The agricultural landscape is witnessing a significant technological advancement with the rise of optical sorting machines, and at the forefront of this innovation is the Downs CropVision. This state-of-the-art machine, initially designed for potatoes, has recently expanded its capabilities to include onions, revolutionizing the way these crops are sorted and processed.
The editorial team of Dutch agricultural magazine Boerderij had the opportunity to observe the Downs CropVision in action at V.O.F. Van Bergeijk in Lelystad, where it has been operational for two years. The machine’s unique selling point lies in its ability to process field-harvested crops at a capacity that can generally keep up with a harvester. This is a game-changer for farmers, as it allows for a more efficient and streamlined harvesting process.
The CropVision operates by using camera technology to examine and evaluate each onion or potato, as well as detecting and separating stones and clumps. The system sorts objects based on appearance, not weight or size, and categorizes them into three groups: tare (stones and clumps), defective product, and net product. This level of precision is achieved through intelligent software linked to an ultra-fast computer, which analyses images captured from all angles as the product rotates on a roller bed. The system’s ability to handle soil-covered crops is a significant advantage, as it ensures a continuous and efficient sorting process.
One of the most impressive aspects of the CropVision is its rapid learning capability. The more examples the system processes, the better it becomes at distinguishing clean onions or potatoes from other objects. This continuous improvement is driven by artificial intelligence (AI), which enhances the system’s algorithms over time. This means that the more the CropVision is used, the more effective it becomes at identifying and sorting products.
The implications of this technology for the agricultural sector are substantial. The CropVision can significantly reduce the need for manual inspection, leading to considerable labour savings. It is suitable for both coarse pre-sorting during intake and final sorting, making it a versatile tool for farmers. The user has a significant influence on the outcome, as they can define the quality parameters and adjust sorting sensitivity according to their specific needs. For example, when sorting onions for skin blemishes, the user can set the acceptable threshold for discoloration size.
The machine’s capacity is determined by its working width, with Downs currently offering the CropVision in widths of 1.10, 2.40, and 2.80 meters. The 2.40-meter model can theoretically handle up to 12,000 objects per minute, translating to a significant output of clean product per hour. In practice, the CropVision has proven capable of keeping pace with a harvester without significantly limiting intake capacity.
Downs, the company behind the CropVision, is a relatively unknown entity in the Netherlands but is the oldest mechanization company in the Western European potato sector. Founded in 1860 by blacksmith Edward Walter Downs, the company has a rich history of innovation in the potato cultivation industry. Today, Downs is based in Sainte-Marie-Cappel, northern France, and is fully owned and managed by the Dubrulle family.
The CropVision is not the only optical sorting machine on the market, with alternatives available from companies such as Tomra, Samro, Flikweert, Tolsma-Grisnich, Wevano, Dewulf, and Raytec Vision. However, the CropVision’s ability to process field-harvested crops and its high capacity set it apart from the competition.
The introduction of the CropVision marks a significant step forward in the agricultural industry, offering farmers a more efficient and effective way to sort and process their crops. As the technology continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see even more innovative solutions emerging from Downs and other companies in the sector. While the initial investment may be considerable, the long-term benefits in terms of labour savings and improved efficiency make the CropVision a compelling option for farmers looking to stay ahead of the curve.