websites revisited `you ain`t seen nothing yet` - signpro

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Magazine for the European sign industry
www.signpro-europe.com
2
July 2011 - Year 9 - Number
VISCOM WITH NEW
SUBTITLE FROM
2011
International Trade Fair for Visual
Communication, Technology and Design
ROLAND DG
30TH
ANNIVERSARY
Rapid development in signage
over past ten years
DIGITAL
WORKFLOW
EXPERIENCE
EFI displays the latest versions
of its total print solutions
An analysis of
European sign websites
WEBSITES
REVISITED
‘Augmented Reality’
in the sign business
‘YOU AIN’T
SEEN
NOTHING YET’
NEWS
INTRO
Desperately looking for
an overview.
Although Digital Textile has made a name for itself in the fields of
design sampling and soft signage, it still plays a comparatively minor
role in the global textile supply chain. The benefits of digital printing
technology are well known right across the market but, lacking effective solutions, Digital Textile is simply not perceived as a genuine alternative, or supplement, to traditional finishing processes.
The ongoing story of
digitally printed textiles
P
articularly with the European textile sector in mind,
The aim of this project, entitled KAPPA, was to have a powerful
Digital Textile provides the opportunity to respond
digital textile printer – with a printing speed well in excess of
swiftly to customers' changing requirements and
300 m2/hr and with excellent print quality – ready for presen-
achieve diversification and an edge over Asian based mass
tation in September.. Just before this magazine went to print,
producers.
ready to be distributed to our valued readers, a press release
announced that the Durst Kappa 180 will be premiered at the
With the right technology to produce Digital Textile in place,
ITMA 2011 trade show.
the textile printer benefits from the necessary reduction in
The Dutch approach of Hollanders Printing Systems
Hollanders Printing Systems is the sole provider of a digital textile printing platform that includes
solutions for every step of the process. It’s a balanced set of hardware, software, supplies and
services. Every single stand-alone device offers a solution in itself. Combined however, it offers
a seamless system for the production of picture perfect output for indoor and outdoor use.
lower your impact on the environment
produce textile print without compromise
yield higher margins, grow profitable business
[email protected] | +31(0)407110711 | www.hollanders-ps.nl
The Durst Kappa 180 sets new standards in the industry, with
the same time opening up exciting new market opportunities.
a real printing speed of more than 600 m2/hour (more than
Although Digital Textile will not oust conventional methods, it
300 running metres) and outstanding print quality (1056 x 600
will doubtless significantly increase the present market share of
dpi). The official market launch of the Durst Kappa 180 will be
1% of every metre produced.
held at the ITMA 2011 trade show in Barcelona, where textile
Durst Kappa 180.
specialists will be able to see for themselves the performance
greater than the sum of all parts
Gear up to green
Conform to quality
Admit to profit
resources and from greater customer satisfaction, whilst at
www.hollanders-ps.nl
Many companies are now trying to take advantage of the
capabilities of the new Durst system and find out more about
still somewhat dormant market for digital textile printing,
the new potential inherent in digital textile printing. The top
as demonstrated by Durst, which presented its new Textile
of the range Durst Kappa 180 textile printing machine has
Business Unit at the FESPA trade show in Hamburg.. This new
fully automatic textile in feed and guide facilities with a maxi-
division of the company, headed by Christoph Gamper, is wor-
mum printing width of 195 cm and a printing blanket with an
king on the next generation of digital printing technologies for
integrated washing system.
textiles. The Durst Textile Team, based at the company's development facility in Kufstein, Austria, has been entrusted with
But there’s more in this field. Long established companies
the task of designing the high performance textile machine and
such as Stork, with a history and reputation in analogue and
coordinating Durst proprietary Quadro print head technology
digital textile printing, also recently introduced new digital tex-
Ton Rombout, Editor-in-Chief
with the relevant textile specification - the primary aim being to
tile printing machines. More recent arrivals such as Hollanders
SignPro Europe
meet the specific requirements of the textile industry with Printing Systems are lining up with competing solutions. This
‘QuadroZ’s .. The company’s own high-grade inks (Kappa Inks)
has opened up an intriguing and competitive field of activity.
for textile printing were developed simultaneously at the Durst
As journalists we await with interest, and will monitor, what
Research Centre in Lienz, Austria.
will happen next.
2011 • july
>3
NEWS
COLOPHON
CONTENT
The ongoing story of digitally printed textiles
Viscom with new subtitle from 2011
Year 9, issue 2
July 2011
SignPro Europe is published by:
Publimore Media B.V.
Weegschaalstraat 3
NL-5632 CW Eindhoven
The Netherlands
Tel: +31(0)40-29 11 440
Fax: +31(0)40-29 11 442
E-mail: [email protected]
Publisher: John ter Meer
SignPro Europe Internet:
Editorial
Mr. Ton Rombout (The Netherlands), Editor-in-Chief
Mrs. Sonja Angerer (Germany)
Mr. Loet van Bergen (The Netherlands)
Mrs. Alicia Bernal (Spain)
Mrs. Ingrid Birtwistle (United Kingdom), translations
Mrs. Cristina Rossi (Italy)
Mrs. Andrea Edan (United Kingdom)
Mr. Koen Goederis (Belgium)
Mr. Herman Hartman (The Netherlands)
Mr. Rob Haak (The Netherlands)
Mr. Lars-Erik Hoiskar (Norway)
Mr. Stewart Partridge (United Kingdom)
Mr. Stefan Svarrer (Sweden)
Mrs. Kaisa Salminen (Finland)
12
Roland DG 30th anniversary 13
Food from a production printer
16
‘Augmented Reality’ in the sign business
18
EFI displays the latest versions of its total print solutions
20
A champion in versatility
24
Explaining possibilities by example
28
Mid volume printer with potential
30
New cast vinyls
33
Hybrid with an individual character
34
Digital Textile Conference Europe
37
Furnishing a printer area
39
Websites revisited an analysis of European sign websites
40
Magazine for the European sign industry
Highest Precision
UV LED Printer
3
HIGHER SPEED
MORE FLEXIBILITY
2
July 2011 - Year 9 - Number
VISCOM WITH NEW
SUBTITLE FROM
2011
Print width: 160 x 310 cm
International Trade Fair for Visual
Communication, Technology and Design
ROLAND DG
30TH
ANNIVERSARY
Rapid development in signage
over past ten years
PRINT
80%
DIGITAL
WORKFLOW
EXPERIENCE
EFI displays the latest versions
of its total print solutions
An analysis of
European sign websites
WEBSITES
REVISITED
‘Augmented Reality’
in the sign business
‘YOU AIN’T
SEEN
NOTHING YET’
FASTER
• Possibility to print legible
3 point characters
Layout
• Higher printing speeds compared to
Eric Rooijakkers (www.regelrecht.eu)
Advertising
John ter Meer
Tel: +31(0)40 29 11 440
Subscriptions
Annual subscription (four times a year)
Europe: e 54,50
Outside Europe: e 74,50
JFX-1631 up to 23.6 m2/h
• Problem-free printing on
heat sensitive media
13
33
• White ink and clear ink available
• UV LEDs do not require
Print width: 160 x 150 cm
drying time and warm-up time
Printing
Offset Print
Exceptional quality, dramatic increase in productivity
Always striving for precision and innovation, Mimaki presents the JFXplus
UV inkjet printers. The series features 80% higher print speed compared
to its predecessor. With two sizes and the possibility to print on rigid and
© 2011 Publimore Media B.V.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or
transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopying, recording or any information storage or retrieval
system without the express prior written consent of the publisher.
The publisher accepts no responsibility for any statements made in
signed contributions or those reproduced from any other source, nor for claims
made in any advertisement.
Post-curing unit
Roll option
18
Mimaki Europe B.V.
4<
july • 2011
Engineering precision
Tel. +31 (0)20 462 76 40
Fax. +31 (0)20 462 76 49
roll media, the JFX plus series offers outstanding flexibility in addition to its
exceptional quality.
www.mimakieurope.com
[email protected]
NEWS
JOURNAL
JOURNAL
NEWS
New 470sqm/hr model added to the
Inca Onset series: Inca Onset S40
Mutoh launches High-Performance Garment
Pattern Marking & Cutting Plotters
Inca Digital Printers recently launched the Inca Onset S40, the
Mutoh Belgium nv announced a new series of garment pattern mar-
latest addition to its Inca Onset range of wide-format UV flat-
king / cutting plotters, called Kona Apparel. Specifically developed for
bed inkjet printers. Positioned between the flagship, super high
the garment industry, Mutoh’s Kona Apparel series are high speed pro-
productivity Inca Onset at 750sqm/hr and the Inca Onset S20 at
fessional output devices for use with apparel CAD systems. Available in
310 sqm/hr, the new Inca Onset S40 prints at up to 470 sqm/hr.
two models - Kona Apparel 1400 (cutting width 1365 mm ) and Kona
With the addition of the Onset S40 to the Inca Onset range there
Apparel 1650 (cutting width of 1615 mm) - this new plotter series will
are now 18 different Onset configurations available, offering a
ensure accurate long-length plotting of marker lines on design templates
choice of productivity levels and ink options. This enables compa-
and cutting of garment patterns. The Kona Apparel tool head offers a
nies to pick the right model, at the best price, performance and,
dual functionality. Two different tools (knife holder & pressurised ball
therefore, return on investment (ROI) for their business.
point pen) can be loaded simultaneously. Switching between plotting
Info: www.incadigital.com
(marking) and cutting is possible without any operator intervention.
Info: www.mutoh.eu
Enfocus announces Switch 10
automate repetitive tasks, allowing publishing professionals to focus on creativity and adding
Puntes transforms production and branding
with support of EskoArtwork technology
value to their businesses. New and enhanced features within Switch 10 will give printers and
Spanish print service provider Puntes streamlined and renewed its production
publishers more robust automation, greater depths of data security, and the ability to extract
set-up with the investment in a raft of EskoArtwork technology. The company
more value from existing information sources and third-party tools.
enjoys a long-standing relationship with EskoArtwork, and recently installed
Info: www.enfocus.com
a CDI Spark 5080 with HD Flexo technology, Digital Flexo Suite software and
Enfocus announces Switch 10, the latest version of its suite of workflow software solutions that
Kongsberg XL22 cutting table. The installation enabled Puntes to grow on an
international level and establish a stronger presence in foreign markets.
Info: www.esko.com
Zünd Digital Cutting: fully automated, unattended production
handling system offers more efficient and fully automated digital cutting, is highly modular and can be implemented gradually.
Xerox will stop taking orders for
wide-format products in the US
and Canada in 2011
With full automation of both the loading and unloading process, virtually no setup or operator intervention is required. All of this
According to Scott Frame, vice president, Wide Format, Xerox
combines to significantly enhance productivity while limiting personnel requirements to loading and unloading pallets of stacked
Corporation, “Xerox will stop taking orders for wide-format
‘Short-run’ and ‘just-in time’ production is today’s standard for producers of packaging and display graphics. The new Zünd board-
boards and finished product.
Mimaki adds new clear ink to its LH-100 hard UV ink
Info: www.zund.com
Mimaki Engineering Co. Ltd is pleased to announce that clear ink has been added to its LH-100
based on inventory levels. Xerox’s European and Developing
hard UV ink for UJF-3042, JFX plus series and JFX series of UV LED curable inkjet printers. The
Market operations will continue selling wide-format products
clear ink enables effects such as ‘Glossy Finish’ and ‘Matte Finish’ adding value to the product
and will source new products. Xerox has opted to not invest in
outcome. These effects provide a finish close to ‘Varnish Finish’ which has been actively used in
wide format product engineering in 2011.
the printing industry. Furthermore, the clear ink can be layered multiple times so that images
Info: www.xerox.com
products in the US and Canada in 2011, with specific timing
Roland DG’s first hybrid UV-LED
inkjet printer
GrafiWrap Racing
In order to promote their new range of GrafiWrap products, Grafityp has
may not only look more enticing, but also create a strong desire to touch the image.
