Sunkist® CAB-QP3 Grading Technology

The Sunkist® CAB-QP3 Grading Unit is a high speed, high-resolution electro-mechanical computer vision system. The computer vision system analyzes the complete surface of the fresh citrus fruit for a variety of quality attributes. These attributes include:

• Blemish (Defect) - light, medium, dark & total scar
• Color - average color, darkest green, or lightest color, peak color, variegation
• Size - average diameter, characteristic diameter or volume
• Shape - Aspect ratio and roundness
• Stem and Blossom
• Weight - 4- point weighing

All functions use nominal values for setting break points that are determined by running test fruit and adjusting these values accordingly.

Blemish, color and Size Electro-Mechanical Grader- (CAB-QP3)

CAB-QP3 Optics in Operation

• The mechanical carrier is a patented spool / lifter / movable solenoid assembly unit that operates at a constant speed of 10 pockets per second per lane.
• Multiple 2,4, 6 or 8 lane frames, up to 24 lanes, can be integrated and programmed to perform the functions of a single machine.
• The system utilizes a Microsoft Windows® platform for a fast/friendly operator interface, and elaborate reporting capabilities with over 20 reports to choose from.
• Technical support utilizing PC Anywhere® software, which allows for service support via modem line.
• Custom reports using standard Crystal Reports® data dictionary.
• Sales Office PC possibility for exporting of data in Excel format.
• Each lane is integrated with the multiple lane system.
• Fruit can be sorted by Blemish, Color, Size, Variegation, and Long-Stem.
• This information is transmitted to a host computer that allows an operator to interface with the system.
• The operator chooses the various grading values to determine distribution of fruit on the multiple fruit drop points.

CAB-QP3 Mechanical System

• CAB-QP3 Computer Interface

  Each CAB-QP3 Grading System consists of 4 or 6 lane modules up to a maximum of 4 per operating system.
• CAB weight carrier system features 4-point weighing for maximum accuracy and choice of 2.5” 3.75” and 5” spool pitch.
• The minimum system length is 27' 10" which has capability for up to 5 drop points.
• The system can be extended with 45",90" or 110" L. sections.
• Each module has an orienter motor and a main drive motor.
• Mitsubishi® A.C. inverters and programmer unit for main drive and orienter motors.
• PLC panel assembly with warning alarm and controls.

CAB-QP3 Optical System

• CAB-QP3 Optics Assembly

  The grading system is run by a PC with monitor, keyboard, mouse and printer.
• Optical housing compete with camera assemblies and lift/tilt assembly.
• Commercially developed task specific cameras and lighting assemblies for optimum grading capabilities.
• Power Saving Function, which utilizes state of the art technology illumination for fruit detection.

CAB-QP3 Installation Requirements

• Access catwalks around and between the CAB-QP3 modules.
• All feed conveyor, pullout conveyors, recirculation conveyors, fruit rail extensions, and lane dividers.
• All support hardware consisting of a 4" sq. tubing frame and legs for each module.
• Electrical control panel and field wiring to power CAB-QP3 modules.
• Power requirements - 3 phase power for motors, and power for PLC panel.

Section Overview