Vision Asia Magazine Issue 6 - July 2014

a s i a • d i g i ta l p r i n t i n t e l l i g e n c e

The New Frontier

Transforming the b are room Will digital printing be able to move from just print into the new frontier of digital decoration. We’re already there with fabrics and textiles, clothing, wallpapers and ceramics but where to next?

Permit MCI (P) 090/03/2014

Space Asia digital decoration magazine star ts in November 2014, see page 20

ISSUE

VISION

inside • • • • •

local scene: taiwan space asia excellence awards lfp global market latest news

NEW MAGAZINE

a new REGIONAL MAGAZINE from VISION ASIA covering

DIGITAL DECORATION

This print-trade magazine will be published beginning November 2014 with information and intelligence on digitally printable products used for decorative purposes.

A new reference source specifically for those who use and supply equipment that includes textile, fabric, DtG, roll to roll, flatbed, ceramic or embroidery printers, associated systems and software - this new magazine will be of importance as an intelligence reference medium.

TO READ MORE, GO TO PAGE 20

Vision Asia Media Singapore @ sales@visionmagazine.asia t +65 8120 2492 w www.visionmagazine.asia

VISIONasia CONTENTS 4

New Products

12

News

15 16

COVER SPACIAL CONCEPTS

LFP Market Share

17

digital printing is moving into areas undreamed of even five years ago.

The printer of tomorrow may well talk about printing interior design the same way they talk about printing an annual report today.

20

HP Awards

Software

21

Awards

22

Feature Location: Taiwan

25

3D News

22

Media

26

Space Asia

Industry

VISION asia magazine the changing face of print in asia Published by Vision Asia Media Pte Ltd 57 Ubi Avenue 1 #03-06 Ubi Centre Singapore 408936

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4

VISION

new Products

HP indigo 7800 and WS6800 digital presses HP Indigo 7800

HP Indigo WS6800

HP used the Dscoop Asia conference in Bali as the worldwide release venue for the Indigo 7800 (right) and WS6800 digital presses, which are built on the existing HP Indigo 7000 and WS6000 digital press series.

The sheet fed 7800 press has new capabilities,

including the ability to print directly on synthetic substrates and plastic cards, as well as a colour management system with an inline spectrophotometer for printed colour output measurement. The roll fed Indigo WS6800 press provides label and packaging converters faster turnaround times through automated

colour management, a wider frame, and new ink capabilities.

Shipments of the Indigo 7800 and WS6800 presses have begun with the features expected to be available as optional field upgrades in early 2015.

The HP Indigo 7800

The HP Indigo WS6800

The Indigo 7800 offers direct printing on synthetic substrates with One Shot Color technology, enabling printers to print high-value applications, such as plastic cards, overlays, lenticular applications, point-of-sale, and premium postcards. The press supports HP Indigo ElectroInk Digital Matte for spot coating effects on glossy substrates in addition to other special inks, including HP Indigo ElectroInk Invisible Red and Light Black. The press also features unique special printing effects, including raised print, textured effects, and digital water marks.

The Indigo WS6800 digital press, the third generation in the WS6000 digital press series, offers productivity, versatility, and advanced colour management.

The 7800 provides automated on-press colour management aided by an inline spectrophotometer. Eliminating the need for manual colour manipulations, the in-line spectrophotometer and colour management tools help to ensure the best possible match to hardcopy proofs, colour uniformity within a page, and colour consistency between presses and sites to meet brand guidelines. The spectrophotometer also streamlines the process for colour standards certifications, such as GRACoL and FOGRA.

HP also says the WS6800 will help reduce time spent preparing colour profiles and Pantone color matching by up to 75 percent with a new inline spectrophotometer. Using closed-loop control, the spectrophotometer eliminates the need for manual colour calibrations and adjustments. An expanded frame width, increased from 317 mm to 320 mm, allows for higher press output and reduced costs. In addition, label converters can produce up to 131 linear feet per minute in colour using Enhanced Productivity Mode (EPM).

The press also features an intelligent automation feature to prioritise print jobs with optimised on-press job sequencing according to job length, media, image types, and job priority.

Providing improved efficiency in the converting of shrink sleeves, high-slip HP Indigo ElectroInk White reduces production steps, says the firm, with single pass sleeve production. HP Indigo ElectroInk Silver gives labels a metallic look similar to UV flexo silver inks and can be used as a spot or base colour for a range of label-printing applications, including paint, automotive, household chemicals, “nutraceuticals,” and soft drinks.

The Indigo 7800 is driven by HP SmartStream Production Pro Print Server Version 5, which HP says, is the fastest digital front end (DFE) available on the market, enhancing performance with 30% faster RIP. HP Indigo Direct2Finish, a platform for automated and simplified near-line finishing operation, enables automatic submission of accurate job definition format (JDF) instructions to leading document-finishing devices, reducing make-ready, turnaround time and reducing waste and human error. www.visionmagazine.asia

HP says the WS6800 delivers the industry’s highest crossover point in narrow-web production versus analogue - for the vast majority of pressure sensitive label jobs, the press will help support the rapid increase in volume of digitally produced labels.

The WS6800 supports the HP SmartStream Labels and Packaging Workflow Suite 4.1, powered by Esko. This workflow suite provides consistent repeat job control and advanced decision making tools to help select suitable jobs for EPM. A new, high-definition 223 lines per inch (lpi) screen provides increased colour gamut space.

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6

VISION

new Products

Fuji Xerox Versant 2100 Press and gradients, sharp images, graphics and text.

Applications are rendered at 1200 x 1200 dpi at up to 10 bits, which is equivalent to 300 percent more pixels and colour precision rendered than the 600 x 600 dpi standard.

Fuji Xerox launched its latest digital full colour press, the Versant 2100, in Singapore on the 19th June. The press, targeted at the Asia Pacific entry level colour production market, is capable of printing up to 100 prints per minute (ppm) .

Fuji Xerox says the 2100 strengthens the company’s production colour portfolio with a new technology platform built for graphic communication specialists in the commercial print, quick print and in-plant segments.

The 2100 features an inline, integrated Full Width Array, which helps users automate colour control, create image-to-media alignment profiles and deliver brand managed colour in less time with less waste; and a Production Accurate Registration technology that helps maintain tight registration throughout the press from page to page and run to run.

Fuji Xerox says the new ultra HD resolution in the Versant Press produces smooth sweeps

The press delivers brilliant and vibrant images with low gloss, low melt Emulsion Aggregation (EA) Dry Ink and offers colour consistency across multiple printers and sites. Users can choose from three controller options: the EX 2100 and EX-P 2100 Print Server, Powered by Fiery, and the Fuji Xerox FreeFlow Print Server to tailor the press to their production needs. Supporting an array of substrates including linen, polyester, vinyl magnet and specialty stocks, the Versant 2100 provides print businesses more flexibility to help their customers achieve desired print outcomes.

The Fuji Xerox Freeflow Core workflow solution further boosts productivity levels of the machine so the press can be integrated with colour management technologies designed to deliver more colour and more saleable output.

HP PageWide technology for new 36” HP Designjet T3500 and 42” HP Designjet T7200 the PageWide platform prints the full page in a single pass.

The compact 36” HP Designjet T3500 Production eMFP requires no warm-up time and features an ultra fast processor and a high productivity scanner with batch scanning, multipage PDF creation and scan-to-email capabilities. It also allows for unattended and low cost operation, producing monochrome prints at the same cost per page as LED MFPs. For high security print jobs it has a self-encrypting hard drive, secure disk erase and controlled access printing. says The 42” HP Designjet T7200 Production Printer is capable of handling three heavy media rolls. It can produce both colour and black-and-white prints on a wide range of media, from bond to glossy photo paper, with a low cost of operation comparable to monochrome LED printers.

HP has announced the scaling up of its inkjet based PageWide Technology to large format printing with the introduction of the 36” Designjet T3500 (pictured) and 42” Designjet T7200 which, HP says, will deliver high quality prints at faster speeds and lower costs.

The technology, which consists of more than 200,000 nozzles on a stationary print bar and spans the width of the page, enables users to produce a variety of black-and-white and colour products such as drawings, maps and posters.

HP has been an integral player in the inkjet printing market by investing in printhead and ink research and development. Building on the success of its HP PageWide Technology from industrial production to small business printing. www.visionmagazine.asia

With inkjet technologies, the ink vehicle, which carries the colourant to the surface of the printer, is crucial to the stability of the ink, the drop ejection process and the overall print result. The HP PageWide printhead is built with thousands of identical drop generators that offer uniform volume, speed and trajectory for precise printing. It also regulates the speed and penetration of Original HP pigment ink to accelerate drying and to control dot size, feathering and color-to-color bleed for highquality prints.

With HP Thermal Inkjet Technology and HP pigment inks, the new HP PageWide Technology for largeformat printers is said to reduce the cost per page and offers the flexibility to use low-cost photo papers for graphically rich applications. Additionally,

HP has also introduced a new HP Designjet Universal Print Driver for IT managers, which allows management of their entire HP Designjet fleet with a standardized single driver.

Customers also can increase efficiency with optional hardware accessories and software tools, such as the new HP Designjet HD Pro Scanner, stacker and online folder.

HP says these solutions can handle the print needs of enterprise organizations; CRDs; architectural, engineering, construction (AEC) and design firms; public sector agencies; quick printers and small- to medium-sized reprographic houses.

Large format HP PageWide printers will be available in the second half of 2015.

new products

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HP T260 Mono Inkjet Web Press HP T260 Specifications:

HP have released the HP T260 Mono Inkjet Web Press designed to print on a wide range of media for high productivity and a low total operating cost in a compact size - the 66cm wide press offers an efficient imposition form factor for book production and fast speeds—up to 244 metres per minute.

HP says the T260 has a duty cycle of 123 million A4 sized and 211 million 152.6mm by 228.6mm equivalent images per month, extending the crossover point for analogue to digital printing. Similar to existing HP Inkjet Web Presses, the HP T260 offers best-in-class print quality with 1,200 nozzles per inch (npi) and features HP Bonding Agent and automation for operator ease of use.

