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Solution provider for the carton packaging industry, Impack, has introduced GenieCut, an in-line window patcher designed to redefine carton windowing. GenieCut’s technology boasts enhanced speed, functionality, flexibility and efficiency. Using the GenieCut, packaging producers can offer window patching as a new service to existing customers or can modernise and streamline customers’ current window application processes. One of its “standout features” is its compact design that provides the same functionality as larger competing systems while taking up “virtually no additional floor space”. GenieCut features a specialised glue system capable of feeding at least 60 glue guns. To accelerate customer return on investment, Impack and Baumer offer optional glue gun modules for the GenieCut so that customers can select the smallest module that meets production needs. The glue system comes standard with a user-friendly Baumer touchscreen controller that allows operators to define precise glue patterns. While traditional window patchers have motors that need to “home” before cycling again, the GenieCut design allows it to cycle continuously, so it can cut the film over 15 times a second. With the GenieCut, optimised folder-gluer lines can expect to achieve actual production times of up to 150 metres per minute or 15,000-40,000 boxes per hour depending on blank size. Jeff Shaffer, inventor of GenieCut, said: “Over the years, as a production manager on a folder-gluer line, I saw many ways that the outdated window patching technology could be improved. The GenieCut is a simple, low-maintenance design that promises years of easy operation with less waste and down time.” The technology increases productivity by reducing training time, set up time, cleaning time and maintenance due to its simplified and streamlined mechanism. Impack says that “while standard window patchers can take 3 to 4 hours to set up, the GenieCut usually takes less than 15 minutes to set up when recalling an existing job...While traditional window patchers require fairly frequent blade replacements due to their knife and anvil cutting system, the GenieCut uses a patented stationary knife film cutting system.” Shaffer added: “The GenieCut is the most user-friendly window machine on the market! No prior window machine experience is necessary. With some basic knowledge of any adhesive extrusion system, operators already know how to run this machine.” Dominic Theriault, president and CEO of Impack, commented: “Like all of our products, the GenieCut is designed to improve functionality and productivity of folder-gluer machines and has the potential to help every single one of our customers be more competitive in the global market”.