Tamper-proof sealing of folded cartons - Gloss sensor Glare from SICK

The Glare gloss sensor from SICK is specially designed to recognize and differentiate objects on the basis of their gloss in order to control production processes.

The Glare sensor analyzes the spatial distribution of reflected light using Delta-S technology. This allows the sensor to determine the gloss level of flat object surfaces and to differentiate between objects of differing gloss levels. The measurement result is transmitted to the process controls either via two digital switching outputs or IO-Link. Several operating modes are available, making the Glare sensor perfectly suited to a range of different applications. The combination of intelligent signal evaluation algorithms, the multi-sensor arrangement and sensitivity adjustments ensure increased operational safety in industrial applications. The Glare's IO-Link interface enables the sensor to be integrated into the machine controller, featuring automatic, process-oriented configuration and online diagnostics.

Maximum protection against tampering – the aim of EN 16679:2014

This makes the Glare gloss sensor outstanding for the implementation of DIN EN 16679 “Packaging – Tamper verification features for medicinal product packaging.” It will expand guideline 2011/62/EU (Falsified Medicines Directive) to ensure the genuineness and verifiability of individual packs, and thus to prevent forged or adulterated medication and lifestyle preparations from entering legitimate distribution channels.

As a form of protection against prior opening, transparent seals neither affect the pack design nor cover up the required wording or markings on the packaging. The damage to the perforation when first opened, however – i.e., the broken edge that results from opening – is instantly visible. In the scope of already realized applications two label dispersers are used, for example, that attach the safety labels to the two opening flaps. In order to identify errors in dispensing or attaching the labels immediately, 100 percent reliable detection of the applied labels is essential. Glare's innovative detection concept has made it possible to design the tamper-evident function of a system with maximum process reliability.

Even when there is still a transitional period of approx. three years to implement the directive, manufacturers and packagers of human medication must now deal with the requirements on their packaging lines.

In addition to the thorough checking of pharma packaging, Glare opens up a range of further interesting applications such as the monitoring of damp oil, adhesive or paint coatings in auto-mobile production, the monitoring of smoothing, cleaning and polishing processes, the detection of glossy or transparent pack-aging in food and drink technology, the monitoring of glue applications in wood and furniture production, and the checking of coatings on assemblies and layers in the construction of solar panels and flat-screen monitors. Glare, in addition to the known features of reflectance, color and luminescence, expands with the gloss the spectrum of the optical properties of objects for reliable detection of objects for the automation of machines.

SICK is one of the world’s leading producers of sensors and sensor solutions for industrial applications. Founded in 1946 by Dr.-Ing. e. h. Erwin Sick, the company with headquarters in Waldkirch im Breisgau near Freiburg ranks among the technological market leaders. With more than 50 subsidiaries and equity investments as well as numerous representative offices, SICK maintains a presence around the globe. In the 2014 fiscal year, SICK had about 7,000 employees worldwide and achieved Group sales of EUR 1,099.8 million.