Can Character Verification System checks text on concave end

Typical applications for machine vision systems include counting or presence checking (such as in blister packs), colour comparisons to ensure correct packaging of pharmaceutical tablets and capsules in blister packs, profile measurements, and, probably the most widely used, data capture for data code and lot number verification.

At Leuze Mayser, experts in vision systems have created a facility for checking the legibility of 'best before end of...' (BBE) dates marked on metal cans. This has become a crucial requirement, since parties receiving canned food items for retail or wholesale purposes may reject a whole pallet or even a complete consignment if, on spot inspection, just one unreadable date is found.

One of the more challenging applications in the drinks industry is where BBE dates are marked on the concave base. This required Leuze Mayser to create a special lighting arrangement to enable the inspection camera to focus clearly on the date stamp despite a varying depth of field.

This Can Character Verification System automates visual inspection through quality lens and proven software technology. It gives food and drink processors the confidence that all canned foods and drinks leave their premises having passed quality checks for readability of the BBE date and other essential data, thereby ensuring full traceability.