▲ AM Labels offers the Zebra Machine Vision Systems range that incudes smart vision sensors, smart cameras, and industrial vision processors This, Rowan says, is where Solimar can help printers. The developer has made significant developments in automation including the templatisation of workflow automation, multi-level proofs/approvals of jobs in its visibility dashboard, PDF optimisation and document re-engineering for imposition and de-imposition. “Most recently, we added JDF job tickets to our JDF/JMF-based communication to automate and improve the usage of JDF-enabled printers, presses, finishing, and other equipment,” Rowan says, adding: “We also create dynamic reports that include details on page counts, colour, paper usage, and more. “These developments ensure that our customers receive the highest quality and most efficient print workflows possible.” Exciting Developments Elsewhere, AM Labels, which provides labelling and barcode solutions, offers automation for companies in these markets. Managing director Tony Mariani says benefits from this include speeding up and simplifying production processes, improving versatility and flexibility, and helping businesses to drive innovation. “There have been several exciting developments when it comes to automation and there are a variety of options available to businesses looking to incorporate automation into their operations,” Mariani explains. “For smaller companies, automation can be daunting, however there are low-cost, easy-to-install solutions that can improve systems for businesses of all sizes. The technology should be embraced as a method of addressing challenges companies are facing while driving innovation and reducing costs.” ◄ Duplo launched its new DC-20K B2 cutting system last year AM Labels’ offering includes hardware and software solutions that can automate businesses’ print operations. Among its products are BarTender Automation and NiceLabel LMS, the latter of which is a cloud-based software that provides the tools to manage, integrate, and automate label printing processes. Businesses with multiple sites can also monitor and record the time and location in which labels have been printed, as well as the user that printed them, improving tracking and compliance. The company also recently added the Epson SCARA T6-B602S robot to its portfolio, which offers a solution to streamline and simplify production lines. “The cost-effective, entry-level robot is ideal for applications including assembly, materials handling, packaging, tray loading, and dispensing, as well as label print and apply and pick-and-place tasks,” Mariani says, adding: “At AM Labels, we Semi-automatic strapping and banding machines from Kit Packaging secure packages ready for shipping, operating 25 cycles per minute 25 82 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk July / August 2023 - Issue 343 MARKET TRENDS / AUTOMATION can also supply a range of end-of-arm tools, also known as robot heads, which can be used to apply labels and move individual or multiple parts. Furthermore, AM Labels offers vision scanning equipment for in-line inspection and factory automation. These solutions include Zebra Machine Vision Systems, a range of intelligent devices including smart vision sensors, smart cameras, and industrial vision processors. “The solutions can be used for a variety of applications including, but not limited to, optical character recognition (OCR), pattern sorting tools (PST), quality inspection, automated guidance, line scanning, and presence detection,” Mariani says. “We are currently exploring further solutions that can help improve processes for our customers and we hope to launch an automatic print and apply solution this year.” Increase Productivity Another manufacturer embracing automation is Duplo. Martyn Train, managing director of Duplo UK, says automation is a process that more industries, including print, are aiming towards. “Whether it’s by necessity or a simple result of progress and innovation, markets, including the printing industry, see plenty of benefits in automating their process,” Train comments. “Industry statistics show that 94% of employees of small- and medium-sized businesses perform preventable tasks. Automation effectively handles these time-consuming tasks, so 66% of small- and medium-sized businesses saw an increase in productivity.” Train goes on to say automation features that contribute to higher productivity and reduced errors can be the reduction of manual touch points. These can include barcode-driven processes, where the machines check the identity and settings of the products and change their settings appropriately.
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