Jeff Toepfer, an RIT graduate and newly instated Imageworx president, has been the technical development lead for MOA labeling since 2017. He states, “Our motion effect designs are engineered through custom-built, pattern-generating algorithms, so many of the available effects have not yet been seen or fully understood by interested customers.”
He observes, “Visual effects can be difficult to describe without seeing for yourself. The process begins with graphic development, based on customer needs and requirements. It is followed by offering several examples of the effect capabilities in combination with the supplied graphics.”
According to Toepfer, “The graphics approval process has various levels of proofing options available, depending on the needs of the client. Video simulations show the desired 3D or micro motion optical effects in combination with customer supplied or designed artwork, along with a layout proof for approval.”
He maintains, “The video simulation process shows the customer a real-time simulation of their product as a black-and-white composite, while the layout approval shows the press layout with a 2D effect simulation in full color. Once approved, the order follows one of two paths: press proofing or full-on print production. On special occasions, sample proofs can be mocked up for customers without even going to press.”
Printer Partners
Press proofing is done within the Imageworx facility co-located with the MPS demo and special applications center on an MPS EF 430 UV flexographic press. Once approved, the product is either printed there, or sent offsite to preferred certified print partner Banknote Corporation of America (BCA), a division of CCL Industries.
At BCA, MOA labeling techniques are exposed to supplemental high-end security functions, such as: holography, variable data, taggant, high refractive index coatings, invisible 3D imagery that is decoded by specified wavelengths and many more unique customization options.
Toepfer reports, “Typical flexographic label embellishments are also available, such as: cold foil, rotary screen, and cast and cure. He adds, “Partnership and collaboration have been the backbone of this process since its inception. The technical superiority exhibited by BCA in regards to high-level security printing, along with our internal advanced design techniques, makes for the perfect alignment of technology capabilities appropriate for the fast-moving security labeling market. The ability to conjoin multiple security functions creates an ideal scenario for anti-counterfeit labeling.”
“Specially developed UV inks, coatings and adhesives, developed by MOA partner Cyngient, give products the finishing touch required to be printed successfully, whether the product requires sharp print detail at the finest imaging capabilities, or UV coatings and adhesives designated for high-bcm anilox rolls,” Toepfer states.
Fit & Function
Toepfer cautions, “When evaluating the technologies available in today’s security printing market, the buyer must determine what is most important for their brand’s presence.”
Determining factors should include both overt and covert functionality. Most importantly, the level of difficulty involved when attempting to counterfeit the product should be highly considered. MOA labeling may in fact be the ideal solution applicable to either general brand authentication or intricate technologies that deflect from counterfeiting.
About the Author: Imageworx is a Levittown, PA-based prepress house. Sample label kits demonstrating MOA technologies can be requested by email.