Horizon International, Inc. (Horizon) has unveiled the SmartStacker, developed for operation with the new HP Indigo 10000 Digital Press, HP’s first B2-size (20”x29”) sheet-fed digital press.

The SmartStacker slits B2-size sheets and stacks the output for downstream finishing. Sheets output at the desired size removes costly labor steps from the process and shifts the business argument from simple “cost per page” to “cost per finished document,” while significant reducing job turnaround time.

Horizon developed the SmartStacker in close technical cooperation with HP Indigo. The SmartStacker slits a B2-size sheet into a maximum of 28 individual sheets, with seven slits in one direction and four in the other. Slit sheets can be either offset or straight stacked for different applications. The SmartStacker can also be connected in-line with Horizon finishers, such as a saddlestitcher or a perfect binder for even greater production efficiency. The SmartStacker can be operated in-line with the HP Indigo 10000 Digital Press or used as a near-line system to serve multiple printing devices. Horizon has also developed the Finishing Line Controller (FLC) to control all setup and operation of the SmartStacker. The FLC will communicate with the HP Indigo 10000 and the HP SmartStream Production Pro digital front end, and also integrate with HP end-to-end workflow solutions for fully automated JDF set-up.

“Graphic communications customers have different finishing requirements today due to the rapid rise of digital printing. Customers require simple, automated solutions to produce short run, ultra-short run and personalized books or booklets”, said Eijiro Hori, Managing Director of Horizon International Inc. “The new SmartStacker will help customers minimize costs and maximize finishing productivity and profit.”

“We are delighted and proud that Horizon has chosen to collaborate with us. You cannot fail to be impressed with its SmartStacker” said Alon Bar-Shany, Vice President and General Manager, Indigo Division, HP. “Customers using the HP Indigo 10000 Digital Press in combination with the Horizon SmartStacker will have an unprecedented opportunity to streamline high-volume, fully digital end-to-end production.”

The advanced technology in the HP Indigo digital press makes operation significantly simpler and easier versus conventional printing methods. The same simplicity and efficiency are needed in associated finishing products and processes. The SmartStacker can eliminate the traditional folding or cutting of B2-size printed sheets. Folding and cutting typically require skilled operators since these steps determine the end-quality of finished products or books. The SmartStacker helps redefine the finishing workflow by removing labor and touch points for greater efficiency.

The Horizon SmartStacker will be demonstrated in the HP Indigo booth at drupa 2012 (Germany) in May and at Graph Expo 2012 (U.S.) in October. Horizon has targeted mid-year 2013 for release of the SmartStacker.

Horizon International Inc., based in Kyoto, Japan, is a leading manufacturer of state-of-the-art print finishing and paper handling systems. Horizon is the only company in the world that manufactures products in all four key finishing categories: folding, binding, saddlestitching and cutting. Horizon has a global sales and service network of independent dealers in over 100 countries.