Food Packaging Label Inspection

AI OCR for Expiration Date and Lot Code Checks

During batch changeovers, food packaging lines need to verify that printed expiration dates and lot codes match the current system database. Clearly printed text may still contain outdated batch information. Packaging glare, low print contrast or distorted characters can also make text difficult to read.

With suitable lighting and an AI optical character recognition (OCR) model, the system can read expiration dates and lot codes, flag mismatches or unreadable text, and retain records for investigation. AI-assisted reading and database checks help personnel identify labeling errors quickly, reducing the time needed for follow-up verification and tracing.

Coordinating Lighting and Image Recognition

Food packaging label inspection requires lighting, image capture and processing to match the packaging material and line speed. Portwell’s PJAI-1100 can be paired with cameras and lighting controllers to suit each inspection station. Ethernet and digital I/O connections support image acquisition or inspection signal exchange. At the station, compatible OCR software reads expiration dates and lot codes, then compares them with database records. Results can be classified as pass, mismatch or unreadable for subsequent handling and logging.

PJAI-1100 for On-Site OCR Inspection

PJAI-1100 combines edge AI computing with peripheral connectivity. Its configuration can be evaluated against the OCR workload and station conditions to support local image analysis and database checks.

• NVIDIA^® Jetson Orin™ Nano / Orin NX options for local inference — Select a configuration to match the OCR model and image capture rate, reducing the need to send images elsewhere for analysis.
• Dual GbE and USB 3.2 for image input and data transfer — One Ethernet port can receive camera images, while the second can connect to the management network as needed. USB 3.2 adds flexibility for peripheral connections.
• 8-bit digital I/O for lighting triggers — Sends trigger signals to a compatible lighting controller, which handles the light source drive.
• Compact, fanless design for station deployment — Wall and DIN-rail mounting support installation in space-constrained dry packaging areas or protected cabinets, with cooling and cable routing planned for site conditions.

Station Integration for Packaging and Production Requirements

Portwell’s Design and Manufacturing Services (DMS) can help evaluate computing configurations and plan equipment connections and integration validation around packaging characteristics and production-line requirements. Expiration date and lot code results can then feed into existing exception-handling and recordkeeping workflows, reducing data preparation and investigation effort while helping personnel track labeling issues through resolution.