Who Needs More Printers? Epson Is Turning Printer Technology Into Robots.

Epson is showing that printer technology can have a future far beyond the traditional printing market, using decades of expertise in precision inkjet systems, motion control, microdevices and ultra-accurate manufacturing to expand its industrial robotics business. The Japanese technology giant is applying the same engineering principles behind high-precision printheads and printer mechanisms to industrial robots designed for automated assembly, electronics, semiconductor and smart-factory applications. As the traditional printer market becomes increasingly mature and competitive, Epson’s strategy demonstrates how printer engineering, precision control and manufacturing know-how can be repurposed into higher-growth industrial technologies, potentially making robotics an increasingly important part of Epson’s future while keeping its printer technology at the core of its innovation strategy.