Roland DG introduced the 64-inch (1625mm) LEJ-640 UV-LED inkjet printer.
entered the exciting world of the European Pro/Am FIA GT3 and the Le Mans
Info: www.mimakieurope.com
The VersaUV LEJ-640 prints CMYK, White and Clear Gloss inks on a wide vari-
Series of races, as a partner of the popular European ProSpeed Competition
ety of flexible roll media and rigid substrates up to 13mm thick. The LEJ-640
race team. An experienced team of professional drivers is racing an exclusive
C-nario Digital Signage Platform drives
Video Wall Network at four Turkish Airports
enables professionals to explore exciting new options for applications ranging
GrafiWrap Porsche 911 GT3-R on some of the most outstanding European race
C-nario, a provider of digital signage software solutions, recently announced
from wide-format signage, displays and window graphics to POP, packaging
tracks. Info: www.grafityp.com
that the company’s digital signage software platform, C-nario Messenger, has
prototypes and interior décor items.
been implemented at the domestic flight terminals of Izmir Adnan Menderes
Info: www.rolanddg.be
Airport and Dalaman Airport, both in Turkey. These new video walls join two
others in Istanbul Ataturk Airport at its international flight terminal, and one
at Bodrum Airport at its domestic flight terminal. Installed and operated by
the Turkish digital platform provider Digiboard, the six video walls at the four
airports feature 138” screens, and are seen annually by 60 million passengers.
In addition to the video walls, C-nario Messenger drives more than 100 stand
alone screens in these airports.
Info: www.c-nario.com
6<
july • 2011
2011 • july
>7
NEWS
JOURNAL
JOURNAL
NEWS
Stretchable UV ink for Roland DG’s VersaUV series
Pioneering Interactive Restaurant Inamo opens second
London site
Roland DG introduced Eco-UV S, a next generation of the company’s Eco-UV ink that is formu-
Inamo st james is the second site from Danny Potter and Noel Hunwick, the operators behind inamo, the
VersaUV line of inkjet printers. The ink is offered in cyan, magenta, black, yellow and white.
pan-Asian restaurant and bar in Soho, London that features virtual menus navigated via table top projections.
With Eco-UV S ink, users can create realistic packaging prototypes using shrink films or other
Situated on Lower Regent Street, the restaurant opened in December 2010. Spanning over 8,000 square feet
packaging materials, enabling them to explore a wide range of design options. The prints can
with a total capacity of 300 across the restaurant, bar and sushi bar areas, the second venture will present an
be extended up to 220 percent, allowing users to stretch graphics to fit even the most difficult
entirely different interior design from the first inamo, with the focus on distinctive natural elements such as
uneven shapes, indentations, corners and curved surfaces.
back-lit semi-precious stone and a vertical Japanese garden with a water feature.
Info: www.rolanddg.be
lated to deliver exceptional elasticity and flexibility for graphics produced using Roland DG’s
Info:
Substantial increase in sales at GMG in 2010
Bachmann-Dambach Group buys world’s
first :M-Press Leopard
GMG, developer and supplier of high-end colour management software solutions, recently announced that the
FESPA en EskoArtwork deliver
member value
company had succeeded in achieving a substantial increase in sales of 30% in 2010, compared to the previous
FESPA has teamed up with EskoArtwork, the global developer
year. The highest growth was recorded in Germany/Austria/Switzerland, the largest single region for GMG,
of workflow, automation and quality assurance solutions, to
FESPA Digital Exhibition marks debut for HP Scitex
LX850 and LX820 Printers
and in Oceania. Software sales likewise rose in France and Northeast Asia, as well as in the Iberia region. The
offer members of FESPA’s national associations a series of pro-
During FESPA Digital, HP was showing a wider than ever range of digital solutions for print
world to use Agfa’s : M-Press Leopard for high-quality printing on various
good development at the company’s three subsidiaries - GMG Americas, GMG Japan, and GMG UK - was above
motional offers on Esko Artwork products. Marketing Director
service providers (PSPs) on its stand. HP’s solutions line-up comprised the newest HP Latex
substrates, primarily intended for point of sales applications. The purchase
average. For the first time, GMG now offers a customer-specific software bundle, tailored specifically to the
at EskoArtwork, Jef Stoffels comments: “At EskoArtwork we
technologies, including the new HP Scitex LX850 and HP Scitex LX820 Printers that build upon
was finalised at Fespa Digital 2011. Dambach Print+Service GmbH is one of
requirements of HP Scitex users. The GMG ColorServer Suite for HP Scitex printers includes GMG ColorServer,
are proud of the benefits our software and finishing solutions
the performance benefits delivered by earlier models. Already, more than 5,000 printers using
the leading screen printers in Germany. Thanks to the new design, :M-Press
GMG SmartProfiler, preconfigured hotfolders, and colour profiles for instant use.
deliver. However, we recognize that, for most wide format
HP Latex Inks technology have been bought by sign and display PSPs around the world.
Leopard allows for new applications that require more manual handling.
Info: www.gmgworld.com
printers, keeping up with the industry’s rapid rate of techno-
Info: www.hp.com
Info: www.agfa.com
Agfa Graphics announced that Dambach Print+Service GmbH, a screen
printing house near Karlsruhe in Germany, purchased its first :M-Press
Leopard digital press. Dambach Print+Service is the first printer in the
logical development is an expensive exercise. We are pleased
to work with FESPA to help their members keep abreast of
our innovative technologies, and to offer them these unique
deals.”
Info: www.fespa.com/fespa-associations-intro/fespa-associ-
New HEXIS Cast Films at FESPA Digital 2011
ations.html
HEXIS was exhibiting at this year’s FESPA Digital to demo their Latex digital printing film and gloss laminate destined for wrapping applications. Both films are free of all materials with certain environmental issues such as
PVC, solvents, plasticizers and heavy metals. The compound is flexible and conformable enough to be suitable
100 microns and boasts a printed and laminated vertical outdoor exposure of 3 years. It can be printed with
White Paper from Mutoh provides
better insight into ‘GREEN’ issues
Mutoh Bio inks and HP Latex ink and all types of solvent and eco-solvent inks.
Wide format inkjet printer and cutting plotter manufacturer
Info: www.hexis.com
Mutoh Belgium nv released a white paper, called “How Green
for car wraps and in general applications that demand a conformable film. The HXL300WG2 has a thickness of
is Green?”, providing print providers and printer users a better
insight into ‘green’ issues specifically related to wide format
digital printing.
Although most companies are now increasingly preoccupied
with green issues and many are setting ambitious targets to
reduce their overall carbon footprint, they are also beginning
to realize that the whole topic of practical sustainability is a
lot more complex than it initially seems. At the same time,
existing and potential wide-format digital printer users are
8<
july • 2011
confronted with an increasing number of ‘green washing’
Mimaki product range positively received at FESPA Digital 2011
practices. These practices are rather misleading and/or sca-
Mimaki was very pleased with its participation at FESPA Digital 2011, with its extensive range of digital printing and cutting solutions on display. The recently laun-
ring off users from digital technologies, whilst in reality, the
ched JV34-260, based on the JV33 series, features a print width of 2.6 m and achieves significantly faster speeds resulting in higher productivity while at the same
digital printing technology is much greener versus conventio-
time appealing to cost-conscious print service providers. Available as solvent and dye sublimation model, the JV34-260 prints a wide variety of indoor and outdoor
nal printing technologies. In acknowledgement of this, Mutoh
applications with excellent quality at high printing speed up to 30m2/h. Three units of UJF-3042, the world’s first compact (A3 size) UV flatbed printer, also attracted
Belgium has produced a white paper that explores all of the
a large number of visitors. For textile professionals looking for printing solutions for the soft signage and apparel markets, Mimaki exhibited three high capacity
various options available.
direct-to-fabric printers: the 1.8 m wide Tx400-1800D and Tx400-1800B, as well as the super wide JV5-320DS (3.2 m).
Info: www.mutoh.eu
Info: www.mimakieurope.com
2011 • july
>9
NEWS
JOURNAL
JOURNAL
NEWS
Enfocus updates PitStop for optimized iPad experience
Omnivex Moxie Digital Signage Software used in over 30
Broadway Theatres
Enfocus announces update 2 of its PitStop Pro 10 and PitStop Server 10 software tools. Update 2 answers the
Omnivex announced that their Moxie software is being used in over thirty Broadway theatres to manage
e-reader devices such as the Apple iPad.
content on digital screens throughout these facilities. The software is used to communicate with the
“Viewing PDF files on tablet devices has not always proved to be a straightforward task. While they have
thousands of visitors who attend Broadway performances every year. “Omnivex Moxie was selected for
become increasingly important within printing and publishing workflows, these devices might have limita-
its ability to permission user groups, its graphic capabilities, and for its ability to consolidate other thea-
tions which cause lengthy delays waiting for a PDF to open. This can even crash the PDF reader application
tre functions into one system,” said Jennifer Tattenbaum, Director of Interactive Services, The Shubert
completely,” explains Elli Cloots, Director of Product Management at Enfocus.”With update 2 of PitStop Pro
Organization. The theatre lighting and audio on the digital screens are now linked, which allows the thea-
10 and PitStop Server 10, we address the increasing market need for matching PDF files with these successful
tres to turn off the audio on all of the screens when the lights are dimmed for show time, all with the flick
e-reader applications.”
of a switch. Info: www.omnivex.com
needs of customers who require the ability to quickly and easily look at, and interact with, complex PDF files on
EskoArtwork showcased «Design to Print to Cut»
solutions at Fespa Digital 2011
EskoArtwork was showcasing its complete portfolio of integrated workflow and digital finishing
Enfocus announces PitStop Connect 10
hardware and software solutions at Fespa Digital. The highlight of the show was EskoArtwork’s
PitStop Connect 10 connects printers and publishers with their customers, ensuring hassle-free file delivery
i-cut Suite. Visitors to the EskoArtwork stand had the opportunity to gain hands-on experience
and PDF quality control. By eliminating errors and streamlining the production process, users can save time,
of the Kongsberg i-XL24 and i-XP44, two of the company’s digital finishing solutions, specifi-
cut costs, reduce stress and improve customer satisfaction. New to PitStop Connect 10 is automatic updating
cally designed to deliver unsurpassed productivity and perfect registration. Also on show at
of Connectors, secure file transfer and personalized service by using intelligent metadata through enhanced
Fespa was ArtiosCAD 7.6 which is the preferred structural design software of industry leading
Switch 10 support. PitStop Connect 10 allows printers and publishers to easily create and distribute Connectors,
professionals worldwide. It allows designers to easily build structural designs and 3D POP dis-
i.e. small desktop tools to which customers drag and drop files. It offers a single gateway for file transmission
plays. A key benefit is its complete 3D integration, enabling quick prototyping of designs and
that can be made more predictable using Enfocus’ bulletproof PDF preflighting and correction technology
presentations while eliminating communication errors and reducing design review cycles.
within a Connector. Issues such as missing fonts and low-resolution images are detected, and if possible even
Info: www.esko.com
corrected automatically.
GMG acquires Aurelon
GMG, a developer and supplier of high-end colour management software solutions, recently announces the acquisition of
Aurelon, located in The Netherlands. Aurelon provides innovative, modular and scalable technology for the processing of digital
information to any media that requires accurate graphic production and output. With the acquisition of Aurelon, GMG is strengthening its presence in the large-format print production market significantly and is continuing its strategic expansion beyond
traditional market segments.
the occasion of Mutoh Belgium’s 20th anniversary, Fespa Digital visitors were also be able to benefit from attractive anniversary
Screen Europe centralises CtP, Workflows &
large format printer distribution in Italy
offers for Mutoh’s Belgium developed and manufactured dye sublimation, direct textile and sign printer products.
Screen announces that Samor Italia S.r.l. will
Four major showstoppers were presented at:
handle sales of its range of PlateRite CTP
· New Viper TX Professional direct to fabric printer with adhesive belt system
devices, and associated workflow, as well as
· Mutoh’s new Zephyr 3D UV ink technology fit for 3D fleet applications
its large format digital printers on an exclu-
· New Kona Apparel garment pattern marking/cutting plotter
sive basis throughout Italy. Samor has been
· New ValueJet Hybrid 1608HS printer with easy plug-in spectrophotometer
a Screen distributor for over 30 years and
Info: www.mutoh.be
the company has an in-depth knowledge of
Mutoh was showcasing its full range of wide format printers during
FESPA Digital
At Fespa Digital, Mutoh Belgium was showcasing its full range of wide format printers for sign, dye sub and textile applications. On
its product range as a result. In addition to
equipment and software sales, Samor Italia
will also handle all related consumable and
spare part sales. Its dedicated and highly-
EFI introduced new UV-Curing Digital Inkjet Printer with ‘Cool Cure’ Technology
skilled Screen team undergoes regular training courses at Screen’s Technology Centers
EFI introduced the EFI VUTEk GS3250LX UV-curing digital inkjet printer as an addition to its growing GS Series family of printers. Engineered to dramatically lower
in The Netherlands, UK and Japan to ensure
the total cost of ownership over the lifetime of the printer, the VUTEk GS3250lx incorporates ‘cool cure’ LED technology and increased productivity to facilitate faster
that they can provide the very best support
and more efficient job production than ever before. With no VOCs, less consumables and waste, low energy consumption, and the ability to print on recycled and
to the growing customer base in Italy.
other materials without introducing warping or head strikes, users can more easily satisfy customer requests for a greener printing solution. The VUTEk GS3250LX
Info: www.screeneurope.com
is being shown for the first time at Connect, EFI’s 12th annual users’ conference taking place at the Wynn in Las Vegas through April 29th.
