Eurofruit reports that the Catholic University of Temuco (UCT) in Chile has recently developed an innovative blueberry picking tool that can improve production efficiency and improve working conditions for pickers. This tool is made of recycled polymer and is durable even in high temperatures during the harvest season, with a considerable lifespan.
According to the inventor, the device can accommodate different body types and ergonomic conditions, with an adjustable fastening system that can adapt to different bodies, minimizing physical exertion and reducing the risk of neck and waist injuries, making it faster and easier for workers to pick; It also contains a lightweight and durable container that will not damage the blueberries during storage, maintaining the freshness of the fruit and suitable for different sizes and varieties of blueberries; Modular design is also beneficial for daily cleaning and maintenance.
Field experiments in different environments have shown that the emergence of this tool has increased production efficiency by 9.7% and the average picking speed of workers has increased by 50%. In addition, fruit loss during manual harvesting was reduced by 87%. On the other hand, the muscle fatigue of the picking workers has also significantly decreased.
The co inventors of the tool stated, "This demonstrates that science and technology can solve the practical challenges facing our society, make agricultural cultivation more sustainable, and fully respect the workers on our land." They also stated that they will continue to improve this tool and promote it domestically and internationally in the future.