Gearbox

‘Digital inspector’ that combines vision technology with artificial intelligence

Westland-based Gearbox Innovations has developed a ‘digital inspector’ (a grading robot) that combines vision technology with artificial intelligence to grade up to 100% of fruit and vegetables for quality

Gearbox Innovations knew it could increase added value for all links in the supply chain by improving the reliability, consistency and speed of the quality control and grading process compared to current manual inspections. The company therefore developed the GearVision Inspector, a stand-alone smart grading robot that delivers a thorough quality analysis, and the GearVision Sorter, an in-line solution that quickly sorts the produce according to quality. These two machines combine vision technology with artificial intelligence, allowing for swifter and more accurate grading and sorting of fresh fruit and vegetables. This provides the complete supply chain – from breeder to packaging company – with a futureproof approach to quality control tailored to specific needs and requirements. A comprehensive report provides actionable insights on how to further optimise cultivation. For fruit and vegetables, a transition towards fully automated sorting and packaging lies within reach thanks to the digitisation of the grading process.