Info: www.efi.com
10 <
july • 2011
2011 • july
> 11
EXHIBITIONS
NEWS
“That looks amazing inside!”
Visual communication, technology and design: a triad that
has become characteristic for Viscom. From 2011 this will
be reflected in its new subtitle – International Trade Fair for
Visual Communication, Technology and Design – a new brand
identity
International Trade Fair for Visual Communication, Technology and Design
Viscom with new
subtitle from 2011
By Ton Rombout
RoalndDG factory plant in Japan.
Rapid development in signage over past ten years
A major brand relaunch gave all four European ‘sign trade fairs’,
New key visual
i.e. Paris, Milan, Madrid and Düsseldorf/Frankfurt organised
The new subtitle is accompanied by a new key visual, which will
by Reed Exhibitions under the common Viscom label since
emphasize Viscom’s visual focus from 2011. To create the design
2007, the new subtitle of the Viscom fair, which alternates
Viscom organizer, Reed Exhibitions, cooperated closely with
between Düsseldorf and Frankfurt every year. It is the most
Niederrhein University. A student project team designed and
visible indicator of the transformation Viscom has undergone.
developed the new visual image of the international trade fair
Roland DG celebrated its 30th anniversary and treated its customers to free drinks and snacks at FESPA Digital
for visual communication, technology and design.
in Hamburg this year. The ‘place to be’ was a gigantic truck located between two exhibition halls. It was com-
New target groups
“Is it really safe to sit on these printed furniture
“Especially the digital signage world and the inkjet printing
“In this age of permanent visual stimulation it is important for
objects?”
segment, which in terms of design options offers all the pos-
a specialist fair for visual communication to set standards. We
sibilities of industrial production, have come to attract target
wanted to see how creative young people would handle this
groups far beyond the visual communication core business”,
challenge”, is how Viscom director, Petra Lassahn, describes her
comments Viscom director, Petra Lassahn. This development is
interest in this cooperation. The outcome is as straightforward
highlighted by the new subtitle. In addition to the professionals
as it is comprehensible. It provides a visual representation of the
amongst trade visitors from the fields of advertising techno-
very core of Viscom, i.e. it is synonymous with seeing and being
logy, light advertising and sign making, an increasing number
seen. The design, featuring two stylised pupils set in a dynamic
of advertising agencies, architects and direct customers from
three dimensional grid, is a key visual that immediately attracts
industry and the retail sector also use Viscom as a source of
the visitor’s attention.
Roland DG 30th anniversary
pletely wrapped and decorated in Roland style. Inside the truck dozens of objects personalized using Roland
M
any of the visitors to FESPA Digital came to
has been listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange First Selection
see, and welcomed the arrival of, Roland DG’s
since 2002.
new products. The number of interested visi-
Three years later Roland DG introduced its ECO-SOL ink. This
tors at the Roland DG booth increased by 30%
was the industry’s first solvent ink formulated to be kind to
compared to the previous exhibition. Together this made FESPA
both users and the environment. That same year the company
Digital 2011 the best edition ever for Roland DG.
released the VersaCAMM SP-300 integrated printer/cutter,
information and innovation, as demonstrated by the fact that
“How many pixels did you say?”
“Are we going to Allianz in our Peugeot, smoking a
Marlboro?”
which set the industry standard for price and performance. This
more than 1 in 10 of the total of 11,000 Viscom visitors are now
Events
Prominent enterprise
machine and its successors became Roland DG’s best selling
industrial or retail clients, and up to 3 % of them are architects.
The Viscom Düsseldorf 2011 International Trade Fair for Visual
Roland DG was founded on 1 May 1981 as a subsidiary of the
products.
Communication, Technology and Design will be held from 13 - 15
Roland Corporation in Osaka (Japan). Although the company
Industry changes
October 2011� in the Düsseldorf Exhibition Centre, Halls 8a and
initially produced computerized music peripherals, it soon deve-
World exclusives
The transformation of the trade fair is also the result of chan-
8b, Stockumer Kirchstraße 61, D-40474 Düsseldorf.
loped into a significant manufacturer of pen plotters, cutters
Throughout the years, Roland DG introduced many world’s
ges in the media and communications industry. Traditional
12 <
july • 2011
By Ton Rombout
machines were exhibited.
and later inkjet printers, engraving and modelling machines.
first innovations. They introduced the world’s first UV printer/
boundaries between different media are becoming increasingly
• Viscom Paris 2011 will be held from 27 - 29 September 2011 at
Roland DG became very successful with its unique integrated
cutter to the market in 2008. The revolutionary VersaUV LEC-
blurred and new media are emerging. The challenge today is to
Paris Nord Villepinte, Hall 8.
printers/cutters. This technology generated a veritable revolu-
300 is highly acclaimed in various markets for its ability to
utilize surfaces, objects and spaces uniformly and consistently.
• Viscom Visual Communication Italy 2011 will be held from 03
tion in the sign market. Roland DG is still the market leader in
print texture and white on media that previously could not
The innovations in the industry are forced not only by design
- 05 November in the Fiera Milano Exhibition Centre in Milan.
combined printing and cutting.
be printed successfully, or not printed at all. The machine is
considerations, but also by technological developments. All this
• Viscom Spain 2011 will be held from 06 – 08 October 2011 at the
Roland DG Corporation was awarded ISO certification and
perfect for custom graphics, packaging prototypes, control
is reflected in the change in, and addition to, the Viscom nam-
Feria de Madrid (IFEMA) in Madrid.
became a stock-listed company in the year 2000. The company
panels and short run labels. The VersaUV has been recognized
RolandDG Head Quarters in Japan.
Selector for Metallic Inks.
2011 • july
> 13
NEWS
NEWS
The VersaUV LEF-12 from the front.
iPhone case sample printed with the LEF 12.
Some novelties you can print on with the LEF 12.
The new Eco-UVS ink can be stretched up to 220 % to apply prints onto the
LEC 300 print with marvellous gloss.
The VersaUV LEJ-640 is a 163 cm wide hybrid UV printer.
most complex shapes and corners.
Milestones in the history of the Roland DG
with prestigious DPI, EDP and Label Industry Global awards for
sionals to quickly and easily produce a wide range of full-colour
prototyping of vacuum-formed products and packaging, and
ting methods for solid materials, such as the screen process and
Roland DG Corporation in a nutshell
Corporation
outstanding innovation.
prints - with metallic effects if desired - for apparel heat
for signs and 3D displays.
pad printing, the LEF-12 does not require pre-press or finishing,
Founded: 1 May 1981
1981: Founded in Osaka, Japan.
Roland DG had another scoop in 2009 when the company laun-
transfers, labels, decals, POP, promotional signage and more.
With Eco-UV S ink users can create realistic packaging prototy-
including plate-making, drying time or post application proces-
Net sales: ±28 403 million JPY (2010 financial year)
1982: Introduction of the first pen plotter, the
ched the world’s first inkjet printer/cutter with metallic silver
Moreover, the BN-20 contour cuts graphics into virtually any
pes using shrink film or other packaging materials to explore a
ses. The LEF-12 streamlines the short-run production workflow
Number of employees: 567 (in March 2009)
ink, the XC-540MT. This 54” (1.37 m) wide machine also uses
shape. The machine is ideal for use in small or home offices,
wide range of design options. Prints can be extended up so that
and allows users to create original gifts and goods, customized
CMYK and white.
print shops or kiosks. It is designed for small batch production
they fit even the most awkward uneven shapes, indentations,
models and prototypes for consumer electronics, all on demand
In 2010 Roland DG released a series of machines that can be
on demand.
corners and curved surfaces.
with minimal running costs.
used with metallic and white ink, the VS range, which is availa-
The machine prints up to 40 labels or decals, measuring 100
Greater elasticity allows Eco-UV S prints to mould perfectly
ble in widths from 76 to 163 cm.
mm x 100 mm each, per hour. In addition to CMYK, the BN-20
to the contours of PET bottles and plastic cups, and ensures
The LEF-12 prints CMYK, plus white and clear ink for luxurious,
This year the company introduced the world’s first desktop
can also be configured with metallic silver Eco-Sol MAX ink for
flawless results on vacuum-formed plastic that is commonly
customized graphics with unrivalled image quality. Rich special
printer/cutter with metallic ink. The BN-20 is 52cm wide and
brilliant metallic effects. This was previously only possible via
used for items ranging from food service trays to auto parts
effects can be added including white graduation effects, matte
fits perfectly into any office environment. Roland DG also intro-
specialized processes such as screen printing, offset printing or
packaging and consumer electronics cases. Users can also
and high-gloss finishes and textures such as faux leather, croco-
duced the LEF-12, a desktop UV printer that prints directly onto
hot stamping technologies. Users can select any of the 512 spot
create three-dimensional wide format graphics, including POP
dile skin and Braille.
objects up to 10 cm high.
colours available in the Roland Metallic Colour System Library,
displays, signage and interior design items.
Substantial interest in new products at FESPA Digital
which is part of the
Available for use with the LEJ-640, LEC-540, LEC-330 and LEC-
VersaUV LEJ-640
VersaWorks software, and print them with high accuracy on
300A VersaUV models, it will print on a wide variety of shrink
The VersaUV LEJ-640 was also presented to the public for the
DXY-100.
1986: Launch of the first modelling machine, the
PNC-3000.
1988: Introduction of the first cutting plotter, the
PNC-1000.
1997: Release of the first combined high quality
printer and precision cutting plotter, the CJ-70.
2000: ISO 14001 certification. Listed on the Tokyo
Stock Exchange Second Section.
2003: Introduction of ECO-SOL ink and the VersaCAMM SP-300.
2004: Launch of a modelling machine for jewellers, the JWX-10.
2008: Introduction of the VersaUV LEC-300.
VersaStudio BN-20
the BN-20. VersaWorks also includes a Metallic Texture System
films and plastics made from PET, OPS, ABS, PMMA, polycar-
first time at FESPA Digital. The LEJ-640 is a 163 cm wide hybrid
2009: Introduction of the first inkjet printer/cut-
The BN-20 is a ‘world exclusive’ desktop printer/cutter that can
Library, making it easy to add patterns to metallic effects.
bonate etc.
UV printer, which prints on both rolls and rigid materials. The
ter with metallic silver ink, the XC-540MT.
2010: Release of the VS range of printers/cutters
with metallic and white ink.
2011: Launch of the VersaSTUDIO BN-20, the VersaUV LEF-12 and the VersaUV LEJ-640. Introduction of Eco-UVS stretchable ink.
14 <
july • 2011
be used with metallic ink. It has a printing-cutting width of 48 cm.
CEO: Masahiro Tomioka
Headquarters: Hamamatsu, Japan
Stock exchange: Tokyo Stock Exchange
T-Shirts printed with the BN20.
maximum media thickness is 1.3 cm and the ink is cured by built-
Users can choose between different ink types and configurati-
Eco-UV S
VersaUV LEF-12
in LED lamps. No heat is released, making it possible to print on
ons: the popular ECO-SOL MAX inks in CMYK or CMYK + metallic
This new version of Eco-UV ink can be stretched up to 220 % to
The LEF-12 is a flatbed UV-LED printer that prints names, logos,
heat sensitive materials. The LEJ-640 is ideal for large format
configuration, or water-based inks in CMYK configuration.
apply prints onto the most complex shapes and corners. The
photos and other designs on a wide variety of solid materials,
signage, displays and window graphics as well as packaging
Roland DG developed the BN-20 exclusively for the small batch
ink produces better results on films than the other Eco-UV ink
even on a single piece, to turn ordinary objects into personalized
prototypes, POP and interior design items.
production of custom-designed graphics. It enables profes-
and facilitates more applications. It is perfectly suited for the
and highly desirable items. Compared with conventional prin-
2011 • july
> 15
DEVELOPMENTS
D
DEVELOPMENTS
e Grood Innovations in Nijmegen, the
Improved production
Netherlands, developed a special printer, the
Pascal De Grood is convinced that the FoodJet Printer has taken
FoodJet Printer, specifically for this purpose.
production processes in the food industry to another level.
