HYBRID Software Releases iC3D Suite 9.5 for Precision and Flexibility in Packaging Innovation

(Ghent, Belgium) HYBRID Software is pleased to announce the release of iC3D Suite version 9.5, which introduces new features and user experience updates for the innovative packaging design and visualization software. The significant enhancements streamline the workflow for packaging professionals and graphic designers.

The new version introduces expanded support for additional 3D file formats, including GLTF, GLB, and FBX. These formats are widely used in the industry and offer efficient data transmission, compatibility, and precision in 3D scene data. This enhancement will allow users to import and export these formats, providing greater flexibility and efficiency in their 3D design processes.

iC3D 9.5 also brings major improvements to the internal PDF Editor. Users can now select Page Boxes of the PDF files being used, and improvements have been made to PDF layer visibility. These features leverage front-line technology from HYBRID Software’s own PACKZ PDF Libraries, delivering an elevated user experience and increasing productivity.

States Product Manager Heath Luetkens, “The PDF Editor is now available for the Select and Designer editions of iC3D in addition to our full-featured iC3D Suite. This expansion of features to more versions of the software ensures that a wider range of users can benefit from the enhanced capabilities of the PDF Editor.”

iC3D 9.5 continues to deliver on Hybrid Software’s commitment to providing fast, accurate, and photorealistic 3D virtual prototypes or press-ready proofs for the packaging design industry.

Visitors of drupa 2024 will be able to experience iC3D at the new Touchpoint Packaging arena in Hall 3 Stand B31 and at Hybrid Software’s booth in Hall 7A Stand D03.

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Download the press release here

(Ghent, Belgium) HYBRID Software, developer of innovative productivity tools for label & package printing, has launched Version 9.5 of its PACKZ and STEPZ packaging and label editors. Version 9.5 is a significant upgrade which includes several new technologies and numerous enhancements to improve operator productivity for digital, flexo, and offset printing of labels and packaging.

HYBRID Software’s new Colorspace color management technology is accessible from within both PACKZ and STEPZ, providing color consistency between different printing methods like flexo and digital printing as well as between different digital printing devices themselves.  Its easy-to-use interface simplifies the process of high-quality color conversion and optimization of CMYK, RGB, multicolor and expanded gamut printing.  The sophisticated technology uses spectral data, supports CxF/X-4 spot color definitions, and builds DeviceLink profiles on-the-fly with a high color accuracy across all printing methods, allowing packaging to be easily moved from flexo or offset printing to digital print production.

HYBRID Software’s Packzimizer now offers lane planning for efficient gang printing of roll-fed digital labels, while cut-and-stack labels that are printed in bulk on large sheets profit from the cost-effective block imposition with less wastage in cutting and finishing. The full complement of step and repeat solutions in PACKZ and STEPZ support all varieties of package printing and production methods while automating the layout process.

PACKZ 9.5 also marks the introduction of CAPTURE 3D, an optional expert application for shrink sleeve quality and 3D modeling. “We successfully showcased CAPTURE 3D at Labelexpo Brussels earlier this year, mapping 2D artwork to 3D modeling. With innovative technology of CAPTURE 3D, precise grid distortion can be performed in minutes instead of days, speeding up time to market while improving quality. And since CAPTURE 3D eliminates dead zones, shrink sleeves gain valuable real estate for increased visual appeal and brand awareness,” remarks Product Manager Pascal Wybo. PACKZ and STEPZ integrate with Capture 3D to display the compensation of artwork shrinkage live in a visually realistic 3D preview.

Last but not least, PACKZ’s industry-leading trapping technology, which compensates for unacceptable gaps between artwork elements during flexo printing, gets a major upgrade in PACKZ 9.5.
The Trap Rules feature models how artwork edges should be trapped and increase the efficiency and quality of trapping for both images and graphic elements in an interactive and automated prepress process.

Discover all innovative productivity tools of the only all-in-one PDF editors for label and packaging graphics at www.hybridsoftware.com.

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Discover our brand-new Packzimizer overview video for intelligent lane planning for digital print production.

Integrated within our PACKZ editor, Packzimizer intelligently analyzes the order data to optimize your labels’ layout and repetitions on the roll based on quantity. Achieve best possible utilization of your rolls, increase press uptime and minimize substrate waste.

• Intelligent algorithms for ganging labels or packaging
• Quantity-based
• Output print ready impositions for roll- fed digital printing

Contact us today to learn more about adopting intuitive and powerful HYBRID tools for your print production.

