Media One is leading the industry by launching a line of antimicrobial fabrics, for dye-sublimation transfer, direct dye sub, UV & latex printing. The initial materials with the integrated antimicrobial coatings will be a polyester soft flag material and have been independently lab tested to kill over 98% of bacteria within 24-hours with these coatings, and only adds ¢5/sqft to the cost.

Our “Imperial” flag is a double-sided viewing flag (TXFM-AM). “Manhattan,” a triple-white product that is a woven suede fabric for dye sub transfer a backlit/display or hanging signage (TX3W-AM). “Doheny” is a 2-way stretch fabric which is ideal for SEG signage (TXSD-AM). “Malibu” is an airtight and watertight product ideal for tents and backlit display for UV/Latex or dye sub (TXIlluminate-AM). “Moonlight,” our most popular backlit/ frontlit product for direct dye sub or transfer (iTex-AM). “Sunset” which is a black-backed block out fabric for SEG (TXJBB-AM).

“As things begin to open back up for our customers they are looking for solutions to meet the new safety standards, and keep their customers safe in light of these unprecedented times,” said Craig Furst, CEO of AAA Flag & Banner, “I believe the demand for solutions like these will be sustained over
the next several years.”

“We’re responding to the COVID-19 crisis in a way to help our customers with solutions for retail, POP, medical, and event graphics to help prevent the spread of any microbial agents, per our independent lab testing. And while this has not been tested specifically with COVID-19, this coating is anti-bacterial & anti-microbial to 98% effectiveness,” said Jason Bartusick, CEO & Head of Product Development at Media One. “Working with our suppliers, we’ve identified key products that address numerous applications, and our customers have expressed widespread interest in them.”

These fabrics are available in 126” width, ordered by the yard, & cut to specific lengths for your project. They are also available for same-day shipment for orders received before 2pm Pacific time.

“We are definitely seeing customers looking for solutions to combat this pandemic, but also its raised awareness of all kinds of antimicrobial applications,” said Scott Powers, Vice President of Sales at D’Andrea Visual Communications, “As more of these solutions become available, we’ll be putting them in front of our customers to help them in this brave new world.”

More details about each fabric:
100% Polyester Double-sided Soft Flag – TXFM-AM “Imperial”
Weight:115g/sqm 3.24oz/sqyd Width: 61” – 126”
Application: Flags, Light weight banners
Features: 100% Polyester, Warp Knitted Fabric, 3 Bar Weave Latex, Dye Sub Transfer and Direct, UV, Latex

Triple White Woven Suede – TX3W-AM – “Manhattan”
Weight: 250g/sqm 7.5oz/sq.yd. Width: 63” – 126”
Application: Display System, Soft Signage, Backlit, Backdrop
Features: 100% Polyester Woven, Matte Finish suitable with Latex, Dye Sub Direct and Transfer printing processes.

2-Way Stretch Display – TXSD-AM – “Doheney”
Weight: 240g/sqm 7oz/sqyd Width: 63” – 126”
Application: Geometric, Popup, SEG, Tradeshow
Features: 85% Polyester, Warp Knitted Fabric, Good Opacity Latex, Dye Sub Transfer and Direct

100% polyester watertight/airtight display – TXIlluminate-AM – “Malibu”
Weight: 180g/sqm 5.2oz/sqyd Width: 102” – 126”
Application: LED light boxes, SEG, pop ups, Awnings & Tents
Features: 100% polyester bath-coated and one-side coated with resin Dye Sub Transfer and Dye Sub Direct, UV, Solvent

100% Knitted Matte Polyester Frontlit/Backlit – iTEX-AM – “Moonlight iTEX
Weight: 260g/sqm 7.6oz/sqyd Width: 63” – 126”
Application: Backlit/SEG Backlit
Features: 100% polyester knitting fabric, matte surface, Good Opacity Dye Sub Transfer and Dye Sub Direct, UV

100% Knitted Polyester Warp Black-Backed Blockout – TXJBB-AM – “Sunset”
Weight: 320g/sqm 9.37oz/sqyd -Width: 63” – 126”
Application: Indoor displays, booth systems, interior decoration
Features: Black Back warp Knitted, white surface, resin backed coating Dye Sub Transfer and Dye Sub Direct, UV, Latex

www.mediaoneusa.com

French RIP software specialist Caldera has announced the launch of Caldera WebShop. This is a new e-commerce offering that will enable its customers to go digital by creating a bespoke storefront, which can be integrated into a streamlined web-to-print solution. WebShop has been created in response to a digital transformation trend that has been accelerated and intensified as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Available now, the solution on offer is a low-cost bundled services product to enable digital printing, short runs and reshoring as businesses move to a new way of working.

The driving force behind the WebShop initiative is to enable Caldera users to run their businesses with a reduced level of social interaction. Lockdown and social distancing has resulted in a surge in demand for online services, and being able to fulfil this demand will be critical for businesses to thrive, particularly for textile and direct-to-garment printers.

According to Caldera’s VP Marketing, Operations and IT, Sébastien Hanssens, “Our intention is to help our customers with their digital transformation by enabling them to build effective storefronts for web-to-print operations. Our web-to-print services team will guide them through setting up the components they need, including storefronts, prepress, production and logistics.”

The tangible benefit of Caldera WebShop is that it provides an e-commerce platform that has been specifically developed for wide-format printing businesses. It’s a comprehensive solution that allows users to build their storefront, take and fulfil orders and build their online business via one integrated package. “We felt it was important for printers to be able to deliver a user-friendly buyer experience,” says Hanssens. “The costly upfront processes of providing clear product information and dealing with pricing and quotes have been streamlined. WebShop makes it easy to respond to high volumes of smaller orders by automating the path between storefront and production.”

The package includes a wide range of complementary features that allows users to shape their digital transformation in a way that suits their business. Key among these are the customisable online product catalogues, graphic templates and premium themes for personalised storefronts. Users can further tailor the WebShop to their needs by creating their own categories within the customer database management suite, as well as within the sales portal, from where orders, invoices and shipping are managed. WebShop comes with an advanced dashboard that allow the sales and production teams to track orders and jobs as they happen, as well as a range of reporting options which can include user-specified customer information.

