Discover your next big idea at PACK EXPO Las Vegas this September
Experience a breakthrough in packaging & processing and transform your business with solutions from 2,300 suppliers spanning all industries.
REGISTER NOW & SAVE

Single controller governs vision; motion and logic

A tightly integrated controls package on this pressure-sensitive labeling system brings automation plus a 50% increase in throughput.

The CPU used in the PAC that controls the pressure-sensitive labeling system.
The CPU used in the PAC that controls the pressure-sensitive labeling system.

In custom-building a pressure-sensitive top-seal labeling system for canisters of powdered beverage mix, Innoventor Solutions came up with a way to use a single programmable Automation Controller (PAC) to tightly integrate motion, vision, and logic. The PAC is National Instruments’ PXI platform, an eight-slot chassis that includes National Instruments’ 8175 CPU.

This controls solution combines the functionality of a PC and the reliability of a PLC, says Sam Hammond, Innoventor chief engineer. And because the PAC is run by National Instrument’s LabView software, a single programming language is used for motion, vision, and logic. That reduces cost and makes fewer programming demands on personnel responsible for keeping the machine running.

The p-s top-seal label at the heart of this application is placed over the top of each canister’s press-fit closure. The label used to be applied manually, but this was too slow and ergonomically undesirable.

Annual Outlook Report: Sustainability
The road ahead for CPGs in 2025 and beyond—<i>Packaging World</i> editors review key findings from a survey of 88 brand owners, CPG, and FMCG readers.
Download Now
Annual Outlook Report: Sustainability
2024 PACK EXPO Innovations Reports
Exclusive access: Packaging World editor-curated reports revealing PACK EXPO's most groundbreaking technologies across food, healthcare, and machinery sectors. Each report features truly innovative solutions selected from hundreds of exhibitors by our expert team. Transform your operations with just one click.
Access Now
2024 PACK EXPO Innovations Reports