Epson has launched CONTOURJET, a new brand for its Direct-To-Shape Printing System that combines the company’s proprietary inkjet and robotics technologies. Under the new brand, Epson will provide a total solution covering the printing system, inks, related software, implementation support, and maintenance services.
The company plans to expand CONTOURJET globally into markets where demand for decorating three-dimensional objects is expected to grow, including sports equipment, automotive parts, and industrial products.
CONTOURJET direct-to-shape printing system
CONTOURJET combines Epson’s compact PrecisionCore S800 printhead with an Epson-developed industrial six-axis robot. Epson has enhanced the system with several features for printing on three-dimensional objects:
- PrecisionCore S800 printhead with 600 dpi × 600 dpi high-resolution printing
- Six-axis robot with an independent vertical lifting mechanism for flexible printing orientations and a wide variety of three-dimensional shapes
- Epson-developed robots with linear motor drives and increased payload capacity for larger and longer workpieces
- Proprietary trajectory control and image processing for printing on complex curved and irregular surfaces
- Front-access design for easier maintenance, including printhead replacement
- Multicolor printing with white ink and clear varnish ink
- Decorative effects ranging from base-layer printing to texturing
Efficiency and environmental impact
By digitalizing conventional analog printing processes, CONTOURJET reduces manual labor, saves space, and improves manufacturing efficiency. In addition, its inkjet technology deposits ink only in the locations and amounts needed, which consumes less material and creates less waste than analog processes, reducing environmental impact.
The system also does not require printing plates or special materials. As a result, it supports short-run production and bespoke applications while allowing a wide range of decorative designs.
Research and partnerships
Epson has been conducting research and development, as well as evaluation and verification of inkjet printing technologies for three-dimensional objects, using CONTOURJET at its Inkjet Innovation Lab Fujimi in Fujimi, Nagano Prefecture, Japan.
Meanwhile, the Epson Experience Center in Neuss, Germany, provides European customers with a facility to use CONTOURJET to produce and evaluate test prints using their actual substrates. Based on the expertise and know-how developed through these facilities in Japan and Europe, Epson is promoting collaboration with global partners to accelerate business development in the three-dimensional decoration market.
Epson also works with partner companies to recommend optimal inks and operating methods tailored to specific applications and substrates.
Showcase and future plans
Epson will exhibit CONTOURJET at PRINTING United Expo 2026 from September 23 to 25 at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Nevada, USA. The company will showcase the system’s features and capabilities using samples produced with CONTOURJET.
Going forward, Epson will continue developing applications for inkjet technology beyond conventional flat-surface printing by combining PrecisionCore printhead technology with its robotics technologies. The company’s approach follows its philosophy of developing efficient, compact, and precise technologies. Through these efforts, Epson aims to enhance customer productivity, reduce environmental impact, and contribute to a more sustainable society.