Introducing Capture 3D

Our newest technology, Capture 3D, is an optional expert application for on the mark 3D modeling and shrink sleeve quality. Via 2D artwork to 3D modeling mapping, heat shrinkage is accurately compensated, and results can be shared in a visually realistic 3D preview. With innovative technology, precise and easy grid distortion can take place in minutes instead of days, speeding up customers’ time to market drastically. And since Capture 3D eliminates dead zones,  your customers’ packaging gains valuable real estate for increased visual appeal and brand awareness.

How does it work?

The process begins by selecting the 3D grid pattern most applicable to your printing technique and packaging. Once chosen, print the grid and shrink the pattern around the model. Reflex cameras are then used to accurately scan 360 degrees of the model.

This generates a unique grid which compensates for distortion and is uploaded to Capture 3D. In the last step, the 3D artwork is mapped to a 3D model, which can then be shared as part of the HYBRID workflow for approvals and then sent on its way to print.

Processes which usually take days to perfect are integrated into a smooth workflow and completed in minutes. Contact us today to start your journey to unmatched shrink sleeve quality.

Introducing Colorspace

• Facts-based estimation empowering print buyers, estimators, and prepress professionals
• Visual and ∆E reporting for informed decision-making
• Flexible output routing for automated color conversions to conventional, digital and hybrid print conditions
• Convenient experience for non-expert users
• Includes ColorLogic state-of-the-art spectral color technology
• Optimizes production costs through Extended Color Gamut printing and ink-saving technology

We are excited to announce the brand new color management solution accessible from within CLOUDFLOW. Colorspace redefines color management for labels & packaging, powered by HYBRID Software’s CLOUDFLOW enterprise workflow and state-of-the-art spectral color technology from ColorLogic.

Colorspace optimizes production costs through Extended Color Gamut printing and ink saving technology. By expanding the color gamut and intelligently reducing ink consumption, packaging printers save costs (fewer plates, less ink, or fewer digital ‘clicks’) while maintaining exceptional print quality and color matching across all printing methods, analog and digital.

Maximizing efficiency is at the core of Colorspace’s design, with data-driven color analysis for automated decision-making. This automation optimizes production workflows by reducing consumables and increasing press uptime.

To provide comprehensive insights into spot color performance, CLOUDFLOW Colorspace offers essential tools like Proofscope and ∆E reporting. These tools visually and quantitatively analyze spot color accuracy, empowering print buyers, estimators, and prepress professionals with valuable data for informed decision-making.

Tailored to meet specific print conditions, Colorspace boasts a late-binding solution with advanced matching styles and decision analysis, perfect for the packaging and label industry. Colorspace brings a new level of automation to spot color matching in a comprehensive, all-in-one color management solution. 

Introducing iC3D + CLOUDFLOW: the next-level automated 3D rendering solution. Combining iC3D’s visualization capabilities with CLOUDFLOW’s automation prowess for streamlined content creation. Generate stunning imagery and e-commerce assets entirely automated. Contact us to learn more.

HYBRID Software’s PACKZ Version 9 Becomes Only All-in-One Packaging Editor

(Ghent, Belgium) HYBRID Software, developer of innovative productivity tools for labels & package printing, has released Version 9 of its PACKZ native PDF editor with significant enhancements in design automation, color management, 3D visualization, advanced trapping, and ganging of multiple jobs in a single print layout. These new features make PACKZ the only all-in-one editor for labels and packaging graphics that runs on both the Mac and PC platforms without the need for plug-ins or expensive 3rd party subscriptions.

“Nearly ten years ago we released the first version of PACKZ with the goal of providing a ‘Swiss Army knife’ of prepress tools in a single application, supporting both Windows and Mac, with no need for plug-ins. We’ve been very successful in this approach and have sold more than 5,000 copies of PACKZ, but many users still relied on other software for package design, 3D rendering, color management, ganging, etc. But with recent acquisitions by Hybrid Software Group, as well as continuous innovation by our crack team of software developers, we’ve closed that gap with PACKZ Version 9, and we will increase our customers’ efficiencies even further in future versions,” says Patrick Coussement, Co-President of Hybrid Software.

In response to increasing consumer demand for smart packaging, PACKZ 9 adds support for Content XML, a highly efficient solution for creating graphic designs using industry-standard XML data. Content XML provides an automated tool for managing nutrition facts and ingredients panels, anti-counterfeit labels, language translations, and variable data for digital output of labels and packaging.

PACKZ 9’s Advanced Color option incorporates technology from sister company ColorLogic GmbH to provide an accurate snapshot of printed artwork under various printing conditions, including different spot color strategies. The feature is designed to help label and packaging producers accurately reproduce brand colors using the fewest number of inks and the least amount of each ink to achieve the lowest cost and most sustainable production.

