Rohde & Schwarz has introduced the R&S IMAGER, a real-time millimeter wave inspection system designed to bring greater transparency and efficiency to industrial quality control, without the need for X-rays.
The solution enables manufacturers to see through common packaging materials at production speed, offering a safer alternative that protects both products and operators.
At the core of the system is advanced millimeter wave imaging technology. It penetrates packaging materials, captures return signals via a sensor array, and converts them into high-contrast 3D images. These images can serve as digital twins and integrate directly into AI-driven inspection systems for automated fault detection.
The technology is particularly impactful for the pharmaceutical sector, where non-ionizing radiation ensures that drug efficacy remains unaffected.
Unlike traditional inspection methods that rely on cameras or weight checks, the R&S IMAGER can look through multi-layer packaging, cardboard, and laminated seals to verify the presence and correct placement of items such as syringes, needles, and autoinjectors.
Each package is rendered in 3D at line speed, allowing AI systems to flag missing or misaligned components without slowing production. This not only strengthens compliance with regulatory standards but also reduces the risk of costly recalls.
Beyond pharma, the system offers clear advantages in logistics and supply chain operations. Conventional methods often fall short when it comes to verifying the contents of sealed packages, while X-ray systems raise safety and regulatory concerns.
The R&S IMAGER addresses both issues by delivering real-time internal views of packages on conveyor systems.
AI algorithms analyze these images to detect anomalies such as missing items or damage, improving inventory accuracy and reducing reliance on manual inspection. The technology also supports the use of more sustainable packaging materials, ensuring visibility even when eco-friendly options are used.
In the food and beverage industry, the system provides a non-invasive way to inspect sealed cartons, glass containers, and multipacks. Millimeter waves can detect hidden defects such as damaged goods, missing items, or even subtle issues like vacuum loss in bottles.
Because the process does not impact food quality or worker safety, it aligns with strict regulatory standards while enabling high-speed production. Early defect detection helps reduce waste, extend shelf life, and maintain brand integrity.
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