BigApple

Sponsored by: Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture (BMEL)

Project Manager: Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt e.V. (DLR)

Duration: 07/2016 – 09/2019

Consortium: Kompetenzentrum Obstbau-Bodensee, Technische Universität Chemnitz, Cubert GmbH, Inovel Systeme AG, Salem-Frucht Großmarkt GmbH

The BigApple project, funded by the German Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture, aims to improve the storage and quality control of fruit, particularly apples, using hyperspectral measurements and data-driven modeling.

1. Contribution to policy goals:
   • Hyperspectral measurements by Cubert GmbH provided crucial data for fruit storage forecasting, stored in a database by Inovel Systeme AG and used by TU Chemnitz for modeling and classification.
   • These insights helped optimize energy consumption and reduce CO₂ emissions during storage, enhancing efficiency throughout the process.
   • Large datasets (e.g., from the Competence Center for Fruit Growing-Bodensee) were collected to improve control and monitoring of harvest and storage processes.
2. Scientific and technical results:
   • A classifier was integrated into Cubert’s software, enabling real-time classifications.
   • A channel identification system was developed for the intended application.
   • A specialized camera was designed to differentiate apples from leaves using hyperspectral data accurately. While this technology couldn’t be applied to other data sets as intended, it paved the way for light-field technology. This approach forms the foundation of Cubert’s current hyperspectral camera systems, which are central to their business. By focusing on forward-thinking technologies, the project significantly contributed to innovation and laid the groundwork for Cubert’s leadership in this field.

In summary, the project not only optimized storage processes but also played a key role in Cubert’s technological development by refining and advancing its core technologies.