12 Jan. Optical inspection technology for flawless pharma glass
An inspection system by Vision & Control is designed to enable the precise detection of even the smallest defects in pharmaceutical glass packaging. With specially matched lenses, adaptive lighting, and validatable image processing, the quality of ampoules, vials, and syringes can be checked in real time under clean-room conditions. The system is designed for automated production lines and meets the regulatory requirements according to GMP and CFR 21 Part 1.
The optical inspection of pharmaceutical glass packaging is considered a critical step in quality control. Even the smallest surface defects can compromise the integrity of sterile drugs. Vision & Control has developed industrial-grade lenses with low distortion and high chromatic correction for these tasks. They are designed to help reproduce the finest structures on transparent and highly reflective surfaces.
Modular lighting technology, including ring lights, dome lights, and coaxial lighting, ensures homogeneous illumination without distracting reflections. Dark field illumination also enables high-contrast visualization of microcracks and spalling, even on cylindrical geometries.
The Vicosys image processing system can operate multiple cameras synchronously. This allows all-round inspections and three-dimensional analyses to be performed in a single process step. The inspection unit is integrated into existing production lines via interfaces such as Profinet or EtherCAT.
The inspection system is based on high-resolution CCD and CMOS cameras with up to twelve megapixels and supports real-time evaluations. The combination of precision optics and customized lighting enables detection accuracy in the submicrometer range. The lighting intensity is adaptively adjusted to the glass thickness, shape, and refractive index in order to minimize misclassifications.
Algorithmic methods for analyzing brightness gradients and texture patterns are used for error detection. If necessary, 3-D evaluations based on triangulation or stripe projection supplement the two-dimensional inspection.
Data processing is performed by modular software that transmits the measured values directly to the production control system. Audit trails and tamper-proof data logs support validation and documentation requirements in accordance with GMP and FDA. The solution is therefore aimed at both manufacturers of pharmaceutical packaging and machine builders who automate production lines for primary packaging.
Thanks to its modular architecture, the system can be adapted to different glass geometries, cycle times, and test specifications – an advantage with changing batches and product variants.
Further information from the manufacturer
Source and image: www.vision-control.com