“Caldera has always put the user experience at the heart of new business developments,” explains Hanssens. “With this latest innovation, we’re now focusing on helping our customers prioritise the user experience of their own customers, as they respond to the demands that are emerging in the post-COVID business world. Caldera WebShop takes web-to-print functionality to a new level, in keeping with this changed way of working.”

www.caldera.com

PURE ZONE® PROTECTION FILMS ARE ACTIVE AND FIGHT CORONAVIRUSES 

HEXIS Group announce that their patented PURE ZONE® technology, developed and marketed since 2013, is active in combating the viral load of coronaviruses. The characteristics of PURE ZONE® antimicrobial protective films reduce coronavirus viraemia by 95% after a contact of 15 minutes, and nearly 99.9% after a contact of one hour (compared to an untreated membrane).

PURE ZONE® PROTECTS 24/7 

HEXIS antimicrobial PURE ZONE® films provide 24-hour preventive protection against bacteria and coronaviruses. Powerful and safe, if in contact with the skin. "Reactive silver ions, contained in PURE ZONE® films, will quickly inhibit bacteria and coronaviruses, preventing their spread between two disinfection protocols," says Christophe BAUDRION Director of the HEXIS R&D laboratory department. 

AESTHETIC PROTECTION EVERYWHERE - EVERY MOMENT 

HEXIS PURE ZONE® antimicrobial products have recently passed a certification that proves their efficiency against coronaviruses. "This additional benefit will not lead to a price increase. It's a question of ethics, it reinforces our long-standing commitment towards our customers related to this product range," says Christophe INIGO, Deputy Sales Director. 

Our customers apply our PURE ZONE films® since many years on daily-life contact surfaces. "Daily or casual uses are protected. From door handles to digicodes, not forgetting the touch screens of a large fast food chain, or reception desk of your favorite Sushi Shop, from the hospital recovery room to theme parks, the applications opportunities of our PURE ZONE® protection films are endless" reminds Sébastien MACHU, HEXIS France Sales Director.

"And why not combine the useful with fun!" stresses Marine GUELAIA, HEXIS Decoration Manager. Transparent films from the PURE ZONE® range come in matte, glossy, with a textured wooden or leather effect or even non-adhesive. Indeed, our PRZ150 (for medical sector-only) and PURE COVER products are non-adhesive.

Caroline MATEU, Chairman of the Board of Directors, reaffirms the commitments of HEXIS Group: "Improving the well-being and health of each of our employees, through our CSR policy, is a fundamental value for HEXIS. We are concerned by the international health crisis, in our families, in our workshops, in our customers premises. Therefore, manufacturing products that make everyone feel better on a daily basis is a recognition for all our teams. 

The release of Apogee v12 marks another step in the automation of print production. The latest version of Agfa’s print production hub introduces new impositioning and approval functionalities, and adds a brand new browser-based GUI for sales reps to control over print production.

Solid and efficient workflow software, adapted to changing market requirements, is a high-value asset for printers. New functionalities in Agfa’s Apogee v12 workflow solution deliver additional cost and time savings through increased automation, flexibility and quality. Additionally, enhanced customer interaction options in the software will help retain existing print buyers or attract new business.

Apogee Impose

The way pages are imposed impacts production cost significantly. However, print shops’ knowledge of imposition is slowly but surely declining. That is why Apogee continues to focus on automated solutions, taking into account printers’ equipment as well as the expected end products. The new Cut ‘n Assemble function is an example of this: Multiple fold sheets can now be placed on one press sheet and finished simultaneously. This leads to higher efficiency in the finishing department and less paper waste.

Web printers will also welcome the benefits of new automation features such as partial web placement or combining page adjustments like bottling, scaling and offsets.

Other improvements in impositioning, ensuring higher efficiency and print quality, are customised and automated imposition reports, the easy reuse of complex impositions, bottling support and paper stretch compensation.

Apogee WebApproval

The online Apogee WebApproval portal that lets print buyers upload files and approve pages, now includes a multi-tenant solution for print buyers. As printers get acquired by others or close their press operations, it can be essential to keep their valuable company name and brand identity alive. Using the multi-tenant print buyer solution, a printing company can create several different branded setups, each for a specific set of print buyers. This dedicated user experience delivers higher customer satisfaction and retention.

Other new functionalities aimed at a better print buyer relation in WebApproval include extended logging, which saves time and money by avoiding discussions or claims; the possibility to quickly compare different versions of files, highlighting version-specific elements; and improved support on handling remarks and errors, so that no files can get approved when they really shouldn’t.

Supporting the Apogee Cloud: Apogee WebFlow

To make the use of Apogee Cloud even easier, Agfa developed a new browser-based user interface called WebFlow, which gives customer service representatives (CSRs) control over print production. In the blink of an eye, they get a full overview of all jobs and their status, and will know whether all pages are available, or if some still need to be approved. They can create, pause or modify jobs, start hardcopy proofing, initiate plate making etc.

Swedish printing group Taberg Media Group is an avid user of WebFlow:

“In these corona times, we are very happy that Apogee enables us to work from home. Sales colleagues can send jobs to our workflows from their kitchen table. Ten minutes later, our CTP lines are outputting plates!”, says Magnus Sandström, Digital Workflow Manager at TMG.

Customised automation or ATP

As of the early days of Apogee, its user interface offered several ways to automate multiple aspects of production. Automatic job archival/deletion, page placement based on naming conventions, and file revision handling are but a few examples. In v12, automation gets lifted to the next level by the Automate Task Process (or ATP). Incoming files get analyzed on content and meta data, and the gathered information subsequently defines specific actions, e.g. file renaming, routing files to offset for high copy count work, routing to B&W digital print engines… The ATP rules are set by the user or administrator, using the Apogee user interface. This means printers don’t need a degree in IT to define company- or product-specific automation rules. In case they have programming skills, however, they can write their own scripts and have Apogee run it for extended automation.

