The innovative Bourg Preparation Module (BPM) is a modular, scalable sheet preparation unit that empowers print professionals to use their in-line Bourg binders or booklet makers to produce books and booklets with no operator intervention.
The BPM works in-line with select digital printers and presses, as well as off-line, or in dual-mode connected to a Bourg Sheet Feeder (BSF), to create perfect bound or stitched books and booklets.
The unique approach of the BPM creates a more streamlined workflow. Printers can print on large sheets with multi-up imposition, which optimises their click charge. Additionally, the BPM eliminates or reduces many time-consuming processes, such as preparing media in multiple sizes, manually setting up machines, and trimming finished jobs all while minimising human intervention and the risk of human error.
The BPM is exceptionally versatile and easy-to-use. The operator simply loads a single-sized media into the printer/press and completes the process by unloading the finished books or booklets. Everything else is done automatically. Jobs are converted from very large formats of up to 600 mm x 370 mm (23.6 in x 14.6 in), to very small formats down to 139 mm x 120 mm (5.5 in x 4.7 in) in a single pass. The processed sheets can feed directly from the BPM into a downstream C.P. Bourg BB3202 Perfect Binder or BM-e booklet maker.
Offering excellent scalability, a single BPM can be used for 1-up and 2-up jobs, with a second one added for 4-up jobs. The BPM is also modular, as each BPM module can have up to four of the following functions: registration, rotation, creasing, and format changing. Some functions can be repeated for custom applications.
The benefits of the BPM are recognised through the entire production workflow, resulting in an end-product that is more cost-effective to manufacture. Automation reduces the manual workload, while maximising productivity, minimising imaging charges and enabling shorter turnaround times.
The BPM automatically transforms SRA3 input to CD output format, and introduces the potential for significant economies of scale by enabling use of just one paper size for any final book format. With its innovative bleed trimming system the BPM cuts paper top and bottom, symmetrically or asymmetrically, and trim 4-100 mm (0.16-3.94 in) from coated or uncoated sheets, for production of virtually any creative format.
For 2-up jobs with an odd number of sheets, the BPM automatically separates the last sheet and ejects the unneeded half to the trash.
Increased reliability and a full integrity check are achieved with the optional barcode system. For full automation, the BPM fully supports the industry-standard JDF and XML workflows.
‘The capabilities being unveiled with the BPM are an industry game changer,’ said Sacha Paolucci, Commercial Director at C.P. Bourg s.a. ‘With the BPM, printers can gain an added edge in speed, profitability, and simplicity, while ensuring first-rate results – virtually hands-free. This works to create a better end-product and increased customer satisfaction.’
