Colombian avocado producer Agrícola Ocoa has successfully trialled an advanced electronic data logger to increase efficiency, reduce waste and improve product quality. Developed by UK-based family firm Martin Lishman, ImpacTrack is an award-winning shock-sensing data logger housed in synthetic carrier shells that mimic the shape and density of avocados. Shock and temperature sensors inside the ‘Electronic Avocado’ track the movements of fruit through the different stages of production, highlighting areas that could cause potential damage through high impacts or sudden changes in temperature, and prompting immediate remedial action to equipment or processes. By seeking out sources of damage within their production chain it can achieve a significant reduction in losses due to damage and bruising.
David Restrepo, assistant director of Agrícola Ocoa, said the company wanted to ensure that its avocados reach customers in the best condition possible, and with minimal waste. The fruit is locally produced at the company’s farms in Urrao and Valle del Cauca and exported worldwide. By linking to a smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth, data can be viewed in real time to immediately show potential sources of damage in processing lines. Built-in memory also allows the logger to record both shocks and temperature changes independently, ideal for discreet logging of transport shipments. Impacts can be recorded throughout the entire production process.
“The data gave us the opportunity to detect the hot spots in the logistics chain. Both parameters, g-force applied and temperature, are recorded. We were able to record the entire process, from harvest to packaging,” said Restrepo. Results from Ocoa’s tests highlighted significant impacts which coincided with events along the processing chain such as harvesting, loading and unloading.
Source: Fruitnet
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