CHICAGO, Sept. 9-With the introduction of KODAK Cutting and Creasing Tables, prepress operations can achieve new levels of predictability of the final printed piece with packaging mockups and comps produced using a KODAK APPROVAL Digital Color Imaging System.
KODAK Digital Cutting and Creasing Tables offer fast, accurate cutting and creasing of substrates used in the mockup, comping and prepress production stages of packaging design.  Producing a scored, cut carton in as little as 60 seconds, the tables use tangential knives and two- or three-point creasing wheels, keeping the substrate in place with a vacuum hold-down feature.
"By using APPROVAL System proofs and an automated cutting table for comps and proofs, prepress operations can reduce the inevitable delays that come from human error, allowing comp makers to focus on the art of creating the package design instead of the workmanlike cutting and scoring," said Vic Stalam, Director of Market Segments and Vice President, Packaging Products, Kodak.  "Prepress and trade shops can increase substantially the number of comps they can produce in a day, allowing them to increase their profitability by serving more customers with stronger, more exact comps in less time."
Available in two sizes, A2 Format at 25.6" x 17.72" (650 x 450mm) and A1 Format of 33.45" x 25.6" (850 x 650mm), the Cutting and Creasing Tables handle a full range of packaging substrates including folding carton, corrugated, and flexible materials. When used in conjunction with the APPROVAL Digital Color Imaging System, the Cutting and Creasing Tables help operators produce comps with accurately matched spot color, ensuring their customers' confidence in the printer's ability to produce perfect product packaging.
The Digital Cutting and Creasing Tables operate using ENGVIEW Package Designer software, an advanced production CAD/CAM system for designers of folding carton and corrugated packaging.  ENGVIEW Package Designer includes a CAM module that drives the cutting tables to produce accurate cut and scores.  A touch-screen control on the cutting table allows users to input all of the specifications for their comp. The table integrates into the production workflow through a USB or network connection, allowing users to send the specifications to the table from a desktop PC.
In addition to cutting, creasing and scoring, the Digital Cutting and Creasing Tables use the scoring tools and the tables' pin registration system to create an embossed effect, pressing a customer logo or other graphics into the comp.  The registration system ensures pinpoint accuracy, producing a precise image and further boosting confidence in the end product.
Service providers who produce comps of products or packaging for pre-release photography will find the KODAK Digital Cutting and Creasing Tables particularly effective, Stalam noted.
"Often, photo-ready product mock-ups need to look even better than the final printed package or manufactured product, because of the stringent requirements of photography and video," he said.  "The combination of KODAK APPROVAL color proofing and the KODAK Digital Cutting and Creasing Table will make the creation of accurate, high-quality comps easier, more predictable and more consistent in quality from one comp to the next."
With its ability to accurately match spot colors across thousands of substrates used in packaging, the APPROVAL Digital Color Imaging System stands out as a premier solution used in packaging prepress applications and in the creation of color accurate mockups and comps. APPROVAL System Proofs are the most specified among agency creative professionals and brand owners worldwide. The APPROVAL Digital Color Imaging System can accurately simulate all production processes, generating millions of brilliant spot, specialty, corporate and brand colors.
KODAK Products are backed by KODAK Service and Support. KODAK Service and Support is made up of more than 3,000 professionals reaching more than 120 countries. It is a leading multi-vendor integrated services provider, delivering consulting, installation, maintenance and support services for the commercial printing, graphic communications, document imaging and data storage industries. KODAK Service and Support professionals are uniquely qualified to provide services that control costs, maximize productivity, and minimize business risk.