The VersaObject MO-180 UV flatbed printer features two newly developed large printheads in a staggered layout, a powerful UV-LED lamp, and optimised dot control technology, according to the manufacturer.
It achieves a production colour print speed of 3.43sqm/hr and prints white and colour at 1.45sqm/hr, more than twice the speed of its predecessor, the LEF2-200.
With the inclusion of Roland DG EUV5 inks, which offer Orange and Red in addition to CMYK, Primer, High-Density White, and Gloss, the colour gamut expands by around 20%, allowing for more accurate colour reproduction and vibrant prints.
The Gloss ink further enhances the ability to produce premium gloss or matte finishes, as well as realistic 3D embossed textures.
The new machine supports a wide range of materials, from soft to hard surfaces, including plastic, acrylics, leather, wood, glass, and metal (with primer ink), making it suitable for producing customised products.
The printer’s 458x305mm print area sits on a vacuum table that accommodates objects up to 204mm thick, while its ability to incorporate tall fixtures allows for printing on items of various shapes.
Users can also access an optional Ionizer Bar, which facilitates sharper prints and smoother material handling, as well as an optional rotary axis unit enabling the printing of cylindrical objects, such as bottles, with diameters ranging from 10mm to 121mm.
Designed for intuitive operation, the VersaObject MO-180 features a seven-inch full-colour touch panel that provides quick access to print settings, maintenance functions, and operational controls.
Alongside the MO-180, Roland DG has launched VersaWorks 7, the latest edition of its integrated RIP software. VersaWorks 7 is said to offer an intuitive user interface, expanded compatibility, and advanced automation features.
A redesigned Dark Mode has been introduced to reduce eye strain and improve visibility, while a streamlined navigation system accelerates workflow efficiency.
The enhanced interface improves job listing and navigation, reducing the learning curve and potential mistakes in production, according to Roland DG.
Utilising 62% less memory for rasterisation and requiring up to five times less storage space for installation, VersaWorks 7 is said to ensure faster processing speeds and stable operation.
With added integration capabilities, the software now fully supports both Windows and macOS and processes PDF, EPS, and PS files.
The software includes expanded printing capabilities, such as one-click White, Gloss, and Primer layer generation, along with new dither patterns optimised for different resolutions.
Integrated with the Roland DG Connect platform, VersaWorks 7 enables remote monitoring, error detection, and workflow analysis, the manufacturer said.
Meanwhile. for businesses managing large-scale customisation and e-commerce orders, PrintAutoMate, available through a subscription model, automates batch printing, streamlining workflows and boosting efficiency.
The PrintAutoMate add-on, combined with VersaWorks 7, enables businesses to customise their software experience to meet specific needs, Roland DG said.
Francisco Lozano, product manager EMEA, said: “As consumer demand for personalised and customised products continues to grow, Roland DG remains committed to equipping businesses with innovative tools for success.
“The need for small-to-medium batch production of high-value customised goods is increasing across industries, and with the MO-180 and VersaWorks 7, businesses can now meet this demand with greater efficiency, precision, and creativity.
“Following the success of the MO-240, the MO-180 offers a compact yet powerful solution, enabling businesses to expand their product offerings with ease, coupled with the necessary software to power them to success.”
Roland DG Connect, meanwhile, has recently been enhanced to offer a completely redesigned user interface, more robust performance, and new, more personalised plan options, including a continued free plan for Roland DG printer owners.
In addition to the free plan option, Roland DG Connect previously offered Professional and Premium plans for a fee. Now, each paid function can be added individually, so users can select only those functions they prefer according to the nature of their business.