Mono Print Speed Black: Up to 244 m/min Resolution: Native Resolution 1200 nozzles per inch Media Handling: Tight web continuous roll feed Width: 400 to 660 mm Weight: 60 to 215 gsm Types: Wide range of standard uncoated offset and inkjet media Printing Type: Thermal Inkjet Ink: Water-based HP pigment inks and Bonding Agent Colours: Black Width: Up to 63 cm Dims: 3.0 x 12.2 x 2.7 m (W x L x H) Heads: HP printheads (separate printheads for Black and Bonding Agent) Ink: HP 200L ink containers (separate containers for Black & Bonding Agent) The T260 is expected to be available before the end of 2014

EFI H1625 LED printer, Fiery software at Fespa

LED device in the entry-level EFI Wide Format printer line - and the EFI VUTEk GS3250LXr Pro roll-fed printer.

Fespa Digital also saw the worldwide premiere of EFI Fiery proServer Version 6, a scalable and flexible digital front-end workflow offering significantly faster processing speeds.

7pL UltraDrop technology on VUTEk GS series printers

EFI used Fespa Digital to exhibit its wide and superwide format inkjet production capabilities with UltraDrop 7pL grayscale print head technology on its VUTEkGS series printers. EFI’s high-volume UV-inkjet press, the VUTEk HS100 Pro features full automation and a material edge guide (MEG) system.

The show also saw the debut of EFI’s H1625 LED printer (pictured) - the first

EFI has confirmed the VUTEk GS series printers will now feature the new UltraDrop technology, which combines the smallest drop sizes available in its class with grayscale imaging and more precise control for image quality, crispness and speed. UltraDrop technology employs native 7pL print heads with multi-drop addressability in each dot position, giving high apparent resolution and high definition quality with four-level grayscale and two ink density levels. The new technology produces smoothness in shadows, gradients and transitions, as well as text quality with 4 point text in both standard and knockout with fewer satellites and more clarity in all print modes.

HP priming solution for inkjet web press HP announced HP Priming Solution, a development that enables HP Inkjet Web Press users to print on a broader range of media, including standard offset coated media that is not typically compatible with production inkjet technology.

Coatings used in offset papers are designed to repel water, including waterbased inks used in high-speed production inkjet environments. This results in print quality defects such as coalescence and issues with drying the ink at production speeds. The new HP Priming Solution addresses this problem, allowing print service providers (and book manufacturers to print on low-cost, coated offset stock without compromising print quality or productivity.

HP says the new priming solution is available for the full HP Inkjet Web Press portfolio with the first HP Priming Solution offering a matte finish that can

provide a cost effective coated media solution and help increase the crossover points vs. traditional offset in both publishing and commercial printing.

Components of the solution include an HP developed, aqueous based Priming Agent for HP A51 Inks, engineered to work with HP Inkjet Web Presses, and the Epic PrimeCoat priming system from Epic Products International.

HP’s media strategy also includes HP Bonding Agent for production on low cost, uncoated offset papers, collaboration with leading paper mills on the development of inkjet optimised papers with ColorPRO technology, and the HP Media Certification Program for the identification of substrates compatible with HP high speed production inkjet systems. Solutions should be on the market at the end of 2014. www.visionmagazine.asia

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new Products

EFI 5 metre VUTEk GS5500LXr Pro debuts in Shanghai

EFI unveiled its 5 metre VUTEk GS5500LXr Pro with UltraDrop Technology at the 2014 Shanghai Ad and Sign Technology and Equipment Exhibition on 3 July, saying that the new five metre printer is a roll-to-roll inkjet product that uses 7pL grayscale UltraDrop Technology and delivers high throughput work requiring precise imaging, thanks to its LED imaging platform, 7pL greyscale UltraDrop Technology and new, highly flexible ink.

UltraDrop Technology employs native 7pL print heads with true multi-drop addressability in each dot position, giving high apparent resolution and high-definition quality with four-level grayscale and two ink density levels. The new technology also produces smoothness in shadows, gradients and transitions, as well as text quality with four-point text in both standard and knockout with fewer, stray “satellite” droplets and more clarity in all print modes.

The printer’s LED inks cure at a lower temperature

than is required for other curing or drying methods, giving users the ability to print on a wider range of media that cannot withstand high heat – including less-expensive and thinner media down to .79 mm thick. The GS5500LXr Pro printer is ideal for nearly all roll-to-roll graphics uses, including textile and mesh print jobs.

With its EFI VUTEk GSLXr 3M SuperFlex ink, the printer delivers superior performance for outdoor applications, vehicle wraps and graphic applications on textured surfaces, such as brick panels. The ink also offers an extended colour gamut, plus it provides solvent-like elongation characteristics and withstands heat installation without cracking.

EFI and 3M Commercial Solutions now also offer a 3M MCS Warranty for vehicle graphics when produced using the appropriate 3M base film, EFI VUTEk GSLXr 3M SuperFlex UV Inks (excluding white), the new EFI VUTEk GS5500LXr Pro printer and the appropriate 3M film over laminate.

Canon iPF6410SE and iPF8410SE Canon has introduced two new large format inkjet printers, the six colour iPF6410SE and iPF8410SE to its imagePROGRAF series. The two 6 colour printers offer a cost effective solution for in-house on demand printing in the corporate, retail, and hospitality industries.

The 24” iPF6410SE and 44” iPF8410SE both utilise the Lucia Ex pigment ink system which translates into longer lasting prints, significantly increased vibrancy in colour, and a wider compatibility with various media such as fabric banners and cloth.

The 6 colour series features an additional Red ink cartridge on top of the standard Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black and Matte Black inks. This allows users to print images using a brilliant range of reds and oranges, colours of which are commonly used on posters and point of purchase collateral.

In addition, the high density print head enables the iPF6410SE and iPF8410SE to achieve high quality printing at high speeds.

By utilising the Fast Economy Mode, the iPF6410SE is able to print an A1 sized poster on plain paper in about 34 seconds, while the iPF8410SE is able to print an A0 sized poster on plain paper in approximately 56 seconds.

The option for high capacity ink cartridges (300 ml for iPF6410SE and 700 ml for iPF8410SE) also helps businesses reduce the amount of downtime www.visionmagazine.asia

due to the need to replace ink cartridges. To minimise ink replacement downtime further, both the iPF6410SE and the iPF8410SE feature the sub-ink tank system, which allows the ink cartridges to be changed even while a job is in progress without any interruption plus the footprint of the iPF6410SE is almost 20% smaller than its preceding model.

The Canon imagePROGRAF iPF6410SE and iPF8410SE is now available now.

Other EFI products making their regional debut at the show included: • The company’s first entry-level LED product, the 1.65m EFI H1625 LED hybrid roll/ flatbed printer.

• Two new options for the 3.2m, high-volume EFI VUTEk HS100 Pro UV inkjet press: fully automated material loading and unloading systems and a Material Edge Guide for printing corrugated board and other challenging substrates.

• The EFI VUTEk GS2000LX Pro hybrid printer, a 2m LED product being shown with new UltraDrop Technology.

• Version 6 of the EFI Fiery proServer, a product that can process complex vector data up to ten times faster than competitive systems.

Roland DG VersaEXPRESS RF-640 64” printer

Roland DG Australia have released the VersaEXPRESS RF-640, a 1625mm (64”) largeformat digital printer which is equipped with the latest print head technology and Greenguard Goldcertified Eco-Sol Max 2 inks, delivering prints at production speeds of 13 - 18.5sqm/hr and up to a maximum of 48.5sqm/hr. The RF-640 advanced imaging technology produces vibrant colour graphics with sharp details with photorealistic imaging at 1440 dpi resolution and is designed to produce a wide range of applications, including signs and posters, banners, backlit displays and vehicle wraps. It incorporates intelligent features such as the ability to replace inks on the fly, an iPad app to control common printer functions remotely while in the office, plus the VersaWorks RIP software.

5th International Packaging and Printing Exhibition for Asia

26 - 29

r e t et

s s b ine d s n bu beyoers

AUG 2015

BITEC | Bangkok

d r o b

BOOK Your Space NOW! Officially supported by :

Jointly organized by :

Messe D端sseldorf / Organizer of:

Messe D端sseldorf Asia Pte Ltd 3 HarbourFront Place #09-02 HarbourFront Tower Two Singapore 099254 Tel (65) 6332 9620 Fax (65) 6337 4633 ppi@mda.com.sg

The Thai Packaging Association

The Thai Printing Association

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VISION

new Products

Rollsroller Entry flatbed cutters for signmakers

Swedish manufacturer Rollsroller, supplier of products and services for flatbed laminators, has released a revised range of flatbed cutters specifically for signmakers.

The range now consists of 3 flatbed applicators: Entry • Regular • Premium with the Regular now becoming the new standard model, allowing a new Entry level system to be introduced.

The company says that using the patented Rollsroller Flatbed Applicator, one operator can mount large format digital print and self-adhesive film to many substrates like acrylic, rigid boards, corrugated plastic, metal plate, banners and glass.

Application areas • Mounting • Pre-masking • Lamination • Worktable with self-healing cutting mat

Rollsroller Entry The new, low cost Entry model, fast setup and low investment cost • Low-cost entry model

• Standard dimensions up to 1.45 metres wide x 3.4 metres long Rollsroller Regular The Regular is the new standard model • Now includes LED Light table • Now includes Storage trays

• Standard dimensions up to 1.7 metres wide x 4 metres long Rollsroller Premium The Premium is made for high volume industrial production and is equipped with side trays for rolls of banner media - ideal for flex face sign applications • Upgraded with LED light table

• Heat assist roller is now available as an option

• Standard dimensions up to 2.2 metres wide x 10.8 metres long

SwissQprint launches Nyala 2

SwissQprint have confirmed that their latest large format printer platform launched at Fespa Digital 2014, is the Nyala 2.

Although being nearly the same dimensions as the original Nyala, the new model, with its 3.2 × 2 metre printing table, has increased in size by 25%.

