The industry is experiencing rapid change — with growing demand for small print runs, tighter delivery schedules, rising material and energy costs, and a shrinking labour pool. By embracing the Smart Factory concept, Komori aims to revolutionise not only the efficiency of individual machines but the productivity of entire printing plants.
Komori Corporation has announced the completion of the third renewal of the Komori Graphic Technology Centre (KGC) at its Tsukuba Plant in Japan. The state-of-the-art facility has been transformed into a fully operational Virtual Smart Factory, setting a new standard for the future of print production.
The newly revamped KGC Smart Factory showcases Komori’s commitment to delivering ‘Kando’, by contributing to society with print technology. This forward-thinking facility serves as a research, development, demonstration, and education hub, offering real-world insights into the possibilities of smart printing operations.
At the heart of the KGC Smart Factory is a central control room that oversees and monitors all printing processes in real-time. Using Komori’s Manufacturing Execution System (MES), factory managers can track every stage of production — from scheduling and prepress to postpress and in-house logistics — on multiple large displays, enabling precise and efficient control of operations.
Incorporating the concept of Connected Automation, the KGC Smart Factory links every step of the print workflow through seamless automation. This integration encompasses both offset and digital printing, colour management, quality inspections and more, creating an interconnected ecosystem that maximises efficiency and output.
The KGC Smart Factory not only focuses on the technological aspects of automation but also integrates human expertise to maximise value. By blending skilled operators with autonomous systems, Komori is setting the stage for the next generation of highly productive print facilities. The facility also includes expanded educational opportunities, with KGC Printing College offering a broader curriculum on smart factory construction and operation.
Through this renewal, the KGC Smart Factory aims to become an open innovation hub where Komori collaborates with partner companies across Europe and beyond to push the boundaries of what’s possible in print production.
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