen Paper Company (240 South Water St. Holyoke, MA 01040).
Laminations to magnetizable layer surface 105 preferably are
performed at the site of manufacture of double-printable
magnetizable sheet 102 (see further details below). Upon reading
this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as design preference, manufacturer preference, user
preference, cost, changing needs, etc., other lamination
arrangements, such as, for example, laminations at the foil
production site, laminations performed by the customer, etc., may
suffice.
Such indicia-accepting laminated layer (see Table 1)
preferably comprises at least one indicia-accepting layer
preferably joined to magnetizable layer surface 105 (see FIG. 1).
Such indicia-accepting laminated layer preferably is joined to
magnetizable layer surface 105 by lamination using at least one
adhesive, preferably at least one urethane-based adhesive,
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alternately preferably at least one rubber-based adhesive. This
arrangement at least herein embodies wherein such at least one
second indicia-acceptor comprises at least one indicia-accepting
layer laminated to at least one second surface of such at least one
magnetizable-layer. Upon reading this specification, those with
ordinary skill in the art will now appreciate that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as design
preference, manufacturer preference, user preference, cost,
changing needs, future technologies, etc., other joining
arrangements, such as, for example, gluing, hot-melt bonding,
laminations using other types of adhesives, other bonding
arrangements, etc., may suffice.
Such indicia-accepting laminated layer preferably comprises at
least one material layer receptive to inks and/or toners used in
digital printers, preferably digital press printers. Upon reading
this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as design preference, manufacturer preference, user
preference, cost, changing needs, future technologies, etc., other
indicia-accepting arrangements, such as, for example, material
layers receptive to inkjet printing inks, material layers receptive
to offset printing inks, material layers receptive to screen
printing inks, material layers receptive to writing, etc., may
suffice.
Such indicia-accepting laminated layer preferably comprises
paper, alternately preferably at least one indicia-accepting
polymer. Such at least one indicia-accepting polymer preferably
comprises polypropylene, alternately preferably polyvinyl chloride,
alternately preferably polyester. Upon reading this specification,
those with ordinary skill in the art will now appreciate that,
under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as design
preference, manufacturer preference, user preference, cost,
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changing needs, future technologies, etc., other indicia-acceptors,
such as, for example, indicia-accepting polymer mixtures, polymers
receptive to offset printing inks, polymers receptive to screen
printing inks, polymers receptive to laser printing inks, polymers
receptive to inkjet printing inks, etc., may suffice.
Such indicia-accepting coating (see Table 1) preferably
comprises at least one coating that preferably is receptive to inks
and/or toners used for digital printers, preferably digital press
printers (this arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such
at least one second indicia-acceptor comprises at least one
indicia-accepting coating on at least one second surface of such at
least one magnetizable-layer). Upon reading this specification,
those with ordinary skill in the art will now appreciate that,
under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as design
preference, manufacturer preference, user preference, cost,
changing needs, future technologies, etc., other indicia-accepting
arrangements, such as, for example, coatings receptive to inkjet
printing inks, coatings receptive to offset printing inks, coatings
receptive to screen printing inks, coatings receptive to laser
printing inks, coatings receptive to writing, etc., may suffice.
Such indicia-accepting coating preferably is substantially
white, preferably opaque white. Such indicia-accepting coating
preferably comprises an opacity, whiteness, and gloss at least
similar to or better than standard lamination paper. Upon reading
this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as design preference, manufacturer preference, user
preference, cost, changing needs, future technologies, etc., other
indicia-accepting coating arrangements, such as, for example,
different colors, different opacities, etc., may suffice.
Such indicia-accepting coating preferably lays flat when
exposed to temperature and humidity extremes and preferably resists
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scuffing and abrasion. Moreover, such indicia-accepting coating
preferably does not delaminate when exposed to normal processing,
handling, freight, or end use conditions. Furthermore, such
indicia-accepting coating preferably does not readily discolor or
yellow when exposed UV-light under typical indoor conditions.
Moreover, such indicia-accepting coating preferably provides a
clean cut when cut with a guillotine-type shear or steel rule die.
Moreover, such indicia-accepting coating preferably comprises a low
chemical toxicity and a low heavy metal content. Upon reading this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as design preference, manufacturer preference, user
preference, cost, changing needs, future technologies, etc., other
characteristics for indicia-accepting coatings may suffice.
Such indicia-accepting coating preferably comprises at least
one UV-curable coating, alternately preferably at least one water-
based coating. UV-curable coatings provide the advantage of being
smooth and shiny. Moreover, UV-curable coatings provide the
advantage of increasing production speeds. A preferred UV-curable
coating suitable for use as indicia-accepting coating preferably
comprises Pharmaflex Avalanche Multi-Purpose UV Curable White
Printing Ink (product number RPL900704) supplied from Actega
located in Wesel, Germany (www.actega.com). Upon reading this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as design preference, manufacturer preference, user
preference, cost, changing needs, future technologies, etc., other
types of indicia-accepting coatings, such as, for example, indicia-
accepting hot-melt coatings, non-water based coatings, UV-curable
and water-based coatings, etc., may suffice.
