Controls & Machine Components

Entry-level RFID

Schober USA has introduced an entry-level machine that places RFID transponders under preprinted labels, for a cost-effective RFID solution. Technology works with transponders in accordance with ISO specifications, in widths from 10 mm to 160 mm.

May 31, 2005

Leaders (UNIVERSAL TAXONOMY PW): Page 1463

Controls & Machine Components

Beckhoff Automation: Enhanced stepper control

The new Beckhoff KL2531 and KL2541 stepper motion terminals are a compact and cost-effective I/O alternative to traditional stepper controls. These advanced drive technology Bus Terminals integrate a compact motion control solution for small stepper motors to 200 W, eliminating the need for remote amplifiers.

May 31, 2005

Controls & Machine Components

Comtrol Corp.: PLC/serial device connectivity

The DeviceMaster® UP from Comtrol is the first device server designed to act as a “universal translator,” enabling connectivity between any PLC and any serial device residing on the factory floor using the Profinet, EtherNet/IP, or Modbus/TCP protocol.

May 31, 2005

Closures

Extended text label

Chaucer Press has introduced an extended-text, resealable product label. Whether produced for cut-label or p-s applications, the label provides for the lot and expiration date or other pertinent information to remain visible on the product container in the event that the top label is removed.

May 31, 2005

Coding, Printing & Labeling

Interphex conference reviews validation

The issue of validation—for processes within a pharmaceutical facility—generated a buzz throughout the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center during Interphex 2005, held in New York April 26-28.

May 31, 2005

Closures

Tube and NACD winners announced

Recently announced were the winners in this year’s Tubes of the Year competition, sponsored by The Tube Council, and in the Package of the Year Awards competition, sponsored by the National Association of Container Distributors.

May 31, 2005

Blisters/clamshells/thermoforming materials

Tylenol questioned about Meltaway packs

The Maryland Poison Center has warned that the packaging and label copy of a new form of Children’s Tylenol could confuse parents and even medical professionals to accidentally offer a double dose that could cause liver damage.

May 31, 2005

Closures

P&G gets a handle on fabric softener packs

Last summer, when Procter & Gamble began to sell its premium Downy Simple Pleasures liquid fabric softener to club stores, it made a decision to market twin packs of its 52-oz retail bottles rather than create a larger container size.

May 31, 2005

Adhesives/tape

Oven box displays cool 'smarts'

One of the coolest “smart packaging” efforts comes from appliance marketer Euro-Pro, Plattsburgh, NY, for its convection toaster oven packed in a corrugated box whose technology hits several smart packaging hot buttons.

May 31, 2005

Conveying & accumulation

Court rules on patent violation

The United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois Eastern Division has granted equipment manufacturer Garvey Corp.’s motion for a preliminary injunction to prevent Barry-Wehmiller Design Group, Fleetwood, Inc., and any related companies from manufacturing, displaying, promoting, marketing, selling, shipping, distributing, or installing any of Fleetwood’s CMAS product accumulators.

May 31, 2005

Coding, Printing & Labeling

Ross Labs speaker provides an RFID update

In his HealthPack 2005 presentation, Mike Wallace of Abbott Laboratories’ Ross Laboratories Division noted that Ross’s Isomil infant formula ranks as the fourth most frequently stolen product from its top customer, Wal-Mart.

May 31, 2005

Coding, Printing & Labeling

What does the price of gasoline have to do with healthcare packaging?

Gas prices continue to climb. Airlines and trucking companies are the hardest hit.

May 31, 2005

Bag/pouch fill/seal (pre-made bags)

Mechatronics looms large

Jerry Butler, production manager at food manufacturer ARC-diversified of Cookeville, TN, says a new skill set is required to deal effectively with today’s packaging machinery.

May 31, 2005