Fortress Technology has introduced a next-generation touchscreen interface for its food metal detection systems, designed to support food manufacturers in managing food safety risks and maintaining compliance.

The interface features a simplified, high-visibility design with bold buttons, contrasting icons, and a multi-color warning system. According to the company, this layout enables operators to quickly access critical control point (CCP) information and respond to alerts or logged events, particularly in high-pressure production environments.

Interface Design Supports Error Reduction and Operator Awareness

The touchscreen includes both light and dark display modes to improve visibility during safety-critical tasks. Fortress Technology stated that improved visual clarity can help reduce human error in fast-paced manufacturing settings by ensuring operators can easily interpret alerts and essential system information.

The interface provides real-time monitoring capabilities, including access to event logs and product setup functions. These features are intended to support consistent metal detection performance and facilitate faster operational adjustments.

Real-Time Data Monitoring and Reporting Capabilities

Production data is displayed directly on the human-machine interface (HMI), including contaminant detection events, conveyor and reject bin status, throughput metrics, sensitivity settings, and product identification. All event data is logged for extraction and reporting.

Quality assurance reports can be exported via USB or automated through the company’s Contact 4.0 digital reporting system. Fortress Technology stated that this functionality supports traceability, audit readiness, and automated performance verification recordkeeping. The system also offers options for networked data integration.

For facilities requiring advanced connectivity, optional OPC UA and Ethernet/IP communication adapters enable integration with plant monitoring systems, enterprise resource planning (ERP) platforms, and databases for real-time data capture.

Alignment With Food Safety Standards and Compliance Requirements

When paired with the company’s Halo Automatic Testing system, the interface is designed to support compliance with food safety standards and schemes, including Hazards Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP), Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI)-benchmarked programs, BRCGS, and retailer or supply chain codes of practice.

Compatibility With Existing Equipment

The touchscreen measures 7.2 inches (in.) by 4.5 in. and is compatible with Fortress Technology’s existing metal detection systems, including gravity, pipeline, and conveyor models. The company stated that the standardized screen size allows processors to upgrade without significant equipment modifications.

Fortress Technology also confirmed that its existing membrane-style and stainless steel HMIs will remain available, particularly for use in heavy washdown environments where durability is required.

Built-In Controls to Support Food Safety Culture

The interface includes 500 pre-programmed product categories to reduce setup time and training requirements. A multi-level password system restricts unauthorized changes, preventing operators from overriding established procedures.

According to the company, these features are intended to minimize human error and reinforce food safety accountability within processing operations.

Fortress Technology: www.fortresstechnology.com