How can quality in web processing be increased, work processes simplified for users and reporting made even more meaningful? BST GmbH provides the answer to this cross-industry question with SMARTData. The central data management solution with open interfaces enables the integration of different weg guiding and quality assurance systems and thus supports cross-process data exchange - for a holistically optimized printing process from job setup to endproduct.
The possible complexity of the control and analysis processes is unique in the industry. At drupa 2024, BST will be presenting the innovative functions of the smart tool, such as error classification with SMARTData Review and the new Track & Trace solution, which can be used to track printing errors with high precision.
SMARTData solves the challenges in the printing process from two sides. On the one hand, thanks to SMARTData, job data no longer has to be entered manually for each system, but can be fed centrally from the ERP, MIS or prepress system into the individual systems. This means considerably less work and time for users. At the same time, the susceptibility to errors and thus waste is massively reduced. On the other hand, the great strength of SMARTData lies in the processing of data during the printing process. "The tool is not only able to store data locally in the system, but also to synchronize it in a database with a state-of-the-art RESTful API across multiple processes in the form of a digital twin," explains Nikolaus Netzel, Product Manager at BST. "The supplied process data and quality reports are therefore far more accurate and provide an optimal basis for precisely controlling and removing printing errors and avoiding them in the future." Equipped with a SMARTData interface, an unlimited number of BST systems, such as the regi_star 20 register controller, the FRAMEGuide and COMPACTGuide web guiding systems or the iPQ-Check 100% inspection system, can be integrated. It is also possible to integrate systems from other suppliers.
Workflow 2.0: Data Lake, Review and Track & Trace for high-quality print results
The Processing Kit from SMARTData can be easily integrated into existing IT infrastructures and offers users numerous functions for long-term process optimization. A Data Lake is a technical prerequisite for implementation. The Review function enables a clear view and classification of all printing errors and can be conveniently used with any browser and also on mobile devices. Users can quickly and easily sort and remove errors according to relevance and create reports. Another feature of SMARTData is Track & Trace: a unique QR code is applied as a print mark on the edge of the print, which enables errors to be located and controlled even more precisely. The SMARTData starter kit with Data Lake and Review will be officially launched at drupa 2024 and can be optionally expanded with Track & Trace. The smart software will be supplemented by the Converting Control feature, which is expected to be available from early 2025. "Thanks to state-of-the-art technology, intuitive usability and platform-neutral interoperability, SMARTData is already enabling a 2nd generation workflow that covers the entire value chain from job preparation to the final printing unit and thus provides manufacturers with real added value," says Netzel.
SMARTData subscription: attractive price advantages and included special services
Users receive even more benefits with the attractive SMARTData subscription model: from a contract term of more than two years, users benefit from attractive price advantages, lower overall investment costs and software costs that can be planned for the long term. Regular security updates and new features are also included in the subscription. In addition, users receive professional software support for the entire duration of the subscription.
