Epson Unveils 'ContourJet,' a Printing Solution Combining Inkjet and Robotics

Combines PrecisionCore printheads with six-axis robots
Enables precision printing on automotive parts and sports equipment
"Directly sprays ink onto curved and contoured surfaces"

Seiko Epson announced ContourJet on Thursday, a printing solution that combines printheads with industrial articulated robots to reproduce designs on three-dimensional surfaces.

ContourJet is a direct-printing solution that sprays ink directly onto the curved surfaces of three-dimensional products. It expands the traditional, flat-surface-focused work environment into the three-dimensional realm. The solution can be used in a range of manufacturing settings, including sports equipment, automotive interior and exterior components, and various industrial equipment.

Printing samples featuring Epson's ContourJet 3D surface direct-printing solution (left) applied to a variety of three-dimensional products. Epson

It also significantly improves manufacturing flexibility and resource efficiency. ContourJet digitizes conventional analog surface-coating and transfer-printing processes. It requires neither separate printing plates nor specially processed materials, making it suitable for high-mix, low-volume production and customized designs.

By reducing manual steps, the system lowers the floor space required for installation and manufacturing costs. It precisely sprays only the amount of ink needed at each point. This helps build an environmentally friendly manufacturing environment by reducing raw material use and limiting waste.

ContourJet also enhances hardware performance and ease of maintenance. It is equipped with a linear-motor drive system and a robot with a high payload capacity. Its design allows equipment to be accessed from the front of the unit, making it easy for operators to replace printheads and inspect components.

Beyond supplying the equipment, Epson offers an integrated solution that includes dedicated inks, control software, and after-sales maintenance. At its technology development site in Japan, the company is advancing its core technologies for printing on three-dimensional shapes. At its customer evaluation center in Germany, it helps local companies conduct test printing using actual materials.

Jun Morofushi, president of Epson Korea, said, "ContourJet combines Epson's proprietary inkjet printing and printhead control technologies with its robotics expertise, expanding the potential applications of precision technology into new industrial fields. We will continue to strengthen synergies among our core technologies and introduce innovative solutions that help customers improve productivity and reduce their environmental impact."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.