The Nyala 2 has a production print speed of 206 sqm/hr directly onto substrate with no draft mode. www.visionmagazine.asia

The machine has a several options including: a roll to roll option for processing flexible media; a board option for oversized formats up to 3.2 × 4 metres; nine colour channels that can be equipped with CMYK, light colours, white, varnish and spot colours.

The company says the versatility of the Nyala 2 makes it suitable for highvolume, high-end environments such as advertising signage and industrial applications.

new products

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Durst Rhotex HS digital soft signage printer Durst anticipates the market will continue its rapid growth with over a 30 % increase expected this year. The Rhotex HS is Durst’s reaction to this market requirement. It is designed for rugged industrial use whilst offering all the advantages of digital printing.

The new printer features Durst Quadro Z printheads with a print carriage of over 49,000 nozzles and a resolution of up to 1200 dpi with a drop size of 7, 14, or 21 pl. With 8 colours, greyscale and primary printing options, the Rhotex provides print quality using eco-friendly water based dispersed dye inks which are odourless, VOC free and recyclable. They also comply with Blue Wool scale 5-6, suitable for up to 2 years outdoor use.

Durst has introduced the Rhotex HS digital soft sign printer into the industrial textile print market with the claim that, although the existing Rhotex 322 is currently the company’s fastest digital textile printer, the new HS has over twice the speed of the 322 and is capable of printing up to 300 sqm/hr. This would give a typical annual production schedule of 500,000 sqm per year at a competitive cost per sqm.

The system will print up to 3.3m width by any length, has data and image flexibility, 24/7 reliability and print quality suitable for banners, posters POP/ POS displays, indoor wall graphics, trade show displays, parasols, flags, backdrops and outdoor advertising.

The Rhotex HS is positioned to provide users with a competitive advantage in the production of a wide range of publicity material in the soft signage market.

Durst Rho P10 HS hybrid Durst says the new Rho P10 200/250 HS, with its Quadro Array 10M printheads, has double the number nozzles in comparison to the Rho P10 200/250 model, plus the machine comes with LED Pin curing in combination with conventional UV drying. This Pin curing allows higher speeds by sealing the drops of inks, maintaining quality while the UV curing completes the drying process.

Durst says the original Rho P10 Series set quality standards for industrial inkjet printing when it was launched two years ago and that same quality, with a resolution up to 1000 dpi, is now available from a printer that is capable of printing up to 400 sqm/hr.

The Rho P10 HS Series are hybrids and will print on both rigid and roll media at the same speed with media changes from one type to the other being quick and trouble free. The machines are versatile and will print on a wide range of media including foamboard, metal, acrylics and PVC and roll media such as clear film and other backlit material, textiles and vinyls.

medium sized packaging and backlit luxury goods.

The fine art print quality of the series allows close up viewing of advertising and corporate promotional material with fine tones and the option of additional light colours (light cyan and light magenta) offering excellent colour reproduction, making them ideal for indoor and outdoor signage, POP material, small to

The new machine uses Durst’s Variodrop technology which helps with the increased productivity and provides improved image quality, particularly at the highest production speeds since solid areas of colour are smoother while having bright and vibrant colours.

Durst Rho 1330/1312 UV flatbed printers The new 1300 series models include better media transportation with a higher vacuum and improved registration leading to greater reliability with improved image quality and reliability during printing for more flexibility with media handling, particularly with difficult substrates such as heat sensitive and corrugated material.

The use of low UV pinning of the ink film during printing, fixes the image which in turn enables full curing to take place outside the machine in an external UV dryer - this results is better printing of heat sensitive media since there is minimal expansion of the media during printing. The dryer can be mounted onto the continuous printing table

Durst has added the Rho 1330 to it’s 1300 series lineup saying that although its Rho 1030 flatbed was a fast model, the 1330 adds another 25 % to that speed making it ideal for automated production while offering the ability to provide short runs. The Rho 1330 will print up to 1250 sqm/hr and its cousin, the Rho 1312, up to 620 sqm/hr.

Another product advance in the 1300 series is a different printing configuration called “Gradual Flow Printing” which is a mode that includes a wider transport belt so advancement of the media is minimal during the printing process.

The media, with a maximum size of 1.25 × 2.50 m, is transported onto the belt and then a higher vacuum is applied outside the machine enabling images to be built up gradually, providing smoother tones over large areas and a high gloss finish, even at high speed. www.visionmagazine.asia

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News

Epson notches up 100 worldwide SurePress Digital Label Press sales Epson Japan has announced that sales of its SurePress inkjet digital label press had reached one hundred worldwide with the hundredth unit being installed at Kanae Co in Nagano, Japan.

Epson debuted the SurePress L-4033A in October 2010 and in December 2012 launched the SurePress L-4033AW with white ink. Sales have steadily accumulated and, based on the company’s 2013 survey, the 100 units sold to date have contributed to Epson’s current market share of approximately 10% with nearly 20% of SurePress customers purchasing two or more units.

The SurePress’s high end colour reproduction is achieved on a wide variety of label substrates through Epson’s original Micro Piezo inkjet technology and original soluble inks plus the machine has been praised by customers for its usability, easy maintenance and its stable printing quality.

EFI first US install of Jetrion LED Inkjet EFI have advised that Graphic Label Solutions in Columbia, Tennessee has become the first company in the United States to install an EFI Jetrion 4950lx LED inkjet narrow web press.

The newly installed technology has allowed GLS to sell off its previous production equipment including a narrow web flexographic press, a screen printing press and a roll-to-roll, solvent inkjet printer - replacing it all with the Jetrion 4950lx.

In 2013, GLS earned the U.S. Small Business Administration’s HUBZone Company of the Year award for the State of Tennessee.

The Jetrion 4950lx LED press allows GLS to produce more primary applications with higher image quality and can reproduce type down to 2 point text, which mean more work in the security market. The “cool cure” LED UV inkjet curing technology gives GLS the ability to run thin and challenging stocks ranging from 0.5 mil to 30+ mil thick. The press also reduces costs with lower energy usage and the LED’s significantly longer lamp life compared to traditional UV curing lamps.

The Jetrion prints on the same substrates GLS used on conventional equipment, providing a level of flexibility that the company can use to expand offerings in multiple new markets.

GLS is currently developing innovative and sustainable products including a point-ofpurchase “shelf talker” tag printed on a completely biodegradable, paper-like substrate made of stone.

GLS is also using the press to develop new UL- and cUL-approved OEM labels and decals. The Jetrion 4950lx press is the first Jetrion product compatible with a full range of flexible packaging and shrink sleeves substrates.

Fastsigns inks fanchise deals in uae and North Africa Fastsigns International Inc, sign shop franchisor with more than 550 centers, has announced it’s expansion of master franchise agreements in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and North Africa.

The expansion will be led by Hamdi Osman, chairman of Solitaire IGT and former senior vice president of FedEx Express Middle East, Indian Subcontinent and Africa.

The company will open it’s first centre in 2014 and an additional 24 locations in the Middle East and North Africa including Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia and Libya.

Osman will own and operate franchise locations; www.visionmagazine.asia

GLS’s digital converting operation now offers lower manufacturing costs and higher quality, using EFI’s inkjet imaging technology and the modular equipment installed on the press, including in-line flexo varnish and lamination, slitting and laser diecutting systems. GLS’s press also has on-board video inspection technology from another supplier that checks for variances in colour or registration.

The press’s laser die-cutting system eliminates the costs for traditional dies, which will offer substantial savings for customers. Removing the waste associated with die cutting, make ready processes also is compatible with GLS’s sustainability efforts.

Bordeaux/Colormagic deal

under the master franchise agreement, he also has the rights to sub-franchise Fastsigns across the UAE and North Africa market. World Franchise Associates (WFA) facilitated the franchise deal between Fastsigns and Osman.

Ink manufacturer Bordeaux Digital Printink has concluded a deal to partner with UK based consumable and ink re-manufacturer Colormagic.

The partnership will see Colormagic expand its range of solvent and UV Curable inks.

Fastsigns plans to open upwards of 50 locations each year for the next three to five years across the globe as a targeted growth strategy, entering 10 new markets.

Bordeaux management said that the agreement will see both companies share knowledge and experience in the wide format digital printing market which is valuable for both Colormagic and Bordeaux’s customers seeking high quality ink solutions.

The company has specifically identified Central and South America, Quebec, India, the Middle East and Europe as growth areas that have large business-to-business (B2B) sectors with a need for its services.

Colormagic noted that Bordeaux products were a complimentary addition to the products currently being manufactured and distributed.

News

Stratasys prints Robocop suit

VISION

13

Landa/Altana Group sign USD $135m deal Specialty chemicals Group Altana and Landa Corporation have concluded an equity financing agreement under which Altana will invest €100 million (USD$135 million) for a minority stake in Landa Digital Printing.

Other units of the Landa Group including Landa Labs and Landa Ventures, are not included in the transaction.

Both companies consider this a starting point for a long-term strategic partnership as proceeds will be used for completing the development of Nanography, Landa’s water-based digital printing process, including engineering and production ramp-up of Landa Nanographic Printing presses and building of manufacturing plants for Landa Nanoink colourants.

Stratasys reports that its multi-material Objet Connex 3D printing technology played a significant role in the production of the suit, created by Legacy Effects, used in the recent remake of the iconic 1987 film, RoboCop. Using Stratasys’ high resolution 3D printing technology, Legacy Effects produced every aspect including master mould patterns of the RoboCop suit, from helmet, to boots. Pieces were moulded and cast into other materials to create variants of the suit dependent on scene requirements and the company says that some versions of the suit used in the movie were composed of as much as 90% actual Stratasys 3D printed parts. The red strip on the black version of the Robocop helmet is 3D printed with Stratasys transparent VeroClear.

Stratasys 3D printing technology was found to be the only option for reproducing smooth areas and intricate detail such as the police badge and other logos as well as the actual size Robocop chest piece. In addition to creating the Robocop suit, Legacy Effects was involved in 3D printing both master moulds and prototype parts for the ‘Exosuit’ featured in the movie.

