Annually, the global consumption of oranges reaches approximately 47 million tons, necessitating efficient processing methods to categorize them by sweetness and flavor. Traditionally, a selection of oranges undergoes juicing and subsequent laboratory analysis using sophisticated equipment to determine their suitability for various products, a method both costly and time-consuming. In pursuit of expedited processes, the industry is turning to multispectral cameras, capable of capturing light across multiple wavelengths, as a viable solution.
An industry case study by Headwall Photonics involved scanning Hamlin oranges with a hyperspectral system that visualizes fruit using hundreds of wavelengths. Following scanning, the oranges were juiced to measure their Brix value, a traditional method of assessing sugar content. The study found a near-perfect correlation between the sugar content estimated by the hyperspectral model and that determined by conventional means, validating the efficacy of this technology for industrial application. This method allows for the rapid scanning of large quantities of oranges, significantly enhancing efficiency while reducing costs and labor.
Source: zmescience.com