Marel introduces artificial intelligence in poultry processing

Until now, vent cutting has relied heavily on the skill of the operator. However, advancements in technology now make vent cutting more efficient and reliable. A perfect example of this innovative progress, representing a significant leap forward, is Marel’s VC-i, the world’s first intelligent vent cutter using artificial intelligence.

Vent cutting is a crucial step in poultry processing and involves removing the cloaca and correctly positioning it over the back of the broiler carcass. This process must be performed with utmost precision to ensure the highest standards of hygiene and product quality. Until now, vent cutting has relied heavily on the skill of the operator, making it a labor-intensive process with inconsistent performance and quality, certainly with flock changes. Technological advancements such as Marel’s VC-I have made vent cutting more efficient and reliable.

Maintaining high performance during vent cutting is paramount because it is the very first operation inside the carcass in the processing plant, directly following the defeathering process. If this first step isn’t of the highest quality, the subsequent processes and machines in the line cannot correct this. Accurate vent cutting avoids soiling and ensures the quality of the final product. Achieving the right drilling depth to release the cloaca without damaging the intestines requires a delicate balance to prevent contamination and maintain product integrity.

Why does the process need digitalisation?

In today’s fast-paced and demanding poultry processing industry, relying solely on human skills to adjust machines is no longer sufficient. By integrating Pupil’s artificial intelligence, SmartBase internal machine software, advanced mechanical designs, and HMI touchscreen control, the VC-i offers numerous advantages. These include minimised human error, enhanced overall performance, real-time insights, user-friendly operation, and seamless interaction between recipe control and the machine’s mechanical components. This digital transformation brings consistency, precision, and efficiency to the vent-cutting process.