A new computer vision system for inspection
From the individual component to the full, capped container, Sacmi provides a complete range of quality control solutions for cap, preform, bottle and labelled container lines. Patented systems and the incorporation of AI algorithms in the software combine high output rates and precise defect detection with a new approach to quality control.
Cap inspection
In short, the ‘ideal’ bottle: an already-full, capped and labelled container that undergoes dedicated checks, from the individual parts (cap and preform) to the completed container. As a leader in cap compression press production technology, focused on cap lightweighting and new tethered standards, Sacmi offers a complete line of vision systems and spark testers that allow high-speed, in-line control of 100% of output. By installing CHS solutions in-line on an injection press (made by any manufacturer) or downstream from an assembly line, the customer can inspect up to 270,000 caps per hour. Thanks to its array of seven cameras, users can perform complete image capture and quality control of both the ‘working’ and visible parts of the cap, internal sections included; each cavity number is read, allowing generation of real-time reports on any defects. The CHS machine can also mount a Spark Tester to identify typical injection defects, such as micro-holes in the gate area.
Particularly noteworthy alongside the development of new standard-compliant ready-to-market solutions for tethered caps is Sacmi’s solution for inspecting caps downstream from the anti-tamper band folding and slitting station. The CVS102 is designed to be fully integrated on new or existing lines (whoever the supplier) and can be configured with 2 or 6 cameras to inspect both the interior and exterior part of the band.
Preform inspection
Moving on from cap to preform, Sacmi integrates on its in-line and off-line PVS inspection range a patented module that applies advanced AI algorithms and a polarised-light illuminator to detect defects in the preform body. Thanks to a broad range designed to meet producers’ specific needs (in-line as an aid in quality control labs or off-line for the high-speed sorting of potentially faulty preform lots), the PVS ‘family’ leads the industry by letting users create a comprehensive set of checks that include, once again, size/weight checks and cavity number readings. The solution can be equipped with colour acquisition and control devices or the automatic centrifugal positioner which enhances efficiency and is quite compact, thus reducing the footprint on existing lines.
Sacmi has sought to bring about a new size changeover system by developing and installing the self-guided Sacmi D.R.I.V.A. (Drive and Recognise through Intelligent Vision Algorithms) system on the ‘off-line’ PVS10L range. The system consists of AI algorithms capable of identifying each type of preform via its basic characteristics (diameter, length and colour) and autonomously performing the relative size changeover and loading the correct inspection recipe. D.R.I.V.A. thus works like a true automatic brain, providing workers with close, precise, reliable support while eliminating any risk of error (e.g. in code copying) during the set-up stage. What’s more, autonomous size switches slash format changeover times from over an hour to just one minute, ensuring maximum sorting line availability.
Label and container inspection
Completing the range of Sacmi control solutions are the LVS (label) and BVS (container) inspection systems. Fully configurable, with up to 12 cameras, the BVS inspects every part of the container – mouth, thread, body, bottom – and has applications throughout the beverage, dairy, pharmaceutical and homecare sectors. Designed to inspect transparent PET bottles or HDPE, LDPE or PS containers, the system is designed to cover the full range of technologies on the market.
All Sacmi computer vision systems feature CVs 2021 64-bit software to maximise usability and interoperability between machines. This also lets users share statistical information on the net via the use of OPC/UA, MODBUS and http protocols, making it easy to transfer production data from the vision system to ERP or MES systems. Sacmi operates worldwide with 80 production, distribution and service companies, ensuring customers can count on reliable assistance and consultancy services before, during and after the sale.
