The inspection of fruit and vegetables with 3D image processing is an advanced technology used in the food industry for quality assurance, sorting and inspection. It makes it possible to inspect products for external and internal defects by capturing and analysing precise spatial data.
With the EyeVision 3D software and, for example, the compact Saturn 3D sensor, fruit and vegetables can be quickly and effectively inspected for:
- Shape and size: EyeVision 3D captures the exact shape and size of fruit and vegetables. This is useful for sorting products that do not meet the standards (e.g. too small or deformed).
- Volume calculation: By capturing the 3D geometry, the volume of a product can be calculated, which is beneficial for packaging and transport.
- External defects: 3D analysis can detect surface irregularities that indicate pests, bruises or skin cracks.
- Sorting and classification: Fruit and vegetables can be sorted automatically based on predefined parameters such as ripeness, size or surface structure. This is faster and more precise than with conventional, purely two-dimensional systems.
EyeVision 3D enables complete automation of the inspection process. It minimises human intervention, increases throughput and guarantees consistently high quality. The EyeVision software also offers the option of using hyperspectral image processing to detect internal defects such as rot, cavities or discolouration
Possible application examples are
- Tomato and apple sorting: Distinguishing ripe from unripe or damaged fruit based on size, shape and external defects with EyeVision 3D.
- Potato and onion inspection: 3D image processing is used here to sort out deformed or damaged products.
- Avocados and mangoes: These fruits are inspected for ripeness and potential internal defects, which can be achieved with 3D and additional sensory technologies such as hyperspectral analysis.