Advanced Inspection of Bottles and Labels

Among four new inspection systems from Intravis are two for blow molders that capture defects in bottles and labels. LabelWatcher 360° is new for 100% inspection of self-adhesive labels on randomly oriented bottles. This compact, standalone unit can be integrated into the production line at any point after the labeling machine. It provides full 360-degree inspection and also reads 1D/2D codes. The unit is designed to keep up with even the fastest labelers — up to 10 parts/second.

It’s designed especially for nonoriented products; special features accommodate different rotational positions. A new illumination concept is said to ensure the entire label is uniformly illuminated, so that defects can be reliably detected even at the label edges; and reflections are prevented, avoiding false rejects. A setup wizard enables fast setup of new products by any operator and eliminates the need for time-consuming image collection of different rotational positions.

The system uses six cameras. For oriented objects, one camera can inspect the neck opening for diameter and ovality, and check the sealing surface for nicks and scratches.

Also on display is a redesigned SpotWatcher bottle inspection system with a new, more modular and more aesthetic design. It performs material defect inspection — checking the blank bottle sidewall for dark pinholes, burners and contamination — as well as color inspection (streak detection), contour inspection (flashes, webbing, handle folds) and opening inspection (diameter, ovality and excess material inside the neck).

Cloud storage provides data security. Optional features include long-term image memory and reject-rate monitoring.

Intravis also has new systems for inspecting caps and in-mold labels at NPE2024.