The FoodJet Printer has been around for about
“Next time you are preparing pizzas, just remember that in the
three years now and 30 machines, or com-
olden days people spent all day spreading tomato sauce over the
ponents thereof, have been sold to the food industry across
pizzas. Now it is all done automatically.”
various continents.
Because on the whole the printers are continually in production,
nozzle blockages are virtually non existent with the FoodJet
FoodJet Printer
Food from
a production
printer
We all know them - those round biscuits with pink icing. Who
would have thought that the pink icing would be applied by a
printer! Or, for that matter, the chocolate or caramel layer on
éclairs, the famous French cream filled pastries?
Pink biscuits
Printer. “Furthermore, the material has to be a homogenous
“Wouldn’t it be great to have a printer that could print with
mass”, states De Grood. “Peanut butter with nuts would defi-
chocolate?” someone once said to Pascal de Grood, owner of
nitely result in problems.” When the printer is not being used,
De Grood Innovations. He decided to take on the challenge and
its components can, and must, be cleaned. “Obviously we have
designed a machine that could print with certain food items.
to comply with all the hygiene requirements associated with a
As illustrated by the pink biscuits, the printer offers many
food production environment.”
Frontview with cookies.
De Grood Innovations
Together with De Grood Metaaltechniek,
De Grood Innovations is part of DG Holding in Nijmegen. This company specialises in
advantages to food manufacturers. Just think: pink icing used
to be applied by dipping the biscuits into an (open) container.
New applications
machining stainless steel, ferrous and non fer-
The biscuits then had to be flipped over, following which an
Pascal de Grood foresees many other applications for future
rous metals and synthetics, and receives many
operator at a conveyor belt had to reverse them again. Using a
models. “We are currently working on a new model in which
camera, the FoodJet Printer makes it possible to apply the icing
the nozzles are controlled individually and the bitmap format
exactly in the right position on the biscuit. They no longer need
is replaced by freehand bitmap, which means that the printer
to be turned, thus eliminating the need for an operator at a
can operate more smoothly and produce more refined results.”
conveyor belt. This method is more hygienic and, in particular,
However, Pascal De Grood also recognises many opportunities
more economical. It also saves on cleaning costs. No wonder
outside the food industry. “For instance we are presently coope-
that the printer is attracting considerable interest from the
rating with a printer supplier on a rapid prototyping application.
food industry.
Printing ceramics on tiles is another possibility. And we are even
looking at digitally generated bone tissue, a subject attracting
Printing flexible data
a lot of attention in the health care industry - own body tissue
The FoodJet printer will print text, logos or graphics onto a
produced by a printer. Although this application is still in its
substrate, in this case food. Similar to digital printing on paper,
infancy, it has enormous potential for the future. These are the
it offers the possibility to print flexible data onto the product,
types of applications that keep this craft so fascinating.”
i.e. apply decorations, additional layers or fillings. Chocolate or
orders from the medical sector.
De Grood Innovations currently employs 16
people. The software development, system
design and virtually all the production for the
FoodJet Printer is handled by the company in
Nijmegen.
FoodJet Printer Specifications
• Resolution up to 30 DPI
• Conveyor speed up to 40 m/min
• Conveyor width up to 1.2 m
• Viscosity up to 30000 Cps
icing on demand!
The principle on which the FoodJet Printer is based is not that far
De Grood Innovations.
removed from that of an inkjet printer, only on an inkjet printer
the nozzles on the print head are the size of a pinhead, whereas
the nozzles on the FoodJet Printer are much larger. Moreover,
the mass viscosity is also higher than that of the average printing ink. For instance a FoodJet can print with peanut butter,
By: Yvonne Keijzers
cream or icing.
In order to produce an image with an acceptable resolution De
Grood uses graphic tricks, for example, by placing the printer
diagonally onto the material, which results in a higher optical
resolution. “However, a resolution of 30 DPI is obviously quite
different from 1200 DPI”, Pascal de Grood laughingly admits.
Patents
The print head operation appears to be quite simple. The liquid
is pressed through the nozzle (using air) at regular intervals,
thus creating minuscule droplets. A membrane ensures that the
nozzle is opened and closed at the right time. The final result
is created by grouping the droplets. It sounds simple enough,
but this technology was so new that various patents were submitted, and awarded. They mainly relate to the technology in
combination with the viscosity of the material.
Ice personalized on demand.
16 <
july • 2011
2011 • july
> 17
DEVELOPMENTS
DEVELOPMENTS
Let me explain
most popular of these, usually free, Apps include Wikitude by
Picture yourself in a foreign city looking for an ATM machine.
the Salzburg based pioneer Mobilizy GmbH, Layar by a Dutch
Minutes earlier you discovered a beautiful, must have 19th cen-
company of the same name and Junaio by Metaio GmbH, which
tury porcelain vase at a very reasonable price in a tiny antique
is based in Munich. They share the same operating principle, i.e.
shop. The owner refused to accept anything other than cash.
using the phone’s GPS location and camera data, additional lay-
But you haven’t the faintest idea where you are in this labyrinth
ers or channels are added to the camera picture displayed on the
‘You ain’t seen nothing yet’
of small streets and alleyways that make up the old town – let
Smart phone screen. This provides information not only on local
alone where the nearest cash point might be. With a modern
attractions, but also on the portfolios, services or menus offered
You may think that digital signage with Bluetooth links, or posters
Smart phone, for example an Android or iOS phone (and the
by nearby stores and restaurants, including sales and discount
right App pre-installed), you would only have to point the built-
codes. Most Augmented Reality Browsers rely heavily on user
in camera at your surroundings and, as if by magic, the location
generated content, thus creating a community that shares its
of the nearest cash dispenser would appear on your mobile’s
favourite locations. However, they are also revolutionary new
screen. What almost sounds like a scene from Steven Spielberg’s
1-to-1 marketing channels that require very little printed adverti-
famous 2002 “Minority Report” movie is in fact becoming
sing output – other than the occasional outdoor poster or advert
mainstream reality - ‘Augmented Reality’ or AR. According to
to promote the App itself.
‘Augmented Reality’ in the sign business
with a QR barcode, are as high tech as it gets when it comes to
state of the art advertising.
Well, think again because ‘Augmented Reality’ applications are
about to alter our view on the world forever.
By Sonja Angerer
The Layar AR browser features several layers that
provide information on the Smart phone’s surroundings. Photograph: Layar
Wikipedia it is “a live direct or indirect view of a physical, real
world environment whose elements are augmented by com-
Print goes virtual
puter generated sensory input, such as sound or graphics”,
However, AR does not have to be wired to print. Kilian Druck, a
thus enhancing our perception of reality. Virtual reality on the
printing house based near Worms in Germany, recently intro-
other hand, for example in a professional flight simulator for
duced the ‘Active Label’ package, which connects packaging
pilot training, replaces the real world with a simulated one.
to Internet or POS display terminal applications. ‘Digital box
The term ‘Augmented Reality’ is believed to have been coined
kiosks’ have been in use in approximately 70 Lego stores world-
by Tom Caudell, a researcher at Boeing the aircraft manufac-
wide since the beginning of 2010. They were introduced to give
turer, in the early nineties. He did not apply it to Smart phone
customers a better idea of the content of Lego boxes, especially
screens at the time (very small low resolution colour displays
large and expensive ones for complex structures such as pirate
only became widely available for mobile phones in 2003) but
ships or space stations. Customers can present the boxes to the
to head-mounted displays for workers assembling complicated
POS kiosk and watch a 3D animation of the product from all
electrical wiring. Whatever the configuration may be to create
angles on the screen. This is made possible by software created
today’s Augmented Reality applications, three ingredients are
by Metaio, which combines virtual 3D content into a live video
always essential, i.e. a camera to capture the real live images, a
of the actual product. Although mainly known as the creators
high resolution screen to display the enhanced picture and pro-
of the above mentioned Junaio browser, the company with a
cessing power to merge the data. Before Smart phones became
70 strong workforce and offices in Munich and San Francisco
widely available around 2010, this technology could mainly be
has been developing AR applications since 1999 mainly for busi-
found on desktop computer and games consoles such as the
ness clients in marketing, industry, commerce and research. Its
Nintendo 3DS or Xbox 360.
Unifeye technology platform is used to create AR applications
‘Digital Box Kiosks’ have been installed in approximately 70 Lego stores throughout the world to show
customers the content of expensive Lego boxes.
Photograph: Metaio.
on the Internet and for mobile devices such as Smart phones
Dream or (Enhanced) Reality?
and tablets, trade fairs and POS campaigns. Its customers inclu-
The movie and games industry was the first to embrace AR.
de popular automotive brands such as BMW, Daimler, Toyota,
The 2009 US marketing campaign for Neill Blomkamp’s sci-fi
Volkswagen and Peugeot, as well as Bertelsmann and the
blockbuster ‘District 9’ included an AR logo card, which when
European Space Agency EADS. “AR is the most natural access
presented to a webcam started an interactive “Training Camp”
to the digital world”, the company states in its presentation. It
game (the ‘District 9 Augmented Reality Demo’ can still be seen
looks highly likely and set to change the face of advertising and
on YouTube today). When the Nintendo 3DS mobile games con-
shop fitting forever – once again.
The AR Card included in the Nintendo 3DS mobile
games console platform triggered a small 3D game
on the very surface the camera was pointing at.
Photograph: Nintendo.
sole platform was introduced in March 2011, it included an AR
card to trigger a small 3D game on the very surface the camera
was pointing at. As early as 2009 ‘Hidden Park’, an AR Fantasy
iPhone App for kids, was relaying GPS data to add cartoon fairies and other mythical creatures to walks through public parks
such as Kensington Gardens in London or the Englischer Garten
in Munich.
However, Augmented Reality is not just for games. The rise in
Kilian Druck, a printing house based near Worms in Germany, has recently
the number of Smart phones in the past 18 months has resulted
introduced its ‘Active Label’ package, which connects packaging to
in a huge increase in the AR user base and several ‘Augmented
Internet or POS display terminal applications. Photograph: Kilian Druck.
Reality Browsers’ have been introduced to the market. The
The ‘Hidden Park’ iPhone App turns actual public parks into fantasy
The Wikitude ‘World Browser’ shows local attractions,
playgrounds. Photograph: Bulpadok.
restaurants etc. across the screen of a Smart phone.
Photograph: Mobilizy GmbH
18 <
july • 2011
2011 • july
> 19
NEWS
NEWS
format printing business was still like ‘a bunch of wild west
format Xerox, Ricoh, Canon, Océ and other equipment, could
companies’ that operated from garages with just one or two
easily be adapted to wide format printing. However, this was
large digital wide format printing machines, a few operators
only the first stage of the process. The second stage involved
and a boss who dealt with customers, smoked a cigar and drove
the provision of more workflow tools around the production
an 1968 Chevrolet Impala.
systems. These tools were already available in the small format
But the business came of age. Nowadays a lot of wide format
nue growth of 26 %, EFI’s business in the EMEA
print business but being used much less in the wide format
printing companies operate in the same way as their former
region showed a 42 % YoY increase, the highest
print business.
‘small format sisters’ (or aunties). They face the same problems
for any region in the world.
A bit of history
more critical than ever before. As a result they require support
We can only guess and attempt to analyse the reason for this.
in terms of administration, tracking and tracing, delivery and
The introduction of small format digital printing on demand in
approval via the web more than ever before.
ment highlighted a dramatic upswing in business in the EMEA (Europe, Middle East and
“Our amazing start to 2011 in EMEA, can be
traced back to our decision to continue innovation across the board, when most companies
cut back due to the recession. All of our prodsaw significant growth in the EMEA region in
Instead of printing almost ten jobs in offset printing, you had to
Digital Workflow Experience
print 25 or more jobs in digital small format printing (because
Time for EFI to demonstrate what it can do in this area. At recent
of the smaller runs per job) to maintain previous volumes. Print
exhibitions - Sign & Digital UK, FESPA Digital and SGIA – we
providers soon felt the need for a streamlined workflow system,
were able to see what the company can provide in this respect.
with a connection to the administrative part, to keep track not
It displayed the latest and pre-release versions of its products at
only of the jobs themselves, but also of the corresponding admi-
the 12th annual Connect Users’ Conference, which took place at
nistration. People started developing web-to-print systems, for
the Wynn Las Vegas at end of April and was sold out. In addition
that reduce cost, streamline operations and lead
easy print file delivery with fewer errors; MIS systems, to track
to having access to a wide range of educational sessions, user
to new, high margin applications. Our num-
jobs during the workflow; proofing cycles, to ensure that the job
group meetings, speakers and exhibitors, Connect attendees
bers show that for these products, they turn
was printed correctly and being seen (as a PDF) and approved by
were the first to see demonstrations and test drive the latest
the customer; etc.