PACKZ 9 incorporates the newest rendering capabilities of iC3D, HYBRID’s photorealistic 3D visualization software, to provide instantaneous virtual prototypes of even the most complex packaging artwork and embellishments on-the-fly. IC3D uses real-time ray tracing technology to produce accurate and high-quality virtual proofs which can reduce or even eliminate the need to print physical proofs.

Product Manager Pascal Wybo remarks, “PACKZ 9 brings an updated version of Packzimizer for automated lane planning of digital package printing as well as stacked label imposition for sheet-fed cut & stack label production. We’ve also added enhancements to the trapping algorithm to allow different trap widths for different inks, based on opacity or specific printing conditions. This was requested by our customers and we listened and responded to their needs.”

PACKZ 9 supports both digital and analog printing: flexo, offset, and gravure. STEPZ 9 is a streamlined product designed for digital printing only. Both new products will be showcased at Hybrid Software Group’s booth #8B45 at Labelexpo Europe from September 11th to 14th, 2023.

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Download the press release here

Press Preview, from our latest module Advanced Color allows users to instantly visualize their printed artwork under various printing conditions. Spot colors can be defined as named Pantone colors or specified directly using the CXF standard. In addition, PACKZ and STEPZ now support the new GMG Version 2 API for full compatibility with the latest GMG Open Color software. Contact us today to learn more.

Content XML is our latest feature integration for standard markup language, allowing print service shops to drive production through XML variable data from their ERP or MIS systems. The creative variation of text, linework, colour, and images can be easily leveraged in digital print-on-demand web solutions for engaging one-to-one packaging. Contact us today to learn more.

Customers can now add digital watermarks to their artwork with just a few simple clicks. The implementation of digital watermarks enables users to encode crucial digital data into their artwork surface with an imperceivable pattern to the human eye. These tools within PACKZ and STEPZ are ideal for those looking to incorporate brand identity protection into their packaging, as well as intelligent packaging recycling for proper waste material sorting. Contact us today to learn more.

Did you know our PDF editors offer in-app solutions to ease daily prepress tasks?

The lead in and out solution is just one of many time-saving tools available today that save our customers clicks. Contact us to learn more about creating a seamless prepress workflow.

Corrugated Packaging Prepress in PACKZ 

PACKZ and STEPZ PDF editors introduce innovative technology at all levels of the packaging industry. The Safety Zone Corrector for corrugated prepress is made with the advanced automation tool Pactions, in which creative prepress teams turn their solution thinking into a completely new personalized editing tool.

Safety Zone Corrector: available in MARS now

The Safety Zone Corrector highlights cut, crease, and scorelines, and allows movement of overlapping artwork elements with a simple drag and drop action in a safe zone. Available now in MARS, the PACKZ and STEPZ in-app solutions store.

Introducing CLOUDFLOW’s customizable and secure approval workflow

CLOUDFLOW for approvals is the surefire way for a flawless labels and packaging production cycle. CLOUDFLOW’s two-step approval allows for internal and external approvals in one interactive HTML workflow. CLOUDFLOW’s features for additional security and customization get your files approved faster and easier. Watch the video to learn more or visit cloudflow.hybridsoftware.com.

With CLOUDFLOW PageBuilder customers are able to create custom web-interfaces on their own. For example, like queuing systems for all output devices or considering different substrates. Combining these interfaces with Packzimizer allows users to intelligently gang different designs based on their quantities and finishing options. Watch the introduction to our Packzimizer Hub in the video below.

A Closer Look at PACKZ and STEPZ PDF Editors

Pascal Wybo, Product Manager of PACKZ shares, “to succeed in a highly competitive label and packaging supply chain, companies are constantly looking for opportunities to elevate the productivity of their prepress processes. HYBRID Software fulfills this by providing an endless loop of viable solutions and products that blend human expertise with technology.”

LICOS – HYRID Software’s License Control System provides global license accessibility and flexibility to PACKZ and STEPZ license holders from anywhere in the world. Via its web-based control interface, licenses can be dynamically distributed in for seasonal or cyclical demands.

MARS – PACKZ and STEPZ are the only PDF editors with a built-in solution store. MARS offers ready-made dynamic marks and digital proof templates, automatic action lists and tools, preflight templates, color books, work environments, and more. The PDF editors also come with a link to HYBRID Software’s e-learning platform.

Environments – brings an à la carte user interface fine-tuned to the operator’s needs and comfort. PACKZ and STEPZ workspaces are accessible across multiple monitors and store presets, customized functions and tools, menu items based on job requirements, and create unique parameter sets based on client expectations.

