MPS, a provider of flexo and offset press solutions for label and flexible packaging printers, has launched its innovative ‘talk to me’ real-time connectivity platform at Labelexpo Europe 2017 in Brussels, Belgium.

The Netherlands-based also used the event to secure two orders for the hybrid flexo/digital EF SYMJET press.

EF SYMJET combines the company’s EF flexo press with Domino N610i inkjet technology. It is a fully integrated hybrid press that can operate up to 75 m/min in hybrid printing mode.

For the ‘talk to me’ connectivity concept, MPS carried out live demonstrations of it on the EF automated multi-substrate flexo press as well as the hybrid flexo/digital EF SYMJET press developed with Domino.

According to the Dutch firm, ‘talk to me’ is an open communication system between all software and equipment located on the print shop floor. It enables printers and converters the scope to make most of their efficiency in their printing process.

MPS CEO Wim van den Bosch said: “We believe that ‘talk to me’ is the future. Communication is no longer restricted to just people, but also between machines and among humans and machines. ‘talk to me’ is more than just reading information from the MPS press; it also requires interaction from the operator.

“With the increased difficulty in finding and retaining skilled operators, ‘talk to me’ automates the process as much as possible, to guarantee high quality print results and productivity.”

MPS had collaborated with important partners from the industry like CERM, Labeltraxx, Apex, AVT and Esko that were a part of the automation process demonstrated at Labelexpo.

‘Talk to me’ though is an ongoing development initiative which MPS says is open to other partners and their solutions for automation processes.

Another product showcased by MPS at Labelexpo was the fully equipped MPS EF press during the launch of Automation Arena. MPS EF comprises two automated press lines for digital and conventional label production, from job creation through to pre-press, printing, finishing along with invoicing.

Image: MPS’ demonstration at Labelexpo Europe. Photo: courtesy of MPS Systems B.V.