Key Technology introduces AI-driven foreign matter detection software for sorting systems

Key Technology, a member of the Duravant family of operating companies, introduces AI-driven FM Alert software for their digital sorting systems at Pack Expo booth S-3547.

The tool captures and saves digital images of critical foreign material (FM) contaminants that the sorter detects and rejects from the product stream. Data outputs from the software can be utilized to immediately alert operators and/or signal a downstream device. AI-enhanced FM Alert helps processors better control FM and improve documentation to protect food safety.

As Key’s sorters find and remove all types of FM and a variety of user-specified defects, most users will program FM Alert to act on only specific types of critical FM such as glass, plastic, rubber or wood.

FM Alert automatically captures and saves a digital image that is timestamped and ‘marked’ to point out the critical FM contaminant. To address critical FM findings immediately, data outputs can be utilized by the plant to drive custom behaviors, including notifying operators to the FM event with a visual and/or audible alarm at the sorter or to alert others on and off the production floor. These real-time notifications enable a processor to identify the source of the FM and remedy quality problems quickly. FM Alert data outputs can be utilized to trigger a gate or diverter downstream of the sorter to segregate at-risk product so an operator can confirm the critical FM was physically removed from the product stream.

The new AI-driven FM Alert is an option available on every new Key digital sorter including VERYX, and is available as a field upgrade for all installed Key sorters.