InterTech Technology Awards for 2012 have been announced by Printing Industries of America.
An independent panel of judged nominations ranging from digital presses and related enhancements to mobile and web-based software. Advances were demonstrated in colour measurement and control, layout and finishing, security and low migration inks, inkjet and label presses, printable coatings, pressroom analytics, management information systems, and product content management and publishing.
The full list of awards is:
Kodak NexPress Red Fluorescing Solution. This lets printers add security to printed documents, direct mail, and packaging. The virtually invisible dry ink fluoresces red when illuminated with ultraviolet light. The judges singled out the technology for its simple and low-cost approach to adding counterfeit protection.
Enterworks Enable. This is web based software that allows a company to manage complex product information, associated images, and other marketing assets. It then automates the delivery of this content through print and e-commerce channels.
Esko i-cut Suite. A collection of workflow software for users of large-format digital printers, announced at Fespa in February.
Fujifilm Jet Press 720. The B2 format sheet fed inkjet press was first shown as a prototype at drupa 2008 but was announced to be fully available at drupa 2010. The first two commercial installations in north Amercia have been made this year. The judges singled out the Jet Press for ‘its pioneering role in what is expected to be a major pressroom shift to inkjet.’
Heidelberg Prinect Performance Benchmarking. A subscription-based application that lets companies compare the performance of their Speedmaster presses and operators with other printers. One judge said: ‘No one else offers this … it is worth its weight in gold for the printer that takes true advantage of benchmarking.’
Keen Systems MIS and web to print software. A cloud-based platform that allows companies to pick a subscription plan and begin creating storefronts in minutes.
QuadTech colour control and web inspection system for offset presses. This uses a spectral sensor to examine the entire printed image, without the need for control bars. It monitors colour and adjusts inking while detecting a variety of print issues. The judges hailed its unique ability to spot scumming and automatically adjust water.
SunPak LMQ (Low Migration Quality) offset ink. This minimises the risk of contamination to food and other products from chemical migration.
Technique Business Systems iTechnique. A management information system running on iPhone and iPad as a native App, allowing users access to sales and production data wherever they are.
Utopia Digital Technologies Avatrex Transportable Imaging. This is a thin multi-layer coating on a removable carrier that can be digitally printed and transferred to practically any surface. The material has built in adhesive and image protection properties.
Xeikon X-800 VariLane. A software add-on to the X-800 digital front end for the company’s digital label presses. It allows printers to combine labels of different SKUs and sizes on the same digital print run. The judges recognized the advantages for printers when they can dynamically impose labels in the digital front end.
X-Rite i1Pro 2. The new i1Pro 2 spectrophotometer was introduced early this year, replacing the widely used original model. It features an expanded set of features, and supports the latest measurement standards.
Award winners can display the InterTech star symbol with their products. The awards will be presented during the 2012 Premier Print Awards Gala on 7 October in Chicago. A technology review booklet showcasing all of the entries will be introduced at the same time and will also be available for download from the organisation’s website.
Contact: www.printing.org/InterTech
