Ultrasound transmission for early detection of low-contrast foreign bodies
An innovative ultrasound transmission technology for detecting low-contrast contaminants in bulk food streams. This approach enhances detection of plastics, rubber, and wood where conventional systems fail, offering improved yield and reduced false rejects in industrial processes.
Overview
Our ultrasound transmission-based sensing technology offers a breakthrough solution for detecting low-contrast foreign bodies in bulk material streams, particularly in the food industry. Unlike conventional X-ray or RF systems, which rely on density and line-of-sight, our technology utilizes acoustic signals to identify contaminants such as plastics, rubber, wood, and metals based on their effect on acoustic transmission. This allows for early-stage detection before size reduction, minimizing downstream risks and improving product safety and quality.
Technical specifications
Key Features:
- Utilizes acoustic transmission to detect structural inhomogeneities caused by contaminants
- Effective in identifying low-density materials that are challenging for conventional systems
- Proven in harsh industrial polymer conditions up to 300°C and high throughput
- Suitable for integration into continuous production environments, focusing on signal stability and detection reliability
This technology is designed to operate within food processing environments, providing reliable detection while reducing false positives and enhancing yield. The system includes sensing hardware, signal processing, and technical support to ensure seamless integration.
Technology readiness level
Currently, this technology is at TRL 4 for food applications, following its successful validation in polymer processing (TRL 8–9). Future validation phases include controlled trials, in-line pilot testing, and performance evaluation to ensure readiness for industrial deployment and scaling.
About Moldsonics
Moldsonics is an Austrian technology company specializing in ultrasonic sensor solutions for the plastics processing and injection molding industries. Founded in 2021 as a spin-off based on over a decade of research, the company develops hardware and software designed to provide real-time, high-precision measurement of physical state changes within the molding tool. By replacing assumptions with measurable data—such as flow front detection and cooling end-points—the technology allows manufacturers to optimize process stability, detect quality deviations, and monitor wear in production equipment.
These sensors provide manufacturers with actionable insights that help transition toward more transparent, digital, and climate-neutral production environments. By integrating directly into industrial processes, Moldsonics enables 24/7 monitoring and early anomaly detection, which helps reduce scrap rates and improve overall cycle reliability. The company collaborates with industry partners to implement its technology and has received multiple awards for its contributions to advancing manufacturing innovation and successfully transferring scientific research into industrial applications.
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