Case

Optical grading of carrots and potatoes

In the ever-evolving food industry, automation and precision are key to ensuring efficiency, reducing waste, and optimizing production. Newtec’s advanced optical grading machines for carrots and potatoes are leading the way in food sorting and quality control. At the core of these machines is Qtechnology’s high-precision RGB camera technology, enabling unparalleled accuracy in detecting size, shape, and surface quality.

By integrating cutting-edge imaging solutions, Qtechnology empowers Newtec to deliver superior sorting capabilities that enhance productivity, minimize waste, and improve food quality standards. This case study explores how Qtechnology’s advanced camera systems are revolutionizing the food industry by driving innovation in optical grading.

 

High-precision optical grading with Qtechnology’s cameras

Newtec’s optical grading machines utilize Qtechnology’s advanced RGB cameras to ensure highly accurate sorting of carrots and potatoes. Each product is carefully analyzed according to the grading parameters set by the operator, allowing for reliable and consistent results. The ability to assess a product’s size, shape, and surface quality in real-time enables food processors to streamline operations and maintain superior product quality.

 

Optical grading for potatoes

Six RGB cameras from Qtechnology scanning potatoes in the camera section of a Celox optical grading machine.

The Newtec Celox-P-DUAL-UHD, specifically designed for potatoes, features an extended camera section equipped with six high-resolution cameras that capture 360-degree images of each potato up to 45 times. This results in millions of images per hour, providing an extensive dataset for advanced sorting algorithms to work with. Qtechnology’s cameras ensure:

  • Complete surface inspection: Every side of each potato is scanned, ensuring no defects go undetected.
  • Precise size and shape detection: Enables accurate grading based on customer requirements.
  • Optimized sorting efficiency: Continuous, real-time processing ensures consistent throughput without human intervention.

By leveraging the power of Qtechnology’s cameras, Newtec’s potato sorting machines deliver outstanding performance with increased efficiency and reliability.

 

Optical grading for carrots

Three RGB cameras from Qtechnology, each covering 120 degress, scanning every carrot in 360 degrees.

Newtec’s optical grading machines for carrots employ a unique 120-degree camera coverage per unit, ensuring precise data capture for size, shape, and surface quality. Qtechnology’s cameras provide superior image resolution, allowing for detailed defect detection and optimal product classification. Key benefits include:

  • Enhanced sorting accuracy: High-resolution imaging captures even the smallest surface defects.
  • Customized sorting parameters: Operators can define specific grading criteria to meet market demands.
  • Improved food safety and quality control: Reduces human error and ensures consistency across batches.

 

Optical grading is no longer just about capturing images

It’s about real-time decision-making. With machine learning algorithms and AI-driven analytics, Newtec’s optical sorting machines continuously improve their grading accuracy. Qtechnology’s cameras play a crucial role by supplying high-quality image data that fuels these algorithms. AI-based sorting enables:

  • Automated defect recognition: Detection of imperfections such as discoloration, bruising, or surface cracks.
  • Continuous performance enhancement: AI adapts to new sorting challenges over time.
  • Reduction in food waste: Optimized grading allows for better utilization of produce that may otherwise be discarded.

 

Reducing food waste

With Qtechnology’s advanced imaging technology, Newtec’s optical sorting machines contribute to sustainability efforts by reducing food waste. The ability to differentiate between minor defects and actual unusable produce allows food processors to maximize usable crop yields while ensuring only the highest quality products reach consumers.

Moreover, real-time data analytics help optimize future harvests by providing valuable insights into raw material quality. This enhances agricultural efficiency and minimizes the environmental footprint associated with food production.

 

Get a quote

Fill out the form and we will get back to you with more information as soon as possible.