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Production Tracking and Automated Labeling

Production Tracking and Automated Labeling for a Global Container Closure Manufacturer

Production Tracking and Automated Labeling for a Global Container Closure Manufacturer

Client Profile


A global leader in container closures partnered with Artisan Technologies to modernize its production tracking and labeling processes. The client sought to improve traceability, eliminate manual errors, and gain real-time visibility into plant operations across multiple PLCs, robots, and autonomous guided vehicles (AGVs).


The Challenge


The client’s operations spanned dozens of production lines involving complex material flows and multiple automation layers, including:

  • Over 30 PLCs, 5 robots, and 20+ AGVs working in concert

  • Manual and siloed systems that made tracking and traceability difficult

  • Labeling and barcode workflows that were prone to inefficiencies and human error

  • A need for tight ERP integration without risking production downtime or data mismatches

Without unified tracking, production data remained fragmented, compliance was harder to maintain, and plant leadership lacked the real-time visibility required for data-driven decision-making and scaling.


The Solution


Artisan Technologies designed and implemented a Lightweight Manufacturing Execution System (MES) to seamlessly bridge IT and OT systems—delivering full traceability, automated labeling, and real-time data collection without the overhead of traditional MES platforms.


Key capabilities included:

  • Automated Print-and-Apply with Barcode Verification Integrated print engines and scanners ensured every carton was labeled correctly and verified in real time.Result: Eliminated manual labeling errors and improved compliance accuracy.

  • Track-and-Trace with Barcode Scanning Provided end-to-end visibility across production lines, robots, and AGVs, allowing supervisors to instantly pinpoint issues and track product flow across millions of units.Result: Enabled real-time product traceability and rapid issue resolution.

  • PLC-to-Database Integration A standardized communication layer connected 30+ PLCs to a central database, synchronizing robot pick points, product-specific parameters, and carton tracking data.Result: Simplified data flow across systems, improving reliability and reducing integration complexity.

  • ERP Abstraction Layer Instead of direct ERP connectivity, Artisan developed a secure middleware layer that synchronized production data without disrupting existing business systems.Result: Delivered seamless ERP visibility while minimizing integration risk and downtime.

  • Centralized Data Historian All product, equipment, and label data was logged to a unified historian for analytics, reporting, and compliance.Result: Provided a single source of truth for audits, performance analysis, and continuous improvement.


The Results


The new system transformed the client’s manufacturing operations into a data-driven, fully traceable production environment, producing over 1 million cartons per year with greater efficiency and confidence.


Key outcomes included:

  • 100% traceability across all PLCs, robots, and AGVs

  • Real-time visibility for supervisors and engineers, reducing downtime and troubleshooting time

  • Improved labeling accuracy and compliance through automated print-and-verify workflows

  • Unified production data across multiple automation systems into one centralized database

  • Future-ready ERP integration via a scalable middleware architecture


Summary


By integrating automation, data, and traceability into one cohesive system, Artisan Technologies enabled the client to modernize its production floor without disruption—achieving higher throughput, quality assurance, and operational visibility at scale.


Artisan Technologies helps manufacturers unify the plant floor with enterprise systems—delivering visibility, efficiency, and scalability. Contact us to explore what we can build for you.

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