Optimising food processing - Enhancing efficiency and adaptability

This course offers a comprehensive exploration of cutting-edge sensor technologies and their application in food processing. Participants will:

• understand the latest sensor technologies and their role in enhancing operational efficiency and adaptability;
• learn to select and implement sensor systems that align with specific production needs and cost considerations;
• develop skills to integrate sensor data with AI-driven analytics for informed decision-making and process optimization;
• recognise how improved efficiency and adaptability contribute to sustainable practices as a natural outcome.

1. State-of-the-art overview of sensor technology in food processing

Ensuring product quality is a top priority in the food industry and advances in sensor technology are enabling faster, more reliable and non-invasive quality assessment methods. In this session you will gain a broad yet practical overview of sensing technologies relevant to food processing and quality control. We will begin with fundamental sensing principles and then explore more recent technologies that can rapidly assess key quality attributes such as composition, freshness, contamination, and texture. Through real-world examples and industry case studies, we will discuss the strengths and limitations of different sensor systems and their suitability for various food applications. To conclude, we will introduce a technology-application matrix, a practical decision-making tool to help food companies identify the most effective sensor solutions for their specific challenges.

Lecturers:

• Jonas Lannoo, Senior Researcher IoT, Mechatronics and Robotics, Vives University of Applied Sciences
• Bart De Ketelaere, Research Manager, MeBioS, KU Leuven

2. System integration & data infrastructure

Collecting data in rural and harsh environments has quite some challenges. Mostly, data captured at sensors have to use non-traditional means of communication to be collected at the server, where analysis is done. In this session, you will learn how to define data, how to format it and how to send it over a very constrained environment and limited bandwidth to the server. We will discuss some common wireless communication methods and give insight into their advantages and disadvantages. Further, we will dive into the concept of edge computing, where data is analysed at the edge using embedded computing. We will conclude with the contemporary trend of machine learning at the edge and how complex analysis can be done at battery-powered constrained devices.

Lecturer: Hans Hallez, Associate Professor, DistriNet, KU Leuven

Case study: Data infrastructure for AI-robotics and inspection - Captic

3. Data analysis techniques

In this session, we will delve into the complex task of transforming raw data into meaningful information, which must be delivered to the right user at the right moment. This phase of data analysis and processing presents its own set of challenges. Often, decisions need to be made swiftly in real-time during production processes, requiring the use of sophisticated, real-time AI solutions that can process data quickly and accurately. Despite these technological hurdles, when effectively implemented, sensors offer substantial advantages by improving quality, safety, and efficiency. Techniques for data analysis, including artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, deep learning, and decision-making processes, are essential for extracting insights from sensor technology.

Lecturer: Mathias Verbeke, Assistant Professor in Artificial Intelligence for Industry, KU Leuven

Case studies:

• Hyperspectral imaging applications and data science in food processing - Bert Callens, ILVO
• Sound-based evaluation of food texture and crispness - Michaël Verlinden, Vives University of Applied Sciences