Tuco Marine Group, is proud to announce their participation in the innovative research project, RoboPrint. The project, which receives an investment of DKK 19.7 million from the Innovation Fund, aims to revolutionize the production of high-strength fibre composites using 3D printing.
The project came to fruition following an approach from DTU – Technical University of Denmark, the leading partner, who, together with FORCE Technology, is responsible for developing the technology itself. Other partners include Robot At Work, providing the RAW 3D printer, and the American company Cosine Additive, responsible for developing the printer head to be used.
Tuco Marine Group, specializing in delivering fast workboats constructed with composite materials for professional users, sees significant potential in the RoboPrint project. The company’s CEO, Jonas Pedersen, states, “RoboPrint is an incredibly exciting project where we, alongside highly competent partners, have the opportunity to delve deep into the possibilities that automation can offer our production of fast workboats here in Faaborg.”
Currently, the production of composite boats is a labour-intensive process involving manual cutting, laying, and laminating of glass or carbon fibre in a mould. These manual methods pose risks of material defects, require careful handling of materials due to health considerations, and result in significant material waste. Moreover, the design flexibility is limited by the need to create a mould for each new design.
The RoboPrint project will change this paradigm by developing technology to reduce manual work in the manufacturing process, decrease costs, and enhance production quality. By implementing 3D printing and automation, Tuco will achieve higher levels of efficiency and flexibility in their production. The digitalization of the manufacturing process will also enable automated storage facilities and the production of new 3D designs.
Tuco Marine Group is excited to be part of this ground-breaking project that has the potential to position Denmark as a leading country in the automated production of high-strength fibre composites. With the RoboPrint project, Tuco enters a new era of production technology that will strengthen their position in the market and ensure continued innovation and quality in the production of fast workboats.