Cloud-based subscription

The covid-19 crisis has made it clearer than ever that the established software buying model is a thing of the past. As a result, Agfa is evaluating its current subscription offering with the intention to design a fair model that varies according to the size of a print shop. As such, payments no longer depend on functionality, but on the amount of processed data, which can vary significantly between users as well as time frames (e.g. high season versus holidays).

StoreFront 5.6

In sync with Apogee v12, Agfa also releases an update of its web-to-print software StoreFront. Version 5.6 offers additional functionality for approvals. First, there is a new softproof sign-off option for customisable products and variable data printing, which is particularly useful to avoid discussions with print buyers. Secondly, the multi-step approval option enables the sequential approval of print files by multiple stakeholders, benefitting mainly heavy-duty users or users that need to build in e.g. legal checks. In addition, StoreFront 5.6 saves its users time thanks to the autofill option for customisable products.

Version 12 of Apogee will be available as of October 2020.

French printing software company Caldera has announced the release of new EFI drivers for Version 13.1. These new drivers expand their  software’s long list of supported peripherals, answer clients’ needs and further enhance their user experience.

The new drivers for EFI Vutek 3r, 5r, D3r, D5r and Pro 32r families allow users to enable compression on large output files (for example, files larger than 25 metres).

This feature helps reducing the amount of time necessary to transfer the files to the EFI controller. As a result, users owning EFI printers and CalderaRIP V13.1 can benefit from a better throughput, process more jobs and scale up their entire production.

Enhanced test charts, Crystal Screens for flexo, and white ink optimisation for flexible packaging are just some of the innovative features included in the newest release of the multiple award-winning Print Control Wizard software from Esko.

The global supplier of integrated hardware and software solutions for the print and packaging sectors has unveiled its latest generation of the state-of-the-art software, Print Control Wizard 20.0.

“Print Control Wizard was developed in response to industry calls to simplify the implementation of screens and dot gain curves, and we wanted to build on our immediate success with this new version,” said Robert Bruce, RIP & Screening Product Manager with Esko. “That’s why we’ve added integrated colour management tools and introduced a new implementation process. For example, while global standards call for three press trials to implement a flexo project, from optimisation with single screen testing, through characterisation with colour management and fingerprint for dot gain, Print Control Wizard 20.0 users can now go straight to fingerprinting. This offers a significant reduction in cost and therefore press time too.”

Released this week, Print Control Wizard 20.0 boasts a raft of exciting new efficiency-driving features, including:

• Improved test chart layout - the number of press trials required to create screens and curves to implement flexo projects has been reduced from two to one, bringing faster analysis of a new print condition and significant efficiency gains. The wizard now includes a 4-colour test chart and allows users to produce fingerprint charts, while a fast scan mode for minimum dot calibration reduces the time spent on each job.
• Improvements to award-winning, wizard-style interface – the new Color Engine Pilot interface not only features a new screens and curves view but also enables users to access all Esko screening assets in one application.
• Platemaking wizard – a central storage location for Esko CDI set up. This new tool uses built-in guides to help the user set up their CDI plate imager ensuring optimal performance in the quickest time.
• Reporting – new fully-automated and customisable fingerprint reports are now available with just one touch of a button.
• New Crystal screens for UV Flexo – using the same process-driven user interface for both flexible packaging and UV Flexo, this brand new module delivers simplified Print Control Wizard functionality and custom screens for UV Flexo, with support for both Pixel+ and non-Pixel+ CDIs.
• White Ink optimization for flexible packaging - boosting performance of the most common (and most costly) ink used in flexible packaging. With Print Control Wizard 20.0, the opacity, mottle and weight of white ink is controlled and optimised automatically, improving print quality, enhancing image reproduction and reducing ink consumption costs.
• Originally released only last year, Print Control Wizard was specifically designed to improve the flexo plate making process and flexographic print quality via Crystal Screens. It offers a simplified, standardized approach to take process parameters like ink, printing press, substrate and anilox into consideration for screen and curve creation, outputting a set of Crystal Screens and curves used for plate exposure on a CDI Crystal XPS, resulting in the most optimal flexo print quality.

“Our goal was to provide flexographic experts with the tools to standardise and simplify screen and curve creation, enabling them to achieve the best quality results without additional steps and checks being added to the process,” he said. “After Print Control Wizard was honoured with a number of top industry awards, we have been working tirelessly to develop these new enhancements. We are delighted to now release this new version as we continue supporting the work of print and packaging specialists across the sector.”

Print Control Wizard 20.0 is just one of a host of new innovative features and updates Esko has unveiled as part of its integrated software portfolio, Esko Software 20. The significant new developments bring even more innovation and functionality to the Esko suite of best-selling software solutions as part of its continuing drive to deliver operational efficiency improvements to the packaging value chain in tandem with outstanding value to customers. Available from 22 June 2020 onwards – and free to Esko Software Care Plan customers – the latest software release incorporates solutions such as ArtiosCAD 20, Automation Engine 20, Studio 20 and efficiency-driving updates to Share & Approve.

Anyone wishing to learn more about Print Control Wizard 20.0 can do so by visiting the new Esko Innovation Hub (www.innovation.esko.com) which has been designed to provide users with a unique insight to the Esko Software 20 portfolio of innovations in a virtual environment. Users can navigate around the latest integrated hardware and software solutions from Esko, in their own time, accessing insights and technical information, as well as learn new ways to boost business productivity, efficiency and profitability.

GMG, a provider of colour management solutions for packaging and industrial printing, announced it has signed an agreement with HP to become an HP PageWide corrugated workflow partner. GMG’s holistic corrugated workflow solution for the HP One Package Suite will enable converters to make a smooth transition into digital printing.

GMG color management software is used to help print providers do just that: offer a high degree of colour predictability, whether for print production of complex packaging, wide format jobs, or for colour proofing. GMG delivers solutions for the standardisation and simplification of colour management workflows to achieve consistent colours on all media and in any print process.

“We are excited to collaborate with HP and offer GMG color management products to support the HP One Package Workflow Suite,” says Darrian Young, Global Partnership Manager. “We believe that we can help those who work with HP corrugated presses by providing a way to improve the colour accuracy for their customers.”

