Alfalfa quality detection by means of VIS-NIR optical fiber reflection spectroscopy

A first approach study for the classification of alfalfa (medicago sativa) quality has been performed by means of VIS-NIR optical fiber reflection spectroscopy. Reflection spectral data has been obtained from alfalfa samples comprising six different qualities. Obtained data has been classified and organized to feed supervised self-learning algorithms. Neural networks have been used in order to differentiate the quality level of the samples. Obtained results permit to validate the proposed approach with 72% of the samples properly classified. In addition, proposed solution was implemented in a low cost automated detection prototype suitable to be used by non-qualified operators. Obtained equipment consist of a first step towards its utilization in quality monitoring and classification of many other products in the agri-food field.