Mimaki partners with Esko to simplify short-run digital packaging production via its new OGPS System

Mimaki has announced a joint development with Esko to simplify the digital packaging production for companies that produce packaging samples, mock-ups, small packing runs and personalized packaged goods. The new Original Goods Package System (OGPS) from Mimaki is comprised of three components:

1. ArtiosCAD Designer Solution (ArtiosCAD DS), a subset of Esko’s industry-leading ArtiosCAD, the world’s most widely used package design CAD software, including 400 easy-to-use templates as well as tools for original package creation.
2. Mimaki UJF-6042, an LED UV inkjet flatbed printer with maximum printing dimensions of 24” x 16.5”. It can be used to print on a product, as well as to print product packaging.
3. Mimaki CFL-605 RT Cutting Plotter supporting on-demand production with multiple functions, including cutting and creasing of packaging material and cutting of package cushioning.

“Packaging converters, commercial printers and design firms are experiencing a growing demand for a more cost-effective means of producing samples, mock-ups and small lots of customized or personalized packaging,” said Mike Horsten, General Manager, Marketing, Mimaki EMEA. “Our goal was to simplify the process of packaging design and production to bring professional packaging design within the reach of original goods manufacturers of all sizes. By combining a subset of the market-leading ArtiosCAD software by Esko with affordable printing and cutting technology from Mimaki, our Original Goods Package System is well-positioned to change the way small-lot packaging is designed and produced.”

How the process works
To create a package design, the user selects one of the 400 professionally pre-designed templates included with ArtiosCAD DS, and enters the inside package dimensions and thickness of the media to be used (more detailed parameters as well as shapes and sizes of flaps can also be specified). The system then creates a package design file that can be imported into Adobe Illustrator where graphics can be added. Users also have specialized tools to create their own custom designs and include them in the final design. The system offers a total solution not only for the design and creation of product packaging and cushioning, but also for printing directly onto a product. Users that don’t need the pre-designed templates can create custom designs with the guide function.
“Once a design is final,” Horsten added, “It can be printed in exceptional quality on the UJF-6042 in full colour – and if needed with varnish effects. The printed design can then be cut and creased using the CFL-605RT cutting plotter that matches the printer size. A finished package can literally be produced in minutes, either as a mock-up or sample using actual target substrates, for small-lot packaging production, and even personalized or serialized packages. This total solution will allow designers, packaging converters, commercial printers and small manufacturers to revolutionize the way they design and produce small lot packaging,” he added.
The Original Goods Packaging System (OGPS) is available from resellers and distributors as an option to the CFL605RT cutting plotter from Mimaki.