“HP PageWide Corrugated Presses are known for their offset print quality, using true water-based inks. Both GMG and HP see a huge value of this alliance that will help PageWide customers getting even higher colour accuracy while maintaining consistency across devices, and complying with industry colour standards for demanding Brands,” said Ran Lev, workflow solutions manager, HP PageWide Industrial, HP Inc.

For more information, please visit https://www8.hp.com/us/en/commercial-printers/pagewide-industrial/corrugated-presses.html, or www.gmgcolor.com. 

Roland DG Corporation, a leading manufacturer of wide format inkjet printers and printer cutters, today announced that it has released the latest version of its VersaWorks 6 RIP software for inkjet printers and initiated a free upgrade service for customers using compatible models.

Included with Roland DG’s inkjet printers and printer cutters, VersaWorks 6 RIP & Print Management Software is designed to maximise the characteristics of printer, ink and media to enable high-quality printing and improved efficiency for print production. The latest version includes important new features, such as a “Job Assistant” function that allows customers to automatically add graphic contour cut lines in VersaWorks 6 without returning to the design software. The new “True Rich Color” print setting takes full advantage of the colour reproduction capabilities of both printer and ink to create stunning graphics with vibrant colour combined with neutral greys, smooth gradations, and natural skin tones. In addition, VersaWorks 6 is equipped with several new functions that improve the quality and efficiency of output operations, including compatibility with Barbieri's latest spectrophotometer tools for colour management. 

Kevin Shigenoya, Vice President, Digital Printing Business Division, said, "By providing our users with the latest version of VersaWorks 6, we believe that we can strongly support our customers' printing businesses in terms of both quality and efficiency. In addition to the printer itself, we will support our customers' creativity by offering a total solution that includes software and application assistance." 

The printer models compatible with the latest version of VersaWorks 6 are listed below: 

Eco- Solvent Printers and Printer Cutters

• BN-20
• EJ-640
• RF-640
• SG2-640/540/300
• SG-540/300
• SP-540i/300i
• VF2-640
• VG2-640/540
• VG-640/540
• VS-640i/540i/300i
• XR-640
• XF-640

UV Printers and Printer Cutters 

• LEC2-300
• LEC-540/330
• LEF-12/12i
• LEF-300/200/20
• LEF2-300D/300/200
• LEJ-640

Dye Sublimation Printer 

• RT-640*

* ErgoSoft Roland DG Edition users are excluded from the upgrade.

The latest VersaWorks update has been released with the new TrueVIS VF2-640 printer and recently-released TR2-GR ink.

To find out more about VersaWorks 6 and download the latest version, go to our website.

The new version has GMG OpenColor on board for the first time and is optimised for different applications – notably: Multicolor

GMG ColorServer is now addressing an even broader user base and, therefore relies on three solutions for different areas of the graphic arts industry: GMG ColorServer Conventional, GMG ColorServer Digital and GMG ColorServer Multicolor.

“We basically work very closely with our clients,” says Peter Schoeffler, responsible Product Manager at GMG. “Customer feedback has shown that we can support users with different challenges much better with three tailor-made solutions. From now on, we are targeting the following market segments: conventional printing, digital printing with both CMYK and Multicolor presses, and we are addressing customers who print cross-process using spot colours – primarily from the packaging industry."

All three solutions contain the award-winning profiling technology GMG OpenColor, which is both simple and intuitive to use – even more so with GMG SmartProfiler. Custom profiles are easily created to allow for unusual paper tones or adapting to printing processes such as flexo print. Another advantage is the central colour database. The information stored here is not only used for data preparation, it can also be called up by GMG ColorProof.

GMG ColorServer delivers automation and consistent results for all three segments.

GMG ColorServer Conventional primarily ensures the efficient handling of third-party data – both in commercial printing and in CMYK packaging printing. Different input data are converted to any desired industry standard using the superior MX technology via a hot folder. As an integrated technology, GMG OpenColor also enables conversion to accommodate paper types that are not covered by common industry- or individual house standards. The functionality of GMG InkOptimizer is also part of the solution – saving ink and stabilising the print process.

GMG ColorServer Digital is specifically aimed at customers with digital four-colour presses. Large-format users and customers who work in the low-volume packaging sector, in commercial digital- or in personalised printing are addressed here. With the seamlessly integrated GMG SmartProfiler, digital printing machines can now be fingerprinted very easily. And thanks to the direct connection to GMG OpenColor, users benefit from the patented and award-winning profiling technology based on spectral measurement data.

GMG ColorServer Multicolor primarily addresses users in the packaging industry. Digital printing is becoming increasingly important here. Instead of using spot colors, brand colors must now be displayed with a fixed ink set. "To achieve consistent results across all processes – digital and conventional – there is no way around GMG ColorServer Multicolor," explains Peter Schoeffler. “Jobs can now print on any press available, delivering welcome flexibility in the pressroom. And Multicolor creates opportunities: achieving increased vibrancy in images or accurately matching brand colors.” In addition to qualitative aspects, GMG also underlines the economic benefits of the new generation GMG ColorServer. GMG promises to contribute significantly to increase the capacity of digital printing presses with GMG ColorServer and to define the future of the entire industry with Multicolor.

Further information on GMG ColorServer can be found at www.gmgcolor.com/products/colorserver 

INX International Ink, with Sakata INX, have released Genesis GS washable label inks. In March, the ink was recognised by the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) for meeting or exceeding the group’s strict testing protocol for washable and recyclable PET shrink sleeve applications.


Genesis GS meets the PET-CG-02 Critical Guidance Protocol established by APR. It maintains properties in accordance with APR guidelines required for shrink sleeve applications and exhibits bleed resistance in caustic bath solutions. Since the ink is separated from the substrate and removed from the label material during the bath, a complete recyclable package is a viable option.


Genesis GS can also be used for floatable roll-fed OPP labels so a customer can print multiple label types with one ink system. Floatable applications require the ink to remain on the substrate after exposure to the caustic bath solution. The ink is capable of printing at high press speeds, displays fast drying capabilities at low temperatures and adheres well to several grades of flexible films.


