Van Doren Sales says an alliance with TechNature aims to bring cutting-edge grading technology to the onion and Brussels sprout packing and processing industries.
The partnership introduces advanced imaging systems, designed to optimize efficiency, enhance produce care and ensure superior grading accuracy, according to a news release. The introduction of the Cam Series of graders will open options for improved efficiencies across the packhouse by working in concert with traditional primary sorting solutions, Van Doren Sales said.
The Cam Series imaging system features multiple camera angles paired with rotating produce to capture comprehensive, 360-degree views of each item as it moves through the inspection process. This system also boasts a unique, space-efficient sorting platform, allowing for seamless integration into nearly any packing environment, the release said.
Van Doren Sales said the Cam Series graders employ diabolo rollers to gently transport produce through the inspection process. Handling between 15 tons per hour for Brussels sprouts and 30 tons per hour for onions, these rollers cradle produce carefully, maintaining consistent presentation to the sensors for accurate imaging, the release said, adding that the rollers’ turning capability ensures a complete view of each piece, leading to more-precise grading results.
The company said the Cam Series graders are equipped with an advanced camera system that uses eight side-view and four top-view cameras, delivering detailed images of every piece of produce. The human-machine interface touchscreen allows users to adjust grading criteria through simple slider controls, ensuring user-friendly operation; a clear and concise dashboard displays sorting data for quick, at-a-glance analysis of grading results, the release said.