Barcodes – PACKZ and STEPZ’s Barcode Scanner readily detects barcodes in linework and images and adapts them to match the artwork and printing conditions. Digital watermark elements are added to artwork using traceable barcodes to ensure brand integrity.

CLOUDFLOW Modular Workflow Suite

Intelligent Flexo – Intelligent Flexo not only offers a way to avoid issues such as trailing edge void, pin holing, dot gain and bridging, but does this while maintaining a completely agnostic approach to RIP vendor, CTP manufacturer, or plate supplier. Whether a file is screened with CLOUDFLOW RIP or another 3rd party solution, vast image manipulation and surface screening capabilities provide all the tools you’d need to treat problem areas individually with the unique attention that it requires. This toolset allows trade shops and printers to improve the quality and speed of both plate production and printing, reduce costs by using less ink, and fully automate their processes.

Tectonics – A web accessible plate layout and optimisation module for Flexo and Corrugated markets. It offers a wealth of cost and time saving features including automatic plate cropping and waste management: lending itself for maximising plate utilisation and intelligently reusing plate waste thus saving on expensive materials. Most recently, Tectonics boasts staggered cutting functionality which supports PDF cutting definitions and integrates seamlessly with PACKZ 8.0. Not to mention the ability to drive various CTP, cutting table, and mounting units.

MARS – The in-app store is not only limited to PACKZ and STEPZ but is also available within CLOUDFLOW. Here users can find a library of pre-built applications maintained by HYBRID Software which include workflows, files, and interfaces which can be installed and used with a single click.

The benefits of CLOUDFLOW’s Proofscope

It can be very expensive and time-consuming to capture a mistake on the press, instead of beforehand in prepress. That’s why it’s essential to have the right tools at your fingertips and tailored for the task at hand. Proofscope offers an incredible level of file inspection and QA with the powerful LRM (Live Render Mode) feature-set that facilitates layer toggling and deep zooming to check trapping and other small details even on specific layers.

Compare your artwork in Proofscope gallery view

To make the whole process more efficient, the newest addition of Proofscope gallery view has been added to allow prepress managers to compare reference files, last-minute changes, or other artworks quickly and accurately.

Access our unique gateway with the in-app solutions store in PACKZ and STEPZ

HYBRID Software has created a unique gateway to cutting-edge solutions through access to the PACKZ and STEPZ in-app solutions store.

Conveniently build premium-quality prepress services faster and more accurately with ready-made dynamic marks, augmented infopanels, swatch libraries, color books, and dedicated Paction tools. Access the world of rich and intuitive parameterized action lists, XML export templates, and much more in the solutions store today.

Benefit instantly from the PDF-editors’ in-app store and focus on your core business instead of working out do-it-yourself solutions. What are you waiting for? HYBRID Software has a team of technology specialists ready to assist you to achieve packaging excellence!

Watch the video

Get in the driver’s seat of your production management with Cockpit

Cockpit is our process management module for the print production of labels and folding cartons. In our orderly, browser-based application, job, item and tool properties are driven directly from your ERP/MIS system, while process and workflow templates for file delivery, editing, correction and approval cycles, step-and-repeat, and RIP-output are always ready for use.

Due to these key features, Cockpit delivers increased efficiency through high-level automation and organization. As a result, Cockpit simplifies the collaboration between customers, sales, and prepress operators tremendously. Discover more about Cockpit from CLOUDFLOW’s web-based application.

Watch the introduction video

Puzzling over making seamless pattern repeats for sealed blister packaging, gift papers and security threads? PACKZ suggests hundreds of solutions in a fraction of a second matching with your production needs.

How does it work?
Load and set the preferred cylinder dimensions in the tabular step and repeat, and link one or multiple artworks with it. Users can simply request to make a seamless repetition by setting the desired orientation and stagger arrangement. PACKZ PDF Editor lets you search, filter and choose the solution that fits the unique production needs, while the seamless repetition automatically adapts for smooth plate making and mounting. Finally, dynamic marks and cutting lines are added for further uses in CLOUDFLOW Tectonics, HYBRID Software’s high-performance Flexo Plate Layout solution.

Learn more about taking the next step to PACKZ and achieving your prepress goals with maximum efficiency or contact us for more information.

HYBRID Software Announces Release of Version 7.5 of PACKZ PDF Editor for Labels & Packaging

(Ghent, Belgium) Version 7.5 of PACKZ, HYBRID Software’s native PDF editor, delivers the next generation of prepress software for labels and packaging. STEPZ 7.5 is being released concurrently for digital printing applications. Both tools provide bespoke solutions for prepress experts who require high efficiency, quality, and performance in preparing packaging files for conventional or digital printing.

