AutoCoding Systems works with major retailer on eliminating coding and packaging errors
AutoCoding Systems, specialists in automation of packaging line devices, has worked in consultation with a major retailer to help them implement guidelines to ensure all products supplied to them always have the right packaging, the right label and the right date code.
Suppliers are being asked to subject each finished product pack to an on-line automatic system to verify the use of the correct product packaging and coding.
To achieve this there are a number of mandatory requirements that have to be met to ensure compliance and, whilst there are a number of companies that supply automatic set-up systems for coding and labelling equipment, the solutions often fall short of the required elements.
A 2D barcode scanner checks that the correct packaging version is being used
Each packaging line should be controlled by a line terminal or other suitable hardware. With an autocoding management system from AutoCoding Systems every line is controlled by a dedicated industrial PC housed in a stainless steel cabinet. The line terminal communicates with a SQL database holding key product information and relevant coding profiles, including date rules, promotions and concessions relating to individual SKUs. The AutoCoding system can seamlessly integrate to leading ERP and Planning systems ensuring the master SKU data is automatically populated to the AutoCoding system database.
The line terminal is responsible for the set-up and control of the line devices via its own industrial network (eg TCP/IP, Serial). Data for the date code and associated packaging barcodes is pushed to the relevant line devices thus eliminating the need for manual set-up with the associated risk of error.
In the event of a network failure, the line terminal will continue to operate using local data until the network is restored, at which time the locally generated data is uploaded to the central database thereby providing an unbroken audit trail of events.
Packaging can be verified by the use of a 2D code, or other mark, via in-line or off-line scanning to ensure the correct packaging components are continuously used during a production run. If required, the system can be extended to include promotional stickers.
If a fault is detected, for instance an incorrect label, or a no-read from the scanner or if the coder or labeller goes into “fault state”, the system has the ability to automatically stop the packaging line ensuring mistakes are avoided.
AutoCoding Systems works with all the major coding, labelling and packaging equipment companies and can integrate to a wide range of packaging line equipment, irrespective of manufacturer.
For more information, contact Janet Harrison at AutoCoding Systems Ltd
Tel : 01928 790444