‘We are very pleased with the development of Genesis GS and making it a must-have solution for label providers,’ said Mark Hill, senior vice president R&D for INX. ‘The environmental benefits are superb. With the ink cleanly removed from the PET label or floatable with OPP labels, it allows clear bottles to be made through the circular reuse of recovered materials.’


Hill said that INX’s R&D staff was able to troubleshoot a PET concern that arose during the testing process.


‘Most shrink sleeve bottles are made of PETG resin, which has a lower melting point than PET bottle flake,’ he explained. ‘Given that, the film can turn into what is essentially a glue, clumping the PET bottle flakes and making the PET harder to utilise. Additionally, inks from PETG shrink sleeves can discolour the clear bottle flakes. Our new innovations address that issue.’


APR on March 19 informed INX that all colours with and without white backing, and with inside overprint varnish on Bonpet BR1 crystalisable film, met or exceeded APR’s PET-CG-02 Critical Guidance Protocol for Clear PET Articles with Labels and Closures. The recognition was based on the technical recyclability of the decorated label innovation with PET bottles and applies only to the decorated sleeve labels.


The critical guidance protocol is a multi-industry consensus of key issues related to the recycling of post-consumer PET bottles. It directs innovators to conduct specific testing per established procedures, and the recognition is based on the innovation either meeting or exceeding the most challenging and strictest guidance criteria.

Esko, a global developer of integrated hardware and software solutions for the packaging and label markets, has announced a new collaboration with Global Inkjet Systems (‘GIS’) to combine its workflow and brand colour management expertise with the inkjet expertise of GIS.

Esko has extensive experience in digital print development having supplied a digital front end (DFE) turnkey solution, including brand colour management and RIPing, for more than ten years to several leading press manufacturers. GIS is a market leader in the supply of data path electronics, ink delivery systems and print control software, alongside capability in scanning and direct to shape inkjet print systems.

By combining the DFE and workflow automation expertise of Esko with the inkjet electronics and Atlas® software capabilities of GIS, the two companies can together offer a complete solution from print job creation to the optimisation of print quality through precise printhead control.

Chuck Ravetto, VP/GM Suppliers Business of Esko, comments: “We know that digital press manufacturers are seeking to reduce development times of their presses. By using this integrated solution resulting from our partnership with GIS, they will get innovations to market faster. At the same time, packaging converters investing in digital press capacity will benefit by having more standardised and robust on press solutions for workflow, colour management and device compensation.”

Ravetto continues: “Whether for short run label production, fast turnaround of promotional packaging work or efficiently handling a spike in demand, meeting the delivery deadline as expected by the print buyer is of paramount importance to business success. The combined capabilities of Esko and GIS create a level of integration that extends beyond the digital press and reduces complexity for everyone involved, driving efficiency and productivity when its needed most.”

Nick Geddes, Managing Director of GIS, added: “Combining the packaging management, prepress automation and DFE expertise of Esko with the industrial inkjet capabilities of GIS creates a unique ecosystem for packaging and label digital printing, not seen elsewhere. Our high speed single pass inkjet systems, offering very fast screening technologies and closed loop image quality control for missing nozzle compensation and printhead density correction, fit seamlessly into the Esko workflow creating a powerful advantage for the digital print sector.”

To find out more, please visit www.esko.com

Onyx Graphics, Inc., has announced global availability of ONYX TruFit, the company’s new shape-based nesting software. Using artificial intelligence to search millions of combinations for the most precise nests and media utilisation, ONYX TruFit saves valuable print production time and reduces media usage up to 50%. Designed to work seamlessly across both Windows and Mac OS platforms and with any RIP solution on the market, ONYX TruFit brings speed and simplicity to even the most complex nested layouts.


“Print Service Providers are under increasing pressure to produce more with less, and media usage carries a major cost with every print job,” said Matt Crawford, Director of Product Marketing at Onyx Graphics. “This simple-to-use tool optimises media utilisation up to 50%, saving money on every job while improving output capacity in just seconds.”


ONYX TruFit introduces new intuitive tools to save time, improve existing workflow efficiencies, and maximise media utilisation. Automatic cut-path and tool type recognition creates a seamless workflow from design file to print file; single-click image tracing and double-sided printing drastically reduce file preparation time before submitting jobs to the RIP-Queue, and ONYX hot folders provide fully automated print-and-cut workflows. Coupled with keeping original file properties unchanged for named colours, transparencies and colour management, ONYX TruFit is built for any wide-format print environment.


Highlights of ONYX TruFit include:
• Artificial intelligence engine for optimal shape-based nests, reducing media waste up to 50%
• Real-time media savings data during nest creation
• Single-click image tracing to reduce file preparation time
• Double-sided printing generated instantly for decals, stickers and other print applications
• Automatic cut-path and tool type recognition to work seamlessly from design file to print file
• Multi-page PDF edit capabilities to eliminate excess white space
• Automated workflows using ONYX hot folders
• Unchanged original file properties to maintain consistency between applications
• Output PDFs for any RIP solution available today saving costly software changes
• Open architecture to work cross-platform on Windows or Mac OS Onyx Graphics, Inc. announces global launch of ONYX TruFit software page 2


Free educational webinars In consideration of recent news surrounding international trade shows being postponed, Onyx Graphics is offering free educational webinars to see ONYX TruFit in action. In addition, 30-day trial licenses are being offered free.


www.onyxgfx.com

Ricoh, a leading provider of smart workplace technology, has launched the availability of its Always Current Technology v1.1 platform in Australia enabling organisations to extend the capabilities of their Ricoh devices in line with their own business growth and add new feature capabilities to keep up with changing productivity demands. 
 
Ricoh customers can activate new desired features, through automatic remote firmware updates, and download applications available on demand as well as feature upgrades directly to their device as they become available, giving users greater flexibility and allowing them to work with more agility.
 
At the same time, digital workplaces can scale their capabilities based on evolving needs, while also keeping security features and software up to date while future proofing their MFD investment.
 
