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The Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) has developed a prototype robotic inkjet printing system that can print directly onto three-dimensional surfaces—specifically, airplanes. Richard Romano spoke to SwRI Senior Research Engineer Branson Brockschmidt about the project.
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About Richard Romano
Richard Romano is Managing Editor of WhatTheyThink. He curates the Wide Format section on WhatTheyThink.com. He has been writing about the graphic communications industry for more than 25 years. He is the author or coauthor of more than half a dozen books on printing technology and business. His most recent book is “Beyond Paper: An Interactive Guide to Wide-Format and Specialty Printing.
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Discussion
By Patrick Henry on Aug 11, 2022
About six years ago, Heidelberg introduced an inkjet-based, direct-to-three-dimensional-object printing system it calls Omnifire:
https://whattheythink.com/news/83101-new-heidelberg-digital-printing-system-provides-color-custom-cost-effective-printing-suitcases-motorcycle-helmets-ice-hockey-sticks/
If I'm not mistaken, Xerox also had a go at direct-to-3D-object printing, and others likely have as well. The technology is there. Presumably, the market for it is on the way.
By Rich Ramirez on Aug 11, 2022
Excellent article. Very exciting stuff!