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Packaging Trends

Computers in design, printing and logistics

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New software fundamentally changes the field of graphic design and the pre-press stage. For logistics, there are the first programmes that help one to guide the flow of goods. The “just in time“ concept, which Toyota has already been employing since the 50s, becomes the standard for the whole industry at the beginning of the 80s. Trading logistics uses the EAN barcode, and here too the latest level of computer technology is required.

Better controlling, checking, and documenting

For the foods and pharmaceutical industry, the importance of the computer lies in the improved checking, regulation and documentation of processes. According to the pattern of target value/deviation from target, errors are recorded, displayed on a screen and saved as a protocol. There are also better processes for labelling. Instead of using printer types and printing plates, needle and inkjet printers are used. Lasers for coding are still too expensive to find broad use.

Effectiveness is decisiveness

For applications in which a high degree of flexibility is not necessary, producers perfect the mechanical functions of their machines with tried-and-tested control and drive concepts. Regardless of which approach is chosen, all machines need to be able to offer higher productivity in smaller areas at lower cost. Because breakdowns can cause a fatal chain-reaction in “just in time“ delivery, the reliability of technology becomes even more important than before.