The Dresden-based company Bohemia Arts presented a new patented 3D post-print processing method at the AM Forum in Berlin last December. It shows how irregular objects can be given a photorealistic surface by removing paint with a laser. The objects are coated in three-dimensional color prior to ablation. The ablation time per object is approx. 5 to 15 minutes per color for an area of 400 square centimeters.
Removal by laser
In the process, the user applies one or more colors to the 3D object and partially removes them again in three dimensions with a laser using the patented process. A single-axis system is used for a relief. Multi-axis laser engraving systems can be used to process three-dimensional objects. The wavelength of the laser and the chemical basis of the paints and varnishes used must be taken into account. The objects can be made of metal, porcelain, plastic, wood or stone.
Investors wanted
Bohemia Arts has tested and patented the process, but has not yet brought it to production maturity. The manufacturer is therefore looking for partners and investors to launch the process on the market and, above all, to further develop the CMYK process.