Smaller packinghouses can benefit from a higher level of automation

In 2019 Sinclair introduced innovative EcoLabel®, food-safe, certified compostable fresh produce label. Just recently the company offered a game changer solution for smaller packinghouses. Fructidor has talked with Duncan Jones, Senior Marketing Manager, about how new solution was created and what are the advantages.

Mr. Jones shares that all innovations and technology improvements in Sinclair come from customer needs. The company will continue to be customer oriented. Vision Recognition System (VRS) previously has been available only on the Sinclair PL4 high-throughput labeler, which can label up to 2,700 trays per hour. Duncan comments that this is a large labeling machine with a high volume and it is not suitable for all packinghouse requirements. Smaller packhouses were also interested in this solution. The latest generation of VRS can be integrated with Compact Pattern Labeler™ (CPL). “This is the solution for smaller packing houses. They can now have VRS as an option,” he explains. “CPL with VRS offers a higher level of automation for smaller packhouses and more advanced and flexible tray labeling options.” New solution can label up to 2,000 trays per hour. Check 2 min video how it works in reality.

Vision Recognition System increases labeling accuracy, it intelligently locates the produce item and the label is applied in the optimal position. The technology also offers advanced labeling options that allow more flexibility in how packinghouses can label. Another benefit is a tray-masking function that enables the user to choose which produce items need to be labeled inside a tray. VRS can be used for any fruit shape. Duncan Jones adds: “VRS comes into its own when labeling randomly positioned produce like tomatoes-on-the-vine or pears.”

VRS reduces the need for operator intervention. Different tray patterns can be used on a single packing line. The technology automatically recognised each different pattern (size and fruit layout).

The Sinclair Vision Recognition system uses 3D imaging, the latest imaging technology, to create a depth map of the tray passing under its camera. This map is used to detect all items in the tray. 3D imaging is not affected by colour, contrary to its 2D imaging predecessor. As a result, the system has the ability to work with produce, trays, inners, and boxes of any color and at any height up to 300 mm.

Duncan Jones comments that feedbacks from customers has been positive with a number of initial orders and successful installations. Despite a challenging year due to the pandemic Sinclair continues to have positive sales in more than 50 countries globally.

For more information check company’s website.