Representative End User Clients
Representative Automation Clients
Representative Software Clients
The Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) market is a key segment for LTTS and they offer innovative automation solutions to OEMs and manufacturers to improve operational efficiency and optimize maintenance. Through their close association and collaboration with customers, LTTS offers end-to-end mechanical engineering and product development support. In the CPG segment, their focus has been on delivering low-cost automation support for packaging lines systems. Using advanced machine vision engineering capabilities, the company designed, developed and deployed packaging inspection solutions for a major American packaging company.
Background and Challenge:
Increase in efficiency and functionality of inspection systems can lead to substantial gains including reduction in total cost of ownership (TOC). LTTS had to design and develop a cost-effective inspection system having a high output rate; one that is capable of processing 160 bags per minute of bags. These bags are then transferred undamaged from the Vertical Form Fill & Seal (VFFS) machine to the case packer. Moreover, an accurate leakage detection had to be incorporated into the system to identify and remove defective packs.
The Solution:
LTTS designed and developed an integrated inspection system to reject defective packs as well as ensure the highest output. Three types of defects were identified in the flexible packs coming from the VFFS machine - empty bags, long tubes, and leaking bags. LTTS deployed proprietary technology for highly accurate and reliable leakage detection. The solution also ensured that inspected bags were transferred to the secondary case packer.
Quantifiable Benefits:
With engineering support from LTTS, the client achieved significant efficiency improvements and equipment effectiveness that resulted in considerable cost control. Following was the outcome of the client’s technical collaboration with LTTS:
-
Design and development of prototype with proof of concept
-
Cost of ownership was optimized to less than $5,000
-
Ensured complete inspection of bags coming out from VFFS
-
Replaced the cost-intensive camera inspection technique
-
Deployed a system capable of detecting leakages through less than 1mm diameter orifice
Smart packaging inspection machines can ensure consistent, reliable and flexible operations. Moreover, machines can be reconfigured to accommodate new requirements such as product variations and new packaging material. It would be advantageous to redesign the machine around the capabilities enabled by automation systems that seamlessly integrate general motion control, sensors, inspection instrumentation, robotics control, and so forth.
Keywords: CPG; Packaging Machines, Inspection, L&T Technology Services, ARC Advisory Group.