Dry-Process Office Papermaking System: PaperLab Q-5000 & Q-40

This dry-process office papermaking system creates new paper from used paper using only a very small amount of water. The main unit is about 50% smaller in volume than the previous model. The fibers in Dry Fiber Paper are bound together using a natural binder, and the paper can be recycled repeatedly, improving environmental performance, says Epson.

The paper source processor enables confidential collection and processing of used paper at locations separate from the main unit, aiming to allow anyone to easily contribute to environmental efforts, adds Epson.

Reasons for Award

As the world's first dry-process office papermaking system, PaperLab minimises the amount of water needed to make a single sheet of paper. It also replaces petroleum-based binders with natural ones, enabling 100% repeated recycling of paper. The main unit is about half the size of previous models and the separate paper source processor allows flexible system operation. The level of environmental contribution is visualised to enhance the sense of achievement and participation. The design aims to have comprehensive approach to environmental contribution, both physical and mental, says Epson.

Home Projectors: EF-62B/N, EF-61G/R/W, EF-50G/R/T

These smart projectors with Google TV™3 OS aims to allow people to to easily enjoy VOD on a large screen anytime, anywhere. The Triple Core Engine with three LCD panels and a three-color light source delivers bright, vivid images, while Sound by Bose speakers provide immersive audio, aiming for the best viewing experience. Real-time automatic correction and compact size make them available to use anywhere. The simple, and wide range of color variations mean there is a perfect match for any interior, says Epson.

Reasons for Award

The design is simple and straightforward. The overall minimalism, with subtle details such as a slightly raised top for grip, aims to enhance its appeal beyond just being a box. The delicate CMF (Color, Material, Finish) composition aims to highlight the form and shadows, creating a refined presence, says Epson.

Home Projectors: EF-72, EF-71, EF-52, EF-51

These smart projectors with Google TV™3 OS aim to allow people to easily enjoy video-on-demand on a large screen. The Triple Core Engine with three LCD panels and a three-color light source aims to deliver bright, vivid images. Sound by Bose speakers aim to provide immersive audio for the best viewing experience, says Epson.

The adjustable stand, reminiscent of a stand light and real-time automatic correction aims to make it easy to enjoy large-screen images without installation hassles. The ambient light4 aims to create a rich atmosphere, turning viewing time into a special experience, adds Epson.

Reasons for Award

A company with experience in projector development has aimed to address the relationship between product and space, resulting in a home projector that hopes to naturally blend into living spaces as an interior product. The  gimbal structure and automatic correction mechanism aim to offer high operability and the pursuit of a rich visual experience is noteworthy. The reduction of light source components by 60% compared to previous models also aims to show consideration for environmental impact. These products earned high marks as they reflect an attempt by the company to suggest new possibilities for smart projectors, says Epson.

Inkjet Printers: EW-M678FT, EW-M638T

These high-capacity EcoTank printers are designed for small offices and homes. With the rise of remote work, there is increased interest in productivity, comfort and space design at home. The design aims to harmonise with home environments while ensuring ease of use, says Epson.

Compared to previous models, these printers aim to be more durable and environmentally conscious, adds Epson.

Reasons for Award

The first and second tiers of the modular design share the same base and additional modules can be stacked for different functions. The cover of the display model is completely folded but when opened, it functions as a paper cassette. The folding mechanism is designed and it becomes completely flat when folded, says Epson.

Large Format Printers: SureColor SC-F9550/SC-F9550H, SC-S9150

These industrial large-format printers are 300mm lower in height than previous models, aiming to reduce the sense of oppressiveness while improving image quality and productivity. The flat top can be used to check printed materials and features such as a lifter for heavy media and a large cover aiming to address easy maintenance, reduce psychological and physical burdens on operators for achieving wellness at work, says Epson.

Reasons for Award

Breaking away from the traditional large, heavy design of commercial printers, this wellness-focused design aims to emphasise user comfort. Lowering the height of the body reduces posture strain and ensures harmony with the surrounding space. Details such as quiet operation, control panel placement and highly visible lighting design aim to show consideration for reducing fatigue and stress. This presents a new image of business equipment that balances productivity and comfort, says Epson.

Inkjet Label Press: SurePress L-5034

This inkjet label press uses Epson's own water-based pigment ink. It prints at a speed of 13.5 meters per minute with 1200×1200 dpi resolution for medium-size lot adhesive label production, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, from food to industrial products. Improved maintenance reduces the daily workload, requires less manpower and makes for a safe, clean work environment, says Epson.

Reasons for Award

This product detects clogged nozzles in real time and compensates for them during printing, aiming to achieve high quality and reducing substrate waste. A newly developed reaction liquid made using an environmentally friendly biomass resin instantly reacts with ink droplets to maintain perfect roundness and sharp image quality. Automated head cleaning reduces user maintenance. This label press earned high marks for offering high productivity while providing print speed, image quality and quality stability comparable to those of mid-speed analog machines, concludes Epson.

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*Image courtesy of contributor