EFI products before their release. This year the focus was on
integration between the various EFI offerings.
EFI displays the
latest versions of its
total print solutions
ly and the good news was that the announce-
ucts, Fiery, MIS, DSF, VUTEk/Rastek and Jetrion
the mid nineties led to an increase in the number of print jobs.
Digital Workflow Experience
The EFI Q1 2011 results were published recent-
Africa) region. With a total year-on-year reve-
in terms of smaller runs, more administration and customers
VUTEk TX3250R
Ready for the future
strated that the technology originally developed for small
Daily grind
The Digital Workflow Experience - a demonstration of an inte-
Whilst the small digital printing business was facing this daily
grated workflow from submission to output – was a definite
grind and wanted to solve these production problems, the wide
highlight in the lab area. The demonstration followed a job from
Q1,” stated Paul Cripps, Vice-President and Managing Director of EFI EMEA.
“Companies in Europe proved more resilient
and resourceful when facing today’s new challenges,” he added.“They know that they can
only win by investing in innovative products
to EFI and its end-to-end fully integrated portfolio of printing hardware, software and inks.
Ultimately we are able to increase our customer’s market share, enabling them to drive more
profit. Throughout the recession, we continued
to invest approximately 20 % of our revenue
in R&D and actively recruited in the region. As
a result, our innovations are now ready when
businesses need them.” Sounds great, Paul!
Description of the totally integrated workflow EFI is able to deliver.
The Power of Workflow
ACQUISITION
MANAGEMENT
PREP
PRODUCTION
Rastek
Fiery XF
Flatbed and hybrid wide-format printers and inks at an
affordable price for mid-sized print companies.
RUN LIST
By Ton Rombout
We have seen an impressive range of new products from EFI in recent months. It
is now one of the few companies in the world that provide what could be referred
to as a ‘total print solution’.
T
Monarch MIS/ERP,
Radius MIS/ERP,
Pace MIS OR
PrintSmith MIS
Digital
StoreFront
FILES
Award winning superwide printers and inks delivering high
definition output at up to 5 meter widths.
CATALOG
RFQ
Digital StoreFront
Point of Sale
Search
All
Go
he company, which originally gained a repu-
Integration
tation as a global developer of Raster Image
Now the time has come for EFI to show the printing world how
Processing equipment, in particular the EFI Fiery
all these pieces of the puzzle can be combined into one overall,
range, recently acquired print equipment fac-
and fully integrated, working production system in a print envi-
tories such as VUTEk, Jetrion and Rastek. It also
ronment. Soon after the acquisition of VUTEk several years ago,
focuses on workflow tools as demonstrated by the acquisitions
EFI started to supply all the VUTEk wide format printers with
of Pace and Monarch print MIS systems.
a dedicated version of the EFI Fiery RIP systems. This demon-
PRICE
RUN LIST
SPECS
Advanced PDF workflow
with automated preflight,
color management and
processing for proofing
and production.
Jetrion
SPECS
FILES
FILES
STATUS
Industrial Inkjet Systems for label converters,
and direct mail and packaging printers.
STATUS
INVOICE
PAYMENT
REORDER
Customized customer desktops for
Internet-based catalogs,
communication, order submission
and management.
VUTEk
SPECS
Global print business and production
management for planning, scheduling,
ticketing, inventory, data collection,
status, financial, and reporting.
Fiery Central
and Fiery
RUN LIST
SPECS
FILES
Production
Page Output
Fiery® Print servers providing high fidelity output at
up to 2000 ppm, including the most complex variable
data projects. Fiery Central providing control,
efficiency and speed for multiple output devices.
Copyright © 2010 EFI, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
20 <
july • 2011
2011 • july
> 21
NEWS
much for smaller operators. And, particularly in the wide format
print business, relatively smaller companies with fewer than ten
employees are the mainstay of our branch.
The new Radius software comes with a standard suite of
modules with a streamlined user interface to ensure that smaller companies can quickly and easily introduce the software to
improve efficiency and simplify workflows. The latest version of
the Radius Enterprise Edition was also being shown and included corrugated packaging support, complex carton processing
and other enhancements.
The next version of EFI Digital StoreFront was also being
previewed. It included the new DSF Forums, an online user
community; Google Analytics, to track user behaviour online;
a new tax preparation service and enhanced Fiery integration,
including the handling of mixed media.
The Fiery solutions area of the lab displayed the latest server
solutions integrated with Web-to-Print and MIS. The latest
version of the Command WorkStation print job management
software with features that improve image quality, colour output, usability, and imposition workflows, was previewed too.
Attendees were also able to find out more about EFI’s enterprise
EFI booth during FESPA Digital Hamburg.
printing products, SendMe, Fiery VUE and its latest PrintMe
EFI Digital StoreFront web-to-print solution, to both EFI Pace and
products for mobile and cloud printing.
EFI Monarch print MIS systems, to Fiery XF production RIP and
Users in the wide format printing business might well be overw-
then to a new EFI VUTEk printer. “This year the lab area has the
helmed by all this information and may need to ask for advice on
largest range of demonstrations and products across our port-
what would be the most effective solution for their particular
folio ever shown at Connect - the perfect match for our largest
needs. EFI is proud, however, to be at the cutting edge of new
ever group of customers in attendance,” stated Frank Mallozzi,
developments. Sometimes the company has even been ahead
Senior Vice President worldwide sales and marketing, EFI.
of developments in providing a solution that turned out to be
Conference attendees were able to see the latest versions of EFI
significant but not until ten years later. That said, EFI will always
Print MIS offerings. The new PrintStream Fulfillment module
provide a clear overview of all the possibilities.
for Pace and Monarch was on display for the first time and the
recently launched EFI Radius Small Business Edition made its
PrintMe
debut too.
PrintMe is a typical example of this type of solution. This mobile
printing application, which has been on the market for more
EFI user conferences are always busy.
EFI Radius Small Business Edition
than a decade and was perhaps launched a bit before its time,
As a journalist who has monitored these developments for
is now coming into its own. PrintMe enables users to send print
years, I feel that this small business edition is extremely impor-
to any PrintMe enabled printer from their smart phone or tablet
tant. Many of the companies in this field are too small to employ
computer. When the file is sent they receive a code, which
the rather complicated EFI Digital StoreFront solution. It suits
enables them to securely retrieve print from the target device.
the needs of larger print companies very well, but could be too
Although the fact that most tablets have no printing capability
Printing in the cloud is here and now!
produced great hilarity at times, users are tired of having to
place the tablet on the glass of a copier to get printed output,
or e-mail the file to their desktop computer, introducing more
tethering into mobiles than necessary. It will be interesting to
hear future announcements regarding PrintMe as more and
more tablets and smart phones come onto the market. PrintMe
terminals can be purchased for almost any copier/printer and
can also be embedded in Fiery controllers. Because it does not
limit printing capability to any particular brand, this cloudbased mobile print offering is also a good option for Managed
Service Providers, who are taking over multiple-vendor fleets,
or enterprises that want to add this capability to their multiple
vendor fleets.
22 <
july • 2011
TEST
TEST
to print roll material in addition to plate material, is now also
be exchanged without interrupting production. Furthermore, a
available. This unroll and roll unit can handle rolls up to 50 kg
refillable 660 ml ink cartridge has been developed specifically
and adds another 200 kg to the printer’s own weight, which
for the JFX series. Not only does it contain more ink, you now
for the JFX-1615plus amounts to 1313 kg and the JFX-1631plus to
merely have to exchange the ink bag in the cartridge and replace
no less than 1631 kg. The unroll/roll unit can also be installed at
the corresponding consumption record chip. This reduces the
a later date.
amount of waste you have to dispose of.
Resolution, LED and ink sets
Adjustment and maintenance
Compared to the previous successful JF series, the JFX series
The structure of the JFX series deviates slightly from other
adds a number of features. Firstly, the maximum resolution
tables in this segment. The print carriage with the heads also
of 1200 x1200 dpi makes it possible to produce highly detailed
comprises the maintenance station and a parking position to
prints. Users can also resort to Mimaki’s ‘Giza’ technology, a
check the heads. It protrudes considerably over the table edges.
reference to the Egyptian pyramids dominated by triangular
Materials up to 5 cm thick can be printed on the table. The print
shapes. Printed runs are finished with edges similar to the shape
carriage height can be adjusted manually via the control panel,
of shark’s teeth. It produces even looking prints without the
although the printer can also automatically define the thick-
striped lawn effect in bi-directional prints or stripe formation,
ness of the material to be printed. The table is equipped with a
and has a positive impact on flat imposition colours. Higher
vacuum system with individually adjustable zones (2 zones on
resolution prints also suffice for the shortest viewing distances.
the small table, 4 zones on the large table). The vacuum pump
Merely as a result of this, the operating range of this printer has
can be positioned below the table or in a separate area.
been considerably extended compared to the JF series, which
The table is totally flat and has no fixed guide. However, screw
was mainly used for major outdoor advertising objects.
holes are available to attach tappets or a guide rule to the side.
However, there are even more features that enhance the prin-
Similar to the smaller UJF-3042, which we discussed earlier,
ter’s applicability. Firstly, the LED UV drying feature. Thin or heat
these tappets can also be used to quickly place material holders
sensitive materials that crinkle or curl up under a conventional
with objects to be printed in a fixed position on the table.
UV lamp can be printed seamlessly on this printer. LED UV also
With the JFX series the built-in maintenance station ensures
has the advantage of much lower energy consumption, not only
that the operator can leave some of the maintenance opera-
during printing. UV LEDs don’t need to be warmed up and can
tions to be executed by the printer. There are three different
be switched on and off without delay at any time.
cleaning cycles during which a built-in wiper and extraction
The JFX series is available with two different ink sets, hard
system dispose of excess ink. Once the heads have reached the
L100 ink and flexible L200 ink for hybrid use. The L100 ink set
correct temperature, all that is needed at the start is a normal
comprises CMTK, white and recently added transparent ink. The
automatic cleaning cycle. It is advisable, however, to check the
latter option is not available with the L200 ink set. The printer
heads now and again and, if necessary, remove any ink residue
has two slots for each colour to ensure that ink cartridges can
or dust accumulated on the print carriage.
Two ink cartridges per colour ensure that exchanges
can be made during printing.
The JFX-1631 in demonstration area at Mimaki
Europe.
Post curing increases the maximum
Mimaki JFX Plus Series
print speed but reduces the print area.
A champion in versatility
This edition focuses on the Mimaki JFX Plus series. As a successor to the JF series of flatbed
Surprises
printers the JFX is now equally widely available. After its initial introduction this LED UV equip-
The Mimaki JFX suddenly appeared two years ago and was
ped printer was extended with further options such as the ability to print not only with white
one of the few surprises at FESPA Digital 2009 in Amsterdam.
Following its introduction several additional options were
but also with transparent ink. We went to take a look at the Mimaki JFX at the Mimaki Europe
added to the JFX, hence the X in the name. The main adjustment
demonstration area in Diemen.
relates to the post curing option, which was added to increase
By: Herman Hartman
the maximum feasible print speed. The printer version equipped
with post curing is listed in the catalogue as JFXplus.
Similar to the previous JF series two print formats are available,
i.e. 160 x 150 cm (JFX-1615plus) or 160 x 310 cm (JFX-1631plus).
Another option, the roll to roll unit which makes it possible
24 <
july • 2011
2011 • july
> 25
TEST
A small pin on the printer can automatically detect the head height adjustment.
Refillable ink cartridge.
