Abstract: An inspection system is disclosed for detecting dimensional tolerances, shape and cosmetic defects in containers. A conveyer carries the containers past an inspection point where at least one focused beam of radiant energy traverses the container's surface at a steep angle. The pattern of the surface is detected and evaluated by optical imaging techniques to determine the acceptability of the inspected container while maintaining a capability of making allowances for manufacturing tolerances of the relative position of the area under inspection with respect to a given reference point of the container. Means are also disclosed for initiating and terminating the inspection process dependent upon the translational position of the container with respect to the inspection system.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for automatically inspecting bottled goods for foreign matter as the bottles pass through bottling machinery. The inspection procedure ignores false indications of foreign matter by comparing results of a plurality of coincidentally performed inspections.