Rising requirements for packaging machines

Machines can increasingly be regarded and flexibly deployed as individual units. This enables a speedy response to trading activities and coverage of a broad product range by a single machine. Moreover, retooling and format changes can be carried out.

Flexibility can be maximised to such an extent that even batch sizes of 1 are possible. This means that a very individual approach to the customer can be adopted, whereby the customer becomes directly involved in product development. The high degree of flexibility also enables faster adaptation to the needs of the market and increasing rates of innovation. A reduction of stocks - the key idea here being "Make-to-order" - is possible at the same time.

Improved data management is the basis for inter-company networking. All process sequences are simplified due to standardised data structures. Optimised monitoring processes facilitate preventive and corrective maintenance while the entire production control system is also perfected. Servicing for customers is improved due to the use of mobile devices and track & trace options.

The early detection of problems ensures maximum machine availability. Maintenance can be planned and the need to keep fewer replacement parts in stock minimises the amount of tied-up capital. Replacement parts can be ordered easily, delivered quickly, and installed without any learning process. This, in turn, enables greater freedom in machine procurement.

Intuitive concepts make it easier for operators to handle complex technology and it also reduces their susceptibility to make errors. Mobile terminals and open interfaces enable flexible control and access to all a machine's functions, whereas. Internet technologies support diagnostics and also reduce the number of errors in production.

Digital networking can be used as a lever to enhance resource efficiency, whereby the machine adapts itself to the material and not vice versa. In this way, the consumption of material and energy can be optimally adapted and the loss of product and materials can be minimised. On top of all this, intelligently controlled motors enable energy recovery - a not inconsiderable benefit.