Project Number: 1931-21000-015-20
Project Type: Nonfunded Cooperative Agreement

Start Date: Aug 01, 2007
End Date: Dec 31, 2009

Objective:
The main objective of this cooperative research project is to continue testing ARS's mobile Platform for fruit culture tasks and harvest assist in modern orchards.

Approach:
The picking aid developed at the Appalachian Fruit Research Station will be loaned to Karen Lewis, Washington State University, Prosser, WA for the 2007, 2008, and 2009 seasons. The project will include measurement of efficiency and productivity in various orchard tasks completed with the use of the platform. Ergonomic interventions, worker safety issues and best management practices for platform use will be determined. Orchard systems (design, management) specifications for platform compatibility will be determined.