The compact, fully automated machine uses artificial intelligence and three-camera system to detect, rotate and align fruit pieces for optimal visual impact, setting new standards for packaging efficiency
Italian post-harvest process and packaging specialist Sorma Group premiered its new P&P-800 pick and pack system at Fruit Attraction in Madrid last week.
According to the group, the machine “sets the standards for efficiency, uniformity, and visual quality when it comes to fruit packaging”.
Described as a compact, smart, and completely automated machine, P&P-800 was designed and manufactured by the research and development department Sorma Ibérica, the Spanish subsidiary of Sorma Group.
“The P&P-800 provides the perfect blend of automation, precision and delicacy,” it outlined.
“The machine grasps either loose or already packed fruit from boxes, by full automation, and places each piece into individual pockets facing the same direction for pronounced visual impact.”
Due to the state-of-the-art smart camera system, each piece of fruit is detected, rotated, and aligned in real time and to ensure its best side on display.
One camera monitors the incoming flow, a second controls rotation and the third, a 3D camera, guarantees precise placement, Sorma said.
”The P&P-800 is driven by the software-based Linux operating system and enhanced by Sormatech-AI, artificial intelligence developed by Sorma Group,” the company continued.
”This enables the machine to recognise the type of fruit, the pocket size and the box configuration thus ensuring a flexible, and fast process with little to no manual intervention required.”
The system is controlled by a belt with an integrated encoder which includes a compact electrical panel and a modern 15.6-inch touchscreen monitor.
“With the P&P-800, we set out to respond to the fruit and vegetable industry’s demand for a system combining automation, precision and flexibility,” noted Daniele Severi, director of the technology division at Sorma Ibérica.
“It’s the outcome of an entirely in-house research and development process, through which we’ve created a competitive solution tailored to our customers’ specific needs.”
The new machine is already available on the international market.
“With this product, Sorma Group reaffirms its commitment to innovation and to supporting its customers,” Severi added.
“The technology it’s now introducing to the fruit and vegetable sector is sure to mark a major milestone in fresh fruit packaging.”
