Ferag Adds fold n' stitch to StreamFold, Introduces Navigator Control Interface

Ferag has added fold n' stitch to the StreamFold quarterfolder it introduced a year ago and the Navigator post-press control interface this week at the IFRA Expo in Hamburg.

Since its debut, StreamFold has been used by sites across northern Europe to attract semicommercial jobs. With the fold n' stitch component, Ferag extends the quarterfold process by adding saddle stitching.

The mobile quarterfolding and stitching component can be shifted between UTR delivery stations, and can therefore be connected inline to several folder deliveries. The 'fold n' stitch' line can also be fed in stand-alone mode, independent of a press run, via the JetFeeder hopper.

In another configuration, products coming off a press can be wound using MultiDisc ,and then processed in offline mode to create stitched, quarterfold products, allowing printing and folding/stitching to operate independently and at optimum output.

Combined with JobFolio machines distributed by WRH Marketing — JobTrim rotary three-side trimmer and JobStack 90 compensating stacker — the new fold n' stitch capability can expanded into a complete finishing line for producing high-value semi-commercial work.

To simplify process preparation and monitoring, Ferag's Navigator relies on flying frame technology and a Multi Touch screen to present a flat menu hierarchy that leads interactively to desired set-up and control functions. Navigator's standard applications are NaviSet (data preparation), NaviRun (production control) and NaviQ (reporting). Its fourth module, NaviSafe, contains back-up function and enables remote support via a secure VPN link.

All applications open in floating windows, and are active with the relevant information on a single level. All functions - line configuration, insert allocation, operating mode, assignment to stackers, etc. - are directed by finger-tip drag-and-drop. Navigator alternatively supports mouse and keyboard operation.

Four upgrade options to Navigator can be adapted to individual needs. The PressLink interface compares press and post-press production data, enabling control of different editions down to one copy, leading to newsprint savings. With DriverLink, after registering using a badge system, drivers receive information via monitor at production start-up about routes and loading-dock numbers. At production's end, driver documents are printed automatically. Totalizer monitoring gives an overview of the status of production and output on each line. A counter at all key positions in the Ferag system displays the number of copies produced. Notifier keeps operating personnel and technicians informed at all times about the operational status of all system components.