have evolved from basic mechanical automation to advanced visual intelligence. “Although features such as auto mediaheight detecting and anti-collision systems have always been essential, recent developments include the integration of AI vision into the workflow. This evolution means the machinery can now actively see the print bed, enabling capabilities where fixtures can be placed anywhere on the platform and the machine intelligently directs the print to the correct location without rigid templates.” For higher-volume workflows, CPS offers a belt scanner that uses AI to provide a continuous ‘scan-and-print’ solution. This has been developed to enable seamless, uninterrupted production rather than stopping to reset for each bed. Cylindrical printing solutions like the Dlican DLI-360 also come with Auto Shape Mapping tools, enabling the machine to scan and adapt to the specific contours of the object being printed to ensure accurate registration even on complex shapes. In Clutton’s opinion: “Basic automation is now the industry standard. Features like automatic media alignment pins and anti-collision systems are expected by buyers to protect their printheads and expedite job changeovers.” By contrast, he believes that authentic AI features like the aforementioned visual positioning camera are “presently regarded as high-value options for businesses with specific, complex production requirements.” Clutton regards AI as a tool that eases tedious tasks like setup processes, rather than completely replacing the operator. He gives the example of CPS’ AI Visual Positioning system, which allows operators to “randomly position multiple items, such as bottles or promotional gifts, on the bed, and the machine will handle the complex registration.” According to Clutton: “This flexibility allows the human team to focus on quality control and creative design instead of spending hours measuring distances or building physical jigs. It essentially safeguards the print process, enabling the operator to concentrate on the commercial outcome.” A number of further innovations in AI-powered print hardware will come in the near future, according to Clutton. Among these updates, he believes that “the dropand-print concept, currently used in our rotary options, will expand to larger formats.” He continues: “As features like the Auto Shape Mapping feature on our DLI-360 rotary printer mature, we expect systems that can autonomously detect print errors in real-time and adjust parameters without human intervention. This will make 24/7 unattended printing a practical reality for more businesses.” Knowledge is Key As McCombe earlier emphasised, while AI can help with many repetitive or time-consuming tasks, its use in more creative spheres can be more of a sticking point, with the jury still out on where it can align with human originality and imagination. In the view of Karis Copp, owner of B2B PR agency, KC Media: “Print and signage’s core value comes from creativity, craft, and connection with an audience, and the role humans play in that value isn’t replaceable.” Copp believes that AI is great at automating repetitive tasks, reducing time working on administrative tasks, and improving operational accuracy, but emphasises that: “This in turn gives people the time and capacity to focus on higher value activity such as strategic thinking, creative ideation, and nurturing customer relationships.” As Copp stresses: “When you view AI’s role through that lens, I think it actually makes human creativity more important, not less.” She also believes that human oversight is still critical in all systems, especially for something like signage which “is a physical medium with physical consequences.” Copp continues: “Our judgement as professionals is key to setting parameters for AI and is essential for making the final calls. Let’s not forget that AI can make mistakes and even hallucinate after all.” Asked what further AI innovations we will see in the future, Copp hypothesises: “AI will continue to move beyond individual tools into more systemic implementation, and more connected workflows.” She believes that while there is a great deal of buzz around AI in print and signage, as The 2025 ‘EU AI Act’ requires organisations in the European market to ensure that staff possess a sufficient level of ‘AI literacy’ Factoid ▲ Graphic Warehouse, formerly Matic Media, has developed a custom in-house AI chat platform called ‘Graphy’ ▼ Karis Copp [pictured] hopes to see more in-depth case studies on the long-term impact of AI on businesses 52 email: editor@signlink.co.uk Issue 263 - February | March 2026 AI IN SIGNAGE | JONATHAN PERT
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