Horizon iCE-LiNK Digital Workflow

Horizon previewed it's exciting new iCE-LiNK digital workflow software along with an iCE Series Three-Side Trimmer and Perfect Binder at the premier Think Smart Factory event, which was held in Kyoto, Japan this past Fall. The launch of this exciting new tool and associated finishing devices was planned for Drupa 2020. With Drupa now moved to a later date, Horizon is continuing to move ahead with the development and introduction of iCE-LiNK to the market.

iCE-LiNK is the evolution of Horizon's pXnet digital workflow system, incorporating what has been learned from pXnet environments and taking advantage of advancements in technology such as 5G and the growing integration IoT (Internet of Things) in our personal and business activities. Horizon was one of the first manufacturers of finishing equipment to utilize JDF to drive set-up of it's already highly automated finishing solutions through the use of pXnet. However, where pXnet is primarily focused on JDF equipment set-up, iCE-LiNK takes advantage of the IoT and is more focused on monitoring the efficiencies of equipment and operation to improve overall efficiencies and stay ahead of potential issues that may cause unnecessary downtime. Of course, automated set-up will also be an option with iCE-LiNK. However, JDF is not required to begin taking advantage of the efficiencies gained through monitoring and analyzing performance data.

iCE-LiNK is a Cloud based subscription service that is scalable to fit current and future needs. The initial investment is quite low as there is no need for a dedicated local database server or software installation. The entry level package, called IoT Basic, will be available to the market in June and in fact, Horizon is planning an attractive launch plan for its release and it will be announced shortly. In the meantime, iCE-LiNK can also be used with most of Horizon's current equipment offerings.

Three levels of the package will be available. The entry level package is IoT Basic which provides the ability to monitor machine performance, production analysis and machine maintenance. The second level of iCE-LiNK will allow for the use of JDF/JMF set-up and reporting and API connection to upstream devices. The third level or" Enterprise" will also provide additional management features, job creation, editing and deleting as well as job and equipment scheduling. Levels two and three which were targeted to be showcased at Drupa will be released to the market in 2021.