Purpose

UV-sensitive, demanding letterpress forms should be able to be imaged in a controlled manner. X!Direct enables direct 3D imaging using UV lasers.

Main functions

The UV laser hardens the material in-depth but offers no support for fine positive graphic elements. The software provides this support without damaging the intermediate depths. 

In zones requiring support, a selected amount of laser energy is delivered in a variable number of steps and sizes. The exposed area increases while the laser energy around the element to be supported decreases. This is shown below in grayscale.

The level of grey corresponds to the level of energy. More energy is delivered close to the element, gradually reducing in the surrounding area.