A Microcomputer-Based System for Continuous Measurement and Recording Fruit Diameter in Relation to Environmental Factors

Abstract

A robust yet sensitive field system for continuously measuring and logging diameters of up to eight fruits, together with relevant meteorological variables such as radiation, temperature and humidity, is described. The system uses linear variable differential transformers to monitor fruit diameter changes and data-logging is controlled by a microcomputer. A detailed analysis of errors is presented. Application of the system to the study of environmental control of diurnal fluctuations in diameter of apple fruits is described.