Machine Vision & Web Inspection
Streamline production and improve print workflows with defect tracking
Q& A with Baldwin Vision Systems business development manager for inspection systems John Cusack
conversion of that data into information or business intelligence.
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rinters and packaging firms are constantly looking to streamline production, improve workflows, make operations more efficient and, ultimately, improve their bottom line. Here, John Cusack discusses current market demands for improving workflow through data-connected solutions, and how the latest Baldwin solution aims to strengthen business’ output and waste through defect tracking.
WHAT CHALLENGES ARE PRINT AND PACKAGING CONVERTERS FACING? 2020 with the outbreak of the COVID- 19 pandemic was challenging for the industry and continues to affect businesses worldwide. However, the past 12 months have also highlighted strengths and weaknesses of production lines and processes, allowing converters to adapt and optimise solutions and workflows. Many printers are looking to streamline production by avoiding high turnover, operating more efficiently and ultimately, improving their bottom line.
HOW CAN TECHNOLOGY SUPPORT THESE OBJECTIVES?
We have seen an increase in conversations around data-connected solutions such as Print 4.0. At their core, these concepts are not just about data capture, but the
As an example, you may have data that a roll has 500 splash defects, but the business intelligence component is turning that raw data into value by delivering a converting strategy where maximum yield can be achieved while meeting brand owner expectations. This conversion of data into intelligence can result in significant process improvements, enabling time and cost efficiencies within the production workflow. When optimising workflows, defect tracking solutions can stop substandard products getting into the hands of the customer, by identifying them early and reducing waste. This enables better print quality decisions with optimum inspection tolerances for each job, as well as customer satisfaction and retention.
HOW RESPONSIVE IS THE MARKET IN PROVIDING SOLUTIONS TO THESE CONVERSATIONS/CHALLENGES? There are several data-connected inspection systems on the market addressing different user needs. Early uses of inspection systems were lacking in visibility in terms of quality, ultimately, leading to customer dissatisfaction and an increase in refunds.
Converters need a way to eliminate the waste, not just from individual processes like print, but across the converting workflow, as well as gain some insight into how their processes are performing – as using 100% inspection technology is simply not enough. For us, early identification of issues through 100% inspection is just the first step in a bigger solution to provide converters unparalleled access to data-driven intelligence that truly and positively impact the bottom line. We wanted to address the issue head-on and provide a streamlined solution tailored to the demands of the industry.
BALDWIN RECENTLY LAUNCHED ITS OWN DEFECT TRACKING AND INSPECTION SOLUTION. HOW DOES IT DIFFER FROM OTHERS?
The new ‘Defender’ suite of data-connected technologies is our third-generation defect tracking suite, built on 20 years of tracking knowhow to identify, track, and remove print defects. Defender 100% is designed specifically for wide web packaging substrates and sees Defender Data Central and Defender Waste Manager combine to function as a seamless defect detection and tracking solution.
Everyone in the print industry is experiencing tighter margins and managing customer expectations can be tough. Even though you have inspection software, mistakes still materialise, but using a suite of data-connected devices should work to mitigate these risks. The aim is to empower printers to improve their processes and put more work through the press with valuable production data and detailed print quality reports. This also reduces the need for additional presses or press time, allowing you to do more.
WHY DO CUSTOMERS NEED TO ‘DEFEND’ THEIR BUSINESS? Defect detection and tracking protects both converters/printers and the brand owners/ end customers. What would be the cost of losing a customer because the print quality didn’t meet their standards? Or a liability claim against your business because of print defects? Users can be protected from these scenarios by detecting defects early in the process and having the tools to easily remove them, therefore greatly reducing the risk of returns, litigation, lost business, and a damaged reputation.
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baldwinvisionsystems.com
convertermag.com
May 2021
39
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