Serial code verification on the body of non-oriented vertical products
This advanced vision system is designed to recognize and read serial codes printed on the body of cylindrical containers (such as round-based bottles, tubes, etc.) regardless of their orientation. It stores the codes for the subsequent traceability phases, ensuring continuous data flow across all production, distribution, and quality control stages.
When the serial code is applied to non-oriented containers, the system must be able to detect it no matter its position upon entering the machine.
To solve the complexity of random positioning, the system uses six side-mounted cameras that capture the entire surface of the container. This ensures complete and accurate serial code detection, regardless of its rotation.
The captured identification code is stored in the database and made available for the next phase, i.e. aggregation, where a parent-child relationship is created between individual saleable units and the secondary packaging that contains them (cartons, bundles, etc.).
During packaging, for example, serial codes are automatically transferred to the aggregation module located downstream from the cartoner. Here, a unique aggregation code is generated and applied to the secondary packaging via label or direct marking, allowing instant identification of all included units with a single scan.
The system is compatible with various printing technologies, including laser, inkjet, and UV.
UV printing allows the serial code to remain invisible, preserving packaging aesthetics. In this configuration, a UV-sensitive camera and dedicated lamp ensure reliable reading and verification of codes that are not visible to the human eye.
- Integrity and readability check of codes on vertical containers, regardless of orientation
- Validation of uniqueness and correctness of each serialized code
- Database storage for downstream traceability steps
- Effective inspection without the need for container orientation
- Six side cameras for full coverage and automatic best-angle code acquisition
- No impact on production speed
- Enables aggregation into secondary packaging
- Protects the brand from counterfeiting and unauthorized sales
- Maintains high perceived product quality
- Ensures compliance with food and labeling regulations
- Builds consumer trust and engagement through transparent traceability
- Optimizes product recall processes thanks to accurate data
- Supports sustainability by reducing waste and increasing efficiency
- Provides insights on production line performance and consumer behavior
- Supports shelf-life analysis to improve distribution and product rotation
