What is claimed to be the world’s first baby leaf harvester with automatic sorting capabilities has been demonstrated in a field of spinach grown by Toro Verde near Cartagena in Spain.

The Bellavista harvester is a joint venture between Parma-based Raytec Vision, specialists in automatic and visual sorting equipment, and new Italian company Gemini SRL. According to the manufacturers Bellavista can sort foreign bodies directly in the field thanks to a Near Infrared (NIR) vision system and chlorophyll analysis. This aspect is performed by Raytec Vision’s Rayfly optical sorting technology which is capable of preventing sunlight interference with the vision analysis.

More than 15 different companies attended the demonstration of the machine which uses a 75 hp EPA-certified engine, coupled to a four-wheel drive system with intelligent traction control. Reports suggest that particular attention has been paid to operator efficiency with comfortable seating, positioned strategically to provide clear and uninterrupted view of the harvesting operations and a large colour touch screen monitor.

“Bellavista is not only synonymous with quality, efficiency and safety, it is also distinguished by a particular attention to comfort,” commented Marcos Pincu of Raytec. “Driving is also in a strategic position to control all the harvesting operations, ensuring a complete visual on the cutting area, on the conveyor, the beater as well as the unloading area.”

Photo Credit: YouTube / Raytec Vision

The post Baby leaf harvesting and sorting machine unveiled appeared first on Hort News 14 March 2018.