By Olivia Cahoon
Part 2 of 2
Software solutions for routers and cutters streamline production for an efficient workflow. They offer users useful features like estimating finishing time, ideal tool accessories, and saving job profiles.
As discussed in part one of this series, print providers implementing cutting software should consider if the software integrates with third party CRM, ERP, and RIP solutions for direct accessible data.
Cutting Software
Colex Cut Center Vision Registration was released in May 2017 and is included with the Colex Sharpcut flatbed cutter. It is compatible with all major RIP software programs from Caldera, EFI, and Onyx Graphics, Inc. and is designed to be user friendly. “Colex Cut Center imports over 30 file formats, creating cut files in an array of design software,” says Dylan Hoffman, engineer, Colex. The software features edge recognition, high-resolution camera, material library, and overcut compensation.
Released in June 2016, Esko’s i-cut Production Console 2.0 is compatible with Esko Kongsberg tables and features MultiZone production. MultiZone production divides the surface of the Kongsberg table into two or more zones. “This allows production in one zone while the operator offloads the finished jobs and puts new material in the other zones,” says George Folickman, business development director, digital finishing, Esko. i-cut Production Console 2.0 integrates with ArtiosCAD for direct access to ArtiosCAD files and curve optimization. According to Folickman, with intelligent curve optimizations, designers don’t have to worry about the best cut methods for designs.
MCT Digital’s TigerVision was released in October 2016 and is only available on the VersaTech2 cutter by MCT Digital. It features a material library, table and media topography mapping, single user interface and machine control, vision and deformations for all fabric applications, and a comprehensive editor feature for file preparation and optimization. “TigerVision combines vision, editing, and machine control features in a simple, intuitive, and modern application allowing full operation of the VersaTech cutting system from a single user interface with minimal training required,” says Michael Frawley, VP of sales, MCT Digital.
In 2010, Zünd released the Zünd Cut Center (ZCC), an interactive user interface compatible with Zünd D3, G3, and S3 series router/cutters. It features import and export features for integration with CRM, ERP, and RIPs. For production management, workflow automation, and batch processing, the ZCC features a cut queue with hot folders. Its production time calculations are used for quoting, billing, and production planning. Greg Soya, North American channel manager, Zünd, says the software also features print-to-cut registration for perfectly placed cuts despite print or material distortions, skews, user-definable register marks, and edge recognition.
Smooth Production
Workflow solutions are essential to digital production environments, especially in a finishing department. With the proper cutting software print providers can facilitate each phase of production from prepress and job setup functions to production speed. The latest cutting software helps control and enhance finishing solutions while optimizing production efficiency.
Click here to read part one of this exclusive online series, Productive Finishing
Click on the link above to get more information on the vendors mentioned in this article.
Oct2017, Digital Output
DOCS1710
