Ravenwood VXR end-of-line quality control system

The Ravenwood VXR end-of-line quality control system combines vision, X-ray and seal check technology. These three technologies fall under the operation of just one machine, incorporated into just 1.9 m.

The compact and high-tech arrangement provides an all-inclusive process for the seamless production of sleeving, contaminate detection and sealing of trays. Users will benefit from fully automating their production lines, alleviating the need for manual checks.

The key functionality of the VXR system, when combining the three technologies, is to identify and reject food trays that are seen to contain errors. Ravenwood’s VXR will solve these issues with ‘Sapphire’ carbon nanotube field-emission technology — an X-ray technology featuring low energy, high speeds and resolution for high performance.

The machine automatically detects faulty labels, printing errors and poor-quality print. It looks at label position, quantity and orientation. All printed information is checked including barcodes, use-by dates and traceability codes. The system also boasts a user-friendly interface for rugged factory environments.

The VXR is programmed with heightened sensitivity for detecting dense mass and contaminates. It identifies foreign bodies such as glass, metal and ceramics, including all types of bones. Products are cast aside and placed in the removable reject bin.

All seals are checked for contaminates, ensuring trays and food packages are properly sealed. The system also examines for the correct position of the food and number of products within the tray — for example, the number of meatballs — and also that foods haven’t ‘slipped’, potentially obstruct the seal.