EyeC GmbH, Barcelona, Spain, a leading global provider of automated artwork and print image inspection systems, announced the official launch of its AI-based defect classification. Effective immediately, all inline inspection systems in the EyeC ProofRunner Web line will be equipped with the world’s first pre-trained AI.
EyeC’s new AI solution marks a major step forward – from simple defect detection to content-based classification and analysis. The pre-trained system identifies relevant quality deviations with precision and automatically categorizes them into four main defect classes: material, dust, spots and streaks – plus the category “other”. Additional classes will be added in regular cycles. With the highest assignment accuracy, the EyeC ProofRunner Web detects all defects, even hidden material flaws within text fields. A key advantage of this new technology lies in its ability to distinguish between critical defects that require immediate corrective action, such as
ink smears or material issues, and non-critical deviations like dust particles or substrate inclusions. While the latter are documented, they do not trigger unnecessary production stops. The result: significantly fewer false positives combined with faster processing speeds.
Sustainability in focus
The AI-powered defect classification is particularly relevant for companies that must comply with regulations and initiatives aimed at reducing packaging waste and promoting a circular economy, such as the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). The advanced image processing capabilities consider the varying optical properties of sustainable materials, enabling the system to reliably distinguish between acceptable surface irregularities and true defects when inspecting recycled substrates.
The training methodology is based on extensive datasets comprising hundreds of thousands of real print job images. By analyzing this vast image library, EyeC’s artificial intelligence learns to differentiate between flaws that require attention and those that have no impact on the final product’s quality. The pre-trained system eliminates the need for complex customer specific training and is ready for immediate use.
“With our AI-based defect classification, we’re setting a new industry standard,” says Nico Hagemann, director of Product Management at EyeC GmbH. “While conventional systems only detect defects, our AI understands them like an experienced expert and distinguishes critical issues from irrelevant deviations. This empowers our customers to carry out precise inline inspections at full production speed while saving both time and resources.”
The AI-based defect classification for the EyeC ProofRunner Web will be available as part of its base configuration starting with Labelexpo Europe 2025 and will be included as a standard feature with every new system. The rollout to additional systems, including the EyeC ProofRunner Sheetfed, will follow in close cooperation with OEM partners.
About EyeC GmbH
Founded in 2002, EyeC GmbH provides fast, accurate, and easy-to-use artwork and print inspection systems. EyeC is the only provider on the market that ensures product quality throughout the entire manufacturing process – from the first artwork file to the finished printed product. Products from EyeC provide users with 100% confidence about the print quality of their products, such as labels, folding boxes, package inserts or flexible packaging.
As a result, complaints and recalls are minimized, production costs are lowered, and quality testing is optimized. Around the world, more than 3,000 EyeC inspection systems are currently used by pharmaceutical companies, printers and manufacturers of branded goods. The company currently employs over 70 people in Hamburg and has international sales partners in more than 100 countries.
For more information, visit www.EyeC.com.