Identification of Feasible Grading System Improvements Using Systems Engineering

Abstract

Systems engineering was used to identify peanut grading system needs, establish requirements, and compare proposed solutions that meet consensus specifications established by all industry segments. Previous attempts to change the grading system were hindered by difficulty in getting all segments to agree on proposed changes. The systems engineering approach overcame this obstacle. Four proposed systems that will improve the current system while meeting all industry requirements are at various stages of the technology transfer process. The improvements included in these proposed solutions are: (1) high moisture foreign material identification, (2) measuring moisture during sampling, (3) measuring single kernel moisture, and (4) grading larger samples with an automated sample cleaning, shelling, sizing, and data collection system. Each of these improvements help ensure that consumer demands for quality are met without unfairly burdening any one segment of the peanut industry. Technology exists to implement other solutions such as objective damage detection, improved sampling, or aflatoxin measurement. However, resource or performance limitations presently prevent their implementation.