Optical sorting machines efficiently measured and designed with HiCAD

Flikweert Vision specialises in automating sorting processes in the agri-food sector by integrating specialised equipment into the existing sorting line, such as the QualityGrader or Divider. As each sorting line is unique, Flikweert Vision uses HiCAD software in combination with a 3D scanner for seamless integration.

Flikweert Vision is a manufacturer of so-called optical sorting machines. "Using advanced camera technology and artificial intelligence, we are able to sort potatoes and onions, for example, but also remove product foreign objects such as stones and clods from the production process," says managing director Stefan Flikweert. He started the company together with his brother and nephew three years ago and now works with more than 20 colleagues on new initiatives every day. "Our concept is catching on and saves the farmer an awful lot of time and inconvenience."

Point cloud module in HiCAD

An existing sorting line in the agri-food sector is usually made up of different components from different machine manufacturers, Stefan knows. "Integrating our machine into this is quite a challenge. For instance, nine out of ten customers do not have drawings of the existing sorting line. And if there are any drawings of it, they are often out of date. So it comes down to us recording and measuring the existing situation. Meanwhile, we no longer do this manually with a tape measure, photo camera and notepad, but use a 3D scanner. In 15 minutes, the existing situation is completely digitally mapped. This information is read into HiCAD via the pointcloud module, which means that in no time we have a very good picture of what the barn and the existing sorting line look like. It saves an awful lot of time and prevents errors."

In 15 minutes, the existing situation is completely digitally mapped. This information is read into HiCAD via the pointcloud module,, 

Stefan does acknowledge that the critical points and transitions still need to be measured in detail. "In the point cloud there are often some smaller differences, especially if the light leaves something to be desired in the room to be scanned. But the 'rough work' can be mapped perfectly. In fact, we no longer do anything else. Because the time involved is so small, we even scan during an orientation meeting. Should it become an order, we can immediately make a good estimate of the installation." Stefan is also very pleased with the steel and sheet metal module in HiCAD. "It works fine. In any case, HiCAD has many modules tailored to our kind of companies, this works pleasantly and more efficiently."