VMT MultiCount is an image processing system designed for the automatic counting of vials and ampoules in pharmaceutical production. The system performs an exact count of the items in a tray or magazine, verifies the result against the predefined target value, and documents each count on a batch-specific basis. The standard configuration is a manual inspection station used after the magazine loading process. An integrated version is available for incorporation into an existing production line. MultiCount+ represents the advanced version designed to meet more demanding requirements: it utilizes the same system architecture but adds a line-scan camera mounted on a traversing axis to count ampoules and vials within the magazine.
Unit-by-unit
Counts every vial and ampoule individually – without manual recounting.
Comprehensive documentation
Batch-specific logging and transfer to your database.
Format-flexible
One system for various vial and ampoule formats.
How it works
Batch start and data entry
Log-in at the operator station; entry of batch number, container type, and format. Counting operations are enabled only after this step. Consequently, every count is linked to a specific batch and user.
Counting process
The tray or magazine is positioned repeatably via side guides; proximity switches monitor the position and prevent double-counting of trays. Activation is triggered by a start button. With the MultiCount+ model, the traversing axis scans across the loaded magazine. In the integrated version, the system controller handles positioning and triggering via Profinet.
Result and documentation
Automatic comparison of actual values against format-specific specifications. In the event of a discrepancy, a notification appears at the operator station, and the operator classifies the issue—such as a partial tray or incorrect count. This is followed by label printing and logging in the batch overview (number of trays, containers counted, and status per tray).
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How it works
Software & Usability
Guided operation with VMT IS/ VMT ONE
Operation via VMT IS, VMT’s image processing software: log-in, batch entry, counting, and batch completion in a fixed sequence. Deletion of a count is restricted to logged-in users with the appropriate authorization. Integrated functional check to verify system operation before the start of a batch. Coming soon to VMT ONE, VMT’s new software platform—while retaining the full scope of functionality.
User Management and Audit Trail
Role-based user management; logging of all user access and parameter changes. Batch-related audit trail available as a PDF and a password-protected database file, filterable by user and time period. Optional storage on a network drive with local buffering during network outages and automatic data re-transmission. Supports 21 CFR Part 11 and cGMP requirements.
Formats and inspection plans
Each format is treated as a separate inspection plan with its own parameter set and target specifications. New formats are created by copying an existing inspection plan within the same container type—eliminating the need for reprogramming. The system supports vial and ampoule formats based on customer specifications, such as ampoules ranging from 1 ml to 20 ml and vials of various height classes.
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Software & Usability
Hardware
Camera and lighting
2D matrix cameras for single-shot tray imaging; monochrome line-scan cameras for magazine scanning in the MultiCount+ system. Resolution, lens focal length, and working distance are configured based on container format and inspection area size. Illumination is provided by two industrial area lights with an IP64 rating; light color and diffusion levels are selected for each application to reliably distinguish between the glass, the cap, and the background—regardless of ambient lighting conditions.
Travel axis (MultiCount+)
The camera and lighting are mounted together on a travel axis and scan the magazine in a continuous scan. This ensures constant illumination over the entire recording and complete capture of long magazines in high resolution.
System platform and peripherals
Processing via an industrial-grade VMT IPC. Peripherals per configuration: operator monitor, label printer, KVM switch, and UPS to safeguard ongoing batches against power failure. System integration for the embedded version via Profinet; lighting control via the camera's strobe output.
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Hardware
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