Shipping to Vietnam-Customization Vision Counting Packing Machine

Case Study: Streamlining Packaging with Data Traceability for a Vietnamese Luggage Hardware Manufacturer

Introduction:
This case study outlines the successful deployment and integration of a fully automated, vision-based counting and packaging line for a manufacturer of plastic hardware components, specifically luggage buckles and fasteners, in Vietnam. The project's core objective was to replace a manual, error-prone process with a high-speed, closed-loop system that guarantees count accuracy and provides complete batch traceability.

Client Profile:
Our client is a key supplier to the luggage and bag industry, producing high volumes of plastic components such as buckles, clips, and adjusters. Their products are shipped to assembly plants both domestically within Vietnam and internationally.

The Challenge:
The manual counting of 500 small, lightweight plastic components per bag was inefficient and inconsistent. Human counting errors led to shipment discrepancies, causing production delays for their clients and damaging their reputation. Furthermore, the lack of data on individual packages made traceability and quality control nearly impossible.

The Solution: An Integrated Automated Packaging Line with Traceability
We engineered a seamless system that connects directly to the client's existing upstream production machinery, automating the process from feeding to final packaging with data imprinting.

1. Automated Feeding & Vision Counting:
The process begins with an automatic feeding system that is directly connected to the client's upstream production machine. This feeder receives the bulk plastic components and gently conveys them into the Vision Counting System. Here, components are singulated and passed under a high-resolution camera. Advanced vision software accurately counts each item, ensuring a precise batch of exactly 500 pieces every time.

2. In-Line Weight Verification:
The counted batch drops directly onto a precision checkweigher conveyor. This unit instantly verifies the total weight of the batch against a pre-set acceptable tolerance. This step acts as a critical secondary confirmation of the count accuracy. Only batches that pass this weight check are allowed to proceed.

3. Automated Bagging with Thermal Transfer Overprinter:
Approved batches are automatically dispensed into the waiting bags of the packaging machine. A key feature of this system is the integrated hot-stamp printing (thermal transfer) coder. Immediately after sealing, the printer directly onto the packaging film. This provides instant, clear, and smudge-proof traceability.

4. Final Conveyance:
The finished, printed bags are gently transported via a finished product conveyor belt to a designated collection point, ready for boxing and shipment. This complete integration eliminates manual handling from the moment the parts are produced until they are packaged.

• Eliminated Counting Errors: 100% accuracy ensured by the vision system and confirmed by the checkweigher.

• Full Batch Traceability: Each bag now carries essential data (weight, batch number, time) for quality control and logistics.

• Significant Labor Savings: The system operates unattended, freeing operators for higher-value tasks.

• Enhanced Professionalism: The neatly printed bags improve product presentation and brand image.