OMAC Updates the Guidelines for Packaging Automation

Research Triangle Park, NC (14 June 2006) -- The OMAC Packaging Workgroup (OPW) has updated the Guidelines for Packaging Automation to Version 3.1. This version of the guidelines includes the guidelines for PackAL, an application library of common software elements used in packaging machinery applications that was developed by the PackSoft subgroup of the OPW.
The OPW, a working group of OMAC, provides a forum where packagers, machine builders and technology providers from around the world will work together to achieve the benefits of advanced packaging machinery automation. The working group has adopted the "Connect and Pack" logo to signify the workgroup's effort to promote industry standards and guidelines to facilitate plug and play packaging machines.
The OPW has a number of subgroups working on different aspects of the guidelines, including:
•    PackSoft - development of programming guidelines like PackAL
•    PackML - development of a common machine language including a machine state model and PackTags (a tag naming guideline)
•    PackConnect - development of industry network standards required for packaging applications
•    PackLearn - promoting the education needs in packaging automation
•    PackAdvantage - promoting the business benefits of the OPW guidelines
The Guidelines for Packaging Automation is a single document that encompasses the combined work of all of these subgroups. As the subgroups complete work, the guidelines are submitted to the OPW Executive Committee for approval. The executive committee is made up of users, technology providers and machine builders who are elected to the committee by their peer group. The executive committee will authorize periodic updates to the guidelines to incorporate the approved changes.
A number of technology providers and machine builders have adopted the OPW guidelines and are incorporating these guidelines in their products, and a number of users have begun to specify OPW guidelines on the packaging machines they purchase.
For additional information on OPW, or to download a copy of the updated guidelines, go to the OPW website (www.omac.org/packaging).
About ISA
Founded in 1945, ISA (www.isa.org) is a leading, global, nonprofit organization that is setting the standard for automation by helping over 30,000 worldwide members and other professionals solve difficult technical problems, while enhancing their leadership and personal career capabilities. Based in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, ISA develops standards; certifies industry professionals; provides education and training; publishes books and technical articles; and hosts the largest conference and exhibition for automation professionals in the Western Hemisphere. ISA is the founding sponsor of The Automation Federation (www.automationfederation.org).