Komori Corporation and Screen Graphic and Precision Solutions Co. have completed development of a new integrated workflow solution, which according to the companies, enhances automation in all processes from prepress to printing and through to postpress. The solution combines Komori’s KP-Connect Pro (formerly K-Station 4) printing task control software, and Equios 5.0, the latest version of Screen GP’s universal workflow platform.
Komori and Screen GP have already installed the workflow at printing company Mizukami Insatsu Co., and are currently performing verification tests. The workflow is being used at the Mizukami Insatsu site to improve automation along a hybrid printing process that includes a PlateRite plate recorder, Lithrone G sheet-fed offset press and Impremia IS29 29 inch sheet-fed UV inkjet digital printing system. These systems will also be linked to postpress devices via JDF, creating a workflow that supports comprehensive integrated control from prepress right through to postpress.
Komori’s KP-Connect Pro is positioned between the MIS and production site, where it brings transparency to complex process information and allows all operators to share the latest production details. With its direct link to Komori’s production equipment, the software is able to automatically set work instructions and collect precise information on operating results. While it can be run from iPads or other tablet devices, its schedule creation/transmission and result collection functions enable sophisticated real-time control of all production devices.
Screen GP drew on its technical knowledge of prepress and printing processes and combined this with its expertise in cutting-edge inkjet technologies to create a technology that offers high-speed processing using the latest RIP core, color management linked to paper information and imposition functions that integrate Screen’s full prepress knowhow, allowing it to function as a control center for a wide range of print devices.
Katsuya Kawai, president of Mizukami Insatsu Co., said, “One of the prime goals we are promoting is the creation of a design for a smart factory by 2025. All devices, peripherals and processes will be connected using IoT concepts, enabling dramatically improved transparency of real-time operations. A single operator will control multiple systems, part-time employees, AI and robotics. Our vision is to create a smart factory that uses next-generation printing logistics to achieve a truly new dimension of productivity.The verification project currently being performed with Komori and Screen GP is basically the first step toward realizing this vision. I am looking forward to even greater cooperation between printing companies and equipment manufacturers as we move forward. This will enable us to develop the optimal type of facilities we require for the future.”
EijiKajita, director and operating officer and general manager, corporate planning office, Komori Corporation, said,“I firmly believe the next-generation integrated workflow solution formed by Equios and KP-Connect Pro will help to significantly improve the optimization and performance of prepress and press operations, and in fact the entire printing process. We are currently performing verification tests of this workflow at Mizukami Insatsu, a highly progressive company that operates print lines including combined offset and digital systems.”
Tsuneo Baba, president of Screen Graphic and Precision Solutions Co., added,“The integrated workflow has created a comprehensive solution platform that will help to address a wide range of printing needs. With its installation at Mizukami Insatsu, the workflow is expected to make a major contribution to automation along the entire printing process.”
