100% print inspection system: DetectAXIS – an intelligent supervisor for defect detection

A.T.E.’s DetectAXIS is a 100% print inspection system suitable for various defect detection applications on rotogravure and CI flexo presses, among others. The DetectAXIS has high resolution line scan cameras that capture sharp ‘near print quality’ images at full production speeds. 

Conventionally, during a production run, an operator visually inspects the print web to check the print quality. However, at high web speeds, it is impossible for an operator to spot printing errors with the unassisted eye. A.T.E.’s DetectAXIS continuously inspects the entire print surface for defects. It does this by comparing every captured image against a golden template, and thus is able to detect defects that escape the human eye. 

In the recent past, the print and packaging industry has witnessed an upsurge in demand for high quality printed material. To keep up with this demand, printers and converters are increasing production speeds. This increases the chances of defects and errors on the print web not being spotted until after a large amount of material had already been printed, which in turn results in higher rejections during quality checks. Rejections increase rework, thus severely affecting productivity and hence profitability. The best solution to such increased production and quality pressures is to ensure consistent, high quality print by using an automated defect detection system such as the DetectAXIS.

With cutting edge smart imaging technology, the DetectAXIS captures precise, clear and high quality images of the print web, irrespective of the printing method and/or type of substrate. The DetectAXIS’ line scan cameras captures images at more than 150 DPI at full production speeds of 500 metres per minute or more. Even the tiniest of errors of up to 0.01 mm2 are identified. When a defect is spotted, DetectAXIS generates alarms and tags the defect, consequently bringing to the operator’s attention that corrective action is needed. It ensures defect free, high quality print output.

“DetectAXIS is designed for operational flexibility to improve print quality, resulting in higher productivity and profitability. This solution helps converters prevent expensive raw material wastage and reduce rework losses,” said Mr Anand Mehta, VP - Print and Packaging Equipment, A.T.E. Enterprises.

The DetectAXIS also has features such as adjustable sensitivity setting, colour density monitoring, filter zone selection and roll mapping with rewinder controls and more.

With deep domain knowledge built over three decades in the field of print and packaging, A.T.E. is known as a reliable source of quality products. A.T.E. has developed customised solutions for demanding and complex printing applications. A.T.E. believes that DetectAXIS will give printers a competitive edge through the direct impact it has on cost saving, waste reduction, and improved efficiency, thus leading to increased productivity and profitability.