Heidelberg develops ‘AI-controlled print shop’

Printing giant Heidelberg is developing what it describes as the ‘AI-controlled print shop of tomorrow’, designed to run shifts autonomously at comparatively low cost.

Since 2004, Heidelberg has invested heavily in digitalisation, data technology and robotics.

David Schmedding, chief technology and sales officer, Heidelberg, said one example of this is its AI-based consulting tool ‘PAT’ has been providing contract printers with ‘easy-to-implement’ recommendations for more efficient workflows since 2021: “The next version of the well-known workflow software is already in the starting blocks with the new AI-based version Prinect Touch Free. The cloud application will decide for itself which printing process (offset or digital) is the most efficient and cost-effective production method and then independently calculate all possible layouts on the print sheet. With these technical prerequisites, the AI-controlled printshop of tomorrow is the next achievable step.”

In addition to digitalised printing presses, Heidelberg also has a contract business with digital services and output-based subscription models where payment is based on the number of sheets printed.

Digital business models can only be realised because the workflow for print shops is fully digitally recorded and mapped.

Since Drupa 2024, Heidelberg has been promoting its ‘total solution provider’ status for print shops, offering modern printing processes with corresponding machines – from toner to inkjet, from offset printing to flexographic printing.

The machines are linked by the Prinect workflow software, which controls all work processes from the print job to the finished print product.

Schmedding said: “Heidelberg is well equipped for the future and is currently benefiting from a high order backlog following the Drupa printing press trade fair.”