At this year’s GreenTech Amsterdam, Sormac, the fresh produce processing specialist, showcased two cutting-edge technologies designed to advance automation and precision in controlled environment agriculture (CEA): the CEA Harvester CH-30 and OptiPro, an AI-powered visual inspection system.
CEA Harvester CH-30: Smart, Gentle, and Efficient Harvesting
The CEA Harvester CH-30 is an automated solution designed for harvesting leafy greens grown in hydroponic channels up to 300 mm wide, ideal for greenhouse and vertical farming. It gently processes the crops using a blower to lift the leaves and dual adjustable blades for clean cutting without damaging the product. With a capacity to handle up to 80 channels of 12.6 meters each, the CH-30 combines precision and efficiency with a user-friendly design, offering easy integration, straightforward maintenance, and high-quality results suitable for both processing and retail.
OptiPro: AI-Powered Quality Control for Modern Farming
Complementing the CH-30 is Opti Pro, an intelligent visual control system that uses high-resolution cameras and deep learning technology to automate quality monitoring during harvesting. It continuously evaluates each planting channel against predefined standards, checking alignment, condition, and orientation in real time. When needed, it adjusts system settings automatically to maintain a smooth and accurate process. By reducing manual labor and enhancing consistency, OptiPro increases reliability and makes large-scale, automated production in controlled environments more efficient and scalable.
Pictured
Lars Heuvelmans (left) and Fabiaan Hendricks, Area Sales Managers, standing in front of the OptiPro system.