Altana expects to be an active partner, drawing on print industry expertise gained from its divisions including BYK Additives & Instruments, Eckart Effect Pigments, and Actega Coatings & Sealants.

Visual Magnetics InvisiLock patent

These prototype pieces included fully-functional spring-operated fingers were printed in a single build using multi-materials on the company’s Stratasys Objet Connex 3D Printers.

Legacy Effects took advantage of the 3D’s print speed and ability to incorporate last minute changes with short production times.

Esko Knowledge Base website commissioned Esko has successfully implemented its online Knowledge Base system which is part of the Esko help center. It is available for worldwide Esko users and can be configured in a number of languages with the company saying the facility is in response to user’s preference to access online website resources as their ‘first line’ of immediate query support.

Esko says they have made provision for different support solutions and options for people to learn about their software and equipment. In the process, the online help system offers not just technical problem solutions but creative, insightful answers to ‘How would I do this’ requests.

The Knowledge Base library is Wiki-based and searchable, populated with articles written by Esko experts, support associates and product specialists for helpful, practical information. Each article goes through an extensive auditing process to ensure it is valuable, categorised properly and technically correct.

By employing Google Analytics as a site use tool, Esko says they can develop topics that they see are being tapped for information, with a quick response, content review and posted articles.

After each Knowledge Base answer, Esko gives the user an opportunity to advise whether the article was helpful or not, and leave a comment. If an unhelpful comment is recorded, the feedback is reviewed for the author to address the issue immediately. Likewise, a favorable comment will result in a compliment for the author.

Esko have said they intend to make ongoing improvements to site navigation, user experience and provide immediate important information.

Another ‘hot fixes’ feature will become part of the Knowledge Base. Newly released software information will be updated, and can be accessed via Esko Knowledge Base home page.

US based Visual Magnetics has received a US Utility Patent for its InvisiLock system, an integral part of the Visual Magnetics Graphic System.

The InvisiLock system allows users to place dimensional objects on a wall with graphics without harming the wall or graphic surface, since the system works without adhesive, nails or screws. A dimensional object outfitted with Invisilock can be moved around with ease and locked into position after being placed on a wall with a graphic image on it.

The science behind the InvisiLock system leverages a grid of magnetic poles to allow objects backed with the product to move around and lock into place when applied to a wall or another large surface also fitted with InvisiLock.

The product, a flexible magnet tile, is one of the three primary components of Visual Magnetics Graphic System, which also includes ActiveWall magnetic primer and MagnaMedia, a magnetic receptive print media available in 17 different finishing options. All three components work together to create dynamic wall-to-wall interactive environments by allowing users to layer graphics and dimensional objects such as frames and shelves onto walls. www.visionmagazine.asia

14

VISION

News

X-Rite eXact Scan for spectrophotometer

EFI joint leadership conference in Vegas EFI and graphic communications industry association AMSP/NAPL/NAQP have announced that EFI’s Connect and the AMSP/NAPL/NAQP’s Executive Leadership Summit will be held as concurrent events in 2015. The joint 2015 conferences will be held at the Wynn Hotel in Las Vegas with the Executive Leadership Summit running from January 19-22 and EFI Connect from January 20-22.

X-Rite have released eXact Scan option designed to extend the usability of the X-Rite eXact spectrophotometer platform in the printing and packaging industries by supplying a set of quality control tools to the product’s spectral colour measurement instruments. eXact Scan is easy to install and has been developed to extend the ability of the eXact spectrophotometer to accurately read different length colour bars on a variety of printed materials. The option handles quality control by performing an accurate read of conventional, and non-continuous, strips for flexo printing for packaging and offset litho printers with no in-line colour measurement capabilities. In addition users can transfer data to Microsoft Excel for further analysis and reporting and to integrate with the new 2.5 release of ColorCert: X-Rite Edition. This allows users to scan colour bars, including user-designed colour bars and insight into potential production issues.

X-Rite eXact, including the Scan Option and all associated software solutions, is available worldwide immediately through X-Rite channels and direct from X-Rite.

HP FlexCut and other finishing options Developed through the HP SmartStream Solutions Partner Program and available exclusively for the HP T410, Magnum Digital Solutions has developed the FlexCut digital sheeter/stacker solution. The FlexCut, which will be sold directly by HP, offers automated makeready and on-the-fly stack changes, among other features, giving users the ability to produce 42 inch by 39.4 inch sheets at speeds up to 14,440 sheets per hour, rivaling offset capability.

Developments from the HP SmartStream Solutions Partner Program include: • VITS International’s high speed, high productivity finishing capability with its Sprint Variable Data Finishing System, which is engineered for inline or offline applications for digital presses • Eltex-Elektrostatik-GmbH offers a moisturiser that uses electrostatic dispensing technology to help with flatness in books and other products

• Kolbus range of softcover and hardcover bookbinding machines, including flexible high-speed perfect binding solutions for digital printing

Fespa Digital 2014 breaks records Organisers say Fespa Digital 2014, held in May in Munich, has seen a dramatic increase in visitor numbers to make the show the largest ever Fespa Digital in its eight-year history with a record audience of 16,766 unique visitors giving it a 30% increase over the previous best Fespa Digital, the 2011 event in Hamburg.

The gate also reflected the statistic that 49% of all visitors returned to the event for more than one day, bringing the total attendance to 24,954 visits, a demonstration to the 536 exhibitors that visitors were keen to see the many product innovations offered.

Fespa management said that many participating companies reported that the show was their best ever Fespa, with commercial outcomes for many expected to exceed those from the flagship ‘screen + digital + textile’ Fespa event in Berlin in 2007, before the global economic crisis impacted the sector. www.visionmagazine.asia

Both conferences are geared to keep business owners, CEOs, and management teams up to speed on the latest trends, technologies, and management skills.

Combining the events will give audiences a richer experience with access to a broader range of resources, including several shared programmes available to registrants of either conference.

EFI Fogra confirms energy savings Energy assessments carried out by Fogra have confirmed that EFI’s Vutek wide format printers with LED curing, show energy reductions of up to 82% when compared with devices that use conventional mercury arc lamps. Even in print-ready mode, the company’s LX printers with “cool curing” LEDs are now shown to save up to 77% in electricity usage, simply because the LEDs are off, unlike mercury arc lamps that still consume power when the machine is idle between jobs.

The calculations of Fogra’s Energy Efficiency Project (“Energy efficiency of large and small format printing systems”) have demonstrated that users can save around USD $21,900 every year on power consumption, an important factor for businesses pricing up jobs on both rigid and flexible materials.

Fogra’s comparisons with digital printers using conventional curing lamps showed that the former used 1.18kW/m2 while EFI’s Vutek GS3250LX Pro used only 0.22 kW/m2. This scoring adds to the functional flexibility incorporated into EFI’s LED-curing printers, with their ability to work with thinner and more sensitive materials, as well as lower cost media.

The evaluation carried out employed Fogra’s “Image Quality Test Suite” for printing, with typical production and stand-by/print ready modes being used.

The conditions were configured to emulate both highest productivity and greatest quality, incorporating the relevant machine combinations for accurate results.

The objective of Fogra Forschungsgesellschaft Druck e.V. (Fogra Graphic Technology Research Association) is to promote print engineering and its future-oriented technologies in the fields of research and development and the association maintains its own institute, with about 60 staff members including engineers, chemists and physicists to enable the printing industry to utilise the results of this activity.

EFI Metrics software - Graphprint award Graphprint, Brazil’s graphic arts publication, has given EFI Metrics the award for the Best Management System for the eighth consecutive year.

EFI Metrics, based in Sao Paulo, Brazil is a leader in ERP (MIS) systems for the printing and packaging industries in Latin America. Acquired by EFI in 2012, Metrics became part of EFI’s Business Software portfolio under the leadership of Osmar Barbosa, co-founder and former CEO of Metrics.

Graphprint recognise the industry’s leading suppliers in 23 categories as well as graphic achievements covering five segments: digital, sheetfed and web offset, packaging and promotional printing.

Metrics software module EFI IQuote is marketed worldwide as part of the EFI Productivity Software suite. The application will calculate and automatically select the best layout, production technology and resources for each job and for each quantity, digital or offset, sheet or web.

Events & Awards

VISION

15

HP Digital Print Excellence Awards 2014

top:

bottom:

T

PT Xerography Indonesia, Indonesia Creative Award, General Commercial Printing, HP Indigo Canvera Digital Technologies Private Limited, India Grand Winner, Photo Book Category, HP Indigo

he winners for the HP Digital Print Excellence Awards 2014 were announced at an awards ceremony held in conjunction with Dscoop Asia 2014 in Bali during June 2014.

This makes the seventh HP Digital Print Excellence Awards for HP Indigo and the fifth for HP Sign and Display.

The Asia Pacific and Japan HP Digital Print Excellence Awards were created to recognise outstanding achievements and innovations of top printing companies across Asia with this year’s award program attracting more than 200 entries from 14 countries across the region and represents the seventh HP Digital Print Excellence Awards for HP Indigo and the fifth for HP Sign and Display.

The winners for the Awards 2014 were announced at a ceremony held in conjunction with the Dscoop Asia 2014.

This year, five printing companies received the Grand Winner and Creative Awards for outstanding print works using HP digital print technologies: Billboard Media, Australia

Overall Grand Winner, HP Sign and Display

Graphic Art Workshop, China

Overall Creative Award, HP Sign and Display

HP Sign And Display Entries for the HP Sign and Display were judged in the following categories: Decoration, Corrugated Packaging, Outdoor Advertising, Retail POP/POS, Green Digital Printing and Vehicles Graphics. The award assessment criteria included innovation and creativity, marketing appeal, best use of ink and colour, creative print application installation and overall aesthetics.

