Pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies are facing more rules for inspection checkpoints, an increasing number of product recalls, and growing outsourcing of manufacturing to emerging economies. At the same time, new technologies like IoT, machine learning (ML), and artificial intelligence (AI) are advancing quickly. Because of this, these companies are using more advanced pharmaceutical inspection machines.
In their article authors Dipak Mahajan and Sampatkumar Govind Donthula present key findings from their new market research on inspection technology.
They make a distinction between key technologies and complementary technologies. Key technologies are the main innovations that make a system or industry work. Complementary technologies help improve or support these key technologies. Pharmaceutical inspection machines use key technologies like machine vision, X-ray, and laser inspection. Complementary technologies include advanced sensors, imaging techniques, robotics, automation, and AI. Together, these technologies help pharmaceutical inspection machines improve product quality and safety.
Key technologies
Machine vision technology
Machine vision is a major technology in pharmaceutical inspection machines. Unlike manual inspections, machine vision uses cameras and computer programs to check products automatically. This technology helps detect defects, measure sizes, and confirm product assembly, improving efficiency and quality. It ensures correct labeling, packaging, and that no contaminants are present in drugs or medical devices. AI-powered machine vision improves detection of defects, maintains consistent fill levels, and enhances overall product quality.
X-Ray inspection technology
X-ray inspection is a groundbreaking method for pharmaceutical inspection machines. It uses X-ray radiation to analyze objects without damaging them. This technology detects foreign particles, ensures the right amount of medicine is in containers, and verifies tablet placement in blister packs. It helps identify broken tablets, metal or glass contamination, and packaging errors while keeping products sterile. X-ray inspection excels in rapid and efficient examination maintaining high production speed and top quality.
Laser inspection technology
Laser inspection uses laser beams to measure dimensions, check fill levels, and find surface defects like cracks or contamination. It is highly precise and can detect issues that traditional methods might miss. This technology ensures product safety and quality by providing fast and efficient inspections. It also generates detailed quality control data for regulatory compliance.
Complementary technologies
Advanced sensors and imaging techniques
Advanced sensors and imaging technologies play a key role in improving pharmaceutical inspection machines. High-resolution sensors can detect even the smallest defects, which is essential for industries like pharmaceuticals, electronics, and aerospace. Multi-spectral and hyperspectral imaging help find hidden materials and substances in various applications, including agriculture, security, and pharmaceuticals.
Robotics and automation
Robotics and automation improve efficiency and performance in pharmaceutical inspections. Automation reduces human errors and increases productivity. Automated systems help products move through inspection lines smoothly, optimizing workflow and reducing bottlenecks. Robotic systems, including pick-and-place robots and vision-guided systems, help speed up inspections. AI and ML further improve defect detection and optimize inspection parameters, reducing the need for manual work.
Artificial intelligence (AI)
AI has transformed pharmaceutical inspection machines by increasing accuracy and efficiency. AI-powered systems use advanced image recognition and deep learning to detect defects more accurately than traditional methods. These systems can identify complex patterns and small defects that human inspectors might miss. AI also classifies defects, differentiating between cracks, discoloration, and contamination. This improves defect detection, reduces false positives, and boosts productivity.
Companies across the pharmaceutical industry are investing significantly in Al to enhance inspection experience. For instance, in April 2023, Switch On (India) raised $4.2 million through a funding round led by a Singapore-based fund to expand its Al-enabled vision inspection system platform. By integrating these key and complementary technologies, pharmaceutical companies can ensure better product quality, reduce recalls, and comply with strict regulations.