Automation of Olive's Stone Drying Process
The objective of the research project is to develop an integrated project on automation of olive’s stone drying process of A.B.E.A. S.A. Methodologically the automation is based on the development of a control system which is able to monitor, record and adjust the olive’s stone process. The proposed system is based on multiple sensors which are installed on critical places of the production line and their objective is to collect data. Additionally, a system of actuators will accomplish the control in order to maintain olive’s stone moisture at the desired level of 8%.
A Neuro-Fuzzy controller will be used for controlling the production process. The data from the sensors and the human knowledge will be used to train the neural network, from which the rule base of the fuzzy logic controller and the memberships function will be obtained.
The aims of the project are:
- Improved product quality. This will be achieved based not only on the operator’s experience but also on accurate measurements. Additionally, as far as it concerns the safe operation of the installation, the continuous observation of the process decreases the danger of olive’s stone ignition. Expected improvement of the product quality is expected at about 25% - 50%.
- Production raise. An important decrease of the time that the dryer is out of order is expected.
- Environmental benefits. A result of proper operation of the dryer is the input on no more of the required quantity of material. That has as a result, that the suspended particles that get into the dryer are lesser. Due to the proper operation of the cyclone the noxious fumes are reduced.
- Improved working conditions. The operator will monitor remotely the production process from a safe and clean environment.
The project was funded by the Greek Secretariat for Research and Technology and A.B.E.A. S.A.
