All Global Graphics companies have worked together for the first time to co-develop a smart DFE for labels and packaging applications to transform the role of the digital press in the smart print factory of the future.
Global Graphics Software, Hybrid Software, Meteor Inkjet and Xitron have all collaborated on the SmartDFE, designed to be part of a fully automated manufacturing solution supporting Industry 4.0 telematics and MIS integration, plus connectivity with automated manufacturing lines via OPC UA.
It brings together in one solution the creation of optimised print-ready PDF files; workflow and job automation to connect with enterprise IT systems; Ripping; screening; optimised image quality; and, via Harlequin Direct, it drives the print data directly to the printheads through Meteor software and electronics, or through Xitron’s Navigator DFE platform.
It meets the need for fully variable data, gives complete control of the print workflow, and provides valuable information for QA and inspection, press maintenance, and stock control.
Mike Rottenborn, Global Graphics Group CEO, said: “Digital printing presses are getting smarter all the time, and innovation is especially strong in the labels and packaging segment. These presses need a ‘smart’ digital front end to take their place in today's smart print factories, and this is challenging for many OEM developers of digital packaging presses. Global Graphics has developed SmartDFE to simplify the integration of the DFE and the digital press and reduce time to market for our OEM customers.”
Eric Worrall, VP of products and services at Global Graphics Software, added: “SmartDFE provides a complete single source software and electronics stack that does everything from job creation through to printheads. Our Artemis Print Operator AI builds print knowledge into the software to keep the workflow running at maximum speed and quality. We have also joined the OPC Foundation, the organisation responsible for the development and maintenance of the OPC Industrial Interoperability Standard, so our SmartDFE can connect print to the smart factory.”