Switzerland-based FAG Graphic Systems unveiled its solution to the problem of ensuring braille in pharmaceutical leaflets is free from mistakes.
The BrailleScan system is capable of reading braille, converting it into plain text and comparing it with the leaflet information inputted by the user, guaranteeing the information is accurately communicated to the patient. This process takes 200ms, allowing the user to check five leaflets per second.
A European Directive requires pharmaceutical manufacturers to express the name of the medicine on the packaging in braille and also make leaflets suitable for the blind and partially sighted available on request.
This, in addition to the moral obligation, makes it vital that pharmaceutical companies ensure the accuracy of their information for blind and partially-sighted patients.
Packaging company Stora Enso and printing specialist Xerox have teamed up to deliver a method for cost-effectively printing different data on individual packages. This information could include security codes or personalised instructions based on a patient's medical needs.
This can be done quickly and in short-runs, reducing the time it takes to get a product to market. In addition, the printing technology has the flexibility to quickly adapt packaging in response to changes in regulatory standards.
The digital printing technology also promises to be more 'green' than traditional processes, by negating the need for chemicals that are normally required.
Amcor Flexibles Schuepbach and Wipf AG have taken steps to improve the quality control of their packaging and barrier films by installing a Futec 100 per cent inspection system.
The system actively monitors the film for defects, alerting the user if any are detected. By implementing this system both companies believes they will be better equipped to maintain the high standards which customers expect. Amcor supplies flexible packaging to the pharmaceutical and food industries, while Wipf specialises in foil laminates, bags and pouches.
AVT was at Drupa demonstrating its new technology for ensuring the accuracy of labels and leaflets for pharmaceutical products. AVT claims the PrintVision/Helios II automatic inspection system offers "100 per cent quality assurance for the most demanding applications".
This quality control is increasingly important as more information is introduced to pharmaceutical packaging, for example anti-counterfeiting measures.
In addition, with printing presses operating at higher speeds the technology to monitor quality has to undergo complementary improvements to ensure the standards demanded by patients and regulatory bodies are met.
