Jones certified as Thinfilm’s first ‘Preferred Converter’ for integration of NFC tags with paperboard pharma packaging
By Canadian Packaging staff
Automation General Coding & Labeling Controls/Drives Jones Packaging Inc. NFC OpenSense technology NFC tags pharmceutical safety Preferred Converter certification Thin Film Electronics ASA ThinfilmJones is the first folding carton converter in the world to receive Preferred Converter certification for the application of Thinfilm NFC tags to paperboard pharmaceutical packaging for over-the-counter and prescription products.
LONDON, ONT.—Jones Packaging Inc., a world-class provider of premier packaging solutions for healthcare and consumer brands, is the first folding carton converter in the world to receive Preferred Converter certification for the application of Thin Film Electronics ASA (“Thinfilm”) NFC (near field communication) tags to paperboard pharmaceutical packaging for over-the-counter and prescription products.
In attaining Preferred Converter status, Jones completed a comprehensive evaluation program, during which it demonstrated its ability to establish and automate key production processes, as well as consistently meet designated standards related to carton design, tag application, process control, in-line testing/discrimination, product quality, data management, transfer/security, training and support.
In January 2016, Jones and Thinfilm announced plans to integrate Thinfilm’s NFC OpenSense technology into paperboard pharma packaging and establish key manufacturing processes for production on Jones’ high-speed lines.
This past August, the partners published a video that visually demonstrates the full automated process, including setup of the carton, application of the tag, reading of the NFC chip, recording of key data, and ejection of compromised packages. The video can be viewed here:
Jones and Thinfilm are engaging leading global pharmaceutical companies to integrate Thinfilm’s NFC technology with product packaging and deliver the solution to market. The ongoing collaboration between the partners will also include the future integration of ferrite shields with the OpenSense tags, which will enable the NFC technology to function on metalized packaging such as blisters commonly used for cold/flu medication and filled in the Jones Contract Packaging Services facility.
NFC OpenSense tags are thin, flexible labels that can detect both a product’s “factory sealed” and “opened” states and wirelessly communicate contextual content with the tap of an NFC-enabled smartphone. The tags contain unique identifiers that make it possible for pharmaceutical companies to authenticate products and track them to the individual-item level using powerful software and analytics tools. In addition, the tags remain active even after a product’s factory seal has been broken, empowering brands and healthcare staff to extend the dialogue with consumers and patients.
Thinfilm’s “Tag Talks First” protocol is a key feature of the NFC OpenSense tag and enables a read-speed that is up to 20 times faster than conventional NFC solutions. This makes it an ideal technology for use within the high-speed, high-volume production lines found in Jones’ manufacturing facilities.
About Jones Packaging Inc.
Jones is a world-class provider of premier packaging solutions for healthcare and consumer brands. The firm’s full-service and integrated offering includes graphic and CAD design, print, conversion and filling of multiple packaging components including folding cartons, labels, inserts, blister packs, flexible packaging, and vials. More than a century of design and manufacturing expertise has uniquely positioned Jones to observe and participate in the evolution of packaging’s role as a result of important shifts in consumer dynamics. The company’s culture of innovation and commitment to staying a step ahead has resulted in a vast service offering that simplifies the process for customers while maximizing their brand’s value and ensuring consumer well-being. For more information, visit www.jonespackaging.com.
About Thin Film Electronics ASA
Thinfilm is a leader in printed electronics and NFC smart packaging solutions. The first to commercialize printed, rewritable memory, the Company today creates printed tags, labels and systems that include memory, sensing, display, and wireless communication—all at a cost-per-function unmatched by conventional electronic technologies. Thinfilm’s roadmap integrates technology from a strong and growing ecosystem of partners to bring intelligence to everyday items and effectively extend the traditional boundaries of the Internet of Things.
Thin Film Electronics ASA (“Thinfilm”) is a publicly listed Norwegian company with headquarters in Oslo, Norway; product development and production in Linköping, Sweden; product development, production, and business development in San Jose, California, U.S.; and sales offices in the U.S., Hong Kong, and Singapore. For more information, visit www.thinfilm.no.
Advertisement
