Epson is launching Contourjet, a brand dedicated to its 3D direct-to-object printing system. The Japanese manufacturer combines its PrecisionCore S800 inkjet printhead with an in-house developed six-axis industrial robot.
The Contourjet principle involves moving the print head around complex-shaped parts to print directly onto curved, irregular, or grooved surfaces. The PrecisionCore S800 print head operates at a resolution of 600 x 600 DPI. An independent vertical movement mechanism complements the robot?s six axes to expand the range of possible printing orientations.
Epson has equipped this system with its path control and image processing technologies. Contourjet supports multicolor printing, as well as white ink and clear varnish. This allows the system to create background layers and textural effects, among other things.
Support for larger 3D-printed parts
Among the improvements made to the system are robots with increased load capacity and linear motor drives. This configuration should make it possible to process larger and longer parts. Epson has also adopted front access, specifically to facilitate printhead replacement and maintenance operations.
The manufacturer cites the decoration of sporting goods, automotive parts, and industrial products as examples of possible applications. Direct digital printing eliminates the need for printing plates and the specialized materials required by certain analog processes, which in particular paves the way for small-batch production and customized products.
Epson also highlights that ink is deposited only where needed and in the required amounts, resulting in reduced material consumption and waste compared to analog processes.
Contourjet Trials in Japan and Germany
Development and testing of inkjet printing on 3D-printed objects are conducted at the Fujimi Inkjet Innovation Lab in Nagano, Japan. In Europe, the Epson Experience Center in Neuss, Germany, offers customers the opportunity to conduct tests using their own materials.
Contourjet is more than just a printing system. Epson plans to bundle it with inks, software, installation support, and maintenance. The manufacturer is also working with partners to determine the appropriate inks and usage settings for different media and applications.
