NISSEI holds private show showcasing DX injection molding to address labor shortage

NISSEI PLASTIC INDUSTRIAL held its private show, the “NISSEI RED EXHIBITION,” from October 22 to 24 at its headquarters in Sakaki, Nagano, Japan. This time, the event focused on digital transformation (DX) in injection molding, showcasing IoT technologies that support production monitoring and efficiency improvement. 

Growing demand for digital solutions 

64 companies registered for the two-days event, which was held on a pre-registration basis.

It was the first time in two years that NISSEI held a private show at its headquarters. By implementing a reservation-only system for the first two days, all slots were quickly filled, and the event attracted 331 participants from 116 companies over three days. 

The event focused on IoT-based remote monitoring of injection molding machines and energy consumption visualization technologies, under the theme of DX for molding processes. President Hozumi Yoda commented, “The worsening labor shortage has increased the need for digital technologies that support labor reduction. These tools not only improve operational efficiency, but also support the transfer of skills to ensure that Japan’s advanced technical capabilities are sustained.” 

Hozumi Yoda, President & Representative Director, said, “We want to provide tips for improving manufacturing sites.”

In the past, NISSEI’s private shows have primarily highlighted new product capabilities, attracting engineers from the shop floor. This year, however, the event spotlighted technologies aimed at factory-wide optimization, resulting in higher attendance from production management and production engineering teams. “We hope our exhibits provided insight into improving manufacturing sites,” said Yoda. 

The venue was divided into four sections: “NISSEI IoT,” “Molding,” “Maintenance,” and “Setup,” with a total of seven machines. To make the benefits of digitalization more accessible, the company recreated a virtual molding operation simulation within the venue, specifically showcasing how digital technologies improve productivity and energy efficiency. 

Commitment to environmental sustainability 

Data for each batch is recorded on the electronic tags of reusable containers.

The NISSEI IoT area featured the company’s latest injection molding machine, the “NEX-V,” along with the latest controller, “TACT 5.” The upgraded system allows for smoother integration with peripherals such as conveyors and robots. 

The Molding area introduced a technology that attaches electronic tags to reusable containers that transport molded products, allowing data such as part names, quantities and molding conditions to be recorded. These containers can be sent with their data to subsequent processes. Another highlight was a new motor feature equipped with a new machine that recycles regenerative energy, which attracted considerable attention. 

The Maintenance area demonstrated remote maintenance support capabilities, while the Setup area introduced facial recognition technology for operator verification. 

The event also introduced technologies under development for future implementation. One key innovation was the switch from alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC) power supply for molding machines. The switch is designed to eliminate energy losses during conversion. For example, electricity generated by solar power is DC, and must be converted to AC for use in molding machines. “Although challenges remain, we are committed to advancing development for the sake of sustainability as well,” said Yoda enthusiastically.