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SmartSpud™ testing underway
Following a successful application for funding to the APC PPC in 2020, the Potato Growers Association have purchased a SmartSpud™ device for industry use.
A SmartSpud™ is an electronic potatoshaped device which is used to gauge points along the harvest/supply chain system where potatoes are potentially being damaged, in order to improve processes and increase potato quality and pack out. The device was ordered from Masitek in Canada, and given the challenges of 2020, took some time to arrive. Since it arrived a couple of months ago, Georgia and Morena have undertaken basic training online in its use and reporting systems. In late November, Georgia and Morena then started their practical training at Beta Spud, testing the device on the wash packing line. This highlighted the need for further trials to troubleshoot any issues and to liaise with Masitek on some of the finer points of using the SmartSpud™. The trials also highlighted the wideranging use for the SmartSpud™ and the opportunities for industry to make the most of the investment.
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According to aaggrrii™, the SmartSpud™ can reduce crop damage by up to 50 per cent on the first use. Other benefits include: · Reduce bruising and damage by as much as 50 per cent; · Improve line efficiencies, targeting downtime and maintenance; · Test new equipment in quick time; Measure levels of damage through all stages of processing; Make data-driven decisions.
Further testing will be undertaken in 2020 so that in 2021, the SmartSpud™ can be booked by industry members to undertake reviews of operations. Georgia and Morena will continue to upskill in the use of the device to support industry in its application. Thanks to Beta Spud for allowing us to test the device.
3 THE SmartSpud™ is an electronic potato-shaped device which is used to gauge points along the harvest/supply chain system where potatoes are potentially being damaged.
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