FUJIFILM to launch hybrid automation system at drupa 2024

At drupa 2024, FUJIFILM will preview its automation system to give its customers the option to upgrade their high end Acuity Hybrid wide format machines with a full solution. The robotics unit allows a single operator to run the machine and facilitates a pallet-to-pallet process for rigid substrates. The robust system, which was designed to support and speed up production lines, comprises a loading option to feed rigid substrates onto the printer and an unloading system to unload material from printer to pallet. It can be set to deliver full or half automation.

The system has four lanes and allows four rows of material to be printed simultaneously. Each lane has two suction arms to pick up materials and a vacuum that can be adjusted to carry a variety of substrates and surfaces with different weights. There is also an optional ionization unit which removes unwanted static from substrates that are typically challenging to print on. The automation system’s user-friendly GUI seamlessly communicates with the printer while allowing the operator to continuously monitor the materials being handled. The automation unit includes a specially designed latching system, patented by Fujifilm, which enables it to be quickly connected to the printer.