Roland DG launches new VersaOBJECT range for direct printing onto 3D objects

Roland DG has announced the launch of a new VersaOBJECT brand of products capable of printing brilliant colours directly on a wide variety of three-dimensional objects. The lineup adds six CO models to its series of large-format UV-LED flatbed inkjet printers, four with fixed flatbed tables and two with belt systems, providing users with many options.

“The VersaOBJECT line is our direct printing solution that enables easy and efficient high-precision printing on three-dimensional objects without using conventional methods such as pad printing or screen printing that require specialised skill and know-how,” says Tony Miller, President of Global Sales and Marketing Division. “We were quick to recognise the value of direct printing by digital technology, and in 2011 we launched our first UV flatbed printer capable of printing on materials such as resin, leather, and wood. Since then, we have added numerous UV direct-to-object inkjet products that have become very popular.”

"As consumer needs become more diverse and individualised,” Miller continued, “it is essential to provide one-of-a-kind products and services and to respond flexibly to the trend toward small-lot, high-mix manufacturing. In such an environment, it is becoming increasingly important to add value to consumer products and other items and to provide them on demand. To respond to these increasing needs across various industries, we have launched a new brand, VersaOBJECT, to strengthen and diversify customer offerings.”

The new CO inkjet series is equipped with UV inks that cure via ultraviolet irradiation and can print directly on various materials such as plastic, leather, wood, and cloth. Based on their material and application, customers can choose the best solution for their needs from six different models in 64-inch and 30-inch widths, including four flatbeds with three different fixed table sizes for the 64-inch versions, and two printers with belt systems.

The CO series can print to objects up to 200 mm in height and 100 kg/sqm in weight and allows printing to be performed on gently curved or uneven surfaces. This makes it ideal for personalisation of a variety of consumer products, and customisation of industrial products and parts, interior decoration, sign graphics, POP displays, packaging, and other high-mix, low-volume production. In addition, the belt system allows printing on items with longer shapes, as well as on unique, thicker roll media like natural or synthetic leather, felt, and rubber mats.

Precision ink firing and powerful LED lamps cure the ink fast. This combination delivers stunning images and high colour saturation and reproduces the finest details, from small text to elaborately textured patterns and gradations. CO series printers support CMYKOrRe and special inks of Clear, White, and Primer. The use of Clear ink produces finishing effects such as gloss, matte, textures and simulated embossing. High-opacity White ink is often used as a base coat when printing on transparent film or dark objects, while Primer ink makes it possible to print on materials that were previously difficult to print on, such as metal.

"VersaOBJECT's direct printing solutions revolutionise the conventional decorating process, bringing numerous benefits and a competitive advantage to our customers' businesses, including shorter delivery times, reduced costs, greater flexibility, reduced environmental impact, and new business development. We will continue to expand our product lineup and the possibilities of on-demand decoration with VersaOBJECT to enhance our customers’ creativity and grow their businesses,” concludes Miller.