Esko Software 20.1: more value-added features

Developed for packaging and label printers as well as large format printing, the new Esko Software 20.1 integrated platform was released in November, along with new hardware solutions. The goal: to improve packaging production cycle operations by supporting the digital transformation path of businesses.

«Esko’s latest software updates not only offer greater accuracy, efficiency and consistency in the design and print workflow, but are also essential tools for packaging manufacturers who want to embark on a digital converting journey». With these words, Jan de Roeck, director of industrial relations and strategy at Esko, sums up the goals of Esko’s recent developments.

Speaking at the launch event streamed live on the Esko Innovation Hub (a virtual environment where users can explore the full range of Esko solutions), de Roeck explained the wide range of options available in the Esko Software 20.1 release, as well as the latest hardware developments.

Improved usability and efficiency guaranteed

Updates and new features in Esko Software 20.1.

• WebCenter 20.0: the latest feature-packed version of the web-based packaging management solution, now incorporates an improved user experience and WebCenter Tasks Plugin. Digital transformation can only be successful if the solution is fully adapted to the user’s requirements, and with the addition of a social-media style dashboard and new connectors for Adobe Creative Suite applications, WebCenter does just that.
• ArtiosCAD 20.0.1: the leading packaging structural design tool simplifies designing of multi-part and multi-material packages using Resizable Canvas Design templates.

• ArtPro+ 20.1 Plate Cut: automated feature that finds the optimal individual cutting path for each separation, reducing preparation time for flexo plate mounting by up to 30 minutes.

• ArtPro+ 20.1 Trapping: a new trapping algorithm which closes misregister gaps and accommodates individual exceptions, making trapping jobs up to 70 per cent faster.
• Print Control Wizard for the corrugated market: it delivers quicker plate production, improved graphic performance and reduced costs.
• AVT AutoSet: an integration between Esko Automation Engine and AVT’s press inspection system, reducing setup time of the inspection system to almost zero.

Alongside updating Esko Software 20, Esko revealed hardware innovations including Kongsberg VariAngle tool (digital finishing equipment that enables cutting at any angle from 0o and 60o at high speed) and Crystal XPS 4260 (UV LED exposure units for digital flexo plate making, available for the first time in this plate size).