Are you starting a sign business, or considering starting one? If so, this new book will introduce you to many of the important facets involved in running a sign shop. Getting Started in the Sign Business ...
A good mix: The Millennium and the cutting system
| Tweet |
By Chris Morrison, Kathi Morrison
We believe all digital printers need an intelligent, interface cutting system to "finish cut" flat, digitally printed pieces and take them to a more merchandisable level. We're not talking about laminating — although it's a good idea — or adding grommets. No, we think it's the 3-D aspect that takes an image off the wall.
Surely, you've seen a life-sized, foamboard, digitally printed cutout of Michael Jordon selling basketball shoes in the mall? How about the cut-out, POP displays at the cash register? Traditionally, special screenprinting or offset presses printed such images, and either die- or hand-cutting shaped the outlines. Back then, only a mountain of such images could justify the per-item cost.
Slowly, we've seen such processes change. UV-cure printers now allow moderate-sized shops to image full color on virtually anything. Contour cutting the printed images, however, often presents a new set of problems. Recently, AXYZ Intl. made everything easier.
In the past few years, we've seen computerized cameras bolted to the tool holders of numerous CNC routers. When special registration marks are printed with the image, the software, using the camera, can precisely contour-cut the piece, even if it's not perfectly loaded onto the table. The combination of such an equipped CNC router and a UV-cure printer makes your shop a source for full-color, digital cutouts.
Last year, we reviewed several top-notch AXYZ CNC routers (Fig. 1); further, the company will build one to fit virtually anyone's needs. At ISA's Sign Expo 2006, AXYZ introduced its Intelligent Cutting System (ICS), with its proven i-cut® control technology. I-cut includes i-script® workflow communication that connects it to industry-leading RIPs and printers including: 3M Industrial Adhesives & Tapes Div., Durst U.S., Wasatch, Amiable Technologies, Caldera, Colorburst®/|2324|®, Ergosoft, Hewlett-Packard Indigo and Onyx Graphics Inc.®.
Before looking at the ICS system, we'd like to discuss the AXYZ product line. Even if your interest is primarily CNC routing, and you're in the market for a router, you'll be interested in their products.
Millennium
Did you enjoy this article? Click here to subscribe to the magazine.
Games provide a temporary escape from soccer jerseys wholesale this busy life. They can take you to a new, fun-filled and exciting world. Games can also help you to create a strong bond with your family members and cheap soccer jerseys friends-provided you pick the right one. A Lyric game is one of the most interesting types of games, one which can broaden your musical tastes as you are exposed to the soccer jerseys choices of other players.