SubscribeThe Cobalt Sentinel line setup and verification system is being shown at PPT Food North 2006 by leading Systems Integrator - Cobalt I.S.
The Cobalt Sentinel introduces a secure pack validation procedure to the setup process - automating the control of outer packaging to contents matching and eliminating the risk of operator error.
Using biometric authentication and authorised access controls, 'use by' dates and labelling data is entered once. The data is passed to coding, labelling, weigh scale and other equipment in line to complete the setup.
Full validation controls and bar code match functions enable outer packaging to be verified against actual contents, detecting mis-packaged products and rogue labels. On detection, these conditions result in system alarms to prompt corrective action by the operator or, in severe circumstances, to prompt line shutdown. This immediate response prevents rejects, rework and quarantine of product.
The Cobalt Sentinel is flexible enough to cope with short run products, variable code position and generic contents labelling.
All system activity is logged to give a full history of setup and labelling activity. Alarm conditions are monitored and the corrective action that is taken is recorded in the system for later review and reporting.
The Cobalt Sentinel also provides an intelligent response mechanism that triggers early warnings of bar code degradation and prompts remedial action before coding failure occurs. Optical Character Recognition features provide verification of inkjet BBE codings, variable text, label placement and legibility.
Capable of operating at the high speeds typically demanded by today's fast production environments, the system reads, grades and records bar codes in real time, and prevents poorly bar coded products from progressing into further packaging operations.
Each bar code reading is date and time recorded as the product leaves the labelling process, so that individual packs are uniquely identified for removal or easy tracing at a later stage.
Operators are given a graphic display of the current and average bar code read quality which the system is receiving, for easy at-a-glance reference. Reliability is then guaranteed by the system's ability to compare these readings against expected or minimum values, and identify early signs of degradation.
The Cobalt Sentinel allows the user to specify the most appropriate response to any read errors which are detected. Based on individual site requirements these may include a safe and controlled shut down of the packaging line, audible and visual alarms, quarantining of affected product or automatic 'error' labelling. System access and settings are controlled by biometrics - adding fingerprint security to all parameters.
Warning messages of impending problems can also be sent to host applications across an Ethernet connection, or to upstream equipment which has a manned control panel, and this allows further preventative action.
A full audit log of product detail and read status is retained as proof of the barcoding quality on exit from labelling station, which can be used to avoid fines incurred on receipt at retailers. This mechanism also records details of any pack with suspect barcoding for future reference.
Cobalt I.S. is the UK's leading specialist provider of auto identification products, and offers a full backup service which includes technical support and training services. The company offers an unrivalled wealth of experience in automated label printing, scanning and application, and can provide a diverse range of both standard and bespoke solutions which are designed to satisfy customers' individual requirements.