Reflecting Bobst’s vision to shape the future of the packaging world, tools connecting with die-cutters sets a new standard for agile box converting. Through the utilization of digitalization and connectivity, converters have the means to become more productive.
TooLink simplifies the change-over by automating the recipe management, which saves time for the operator and removes the risk of human errors.
“In our discussions with customers, we hear that the downtime from one job to another is still taking too long, which is reducing valuable production time,” says Alex Volery, head of the Tooling division at Bobst. “We saw the opportunity to develop a digital and automated solution to help overcome this issue, hence we have developed TooLink.”
A secured data chip is built into the die and creates a unique ID for every tool. When the tool is inserted in the machine, the chip is read, and the production-ready recipe with correct alignment and settings is automatically transferred to the machine. All it takes for the operator is two clicks on the die-cutter’s HMI, allowing a significant saving of change-over time on repetitive jobs, as well as potential operator mistakes when inserting the recipe.
TooLink-prepared tools are manufactured by a Bobst certified die-maker, ensuring that both the quality of the tool and the compatibility with the die-cutter is maximized.
“This is the first phase in our development of the TooLink technology,” continues Alex Volery. “We are hard at work developing future added-value services and solutions related to tooling connectivity. The various stakeholders will be connected, tooling and recipe management will be done remotely, and access to tooling data will leverage insights. These digital solutions will empower better decision-making and deliver increased control, automation, and efficiency.”
All new Bobst 106 format die-cutters are TooLink ready, and in combination with Matic Plus, the saving of repetitive job change-over time is estimated to an average of 15 minutes. It provides converters with valuable additional production time and flexibility.
Bobst is one of the world’s suppliers of substrate processing, printing, and converting equipment and services for the label, flexible packaging, folding carton, and corrugated industries.
Founded in 1890 by Joseph Bobst in Lausanne, Switzerland, Bobst has a presence in more than 50 countries, runs 15 production facilities in 8 countries, and employs more than 5500 people around the world. The firm recorded a consolidated turnover of CHF 1636 million (approximately Rs 13332 crore) for the year ended December 31, 2019.