Control
Post curing
We looked at the JFX-1631 Plus equipped with the L100 ink set
With the addition of post curing we can achieve maximum 23.6
with transparent ink. In the showroom the company’s own
m2 in a production mode for outdoor applications that would
Rasterlink Pro 5 RIP is used to control the printer. Obviously this
sell successfully. It should be noted, however, that due to the
RIP is adapted to the use of white and transparent ink. This also
position of the UV beam for post curing 20 cm of the length
means that you can indicate in various ways how to select white
to be printed will be lost on both sides of the table. This makes
or transparent from the entered file. Even if the file has not been
post curing a useful feature mainly on the larger JFX-1631. On the
prepared in advance with extra colours/layers to indicate the
JFX-1615 the remaining surface to be printed is relatively small.
white and transparent parts, this information can be added to
The smaller table in particular is currently the favourite option
the RIP. For instance the ‘valid pixels’ option can be used to print
for many screen printers who want to supplement their manual
white only in those locations where the print is lacking colour.
or semi-automatic tables with a digital all-rounder for limited
Where necessary trapping can be applied to prevent misregi-
format hard materials. The print format of current screen prin-
stration. This involves choking or spreading an underlying white
ting tables often does not exceed the 160 x 150 cm print format.
colour at the edges.
At a cost of approximately 90,000 euro this is a manageable
Another important control aspect is the ink curing moment.
investment.
Again this can be controlled via the RIP. This aspect is important
However, it might be worth their while to consider the longer
in practical applications to define the gloss of not only transpa-
version, which does cost 25,000 euro more, but would enable
rent ink but of all inks. Delay results in a higher gloss. Because
them to place the next order ready for processing on the other
the print is perfectly motionless on the printer, curing can even
half of the table and, where necessary, print larger plates in
be delayed until the last layer has been applied. In such cases
one run.
the ink will run so that this effect is usually achieved mainly
With their range of options the JFX series tables are suitable
with transparent ink, which is applied to the print subsequently.
for users with a wide variety of different orders. A pure print
provider, who mainly prints large plates without extras, would
Condition Management
find it more difficult to make the JFX series profitable (the same
All these settings can be recorded in the Condition Management
applies to other flat table printers and hybrid printers with com-
section of the RIP. When using transparent ink a special emboss
parable production rates).
setting is available to apply height and gloss in three to eight
Giza produces an even print.
extra passes. This is useful, for example, for droplet effects on
Challenge
an otherwise matt print.
Whereas in the past the operator’s main challenge was to
The combination of transparent and white ink will produce
maintain the printer in top condition to ensure constant print
quite a few special effects. The drawback associated with its
quality, they can now busy themselves exploring the system’s
use is that you have to take into account a much longer printing
many possibilities. It will be necessary, however, to define limits
time as extra passes are needed to achieve the targeted effect.
for profitability. With all these potential special effects you need
If there is no need for transparent ink it can be replaced with
to evaluate whether the additional return you could command
extra white to achieve much higher coverage in a single pass.
justifies the required extra printing time.
This could be a requirement, for example with machine panels.
26 <
april • 2011
DEVELOPMENTS
DEVELOPMENTS
4
work of the customers while explaining the different aspects of
Because of their flexibility and light weight characteristics, box
production parameters. Similar to supporting the Fespa Digital
frames with deco style textile are ideal for stand designs. This
Textile Conference for exchanging information with industry
Euroshop 2011 example is one of many textile based designs.
experts, HPS invests in bringing together technology partners,
The right inks and artwork facilitate a more appealing marke-
media manufacturers and trade organisations in its competen-
ting approach.
ce center.. Besides the obvious demonstration of its products,
5
HPS shows application examples as shown in this emblemata.
This ‘fence fabric’ can be used for events and local promotion.
HPS Gold Sponsor of Digital Textile Conference
Explaining possibilities
by example
Hollanders Printing Systems (HPS) was Gold Sponsor of the Fespa Digital Textile Conference.
Staged alongside FESPA Digital and FESPA Fabric at Messe Hamburg, this 1 day conference
provided an international line-up of digital textile printing experts, ready to share a wealth
of knowledge, experience and insight into the latest innovative products, trends, case stu-
8
dies and trade secrets.
By Ton Rombout
O
properly with water based high energy disperse inks it has the
Since the introduction of the ColorBooster XL, HPS has suc-
same image on the back, similar to flags, and retains the UV
cessfully sold its 3.2 m wide industrial digital direct textile
resistance necessary for outdoor use.
print production platform throughout the world. Its success is
6
largely due to its modular construction, which enables custo-
The difference between various types of media: colour repro-
mers to select equipment and choose configurations to suit
duction could be an issue. The brand owner is faced with
their business requirements. Each component – printer, fixator,
unnecessary differences in looks and colours.
washer, cutter – can be used as a stand-alone product and fits
7
existing production set-ups. Combined however, it offers eco-
Promotional dresses can add to the marketing mix. Digital
nomical and environmental advantages. The ColorBooster XL
printing is the perfect vehicle for single pieces and one-offs.
320 flagship product was developed with a modular approach
Marketeers and brand owners can explore new ways of visual
in mind. Customers have the freedom to choose which print
communication.
heads best suit their operation. Choice of ink includes options
8
for indoor direct sublimation, outdoor disperse direct, acid and
The use of lightweight material with a wide colour gamut ena-
reactive. Low energy sublimation ink is less durable and has
bles designers to create visual communication that would have
less UV resistance. High energy disperse inks derive their name
been problematic using traditional methods. Material portabi-
from the fact that they need more energy to ‘extract’ the colour
lity is important for logistics and application.
pigments out of the ink, but their UV durability is much better.
9
Moreover, high energy disperse inks are suitable for both indoor
The all time favourite: flags. Colours will last longer using high
and outdoor prints.
7
5
energy disperse direct inks. With controlled ink delivery, print
produce, especially with their own platform of solutions. It is
through and sharpness are guaranteed. Once a flag has been
Constant improvement
textile printing will go hand in hand, but over time
very important to explain to people what they could achieve
washed the coating and ink residue are gone.
Whereas other printer manufacturers would sell improvements
digital will gain the upper hand. Furthermore,
using an industrial digital printing solution other than the con-
digital printing, especially in an industrial environ-
ventional method. “As much as we like to sell our products and
Pay-off
systems. HPS’ modular approach to building systems pays off
solutions, it all starts with understanding the applications they
HPS has a different approach to having customers make a
and enables system owners to use the latest technology if and
are built for. We feel it is not enough to simply sell based on
balanced decision on what equipment they purchase for their
when required, without the need to invest in a new system.
1% of the total market
samples and marketing figures, it is important to demonstrate
specific production requirements. Instead of relying on marke-
Customers, who started out with the ColorBooster XL based on
However, we should remember that we are still talking about 1
why we focus solely and wholly on digital textile.”
ting spin and general product information, HPS invites people to
Epson print heads and then switched to Seiko print heads on the
visit their facility to get hands-on demonstrations, using the art-
same printer, are the perfect example of this.
% of the total market for textile printing. Most important con-
3
Hollanders Printing Systems
ne of its conclusions was that analogue and digital
ment, has many interesting benefits.
2
The holes in the material allow the air to pass through. Printed
clusion was that ‘digital textile’ is very versatile. It all depends
We therefore include nine examples of digitally produced work
on where one puts the division line of what textile printing can
demonstrating what you can achieve in a format referred to by
be. One must identify the differences in for instance garment/
17th century painters and poets as ‘emblemata’: a picture with
apparel, visual communication, sampling and specialty. HPS
explanatory text.
did not feel the need to speak during the conference, but to be
1
the Gold Sponsor for the event. The goal was to support this
Lightweight material that can easily be mounted as a backdrop.
initiative that supports the industry, without emphasizing on
Digital direct printing offers freedom of design. Brand owners
its own company or its products. For HPS, the DTC was a good
are assured of the right colour and correct installation.
opportunity to underline the need for sharing information. With
2
speakers such as Jos Notermans, Mike Horsten, John Provost,
Promotional design can greatly benefit from opportunities in
Sophie Matthews-Paul, Mickael Mheidle and others, the event
carpet printing and on heavy weight decoration material. More
proved to be a well-received exercise.
application specific production is possible with textile.
as new models, HPS offers them as upgrade options for existing
6
Info: www.hollanders-ps.nl
1
9
3
4
28 <
july • 2011
Talking by example
Euroshop 2011 had an enormous wealth of back-lit showcases.
Roland Biemans, Marketing Manager of HPS, loves to show
Water based disperse direct inks are well suited for outdoor, but
and discuss examples of what digital textile printing is able to
also for indoor applications such as this one.
2011 • july
> 29
NEWS
NEWS
The driven roll input and driven roll output, with balance
control, and driven pressure rolls on the print bed ensure
that even less manageable media can be processed wit-
on the same basic frame but with the inclusion of UV lamps for
is the fact that the print head can be adjusted over a longer dis-
use with UV inks.
tance. Admittedly the beam remains in situ and only the head
height is adjusted, but this does create extra scope. The height
hout slipping.
Print head carriage
adjustment has to be accurate though, otherwise the print
The bridge across the print bed will, therefore, support more
image is distorted, which is the drawback of the relatively small
than just the weight of the print head transfer system. The first
droplets fired by the Ricoh heads.
thing you notice is that the print bed with transfer system is
totally visible. There is no protective hood and consequently no
Maintenance
option to extract ink vapour emissions. Even though the ‘eco
Those who have used a Roland or Mutoh printer for produc-
solvent’ ink used in the system is a relatively mild solvent ink,
tion purposes until now and are intending to upscale to larger
the recommendation is to install an extraction unit above the
formats and volumes, will find the fact that operators have to
printer. The printer has been specifically developed to produce
carry out various maintenance operations themselves discon-
larger volumes and at a production speed of 50 m2 per hour a
certing. The system includes a head parking mode and separate
considerable amount of solvent is released. Furthermore, with
maintenance station. After being rinsed the heads are parked
an unprotected print bed extra care needs to be taken with res-
for the night.
pect to stray air flows directly across the print bed as they could
The day starts with refilling, firing and cleaning the heads.
destabilise the ink droplets.
These operations are controlled via the printer control panel
and by switching the valves in the vacuum system. Finally the
Mid volume printer
with potential
Media handling
nozzle plates need to be cleaned with a cloth. During the day the
The design is particularly focused on media handling. The robust
printer ensures that very small amounts of ink are fired regularly
printer has a driven roll input and driven roll output, both equip-
when in rest position. This requires little attention, although it
ped with balance control. The pressure rollers on the print bed
is important to check before each print job that all nozzles are
are also driven to ensure that even less manageable media can
available. The ink tanks, which can contain up to 1 litre of ink per
be processed without slipping. The system will process rolls up
colour, are equipped with level sensors and the set-up includes
to 130 kg in weight.
an active ink vacuum system. The valves on top of the print
Another indication that his printer will handle different media
carriage ensure that ink or cleaning fluid is sent to the head, or
The ink store and rinsed ink collector are positioned
neatly alongside one another.
Looking inside it is clear that the electronics have
been incorporated with the utmost care.
Digitex Gunsjet SR-2508 solvent printer
The new Chinese based Digitex Gunsjet SR-2508 solvent printer is already being sold in some European countries. For example Sign Top, which is based in the Benelux, started delivering Digitex inks in 2010. These inks
can be used in different brands of printers.
T
By: Herman Hartman
his year Digitex also added a range of printers,
Gunsjet roll to roll printers are equipped with the new Ricoh
which are developed in China, under its own
Gen-4 print heads with a fixed 7 Pico litre droplet size. The
label. They are optimised for use with Digitex
printers are supplied with 8 heads, with 2 x 192 nozzles per
ink. Sign Top is also introducing these printers
head. Configured in 2 x CMYK mode the 2.5 m version (Gunsjet
in the Benelux. We had a look at the Digitex
SR-2508) reaches maximum 63 m2 per hour (600 x 600dpi
Gunsjet SR-2508 in Sign Top’s Antwerp showroom.
4 pass bi-directional). The 3.2 m version achieves more than
70 m2 per hour with this setting. The Ricoh print heads make
30 <
july • 2011
Ricoh Gen-4 heads
print resolutions up to 1.200 x 1.200 dpi feasible. The Digitex
Digitex can deliver the Gunsjet in three different widths, i.e.
catalogue includes more Gunsjet options, including a version
1.8 m, 2.5 m and 3.2 m. Weighing between 800 and 1,000 kg,
with 6 heads and a 6 colour ink set and a version for use with
depending on the model, these are true heavyweights. Digitex
textile inks. Another version has been developed in China based
2011 • july
> 31
NEWS
NEWS
that the lines are vented if the vacuum has been switched off
into account a lower print speed, although it is still considerably
for a long time.
higher than that of other printers currently used for this purpose
Trains wrapped by MegaMark with the use of Hexis products.
by most sign makers.
