Mercedes-Benz has switched to a new paint technology. For now, it will only be used in Manufaktur Studio, that is, as part of the customization program of the same name. The technology is called PixelPaint and is reminiscent of inkjet printing. No specific preliminary preparation is required. A special head applies paint from two colors and makes individual designs in one pass. In this case, the cycle time is halved and less paint is used.
Mercedes-Benz does not say who is the supplier of the new technology, but most likely it is the company ABB
Specifically for its IRB 5500 robots, equipped with an inkjet head instead of a sprayer, which allows not only to use up to 100 percent of the paint, but also to apply two colors and individual designs in one. The innovative solution includes a high-resolution inkjet head, a dispensing control package and special software for two-tone and decorative painting.
PixelPaint will be used in the new Manufaktur Studio, where customers will be able to personally watch the creation of their car
Every day, up to 20 cars will pass through the studio, and all this thanks to the so-called matrix production, divided into nine groups. As the studio will be located in the heart of the state-of-the-art Factory 56 in Sindelfingen, there will be AGV robotic carts, access to a unified information platform connecting component suppliers, production departments and end customers, and a digital twin of the vehicle through which they can to make last minute changes.
From 2021, the Manufaktur program is available to owners of the CLS, Mercedes-AMG GT, long-wheelbase S-Class and flagship Mercedes-Maybach S-Class models. And two years earlier, the program was launched for the G-class. One third of buyers in the highest price segment use personalization services, so it was decided to expand the program further. For example, from next year new colors from the Manufaktur Exclusive palette plus special options will be available for the S-Class. The same is planned for Mercedes-AMG sports cars.
