Insights to the quality of 2D and 3D printing applications through imagining

Abstract

Imaging technology has revolutionized the printing industry, enhancing efficiency, quality, and versatility in various printing processes, including graphic applications on 2D and 3D objects, as well as additive manufacturing (AM) or 3D printing - directly building 3D objects layer-by-layer from digital model. This paper exemplifies the applications of imaging technologies in various printing processes of 2D and 3D printing applications. In the realm of packaging printing on 2D substrates, the roles of imaging technologies are highlighted through applications in quantifying paper topography (surface roughness), ink absorption, and dynamic interactions between the print plate, the ink, and the substrate. Regarding AM or 3D printing, imaging technology is of fundamental importance enabling the entire process from digitalization of the object with 3D scanning, CAD design and visualization, to in-situ (real time) monitoring of manufacturing process, and post-production quality inspection, e.g. revealing the relationship between the variation of mechanical strength of 3D printed objects with its pore characteristics have been provided.