To efficiently weigh, sort and pack chicory in a system, Crux Agribotics developed a new SortiPack®. Typically, that process is currently done by many human hands and is prone to too much give-away weight. SortiPack assesses the individual chicory with computer vision and through weighing. The software algorithms create the ideal combination of the right number of products for a (flow-pack) package.
As chicory is a very fragile product, Crux Agribotics developed a specific chicory gripper. This ensures that the chicory does not suffer any internal or external damage. The gripper is also smart. Depending on the location of the chicory and the approach of the robot, it determines whether the gripper approaches it from the left or the right. The packing of the chicory on the conveyor belt (infeed to the flowpacker) is also done in a very careful and product-friendly way.
The SortiPack Chicory saves on labor costs, which is an increasing challenge for growers and cooperatives. Increasing labour cost and, more often, a shortage of (good) labour are becoming an increasing challenged for the industry. Besides labor savings, the SortiPack offers the advantage of reduced give-away weight (the excess weight of chicory per package).
The SortiPack Chicory can weigh, sort and pack up to 3000 chicory per robot per hour. With an average head weight of 125 grams, this corresponds to 375 kg per hour. If more robots are used, this results in a higher capacity and vice versa.
Source: cruxagribotics.com