The winners for HP Sign & Display are: Overall

Grand Winner

Billboard Media

Australia

Creative Winner

Graphic Art Workshop

China

Pinwheel Media Group Inc

Philippines

Decoration

Winner

0Special Recognition Work Image Technologies Co Ltd Taiwan

Corrugated Packaging

Winner Next Printing

Australia

Special Recognition

Spectrum Scani Pvt Ltd

India

Outdoor Advertising

Winner

Billboard Media

Australia

Special Recognition

Cactus Imaging

Australia

Retail POP/POS

Winner

Dot Digital Pvt Ltd

India

Beijing JingPinDaoYuan Culture Communication, China

Special Recognition

HIS WILL Inc

South Korea

Green Digital Printing

Grand Winner, General Commercial Printing, HP Indigo

Canvera Digital Technologies Private Limited, India

Grand Winner, Photo Book Category, HP Indigo

Winner

Graphic Art Workshop

China

Special Recognition

Insane Signs

Australia

Vehicle Graphics

PT Xerography Indonesia, Indonesia

Winner

Dot Digital Pty Ltd

India

Special Recognition

Ji Hwa

South Korea

Creative Award, General Commercial Printing, HP Indigo

www.visionmagazine.asia

16

VISION

industry

IDC - global large format printer market growing

Technology Highlights

HP is the leader in the global LFP market with 39.8% unit share, Canon is second with 18.8% and Epson a close third

Market intelligence supplier International Data Corporation (IDC) reports that the worldwide large format printer market has posted the third consecutive quarter of growth in terms of unit shipments and shipment value.

As reported in IDC’s research paper, the worldwide large format printer (LFP) market recorded positive year-over-year results in both units (7.4%) and shipment value (3.7%) in the first quarter of 2014 (1Q14). This marks the third consecutive quarter of growth in both units and shipment value.

According to IDC’s Worldwide Quarterly Large Format Printer Tracker, the worldwide LFP market recorded approximately 81,500 unit shipments in the first quarter of 2014.

“Shipments of UV-curable inkjet devices have been growing steadily over the past three years and IDC expects this trend to continue at a similar pace over the next 3 years,” said Phuong Hang, Program Manager, Worldwide Large Format Printer Trackers.

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The technical segment increased 9.3% year over year to 49,500 units shipped and 61% share of the total LFP market in the first quarter. All of IDC’s regional markets experienced positive year-overyear growth in this segment with four out of eight showing double-digit growth, including Asia/Pacific (excluding Japan) (10.5%), Japan (14.1%), Middle East & Africa (15.4%), and the U.S. (11.8%).

Shipment value for this segment also grew 1.4% to more than $301 million in 1Q14.

The graphics application segment grew 4.6% year over year and at 32,000 units accounts for 39% of the total LFP market. Five out of eight regional markets recorded year-over-year unit growth in this segment with Japan leading the pack at 22.4%, followed by Middle East & Africa and Canada at 18.7% and 12.8%, respectively. Similar to the technical segment, shipment value in graphics also expanded 5.3% year-over-year to over $493 million.

Vendor Highlights HP remained the undisputed leader in the global LFP market with 39.8% unit share. The vendor grew 5.5% year over year to 32,500 units in the first quarter. HP remains the clear market leader in its traditional area of strength, the technical market, with more than two times the share of its next competitor, Canon. HP is the number three ranked vendor in the graphics market, trailing market leaders Epson and Canon.

Canon climbed up one spot from a year ago to the number 2 position in the LFP market overall. The vendor ranked second in both the CAD and graphics segments with double-digit unit growth year over year, 18.8% and 16.6%, respectively. Canon also enjoyed significant year-over-year growth in its biggest regional markets for technical and graphics printers, growing 22.5% in Western Europe in the technical segment and 30.3% in Japan in the graphics space.

Trailing Canon by less than 1 point in unit shipment share, Epson was the number 3 ranked vendor in the global LFP market with nearly 17,000 units shipped. The vendor grew 4.4% year over year to 20% share. Epson is the top vendor in the graphic applications segment, with close to three times the share of the next vendor, Canon. While technical printers are only a small part of its LFP sales, Epson grew its shipments in this segment by 7.4% over the previous year.

Roland, which holds a 3.4% share of the overall LFP market, was the number 4 ranked vendor in the worldwide market. Roland’s shipments increased 12.4% year over year. Roland’s strength is the graphics market, where it held the fourth position worldwide and grew 4.1% from a year earlier.

Ricoh rounded out the top 5 vendors worldwide with a three percent share of the worldwide LFP market, and enjoyed 4.0% unit growth compared to a year earlier. The vendor holds the number 4 spot in the technical market, where it saw a 3.8% gain year over year.

Software

VISION

17

GMG ColorServer 4.9

Onyx Graphics Textile Edition software

GMG has released GMG ColorServer 4.9, an updated version of its automated colour conversion software saying that the upgraded features include PDF/ VT-1 compatibility, CMYK to RGB conversions and support of new IDEAlliance file standards

Onyx Graphics has launched Onyx Textile Edition software designed specifically for the large format textile printing marketplace as an application-specific edition for Onyx RIPCenter, Onyx PosterShop and Onyx ProductionHouse packages and as a module for Onyx Thrive software.

GMG ColorServer automates the colour normalisation of PDF files, providing accurate CMYK to CMYK, RGB to RGB, RGB to CMYK, CMYK to RGB and spot color to CMYK conversions while preserving the integrity of the black channel. The result is a standardised and simplified colour management model that delivers consistent print results across any print process and substrate.

The Textile Edition software includes all the functionality of Onyx 11 software including Swatchbooks, sewing marks and disproportionate scaling and textile-specific features to save time and reduce waste. A single process streamlines job preparation and offers the ability to run an entire shop using one RIP or print workflow product. Onyx Textile Edition software combines Step-and-Repeat, Colorways and Ink Configuration Builder functions with Onyx Color – Onyx Graphics’ proprietary colour engine.

ColorServer 4.9 now supports for the PDF/VT-1 variable-data printing (VDP) file format. PDF/VT-1 is a highly-optimised file specifically designed for the efficient digital printing of a wide range of variable data and personalised content such as transactional/transpromo (such as credit card bills and bank statements) personalised direct mailshots, catalogues, photobooks, coupons or tickets.

GMG say the challenge of VDP is the extremely fast file processing requirements to ensure just-in-time delivery to high speed digital printing presses and ColorServer 4.9 addresses this issue with from two directions.

First, the current 32 bit version of the application has been optimised to deliver extremely fast file processing times – up to 3,500 variable data PDF pages per minute can be individually colour managed using ColorServer 4.9.

Second, for higher performance GMG is releasing a 64 bit native version, which in effect offers almost unlimited file processing capabilities for the most demanding variable data applications.

The Paper Adaption Tool in ColorServer allows print service providers to recalculate a file’s colour data against a particular support material, even if the particular proof simulates a different final stock. For example, the Paper Adaption tool could adjust your print data to match an “ISOcoatedV2” proof, even if your production material is different. This tool has been improved by offering a better quality of profile simulation as well as the ability to offer custom gamuts for particular substrates.

While colour retouching is usually applied to a file while still in its RGB values, often print service providers are only supplied with CMYK files or even a multitude of CMYK color spaces (ISO, SWOP, GraCOL, etc.) making the task of colour retouching much more difficult. ColorServer 4.9 now has an extremely accurate CMYK to RGB lossless conversion process that enlarges the colour space back to the file’s original Adobe RGB values. This allows for colour space normalisation within an RGB based image database, only performing the device/process specific CMYK conversion at the final output stage.

The application now supports the new FD 5 and FD 7 spectrophotometers from Konica Minolta and the latest GRAcol 2013 (CGATS 21 RPC-6) and SWOP 2013 (C3 and C5) profiles from IDEAlliance which have been integrated into the software.

Step-and-Repeat functionality within the Onyx Textile Edition simplifies pattern and repeat pattern creation. Users can achieve unlimited layout possibilities with vertical and horizontal repeats, rotate and mirror options and the ability to add image offsets. The Onyx Step-and-Repeat function are designed for quick edge-to-edge fabric and wall covering designs from a single repeatable image.

The Colorways intuitive function allows users to create multiple colour patterns from a single file by selecting from a specified Swatchbooks colour or manually selecting colours to produce unique patterns and save time by using Onyx Interface.

Onyx Color has been enhanced to overcome the many unique challenges inherent in textile colour printing particularly where, without the proper ink controls, less saturated colours can appear dull.

The Onyx Graphics’ proprietary colour engine delivers an expanded colour gamut that gives users the ability to match corporate colours, achieve deeper darks and print a wider range of colours.

Available exclusively from Onyx, ChromaBoost technology allows users to achieve brighter, more saturated colours by increasing the chroma (the intensity of the colour) by as much as 40 percent.

The Ink Configuration Builder enables the quick creation of ink configurations for alternate ink sets (e.g. specialty textile colours) supported by a user’s print device.

Specialty ink sets often come to market after a print device has been in service for a while, and its driver software may no longer be updated. The Ink Configuration Builder allows users to easily create their own ink configurations to support these specialty ink sets.

The Output Ink Reference chart provides visible cues as to which ink is in which channel so they can easily determine the order in which the ink will print. The reference chart and ink configuration features included in Onyx Textile Edition software gives users accelerated printing by making changes to ink configurations during media set-up so operators can control ink and colour for predictable results.

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18

VISION

SOFTWARE

Esko Suite 14

Enfocus releases Switch 12 update 2 Enfocus has released Switch 12 update 2 that incorporates customer requested features including colour coding for folders and connections where users can apply their own colour coding to elements used in their workflow.

new features include: Save Flow Button - as soon as a user starts changing a flow, the flow name will be displayed in italics and followed by an asterisk. This indicates that the flow hasn’t been saved yet. Users can then save the flow using the new “Save flow” button in the toolbar, or the Save flow option in the Flow menu or context menu.

Revert flow button - if changes made to a flow are not correct, users can now go back to the last version of the saved flow by simply using the new Revert Flow button in the toolbar.

Hold connection - in previous versions connections could be highlighted with two “conditional” colours. Now, an extra “conditional” colour has been added to show if the connection is set on hold.

Esko has released Suite 14 saying the app builds on Esko’s packaging preproduction expertise and features developments in innovation and feedback received from brand owners, packaging converters and industry leaders.