Key features include:
 

• Functionality that increases over time.  Ricoh device capabilities can change as your business conditions vary. If users need access to the latest functions for their devices, they can simply activate desired features, download applications and upgrades as they are required.  New capabilities can be easily and seamlessly added to keep up with changing productivity demands.

 

• Scalable Intelligence.  Device capabilities can grow in line with business requirements. The platform allows users to install the latest features and interface enhancements as they become available.  For example, future Always Current Technology premium upgrades will include tools to enhance accessibility and streamline ease-of-use.

 
Enhancements released with Ricoh’s Always Current Technology v1.1 include a new user interface menu, new features added to smart copy function and new features added to fax settings. Additionally, users can future-proof their investment by applying updates easily, with minimal downtime and disruption empowering employees to work faster, smarter and more securely.
 
Peter Georghiou, Senior Product Manager, Ricoh Australia, said, “Ricoh Always Current Technology enables organisations to reap the benefits of using a platform that allows users to install the latest features and enhancements, while helping keep their device capabilities current and ready to meet changing business needs.  Decision makers can invest with confidence in Ricoh technology, knowing that its functionality and value will grow over time.  At the same time, we look forward to working with Australian businesses to help keep their device capabilities current and ready to meet their evolving digital workplace innovation requirements.”
 
For further information, please visit: https://www.ricoh.com.au/solution/dynamic-workplace-intelligence/ricoh-always-current-technology

Continuing to support the alleviation of global shortage of medical and consumer personal protective equipment (PPE), Gerber Technology is now empowering manufacturers to accelerate PPE production by offering a PPE Retooling Package. The package includes an end-to-end suite of software and a specially configured PPE Edition Gerber Paragon cutter with optimised cutting parameters that allow manufacturers to produce up to 150,000 medical gowns and 6 million non-medical masks per week. The package also includes PPE patterns, tech packs, and a regulatory consulting package for rapid conversion of conventional sewn goods production to PPE. The Gerber PPE Retooling Package will help manufacturers seamlessly convert their supply chain allowing them to quickly, efficiently, and sustainably manufacture quality PPE.

“We are dedicated to making our customers successful in every way possible as they navigate through these unprecedented times, to save lives and jobs,” said Leonard Marano, Vice President of Product Management & Marketing for Automation Solutions at Gerber Technology. “Since PPE materials are technical and complicated to work with, we want to ensure our customers have everything they need to make their transition to PPE production as smooth, efficient, and fast as possible.”

Materials used for PPE are complex and often require several materials to be layered together to meet regulations and compliance. In order for manufacturers to successfully transition to efficient PPE production at scale, they will need to make significant changes to the setup of their workflow. The Gerber PPE Retooling Package will simplify the transition through a pre-packaged set of options including vacuum regulation and cutting parameters, essential spare parts, 2D/3D CAD and PLM software to ensure accuracy and efficiency, and support from Gerber’s knowledgeable experts. By leveraging the Gerber consulting package, retooling your production can take less than one week and results in less wasted material than ‘learning by doing’.

“Since March, we have helped over 1,200 companies worldwide optimise their supply chains for PPE production by providing production-ready patterns and files, sharing best practices and connecting our global network of manufacturers and suppliers,” said Michelle Steenvoorden, Vice President, Professional Services and Technical Lead on Gerber’s PPE Task Force. “We know exactly what it takes to produce high-quality, sustainable products that are effective, and help companies retool as quickly as possible for maximum impact.”

People all around the world are currently at high risk of contracting COVID-19 due to the shortage of PPE for both medical and consumer use. Earlier this year, Gerber created the PPE Task Force and Manufacturer Matchmaking Program which is helping manufacturers produce 150+ million masks and several million gowns per week, saving hundreds of millions of lives and securing countless jobs around the world. The Gerber PPE Retooling Package will help further increase manufacturing capacity.

Global Graphics Software announces today a new class of print software for the next generation of faster, wider, high-resolution digital presses.

Direct is a new graphics pipeline that sends data directly to the printhead electronics instead of writing to disk, and so reduces image processing times significantly, handles large volumes of data with ease, and accelerates the time to print.

“Direct is a new way of looking at things,” says Eric Worrall, Global Graphics Software’s VP of product management. “Rather than expecting print service providers and press manufacturers to make do with a workflow that may have driven a flexo or a litho press which is so often the case, Direct is created from the ground up specifically for the digital world and is compatible with any digital press. We started with the toughest requirements for data and image quality because once you’ve cracked that problem, you can scale back from there for less demanding environments with the appropriate choice of hardware.”

Industry data rates are accelerating: press resolutions are moving from 600dpi to 1200dpi, a quadrupling of data; speeds are increasing to up to one thousand feet per minute/300 meters per minute; presses can be up to 13 feet /4 meters wide; and extended gamut inks use many more ink channels than previously with multi-level screening up to 7 drop sizes on inkjet presses.

A Direct workflow protects the investment in a press made by the print service provider and the press manufacturer by building in the flexibility needed to future-proof print production at the outset. This means that the capability of a press is not limited as data rates increase and the press does need to be reengineered to meet future requirements, for instance transitioning from a static to a fully variable workflow.

Fully integrated pipeline

Direct integrates together several technologies from Global Graphics Software. Jobs entering the workflow are streamlined to optimise their processing through the RIP with innovative new software called Streamline Direct™. Files are RIPped by Harlequin Direct™, using the fastest RIP engine in the world, or screened by the award-winning ScreenPro Direct™ with PrintFlat™ to achieve the optimal quality at speed. Direct can be tightly integrated with printhead drive electronics and software from Global Graphics subsidiary Meteor Inkjet, or with other common drive electronics from other vendors.

Global Graphics Software has developed solutions for some of the hardest engineering tasks in digital printing by partnering with its OEM customer base. Working through challenges set by some of the industry’s leading brands has led to the development of Direct.

“When aiming for the highest possible image pipeline speed,” continues Worrall, “it’s important to be able to integrate with tight knowledge and access to each component, to squeeze out every bit of performance. You can only do that if you have control and access to all components. Global Graphics Software is uniquely placed in the market as we have access to every line of code for every component; we don’t need to request features and knowledge from any third-party suppliers.”

