dr.schwab Inspection Technology now offers an After Print Inspection solution, the IQPCmatrix, based on a 4 mega pixels matrix camera.

Each disc is usually tested by an in-line scanner after the replication process, before printing. But the print process may cause ink splashes and the handling procedure may cause scratches or other defects at the disc's read-out side. Based on a mega pixels matrix camera, the IQPCmatrix solution is able to detect those defects.

The main field of application of the system lies in Read Side Inspection of optical discs after the printing process. A high resolution matrix camera offers full surface defect detection with a resolution of 60 ?m, even on the inner area (see Pic 1) of the disc. Combined with dr. schwab's defect classification and Trend Analysis features the system provides reliable information for quality and process control.

An additional feature is reading and verification of the disc's Barcode, as well as detection of the BCA Code (see Pic 2 & 3). The new inspection approach does not require rotating the disc 360 degrees and fault detection and code verification is done simultaneously. Therefore the actual inspection time is very fast and results in cycle times of 300 ms, according to dr.schwab. With it's configurable parameter sets the system allows adaptation to customer specific requirements and is easily integrated into any line for complete automation. With its closed loop functionality the IQPCmatrix gives immediate feedback information to control and optimize the printing process.