The acronym gives a nod to the future elimination of human inspection prior to packaging, which is currently the standard practice. The new vision system surpasses previous technology in its ability to detect defects and replace them. As a result, productivity is increased due to potential speeds of operation and the reduction of error. Sanitation concerns will be greatly diminished without human contact in this portion of the packaging line for RTE foods. The robotic system is IP 69K certified and designed to be cleaned according to industrial methods.

George Reed , Vice President of Drake Engineering-----“ETI brings an unprecedented level of high efficiency loading and improved sanitary design to hot dog loading. The results are increased throughput and at the same time lower operating costs due to reduced headcount on the line.”

Drake Engineering holds 17 patents to date for the automatic loading of specialty food products. We have maintained a leading edge globally with continual research and development. The introduction of ETI will ensure our goal to exceed packaging line demands in 2010 is met.