A major international manufacturer of product ID systems
Customer
A major international manufacturer of product ID systems, offering a range of printing technologies for food, drink, pharmaceutical and packaged goods suppliers.
Application
A new generation of small character inkjet printers, engineered for minimum maintenance and reduced ownership costs, required a standard transit pack, which would protect the high value printer and its kit of parts throughout the global distribution chain.
As a single-trip pack, cost and recyclability were major considerations. The packaged product was required to pass the transit tests specified by the International Safe Transit Association (ISTA).
Solution
A sleeve made from heavy duty corrugated board is mounted on to a tray, which is fixed to a 2-way pallet base. Polyethylene cushioning was calculated to provide a secure seating for the printer, with provisions for the ancillary components, and protection of the curved control panel and display screen to prevent damage. The pack exterior is printed with graphic detail and a supplier logo, reflecting the high quality of the product.
The transit pack was designed alongside the inkjet printer using SolidWorks 3D CAD technology, eliminating the need for an actual product.
Results
- Fast product roll-out as packaging was immediately available through a Solidworks design.
- All parts were securely located in a single pack, simplifying unpacking and installation.
- Superior levels of protection were provided from high performance materials.
- Lightweight pack design helped to minimise freight costs.
- Materials are readily recycled.
The worldwide roll-out of a new inkjet printer is a major event. In such a competitive market-place, reputations are easily lost; the printer has to work straight out of the box, and the timing of its launch is crucial.
The shock absorption, stacking performance and external dimensions of the package were calculated to meet the requirements and minimise overall shipping costs.