Such indicia-accepting coating preferably is applied to
magnetic layer surface 105 by spraying, alternately preferably by
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fluid application, alternately preferably by at least one
flexographic printing process, alternately preferably by at least
one gravure coating roll. Upon reading this specification, those
with ordinary skill in the art will now appreciate that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as design
preference, manufacturer preference, user preference, cost,
changing needs, future technologies, etc., other application
arrangements, such as, for example, slot-die roller applications,
rotary screen applications, other coating methods, etc., may
suffice.
Such indicia-accepting formulation of magnetic layer surface
(see Table 1) preferably comprises a formulation of magnetizable
layer 104 that is receptive to digital printing, preferably digital
press printing. Alternately preferably, such indicia-accepting
formulation of magnetic layer surface preferably comprises a
formulation of magnetizable layer surface 105 that preferably is
receptive to digital printing, preferably digital press printing.
Upon reading this specification, those with ordinary skill in the
art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as design preference, manufacturer
preference, user preference, cost, changing needs, future
technologies, etc., other indicia-accepting formulation
arrangements, such as, for example, formulations receptive to
inkjet printing inks, formulations receptive to laser printing
inks, formulations receptive to offset printing inks, formulations
receptive to screen printing inks, formulations receptive to
writing, etc., may suffice.
Such indicia-accepting formulation of magnetic layer surface
preferably allows printing directly on magnetizable layer surface
105. Such indicia-accepting formulation of magnetic layer surface
preferably comprises at least one indicia-accepting polymer
incorporated within the chemical formulation of magnetizable layer
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104, alternately preferably within the chemical formulation of
magnetizable layer surface 105. Suitable indicia-accepting
polymers preferably comprise polypropylene, alternately preferably
polyvinyl chloride, alternately preferably polyester. Upon reading
this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as design preference, manufacturer preference, user
preference, cost, changing needs, future technologies, etc., other
indicia-acceptors, such as, for example, indicia-accepting polymer
mixtures, other polymers receptive to digital press printing and/or
toners, etc., may suffice.
FIG. 5 shows a diagrammatic view, illustrating the steps
involved in the manufacture, distribution, and customization of
double-printable magnetizable sheets 102, according to the
preferred embodiment of the present invention. According to step
Mix Magnetizable Material with Polymeric Binder 301 (at least
embodying herein mixing at least one magnetizable-material, at
least one binder, and at least one stiffener to form at least one
magnetizable-mixture), at least one of the above-described
magnetizable materials (preferably at least one ferrite powder)
preferably is mixed with at least one polymeric binder (preferably
CPE) and at least one of the above-described stiff binders,
preferably in any order. Step Mix Magnetizable Material with
Polymeric Binder 301 preferably is performed at elevated
temperature, preferably between about 200 F and about 300 F. Upon
reading this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art
will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as manufacturer preference, cost, changing
needs, future technologies, etc., other mixing procedures, such as,
for example, mixing at different temperatures, mixing at defined
pressures, mixing magnetic materials and binders in a specific
order, etc., may suffice.
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Following step Mix Magnetizable Material with Polymeric Binder
301, the above-described mixture of magnetizable material,
polymeric binder, and stiff binder(s) preferably is shaped into a
sheet structure according to step Sheet Shaping 303, as shown.
Step Sheet Shaping 303 (at least embodying herein shaping such at
least one magnetizable-mixture into at least one sheet structure
using at least one shaping technique selected from the group
consisting of at least one extrusion method and at least one
calendering method) preferably is performed using at least one
extrusion method, alternately preferably by at least one
calendering method. Upon reading this specification, those with
ordinary skill in the art will now appreciate that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as manufacturer
preference, cost, changing needs, future technologies, etc., other
sheet shaping methods may suffice.
Following step Sheet Shaping 303, printable surfaces 106
preferably are applied to one or both magnetizable layer surfaces
105 according to step Application of Printable Surfaces 305, as
shown. According to step Application of Printable Surfaces 305,
first printable surfaces 107 and second printable surface 109
preferably are joined to magnetizable layer surfaces 105 by
lamination, alternately preferably by at least one coating method,
preferably at least one flexographic printing process, alternately
preferably by at least one gravure coating roll, alternately
preferably by spray coating, alternately preferably by fluid
application (this arrangement at least embodying herein applying at
least one first printable layer to at least one first surface of
such at least one magnetizable-sheet using at least one application
method selected from the group consisting of lamination,
flexographic coating, gravure coating, and spraying; and, this
arrangement at least embodying herein applying at least one second
printable layer to at least one second surface of such at least one
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magnetizable-sheet using at least one application method selected
from the group consisting of lamination, flexographic coating,
gravure coating, and spraying). Step Application of Printable
Surfaces 305 preferably generates double-printable magnetizable
sheet 102, as shown in FIG. 1 (this arrangement at least herein
embodying wherein such step of applying such at least one first
printable layer and such step of applying such at least one second
printable layer generates at least one printable-magnetizable-sheet
receptive to printing on such at least one first printable layer
and such at least one second printable layer). Upon reading this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as design preference, manufacturer preference, user
preference, cost, changing needs, future technologies, etc., other
arrangements for applying printable surfaces, such as, for example,
slot-die roller applications, other roller applications, gluing,
hot-melt bonding, etc., may suffice.
