A new production module allows for Braille to be embossed at the optimum stage of the production process, thus lowering costs. This BOBST Group innovation also brings design to the fore, with significantly improved dot height giving superior readability.
Developments are numerous in the folding carton industry, as equipment is required to become more and more versatile. In addition to highly technical die-cut and folded methods, development continues through even more sophisticated innovations such as embossing, hot foil stamping, holograms and Braille embossing.
The AccuBraille module is among BOBST Group’s most recent developments. It took 18 months of R&D work with a team of five people to design an in-line solution to BOBST’s exacting quality standards. Integrated in a machine that folds and glues cartons, it also embosses Braille dots.
Compared to the Braille embossing of the cartons at the cutting and creasing stage, this solution brings advantages that enable converters to cope in a highly efficient manner, in accordance with the European regulation on pharmaceutical packages.
Make or break
Braille embossing creates various production challenges. When applied at the stage of die-cutting, it induces costs caused by the requirement to purchase as many embossing tools as there are cartons on a printed sheet. Consequently, users felt that it would be much more cost-efficient instead to apply Braille at the final point in the entire process, the folder-gluer, where the cartons are taken one by one. The AccuBraille module removes the need to emboss on the die-cutter and brings several further benefits:
- Significant dot height improvement providing easier reading for end-users.
- The make-ready time of the die-cutter is faster (no set-up of embossing tools).
- The die-cutter will have fewer stops (less cleaning of embossing tools).
- Fewer challenges on the folder-gluer because the boxes are embossed in the section following its feeder, and therefore improved run-ability of the gluer as the AccuBraille module is mounted after the feeder (no blanks stuck together).
- The set-up of tools takes less than five minutes and no additional staffing is required.
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Accubraille's ability to emboss braille close to the cut or creased edges could improve
efficiency under european regulation and incorporate more interesting design possibilities
 Design to the fore
AccuBraille brings with it the possibility of applying embossing very close to the cut or creased edges and, therefore, more interesting design possibilities. Crucially, none of this added functionality has effected productivity - it functions at normal speed for pharmaceutical boxes (75,000 boxes/hour). The system works according to the Marburg Medium standard, with a maximum of four lines, and handles materials ranging from 200 to 500gsm.
AccuBraille was introduced in March 2007 when 170 people, all pharmaceutical packaging producers from across Europe, visited a BOBST open house. Live demonstrations showed the Mistral 80 A1 folder-gluer incorporating the AccuBraille module, which was working with a Cartonpack GT, end-of-the-line packing solution, integrating the optional full-speed sampling device, a unit especially suited to products that require inspection checks. On this occasion, BOBST also displayed a machine ordered by the Blind Institute from Lausanne and developed in 1915 by Henri Bobst to emboss Braille.
Company profile
BOBST Group is a worldwide leading supplier of equipment and services to packaging manufacturers in the folding carton, corrugated board and flexible materials industries. Founded in 1890 and based in Lausanne-Switzerland, BOBST has always been focusing on products that meet with current markets’ requirements.
For more information visit Website: www.bobstgroup.com
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