Dry
The Gunsjet is supplied with Colorprint RIP, adapted for use
In order to promote ink adhesion and drying the printer is equip-
with this printer. The control software for the printer is installed
ped with three separately adjustable heaters in the print pad.
alongside the RIP on the same computer. Even though a number
Supplemented by a bar holding the fans, the complete set up
of specific parameters can be incorporated in the RIP, such as
ensures that the print can be developed successfully with the
the number of passes to be printed, the latter can also be ente-
highest number of print units. The theoretical maximum speed
red in the control software.
was approximately 63 m2 on the model I looked at. A suitable
HEXIS venturing across the border
outdoor quality print is produced at approximately 50 m2 in 4
Finally
pass mode. In principle the small droplet size should enable you
The capacity and print width of the Gunsjet fills a gap between
to achieve considerable detailing, but whether or not it works
the high volume roll to roll printers, which are increasingly
Configured in 2 x CMYK mode the Gunsjet SR-2508
depends on the media you use. Printers such as this Digitex
equipped with UV ink and used by major print providers, and
achieves maximum 63 m per hour.
Gunsjet will mainly print mesh, backlit canvas, banner canvas,
the standard 1.6 m printers currently used by many sign makers.
etc. Because of the material properties of this type of media,
A Gunsjet will easily produce 40,000 m2 annually or more than
which is often viewed from greater distances, the print is less
double in day shifts, subject to specific preconditions. Operator
detailed. You should consequently not be seduced by the high
skill is a significant factor. You need to be able to produce enou-
resolutions that can be achieved with this printer as they will
gh m2 consecutively as a media change on a 2.5 or 3.2 m printer
not be needed for many of the applications. These 7 Pico litre ink
is not that straightforward. Everything about this printer is ‘big’,
heads have probably been selected on account of the viscosity
which suggests that you need sufficient space.
2
New cast vinyls
of the ink and high firing speed of the heads, as a result of which
relatively few heads are needed to apply sufficient ink at the
The 1.8 m Gunsjet is priced in the catalogue at approximately
quoted print speeds. (Five years ago this type of 3.2 m printers
35,000 euro, whereas the 3.2 m version costs close to 40,000
often used to have 16 or more heads firing 30 Pico litre droplets).
euro. Combined with an ink price of approximately 45 euro
Obviously the Gunsjet will also print self-adhesive media. In
per litre, the Gunsjet also fills the price gap between standard
such cases you would not use the entire printing width, particu-
prints from sign makers and the high volume printers at print
larly on the 2.5 and 3.2 m versions, and you would have to take
providers.
Digitex Gunsjet in the showroom.
The French company Hexis is venturing across the border with subsidiaries in
By Ton Rombout
Germany (Hexis GmbH), Guadeloupe (Hexis FWI), Italy (Hexis Italia), Spain (Hexis
Graphics España) and the United States (Hexis USA).
French Railways celebrate the 30th anniversary of the TGV
To celebrate the 30th anniversary of the TGV
high speed train in style the operator has
wrapped a 200 m long train in special livery.
H
Megamark, a leading French provider of visual communication and signage solutions for 20
year, was in charge of the technical design and
EXIS has adopted a strategy of differentiati-
effect film available in White, Pearl White, Silver, Charcoal Grey,
on based on a competitive edge in product
Black, Red, Blue, Mirror Silver and Mirror Gold. This film can be
innovation, originality and technical per-
stretched and applied to wing mirrors and other hard to wrap
formance. The company manufactures
items. The Alligator Skin effect is available in Silver, Gold and
four types of films: colour films for signage
Black. The Sequin effect is available in Silver, Gold and Black. The
and vehicle marking, cast films for vehicle
Variochrome effect is available in Pearl White, Pearl Oyster, Pearl
rior wraps. Some 1600 m2 of vinyl film were
wraps, media for wide format digital printing and protective
Rose, Beetle, Gold/Pink, Orange/Pink and Green/Blue. There is
required, both digital printing films and techni-
and laminate films.
also a Brushed Aluminium version along with Satin White, Satin
cal films. The special anniversary TGV has been
Black, Super Matt Black, Satin Military Green and Satin Frozen
Status in France
Grey Metallic.
In France HEXIS now has 223 employees and distributes its
products through three regional sales offices: Mery-sur-Oise
HX20000 series
(Paris region), Villeurbanne (Lyons region) and Dax (South-West
In addition to the special effect HX30000 series Hexis also
France). HEXIS exports more than 40 % of its sales and had a
supplies the HX20000 series, which is an 80µm multi-layered
consolidated turnover of 43 million euro in 2009. The company
cast PVC technology wrapping film in over 40 gloss and metal-
was awarded ISO 9001 certification for its quality management
lic colours. This product is manufactured specifically for colour
system in June 2005. In line with its sustainable development
changing or wrapping applications and will be available in 1520
policy, HEXIS is considering implementing an environmental
mm wide (currently 1370 mm). The HX20000 series is also sup-
management system according to ISO 14001. HEXIS has been
plied with the Hex’Press adhesive system, which facilitates easy
manufacturing its own cast films, mainly for vehicle wrapping,
application without air bubbles or creases.
application of the HEXIS films. In 2008 the company employed 240 people and achieved a turnover of 37.2 million euro.
SNCF (French railway operator) specified
HEXIS adhesive films for the interior and exte-
touring through France since 16 April and will
continue to do so until 14 July 2011. It has already
been on display in Paris, Lyons, Montpellier and
several other cities.
HX 20000, an 80µm multi-layered cast PVC technology wrapping film in over 40 gloss and metallic colours.
since 2008. To this end the company has invested 2 million euro
in the construction of a new building and machinery at the cutting edge of technology in Dax.
Leading signage products
The new HX30000 series has a range of 29 effects. HX30000
films are cast vinyls especially designed for full vehicle wraps.
HX 30000 cast vinyls especially designed for full vehicle wraps.
The film consists of a multi-layered cast PVC. Because of its
extreme flexibility and high conformability, fast and risk free
transfers are practically guaranteed. It is recommended in
particular for complex compound curved surfaces and long
term outdoor applications. The special effect HX30000 series
is an innovative multi-layered technology cast PVC film unique
to Hexis. The HX30000 series is supplied with a Hex’Press
adhesive system, which facilitates easy application without air
bubbles or creases. The series consists of a true Carbon Fibre
32 <
july • 2011
2011 • july
> 33
TEST
NEWS
TEST
adjustable four section vacuum ensures that the printed media
remain flat. The printer is supplied with a roll input and roll collector for flexible media and connectable input/output table.
The table does not have to be removed completely to switch
from table to roll.
Height adjustment
Even though it is equipped with all the necessary features,
in some respects the H 652 is a true entry level printer. For
EfI Rastek H 652
example, print head height has to be adjusted manually. The UV
light sources are equipped with mechanical closing devices and
Hybrid with an individual character
only have two positions. With the necessary control software
options this provides various ways to control curing behaviour,
although this requires a skilled operator. Operator expertise also
plays a part in the occasional fine tuning of the heads’ firing
EfI supplies a number of UV ink equipped printers under the Rastek label, which could be considered entry
By: Herman Hartman
behaviour, in which the droplet firing timing can be adapted to
level models for this market segment. EfI set up its own dealer network specifically for the distribution of
special media. This function is also used to prevent nozzle wear.
Rastek printers.
W
34 <
july • 2011
Assembly
Maintenance
e looked at the Rastek H 652, a hybrid printer
ket hybrid UV printers built in China and adapted in the US.
The hybrid models are still built in China, as is the H652 which
The printer also has intelligent maintenance features. The head
equipped with four colours + white. It is the
Following a tentative start, the Rastek printers increasingly
was the focus of this test. The current range also includes two
maintenance cleaning system eliminates the need for manual
faster version of the Rastek H650, which remains
gained attention in the home market. This brand of hybrid prin-
flatbed printers, the T 650 and T1000, different in format but
head cleaning. It is advisable not to touch the heads to prevent
ters became popular within various US franchise chains, which
not in print engine parts. Although the H 652 uses the same
damage to the nozzles. To keep the system running smoothly
account for a significant share of the local sign market, including
Toshiba Tec heads, some of its components are different from
the nozzles need only be fired over the collector a couple of
American roots
companies such as Signarama.
the flat table models. The T650 and T1000 can handle even
times a day. Any residue is then removed via an extraction
Rastek is originally an American UV printer brand. At first the
In 2008 Raster Printers was taken over by EfI, which introduced
more intricate details. Not only because objects remain moti-
system. Switching off the printer for the night, or the weekend,
company behind the brand was a start-up company operating
the Rastek printers under the existing Rastek label alongside
onless on the table, but also because the encoder strips on the
is easy. The vacuum in the lines is maintained by a back-up
under the name Raster Printers. The founders of Raster Printers
VUTEk printers. 2008 was also the year when exports to Europe
T 650 and T1000 have an accuracy of no less than 3 micron. The
feature. Should the vacuum be partly lost, all is not lost as the
previously worked for Raster Graphics in the US, which had been
took off. The EfI take-over led to additional R&D efforts and
encoder strips record the position of the print heads. The UV
operator can vent the lines manually.
taken over earlier by Océ.
expansion of the range with flatbed printers, which are now
light sources on the T models can also be dimmed electronically.
The printer is equipped with a highly advanced ink system. The
In 2004 Raster Printers took the plunge and started to mar-
built in the US.
The H 652 is equipped with a media transport conveyor. The
1 litre ink bottles are connected to a vacuum system just in front
part of the range.
Simple but intelligent ink system.
These four switches are used to activate/deactivate
the suction zone below the conveyor belt.
2011 • july
> 35
TEST
The front guide, which is installed manually.
C0NFERENCE
of the heads. Filters on both the ink bottles and heads should
Print speed
prevent blocking of the nozzles. The filters are easily accessible
The print speed of the H652 varies between 43 m2 per hour in 2
to ensure that a trained operator can replace them.
pass Express mode and 7.4 m2 per hour in 16 pass ultra Quality
The five grey scale heads, each with two rows of nozzles, can fire
mode. The speed is halved if white is used. It remains to be seen
droplets varying between 6 and 42 Pico litre. They are equipped
whether Express mode would be used frequently. In 2 pass
with built-in water cooling, which keeps the operating tempera-
mode there is a high risk of visible failure of the nozzles and,
ture of the heads at 38 degrees.
more importantly, you would not reach the maximum feasible
The printer does not have an individual control panel. The con-
colour strength, which is of specific importance when printing
trol software for the printer is installed on the PC containing the
canvas or boards that will be viewed from a great distance.
RIP. The software can be used to set various parameters such as
Quality mode, with almost 24 m2 per hour, seems to be a better
the temperature in the heads, adjustment of firing timing, etc.
choice for outdoor advertising production. High Quality mode
It also handles the transmission of ripped data. In this case the
and Ultra Quality mode are ideal for items that will be viewed
number of passes is exclusively selected in the RIP, similar to the
close up and can be used indoors. We did notice, however, that
combination of print orders which is controlled via the RIP.
when using a white base the results were not always even in
Ultra Quality. In such cases one of the flat table printers in the
Rastek range would be more appropriate to get the best results.
The head cleaning station.
This tool is used to adjust the head height at 1 or 1.5 mm above the substrate.
Also because of the inclusion of white ink the H 652 can be used
for many different applications. According to Efi it can even be
used to print glass (on condition that a primer is applied first).
The basic ink is suitable for both flexible and rigid media. As
The new Sphene prints on 1.8 m widths.
Fashion textile in the spotlight
Digital Textile
Conference Europe
By Herman Hartman
can be expected from today’s UV inks, the ink layer has a high
Digital textile was one of the focal points in Hamburg, where the Digital Textile
Conference Europe took place on 25 May. According to the programme, the spot-
scratch resistance. For optimum scratch resistance an extra coa-
light was mainly on developments in fashion textile, sports clothing, et cetera.
ting or laminate can be applied subject to initial testing.
