Abstract: A system includes a cutting station having a laser cutter for cutting surface marks, score lines, holes, slots, flaps, panels, etc. into a selected substrate, an image capture device for capturing digital image data associated with the selected substrate, and a computing system for controlling the cutting process. The computing system 32 initiates a calibration test cycle that 1) cuts a test pattern into the selected substrate; and 2) analyzes the test pattern that was cut into the selected substrate. Based on the results of the analysis of the captured image, the system adjusts the operational parameters of the laser cutter during a subsequent packaging production run utilizing the same substrate type.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed herein for improving the readability of printed bar code symbols. The system may include a print station for printing at least one bar code symbol onto a selected substrate, an optional bar code symbol reader for determining whether the printed bar code symbol is readable, an image capture device for capturing a digital image of the printed bar code symbol, an ink removal station having a laser for removing a portion of the printed bar code symbol, and a computing system. The computing system includes an image analysis module for analyzing the images captured by the image capture device. Based on the results of the analysis of the captured image, the system improves the readability of the printed bar code symbol by removing ink from the printed bar code symbol representative of potential deficiencies caused, in part, by the printing methods employed.

Abstract: A system includes a first scoring station, an optional second scoring station, and a cutting station. The first scoring station includes a stationary platen for supporting a substrate, a movable platen juxtaposed a spaced distance therefrom, and one or more scoring rules operatively associated with the platen and movable between a substrate non-contact position and a substrate contact position by the platen. The scoring rules may be independently movable in a selective manner for creating score lines at selective locations along the substrate when the platen moves the scoring rules into the substrate contact position. The scoring rules may be configured with scoring blades having selectively adjustable lengths and locations. The scoring rules may be constructed of a plurality of scoring segments that form the scoring blade. Each scoring segment is selectively movable between a scoring position and a non-scoring position for creating customizable score line lengths and locations.

Abstract: A system includes a cutting station having a laser cutter for cutting surface marks, score lines, holes, slots, flaps, panels, etc. into a selected substrate, an image capture device for capturing digital image data associated with the selected substrate, and a computing system for controlling the cutting process. The computing system 32 initiates a calibration test cycle that 1) cuts a test pattern into the selected substrate; and 2) analyzes the test pattern that was cut into the selected substrate. Based on the results of the analysis of the captured image, the system adjusts the operational parameters of the laser cutter during a subsequent packaging production run utilizing the same substrate type.

Abstract: A system includes a first scoring station, an optional second scoring station, and a cutting station. The first scoring station includes a stationary platen for supporting a substrate, a movable platen juxtaposed a spaced distance therefrom, and one or more scoring rules operatively associated with the platen and movable between a substrate non-contact position and a substrate contact position by the platen. The scoring rules may be independently movable in a selective manner for creating score lines at selective locations along the substrate when the platen moves the scoring rules into the substrate contact position. The scoring rules may be configured with scoring blades having selectively adjustable lengths and locations. The scoring rules may be constructed of a plurality of scoring segments that form the scoring blade. Each scoring segment is selectively movable between a scoring position and a non-scoring position for creating customizable score line lengths and locations.

Abstract: A print verification system includes a print station for printing an image and a test pattern onto a selected substrate, an image capture device for capturing a digital image of the test pattern, and a computing system for controlling the printing process. The computing system includes an image analysis module for analyzing the images captured by the image capture device. Upon analysis of the captured image, the system is capable of generating an alert signal if a determination is made that the pattern is representative of an adverse operational condition.