Epson has launched Contourjet, a new direct-to-shape printing system designed to print directly onto three-dimensional objects with curved and uneven surfaces.
Some of the applications made possible by Epson’s Direct-to-Shape technology
The system combines Epson’s S800 PrecisionCore printhead with a high-precision industrial six-axis robot, bringing together the company’s inkjet and robotics technologies. Potential applications include sporting goods, automotive parts and other industrial products.
Contourjet is aimed at high-mix, low-volume production and personalisation, with multicolour printing including white and clear inks. According to Epson, this allows users to produce a range of decorative effects, from base-layer printing through to textured finishes.
The system offers a resolution of 600 x 600dpi and supports up to five ink colours, such as CMYK plus white. Its six-axis robot and independent lifting mechanisms allow the printhead to work at different angles, while trajectory control and image processing are used to accommodate curved surfaces.
Epson said the technology could help manufacturers digitise conventional analogue decoration processes, reducing manual work and the amount of production space required. The company also claims that the ability of inkjet to deposit material only where and in the quantities required can reduce material use and waste.
“Epson continues to create new inkjet applications that go beyond the boundaries of flat-surface printing by combining PrecisionCore printheads with robotics technology,” said Kan Igarashi, director of IJS Europe at Epson Deutschland. “Contourjet contributes to improved customer productivity and reduced environmental impact and supports printing on large and long workpieces through the adoption of linear-motor drive and robots with increased payload capacity.”
The launch expands Epson’s use of inkjet technology beyond conventional flat substrates, with Contourjet designed to provide a digital alternative for decorating complex three-dimensional products.