Following step Application of Printable Surfaces 305, double-
printable magnetizable sheets 102 preferably are cut into sheet
sizes suitable for distributing to customers according to step Cut
into Distributable Sheets 307 (at least embodying herein the step
of cutting such at least one printable-magnetizable-sheet into at
least one shape suitable for distribution to such at least one
customer prior to the step of distributing such at least one
printable-magnetizable-sheet to such at least one customer), as
shown. According to step Cut into Distributable Sheets 307,
double-printable magnetizable sheet 102 preferably is cut into
twelve-inch by eighteen-inch inch sheets preferably using a
guillotine-type cutting tool. Upon reading this specification,
those with ordinary skill in the art will now appreciate that,
under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as design
preference, manufacturer preference, user preference, cost,
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changing needs, future technologies, etc., other sheet distribution
arrangements, such as, for example, other sheet sizes, distributing
to customers as rolled-up sheets, etc., may suffice.
Following step Application of Printable Surfaces 305, double-
printable magnetizable sheets 102 preferably are permanently
magnetized by exposure to at least one magnetic field according to
step Magnetize Sheet 315 (at least embodying herein the step of
permanently magnetizing such at least one printable-magnetizable-
sheet by exposing such at least one printable-magnetizable-sheet to
at least one magnetic-field-source), as shown. Upon reading this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as design preference, manufacturer preference, user
preference, cost, changing needs, future technologies, etc., other
sheet magnetizing arrangements, such as, for example, magnetizing
before cutting into distributable sheets, magnetizing before
application of printable surfaces, magnetization performed by the
customer, magnetization performed after printing on printable
surfaces, etc., may suffice.
Following step Magnetize Sheet 315, double-printable
magnetizable sheets 102 preferably are distributed to customers
according to step Customer Distribution 309 (at least embodying
herein distributing such at least one printable-magnetizable-sheet
to at least one customer), as shown. Following step Customer
Distribution 309, double-printable magnetizable sheets 102
preferably are further customized as desired by the customer
according to step Cut into Postcard 311 and step Print on Surfaces
313, respectively, as shown in FIG. 4. Step Cut into Postcard 311
and step Print on Surfaces 313 preferably are performed in any
order, as shown.
In step Cut into Postcard 311 (at least embodying herein
providing such at least one customer the option of cutting such at
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least one printable-magnetic-sheet into at least one length and at
least one width acceptable for mailing as at least one postal-
service-compliant postcard), the customer preferably is provided
with the option of cutting double-printable magnetizable sheet 102
into USPS-compliant postcard dimensions, as shown by width X and
length Y in FIG. 3 (this arrangement at least herein embodying
wherein such at least one printable-magnetizable-sheet comprises at
least one geometry structured and arranged to permit cutting of
such at least one printable-magnetizable-sheet into at least one
width and at least one length suitable for mailing as such at least
one postal-service-compliant postcard). Width X preferably is no
larger than six and one-eighth inches and length Y preferably is no
larger than eleven and one-half inches. Upon reading this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as user preference, cost, changing needs, changing postal
service regulations, etc., other postcard dimensions may suffice.
Upon reading this specification, those with ordinary skill in the
art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as design preference, manufacturer
preference, user preference, cost, changing needs, etc., cutting
into postcard dimensions at the site of manufacture of magnetic
sheets may suffice.
In step Print on Surfaces 313 (at least embodying herein
providing such at least one customer the option of printing at
least one first indicia on such at least one first printable layer
using at least one digital press printer; and, at least embodying
herein providing such at least one customer the option of printing
at least one second indicia on such at least one second printable
layer using such at least one digital press printer), the customer
preferably is provided with the option of printing desired text,
colors, metallic effects, and/or images on first printable surface
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107 and/or second printable surface 109 preferably for direct-mail
advertising purposes. The customer preferably prints on first
printable surface 107 and/or second printable surface 109 using a
digital printer, preferably a digital press printer. Upon reading
this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as design preference, manufacturer preference, user
preference, cost, changing needs, future technologies, etc., other
types of printers, such as, for example, offset printers, laser
printers, inkjet printers, other types of digital press printers,
etc., may suffice. Upon reading this specification, those with
ordinary skill in the art will now appreciate that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as design
preference, manufacturer preference, user preference, cost,
changing needs, etc., printing at the site of manufacture of
magnetic sheets may suffice.
Upon completion of Step Cut into Postcard 311 and step Print
on Surfaces 313, customized magnetic postcard 112 preferably is
generated. The customer then preferably has the option mailing
customized magnetic postcard 112 to consumers according to step
Mail Magnetic Postcard 317, as shown.
Although applicant has described applicant's preferred
embodiments of this invention, it will be understood that the
broadest scope of this invention includes modifications such as
diverse shapes, sizes, and materials. Such scope is limited only
by the below claims as read in connection with the above
specification. Further, many other advantages of applicant's
invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the
above descriptions and the below claims.
33
