This document presents some of the automation opportunities that may help optimize workflow. Reducing manual input and implementing automatization make the system error-proof and efficient. 

Watch Hot Folders - automatic data upload.

CC Uploader is a software that can watch selected local folders and upload data to ChromaChecker Cloud.

It has an Auto-mount feature that allows reconnecting with another computer in your local network ( e.g., a computer that controls the press and where measurement data are stored.)

The hot folder can be used with any 3-rd party software capable of saving data in CC-supported file format.

CC Capture Export Folder

In CC Capture, it is possible to set Export Folder.

An example of automatization is where the goal is to create a G7 calibration close-loop:

• A test page with CC-84 is used for G7 calibration
• A default curve export format is selected (in this example format accepted by ACH — Alwan Color Hub)
• The export folder is synchronized with ACH - calibration used in the printing process is stored in  CC Capture Export Folder.
• Whenever new calibration is generated next job uses new calibration curves.

Barcodes In CC Capture

There is a lot of function that can be automatized using barcodes:

• Operator's login (enter credentials)
• Set up Print Inspector Scanning Template ( select all parameters including Device/Track selection)
• Select Projects 
• Input variables like Customer ID, Job ID

Xrite iSis Barcodes

Isis has an internal barcode reader. ChromaChecker fully supports them. CC Capture can read it and auto-recognize proper Printer/Substrate settings. It can also use an external barcode solution and assign existing codes as aliases in the CC system.

As ChromaChecher supports multi-color-space control strips, it is possible to mix CMYK, RGB, Lab, and Spot Data on a single chart that might have huge value, especially for Digital Printers. Comparing RGB to CMYK can be used for potential Color Management Issues.

FD-9 QR Codes

On a similar principle, Konica Minolta FD-9 - the instrument with an internal scanner - can read QR-code and which makes it possible to auto-recognize jobs printed on different printers on different substrates. FD-9 works perfectly with CC Uploader. Additionally, this Instrument has an auto-feeder option that can  

RF ID readers for Operator's login

CC Capture can work with the existing system of RF ID cards - the only condition is to find a reader that can work in Virtual Com mode. 

Take advantage of VCS (Virtual Control Strip) technology

Watch the video that shows how you can adopt iO Table to QC task. A similar solution can be realized with Barbieri LFP.

Control Strips with Placeholders

Creating one universal Control Strip with additional spot colors defined as placeholders makes the process much easier. One dynamic Template that the Operator can adapt very fast. All spot colors can be selected from Color Pallete or switched off if unprinted.

Give Operator the ability to redefine Spot Color Definition.

When working with Color Library and Pallete, we can set up the system so the Customer can accept the final spot definition with the press Operator. It is not a common way to work; however, customers still accept prints on press consoles. We may open a possibility to create substitution that Operator can create. He starts with the primary definition of a sample in the Color Library. The system enables us to point not only to Color Library but also Pallete, which has higher priority. So if the sample of the same name is in Pallete - that would be used instead of Color Library.

That solution is very practical - there are many situations where the color selected from the library requires some modification - especially if the substrate is different.