Production jobs in the packaging industry have been increasing and as a result, many package printers and converters are converting to data-driven production. Pactions 7.5, the automated toolset in PACKZ and STEPZ with parameterized action lists, responds to the needs of these customers for advanced automation. This powerful tool decreases the amount of operator time needed to get a new package design edited, approved, and printed and connects seamlessly to packaging RIPs, workflows, and Digital Front Ends (DFEs). Pactions can also be used for barcode generation, including the GS1 Digital Link Datamatrix code.

In-App Solution Store
PACKZ and STEPZ now offer a direct link to HYBRID Software’s online store, allowing customers to download ready-made templates, dynamic marks, and metadata export filters quickly as required for new production methods or job types.

Key Improvements 7.5 Versions
Both PACKZ and STEPZ 7.5 support the newest M1 processors from Apple for real-time editing.

Complex layered artwork can be viewed in color and wired mode simultaneously, and object-based screenings can be inspected per separation. Enhancements to the Smart Flattener guarantee artwork quality and consistency, professionally managing spot color and transparency interactions as well as press gamut conversions.

PACKZ 7.5 automatically tags artwork elements with Processing Steps defined in the ISO 19593 standard, while the Analyze and Fix technology checks incoming files for compliance.

HYBRID Software continues to champion innovation on behalf of label and packaging printers and tradeshops to surpass their requirements for accuracy, cost reduction, process automation, and faster turnaround times.

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Download the press release here

PACKZ In-App Solution Store

Ready-made solutions are just a few mouse clicks away with the PACKZ in-app solutions store. Just search, download, and instantly use solutions, such as the instant application of information panels. PACKZ is the only PDF editor with a built-in app store containing pre-made marks, pactions, color books, and much more.

Personalized tools make you more efficient

Watch the video to see how intuitive it is to create an action list that adds primer and finishing separations to your artwork files. Learn more about our prepress automation tools by contacting us or at packz.com.

Packzimizer – sheet and ganging imposition for maximum press uptime and substrate coverage

Packzimizer serves the label printing industries’ evolution towards digital print. Packzimizer is available in all of our software products and is integrable with your MIS/ERP solution for an efficient workflow. The module conducts nesting according to your needs: based on existing die-cuts as well as free nesting. Lastly, collect and nest several quantity dependant SKU’s, and create a print-ready PDF file with finishing marks that support either traditional or laser cutting.

Watch our video on Packzimizer

Inverted separations for digital print embellishment

Watch one of the PACKZ and STEPZ solutions to invert primer and embellishment inks in-line finishing equipment of your digital press. Be efficient and automate the entire process using CLOUDFLOW, Packzflow and Pactions.

Create Custom Pages in Minutes

Take advantage of the templates in Pagebuilder to create pages in minutes, for your job management pages or kiosk forms. Watch the video to learn just how!

Color Coding of Proofscope Notes 

Organize approval rounds to be more manageable, by defining the note color based on user profiles. Watch the video to learn more!

Export Proofscope Notes to PDF

Notes can now be edited after saving, as well as exported conveniently to PDF. The offline storage of approvals provides you with extra flexibility and to help work around security constraints when needed.

Grace Period for Approval Revokes

Have you ever had a customer send approval of an artwork file, only to realize later they still would like something to be changed? CLOUDFLOW users and their customers can now enjoy an approval grace period. Assessments can be undone easily within 24 hours via the web browser without extra phone calls or emailing threads.

Zoom In More Than 3000 % Closer

Get as close as you want to your files with Live Rendering Mode’s Deep Zoom functionality. Improving from 800%, users can now view artwork with 25,000%+ zoom. Even the smallest distances, such as traps, have the correct measurements. The 2-Point click measures across large distances (wider than your screen) and works with scrolling: to reposition simply select the new endpoints.

Updates to the Asset Viewer in CLOUDFLOW

We’re happy to announce recent updates to enhance the experience of our CLOUDFLOW users. To save our customers’ time searching for files, we’ve improved the workflow to include a simple search for files based on approval state, tags and file/folder type, plus an advanced search using AND/OR operators. Additionally, users can now duplicate files, shift-click to do multiple operations in a single go, and enjoy the comfortable drag and drop functionality. To make the most of the plug-in suite, files can be opened directly in PACKZ or revealed in Finder or Explorer.

Sick of poorly managing jobs, revisions, and approvals?

