Robert Bosch Packaging Technology GmbH

Grouping folding boxes or bags
The case packer Elematic 3001 packs products into full wrap-around, into a tray or into two-part shelf-ready display cases. Different pack styles can be grouped, such as folding cartons, flow wraps, stand-up pouches, doy packs, cans or tablets. Standardized assembly groups enable different infeed scenarios for various pack styles. Series technology allows for quick and easy setup, and replaces the need for customized developments of special solutions. Customers benefit from proven technology and fast throughout times.

Ergonomic design and easy operation
The Elematic 3001 case packer is characterized by its ergonomic design with a low blank magazine. The granulate for the hot melt system can be safely refilled from the outside and the machinery has an open and easy-access framework, allowing for good visibility of packaging processes and increasing ease of use.
The Elematic 3001 case packer with the new modular collation platform will be presented for the first time at FachPack 2016. Visit Stand 337 in Hall 3A to experience the system first hand.

Bosch expands CPS portfolio for the serialization of pharmaceutical packaging
Equipped for regulatory requirements worldwide

• Quick format changes thanks to user-friendly design
• Intelligent connection of machine and software
• Reliable serialization and application of safety seals

Bosch Packaging Technology, a leading supplier of process and packaging technology, has expanded its portfolio for the serialization of pharmaceutical packaging. In the fight against counterfeit drugs, many countries are about to implement legislation changes for a stricter labelling of pharmaceuticals. Consequently, drug manufacturers require safer and more flexible solutions. “With our serialization concept, we offer customers more than just a machine,” explains Daniel Sanwald, product manager at Bosch Packaging Technology. “Bosch offers the complete package, which also includes the corresponding IT.”

Connection of machine and software
The CPS (Carton Printing System) forms the basis of all serialization solutions from Bosch. It has been continuously developed regarding flexibility and user-friendliness. Depending on customer requirements, the system prints 1D or 2D data matrix codes on up to 400 folding cartons per minute. Thanks to an upgrade of the camera system, both codes can now be checked on different carton qualities even more reliably. If the contrast and readability of the data matrix codes do not conform with the required level of quality, the products are automatically sorted out. The machine is easy to operate from the front, so that mechanical components are easily and quickly accessible in case of format changes. An optimized threading of the labelling tape reduces downtime of the CPS 1900 to a minimum.

The CPS systems can be connected to both machine software and company IT in a multi-level process, ensuring that serial numbers are attributed reliably. Therefore, Bosch Packaging Technology has adapted the proven automation technology from Bosch’s automotive sector to the specific requirements of the pharmaceutical industry. “This experience enables us to offer our customers IT solutions that not only process the entire order management; they also control both import and export of the serial numbers,” Daniel Sanwald explains. Depending on country and guideline, the numbers are either allocated centrally or generated by the company. Contract manufacturers in turn receive the numbers from their clients. According to Sanwald, “our IT system is equipped for all three cases. The Bosch machines can also be flexibly combined with systems from other IT providers.” The IT concept has further advantages for production companies: production parameters and data of all packaging lines are clearly visible at all times. “For instance, in the case of unforeseen events like downtime or modification, capacities are automatically re-planned,” Sanwald says. “The connection of our machines with the corresponding IT offers companies a new production foresight.”

Modular design for additional safety
Thanks to its modular design, the CPS system can be extended by further modules. For example, a weighing module inspects the weight of each folding carton individually. Existing machines can also be equipped with a Tamper Evident module. The labeller applies additional safety seals across the side flap of the folding carton, thus offering optimum protection against manipulation. Sensor systems carry out safe and reproducible checks of seal presence and correct application. The machine and all applications, such as the camera, are operated via a single HMI (Human Machine Interface). “The operator has a uniform look and feel, and does not need to switch between different HMIs. Moreover, this makes the central audit trail a lot easier,” Sanwald underlines.

Growing global need for serialization
According to the Bosch experts, the need for serialization technology will continue to grow over the coming years. Amongst others, 2015 will see the implementation of new guidelines in Saudi Arabia, where drug packaging must be equipped with a data matrix code step by step, followed by serial numbers in 2016. In Brazil, individual batches must be serialized as of 2015, before it becomes obligatory the following year. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) aspires to implement a standardized identification for all prescription drugs in form of a 2D data matrix code in a step-by-step approach until the end of 2023. The European Union’s Falsified Medicines Directive 2011/62/EU stipulates coded packaging with a 2D data matrix code and a unique serial number for nearly all prescription drugs, presumably from the first quarter of 2018. With the flexible serialization solutions from Bosch, pharmaceutical manufacturers are well-equipped for all regulatory requirements worldwide.

Great offer for environmentally conscious consumers
Compared to conventional paper, Axello®ZAP is substantially more durable, while retaining its natural paper characteristics and advantages from source to recycling. The sustainable characteristics of the material increase its appeal to eco-conscious consumers. With the Axello®ZAP paper, BillerudKorsnäs has developed a new, better packaging material which reliably withstands the stronger mechanical requirements in processing. “The combination of the strength, flexibility and stiffness of Axello®ZAP paper fits perfectly with Bosch’s technology,” said Ole Paulussen, sales director at BillerudKorsnäs.

Revolution in the dry food market
The solution meets the growing demand for sustainable packaging for dry foods such as sugar, flour, grains and powders. Moreover, the machine is user-friendly and allows versatile packaging styles, including pillow, gusseted and block bottom bags with gable or flat top closure. “We are positive that our solution, supported by several years of development, not only addresses today’s challenges for our customers but also gives them the possibility to enter completely new markets and areas of application using sustainable packaging,” said Marcus Velezmoro, sales responsible for the VFFS ZAP portfolio at Bosch Packaging Technology.