System and Method for Analyzing Properties of Meat Using Multispectral Imaging

Authors

Jeyamkondan Subbiah, Lincoln, NE
Chris Richard Calkins, Lincoln, NEFollow
Ashok Kumor Samal, Lincoln, NEFollow
Govindarajan Konda Naganathan, Lincoln, NE

Date of this Version

2014

Citation

Patent No.: US 8,774,469 B2

Comments

Appl. No.: 13/143,897

Abstract

A system and method for obtaining multispectral images of fresh meat at predetermined wavelength bands at a first time, subjecting the images to analysis in an image analysis system comprising a computer programmed to perform such analysis, and outputting a forecast of meat tenderness at a later point in time. Predetermined key wavelength bands are precorrelated with a high degree of prediction of meat tenderness and/or other properties of meat and are used in the multispectral system and method. A system and method for determining the key wavelengths is also disclosed. The multispectral imaging system and method is suitable for use in an industrial setting, such as a meat processing plant. The system and method is useful in a method for determining quality and yield grades at or near the time of imaging in lieu of visual inspection with the unaided human eye, increasing efficiency and objectivity.