At Drupa the manufacturer is presenting its plans to bring the Samba heads from its Jet Press 720S to its Jet Press 540W roll-to-roll digital machine.

This would allow the 540W to print on offset papers to create an automated book production system when paired with Epac's E2 fully automated multi-dimensional production system.

For book manufacturing this would mean E2 systems, which are robotically operated, would combine the best components for printing, cutting, binding, trimming and sorting orders for delivery to end-users through automated processes that involve no human intervention.

The two firms said the development would bring a short-run, full-automation, zero-waste printing system with “true offset quality" to the market. Other benefits would include saving costs and increasing reliability.

Fujifilm Global Graphic Systems director and corporate vice-president Takuo Ito said: “Many printers are caught in spiralling or shrinking demand and declining profits. In light of this situation, we propose to change the game by revolutionising the print production process and automating digital print quality.

“In addition to the three evolutionary printing dimensions – offset printing, digital printing and 3D printing – Fujifilm’s 5D Printing will create two new paradigms in the printing industry using Fujifilm’s true offset digital print quality and, in partnership with Epac Technologies, game-changing print automation.

“This 5D solution will provide near-infinite flexibility and unmatched volume, helping to create greater profitability and market expansion.”