FDBusiness.com

Real-time data analysis tool for improved operational control, efficiency and easy-access compliance reporting.

Loma has formed an exclusive partnership with AutoCoding Systems to develop a real-time data analysis tool for improved operational control, efficiency and easy-access compliance reporting.

Launched to the UK market at Total, the new Ethernet PC-based software system is designed to monitor the performance of multiple Loma checkweighers and metal detectors; providing instant feedback across all production lines in a central format. By consolidating accurate data in this way, operators can identify and address inefficiencies quickly rather than waiting for historical reports. This level of control also enables information relating to contaminant detection rates, weight and overfill records to be compiled quickly to show compliance with current legislation.

The availability of real-time data from Loma checkweighers is of particular value in recording and tracking the cost of product giveaway per line against baseline performance targets. Operators are able to adjust production processes quickly; so ensuring product giveaway is kept to a minimum and unit weight targets are achieved. This benefits food manufacturers’ costcentres by ensuring compliance with the latest weights and measures legislation at the lowest weight possible.

“By partnering with AutoCoding Systems, we have extended our capabilities in data capture to offer customers a remote reporting solution based on the latest software technologies, which can be installed on any production line and has the advantage of ongoing specialist technical support,” says Tony Bryant, UK sales manager for Loma. “Our customers also have the option to expand the scope of their data management solution via AutoCoding Systems’ broader automation expertise across packaging line operations.”

Whilst the first wave of effort has concentrated on Loma’s range of checkweighers and metal detectors , the company’s x-ray inspection systems will soon also be integrated into the reporting system – providing food manufactures with a fully comprehensive data analysis tool.

“Importantly, the same software framework is suitable for our sister company’ products and is the focus of the next development phase which is already underway. Lock has particular expertise in the pharmaceutical sector, so we will ensure the software meets and keeps pace with specific manufacturing challenges in this area,” explains Bryant.

“Together with AutoCoding Systems, we plan to continue to enhance our software solution through ongoing customer feedback. Optimisation for the various mobile platforms is also a key part of the strategy going forward,” he adds.

The new software system will be piloted with food manufacturers in Europeprior to a global roll out later in the year. For further information visit www.loma.com.