Computational optimization of portion control in an automated can-filling process

This paper introduces an innovative packaging system for automated can-filling process of fish. The automated system includes the three stages of pre-filling, filling, and post-filling. An optimal portioning process is used in the pre-filling stage. This involves cutting a batch of fish that are overlapped in a linear orientation where the ordering sequence as well as the head orientation and the degree of overlap between fish are variables of optimization. The optimal portioning method has to meet the requirement of computational speed that is consistent with process speed. Three different models were developed during the process. This paper outlines the model development process that is used to reach the feasible model. A numerical example that uses real data on a batch of salmon, is used to illustrate the advantages of using the present model development process in reaching the feasible optimization model. A comparison between the computational time and the production speed of the models is also included