Workspace is the asset management you have been yearning for! Workspace has tons of smart automations and tricks up its sleeve to transform your asset management into an enjoyable experience. Available in our browser-based CLOUDFLOW software. Learn more at cloudflow.hybridsoftware.com

Are you familiar with Proofscope’s live rendering mode?
Proofscope is a browser-based HTML 5 viewer that gives you access to deeper insights of your files. How does it work? Preview different separations by simply turning them on or off for inspection. The Live Rendering mode also gives the opportunity to preview PDF layers.

Proofscope has some great built-in tools for quality control like the barcode recognition and the measurement tool. Look how in the deep zoom mode you are even able to see the smallest detail.

Last but not least, the compare functionality gives you clear visual support to quickly spot differences between two versions of a file.

HYBRID Software’s Packzimizer in PACKZ, Stepz, and CLOUDFLOW uses intelligent algorithms to gang labels or packaging designs based on quantity and outputs print ready impositions for roll- and sheet-fed digital printing. Packzimizer also helps in providing concise and predictable cost estimation, and supports production planning.

Workspace, from CLOUDFLOW, provides the organisation of your files you’ve been looking for. Find the documents that you need quickly and intelligently (and from anywhere!) with the intuitive Asset Management tools and desktop integration. Watch the time-saving benefits in the video below.

When unnecessary steps are removed or production time is expedited, businesses can enjoy the benefits of increased efficiency. Pactions, a functionality offered with PACKZ and Stepz, automates the process of making digital proofs, as shown in this video for folding carton artwork. Watch how Pactions automatically removes ink from the glue flaps, and PACKZ connects with our customers’ ERP and MIS systems to apply the order information panel for you. Finally, Pactions splits the finishing separations over multiple pages.

What the label and packaging industry needs is a universal way to bring variable data printing to a variety of digital presses. PACKZ, Stepz, and CLOUDFLOW bring an agnostic VDP solution built around PDF. Let HYBRID Software inspire you on how we can drastically improve the levels of productivity and business efficiency so that more quality work can be done in a shorter period of time. Watch the movie and contact us for more information for a solution specific to your needs.

HYBRID Software is delighted to announce that HYBRID Software Intelligent Flexo, a breakthrough module in HYBRID CLOUDFLOW to boost flexo print quality from existing equipment and software systems, has successfully received a 2021 FTA Technical Innovation Award. For more than two decades, FTA has recognized and celebrated the incredible achievements made by individuals and companies, large and small, which have contributed to the growth of the industry. This is the second straight year HYBRID Software has received an FTA Technical Innovation Award. Last year, it won the award for CLOUDFLOW Patchplanner.

One of the most important determinants of high quality printing is producing high quality plates as easily and effectively as possible. For a flexo printer, there are two points to consider. First, are the flexo plates, and the platemaking equipment that makes them, optimized to produce the highest possible print quality? And second, whether those plates are made in-house or by a trade shop, are they produced using a repeatable manufacturing process so print quality will be consistent for every job?

The input to Intelligent Flexo is simply a set of screened color separations. These can come from HYBRID’s own CLOUDFLOW workflow or from any third-party RIP that can generate unencrypted TIFF or LEN files. It optimizes flexo print quality using existing equipment and software as the starting point. It identifies problem areas—looking for different zones in the artwork that warrant intervention—and then applies specific techniques to generate effects that will improve print quality. Its technology mimics “digital dot etching”, helping to disrupt ink viscosity to provide smoother gradations, more uniform solids, and overall better reproduction of graphic images and fine details.

HYBRID Software Intelligent Flexo operates as a configurable, automated workflow process module. For example, with surface screening, Intelligent Flexo will improve ink transfer and boost density repeatably and consistently. It does this while varying many parameters, such as custom patterning, cell wall size, and skipping small dots with enough intelligence to keep micro-dots solid on finished plates.

HYBRID Intelligent Flexo identifies different zones in the artwork that warrant inspection and, in these zones, applies specific editing to generate cleaner effects. The intention of these effects is to help overcome issues that are inherent with the flexo process.

Users can create their own customized area coverage patterns for Intelligent Flexo, so that it is truly unique for each printer. The significance is not only the screening options HYBRID Software offers but, more important, the freedom to experiment with any screening desired. Thus, it allows every trade shop or printer to add their own specially-developed technologies to the screens available—uniquely differentiating themselves from competitors with their own customized platemaking.

Because Intelligent Flexo works in a non-proprietary fashion, it fits into any plate processing environment with different print setups—from inks to substrates to resolutions to plates to anilox rolls, etc. It is compatible with all major flexo plate imagers, with noticeable quality improvements for images and graphics at any resolution. In an automatic, intelligent way, Intelligent Flexo improves the quality and stability of flexo printing, without a considerable investment—or change of prepress workflow or equipment.

