In-Depth Look at 2010 InterTech™ Award Recipients

PITTSBURGH, Pa.—Detailed information has been released about the six technologies recently selected to receive a 2010 InterTech™ Technology Award from Printing Industries of America.

An independent panel of judges deliberated over technology nominations which ranged from software solutions to press consumables and printing systems. Great strides in technology were demonstrated in inkjet, Web-to-print, plate processing, and flexographic and offset print quality.

Technologies were selected for a variety of reasons, but the judges felt they all are truly innovative and expect them to have a major impact on the graphic communications industry. What follows is a description of the technology and its significance to the field (listed alphabetically by company, with the technology named first).

FUJIFILM ZAC Automated Controller Technology Module
FUJIFILM North America, Graphic Systems Division

Fujifilm’s ZAC software technology offers high levels of control over plate processing. On a continual basis, the ZAC references an algorithm to determine if the processed area per elapsed period of time requires a replenishment cycle. If replenishment is required, the ZAC adds only the proper amount of replenishment that corresponds to the processor activity to keep the system in control. Judges liked how this process focuses on adaptive feedback in the processing of plates, resulting in more consistent plates. It also offers a large return on investment thanks to the money saved on chemicals. Since it reduces chemical waste, it also gives printers an opportunity to highlight their environmental efforts while requiring no change in workflow.

Prinect Inspection Control
Heidelberg USA, Inc.

The Prinect Inspection Control is an integrated in-line defect detection system, available for the Speedmaster CD 102, CX 102, and XL 105. By placing two high-resolution cameras in the coating unit printing errors such as hickeys, missing print, and scumming can be caught as they occur. Defects trigger a signal lamp, the insertion of a defect tab, and the defect is displayed on the console screen for the operator to correct. The system is able to identify flaws as small as 0.3 mm, approximately the size of a period in 6 point type. The judges liked that the tolerance of detection could be set by the printer. Commenting on the effectiveness of the technology, a judge said, “This is a step forward for pharmaceutical and cosmetic packaging and other products that require error-free production.”