The Suffolk-based robotics company said that while it would continue to work with Fujifilm, it was interested in working with other wide-format equipment manufacturers as well as directly with end users.

The automated media handling system for the Inca Onset was first shown at Drupa on the Fujifilm stand. It can be specified to deliver either three-quarters automation (where an operator is still required on the loading table) or full automation.

Clinchtech sales and project manager Andy Griggs said that it would require a simple frame modification to adapt the system for other wide-format printers and that it could be retrofitted to devices in the field.

“Our target would be for product take-up with other OEMs as well as end-user retrofits or maybe end users specifying our handling system to their preferred press provider,” said Griggs.

“The end-user possibilities are wide as the system has a very large handling capacity of 25kg and could easily be up-rated to higher payloads. The only restriction would be the substrates being handled; for example, very porous papers and cards require and achieve different results from dense materials such as MDF, metal panels and plasterboard.”

The media handling system includes a automated registration system to ensure correct positional layup, an eight second transfer time, and can be supplied left hand or right hand load to suit factory layout.

“The complete system can be configured to allow multiple in-feed stacks giving long print runs without operator intervention and increased sheet print per hour output,” said Griggs.

“The latest safety systems we have installed allow unhindered safe access to the out feed, ensuring quality is being maintained [while] the full auto system is also capable of allowing unrestricted safe access to the printer bed.”

Griggs said that while pricing would depend on the customer site and specification, a standard, no frills semi-auto handling system for the POS market would have a list price in the region of £200,000 ex works.