INDUSTRIA 4.0 THE ROLE OF THE INDUSTRIAL PRINTER

The Industrial Revolution 4.0 is all about revolutionizing production through smarter, faster, and more efficient processes that are powered by digital technology. With the help of cutting-edge technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT), big data analysis, and machine-to-machine connectivity, businesses can optimize their operations like never before. And in this exciting journey, coding and marking are playing a crucial role in increasing equipment and production efficiency.

What is Industry 4.0?

Industry 4.0 represents a new era of production, defined by the seamless integration of cyber-physical systems, the Internet of Things, and cloud computing into industrial processes. This integration creates a highly interconnected and automated system, where machines and systems can communicate with each other with ease, and production processes can be monitored and controlled remotely, with minimal human intervention.

Smart factories have emerged as a result of this integration, where machines operate with greater autonomy and independence. They are able to gather data through sensors, analyze it, and offer recommendations based on the information collected. By utilizing this data, companies can make informed decisions in real-time and improve production processes to minimize waste and enhance efficiency.

By analyzing data and implementing predictive maintenance, manufacturers can proactively identify potential issues before they arise, resulting in reduced downtime and improved overall efficiency in the production process.

To put it simply, Industry 4.0 brings together the physical and digital realms to enhance production in terms of flexibility and effectiveness. By embracing automation and connectivity, this shift has the power to:

• revolutionize the way goods and services are produced
• providing more value
• reducing waste and environmental impacts.

ZANASI industrial production printers can be classified as “Assets functional to the technological and digital transformation of companies according to the ‘Industry 4.0’ model.”

The industrial inkjet printer plays a key role in the information coding process, which facilitates the seamless tracking of products and packaging throughout the supply chain. With the integration of interconnection modules and advanced interfaces, the printer evolves into an intelligent and connected device, offering new advantages:

• The printer can be managed by CNC (Computer Numerical Control) and/or PLC (Programmable Logic Controller), which automate its operation. This capability enables high-precision operations to be performed repetitively, minimizing the risk of errors and optimizing the entire production process.
• Real-time monitoring of printing operations enhances efficiency and reduces waste.
• The printer is capable of anticipating the need for routine maintenance or replacement of certain parts, providing preventive warnings. This capability helps decrease downtime and increase overall process productivity.
• The printer can be integrated with other devices and systems to share data and information, leading to significant enhancements in visibility and control over the entire production process.

In conclusion, advanced and interconnected industrial inkjet printers play a crucial role in enhancing operational efficiency and supply chain management. These systems provide a strong basis for putting Industry 4.0 principles into action.

To meet the requirements of Industry 4.0, ZANASI has equipped its industrial inkjet printers with multiple connections that can be activated and extended according to the different devices on the production line.

The advanced connectivity features and software capabilities of ZANASI systems facilitate interaction with devices on the production line or internal management and control systems, to:

• simplify integration and data exchange
• cut costs related to the implementation of innovative tools.

INTEGRATED COMMUNICATION
ZANASI printers are capable of detecting and retrieving data from other devices online. These systems integrate with the factory’s logistics system and/or other devices, are configured to communicate with the user’s information system, allowing for the collection and storage of production data.
Remote connection is possible through serial interfaces or Ethernet network with TCP/IP protocol, enabling remote diagnostics, facilitating management and monitoring of operations even outside the production site.

PROCESS AUTOMATION
The printers are equipped with sensors for monitoring the operating status and a user-friendly software interface. Interactive functions simplify communication between technology and operator, enabling immediate learning and a significant reduction in errors. The print format can be set directly from the printer’s control panel or from a remote PC/ERP system connected to the printer.
The reduction of repetitive functions and ease of use lower training costs and free up the need for external support.