Kodak adds AI to cloud-based workflow

Kodak has expanded its existing relationship with PerfectPattern to boost the AI capabilities of its Prinergy On Demand Workflow.

The two companies have had a partnership since Drupa 2016. Kodak uses PerfectPattern’s sPrint One system as the engine for its Dynamic Print Planning module.

The fresh deal involves Kodak taking a licence to use the source code for sPrint One within Prinergy. This will allow Kodak to integrate it into its latest cloud-based Prinergy On Demand Workflow.

Todd Bigger, vice president of software at Kodak, said the new, tighter  integration would deliver “unmatched” levels of automation.

“This step will enable Prinergy On Demand to utilise innovative AI technology more easily and more directly than ever by providing an integrated platform with Industry 4.0 and automation features unmatched throughout the printing industry,” he stated.

Germany-headquartered PerfectPattern specialises in AI and automation systems for a variety of manufacturing industries.

sPrint One works with conventional and digital printing to do away with “rigid, block-based planning”.

The system creates print plans that can be quickly adapted to changing production parameters such as a the need to switch presses or incorporate an urgent order.

Kodak said the combination of technologies would help printers improve profitability by boosting production efficiency and cutting production and material costs.