What is Industry 4.0?

We are entering a new era of work.

Industry 4.0, or the fourth industrial revolution, signifies the ongoing evolution of traditional manufacturing driven by the latest Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) technology. This revolution aims to enhance automation, foster improved machine-to-machine (M2M) communication, and provide advanced monitoring and diagnostics. Consequently, these processes will diminish costly downtime, errors, and the necessity for human intervention.

This interconnected approach will revolutionise the efficiency and operational performance of coding and marking processes. The integration of IIoT technology and cloud-connected systems will facilitate automated manufacturing operations, error-free coding, late-stage customisation, and improved Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE). It marks a significant shift.

But what does Industry 4.0 mean practically for busy engineers and production managers in fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sectors such as food and beverage or pharmaceuticals? Let’s explore the concrete cost-saving advantages that a connected site could bring to your coding and marking operations.

How Does This Impact Manufacturers in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) Sector?

In fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sectors characterized by relentless throughput, the consequences of unforeseen downtime, unexpected stoppages, and maintenance expenses are pivotal to the business. Efficient operations are an absolute imperative. This is where Industry 4.0 is poised to bring about a revolutionary change, offering a degree of simplicity and insight that can lead to significant improvements in efficiency, productivity, and Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), all while diminishing downtime and Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).

Let’s delve into the specific advantages your operations can gain.

Remote Management and Coding Automation

In a linked coding and marking system, coding can achieve true automation. You gain the ability to manage your printers from a distance, inputting code data directly from a connected database, and overseeing changeovers from your ERP or MES system. This results in the smooth application of codes to packaging as an integral component of an intelligent and interconnected factory operation.

Preventive Measures for Fault Prevention

When your coding and marking machines are linked to the cloud, maintaining optimal performance no longer necessitates the physical presence of an engineer. Remote diagnostics enable off-site service teams to identify and rectify minor faults before they escalate into major issues causing downtime.

Collect Vital OEE Data for Continuous Line Efficiency

Industry 4.0 provides 24/7 access to web-based performance metrics for every printer in your network. This extends beyond just monitoring printer status; you can track metrics such as service history, uptime and downtime, throughput, and consumables levels.

You can focus on an individual printer or gain a comprehensive view of your entire printer fleet, spanning all production facilities and regions within your group. The ability to consolidate global performance data on a single screen can profoundly impact your business, facilitating informed production and procurement decisions based on real-world data.

“Cloud computing makes operational data and information highly accessible, facilitating the collection of big data. That creates a platform for breakthroughs in proactive service and advanced service solutions.” – Paul Clarke, Inkjet Product Director, Domino

Be Prepared

Due to its substantial positive influence on efficiency, those who embrace Industry 4.0 technology early on can gain a considerable competitive edge. In just a few years, incorporating Industry 4.0 technology will be essential to meet production goals and avoid falling behind.