The development of new technology often involves more than the technology itself. Physical housings, substrates, finishes and manufacturing methods can change considerably as a product moves from early production into larger-scale manufacture. This was the case with Voxon’s Voxiebox, a 3D volumetric imaging device capable of creating real-time interactive imagery that can be viewed from 360 degrees. During the earlier stages of the product’s development, Superior Timber Coatings was involved in providing a coating system for the MDF enclosure housing the device.
While the Voxiebox represented highly advanced imaging technology, its early enclosure presented a more familiar manufacturing challenge. The MDF housing required a textured black matt finish that suited the visual character of the product, while also providing a durable surface for a finished device that would be handled, transported and demonstrated. With MDF, the coating approach needs to consider the substrate as a complete system rather than treating the topcoat in isolation, particularly where edges and exposed areas may be vulnerable to damage or chipping.
The selected approach used an Ilva 2K polyurethane system with its related undercoat, creating a compatible coating build from substrate preparation through to the final textured black matt finish. The undercoat provided the foundation for the finishing process, while the 2K polyurethane topcoat delivered the required appearance and a durable finished surface. For a manufactured enclosure, this was important not only for presentation but also for reducing the risk of the coating chipping during normal handling and use.
As Voxon expanded production, the enclosure evolved from coated MDF to plastic, reflecting a change in manufacturing method as the product scaled. This transition highlights a broader consideration for manufacturers and product designers: the most appropriate substrate and finishing approach can change throughout a product’s development. A coating system may be well suited to early or lower-volume manufacture, while larger production volumes can lead to different materials, processes and design requirements. In this case, the Ilva system provided a practical solution for the MDF stage of the Voxiebox’s development.
The early Voxon enclosures demonstrate how coating knowledge can support product development well beyond conventional furniture, cabinetry and joinery. Superior Timber Coatings works with manufacturers, designers, fabricators and other industry professionals to assess unusual substrates, specific finish requirements and non-standard production challenges. Where a product requires a particular appearance, improved resistance to handling or a practical coating system for an unconventional application, our technical team can help assess the requirement, test potential systems and identify an appropriate approach.
Have a unique coating challenge? Talk to our technical team about practical coating systems for custom products, MDF constructions, timber components and specialised manufacturing applications.
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