Data logging system rewards fruit pickers' labours

Edited by the Processingtalk editorial team Oct 30, 2006

Kent and Sussex Scales are introducing their innovative 'pick and click' data logger, specifically designed for electronically recording picked weights of soft fruits directly in the field environment

Kent and Sussex Scales are introducing their innovative 'pick and click' data logger, specifically designed for electronically recording picked weights of soft fruits directly in the field environment.

The 'pick and click' system has been developed in direct response from growers for the increasing need for accurate, fast and electronically stored management data.

Using traditional laborious and inaccurate paperwork systems to keep track of who picks 'what', 'how much' and 'where' can be a logistical nightmare in busy fields and poly tunnels, especially where language barriers may bring added frustrations.

The system uses designated bar codes either in the form of labels attached to specific picking crates or on badges worn by the pickers.

When the pickers return with their full crates, the fruit is weighed on the designated scales and the bar codes scanned by the supervisor using the hand-held scanner.

This automatically allocates the correct amount of fruit to individual pickers, storing the data in the scale.

Stored information can be viewed at any time, showing picking trends by day, week or month and results printed off via a dedicated printer or downloaded to a laptop or PC.

The data, which can be organised to suit individual growers' needs including yield by picker, field or crop, provides invaluable information for improving efficiency and picker performance.

The robust, easy to use KSS weighing scales are available in versions from 6 kg to 50 kg capacity.

Integral carrying handles and power cord wrap ensure excellent portability, whilst optional battery packs can also be supplied for full 'field side' use.

'Pick and Click' is part of the Kent and Sussex Scales expanding range of scales and equipment offering added value management solutions for soft fruit growers and packers, market gardeners and farmers.