CI-Vision Launches High-Speed Vision Inspection Technology

Producers of both large and small packaged fresh food products can now benefit from high-speed, high-precision product package and label inspection with CLS Series vision inspection technology from Mettler-Toledo CI-Vision.

The series comprises three machine sizes developed specifically for the fresh food industry to inspect labelling of packs of varying widths and heights for the correct best-before date, lot number and barcode at high throughput rates. With their robust designs optimised for harsh operating conditions, technologies in the CLS Series are ideal for flat-packed fresh food products, ensuring they comply with retailer labelling guidelines and regulations such as the European Union (EU) Directive 2000/13/EC. By tracking each product’s lot number as it passes through the processing line, the technology also guarantees due diligence through traceability throughout the supply chain.

Available in 200mm, 300mm and 400mm widths, the CLS Series offers manufacturers a choice of machines able to inspect fresh food products of different widths and lengths. In addition, cameras automatically adjust position to facilitate set up of each system for examination of products ranging from 10mm to 200mm in height.  This boosts flexibility for fresh food producers, while optimising camera focus and lighting for accurate label verification regardless of pack height.

To enable high-speed processing of inspection data, the CLS Series features Mettler-Toledo CI-Vision’s advanced CIVCore Software. This software enables the CLS Series to analyse high resolution images at a speed of 250 packs per minute (ppm), enabling the inspection of every pack without compromising line productivity. The CIVCore Software offers manufacturers a large memory capacity for the storage of data and images of rejected packs. The CLS Series’ easy-to-use touchscreen displays with intuitive dropdown menus and graphic toolbars allow the systems to be set up quickly for the inspection of a new product, simplifying product changeovers and enhancing flexibility. Conveyor speed adjusts automatically during machine operation to meet the needs of the processing line for enhanced productivity.

Featuring a hygienic open construction with sloping surfaces and tubular framework to minimise physical contamination of fresh food products, the CLS Series can be cleaned more quickly and efficiently than traditional vision inspection systems, enabling manufacturers to maintain high standards of sanitation on the food production line. With a stainless steel cabinet and robust construction, the CLS Series has been built to withstand the cleaning regimes required by fresh food producers, effectively protecting the mechanisms within from water or chemical ingress.

“Fresh food producers are increasingly turning to vision inspection technology to meet the ever more rigorous quality requirements of retailers and consumers for the packaging and labelling of their food products”, said Dr. Richard Reisbig, European Market Manager, Mettler-Toledo CI-Vision. “The CLS Series technology has been designed with the fresh food industry in mind, with attention paid not only to ensuring the systems are robust and easy to clean, but also flexible, enabling manufacturers to respond quickly to changes in market demand”.

Optional reject devices are available with the CLS Series on request. The technology can also be easily connected to checkweighing systems and other product inspection equipment, allowing a single reject device to remove packs identified as substandard by either machine. The CLS 200 will be showcased at the IFFA 2013 tradeshow in Frankfurt, Germany, 4-9 May 2013 in hall 11.1, stand D70A.