Mimaki Europe will display replica artefacts as part of a diverse range of 3D printed applications at Formnext 2025
Celebrating its 50th anniversary, Mimaki will partner with SMARTTECH3D, a provider of high-precision scanning solutions, to produce highly accurate artefact replicas for museums and the heritage sector. Combining SMARTTECH’s advanced scanning capabilities with Mimaki’s full-colour 3D printing technology enables the faithful reproduction of artefacts, replicating both colour and texture with exceptional fidelity. By using this technology, the original pieces can be preserved or restored while the replicas can still be viewed and interacted with by visitors.
The artefact is first scanned by SMARTTECH3D 3D’s technology, then these files are sent and printed by Mimaki’s 3D full-colour printers for use in museums, research institutions, and cultural organisations. Visitors can explore and learn about the full “scan-to-print” workflow at Mimaki’s stand, accompanied by a selection of museum-grade replicas.
Arjen Evertse, Director Sales at Mimaki Europe, comments, “This year we’re spotlighting how 3D printing intersects with history and heritage, and how our technology can help preserve it. Our partnership with SMARTTECH3D is an exciting example of how the high accuracy and full colour capabilities of 3D printing can be leveraged to produce true-to-life 3D replicas. At Mimaki we always want our technology to inspire and encourage our customers to explore new markets and produce new applications beyond the expected.”
Another highlight on the Mimaki stand will be the eye-catching “Eros-Thanatos” sculpture by post-digital artist humanoise (Taketo Kobayashi). Using 3D-scanned data of Japanese pottery dating back 10,000 years, humanoise merged ancient structures with futuristic elements to create a unique and vibrant vase-like vessel. This sculpture will join other 3D-printed artworks produced by humanoise and various artists for the collaborative project “Digital G-O-D”, which was also exhibited in Amsterdam earlier this year.
Mimaki’s full-colour 3DUJ-2207 printer allows users to produce realistic 3D prints, vital for artefacts and delicate artworks while also valuable for the broader design, engineering, medical and creative sectors. Able to print in over 10 million colours and with clear, translucent ink, users can create complex vibrant designs and visual effects with high accuracy. The printer also uses water soluble support to simplify post-processing and preserve intricate features.
“Formnext is where ideas take shape – and with Mimaki’s full-colour 3D printing, we are proving that even the past can be reimagined in vivid detail,” concludes Evertse.
Mimaki launches JV200-160 Roll-to-Roll Printer
Noztek introduces Infinity Print Conveyor for robotic 3D printing
