ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE 17 PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 05/25 www.petpla.net ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE 17 process control. Digital twins go even one step further: they depict real production lines virtually and deliver structured data on the complete machinery utilisation. Furthermore, they offer the possibility to save machine data and information in a structured and machinereadable format over the complete lifecycle. Digital twins are said to also comply with the requirements of the Digital Product Passport (DPP), which was introduced with the EU’s Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) entering into force in July 2024. These virtual twins of real manufacturing plants accelerate development cycles and ease maintenance strategies. Optical quality control & AI-assisted sorting In the field of quality assurance camera systems and AI-based image processing support manufacturing processes. They detect shape deviations, surface defects or material impurities during production and ensure consistent quality levels. These technologies allow early defect detection thereby reducing rejects and ensuring a more efficient use of resources. In the wake of stricter environmental regulations and rising customer expectations the fitness of plastics for circularity is also moving centrestage. AI-assisted sorting systems with near-IR sensors (NIR) identify different plastic types, separate high-quality recyclates from impurities and improve the recycling quality. This increases reuse rates and contributes to compliance with regulatory requirements. What’s more, digital systems are closely linked with the DPP, which features comprehensive information about the used raw materials, production processes and recycling paths. These technologies support companies in establishing closed material cycles, reducing environmental burdens and complying with the ESPR. Challenges and skilled labour shortage Despite numerous flagship projects, progress is stalling in many companies, especially SMEs, due to a lack of investment. Another obstacle is the shortage of skilled staff. Those wanting to introduce automation, AI and IoT technologies require specialists for data analysis and IT security. This staff and skills shortage occasionally slows down implementation even though technical solutions already exist. AR (Augmented Reality) goggles can provide relief here by displaying maintenance instructions or training content right in the staff’s field of vision. This accelerates maintenance and onboarding processes without always having external experts on site. Summary & outlook Digitalisation proves to be a catalyst for a more sustainable and efficient plastics industry. Connected production systems make for real-time optimisation thereby reducing rejects rates and buffering market fluctuations more confidently. At the same time, new business models can be developed – in the form of digital platforms and maintenance services. www.k-online.com www.sacmi.com Product design Product development Product validation Industrial production plant Process & quality control On-site and start-up assistance After-sales and Customer service SACMI 4.0 THE COMPLETE CLOSURE, PREFORM AND CONTAINER SOLUTION FOR YOUR SMART FACTORY E N D L E S S I N N O V A T I O N S I N C E 1 9 1 9
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