Scoping processor requirements in beef cutting control, yield data traceability, robotics, automation and structured manual cutting and handling

The Australian beef industry has specific requirements for planning automation and robotics integrated with traceability of information in the value chain. The objective is to review current practices and produce a requirements document which specifies automation, robotics and mechanised, or structured, handling solutions for meat cutting and process of information tracking to manage cutting. This will assist implementation of improvement opportunities as well as technology service providers in the process of supply to enhance processor capability relating to cut quality, yield in high value products, and operational efficiency. Identification of opportunities that would use automation and minimum handling are envisaged. Adding efficiencies in the processes of planning and execution of break-up, butchery and packaging will be evaluated, including methods that involve robotics and intelligent work station. Adoption guidelines and practices in relating to cutting and handling using automation and semi-automatic capabilities will be documented for further implementation considerations by both processors and technology suppliers.