A wide range of improvements and enhancements have been added including WebCenter 14, now a 64-bit application and supporting HTML 5 for the Viewer.

Other upgrades are: • Automation Engine • ArtiosCAD 3D - visualisation that includes enhancements to its 3D capabilities • Visualizer effects in Illustrator • Store Visualizer - created in partnership with VTales Graphics, lets users place virtual objects in photographed scenes, enabling them to see their designs in an in-store setting to determine how they compare with competitive products • CHILI Publish Integration - the world’s first in-browser editor dedicated to packaging design • Visual Inspection Systems • ArtPro+ - gives users a tool for quality control of artwork and prepress files • Imaging Engine: APPE3 for CTP; • FlexProof enables users to quickly meet colour accuracy e-xpectations while saving operator time and • i-cut Layout+ - a “pay as you go” SaaS model for software • DeskPack and Preflight are also now available in a subscription-based SaaS model.

Adding descriptions to each element - users can now add a description to each element, connection, and tool in Switch.

Enhancements to the installer - if a Switch service is active when users prepare to install Switch Server 12 update 2, the installation will stop.

A window displaying a list of the active services and how to stop them will then appear.

Changed behaviour - “Read-only” use of Remote Designer will now be indicated in the title bar of the application.

Add version number separator - “Add version number” has a new sub-property for Output folders, Archive hierarchy and FTP send. It now allows users to add a separator to version numbers of documents duplicates.

Split PDF - If users are using Split PDF, they can now use variables and script expressions to define the number of pages per file.

New configurators - two new configurators have been developed to allow conversion of both Microsoft Excel files and PowerPoint presentations to PDF. The configurators are compatible with Microsoft PowerPoint / Excel for Windows 2010, and Microsoft PowerPoint / Excel for Windows 2013.

Twixl Publisher - provides automated creation and distribution of rich content apps for iOS and Android-based tablets. Switch can be used to automate different parts of a Twixl Publisher workflow by involving and automating other applications.

Also included in update 2 are several bug fixes and updated configurators.

Sculpteo 3D gets Photoshop CC support Sculpteo, an online 3D printing service based in San Francisco and Paris that offers on-demand 3D printing of individual products as well as short-run manufacturing, has announced the support of their technology by Adobe Photoshop CC saying it will now allow the creative community access to their machine profiles and printing technology.

This news builds on Adobe’s recent unveiling of the latest 3D capabilities in Photoshop CC that enables Adobe Creative Cloud members to easily build, refine, preview, prepare and print 3D designs.

By simplifying the 3D print process, Photoshop CC will become a go-to tool for anyone who wants to print a 3D model. Available now as part of a major update to Adobe Creative Cloud, the 3D printing capabilities integrated in Photoshop CC enable creatives to design in 3D from scratch or refine an existing 3D model and produce print-ready 3D models using familiar Photoshop tools. Automated mesh repair and support structure generation ensure models will be produced reliably, while accurate previews allow creatives to submit print jobs with a high degree of confidence.

Users simply download the profiles of Sculpteo printers and drag and drop them in a folder to have access to Sculpteo’s printer profiles.

Photoshop CC allows 3D designs to be printed to a locally connected 3D printer or via built in access to popular online 3D print services. Photoshop CC

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supports the most popular desktop 3D printers, such as the MakerBot Replicator, and also supports the full range of high quality materials available on Sculpteo including ceramics, metals and other additive materials.

Sculpteo’s 3D modeling tools will be available to Adobe users for the production of accurate prototypes and finished designs currently in use in many creative fields, including architecture, jewellery, film and animation.

The 3D print-on-demand service has 45 materials, colours, and finishes available, plus superior file analysis and repair and specialises in fast turnaround with worldwide delivery.

Kuala Lumpur May 2015

the best minds on the planet w i l l b e a t V i s i o n a r i e s n e x t ye a r m a ke s u re y o u r s i s a m o n g t h e m

Visionaries CONVENTION • Kuala Lumpur • MAY 2015

a two day digital print technology briefing featuring speakers from across the planet

promotional opportunities exist for sponsors with vision contact visionaries@visionmagazine.asia for details

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20

VISION

new magazine

Watch this space

new title on digital décor to launch in Asian market

V

ision Asia Media, publishers of Vision Asia magazine, say their new magazine ‘Space Asia’ will be launching soon.

‘Space’ is a publication that will focus specifically on the digital decoration industry within the Asia region. The first issue is expected to launch in November 2014 with a publication cycle of every 4 months or 3 times per year.

Space is targeted at PSPs and its aim is to provide information and intelligence on digitally printable products used for decorative purposes. Amongst an array of areas covered will be textiles, fabrics, direct-to-garment, curtains, wallpaper, ceramics, glass, wood, furniture, 3D objects and promotional products.

The trade publication aims to highlight the momentum and benefits of developing digitally

printed decoration products, and potentially open up new market segments for the print industry.

The market for digital decoration continues to flourish as it responds to creative applications and new technology, especially in disciplines of clothing, fashion, architecture and interior design.

The global digital textile printing market is growing on a rapid scale. InfoTrends estimated that the revenues from digital textile equipment and ink sales will grow at a compound annual growth rate of 30.7%.

Asia Pacific represents the world’s largest as well as fastest growing region in textile printing production, with more than half of the world’s textile printing production in China and India.

Being the first and only magazine in the region

targeted at the digital decoration industry, Space presents an essential promotional advertising medium for suppliers with an equipment line-up consisting of textile, fabric, direct-to-garment, rollto-roll, flatbed, ceramic or embroidery printers.

Features in the magazine include articles by leading Asian industry commentators, supplier success stories, latest technology developments, international trends, awards, events and industry activities. ‘Space’ will also feature print-trade highlights in the digital decoration market, with special attention to interior, architecture and fashion design.

The main Asian distribution channel for Space will be online with a printed version available for selected businesses in Singapore and packaged as an insert with Vision Asia magazine.

AFTA 2014 relocates to Kuala Lumpur The Asian Flexible Packaging Conference, Exhibition and Awards (AFTA) 2014, being held on 10-11 November, will relocate to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from Bangkok with organisers citing Thailand’s current political instabilities as the reason for the move.

Amongst the topics covered in the event include flexo and gravure printing, digital and offset printing, pre-press and design, consumables, inks and substrates, labels and adhesives, slitting and rewindering, and cleaning solutions.

The two-day conference will feature speakers from the US, Europe, Australia and Asia, covering issues that affect the print packaging business owners of today, from packaging design to production to management issues.

AFTA has also announced the 1st Asian Packaging Design Awards which aims to recognise the region’s most innovative packaging across the industry. Aimed at designers and brand owners, the awards show will be the most comprehensive that the region has seen. There will be three categories for the awards: Beverages, Food and Beauty/Health. Entries will be judged by an panel of industry experts and awarded based on visual impact, functionality, innovation and quality of the finished product.

Attendees can expect the active exchange of ideas, networking and participation in the growing print industry in Asia.

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awards

Agfa 3 EDP’s Three Agfa Graphics products were rewarded with European Digital Press Association awards at Fespa Digital last month.

VISION

21

Screen ‘Best Digital Label Press’ EDP

FESPA Digital 2014 World Wrap Master crowned

The European Digital Press Association (EDP) has handed Screen’s Truepress Jet L350UV digital label press the 2014 EDP Award in the ‘Best Label Printing Solution’ category.

After a 4 day battle, Kiss Lajos from Hungary was awarded the title of World Wrap Master at FESPA Digital 2014.

Agfa’s Asanti workflow solution for Sign & Display, the Jeti Titan HS wide-format printer, and the Altamira LM Pack inks were all recognized for their excellence.

The European Digital Press Association grants the EDP Awards to the best products of the year introduced in the European market and while it reviews quality, it also identifies aspects such as value to the user, support and service.

The 3 product categories awarded to Agfa Graphics were: Asanti Best workflow management solution Asanti is an automatic sign and display production hub, including PDF creation and preflighting. Asanti features Adobe APPE 3.0 RIP technology that provides a reliable and predictable output on a wide range of Agfa Graphics’ and non-Agfa Graphics’ printers, Asanti integrates with Asanti Storefront web-to-print and connects to cutting and finishing equipment. Its built-in colour management is easy to use and guarantees consistent colour quality with minimal effort.

Jeti Titan HS Best flatbed/hybrid printer (over 200,000 euro) The Jeti Titan HS flatbed six colour UV inkjet printer combines quality and high speed for an excellent price/performance. The robust engine incorporates the latest generation Ricoh Gen 5 print heads and comes with double white as standard and with primer or varnish (optional). The 3.2m wide Jeti Titan HS has a ‘flat-to-roll’ option to print flexible media as well as rigid substrates.

Launched at last year’s PacPrint Australia and Labelexpo Europe, the Truepress Jet L350UV has print widths up to 322mm (350mm web), productivity at 16.1 sq/m per minute from a linear speed of 50 m/min and photo-realistic images with smooth gradations and fine detail.

The award was announced at the FESPA Digital 2014 show in Munich and comes on the back of Screen’s Truepress Jet W1632UV being awarded Best Wide Format printer over 1.6 metres at last year’s FESPA in London.

Second (pictured) and third prize went to Colin Sciberras from Malta and Robert Davidson from Ireland, respectively.

Wrappers from around the world started competing for the title on day one of FESPA Digital 2014 – Tuesday 20 May 2014 until Friday 23 May. As part of this year’s competition, participants had to put their wrapping skills to the test, wrapping not just cars, but objects including mannequins, speakers and bathroom objects to demonstrate diverse applications.

Altamira Pack LM Best environment ink technology

Arlon Ultimate PremiumPlus “Best New Product” award

The Altamira low-migration (LM) UV curable inkjet inks were designed for printing directly on primary food packaging and on labels, blister foils, lids for food and pharma packaging applications.

Arlon’s Ultimate PremiumPlus film has been awarded “Best New Product” at the Society for Experiential Graphic Design (SEGD) 2014 NEXPO Conference in Atlanta, Georgia.

