Press manufacturer MPS has launched the VirtualCoach, new product of the MPS connectivity and performance service offering to enhance the quality and efficiency of printing press performance. It is a real-time innovative operating tool that works within MPSConnect and is available on all new MPS presses. 

As a personalized, data-driven AI instructional and guidance application, VirtualCoach is based on intelligent algorithms that gives the operator awareness on the quality and efficiency of all the activities they are performing on the press. 

More than a training and instructional coach for new and experienced printing press operators, the Virtual Coach uses AI to constantly monitor and respond to processes in real time. This could be related to register settings, machine speed, pressure settings, job preparation, job memory, web tension, service feedback and many more. 

Its AI-driven intelligent algorithms uses the input from printing press functions and combines it with actual operator behavior. Using the combined data, which is updated every 5 seconds, the AI VirtualCoach analyzes and offers real-time solutions and warnings.  

Key Benefits of VirtualCoach include:

• Algorithms in tune with operator behavior that syncs with printing press processes.
• Offers real-time training and guidance based on detected operator skills.
• Allows new and experienced operators to develop skills based with AI guidance.
• Updated every 5 seconds for maximum assistance with continuous personalized feedback.

“VirtualCoach is an innovative module that brings printing press functionality and efficiency into the world of AI for today’s operators,” says Kelvin van den Bunt, MPS Product Manager Connectivity. “Its connectivity and performance services unleash the full potential of IoT MPS machines throughout the world and is a powerful tool for owners and operators to maximize press efficiency. In 2022, MPS customers that participated in our connectivity and performance program achieved 35% less waste, 30% lower changeover times, 35% lower setup times, and 15% higher speeds. We are confident that the data-driven AI VirtualCoach will improve that performance year over year.”