With the FOCUS, Optimum had the widest optical belt sorter on the market. Over the past three years, this FOCUS product line has systematically evolved and improved. The result is a radical new belt sorter with some unique features for an even more accurate sorting. Meet the NOVUS.
The base frame of the NOVUS has been thoroughly redesigned to comply with the strictest hygiene standards and the most recent machine guidelines. Moreover, it’s modular, so that the NOVUS can be easily configured according to the needs of the user and also, and this is new, it can be expanded with the same flexibility after installation.
The NOVUS is equipped with metal detection technology, making it the only machine on the market that combines three sorting technologies. The M-TEC module built into the frame detects and removes tiny stainless steel, ferrous and non-ferrous metal particles that the cameras and lasers might possibly not detect. The module is made up of several smaller coils, which means that its detection sensitivity is greater than that of traditional metal detectors.
The NOVUS is equipped with the advanced high-resolution cameras (RGB, IRGB, InGaAs or IR) known from the FOCUS, but the camera mounting has been improved and the lenses optimized. Furthermore, the unique 5/6 configuration for the sorting of diced potatoes and other tuberous vegetables is still available. New however, is the S-TEC module that also inspects the bottom of the product, which is particularly interesting for dry products such as nuts and confectionery.
To further increase its sorting accuracy, the NOVUS can be equipped with the latest generation laser scanner as was developed for the VENTUS, and this can be used for a scanning width of 1800 mm without sacrificing performance. For example, the NOVUS has an impressive laser scanning speed of up to 4000 scans per second, resulting in an optical resolution of 0.3 mm, the highest resolution of any laser sorter on the market.
The ejection module was also overhauled. New ejection valves have been introduced that can switch faster and have a longer life. At least as important: Optimum uses standardized valves, which are much cheaper in terms of repair and maintenance.
As with the FOCUS, the various camera and laser signals from the NOVUS are processed simultaneously, so that defects and foreign objects are detected more accurately and the risk of erroneous rejections is reduced. What’s new is that its advanced sorting software uses artificial intelligence: it learns to identify defects on the basis of images of the products passing through the machine. During the sorting process, the algorithm autonomously decides which products are removed. If your operators still detect errors, they can easily adjust the algorithm.
The NOVUS uses the CUMULUS software platform for its operating and sorting software. But more importantly: from now on, all Optimum sorting machines use this platform. That makes integration so easy.
In due course, the NOVUS will replace the FOCUS. However, those who already have a FOCUS can easily upgrade it with several of the new features: the improved camera mounting and new lenses, the latest generation of laser detection technology, the renewed ejection module and the advanced CUMULUS software with artificial intelligence. High-frequency fluorescent lighting can be replaced by LED.
The NOVUS is available in various widths from 600 to 2400 mm. The NOVUS 1200 and NOVUS 1800 are currently being rolled out. The NOVUS 2400 and NOVUS 600 will be available in a second and third phase.