Key Technology will be introducing its AI-driven Sort-to-Grade (STG) software at PACK EXPO Booth S-3547. Advanced AI algorithms allow STG for potato strips to digitally resolve clumps of overlapping product and better identify the individual strips, which maximizes its precision in measuring the length of each strip on the production line. Leveraging this software on a Key digital sorter, such as VERYX, enables potato processors to eliminate traditional mechanical length graders to reduce capital costs, maintenance, and floor space requirements while improving product quality and increasing yields.
STG recognizes and categorizes every surface defect and the length of every individual strip to make each accept/reject decision based on how it will impact the “in-the-bag” grade, as defined by the processor. STG automatically ensures sophisticated length profile requirements are met while removing the least amount of product possible. Length profiles can be changed in seconds via the sorter’s intuitive touchscreen UI.
By digitally monitoring the length of every strip on the line, processors can rely on an AI-driven STG-enabled sorter to analyze the length profile of potato strips immediately prior to packaging and forgo taking physical samples off the line for length analysis using a separate device. Additionally, the length data collected by AI-enhanced STG can be used to improve line performance and/or generate reports that verify the length profile of each batch. With Key’s Discovery suite of software capabilities, the sorter can collect, analyze, and share data to reveal patterns and trends that help control upstream and downstream processes.
The new AI-driven STG is an option available on every new Key digital sorter for potato strips, including VERYX, and is available as a field upgrade for most installed Key potato strip sorters.
