Millitec from Derbyshire, known for expertise in food production automation, has collaborated with AI specialists at Loughborough University to develop a sandwich-making robot with embedded AI technology. Our groundbreaking work has not only garnered recognition with industry awards but also has the potential to redefine the landscape of food manufacturing.
A COLLABORATIVE ENDEAVOUR
The objective? To empower AI robots to differentiate between various food items and efficiently assemble sandwiches in real-world factory environments.
ADDRESSING INDUSTRY CHALLENGES
The objective? To empower AI robots to differentiate between various food items and efficiently assemble sandwiches in real-world factory environments.
Their current sandwich-making machines have helped simplify production processes. However, their limited ability to distinguish between ingredients has been a hindrance. This is where the collaboration with Loughborough University comes in.
ADVANCING FOOD PRODUCTION ROBOTICS
The team led by Dr. Li is developing machine vision and embedded AI technology for robot manipulators. The aim is to enable robots to recognise food items, detect their location and orientation, and assemble ingredients for sandwiches precisely and efficiently.
But it doesn't stop there. The robots are not only able to identify errors on production conveyors but also fix them, ensuring quality and consistency in food production.
A GAME-CHANGER IN THE MAKING
This collaboration results from the innovative "i-Gene" delta robot, equipped with intelligent vision systems that allow it to "see" and interact with ingredients in real time. The first i-Gene robot was deployed in a major sandwich-making factory in the UK in October 2020, where it now produces an astounding 750,000 sandwiches daily.
This groundbreaking technology is transforming the food production industry by addressing labour shortages and improving efficiency. It not only provides Millitec with a strategic advantage but also opens doors to new markets, such as North America.
A BRIGHT FUTURE FOR FOOD MANUFACTURING
The partnership has impacted more than food manufacturing. It has also enriched Loughborough University's research portfolio and exploration of related areas like vertical farming and sustainable agriculture.
Moreover, it has created opportunities for students to engage in high-quality research, placements, and employment in a rapidly evolving industry. The KTP (Knowledge Transfer Partnership) Associate, Dr. Mohamad Saada, who played a key role in the project, is now a Lecturer in Computer Science at Loughborough, imparting knowledge to the next generation.
The partnership between Millitec Food Systems and Loughborough University is a testament to what can be achieved when expertise and innovation join forces. As they continue to push the boundaries of technology, the future of food production looks brighter than ever.
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