Advantages for print service providers and press manufacturers

Direct brings print service providers the benefits of increased processing speeds and enhanced image quality. Productivity is higher, even on complex jobs with large amounts of variable data, because the time to RIP and screen data is significantly reduced.

Direct has been designed to be part of a fully automated print solution, supporting Industry 4.0 telematics and integration with PLCs and MIS systems, where feedback from the print line such as a quality inspection system, can help automatically correct for any issues as they occur.

For press vendors Direct removes the software development effort from their in-house teams so that they can get their presses to market more quickly. Because Direct has been engineered to meet the demands of fully variable data from the outset, it gives manufacturers the option to use lower performance PC hardware for less demanding (static or mixed data) jobs. This is achieved by RIPping on the fly and streaming image data in memory directly to the printer electronics so there is no need to waste the time to RIP ahead to disk and no need for huge image stores holding vast amounts of data.

Platform support

Harlequin Direct and ScreenPro Direct are cross platform, supporting Windows and Linux and optimised for Intel i9, Xeon and AMD Ryzen Threadripper CPUs. Both can be used with Meteor NozzleFix™ technology. Harlequin Direct and ScreenPro Direct can also be used with Meteor Mixed Mode to reduce the hardware costs for markets that mix static and variable data (Zoned Variable Data).

www.globalgraphics.com

Trotec Laser is excited to announce that we will be setting new standards with our new Software Generation. 

The Beta version of the software includes the chance to be one of the first people using the new software with its revolutionary workflow. The time taken between an idea becoming a finished product will be half of what it is currently. 

Jobs can be prepared anytime from anywhere.  And last but not least: anybody can use the laser - you don't have to be an expert because of its intuitive workflow.

You don't need to be a Trotec laser user to test our new software. Simply fill in the form and we will let you know if you have been chosen to test it. 

Sign up here. 

UV light under the conditions known to kill such viruses is also known to cause severe skin burns, skin cancer, and eye damage.

The International Ultraviolet Association (IUVA) and RadTech North America – educational and advocacy organisations consisting of UV equipment vendors, scientists, engineers, consultants, and members of the medical profession – would like to inform the public that there are no protocols to advise or to permit the safe use of UV light directly on the human body at the wavelengths and exposures proven to efficiently kill viruses such as SARS-CoV-2. 

UV light under the conditions known to kill such viruses is also known to cause severe skin burns, skin cancer, and eye damage. 

The organisations strongly recommend that anyone using UV light to disinfect medical equipment, surfaces, or air in the context of COVID-19, applications that are supported by sound scientific evidence, follow all recommended health and safety precautions and to avoid direct exposure of the body to the UV light.

Additional Information on UV Technology for Disinfection

The ultraviolet spectrum is a band of electromagnetic radiation at higher energies than visible light, split into four major categories: UV-A (400 – 315 nm), UV-B (315 – 280 nm), UV-C (280 – 200 nm), and vacuum-UV (VUV, 100 – 200 nm). 

UV-A and UV-B are present in sunlight at the earth’s surface; these parts of the ultraviolet spectrum are common causes of sunburn and, with longer-term exposure, melanoma. 
 
The risks of human exposure to UV-A and UV-B are well known. Solar UV may be used for disinfection purposes; exposures in the order of several hours to days might be effective at treating surfaces and water. Artificial sources of UV-A and UV-B are not commonly used for disinfection.

UV-C has been used for disinfection for over a century, with applications in water treatment, air systems, and surfaces. 

The use of UV-C as a disinfectant is supported by decades of scientific research. UV-C radiation is absorbed by DNA and RNA (the genetic code for all lifeforms), changing its structure. This damage inhibits the ability of the affected cells to reproduce, meaning that they cannot infect and are no longer dangerous. 

Whereas the UV exposure required to inactivate different microorganisms varies, though there are no known microorganisms that are immune to this treatment and it is regularly used against bacteria, viruses, and protozoa.

In the same way that UV-C can inactivate bacteria and viruses, it can be damaging to human cells too, since our cells also contain DNA. This exposure can cause skin irritation, damage to the cornea, and cell mutations leading to cancer. 

Exposure to UV-C radiation is regulated globally, with a common agreement on the risk to human health and safe exposure levels. These regulations and standards set limits on allowable exposure, though in all cases it is recommended to avoid UV exposure where possible.

• In summary: UV-C irradiation of the skin, eyes, or any body part should be avoided wherever possible;
• Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling un-shielded UV-C radiation sources (e.g. long-sleeved clothing, gloves, and a UV-opaque face shield);
• Always use UV-C devices in accordance with the manufacturer’s operating instructions to ensure safe operation, and within appropriate enclosures where light leakage has been controlled, and where the risks have been properly managed.

Meteor Inkjet Ltd takes digital printing of labels, packaging and books to a new level with the launch of eLab Pro, a scalable industrial inkjet RIP solution in a complete, plug and play package.  
 
Powered by Harlequin®, the world’s fastest RIP, eLab Pro builds upon the success of Meteor’s eLab, an essential RIP configuration tool.  Designed for developers of industrial inkjet systems, eLab Pro works seamlessly with Meteor’s inkjet printhead drive electronics and software offering an attractive, intuitive graphical user interface with the ability to command the RIP directly from the print controller or printer Digital Front End (DFE).  Including an out-of-the box DFE and a comprehensive set of ready-made configurations such as QR code generation with variable data imposition, print system builders can be up and running in minutes. 
 
eLab Pro delivers all the benefits people have come to expect from Meteor including integrated, ultra-fast access to ScreenPro™, a multi-level screening engine developed by sister company Global Graphics Software that corrects inkjet print imperfections, and MetCal, wizard-driven software that automates printer calibration and runs Meteor’s exclusive nozzle-out compensation technologies.  eLab Pro also works alongside popular VDP PDF products including Harlequin VariData™, STEPZ by Hybrid Software and Variegator by Xitron®.
 
