Informative event to provide overview and demonstrations of latest advancements and possibilities in digital workflow
Muller Martini, the global leader in print finishing solutions, will unveil its newly developed JDF controller/editor at a JDF user group meeting presented by Printing Industries of America/Graphic Arts Technical Foundation (PIA/GATF).  The meeting will be held March 24-25, 2008 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

“Muller Martini is proud to be on the forefront of digital workflow, helping to dramatically change the way bindery departments are managed and run,” said Peter Doyle, Corporate Integration and Workflow Manager for Muller Martini.  “Through the use of JDF and our new controller/editor, operations can take greater advantage of the benefits of digital workflow...performing set-ups remotely, minimizing delays and rework, reducing wait time, and basically eliminating many of the frustrations they’ve experienced on their production floors.”

Muller Martini customers who have machines equipped with AMRYS (Automatic Make-Ready System), and even those who don’t, should plan on attending what should be a very enlightening PIA/GATF JDF user group meeting.  Among the highlights of the event will be demonstrations of how quickly, easily and cost efficiently a JDF file can be generated and utilized to automate machine set-up as well as to enhance the functionality of data transfer throughout an operation.

JDF (Job Definition Format) functions in an open architecture environment and is designed to optimize automated workflow – unifying the flow of data between various pieces of equipment while also bridging the communication gap between MIS and production services.  JDF is XML based, enabling maximized interoperability between cross-platforms and readily-available interaction with Internet systems. 

The Job Definition Format is defined by the CIP4 organization (the International Cooperation of the Integration of Process in Prepress, Press and Postpress).  Muller Martini is a CIP4 founding member and has been extensively involved in the creation and refining of JDF technology. 

CIP4 describes the components of digital workflow as agents, controllers, devices, and machines.  Yet, until now the controller element of the equation has been lacking.  Muller Martini’s new JDF controller/editor can be compared in some ways to a “traffic cop” that routes both JDF and JMF (Job Messaging Format) digital files, providing the ability to automate the set-up of an AMRYS machine and also to share information among many machines – even those from different manufacturers.  

During the event in Pittsburgh, the make-ready of a Muller Martini AMRYS-equipped PrimaPlus saddle stitcher will be demonstrated live.  Utilizing the new Muller controller/editor, a JDF file will be exported to the PrimaPlus stitcher, allowing the machine to be readied for production electronically, literally in moments, with minimal human intervention. 

“Besides the actual process improvements that go with the automated setting-up of a machine, attendees to the PIA/GATF JDF user group meeting will learn more about the many other diverse ways digital workflow strategies can increase R.O.I.,” continued Mr. Doyle.  “Among the advantages that our new controller/editor, and JDF technology in general, can bring to their businesses are more accurate data collection, the ability to view the performance and status of their machines from anywhere in the plant or through the Internet, and the ability to complete changeovers much faster with considerably less labor expense...all of which translates to greater productivity and the potential for substantially higher profits.”

Muller Martini’s new JDF controller/editor can be linked, via a link module, to an AMRYS-equipped machine of any vintage.  The controller/editor will also provide a graphic depiction of workflow through the use of 3-D images.  Studies have shown that 3-D diagrams can assist users in comprehending and remembering information up to 40% better – avoiding confusion and reducing costly mistakes on a busy production floor.

Printing Industries of America/Graphic Arts Technical Foundation formed the JDF User Group through a partnership with CIP4.  The first PIA/GATF User Group meeting will begin at 2 p.m. on March 24, 2008 and will commence with a hands-on look at JDF implementations.  Day two of the meeting, March 25, will consist of panel discussions, case studies and an opportunity for attendees to network with peers. The event will be held at the Pittsburgh, PA headquarters of PIA/GATF.