Automated Tool for Grading Postharvest Agricultural Commodities

Technology Description:

The invention is an apparatus for sampling agricultural commodities such as any legume, grain, vegetable, fruit, nut, etc. for grading and valuation purposes. The apparatus uses a programmable logic controller, sensors, and logic software to operate a sampling and collection system. The sampling apparatus includes a sampling tube which obtains the required samples from a trailer-like vehicle to a sampling bin and then to a collection chute. The invention automatically obtains a representative sample of the agricultural commodity contained within the trailer and allows for accurate grading and valuation.

Reference:

Please refer to Patent Number 6,019,005, "Automation Apparatus for the Farmer Stock Peanut Pneumatic Sampler," which issued February 1, 2000.

Harry T. Sheppard
Peanut Research
Dawson, GA  31742
(229) 995-7246 / Fax: (229) 995-7416