Exclusive Video highlights of Interpack 2008
If you couldn’t make it to the recent Interpack 2008 trade fair in Dusseldorf, Germany, hailed as the largest packaging machinery expo in the world, the links below to three video newsletters created by Packaging World magazine and Schneider Electric's packaging specialists ELAU will guide you through a virtual tour of what you missed.

As an introduction, the halls of Interpack held no shortage of innovative machines.  One major trend observed was the proliferation of automation, servo machines and quite noticeably the spread of robotics.  Over 240 machines were equipped with our ELAU servo-based automation system, with many of these taking advantage of our robotics capabilities and intelligent servo modules as well.

Other trends observed at Interpack 2008 include:

• Many new package developments in the areas of cartons, display-ready cases, beverage shrink sleeving, wrapping of complex shapes, high end product wrapping and the flexible can.

• A greater use of motorized, pushbutton, tool-less changeovers which can be implemented in a matter of minutes.

• Automation is helping simplify maintenance and allowing plants to take full ownership of equipment despite the use of sophisticated technologies.

• The increased adoption of purpose-built packaging robotic machines rather than third party robots for high speed picking, packing and orienting of products and primary packs.

• Greater integration of the product assembly process into packaging.

For more information and a visual snapshot of the show, check out the three newsletters featuring machine solutions showcased at the event or contact your Schneider Electric or ELAU packaging automation specialist.

> Newsletter 1 featuring: OPTIMA scores sustainability hit with soft cans

> Newsletter 2 featuring: Oystar A+F: the ultimate tray packing robot?

> Newsletter 3 featuring: Paal's newest case packer makes size changes, service easy