Smart solutions for fruit growers

Purpose and goal

The overall goals of the project are: to understand how environmental conditions in the orchard govern the postharvest quality of fruits, and thereby develop smart information technology (IT) solutions for apple growers, to create a knowledge base in Sweden through the movement of Ms Bui from Belgium to the University of Gävle and for Ms. Bui to receive a PhD degree. The goals for the planning period were to set up the necessary national and international collaborations, in order to prepare of a full-scale proposal. The goals were fulfilled and a full proposal was submitted on Sept. 16th.

Results and expected effects

During the planning period, all travels were made to prospective partners according to plan, in order to set up a tight-knit collaboration, involving public and private sectors in Sweden and in Belgium. Key players with key roles and competence were identified and tied to the project. A detailed plan for the research project and for Ms. Bui´s accomplishment of a PhD degree were developed and finalised. The expected outcome from the planning period was the preparation of a full-scale proposal, covering three years of research, and this was accomplished on time.

Approach and implementation

The planning period of 2 ½ months were dedicated to travelling to prospective partners, planning their roles, inviting additional end users into the project and discussions on how to realize the project goals. By meeting the partners and getting to know the reality of their situation, it was possible to select the most suitable ones, who have mutual interest in the project. They are willing to offer materials, weather data, their time and expertise to the project. The hosting university and apple growers also expressed active interest, and everyone is looking forward to this cooperation.