Marel introduces the ITM, a new intelligent trimming machine that automatically trims salmon fillets into pre-defined shapes.
Marel introduces the ITM, a new intelligent trimming machine that automatically trims salmon fillets into pre-defined shapes.
The ITM uses an advanced vision system that ensures a high precision cut, making the entire process - from measuring to trimming – efficient and productive.
Designed to trim salmon fillets automatically, the Marel ITM, Intelligent Trimming Machine is the ideal solution for high-value trimming of fillets into pre-defined shapes. The ITM uses an advanced vision system that ensures a high precision cut, making the entire process - from measuring to trimming – efficient and productive.
The unit's Marel M3000 graphical colour controller makes it easy for the operator to define trimming patterns and monitor the process. The machine trims up to 40 fillets per minute delivering up to 2% better yields than manual trimming.
Intelligent pattern definition
After salmon is filleted on a filleting machine, they move onto the ITM where they are fed into the machine skin down. The double lane ITM automatically evaluates each fillet for the optimal trimming pattern. The colour vision unit then grades the fillets according to colour and calculates the trim configuration for each individual fillet.
The ITM detects colour and volume, as well as cutting mistakes from filleting machines. A special light is used to illuminate the different colours of the fillet and an image of the fillet is then scanned into the system. The colour analysis is used to determine the colour category of the fillet according to the standard Roche Scale.
The unit detects the outlines of the fillet, determines the trim category and then selects a trimming profile that fits the parameters, all in a fraction of a second. The ITM can also detect flaws like melanin blotches or tears in the fillets.
The ITM is controlled by the M3000 control terminal, that displays the trim and colour grade of each fillet. MPS Production Software is used to collect trimming data. The software stores summarized long-term information about the colour, weight, length, and type of pieces and portions. Reports on all aspects of production are available.