Pneumatic Scale servo capping demo runs PackML V 3.0 and Douglas Machine communicates PackML from case packer to PDA, both implemented by ELAU PacDrive™ automation systems. But are user specifications forthcoming?

In a corner of the Grand Concourse at PACK EXPO in Chicago, the OMAC Packaging Workgroup booth was crowded with vendor demos, dominated by Ethernet-based network suppliers vying to become the next standard.

But one demo alone stood out, unique because it was the test stand for a real machine introduced at the show, because it was supplied by an OEM sponsor, and because it represented a commercial implementation of the OMAC Guideline known as PackML.

This demo was provided by Pneumatic Scale Corporation, the capping specialist that has in fact delivered machines with PackML to customers. The 2-axis servo capping unit was the actual test stand for its PacDrive™ equipped SC Servo Capper that was introduced at PACK EXPO.

Across the concourse in the South Hall, another OMAC sponsoring OEM, Douglas Machine, demonstrated the ultimate in simple practicality -- PackML information being transmitted from its new PacDrive™ controlled Invex™ case/tray packer by wireless network to a PDA.

Time has come for real machines, not concepts

Both demonstrations were developed in cooperation with the machines' automation supplier, ELAU. The packaging automation supplier has for years proposed that end users begin specifying commercial implementations of OMAC Guidelines. So instead of participating yet another round of proof-of-concept vendor demos, ELAU opted to highlight examples of its customers' real, commercially available products.

The company in fact did equip the first machine ever sold that implemented all the Guidelines -- a Norden Pac tube filling system purchased by Pharmacia (now Pfizer) back in 2003.

But three years later, the OMAC Packaging Workgroup still anxiously awaits a groundswell of specifications from the packaging community. Where, it may be asked, are all the end users who stand to gain the most from the standards underlying OMAC's Packaging Guidelines?

Granted, the OMAC Packaging Workgroup did succeed in attracting a number of OEM sponsors for its booth. The group also has enjoyed the consistent support of PMMI. And its unsung PackML team deserves serious applause for finishing up Version 3.0.