An Automated Visual Auditing System

Additional information about VCS and the Wine and Spirits Distribution industry.

Vision Capture System, VCS is a computer-based image data collection system that provides real-time captures of case contents or full case auditing for Manufacturing and Distribution Centers. VCS utilizes high-speed digital color cameras along with identification data from barcode scanners to capture an image of the top, side, and/or contents of a case. The system can be used for both stationary or in-motion applications.

VCS provides the tool to verify and audit shipment to your customers.
The image capture function is triggered from the barcode reader scanning the shipping/order label. This message triggers the cameras to capture the desired view. The image data and barcode are stored in a high performance Database allowing a supervisor or manager a simple and rapid means to retrieve images based on the case order number. The images can also be transmitted to the customer’s host system for order tracking, order delivery verification, quality audits, and to satisfy regulatory agency compliance requirements.

Reports and Inquiry: A Windows NT Workstation manages Images from the camera and carton-tracking numbers. The system contains a search feature to inquire on any carton by the order number. When an order number is keyed into the search field, the carton image and time of capture is displayed on the screen. All information is retained on the system for use whenever needed.

Mounting and Operation Overview: The VCS is typically mounted prior to the shipping sorter over the induct meter belt. The frame should be fixed to the floor or to the mezzanine platform in such a way that is does not come in contact with the conveyor. The high-speed digital camera, incandescent lights, a photo-eye, and a scanner are positioned on this frame. As cartons pass beneath the camera, they break the photo-eye beam, which triggers the camera to capture the carton image. The bar code scanner is mounted on the top or side of the conveyor (Depending on where the Carton ID Tracking Number is placed) to capture the Carton ID Tracking Number. The picture and the carton tracking number are married together in the database.

Specifications: The Workstation is housed in an Industrial enclosure adjacent to the frame. The system is powered by an uninterruptible power supply. An air conditioner can be supplied as an option to protect the system in high ambient temperature environments.

Vision-Spect™ Software Module is an optional on-line image inspection tool. This software module matches learned color and pixel patterns of your product and compares it to the actual image captured in the VCS. It is used to identify miss-applied bar codes and to determine picking and shipping errors. The software module operates in real-time and prevents wrong product from shipping to Your Customer. This provides your facility with an on-line product fulfillment validation. If carton characteristics do not match the known characteristics contained in the SKU’s database, the carton is diverted to the exception lane.

Additional Features of the Vision Capture System

Adjustment settings for the camera parameters are done through the PC Workstation. All the parameter adjustments are in software.

High-speed shutter control providing 1/100K image capture without the need of specialty lighting or strobe lighting.

Camera includes integral 12x zoom lens with motorized zoom, iris, and focus to easily adapt to each unique installation requirement.

High-Speed fire wire camera interface allows transfer of images without compressing the file, eliminating lost images or data.

Browser based viewing tools allows access to the data from several departments without the need of any special software.

(630) 343-2600
FAX: (630) 343-2636

VPAK Vision Pick and Audit System PDF Product Sheet