PETKUS OS X — three-way optical sorting for seed corn cobs

The OS X is purpose-built to assess and sort whole cobs early in the process, improving downstream quality and consistency. High-resolution, full-colour cameras analyse each cob for colour deviations, signs of mould or fungal attack, and geometry. Neural-network classifiers convert these signals into rapid, reliable decisions, while a high-speed, gentle flap system executes three-way sorting into good cobs, off-type, and rejects/rehusk. Setup is straightforward: an extra-large touchscreen with intuitive teach-in software lets operators define reject criteria and percentage thresholds in minutes, reducing dependence on manual inspection and cutting required workforce by 75%.

A gentle vibrating feeder aligns, separates, and accelerates cobs for stable imaging, ensuring accurate measurements of length and diameter and consistent, repeatable results shift after shift.

Key advantages

• Three-way sorting: good, off-type, and rejects/rehusk via high-speed flap system.

• Camera intelligence: full-colour defect detection for mould/fungal changes plus geometric length/diameter checks.

• Fast AI decisions: neural-network software delivers quick, dependable classification.

• Simple operation: extra-large touchscreen, intuitive teach-in parameter setting and percentage thresholds.

• Product care: gentle feeder and alignment preserve cob integrity.

• Efficiency: 75% reduction in required workforce through automation.

Process flow

1. Gentle vibrating feed

2. Cob alignment

3. Separation & acceleration

4. Optical inspection & evaluation

5. High-speed flap sorting into three streams