PrintPack 2025: V-Vab Vision Technologies introduces Braille inspection system

V-Vab Vision Technologies has introduced a Braille inspection system designed and manufactured in India, aiming to replace imported alternatives. The system has already been installed at a customer site, with early feedback indicating positive market reception.

“This is the first time a Braille inspection system has been made in India. Until now, printers have had to rely on imported solutions. One of our goals is to offer locally developed substitutes for imported systems,” said Vincent Swamy, director at V-Vab Vision Technologies.

The company has received a strong response to the new system, particularly from pharmaceutical printers exporting cartons with Braille requirements. Swamy noted that Braille embossing is critical for accessibility, ensuring visually impaired users' correct depth and alignment. “If there is a misplaced or missing character, or if the depth is insufficient, the information cannot be read correctly. These elements are crucial for exported cartons, and our system ensures compliance with these requirements,” he said.

The cost of existing Braille inspection systems has been a barrier for many Indian printers, limiting adoption. “The market has not fully embraced Braille inspection due to the high cost of available systems. We are making it accessible to a wider base of printers who were previously unable to compete for Braille carton orders,” Swamy said. The company expects to sell at least 100 units in the next two to three years.

While the company has completed its first installation, it is keeping further announcements on hold to respect customer confidentiality. “Our first customer put faith in us and gave us the opportunity to develop this system. It was a joint effort, and we want to acknowledge their trust,” he said.

V-Vab Vision Technologies specialises in vision-based inspection and automation solutions. The company operates a manufacturing facility in Vasai, 60 km away from Mumbai, where it produces conveyors, electrical panels, and other components. “We do not manufacture everything in-house. Many components are sourced from vendors according to our specifications. However, system integration, assembly, testing, and quality control are entirely managed at our facility,” said Vinayak Munipalli, director at V-Vab Vision Technologies.

The company has also introduced FG Vision, a camera-based retrofit system for folder-gluers that enables QR code and barcode detection on cartons. “Different production environments require unique applications for QR and barcodes. A simple mix-up can lead to serious consequences in sectors like pharmaceuticals. Our system ensures product integrity by verifying codes during production,” Munipalli said.

Another key area is the company’s Robo Vision system, which is designed for rigid box manufacturing. The system automates the pick-and-place process using camera-assisted robotics, addressing inconsistencies in manual operations. “Rigid box production has two levels—semi-automatic, producing 2,000 to 3,000 boxes per day, and fully automatic, producing up to 25,000 boxes. There is a significant gap in quality and productivity between these two. Our Robo Vision system bridges that gap by offering the precision of an automatic system in a semi-automatic setup,” Munipalli said.

The company sees further applications for its robotic pick-and-place technology in packaging and product handling. “We are exploring new segments, including in-mould applications, where automation can replace manual intervention. There is strong interest, but affordability remains a challenge for some businesses. Over time, as automation becomes a necessity, adoption will grow,” he said.

Looking ahead to 2025, the company plans to focus on consolidating its Braille inspection and Robo Vision systems. “We have received a high number of enquiries at PrintPack, but these are not off-the-shelf products. Each installation requires customisation. The next step is to engage with potential customers, understand their exact requirements, and implement these solutions effectively,” Munipalli said.

V-Vab Vision Technologies has installed around 12 to 13 vision systems across the country, with an additional 17 to 18 print-quality inspection systems in operation. The company is also working on a ‘Make in India’ initiative for print quality inspection, with further announcements expected in the coming year.