The ArtiosCAD system is a professional editing suite for packaging manufacturers that allows them to create 2D or 3D designs of cartons and containers for their clients’ products.
When assembling the designs users are able to build a carton into which they can import a 3D model of the product that they wish to package. The v12 suite, which was first previewed at Drupa, can also build packaging around the imported 3D model or calculate how many of a single product will fit within the packaging dimensions and automatically populate the tray, box or carton design.
In version 12, which is available now, Esko has integrated native 3D file import libraries from its technology partner Spatial which, the firm claims, cuts the waiting time for importing 3D models by around 50% compared to the previous iteration, although in some cases, Esko claims, its Beta customers report time savings of up to 75%.
According to Esko product manager structural design, Richard Deroo, importing 3D models was previously a more manual task requiring more time from the designer to formulate the structure on screen. However he said that v12 allows the user to simply build the whole design “in a simple mouse-click”, and then automatically fills the packaging designs with minimal manual intervention.
He added: “This is a truly end-to-end product that encompasses the whole packaging supply chain and allows all stages of the process to communicate effectively and most importantly save time and drive up their efficiency.”
Another new time-saving feature incorporated into ArtiosCAD 12, which Deroo said is particularly aimed at designers working with more complex packaging designs such as for electronics or automotive industries, is the Collision Detection tool.
The feature allows users to create multiple components and segments for packages that can be placed inside one another. The new design component then automatically gives visual feedback when two designs intersect on screen.
Deroo said: “Users will also benefit from the 3D import preview feature, allowing them to select individual parts from a model assembly and view them prior to incorporating them in a design.”
In v12, an ‘Intelligent Dielines’ editing tool also allows brand owners to specify where different art work or barcodes will be placed, by directly building the information into the ArdiosCAD structural file. Information is stored in a secure cloud enabling online communication between all stages from designers and suppliers to brand owners and production.
The system can create both shipping cartons as well as shelf-ready packaging and allows designers to incorporate label and printed areas onto the designs as well as building 3D animations of user tear-away strips and perforations.
In October, Esko will also launch ArtiosCAD 12 Enterprise which will enable users from CAD and graphic designers to suppliers and brand owners to communicate and upload information and designs to a secure cloud.
Deroo said: “We want to keep improving our solutions to help our customers meet increasing demand and get their products out to a wider market and at a lower cost.”
This article originally appeared at printweek.com
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