Ian Stephenson

Title: Ian Stephenson: Innovator in Thermal Transfer Printing

Introduction

Ian Stephenson is a notable inventor based in Essex, GB. He has made significant contributions to the field of printing technology, particularly through his innovative patent related to thermal transfer printing. His work has implications for various industries, especially those involving three-dimensional articles.

Latest Patents

Ian Stephenson holds a patent for a retransfer intermediate sheet designed for thermal transfer printing. This invention features a substrate that is preferably heat-deformable, along with an image-receiving coating on one side. The coating comprises an image-receiving layer that is suitable for receiving images printed with dye-containing ink, particularly through inkjet printing. The image-receiving layer includes amorphous porous silica, a first non-dye absorbing polymeric binder, and a second flexible polymeric binder. This innovative sheet is particularly useful for printing on three-dimensional articles, as it can be heated and vacuum formed to conform to various shapes. The patent also covers a method of printing and an article that bears a printed image.

Career Highlights

Ian is associated with Akzo Nobel Coatings International B.V., where he has been able to apply his expertise in printing technology. His work has contributed to advancements in the field, enhancing the capabilities of thermal transfer printing.

Collaborations

Ian has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Richard A. Hann and Anthony Joseph Martino. Their combined efforts have furthered the development of innovative printing solutions.

Conclusion

Ian Stephenson's contributions to thermal transfer printing exemplify the impact of innovation in technology. His patent and work at Akzo Nobel Coatings International B.V. highlight the importance of advancements in printing methods.