Hot glue monitor boosts pack efficiency

The deal follows approval of a new project with a worldwide beverage packaging line supplier. Bytronic has expertise as an integrator of machine vision and automation.

ADS is working with Bytronic to streamline production and improve the quality of beverage packaging to enhance shipping integrity and outcomes. Throughout the pandemic, the beverage industry has continued to see sustained increases in demand that necessitates improved packaging processes to keep up with bringing the supply to the market. Tools such as body temperature elevation measurement and metrics that gained widespread use to screen for Covid-19 are now being used in combination with HotSpot, a fully integrated, contactless quality control system designed to test the integrity of the hot glue used in cardboard and paperboard packaging, to achieve the required outcomes and results. 

A Teledyne FLIR thermal imaging camera is used to ‘see’ heat from the glue allows the HotSpot system to check the temperature and application of the seal itself, and then use optical cameras to ensure flaps are folded correctly. 

This new automation capability enables packaging providers to maximise time on the production line and ensure each item produced is structurally sound to prevent stock losses and damage.

The HotSpot helps manufacturers increase their green footprint by allowing them to move away from plastics.

Bytronic Vision Automation founder Dr. John Dunlop, says: “Post-Covid, we're seeing a trend for thermal inspection technology being used in different ways - including production lines and packaging. Thermal inspection is not only for monitoring body temperature, it's now becoming vital for production processes and supply chains. It's allowing facilities to monitor things the human eye can't see to guarantee the reliability, increase efficiency and prevent costly stock losses.”

For more information, visit www.bytronic.com