Optyx® sorters designed specifically for packers of fresh sweet cherries including Bing, Chelan, Skeena and other varieties. The sorter uses color cameras and lasers to inspect each cherry’s size, shape, color, and structural properties. The system automatically removes limb, bark, rocks, and fruit with defects from the production line. The unit eliminates the need for hand sorters to touch and roll the fruit, which slows inspection and can damage good fruit. The unit includes a water spreader and dewatering belt to deliver product to the sorter. As product passes through the sorter, it is inspected from the top while still on the conveyor belt. Product is then launched off the end of the Optyx belt for in-air viewing from the bottom. Using proprietary image processing technology designed specifically for cherries, the sorter quickly analyses the images, comparing each object to previously defined accept/reject standards. When foreign material or a defective cherry is identified, the system activates the ejector system, which is made up of a series of air jets that span the width of the system. While still air-borne, the air jets pinpoint the object to reject and remove it from the product stream. Good cherries are gently discharged from the sorter into a water flume.
Key Technology, Inc., www.key.net
