Prepress
Pakready launches new version of its packaging development system
Friday 26. February 2010 - Design, print, cut in fast, easy-to-use package
Stand 358, Print Zone
Seamless workflow with Pakready Creator CAD working in conjunction with Adobe Illustrator
Enhanced cutter with laser registration, improves accuracy and productivity
To coincide with Packaging Innovations, Pakready has launched a new version of its powerful solution for rapid production of packaging prototypes and short runs. Pakready LRS combines high quality colour printing with the capabilities of a much enhanced network cutter and creaser. The latter has been redesigned with a compact footprint, improved serviceability and a totally new registration system. Sophisticated software completes the package to allow users to produce lifelike simulations of packaging and POS item in a fraction of the time normally taken.
Design development
Fast prototype production starts with the Pakready Creator CAD package, giving on-screen design freedom and a library of over 1000 existing pack templates to ensure rapid development. For each template, there is an almost infinite number of variation possibilities achieved by changing dimension, folds, tabs and locking mechanisms.
Once a pack format is established, Pakready Creator includes a bi-directional interface that allows the cut and crease’ wireframe to be exported to Adobe Illustrator for the application of graphics. A simple import function then returns the finished design to Pakready Creator where it can be displayed on screen in full 3D, with the ability to fold and unfold the construction to check its validity. To help the validation process, graphics can be hidden or displayed in transparent mode.
Further tools extend the use of Pakready Creator beyond the design stage. A new feature generates 3D pdf files, of less than 300kbs, for soft proofing. By providing full fold/unfold capabilities, 360 degree rotation and on-screen sizing using only Acrobat reader, these files are invaluable for significantly reducing approval cycles.
Litho-quality colour
Unlike alternative packaging proofing’ solutions, Pakready uses a transfer system to apply high quality, inkjet printed colour onto the prototyping stock. This means that the finish is colour fast and sufficiently rub resistant for marketing trials. The colour print can also be applied to the actual substrate of the final package, if required, giving the look and feel of the finished job.
High-tech cutting
The considerably enhanced cutter on the Pakready LRS uses the latest laser registration system to ensure cutting and creasing with pinpoint accuracy. Using the cutter guide downloaded from Pakready Creator CAD the cutter prepares the prototype ready for folding in less than a minute. Other improvements to the cutter include a new aesthetic look, suitable for office location and installation, and improved serviceability with easy access to the onboard electronics.
Derek Sizer at Pakready confirms that the new Pakready LRS will reduce prototype production time even further and give a better result at the same time. “Our existing customers are very appreciative of the time savings that the Pakready system creates – some prototypes can be produced in less than 10 minutes. But market feedback told us that the cutter operation and some features of the software could be improved. Both of these challenges have been resolved. The new cutter is available today.”
As part of its ongoing commitment to existing users, Pakready will be making its new Laser registration system available as an upgrade, bringing improved ease of use as well as improved productivity and accuracy. New Pakready Creator CAD software, V4, will be available shortly with improved operation, a library of almost 2000 Package designs and the ability to add custom designs.