Digital printing machinery leader Kornit has acquired Voxel8, a manufacturer of advanced additive manufacturing technology for textiles.

Voxel8’s technology allows for the digital fabrication of functional features with zonal control of material properties, in addition to utilising high-performance elastomers adhering to inkjet technology.

“Voxel8’s innovative technologies and talent will help us accelerate the execution of our Industry 4.0 strategy to digitise sustainable, on-demand textile production,” said Ronen Samuel, Kornit CEO. “With this advanced and proven 3D technology, we will disrupt the business of fashion, empowering completely new creative decorative concepts and never-before-seen functional textile applications, while exploring new opportunities in the functional apparel and footwear markets.”

“By integrating our technology into Kornit’s product roadmap, we will be able to transform numerous market segments and verticals, accelerating our collective visions and technology advancements,” said Kobi Mann, Kornit Digital Chief Technology Officer. “Voxel8 offers direct 3D print-on-part capabilities, advanced design software that can be easily integrated with any production floor software workflow, and versatile chemistry enabling on-the-fly formulation of high-performance elastomers to change the material properties of the resulting printed structures by multiple orders of magnitude. This means reflective, high-density, silicone and metallics, as well as compression elements for sports and therapeutics, protection elements like cushioning and impact resistance, and functionality applications like anti-slip, waterproofing, and other qualities combining form and function.”

“Voxel8’s technology has been tested by some of the world’s leading global fashion and footwear brands, such as Hush Puppies, which is part of Wolverine Worldwide,” said added Fred von Gottberg, Voxel8’s president and CEO. It enables the digital creation of unique decorative and functional applications, while eliminating time and waste from the manufacturing process.”

www.kornit.com