Seamless transparency
Track & Trace by Uhlmann is the comprehensive solution to protect against counterfeiting and ensure product and process reliability in the pharmaceutical industry. Every packaging unit can be marked with a unique, serialized 2D code that includes all relevant information relating to production. Based on the parent/child relationship principle, the code data stored in the Uhlmann tracking database links the information from one packaging unit to that of the next largest unit. This ensures seamless transparency of the complete supply chain from production to the pharmacy.
Track & Trace by Uhlmann covers three options:
- Codification
- Label tracking
- Full serialization
Make use of the benefits
- Printing and marking systems as well as cameras for 2D codes or readers/writers for RFID tags
- Data processing for application of the results in higher level systems, e.g. MES and ERP systems
- Uhlmann tracking database - line server for the administration of all batch and serialization data
- Tight meshing with existing SCADA control systems
- Integration into new machines as well as upgrading of existing machines - including components from other manufacturers
- Coherent, easily understandable visualization of the results for the operator
- Pharmaceutically compliant documentation of production data in accordance with 21 CFR Part 11
- One contact person - Uhlmann assumes full responsibility from the line to the integrated ERP systems
Lettering and printing systems -
flexibility combined with a reduction in costs
The use of intelligent systems for the printing and marking of labels, leaflets and, in principle, also for the design of cardboard packaging, lends the production process new potential for greater flexibility.
- Optional combination of graphics, texts and variable data in a single layout
- Easy alteration of the print data during the ongoing process
- Printing of whole surfaces possible; new layouts are simply uploaded as required
- Available layouts can be converted and made available in the system
Read more about lettering and printing systems by Uhlmann VisioTec GmbH here.
Inspection systems -
for 100% reliable quality control
A wide range of inspection systems is available for optimum quality control:
- VisioPan - black/white camera system for monitoring of the position, presence, breakage and form of the products in the blister
- VisioChrom - color camera system that not only checks the position, presence, breakage and form but also the color of the products
- VisioChrom HR - high-resolution camera system that detects the smallest of faults, impurities and otherwise imperceptible defects. Reliable control of the closed blister even after sealing
- VisioNIR - system for the inline analysis of the active substances. The contact-free identification of tablets, capsules and gels with organic compounds ensures that all products in a blister have the right active ingredients, the correct concentrations, and are properly positioned in the blister
- Including different evaluation processes with the recording of extensive statistical data for each blister
Read more about Inspection systems by Uhlmann VisioTec GmbH here.
Visio4U -
innovative system to check blister tightness
The inline Visio4U inspection system detects tears or damage to the blister pockets of filled and sealed blisters. This system from Uhlmannn VisioTec closes one of the last gaps in the pharmaceutical packaging process. Previously, it was only possible to check the tightness of filled and sealed blisters by means of random, manual tests in a laboratory.
Scientific approach
A scientific approach to prove the authenticity of a product involves analysis of the chemical composition of the medicine. The combination of active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) and excipients is unique to each product and provides a "molecular fingerprint". This can be used for identification similar to the use of fingerprints in crime investigations.
The use of NIR spectroscopy allows immediate verification of whether the medicine contains the right active substances in the correct concentration. The system recognizes the "fingerprint" of each and every product. Uhlmann VisioTec offers the appropriate equipment with its VisioNIR systems. The NIR data is stored in a database and can be accessed when required.
- Integrated
serialization
- For all common types
of packaging
- Stand-alone unit
for a packaging line
- Turnkey
project management
- Manual
aggregation station
- Intuitive operator interface
Integrated serialization
Application of variable data to the cartons during the ongoing cartoning process: Uhlmann's solution in this case is the integration of an inkjet print head and a VisioRead camera for print inspection into the continuous motion cartoner. Depending on the particular requirement, VisioTec integrates inkjet and/or laser marking systems into all standard cartoners - both continuous and intermittent motion machines.
For all common types of packaging
This aggregation solution integrated into a bottle labeler not only applies an official tracking label and transfers the data to an online database, but also offers additional benefits. For instance, the tracking code can be linked to process values such as the tightening torque, results of the fill monitoring or sealing parameters. This allows subsequent access to data relevant to the quality of individual products.
Stand-alone unit for a packaging line
To avoid the re-validation of a machine or line, the straightforward linking of a stand-alone unit is an alternative to an integrated solution. Existing weighing cells, for example, can be replaced by a new unit. Such stand-alone solutions offer different levels of configuration: with or without weighing cells, with laser or inkjet systems, with camera inspection, database computer, hand-held scanner, etc. - tailored to the customer's requirements.
Turnkey project management
Uhlmann and VisioTec assume joint responsibility for turnkey project management of customized serialization projects - everything is coordinated from the packaging line to the corporate IT database. The above OCCS (offline carton coding system) was implemented on this basis. The solution was developed in close cooperation with the customer and meets all current coding and serialization specifications.
Manual aggregation station
The manual aggregation solution allows linking of the smallest unit of sale to the next largest packaging unit, e.g. case or pallet. This unit is integrated into a line for manual packaging and pallet filling. It is also suitable for use in the warehouse or distribution center of the pharmaceutical customer. The benefits include an intuitive user interface with HMI software, state-of-the-art camera technology, printing equipment for labels as well as a hand-held scanner.
Intuitive operator interface
Key features of a successful serialization solution are a userfriendly interface and straight-forward operation - particularly in the case of manual processes. All of Uhlmann's operating interfaces follow this concept and are easy to use. As an example, individual cartons can be checked using a hand-held scanner during batch production or products can be booked out of the batch for in-process control purposes. The system provides ample reporting capabilities and meets all relevant regulatory requirements.
Competence from a single source
Track & Trace by Uhlmann is implemented in three steps:
- Integration of peripheral equipment such as a laser or inkjet printer and inspection cameras to verify the codes
- Linking to the line database
- Transfer of the line data to a higher level system, the site server. If required, this can also be implemented by Uhlmann as part of a turnkey project.
