New Inspection Systems for Caps at K 2022

At the recent K 2022 show in Düsseldorf, Intravis GmbH of Germany (U.S. office in Norcross, Ga.) introduced several new developments for inspecting caps, including the new tethered types. For the latter, Intravis presented an update to the CapWatcher Q-Line, which is tailored specifically to address the challenges of inspecting tethered caps, especially as the caps become thinner and thinner. What’s new is the way the closures are separated during inspection. In place of the previous star wheel used to separate the caps from above, a positive, form-fit lateral star wheel is said to ensure perfect separateion and positioning of caps, even at the highest speeds, while still handling them gently. New software avoids the need to align the caps, which simplifies the separation process.

The CapWatcher Q-Line shown at K was equipped with the new cloud-based version of the IntraVisualizer software for quality trend detection and analysis (available for all Intravis inspection systems). The cloud-based solution means that users do not have to maintain their own IT infrastructure to use IntraVisualizer; Intravis applies updates automatically. Customers also gain the flexibility to connect as many systems as they like, without capacity limits. And, the cloud solution allows display of all information on mobile devices.

Also new is the CapWatcher FC, which introduces a new inspection technology that uses index markings to inspect the angular position of the cap after application. With the help of five side cameras, the system detects whether the closure is screwed on in the target position or is screwed on too tight or not tight enough. The vision inspection system is guided by markings on the closure and neck support ring that are barely perceptible to the end user. The production-line operator receives statistics related to the average application angle with the capper’s tool, which allows malfunction of the tool to be detected quickly. In addition, CapWatcher FC inspects the bottle for damage, presence, and correct positioning of the closure, and records the fill level of the bottle.

CapWatcher FC embodies a new washdown design intended for systems that are located in the wet area of filling lines behind the filler. (The Intravis LabelWatcher inspection system is also available in the new washdown design.)