From:Packaging News

Laser digital printing firm DataLase has been granted four patents for its Variprint and Infinity technologies.

The technology delivers what it describes as high speed, high resolution, on-demand digital printing that is a high performance alternative to traditional labels and print methods.

Datalase technology is designed to enable brand owners to digitally print products and packaging inline, at full speed, maximising opportunities for late stage mass customisation and personalisation, reducing SKUs and environmental impact and delivering just-in time flexible marketing and enhanced consumer engagement.

DataLase materials can be applied to products and packaging using conventional printing techniques such as flexo, litho and gravure, allowing converters to deliver cost effective digital capability to brand owners with existing machinery and negating requirement for large-scale investment in new assets.

The patented technology relies on an additive which is incorporated into a material or patch applied to a pack; when exposed to near infa-red lasers, it generates a colour change reaction in the pigment.

Mark Naples, Datalase vice president business development Europe and Asia Pacific, said: “The granting of these additional patents demonstrates the level of innovation and capability that the Datalase solution is able to offer to the FMCG sector. Digital print is growing because it offers a significant advantage over traditional print techniques, delivering capability for responsive and timely customised marketing and promotion on pack and product. Our groundbreaking technology is cost effective and efficient, providing a high added-value solution for today’s print market and meets the needs of brand owners, retailers and packaging converters alike.”