might need several precise decorations, the ability to do this in one automated step is a real advantage,” Scolaro says.“ The same is true for consumer goods, where manufacturers are under pressure to deliver variety quickly.”
Roboprint develops the print head, while Shibaura Machine engineers ensure it can be integrated with their robots, such as the TVM900 and controllers like the TSL3200E. Direct communication between the system and the robot controller synchronises pad movements with robotic positioning, ensuring accuracy and repeatability. TM Robotics, as Shibaura’ s European distributor, has provided commercial expertise and technical support.
The roll-out of T-TRANSFER includes demonstrations of the technology, such as at the K 2025 exhibition in Düsseldorf, Germany, billed as the world’ s number one trade fair for plastics and rubber. These displays show the integration between RoboPrint’ s transfer printing head and the Shibaura TVM900 6-axis robot, with 900 mm reach and 20 kg payload, decorating products like business card holders and more complex 3D surfaces.
“ When people see the system in action, they understand how it can change their process,” Scolaro says.“ The feedback so far has been overwhelmingly positive.”
Future directions
Roboprint and its partners are already considering the next phase of development. One proposal is the intelligent logo, in which transfers incorporate Radio Frequency Identification( RFID) tags or sensors capable of storing and transmitting data. This would allow components to be tracked through the supply chain, support authenticity checks or monitor the use of safety equipment.
“ This is about decoration becoming part of the digital identity of a product,” Scolaro explains.“ From recycling data to traceability, there are many possibilities once you start embedding information directly into the decorated surface.”
Such concepts align with wider industry trends towards digital manufacturing and regulatory changes, including the introduction of Digital Product Passports under the European Union’ s Ecodesign Regulation. These passports will require detailed information on product composition and recyclability. By embedding this information during decoration, manufacturers could simplify compliance and improve supplychain transparency.
T-TRANSFER reflects the wider move in manufacturing towards processes that combine efficiency, flexibility and sustainability. While pad and screen printing are unlikely to disappear overnight, innovations that reduce chemical use, cut waste and integrate more seamlessly into production cycles are likely to attract growing attention.
The collaboration between Roboprint, Shibaura Machine and TM Robotics illustrates how partnerships between emerging innovators and established suppliers can help the plastics industry adapt to new demands.
As Smith observes:“ This is a technology that bridges tradition and the future. It respects the need for durable decoration while answering the call for greener, more flexible production.”
To learn more about T-TRANSFER and Shibaura Machine robots, visit the TM Robotics website.
The heated silicone pad in Roboprint’ s T-TRANSFER process adapts to intricate geometries, transferring designs directly at the moulding press.
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