Evolve Additive Solutions
Kodak will supply Evolve Additive Solutions with imaging systems, parts, and consumables based on its Kodak Nexpress digital electrophotographic platform after the pair announced a technology partnership.
The companies have also signed Joint Development Agreements for equipment and materials, and Kodak has licensed relevant intellectual property to Evolve to support the progress of its Selective Thermoplastic Electrophotographic Process (STEP) technology. Evolve is targeting 2020 for the commercialisation of its proprietary 3D printing process.
Efforts will now be supplemented by Kodak’s wealth of expertise through more than 40 years working with electrophotographic technology and the Nexpress modular platform. Evolve will also harness a toner manufacturing process from Kodak to produce part toners for its 3D printing system. Collaboration between the two companies is set to move beyond shared ideas, technologies, and materials, to include manufacturing, service, and support.
The first STEP system has been shipped under an alpha development program, and installed at a strategic partner’s facility, where resources from Evolve and Kodak are being used. In time, the partners expect this system to be on factory floors far and wide, operating alongside other manufacturing equipment, but offering freedom of design and toolless production.
“We are very encouraged by the opportunity to expand our electrophotographic platform capabilities outside of 2D imaging to the 3D printing or additive manufacturing sector,” commented John O’Grady, President, Print Systems Division, Kodak. “Having worked closely with the talented staff of engineers working on the STEP technology for several years, we are confident Evolve will help change the way the organisations approach production of plastic parts for manufacturing.”
“Creating a strong technology partnership with Kodak is an important element in the development of STEP,” said Steve Chillscyzn, CEO of Evolve Additive Solutions. “The selection of the Kodak systems and technology for STEP allows us to deliver to the market a highly-reliable solution, based on a proven engine that is recognised as one of the most productive printing systems in world. By working with Kodak, we have a technology and a collaborative relationship that will not only allow us to get to market quickly, but we will have the throughput expansion to grow as we push STEP capabilities into the future.”
