Serge Morisod, head of IoT Lab at Bobst, said, “Bobst Connect is a one-stop platform that gives printers, converters and tool manufacturers access to our ecosystem of digital solutions utilising our state-of-the-art Internet of Things (IoT) technology. It enables efficient data flow between physical equipment and digital solutions to help rapid, transparent communication throughout the supply chain and optimise the entire production workflow. Perhaps the most exciting thing is that Connect is a permanently evolving platform that will deliver more and more as it grows.”

The platform covers five domains: pre-press, production, optimisation, maintenance and market.

Some of its current offerings include remote monitoring, a production reporting tool designed to quickly access detailed machine production, process and technical data; remote assistance with Augmented Reality (AR) and MyBobst, a personal portal for parts, order tracking, technical information, customer support, special offers and real-time machine data.

“As a first stage, we have established a range of solutions that help the converters to optimise connection and interoperability with other stakeholders in the value chain. New solutions will continue to become available as the platform constantly evolves, enabling our customers to continually adapt to the fast-changing environment. Customers who join us on the Bobst Connect journey will benefit from a deep understanding of the platforms’ microcosm, receive frequent functional updates and be able to influence our agile roadmap for the future with feedback,” said Morisod.

He added, “Bobst Connect will adapt to new operational needs, to the new capabilities of our equipment and evolving customer service needs, so we can maintain best in class solution and services to our customers. It is about building a connected digital environment that optimises the entire production workflow, resulting in greater efficiency, transparency, speed-to-market, rapid decision-making and less waste and mistakes. In a volatile environment, it helps to make our customers future-proof.”

Some of the solutions in the pipeline for Bobst Connect in 2021 include the introduction of recipe management in the pre-press stage for certain machines, and the introduction of equipment monitoring, performance management capabilities and quality control at the production stage. The company also plans to introduce the second generation of its remote assistance AR service in 2021.