The Intelligent Flexo technology is based on a collaborative effort between HYBRID Software and Steurs, a flexo repro house. The company, founded in 1949, is one of the leading repro houses in the Benelux. Their objective was to create a flexo plate that delivers higher quality and more stability, as well as color consistency for the printing of flexible packages and corrugated boxes. Steurs, a respected innovator, has its own R&D department where they develop innovative solutions to answer to the needs of their brand owners and printing companies.

“HYBRID Software is honored and grateful to receive another FTA Technical Innovation award in the Prepress – Graphics category, this year,” remarks Guido Van der Schueren, Chairman of HYBRID Software. “Every flexo trade shop and printer works every day to maximize their print quality, but making the highest quality flexo plates has always been the realm of highly skilled craftsmen. By working with demanding partners like Steurs and SGK, Mavigrafica, and Tadam, HYBRID Software has been able to distill that craft into software, creating a repeatable manufacturing process that is truly intelligent. And in keeping with our open systems philosophy, we built a solution that would work with any flexo workflow, not just our own. We believe that everyone should have the freedom to install any system that offers true quality or productivity benefits—and the power to implement their own technological nuances to differentiate themselves from others. That’s the underlying potential of Intelligent Flexo.”

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Download press release

Auto Detect bleed on incoming artwork files with Pactions
Are you wondering if HYBRID Software solutions can detect if incoming artwork contains bleed? Sure we can! Find the answer in the video below. To watch our previous videos highlighting automatic bleed generation for labels and folding carton, click here. 

Move fast in a digitalized press room with HYBRID Software. Use Pactions technology in PACKZ to automate the creation of bleed on labels or folding carton. Simply record and gang tasks, set your individual parameters, playback on the design and check the result using the inspection tools. Gain the valuable advantage of speed with Pactions!

Autobleed for labels

Autobleed for folding carton

CLOUDFLOW is ready for lift-off in Linux operating systems with maximum efficiency.

CLOUDFLOW 21.02 runs on Linux
Next to macOS and Windows, HYBRID has adopted a third platform, Linux, to release CLOUDFLOW on. The Linux operating system is highly efficient, both on a performance level, but also on cost. Supporting for Linux is especially targeted at high-performance and Data Center deployments. CLOUDFLOW runs on Ubuntu 18.04 and 20.04, and Amazon Linux 1 and 2.

“Many enterprise workloads are moving to the Data Center, and HYBRID wants to be where our customers are”, Nick De Roeck, CTO of HYBRID Software explains. “Linux is quickly becoming the primary choice for public cloud deployment, so with this Linux release we are delivering to our customers. CLOUDFLOW has been running on the UNIX-like macOS for years, so the move to Linux was not that big of a leap. But we are also doing extensive testing and validation on Linux, as we want to deliver the same high-quality and dependable product that customers have learned to expect from us.”

Cost-effective benefits for Linux users
Data Center administrators launching CLOUDFLOW on a Linux operating system will save costs in two predominate ways, as Linux hardware requirements are lower than competitors and buying a Windows license is no longer required. For those deploying CLOUDFLOW on Amazon or other similar services, users will attain even more cost savings with the low hosting fees available.

What was our goal for this initiative?
Linux is a powerful operating system that supports top performance in addition to cost savings. “Deploying CLOUDFLOW on Linux enables a cost-effective way to run the software in an environment that manages to elevate its performance to an even higher level,” shares CLOUDFLOW Team Manager, Jacques De Schepper.

Visit our CLOUDFLOW website or contact us to learn more.

Rotogravure and flexo printing processes have cylinder and plate delivery times that are longer compared to other printing processes. The common cylinder search in CLOUDFLOW can help identify which jobs have cylinders and plate material in common, and cost-efficiently conduct production. The same solution from HYBRID Software can also be repurposed as a quality control tool for any type of printing technique.

HYBRID Software offers scalable tools for digital transformation of corrugated printing.
PACKZ allows easy and efficient file preparation for digital corrugated printing. Follow along in this comprehensive video recorded by PACKZ Product Manager, Pascal Wybo, to  learn about how we are paving the way for maximum performance and quality of your digital corrugated press. Topics include our solution for preflight, color management, and -finally- learning how to automate those repetitive tasks!

Did you know CLOUDFLOW software is compliant with the Ghent Workgroup’s PDF Output Suite 5?

