Label, Date Code and Barcode Inspection System
Systems that check on every product that the label is on the right product, in the right place and printed legibly.
A label and code inspection system uses cameras to check the presence and position of the label and whether it is the right label, and that the date code, lot number, barcode and 2D code are legible and correct. Defective products are removed from the line and every decision is stored with its image.
Wrong labels and unreadable date codes are defects that can lead to recalls and customer complaints in food, pharmaceutical and chemical products. The camera checks not only whether a code was printed, but whether it matches the expected information.
What does it check?
- Label presence, position and skew
- Wrong product label
- Date code and lot number reading (OCR) and verification (OCV)
- Barcode, QR code and DataMatrix reading and content verification
- Faded, missing or shifted print
- Print on caps and packaging
System components
- Industrial camera and lens
- Diffuse or polarised lighting chosen for the label surface
- Trigger sensor
- OCR, OCV and code reading software
- Rejector
- PLC or MES connection to match the expected code
How does it work?
- Step 01
Expected data is defined
The product, label design and the date and lot data to be printed are defined from the product profile or the production order.
- Step 02
The image is captured
The label and code area is imaged while the product is moving.
- Step 03
Reading and comparison
Codes and text are read and compared with the expected data; label position and appearance are checked.
- Step 04
Rejection
Products that do not match or cannot be read are removed from the line.
- Step 05
Records
Read values, results and images are stored and can be used in traceability reports.
Industries
Related solutions
Frequently asked questions
Which codes and print types can be checked?
Printed text and numbers are read with OCR; barcodes and codes such as QR and DataMatrix are read with code reading software. Inkjet, laser and thermal transfer printing can be inspected.
Does it work on curved bottles and cans?
Yes. On curved surfaces the label is imaged with several cameras or while the product is rotated. The setup is chosen for the product’s shape.
Can 2D codes on pharmaceutical packs be checked?
Yes. The camera can check whether the 2D code is readable and whether its content matches the expected data. Reporting serial numbers to national track-and-trace systems is handled by the plant’s own serialisation system.
Are reflections a problem on glossy or clear labels?
Reflections on glossy labels are reduced with diffuse or polarised lighting. The right setup is determined by testing with label samples.
Let’s evaluate your project together
Tell us about your product and inspection needs, and we will work out the right system together.