These low-migration inks are based on specific chemical formulations, compliant with legislations, and able to deliver food safe solutions. They can be customised for specific foods and packaging materials.

Arlon showcased an array of products at the event, demonstrating media for both interior and exterior applications including restyling, textured, translucent and etched glass films as well as FlexFace. Ultimate PremiumPlus is an adhesive backed film designed

to decorate retail and corporate environments with consistency across multiple locations.

The Ultimate PremiumPlus line of films has a comprehensive colour selection with new and unique colours and texture finishes that are unattainable with paint. These cost effective finishes, it’s durability and “environment friendly” option to low VOC paint permit high end appearances on curves, formed surfaces and other substrates.

Agfa Gold in Adobe partner program extended Agfa Graphics reports it’s Adobe Gold Solution Partner appointment has been extended and that it continues to be a member of the Adobe Partner Connection, confirming Adobe as Agfa Graphics’ strategic technology and software development partner.

The company says that both the Apogee and Asanti workflow software teams and their users are expected to benefit from this alliance and gain access to additional resources and support from the Adobe teams.

Agfa expects to derive dual benefits from both its long term Adobe relationship and the extensive number of APPE based systems installed worldwide.

The latest developments are for Apogee in the commercial prepress environment and the recent introduction of Asanti with APPE 3.0 for wide format printers that allow integration of wide format equipment into web-toprint and finishing workflows. www.visionmagazine.asia

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VISION

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Taiwan BEAUTIFUL ISLAND

A largely domesticated print market, the Taiwan print industry is focusing all energies on increasing their export markets. The island’s propensity to take on technologies and opening up of industries present a whole host of new opportunities on the digital front.

Vision Asia explores key market drivers and challenges.

Business Environment Developments to grow Taiwan as a business hotspot is underway, as the island’s Council for Economic Planning and Development (CEPD) aims to put Taiwan on the top 10 list World Bank’s ‘Doing Business’ report by 2016.

Since 2008, CEPD has begun implementing a 4-year plan to enhance Taiwan’s business climate using the same benchmarks the World Bank report uses to evaluate ease of business in an economy. The benchmarks include dealing with construction permits, enforcing contracts,

www.visionmagazine.asia

getting credit, getting electricity, paying taxes, protecting investors, registering property, resolving insolvency, starting a business and trading across borders.

Taiwan joined the World Trade Organisation in 2002, just one day after China gained entry. Within the last 50 years, Taiwan has transformed itself from an agriculture-dependent economy to one of the leading producers of mass-manufactured goods. Currently, Taiwan’s economy is dependent on international trade and export.

Media and inks Feature location

VISION VISION

23 23

At a Glance Country Government Type Location

Republic of China (ROC) Multiparty Democracy and Constitution of the ROC Asia

Population

23.34 million (as of 2013)

Economic Indicators

USD$20,930 (as of 2013)

Currency Business Environment

New Taiwan Dollar (NT$) Top 10 Most Innovative, 1st in Patent Activity

Print Industry Digital printing is a comparatively new segment in Taiwan, taking up only 15-20% of the total print market share. Although traditional, offset methods still dominate Taiwan’s print industry, digital print has an active adoption rate in the island. As one of the countries with the highest industrial cluster density in the world, this comes as little surprise.

“The scenarios of the Taiwanese printing industry have dramatically changed over the past ten years. Small printing factories that failed to adopt the digital printing processes have been phased out from the industry now,” said Ching-Lang Chen, president, Taipei Commercial Printing Association. “Those who fail to do so cannot survive the industry.”

“The traditional printing factories are transforming because combined printing technologies have taken over a lot of their regular printing work.

For the large printers, they have built in-house digital capabilities in order to adapt to changing trends,” Chen continued.

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VISION

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Taiwan’s printing industry is attaching more importance to the international market as the domestic market shrinks. We want to include high-end or value-added service within the main target segment

Although Taiwan’s economy is highly dependent on international trade and export, it’s printing industry remains largely domesticated, only fulfilling local manufacturer needs. That may soon change, as the print industry gears up to explore overseas markets.

“International exports only takes up 10% of the market share, and this is a number we want to increase,” said Chen. “Countries such as Singapore and Hong Kong have healthy export markets, with 60-70% of their print products going to international markets.”

Geographically, mainland China is a natural market that was the first to be explored. As recently as May 2014, Taiwan opened its printing industry to China under a service trade pact. Although Taiwan had signed a service trade agreement with China in 2013, it failed to integrate the publishing and printing industry.

Due to China’s strict constraints and regulations on commercial printing and publishing, most of the focus has been on the packaging segment.

Digital labels and packaging is a megatrend globally, with InfoTrends predicting that the digital press revenues will experience a 17.7% compound annual growth rate between 2012 and 2017. Though a lot of effort has been directed on packaging, Chen admitted that there is still a long way to go: “The packaging market grows mild as economy rebounds slowly. The small amount digital printing requirements increase, www.visionmagazine.asia

though not strongly as expected though.”

Taiwan has long been home to tech giants like Acer, ASUSTek and HTC. The island’s companies make 89% of the world’s notebooks, and 46% of desktop computers, according to Taiwanbased research group, Market Intelligence & Consulting Institute (MIC).

In 2014, Bloomberg placed the island first in patent activity and in the world’s top 10 most innovative countries.

“Creativity and innovation are the two key advantages that the Taiwanese printing industry can possess to strike the balance between quality and price,” added Chen.

It comes as little surprise then that a key trend in Taiwan is the use of online tools and technology to grow its print industry: “More and more Taiwanese printers are adopting cloud technology to innovate their existing business models, in fact. Additionally, through e-commerce, printers can broaden business opportunities or boundaries.”

Like the rest of the world, Taiwan is not being spared from declining demand for printed books, magazines, periodicals and newspapers due to the accessibility of the Internet.

That said, Chen noted that digital printing has helped to develop more high-value customers,

particularly towards packaging, children’s books and hardcover picture books.

“Taiwan’s printing industry is attaching more importance to the international markets as the domestic market shrinks. We want to include high-end or value-added service within the main target segment,” said Chen.

Chen suggested that value-added services are key in order to grow the Taiwanese print industry: “To further grow the industry, we need to expand the service scope. We are looking into how we can team up printers to provide a one-stop shop after printers review their core competencies.”

One of the first challenges faced by the industry is the general lack of information available. The association plans to combat this by first building a solid information sharing platform.

“It is very important for printers to increase interaction and to team up to develop international business as a result,” said Chen.

“There also needs to be more effort from academic and research sectors to study the Taiwanese print industry, so that more defined workable strategies and action plans can be devised,” added Chen. The association has been involving itself with trade shows and conferences around the region not just to exchange information, but also to build up their profile.

3D

VISION

25

Konica Minolta and 3d Systems create strategic deal Konica Minolta says it plans to focus the new alliance on high growth industries such as manufacturing/industrial, healthcare and education applications.

Some of the first products that Konica Minolta will resell from 3D Systems include: ProJet 3500 Series Professional 3D Printer designed for engineering, manufacturing and mechanical environments due to it’s quality, durable plastic parts, accurate and high-resolution plus rapid manufacturing, functional testing, design communication, rapid tooling.

ProJet 660 Professional 3D Printer targeted for consumer products, healthcare, education and other vertical market users that print full colour, photorealistic models for product design, prototypes, assemblies and colour concept models.

Konica Minolta Business Solutions a strategic alliance saying that, by 3D Printing adoption using Konica authorised resellers and direct sales

USA and 3D Systems have announced joining forces, they expect to accelerate Minolta’s USA wide dealer network and channels.

Konica Minolta Business Solutions USA which positions itself as an enterprise content management, technology optimisation and cloud services solution provider, assists organisations to improve speed to market, manage technology costs and facilitate the sharing of information to increase productivity.

3D Systems is a provider of 3D print centric design-to-manufacturing solutions including 3D printers, print materials and cloud sourced on-demand custom parts for professionals and consumers. Materials include plastics, metals, ceramics and edibles. The company also provides integrated 3D scan based design, freeform modelling, inspection tools and an integrated 3D planning and printing digital thread for personalised surgery and patient specific medical devices.

This comprehensive range of 3D printers is being used in production grade manufacturing in aerospace, automotive, patient specific medical device and a variety of consumer, electronic and fashion accessories.

Stratasys - flexible digital materials for 3D product realism

Stratasys has released the previously announced extension to its range of flexible and rigid material options for the Objet500 Connex3 Color Multimaterial 3D Printer.

Ranging from transparent to opaque and spanning a wide selection of Shore A values, the new flexible colour options comprise six rubber material palettes.

With hundreds of new rubber-like and rigid colour materials and many rigid ones which, when combined with existing options, allow virtually unlimited combinations of flexible, rigid, and translucent-to-opaque colours in a single print run.

These consist of:

The new colour options are designed to suit medical, automotive and consumer product components in popular gray along with vibrant colour components that offer true-to-life aesthetics.

This allows the production of complete products without manual assembly and permits product designers the versatility to validate and improve their design in advance of tooling to improve the design and reduce tooling costs, reduce development cycle and time-to-market.

New flexible colour options are available immediately to Objet500 Connex3 Color Multi-material 3D Printer owners through a free software update.

• Three flexible 72 colour palettes, composed of rubber-like (TangoPlus) and combinations of rigid opaque (VeroCyan, VeroMagenta and VeroYellow) materials.

• Three flexible 68 colour palettes, built with rubber-like (TangoBlackPlus) and combinations of the same rigid opaque (Vero) colours.

Further strengthening its rigid colour range, Stratasys also increased the number of gray and subtle colour options with: • Three 45 colour rigid gray palettes, each of which combines rigid VeroWhite and VeroBlack with colours.

• One 45 hue gray palette, with varying levels of translucency, and which includes a reflective luster for the production of sleek, high-quality parts for products such as consumer electronics.

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VISION

Media

Avery Dennison TrueImpact eco-films

Avery Dennison have introduced a range of digital and screen printing films with a lower environmental impact giving converters a more sustainable choice for indoor mid-term graphics applications.