Among other leading printing providers such as Kodak, Canon, Global Graphics and Agfa, HYBRID has published instructions for successful output to ensure the best quality printing is achieved. We are proud to be compliant and ensure the best working environment for our customers! Click here to learn more about Ghent Workgroup and Ghent Workgroup PDF Output Suite 5.

Processing PDF/X4 in Proofscope and CLOUDFLOW RIP

Introduction
PDF/X-4 is created to increase the reliability of PDF output in systems of all vendors by limiting the features that can give problems during output. However, all vendors also have options to optimise certain types of output, and some of these options interfere with correct PDF/X-4 handling. As such, we document here the options you need to use/check in order to have guaranteed correct output of PDF/X4 files in CLOUDFLOW Proofscope and CLOUDFLOW RIP

Configuring CLOUDFLOW Proofscope
PROOFSCOPE renders any PDF/X-4 file correctly without the need of extra configuration. None of the PROOFSCOPE options regarding file rendering influences how PDF/X-4 files are rendered.

Configuring CLOUDFLOW RIP
The default settings in the RIP node renders any PDF/X-4 file correctly. In the section “Color Management > Output Profiles“, make sure that following options are set to their default values:
• Ignore ICC tagged objects should be OFF.
• Preserve black separation should be OFF.

Simplifying PACKZ and Stepz enterprise license management through centralization

What is LICOS?

LICOS, or the License Control System, is a hosted cloud service for licensing the professional PDF editors PACKZ 6.0 and Stepz 6.0. The payable solution is based on its client-server-license model and centralizes the control over the usage of software in enterprise environments.

What are the benefits?

• Global access with web-based control and interface
• Dynamic distribution of software license in enterprise environments
• Addition of temporary licenses for cyclical or seasonal demand
• Easy access for PACKZ and Stepz users, on-site or at home
• Substantial cost saving, no physical hardware investments required
• Built-in failover in the event that LICOS cloud service is down

Contact us for more information on taking control of your licensing!

More than just a new version, Stepz 6 is revolutionised to serve you in your introduction to the HYBRID world.

Upgraded from a pure step and repeat application, Stepz 6 now also allows for native PDF file corrections and prepress.

Our advanced yet intuitive application for digital printing convertors, and label and packaging printer is your one-stop for:

• File corrections
• Prepress
• Step and repeat
• Simply extend for VDP, warping, CAD and more!

Contact us to learn how HYBRID Software can maximize the performance of your digital press at stepz.hybridsoftware.com.

HYBRID Software introduces Digimarc Verifier – integration for CLOUDFLOW! We are so happy that our customers will enjoy increased efficiency in verifying Digimarc codes, and we will save them valuable time and avoid errors.

• Verify Digimarc Barcodes from Anywhere (simply via Web Browser)
• Live Feedback & PDF Reporting
• Automated Workflow Integration
• Batch Processing
• Autonomous Decision Making

Watch the showcase movie here:

Intelligent Flexo – The Reliable and Automated Solution for Flexographic Printing from HYBRID Software

Room for Improvement in Flexo printing

HYBRID Software understands that flexo packaging printers’ needs include innovative software so that they are able to print at the best possible quality — efficiently and quickly tackling increasing orders.

To overcome issues faced in recent years, a popular solution in the market has been to print at 4000 dpi combined with a high definition modulated screening algorithm. While this has solved many problems for flexographic printers, it remains a one-dimensional method and introduces press instability as well as slower platemaking imaging speeds – both of which do not bring the printers further to their goal.

HXM Screening Solution in collaboration with Global Graphics

Unlike other systems, we have designed HXM to work with any output device and flexo plate printer. HXM screening combines the advantages of both AM and FM screening and is therefore able to limit the loss of small, printed structures and detail at high line screen rulings by controlling the dot size in the highlight and shadow.

Harlequin Cross Modulated Screening limits the smallest structure produced to be reliably printed on the target system. Once this point is reached within a given HXM screen, structures are removed completely rather than continuing to be reduced in size to create the required tonal range. Therefore, it does not disappear in the light areas or merge in the dark areas, which improves the print quality with smoother tones, flat tints, and gradient transitions.

Intelligent Screening in HYBRID Software’s CLOUDFLOW

With Intelligent Flexo, the market receives finally the solution they have been needing to complete their orders with less errors and at high-speed. Available in HYBRID’s CLOUDFLOW software, the new functionality intelligently applies screening modifications to post-ripped files. As working in post-RIP data allows for more control, CLOUDFLOW users will now be able to identify problem areas in the images which require intervention, before printing on the press, to save time and valuable resources.

Discover more about CLOUDFLOW at here.