Transformation with Smart Solutions in the Press Industry: Innovative Applications

The press sector is undergoing a significant digital transformation process, especially with the advancements in technology in recent years. This transformation includes innovative solutions such as real-time monitoring systems, die protection technologies, and artificial intelligence-supported security measures. In this article, we discuss the digital transformation in companies involved in press and sheet metal forming, along with the key elements of this process.

Preventing Die Damages: Instant Detection of Unwanted Objects in Mass Production
One of the major problems in mass production using presses is the presence of foreign objects falling into the dies. Situations such as a loose fastening element during production, the presence of scrap caught during discharge, or a broken rivet falling into the die can lead to problems ranging from damage to the die to tipping over in extreme scenarios. Repairing a damaged die results in time and production loss, and these repairs can be costly. Innovative die protection systems, through cameras, can instantly detect such situations, stop production, and alert the operator to secure the production process.

Real-time Monitoring of Process Variations Leading to Deep Drawing Errors
Quality defects on the sheet metal are among the most challenging issues in the sheet metal forming sector. Despite the continuous improvement of the competencies of die makers and operators involved in quality control, errors such as tears, undulations, or thinning in sheets can still go unnoticed and reach the end customer. Innovative approaches have been developed to prevent errors before they occur. During sheet metal forming, real-time monitoring with process cameras becomes possible to prevent errors. Digiforming, developed by Yeditek, detects variations in mass production during deep drawing, allowing the identification and prevention of potential errors on the sheet in advance. This enhances quality and line efficiency while reducing costs.

Quality Control with Image Processing Systems at the End of the Line
Digital transformation includes detailed processes such as counting holes, measuring dimensions, and measuring marking depths in parts produced in the press. The use of artificial intelligence in production has gradually found its place. For example, an image system added to the press output can automatically control dimensional accuracy, hole presence, tear control, scratch/dent/dent/pimple errors, and more. Even the depth of a 0.3mm indentation stamped on a part can be controlled with artificial intelligence. AI-supported systems ensure the points that need to be controlled in the produced parts are consistently checked without errors and facilitate the removal of defective parts. These systems also record and report captured errors, thus maintaining a consistently high quality standard in the production process.

Artificial Intelligence-Supported Occupational Safety Measures: Human Detection and Press Shutdown
To enhance safety for workers in press lines or within the press itself, artificial intelligence-supported occupational safety measures come into play. For instance, systems that ensure a press cannot move in any way when an operator is inside, especially for manual presses, have been implemented. Applications that completely halt the line when a human is detected in press lines or robotic cells are becoming more widespread. Artificial intelligence-supported systems capable of preventing crane and forklift accidents are also being developed. Companies aspiring to minimize workplace accidents and prioritize employee safety increasingly demand such artificial intelligence-supported occupational safety systems.

Smart Approaches with AI in Monitoring Workforce Productivity
Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies also offer intelligent approaches to increase workforce productivity. Systems are being developed to monitor field personnel using cameras, perform real-time analysis on images, detect and report operator performance in manual processes, and support optimizing business processes.

Industrial digital transformation is changing not only production processes but also safety standards and workforce productivity from top to bottom. Discovering the potential these technological advancements offer to businesses looking to gain a competitive advantage in the industry plays a critical role in setting future standards. Contact us to learn more about implementing similar solutions in your field.