MAF RODA boosts efficiency in fruit and vegetable packing houses
MAF RODA boosts efficiency in fruit and vegetable packing houses with AI- and robotics-based automation solutions for key processes
MAF RODA Agrobotic is an engineering multinational with over 100 years of experience, specializing in the development of comprehensive automation solutions for the fresh fruit and vegetable industry.
The company designs technologies that optimize the entire post-harvest production line, ranging from product infeed, treatment, sorting, and sizing to packing and palletizing. It also incorporates transport systems that automate the final stage of the process, as well as traceability solutions that facilitate the control and monitoring of every phase. Consequently, the company offers turnkey solutions fully tailored to each client's specific needs.
Recognizing the importance of key processes, MAF RODA employs various technologies to optimize each stage. For sorting, it incorporates artificial intelligence to minimize operational errors and assist operators through more precise, automated decision-making. For the final phase of the process, it utilizes robotics to improve efficiency and ensure greater uniformity in the final product.
Artificial intelligence for simpler, more efficient sorting
During the sorting phase, the company employs the Globalscan 7 system; its patented external quality analysis technology provides a complete view of the fruit's surface without causing damage, using high-resolution image capture. This system integrates AI-based models and advanced algorithms to automate fruit sorting according to defined quality parameters, thereby improving defect detection accuracy.
Additionally, it incorporates the new AI-based SMART software, which optimizes system performance, reduces operator workload, and maintains detection accuracy. It offers a more intuitive interface that is easily adaptable to specific needs, resulting in more efficient processes. This software line is available for citrus fruits and avocados.
For small fruit, regarding external grading, the company offers the Cherryscan G7 system for cherries and the Berryscan G7 for blueberries, both providing high precision in defect detection. Both integrate the new QS software—featuring AI—which ensures more intuitive and user-friendly operation thanks to a revamped interface. This user-friendly QS software line is also available for stone fruit.
Robotics to automate the final stage of the post-harvest process
In the final stage, MAF RODA integrates advanced robotic solutions to automate the entire process. Regarding packing, notable systems include Fast Pack—a compact design ideal for limited spaces—which places fruit into pocketed trays using computer vision. This system identifies the optimal side of each piece and orients it according to predefined criteria, ensuring speed, consistency, and great flexibility when switching formats. Meanwhile, Line Pack relies on the coordination of multiple robots to boost production capacity; it analyzes the entire surface of each piece, selects the best commercial orientation, and maintains consistently high throughput rates, thereby replacing manual tasks and ensuring uniform product presentation at high volumes.
Robotics is also applied in Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs)—automated transport systems that do not require an operator to drive them. These units enable the autonomous movement of fruit within the facility under centralized management, improving internal flow efficiency and reducing handling times.
The transition toward highly automated facilities is already a reality in the sector, progressing at a pace dictated by labor availability and market quality demands. In this context, MAF RODA focuses its development on the most critical points of the post-harvest process, utilizing artificial intelligence and robotics to automate key tasks. The objective is clear: to increase efficiency, optimize resources, and boost warehouse productivity while guaranteeing the highest quality for the final product. Discover all these solutions from the MAF RODA Group from October 6 to 8 at Fruit Attraction, at stand 10D21.