Connected Solutions for Sustainable Production BST presents innovative quality assurance and process optimization at K 2025

iPQ-Surface with new 16k camera and AI support

One of the highlights is the modular surface inspection system iPQ-Surface, which will be presented at K 2025 with significant enhancements and further developments. The BST iPQ-Surface now features a new 16k camera, offering even higher resolution and reliably detecting the smallest material defects. This technology is complemented by a rule-based classifier as standard solution plus the possibility to enhance even more the performance and user experience thanks to the introduction of Artificial intelligence based on Deep Learning.

MPX stroboscopic technology for precise defect detection

Another major innovation is the introduction of MPX stroboscope technology within the iPQ-Surface. Originally developed for battery cell production, this technology has now been optimized for flexible packaging materials. The stroboscope technology allows multiple images to be captured in a single pass under varying lighting conditions, enabling the identification of defects that are only visible under specific illumination. This, for example, makes it possible to distinguish between “gels” – caused by incomplete melting during extrusion – and “burnt” defects, resulting from residue in the extruder. This innovation significantly increases inspection accuracy and supports companies in sustainably improving their quality standards. – #FORYOU only the best.

CLS CAM 200: Precision and sustainability combined

“With the new camera-based sensor CLS CAM 200, we are presenting an innovation at K 2025 that combines precision and sustainability. The system regulates directly based on contrast features, thereby increasing quality and efficiency,” explains Ingo Ellerbrock, Product Manager at BST. The CLS CAM 200 features automatically adjusted LED lighting and supports both bright-field and dark-field operation for reflective surfaces. The system is operated centrally via the BST SMART COM 100 Commander, complemented by an optical positioning device and automatic job and setup memory.

TubeScan XL—Modularity for a wide range of inspection tasks

With the TubeScan XL product family, BST offers a cost-effective entry into 100% print and surface inspection. Thanks to its modular design, TubeScan XL can be perfectly tailored to individual inspection requirements. Various lighting options – such as white light, UV, backlight, or contour light – can be used individually or in combination, enabling targeted inspection illumination for a wide range of substrates. Additional software modules, such as graphical visualization of inspection results (Dynamic Roll Map), integration of this data into automated post-processing workflows (QLink Workflow), or options such as distance monitoring of features (e.g., sleeve widths), barcode and OCR inspection, as well as PDF comparison for reference validation, enhance quality assurance and can be flexibly expanded at any time. Thanks to its compact design, TubeScan XL can be integrated into almost any production machine. Delivery includes a complete inspection module, including web guide rollers, minimizing installation effort and downtime – for a fast, seamless start to efficient production.

iPQ-View with new zoom technology

Another highlight is the new version of the iPQ-View, which at K 2025 will impress with a new zoom technology, more advanced illumination and smaller housing. “iPQ-View offers users maximum process reliability through exceptional image quality and intuitive operation,” says Kim Lewald, Product Manager at BST. The system enables precise real-time monitoring of critical print areas and makes a significant contribution to error prevention and quality optimization. Thanks to modern CMOS technology and energy-efficient lighting units, it delivers top performance with minimal energy consumption.

iPQ-Check Digital for digital printing

BST will also present the innovative iPQ-Check Digital system at K 2025, which extends BST’s proven 100% inspection capabilities specifically for digital printing. “With iPQ-Check Digital, we integrate PDF-based job data directly into the inspection process, creating a seamless connection to SMARTData,” adds Kim Lewald. Integration into the central data management system enables complete documentation of all quality-relevant information, making it available for subsequent process steps.

SLITTINGControl – Perfect cutting process

Another focal point is the stand-alone BST SLITTINGControl system. This system precisely measures and monitors the width of each daughter roll and the coating position, compares them with target values, and automatically corrects deviations. Easy integration into existing machine layouts and immediate visual control via live image display allow errors to be rectified directly, effectively reducing machine stops and waste.

SMARTData – Intelligent networking of all systems

The intelligent networking of all solutions is achieved via BST’s central platform, SMARTData. This innovative data management solution collects and analyzes quality-relevant data with precise positional accuracy across all process steps. As a result, process deviations are detected early, waste is reduced, and optimization potentials are identified. In addition, SMARTData supports companies in implementing predictive maintenance concepts. At K 2025, BST introduces iPQ-Surface with full integration into the SMARTData Lake (SDL). Inspection data is now stored centrally and can be easily accessed and analyzed via the browser-based SMARTData Review (SDR) – alongside data from other BST systems already connected to the SDL. This creates a consistent data foundation, speeds up decision-making, and supports efficient process optimization.

FRAMEGuide and web tension measurement for highest accuracy

BST is also presenting the FRAMEGuide: an innovative rotating frame with low overall height and maximum control accuracy. The system can be seamlessly integrated into a wide variety of machine layouts and ensures optimum quality with minimal space requirements. The BST web tension measurement system enables continuous recording and control of web tension, which ensures stable processes and consistent product quality.

Future-proof solutions for production

“By deploying our digital and intelligently networked systems, we provide our customers with solutions that guarantee the highest quality standards while significantly reducing production costs and waste," says Joachim Barthelme, Executive Vice President Business Unit Flexible Materials at BST.