The ProCo Cigarette Inspection System (PCIS) is now available for installing on Max type filter tip attachment machines.

The system is a ‘standalone’ independent system with its own enclosure and HMI with support arm. It can communicate with the machine PLC or other factory automated data collection service.

Inspection Sensors – The ProCo inspection system uses off the shelf Hauni sensors to check the quality of the cigarettes. This includes ventilation, dilution, tobacco ends, filter ends and the O.T.I.S. system (Optical Tip Inspection System).

Interface Electronics – The ProCo inspection system uses custom made electronics to condition the signals from the Hauni sensors into a form suitable for the PLC.

High Speed PLC – The ProCo inspection system incorporates a high speed IPC (Industrial Personal Computer) to deal with the high speeds of the inspection system, sampling the sensors in microseconds to give an accurate reading of the cigarette quality.

HMI (Human Machine Interface) – The ProCo inspection system features an intuitive touch screen HMI as its GUI (Graphical User Interface). This allows the timing of the inspection system to be configured quickly and easily, without the requirement for an experienced electrician.

High Resolution Encoder – The ProCo inspection system uses a high resolution encoder to sample the position of the drum, allowing accurate setting of timings and accurate ejection or faulty product.

High Speed Valve – The ProCo inspection system uses high speed valves to eject faulty product from the machine without relying on the existing machine electronics, thereby increasing the accuracy of faulty product ejection.

The system is currently being offered incorporating Beckhoff IPC and signal visualisation software (Twin Cat Scope).