T
he greater interest in fashion, rather than promotional,
this development. The company has been working on inks and
textile appears not unjustified as there are several signs
suitable printers for sample production for some time. Because
indicating that a breakthrough is expected in fashion
it produces textile inks for both digital and rotary screen prin-
textile in particular.
ting, the company knows exactly how they work. Although
to the outside world Stork Print is mainly a machine builder,
the quality magazine
e.com
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pro
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Maga
July
2011
Year
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9 - Nu
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Subscribe at www.signpro-europe.com
Europe: € 39,50 Rest of the world: € 54,50 (Online subscription included)
One percent
Jos Notermans maintains that the company is primarily an ink
Until now only 1% at the very most of fashion textile production
producer. This also means that the inks are developed entirely
has been digital. The market appears ready for short run digital
in-house. With a 60% market share in rotary screen printing, the
production, alongside rotary screen printing. So far mostly
company is a market leader in this segment and supplies both
samples and one-offs were produced digitally. Only a limited
screen printing installations and inks.
Costs per linear metre in various run lengths.
number of the wide range of samples was actually taken into
production.
Pioneer
Now the opportunity is there to do it differently. Small produc-
Stork Prints started developing its own digital printers more
tion runs of each design, up to 1,000 running metres, can be
than 22 years ago. During those pioneering early years the
produced digitally. If this is successful you can move to larger
company did everything in-house. For a long time the initially
production runs in rotary screen print, which is cheaper in large
developed continuous inkjet based printer was the backbone of
volumes. Digitally produced textile is relatively expensive but
Dupont’s proofing systems. On subsequent projects Stork Prints
textile producers no longer run the risk that part of a 3,000 to
cooperated with print head suppliers and printer manufactu-
5,000 m production run is not sold. They can also supply exclu-
rers and developed a series of printers equipped with own inks,
sive limited editions at an affordable price.
mainly for the production of textile samples.
Now the time has come to also offer short run production. At
Matching digital and screen print
FESPA Digital we had the opportunity to get acquainted with
Of course this is on condition that you achieve satisfactory, com-
the Sphene, which at 555 m2 per hour is one of the fastest
parable results on both systems. Jos Notermans, Business Unit
printers in this segment and prints on 1.8 m widths (the fashion
Manager – Digital Textiles at Stork Prints, was one of the spea-
textile standard). The 8 colour NEBULA reactive ink set for
kers at the Digital Textile Conference Europe. He demonstrated
Kyocera print heads is a new development. Stork also supplies
that a good match between digital and screen printing doesn’t
these inks to other print manufacturers, including Reggiani
have to be a problem.
(Renoir), MS (JP and JPK series) and La Meccanica (Qualijet K8
Stork Prints, a Dutch company, is definitely a front runner in
K16).
Jos Notermans of Stork Prints shows textile examples.
Or take the online subscription for only € 19,50!
2011 • july
> 37
THE INTERNATIONAL EVENT
DEVELOPMENTS
F O R V I S U A L C O M M U N I C AT I O N
12,000 professionals | 200 exhibitors | Over 500 brands
27, 28 & 29 SEPTEMBER 2011
PARIS NORD VILLEPINTE
HALL 8 – FRANCE
Air from the printer must be extracted directly.
Furnishing a printer area
By Herman Hartman
At many sign makers the printer room is an area which is often overlooked, where
little attention is paid to print conditions. Unfortunately quite a few print problems are a direct result of poor location.
Technologies, Solutions & Innovations
for Graphic Industry
SIGN
SIGNAGE
LARGE FORMAT PRINTING
SCREEN PRINTING
DYNAMIC SIGNAGE
OUTDOOR ADVERTISING
IMAGE, DESIGN & CREATION
CUTTING
ENGRAVING
MARKING
FINISHING
T
his requires special attention, particularly if the prin-
Temperature
ter is not equipped with a protective hood over the
Ambient temperature is another factor. Recommended tempe-
print pad. The hood not only extracts solvent fumes,
ratures are indicated with all operations for a reason. You will
it also regulates the air flow above the print pad.
encounter few problems between 16 and 25 degrees. Major
temperature fluctuations are also to be avoided. Particularly
Dust
with printers equipped with mild and eco solvent ink, a dif-
Draughts in the room can create printing problems as a result
ference in ambient temperature of 10 degrees will be evident
of stray airflows across the print bed. Dust is another tricky
on the print as a result of change in ink outflow. Some form of
problem. Sawing, drilling, milling and etching operations should
climate control will frequently be required since the printer itself
not be undertaken in the same area as printing. It will result in
produces heat.
frequent nozzle failure and stripes/dots on the print, particularly
if the print pad is not protected in any way. Other requirements
Fumes
such as a stable base on which to install and level the printer
It is also advisable to properly extract vapour emissions, irres-
The production room has to be clean
are equally important. A wooden floor on an upper storey often
pective of whether it is solvent, UV ink odour or ozone. The air
and with enough space.
cannot fully absorb the printer’s reactive forces, resulting in less
from the printer room must be extracted directly, with or wit-
accurate positioning of ink droplets.
hout a filter, to the outside. Directing polluted air to other work
areas in order to dilute it contravenes Arbo (Health & Safety
Humidity
at Work) regulations. Finally, adequate lighting is required for
Humidity is another key factor that needs monitoring, 50% to
colour evaluation purposes. The room should preferably be
60% is ideal. High humidity can impede drying (and disrupt the
lit with a colour temperature of 5000K and minimum Colour
operation of electronic equipment in the event of long term
Rendering Index (CRI) of 90%.
exposure). Low humidity results in printing problems on dif-
Your badge on www.viscom-paris.com
ferent media if they become static, which leads to spray and the
ink adhering in an irregular manner.
FREE CODE: CP34
2011 • july
> 39
NEWS
DEVELOPMENTS
DEVELOPMENTS
NEWS
An analysis of European sign websites
Websites revisited
About five years ago I wrote a series
of articles for SignPro Europe on the
construction and use of websites for
sign production and large format
print companies. What were the
minimum requirements a website
should meet and how could it be
used as a marketing and logistics
New developments
and competitors, and spending a relatively large amount of
Most sign and large format print companies in the rest of
time on them. We try to separate the wheat from the chaff
Europe now operate a web shop where their standard range
and participate in a meaningful way. Sometimes it may be
of products can be ordered and paid for in a straightforward
beneficial if you manage to attract attention to what your
manner. Five years ago we were aware of these developments
company has to offer in any feasible way. For example, some
but in most cases we had only just considered, or started
websites attract direct attention via news groups on LinkedIn.
adopting, them.
Providing interesting news or attractive offers on websites of
There are, however, still a few snags. Not all companies have
this nature can generate work.
incorporated the necessary logistics behind the website to
Similar to texting, Twitter can be an interesting tool to update
ensure that orders are processed quickly and efficiently. It is
customers on work in progress. These tools can be incorpora-
obvious that orders are still being processed manually by an
ted in the company’s production workflow, i.e. a text or tweet
operator at the screen. This does not exactly speed things up.
is sent automatically, for example, when a proof is ready,
Moreover, some websites still look amateurish, too technical
there is a query or the work is ready to be collected.
and are based on very poor typography and design. Even
It is important, however, to ensure that these tools are used
though they provide an extensive description of the machine
in a meaningful way when developing relationships. Too
fleet, they hardly mention the company’s unique benefits.
many ‘messages’ can be irritating, particularly if they have
little business relevance. Furthermore, the customer does
tool for the company?
By Ton Rombout
Social media
not have to be ‘disturbed’ during each stage of the project.
We are becoming more and more au fait with media such
“Just let me know when it is really necessary”, is an often
as Facebook, LinkedIn, Plaxo and Twitter. We are gathering
heard comment.
‘friends’ and ‘connections’, even amongst our arch enemies
Peknamha, Bulgaria: Large, continually changing
centre image.
Neon changes to LED
Although not directly related to the
AJ Signs, UK: Organised, no web shop.
T
development of websites, it has some
relevance. Some website names still
he articles generated a huge response. Now, five years
New impetus, better websites
refer to ‘neon’, as does the company
down the line - it is time to investigate the current state
Nevertheless, in countries such as France we have noted
name, even though LED has been
of affairs. I recently updated our address database for
considerable progress. Websites have come a long way in
the main source of income for quite
the distribution of SignPro Europe by post throughout Europe.
recent years, even though a number of them were created
some time. This applies in particular
One of our criteria to assess address value is whether a company
on the basis of ready made models. They often include a
has an active website.
web shop, with the familiar shopping trolley, and an under-
to companies in Italy and Austria.
Gnosysoft, Cyprus: Organised and animated where necessary.
lying link to the internal logistics system for processing.
This issue is generally associated with
a wider website related problem.
Rodantv, Poland: the introduction will soon come
Active website
to an end….
In up and coming economies such as Poland and Turkey a
Having an active website is, in fact, a rather poor criterion.
number of relatively young companies have, so to speak,
vey exactly what the company aims
It is, however, part of a range of criteria that are not neces-
started building a website and then designed a company
to communicate? Or is the website
sarily related to a company’s website. Another criterion
around it. There are also many mature companies now,
dated? This not only applies to the
looks at whether or not you get a response to an e-mail or
with fully fledged websites and frequently a strong com-
product range but also to concepts
phone call. But what if a sign or print company does not
mercial focus, such as advertising agencies that have
such as modernity, being up to date,
have a website? Could it still be considered a company ‘in
integrated sign production. They tend to be focused on
degree of sophistication etc. It ranges
business’? Does it, in fact, really exist? The answer is to be
commerce rather than production, as a result of which the
from a satisfactory level of response
found in the question, because often companies without
website is used more as a marketing and logistics tool. The
to e-mails to the provision of outda-
a website proved to be no longer in existence, i.e. ceased
same applies to companies of substance in England, which
ted information and is often related
trading or went bankrupt.
operate sophisticated websites where you can request a
to how easy/not easy it is to maintain
Traditionally operating screen printing companies in Spain,
quotation, upload files, check files and follow up work in
the website. Nowadays this type of
France or Italy often still consider a website ‘a necessary
progress. Standard prices and procedures apply to standard
website must be easy to maintain,
evil’. What we are usually presented with is a folder on the
work such as ordering banners, flags, oilcloth, canvas etc.
preferably by the people who handle
Internet and we have to wade through long and boring
Regular customers have access to protected areas that are
intros, which with luck can be skipped. Usually it contains
accessible only with a password and user name and offer
result is more often than not obso-
moving images with rotating spheres or rays, eccentric
all the necessary facilities to follow up work in progress.
lete information, last year’s news and
typography and other artistic expressions that are meant
Countries in the rest of Europe are following suit with res-
press releases, lack of response to
to explain that we are dealing with a company focused on
pect to these developments.
customer queries, etc.
Scanjet, France: attractive portfolio overview.
Panneau, France: the range offered by Gamma.
40 <
july • 2011
Does the company website still con-
GG Studio, Poland: looks like a door to door flyer.
Lumineon, Italy: overly long introduction.
Mediacolor, Germany: extensive portfolio, well presented.
or produce its content. If not, the
aesthetics or creativity.
2011 • july
> 41
Imagine structural design software to prepare your POPs,
signs … Image preflight, tiling and nesting software to
prepare your jobs.
Imagine the fastest, most productive, digital
finishing tables on the market today. Imagine
perfect registration on any material.
Imagine that it all works together, and with your
large format printer, seamlessly.
For the best all round digital finishing solution,
shape your future with EskoArtwork.
Shaping your future
esko.com
www.esko.com l [email protected]
Car Wrap
Special
Cast vinyl HX30000
QMultilayered cast vinyl
QFor complex compound curved
surfaces
QHEX’Press liner with structured
adhesive
QApplication without bubbles and
creases
QRepositionable during application
Q29 finishes available
Innovative adhesive technology
HX30000 films are cast vinyls specially designed for full vehicle wraps.
The film is a multilayered cast PVC. Because of its extreme flexibility and high
conformability fast and risk free transfers are practically guaranteed. It is particularly
recommended for complex compound curved surfaces and long-term outdoor
applications.
The PE-coated liner with HEX’Press adhesive facilitates air egress thus avoiding
bubbles and creases during application.
HX30000 are the ideal high-end solution for vehicle markings and other substrates
with long life cycles.
HEXIS S.A.
Z.I. Horizons Sud - CS 970003 - 34118 FRONTIGNAN CEDEX - FRANCE
Tel. (+33) 467 18 66 80 - Fax: (+33) 467 48 38 79
www.hexis-graphics.com
www.ilovehx.com

websites revisited `you ain`t seen nothing yet` - signpro

Transcription

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