TECHNOLOGY developed in the region could change the global cosmetics industry.

APS Vision, in Sunderland, has created a machine that can check the packaging on cosmetics products quicker than a human inspector.

The system, named Genesius, after the patron saint of printers, makes it easier for companies to ensure they meet the laws governing cosmetics packaging.

Adam Brown, who co-owns the company with Paul Hardy, said: "In the cosmetics industry, it is essential that all information on packaging is correct to comply with strict legislation.

"Consumers must be able to see exactly how long a product will last as well as precisely what it contains in case they have an allergy.

"A simple spelling mistake can lead to massive product recalls and financial penalties."

Genesius uses advanced imaging technology to scan cosmetics bottles by rotating the packaging on a roller and photographing printed information. Images are compared with a digital master. The camera is so precise it can detect faults smaller than 0.1mm. The system also has a stand-alone camera for unusually-shaped packaging and a flatbed scanner for labels.

Mr Brown, 32, from Washington, Wearside, and Mr Hardy, 30, from Newcastle, set up the company in 1999 when they were made redundant.

It is based at the North-East Business and Innovation Centre (BIC) in Sunderland.

The pair developed the machine with help from the BIC's Product and Process Development Unit (PPDU).

Jim Howstan, PPDU engineer, said: "Our main challenge was scanning such unusual shapes, particularly cylinders, but we built a prototype and tested our ideas until we came up with the finished version.

"We were thrilled to get involved in this project as existing machines can only read flat packaging, so I'm sure this will make a huge difference in the cosmetics industry globally."