3D printing allows personalized beer and cocktails
The Ripple Maker PM enables companies to include foam-topped cocktails and beers in their 3D printing. The previous version of the technology, now rebranded as the Ripple Maker AM, could only print on coffee and lattes.
The company says its technology helps provide the premium experience popular among young consumers today. Unique beverages with personalized images and messages printed with a niche device gives a high-end feel to an otherwise ordinary drinking occasion.
The Ripple Maker is a Wi-Fi enabled countertop device that can print on one beverage at a time at about 10 seconds per drink. The updated technology accommodates the different heights of cocktail and beer glasses. It also improved on the stability of the base to reduce spillage as the glass is being lifted and lowered.
Two different inks are used in the printing, coffee extract ink for Ripple Maker AM and malt-based ink for Ripple Maker PM, that have no effect on the drink’s flavor.
Yossi Meshulam, CEO of Ripples, said “We started Ripples with the idea that a drink could serve as a communication platform. Thousands of customers are enjoying Ripple Maker AM on coffee and the new beer extract announced earlier this year draws tremendous industry attention.”
The technology is popular with brand marketing, allowing companies to promote their message or event in a unique way. The high-resolution images inspire consumers to snap photos of the beverage art and share them on social media, furthering a brand’s reach.
According to Ripples, the devices were “designed to help bars, restaurants, clubs, hospitality owners, foodservice providers and brands increase their engagement with their customers.”
Ripples is also launching Chatbot, which allows customers to digitally send a photo or selfie directly to a Ripple Maker at a local establishment through Facebook Messenger. It can then be printed on their drink when ordered.
