Future Links August 24th 2015
Today our news roundup from the printing industry covers Honda’s use of 3D printing for prototypes, a new kind of glue for 3D printing, a successful competition involving two companies and the maker community, how to achieve depth and motion in print, Afga Graphics’ new software, the growing popularity of printed catalogues and the new packaging company combining Ampac and Prolamina’s businesses.
Honda uses 3D printing for new prototypes
Car manufacturers are increasingly using 3D printing to cut development times for new models or modifications. The newest example: Honda. The auto manufacturer just launched its 2016 Pilot, which is the product of a new computer-driven process in which the automaker eliminated hand-built prototypes and replaced them by 3D printed ones.
More at Autonews
New glue for better first layer adhesion in 3D printing
Thought 3D, a company based in Malta, developed a special kind of glue that addresses first layer adhesion problems in 3D printing. The adhesive called Magigoo sticks under 3D printing conditions, according to the company, and releases with minimal effort once the print is complete.
More at Times of Malta
3D printed drones win prizes and industry recognition
This was a unique collaboration between a company and the maker community: When DJI, a market leader in the production of easy to fly drones, and Shapeways announced a contest to build useful and creative accessories for DJI’s drones, many 3D printing enthusiasts responded. The winner, Fusion Imaging, created an attachment that allows the drone to land on water.
More at 3D Print
Achieving motion and depth in print
Lenticular print is a special printing method and the effects can be any combination of motion, stereoscopic depth, and sudden changes. Most people know the effects from their childhood when they were delighted by – admittedly poorly made – bubblegum cards featuring magicians, dolphins or tigers. The memories aside, properly done large format lenticular print can make a very attractive artistic or promotional medium.
More at FESPA
Agfa Grafics’ software helps companies reach new markets
Agfa Graphics has released a new version of its cloud-based web to print workflow system, StoreFront 3.0, designed for commercial printing (Apogee) and display and signage (Asanti). The company says the software gives companies a series of new features to promote their service offerings to their customers and reach new markets online.
More at i-Grafix
Printed catalogues regain popularity in Australia
Market research indicates that the readership for printed catalogues is growing. Catalogues’ readership fell from more than 11 million in 2011 to about 9.5 million in 2013, but then rallied from a 10 % rise since then, with all trends pointing up. Roy Morgan chief executive Michele Levine says 54 % of Australians now read at least one catalogue a week.
More at Pro Print
Private equity firm combines Ampac and Prolamina
The product portfolios of flexible packaging manufacturer Prolamina and Ampac, Ampac a diversified global packaging company with 13 manufacturing centers in North America, Europe and Asia, are highly compatible. Given the expected growth of the flexible packaging market, Wellspring Capital, a private equity firm, decided to acquire Ampac and merge the company with its existing portfolio company Prolamia.
More at Labels & Labeling