The product line is currently available in six types, including a white multi-print film and the choice of a matt or gloss protective overlaminates and are suitable for latex, UV, eco-solvent and solvent inkjet platforms as well as screen printing Although PVC films are readily used in many graphic applications today, there are a growing number of customers looking for alternative materials that have an improved environmental health footprint across the manufacturing, use and disposal phase of the product lifecycle.

The patented series TMP 7000 / TOL 7000 films are 100% free of PVC and phthalates, and deliver high level performance. An easy clean overlaminate resists graffiti and protects the material for up to five years in interior applications, and the films will conform to both flat surfaces and simple curves.

Liners for the entire range are FSC- or SIF-

certified, and the products are RoHS- and REACHcompliant. Compared with existing PVC films, sustainability benefits are 9% less energy use, 12% lower greenhouse gas emissions and 13% less solid waste.

The company said that by offering an alternative with much lower environmental impact, converters can help their customers meet sustainability obligations and prove they have done so with Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) data.

TrueImpact TMP 7000 / TOL 7000 series films limit stock inventories and enable more design and colour choices because they suit latex, UV, eco-solvent and solvent inkjet platforms, as well as screen printing. The new TrueImpact portfolio also meets the international standards for flame propagation on burning (EN13501-1 and ASTM-E 84), which is an important health and safety requirement in contained spaces such as public buildings and transport systems.

Spandex Arlon building wrap

Spandex Bratislava, the capital city of Slovakia, has given their office a face-lift with the assistance of production house Blos. Using a Mimaki JV-400 solvent printer, Spandex produced a 13 metre x 6.7 metre high wall graphic which was applied in 1 day.

This building wrap is made from Arlon DPF 8000, an industrial high tack, pressure sensitive film designed to adhere to ‘hard-to-stick’ and low energy indoor or outdoor surfaces including brick and other rough surfaces.

Avery Dennison wrap film

All TrueImpact materials come with the Avery Dennison Integrated Component System (ICS) warranty for individual projects.

Stratasys AirDog sports drone Stratasys has announced that UAV start-up company, Latvia-based, Helico Aerospace Industries, has successfully introduced AirDog, the world’s first automated drone designed to track and video outdoor sports and activities, using Stratasys 3D printing technology.

Aimed primarily at the consumer market, AirDog is an innovative, simple-to-use, ‘quad-copter’ that operates via a wrist-worn tracking device and accommodates a standard GoPro sports camera.

Users can automatically capture live aerial video footage and still photography of themselves, having set distance, speed and height levels for AirDog to follow. Helico is specifically targeting the outdoor ‘extreme’ sports market and expects AirDog to be of particular interest to recreational participants of freestyle BMX, motocross and skateboarding, as well as water-sports such as surfing, kite-surfing and wake-boarding.

Prior to investigating the use of 3D printed parts, Rozentals was trying silicon moulded designs through a supplier in China. However, not only did this entail a two-week turnaround time, but the www.visionmagazine.asia

Avery Dennison Europe have increased their Supreme Wrapping Film colour and finish options to 82 with the addition of four ‘Conform Chrome’ materials, Chrome Silver, Chrome Black, Chrome Gold and Chrome Blue.

resulting models proved too heavy for take-off and were ultimately scrapped.

The final AirDog drone was fully 3D printed using Stratasys’ FDM-based ULTEM material, chosen for its ability to provide parts of extreme strength and durability, with lightweight characteristics vital for take-off and in-flight manoeuvrability. The material’s functional stability enabled the printing of very thin walls that further reduced the machine’s overall weight.

With sufficient interest among end-users Helico expects to commercially introduce AirDog to the market at the end of October, 2014.

Included in the series are six satin films which have medium-lustre matte and gloss finishes in black, white, khaki green, orchid, carmine red and bubblegum pink and are designed to have the appearance of real satin paint.

Seven new colours have been added to the Supreme Wrapping Film portfolio: Matte Khaki Green, Bahama Blue Pearl, Black Pearl, Quick Silver Gloss Metallic, Blaze Orange Matte Metallic, Midnight Sand Matte Metallic and Lagoon Blue Matte Metallic.

Avery Dennison Europe say the ‘paint-like finish’ vinyl can now be matched to any colour model within two weeks and Supreme Wrapping Film uses a clear protective layer to ensure a durable vehicle wrap that lasts up to 12 years plus it can be removed quickly and without damaging the underlying surface.

INDUSTRY

IDC - inkjet will dominate global continuous-feed printer market after 2014 According to new research from International Data Corporation (IDC), the shift from electrophotography (EP) to high-speed inkjet (HSIJ) was realised in 2013, and will continue through 2014-2018.

Placements of both monochrome and colour EP equipment declined in the past year, while HSIJ installations continue growing. IDC expect HSIJ to reach $1 billion in equipment sales by 2018 with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.8%.

IDC technology research finds the following worldwide engine unit placement changes from 2012 to 2013

Not only was HSIJ the only growth technology segment in the continuous feed production print market but, for the closely watched high-volume segments of 150+ ipm monochrome and HSIJ, HSIJ became the overall market share leader achieving 54% of the placements. While the cross over in placements occurred in 2013, HSIJ will grow to 75% of placements by 2018. HSIJ providers have appropriately focused on the highvolume segments of the continuous feed market where print volumes and corresponding supplies and service revenue are significant.

Technology

Growth

Color EP

Monochrome EP

HSIJ Source: IDC Worldwide and U.S. Continuous Feed 2014–2018 Forecast and Analysis

Total Market

-51.1% -32.1%

+15%% -22.1%

Forecast Following the dramatic technology shift that occurred between 2012 and 2013, IDC predicts that the continuous feed equipment market will grow modestly at a CAGR of 2.4% through 2018. This will be fuelled almost entirely by HSIJ, which will grow at a 12.2% CAGR. Traditional applications opportunity The traditional installed base of continuous feed devices is producing customer communications (bills, statements, notices, cheques), direct mail, as well as bound documents such as manuals and books.

Each application category offers unique opportunities for HSIJ, from eliminating preprinted forms, rightsizing equipment fleets, and accelerating outsourcing for customer communications, to reducing waste in the publishing supply chain by digitally printing smaller run lengths closely aligned to customer demand.

Application diversification opportunity While the majority of HSIJ placements are going to traditional markets, technology vendors are opening up new opportunities in publishing and commercial print. Considering the immense print volumes produced in these segments, aspirations to convert these volumes to digital print are driving business development activities. This application diversification will accelerate as vendors find the right balance of operating costs, productivity, and print quality. The commercial print customers who may embrace HSIJ technologies are accustomed to acquiring printing presses that stay in operation 10 or more years. HSIJ vendor success may be impacted by their ability to protect a customer’s investment, with technology that is both scalable and extensible. These vendors will need to deliver robust services and cultivate a long-term relationship with their customers. This has historically been the success model for analogue equipment vendors and should be embraced by HSIJ vendors.

Technology shift It’s clear that a technology shift is well underway and HSIJ will become the dominant technology for traditional applications produced by the existing installed base of continuous feed printers. There will continue to be opportunities for EP color technologies where print quality and substrate flexibility is paramount.

Vendor Shakeout Today, a gold rush is occurring as many new entrants are vying for the new HSIJ opportunity. While both the digital print and analogue press vendors will seek to defend their base, each will seek to grow through capturing print volume. The competitive pressures will intensify and raise the question of when, or if, a technology shift will occur between higher volume analogue print and digital. For this reason, most vendors feel compelled to have an HSIJ offering. Based on IDC’s historical data for continuous feed printers as well as current adoption projections, IDC believes there are too many offerings in the market. In IDC’s Worldwide Production and Large Format Printing 2014 – Top 10 Predictions (IDC #247120), IDC analysts predict that a looming vendor shakeout is on the horizon as the market begins picking inkjet winners.

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ISA - sign industry monitor shows above average growth 2014/15 US headquartered International Sign Association says its Industry Market Monitor shows that growth in large-format printers, dynamic digital signage, electric signage, and wayfinding signage is anticipated throughout 2014 and into 2015.

The ISA Sign Industry Market Monitor, sponsored by the National Association of Sign Supply Distributors (NASSD), assesses key drivers to compile data that shows changes in the US market.

Future ISA Market Monitors will be released quarterly and will show how these four key sectors of the sign market are changing over time. The report is based on an index value which should determine whether anticipated growth will outpace or fall behind historical trends. Any factor higher than 0 indicates stronger than average growth.

Negative values indicate weaker than average growth.

According to the report, conducted by IHS and Vandiver and Associates on behalf of ISA, the ISA Sign Industry Market Monitor for the second quarter of 2014 indicates large format printers will enjoy stronger than average growth in both 2014 (.47) and 2015 (.59).

Growth is expected as the manufacturing sector bounces back, posting anticipated growth of 4% in 2014 and 5% in 2015. Dynamic digital signage will also grow in 2014 (.21) and 2015 (.48), largely due to hardware and software revenue.

Display mounts are forecast to increase gradually each year, averaging 2.9% growth annually through 2017.

All other cable and miscellaneous hardware revenue is expected to increase an average of 2.4% each year during the same time period.

Installation (2.4%) and project management revenue (2.0%) also show growth.

Electric signage will experience a stronger year in 2014 (.74) but 2015 reflects a less aggressive growth rate (.48). Growth here is expected to come from increases in out-of-home advertising, which is expected to grow 18% in 2014 and 15% in 2015.

Other key factors include retail output, which is expected to increase 3% in 2014 and 4% in 2015; manufacturing output (3%, 2014 and 5% 2015); and professional services output (2% each year).

Wayfinding signage (.71 in 2014 and .45 in 2015) will find its growth driven by new construction of highways and streets, which increases by 3% in 2014 before flattening in 2015, as well as growth in manufacturing, retail and professional services sectors.

The report is free for ISA and NASSD members.

Non-members may purchase it for $1,000 per forecast or $3,500 for all four quarterly forecasts. www.visionmagazine.asia