Product handling
An inspection system can only work reliably if every product arrives in front of the camera at exactly the right moment, in exactly the right position. That sounds straightforward, but at speeds of hundreds to more than a thousand products per minute, it is anything but. Product handling and automation are the invisible force behind our inspection systems. They ensure every product is presented at the right moment and in the right position, so that a reliable image can be captured.
This is one of our three core competencies, alongside imaging and image analysis. It is also one of the reasons we do everything under one roof: if the handling is not right, the inspection is not right. We control that interdependency as a single whole.
What we do
We design and build the handling and automation solutions that sit inside our inspection systems. That covers the complete journey: from feeding and positioning products to sorting and discharging them after inspection. This is always tailored to the specific product, the required speed and the client’s production environment.
What our solutions consist of
Robotics and mechanics
Handling, positioning, rotating and transporting products with the precision required for reliable inspection. From pick-and-place to continuous high-speed transport.
Control systems
PLCs and control software form the brain of every system. They coordinate the handling, inspection and sorting, and ensure everything runs in sync.
Sensors and actuators
The eyes and hands of the system. Sensors measure position, speed, presence and provide feedback to the controller. Actuators carry out the physical actions. Together they enable real-time adjustment.
Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs)
The interface between the operator and the system. Via touchscreens and displays your team can monitor the process, set parameters and receive alerts. User-friendly, because a system only works well when the operator understands it.
Software and communication
Software platforms such as SCADA and MES provide data analysis, process optimisation and integration with other systems in your organisation. This is the nervous system that connects everything.
Why combine handling and inspection under one roof?
With many providers, handling is a separate component sourced from elsewhere. Not with us. We design the handling as an integral part of the inspection system. This means one team overseeing the entire solution, one partner taking responsibility for the end result, and no hassle dealing with interfaces between suppliers.
For our customers, this makes a real difference. It saves time throughout the project, prevents coordination issues, and provides the assurance that the system as a whole performs exactly as it should.”
Determining the right system together
Every production environment places different demands on handling and automation. We work closely with your engineers to determine exactly what is needed: which products are processed, what speeds are achieved and under what conditions. From there we design a solution that integrates seamlessly into your line, whether that is an existing production environment or a completely new one.
Support and training
We train your team on the specific handling and automation components of your system. From operation and settings to maintenance and troubleshooting. Our worldwide support is available for technical questions and system maintenance, so your production line keeps running.
A handling challenge?
Want to know what handling and automation in your inspection system could look like? Or do you have an existing line where inspection needs to be added? Get in touch. We are happy to explore the possibilities together.