RAVENWOOD has unveiled anti-reflection and deep learning technologies for its VXR vision pack inspection system. This announcement comes on the heels of the recent integration of a seal contamination detection system.
Both software applications analyse pre-print and linerless labels on packaging. The new anti-reflection technology aims to minimise glare and reflections on flow wrap packs, while deep learning is designed to enhance optical character recognition by accurately decoding diverse font styles, including inkjet dot matrix fonts.
Anti-reflection and deep learning are both adaptable for retrofitting into existing vision systems in the field. For new machine orders, deep learning is included as a standard feature, while anti-reflection is offered as an optional extra.
Ravenwood explained that many meat packers have transitioned from MAP to flow wrap style packaging, driven by advantages including reduced material usage, lighter pack weight, lower energy consumption, extended product shelf life, and improved recyclability.
The high reflectivity of flow wrap presents challenges in capturing reliable pack images with standard imaging methods. To solve this issue, Ravenwood has developed a method for reducing the effect of glare and reflection during the imaging process. Supplied as an optional extra, the process is described as a combination of improved image processing software combined with an enhanced method of illumination. Standard packs can still be inspected as usual.
Ravenwood added that inkjet printers often generate low-quality date codes, and conventional optical recognition software can prove unreliable reading these codes, thus leading to unnecessary pack rejections and contributing to preventable food waste.
Ravenwood is addressing this with deep learning technology powered by HALCON software. The improved optical character recognition can eliminate background images. The software intelligently ignores certain fonts or text below a specific height, such as Julian date codes and line identification codes. It has been integrated into existing Ravenwood VXR machines at multiple customer sites.
