An active contour computer algorithm for the classification of cucumbers

The cucumber is one of the most important crops worldwide and, because it is generally consumed fresh, it must be classified into quality categories. The European classification system includes a parameter that relates the degree of curvature relative to the length. Until now, this classification could not been be achieved with an automatic system due to the difficulty associated with correctly calculating the axis of a cucumber. This article describes a computer algorithm that uses active contours or “snakes” to classify cucumbers by length and curvature. This algorithm demonstrates an advantage in the determination of the central line of each cucumber, based on an iterative process that is quick and carries out the classification process efficiently. The method was validated against human classification for 360 cucumbers and was also compared with an ellipsoid approximation method. The active contour method reduced the classification error by 15% points, compared with the ellipsoid approximation method, to 1%, with no serious errors (i.e., misclassification of Class Extra and I into Class II or vice versa). Meanwhile, the ellipsoid approximation method led to a 16% error rate, of which 2% were serious errors (an error of two classes). The developed approach is applicable to fresh cucumber commercial classification lines to meet the requirements of the European regulations for cucumber classification.

► Cucumber is one of the most important crops worldwide, and is consumed raw.
► The European classification demands that both length and curvature are taken into account.
► A method has been developed that classifies according to curvature and length, based on active contours.
► The method gives classification errors of 1% with no serious errors.
► It is applicable to commercial classification lines of fresh cucumbers.