Operating efficiently on the same PC as MetPrint or any DFE running Meteor’s PrintEngine, eLab Pro can significantly reduce the cost of computing power and switches for industrial print applications.  Used together with a spectrophotometer (not included) and ICC profile creation software such as that provided by ColorLogic or X-Rite, colour management and precision spot colour matching capabilities are available.  For the ultimate in high-speed book printing or adding variable data to labels and packaging, eLab Pro is available with Meteor’s Scalable RIP Farm where multiple RIPS run in parallel.
 
Clive Ayling, Meteor’s managing director comments, “After an enormously successful beta test period, we’re excited to launch eLab Pro which is available immediately.  This is the perfect tool for industrial inkjet customers, with a great GUI and a seamless interface to any Meteor-based workflow.”
 
Jonathan “JW” Wilson, Meteor’s head of business development adds, “Existing eLab customers will be pleased to know that we’ve made it extremely easy to upgrade to eLab Pro with complete access to all previously developed configuration files.  Customers can contact me or their local account manager for upgrade details.”

Electronics For Imaging’s (EFI) global provider of integrated end-to-end 2D and 3D CAD/CAM software solutions for the fashion and apparel industry, today announced its agreement with Rapha® Racing Ltd., one of the world’s top cycling clothing manufacturers. Through the agreement, Rapha purchased EFI Optitex 3D solutions to enhance its design and production workflow.
 
Founded in 2004, London-based Rapha’s cycling clothing collections are globally recognised for redefining comfort, performance, and style for cyclists from beginners to WorldTour professionals. Rapha’s mission is to make cycling the most popular sport in the world. The company organises and sponsors rides and events both within its global 15,000-strong members base known as the Rapha Cycling Club, and for the general public. Rapha has been working with the world’s best athletes for many years and currently partners with the women’s UCI WorldTour team, CANYON//SRAM and the men’s WorldTour team EF Education First® Pro Cycling.
 
With Rapha’s commitment to excellence, accelerating design processes and implementing advanced digital solutions, adding EFI Optitex 3D was the next logical step in ensuring the delivery of high-quality products, on time and on budget.
 
EFI Optitex partnered with Rapha to boost the clothing manufacturer’s overall efficiency, enabling Rapha to gain a real competitive edge in the industry. The company first implemented EFI Optitex 2D solutions, and more recently augmented the software with EFI Optitex 3D solutions to integrate 3D digital design and prototyping into Rapha’s workflows. Rapha is currently participating in training and on-boarding to implement EFI Optitex 3D Pattern Design Software (PDS) with photorealistic renderings and the 3D Design Illustrator (3DDI) plugin.
 
Today, Rapha is primed and ready to grow and embrace the power of an integrated 2D-3D workflow. With EFI Optitex 3D, Rapha will benefit from significant savings in sample production time and make quick adoption decisions. The company will be able to showcase true-to-life virtual samples within hours and work with a single digital asset, eliminating manual steps in the design-development process.
 
“We chose Optitex 2D as our pattern cutting solution because of its intuitive, easy-to-use tools and functionalities, and its insight into implementing EFI Optitex 3D down the road, to serve as a single solution in helping us to reduce samples through fit assessment early in the process,” said Rapha Head of Atelier Claudine Rousseau. “What’s more, investing in 3DDI will greatly help our graphics team to visualise graphic applications, and facilitate a more experimental approach. It will also minimise errors in communication with our vendors, saving time and costs.”
 
Rousseau added, “We are keen to work with EFI Optitex as a long-term partner to take innovative digital solutions forward, as we strive to maintain our reputation as a leading cyclewear brand.”
 
EFI Optitex General Manager Amir Lehr commented, “As an amateur cyclist and an avid customer of Rapha, I’ve learned to appreciate the functional fit, care for details and meticulous design Rapha provides. We share the objective of accelerating concept-to-delivery and customisation while maintaining strict quality control enabled by digitising the workflow, today, and well into the future.”

French printing software company Caldera has announced the release of the latest edition of its market-leading RIP software, Version 13.1. This version brings a range of new innovative features, including new OS support, several new drivers, along with extra features which are exclusive to CalderaCare customers. Caldera Version 13.1 was unveiled at C!Print/Lyon on 5th February 2020, and is now being rolled out to customers and the company’s distributors around the world.

With a pre-stated aim of automating double-sided printing production and boosting content tracking, the new version continues to expand the award-winning software’s ability to further enhance the user experience. According to Sébastien Hanssens, VP Marketing & Operations, “Caldera is constantly looking to add innovations and features for our customers that will add value to their business, as well as improve the ease-of-use of the software.”

All Caldera RIP users will benefit from the introduction of new OS support, which now includes Mac OS Catalina and Linux OS Debian 10. Additionally, new cutter and spectrophotometer drivers have been added. In addition to an impressive list of existing devices, users can now use V13.1 to drive Graphtec FC 9000 and Graphtec CE 7000 cutters and X-Rite i1Pro3 spectrophotometers.

For CalderaCare subscribers, there is the introduction of a new dedicated portal, the HelpDesk, designed as an easier and faster way to fix user issues and get answers to questions. This new feature will enhance the Caldera experience by providing a new portal via which users will be able to exchange information and submit requests. Help requests will be easier to track using personal accounts from within the Caldera HelpDesk portal.

Another new feature that’s exclusive to CalderaCare is Nesting Content View. User feedback had identified a need for a way of distinguishing printed and non-printed jobs. Now, with a newly updated version of CalderaJobs, users can easily identify all the Autonest files, search for jobs included inside Autonest files and archive, reprint or delete nested jobs. This will not only make organisation of jobs easier, but also save time and cost in day-to-day operations.

Caldera has developed automated double-side printing for this latest version. The new feature for CalderaCare subscribers allows jobs to be sent to both roll-to-roll and flatbed printers in an optimized way, allowing users to manage their print module more effectively. Side B is automatically generated based on the Side A design and shape. It also allows for images to be rotated, mirrored and aligned as required. The new double-side print capability is compatible with a wide range of other advanced Caldera modules, resulting in higher productivity and a more flexible workflow.

Additional information is available on the company's website at www.caldera.com.