Automated Foodstuff Singulation via Liquid Jets and AI
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current food processing systems require significant manual labor and are prone to human error in separating and orienting foodstuff products, such as fish fillets, which can lead to productivity downtimes and damage, and are not adaptable for various types of foodstuff, necessitating improvements in automation for efficient post-processing.
Innovation Solution
A singulation system utilizing a tank with liquid jets and a lifting device with a grid plate, combined with machine vision technology and AI models, to separate and orient foodstuff products by leveraging buoyancy and thrust forces, and employing deep learning models for accurate image recognition and manipulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual labor is used for separating and orienting foodstuff products, then flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but labor demands increase and human error occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs liquid jets (hydraulic principle) to propel and separate foodstuff units. The liquid stream acts as a contactless actuator that can individually manipulate each foodstuff unit based on its position detected by the machine vision system, enabling automated separation without complex mechanical grippers or conveyors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical separation systems (conveyors, grippers, sorters) with a liquid-based propulsion system controlled by machine vision and AI. This substitution reduces mechanical complexity while enabling flexible, adaptive automation through software-controlled liquid jet positioning and timing.
2Productivity
If traditional processing systems are used, then system simplicity is maintained, but productivity decreases and downtimes increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous processing by maintaining a steady flow of liquid through the system while foodstuff units are continuously introduced, separated, and oriented. The liquid stream operates continuously rather than in discrete cycles, eliminating idle times between processing batches and maintaining constant productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The machine vision system with AI automatically detects, tracks, and controls the liquid jets without human intervention. The system self-regulates by continuously monitoring foodstuff unit positions and adjusting liquid jet activation in real-time, eliminating downtime associated with manual operation and decision-making.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual separation methods are used, then adaptability to different foodstuff types is maintained, but labor costs and human error increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves adaptability by dynamically adjusting parameters of the liquid jet system (flow rate, pressure, jet position, activation timing) based on AI analysis of foodstuff unit characteristics. The machine vision system detects variations in foodstuff size, shape, and position, and the AI controller modifies liquid jet parameters in real-time to accommodate different foodstuff types without mechanical reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a closed-loop feedback system where the machine vision system continuously monitors foodstuff unit positions and orientations, the AI processes this information to determine optimal separation strategies, and the liquid jet system executes adjustments based on this feedback. This continuous feedback loop ensures high reliability by automatically correcting deviations and adapting to variations in foodstuff characteristics.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system automates the separation and orientation of foodstuff products with reduced labor demands, minimizing damage and improving processing efficiency across various types of foodstuff, while maintaining product quality and reducing manual intervention.
Implementation Method 1
temporarily engaging a central rotary liquid jet to produce a horizontal stream into the tank... selectively engaging and disengaging sidewall liquid jets to generate under-liquid streams in the liquid
Implementation Method 2
utilizing buoyant force and thrust force properties of the liquid in the tank to separate and manipulate the orientation of the batch of foodstuff
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for separating and orienting foodstuff using a tank of liquid, mechanical parts, machine vision, and artificial intelligence (AI) modeling. The system employs a tank comprising liquid, strategically placed liquid jets, and a lifting device with a grid plate. Foodstuff batches enter the tank. The submerged grid plate receives the foodstuff, and the liquid jets manipulate them inside the tank. Buoyancy and strategically directed liquid flow separate and orient the individual food items. A mechanical arm equipped with a gripper and other mechanical apparatus manipulates and transports the foodstuff outside the tank. AI models trained on image data depicting the singulation process are used. The AI model guides the system to achieve optimal separation and orientation of the foodstuff, resulting in individually separated and oriented foodstuff units.