Antares Vision Group combines multiple inspections in one machine 

Antares Vision Group will demonstrate its ALL-IN-ONE system at PACK EXPO International in Chicago, combining multiple quality control steps into one machine.  

The system brings several inspection functions together, including leak detection, X-ray inspection, checkweighing, label and code inspection, seal inspection, and serialization. Antares can configure the system around the product and application, offering manufacturers a way to consolidate inspection without adding more standalone equipment to the line.  

“The ALL-IN-ONE system represents a new approach to in-line quality control,” said Bill Holmes, president of Applied Vision and FT System North America, both Antares Vision Group companies. “Rather than being a standard combination machine, it is a modular solution designed around the characteristics of the product and the critical quality parameters that need to be monitored.” 

The version displayed at PACK EXPO will combine micro-leak detection, X-ray inspection, and checkweighing. The ALL-IN-ONE system is part of Antares Vision Group’s broader approach to connect inspection, traceability, and production data.  

“Based on the customer’s quality requirements, different inspection technologies can be integrated into the same machine, creating a truly customized inspection solution,” said Holmes.  

In Chicago, the company will also demonstrate artificial intelligence (AI)-based label inspection and a modular system for cap and fill-level inspection.  

AI builds a 3D view for label inspection  

Antares will also demonstrate AI-based label inspection with its IE4000 PLUS. The system inspects cylindrical containers such as glass and plastic bottles and cans. It uses four cameras to capture images around the container before the software reconstructs a 3D model.  

Label images are mapped onto the model and virtually unrolled to account for distortion caused by curved surfaces.  

“By leveraging advanced AI algorithms, the system can automatically recognize the shape of the container and reconstruct a digital 3D model onto which the label images are mapped and analyzed,” said Holmes. 

The system checks label presence, position, and integrity and can read codes using optical character recognition. It also verifies alignment between labels and embossed features on the container.  

Holmes said AI can also simplify setup and format changeovers, reducing operator intervention.  

For non-cylindrical containers, Antares recently added the IE6000 PLUS.  

Connecting inspection data to traceability 

Antares has continued expanding its DIAMIND software platform, which Packaging OEM previously covered for its real-time supply chain traceability capabilities. The broader ecosystem now connects inspection, traceability, and production data.  

Inspection machines and track-and-trace systems collect quality and serialization data on the production line. Holmes explained that DIAMIND can bring that information together at the plant and enterprise levels.  

“By combining traceability with inspection systems, manufacturers can achieve complete product control,” he said.  

Products can also receive a unique digital identity using QR codes, DataMatrix codes, radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, or near-field communication. That identity can follow the product through the supply chain while inspection data verifies quality on the line.  

Holmes said the goal is to make the information generated by both machines and products more useful across operations. “DIAMIND transforms data generated by machines and products into actionable insights,” he said. 

Modular cap and fill-level inspection  

The company will also display its IT+CL 700-IoT system for cap and fill-level inspection. The cap inspection unit can use up to five cameras to identify closure problems. Fill levels can be inspected using X-ray, infrared, or high-frequency technology, depending on the application.  

“Its modular architecture allows it to adapt easily to multiple packaging formats and materials while maintaining high performance across both standard and more complex applications,” said Holmes. “It is capable of handling special closure types and customized caps.” 

Antares Vision Group will demonstrate these systems at booth S-4051 at PACK EXPO International, October 18-21 at McCormick Place in Chicago.