Aimed at start-up firms, sign-makers and printing shops, the ARM-10 3D printer from Roland DG is set to revolutionise business with a whole range of possibilities for clients. Trophies, special gifts, prizes, toys and to use an old fashioned phrase ‘fancy goods’, could create new revenue streams for signage firms.

Roland says: “The ARM-10 3D printer is ideal for quickly checking a design in the initial stage of prototyping or modelling a complex shape. Incorporating a stereo-lithography process with a UV-LED projection system, the ARM-10 builds models by sequentially curing layers of resin from a liquid resin vat. Simultaneous production of multiple objects can be accomplished within the same work area, reducing modelling time when compared to methods where lasers expose specific areas.”

They go on to say that their imageCure resin becomes semi-transparent when cured and “post-processing procedures such as support removal and polishing are simple to do.”

3D printers have generated worldwide media attention due to the possibilities. Originally considered a 'secret weapon' in the manufacturing world, particularly in developed countries, governments and businesses are now increasing their investments in 3D printer research and development to revitalize manufacturing and add value to products. Schools and colleges in particular have taken the process to their hearts as they are ideal for putting into substance the students’ creative designs.