WO2017035554A1

WO2017035554A1 - Produce ripening monitoring and/or control device, method and system

Info

Publication number: WO2017035554A1
Application number: PCT/AU2015/000532
Authority: WO
Inventors: Mark FERGUSSON; Paul GAPES; David HUGMAN; Martin AKMAN
Original assignee: Freshview Systems Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2015-09-02
Filing date: 2015-09-02
Publication date: 2017-03-09

Abstract

A method for monitoring produce ripening in a produce environment is described. The method comprises receiving readings from at least one monitor module wherein the received readings are from a plurality of transmitters connected to the at least one monitor module and the plurality of transmitters comprise an ethylene transmitter, a carbon dioxide transmitter, a humidity transmitter, an oxygen transmitter, and an ambient temperature transmitter; providing the received readings to a controller; and displaying the received readings to thereby monitor the produce ripening. In one embodiment the method further comprises controlling produce ripening by receiving at the controller one or more target readings; and sending the one or more target readings to the at least one control module, the at least one control module connected to and controlling a heater, a cooler and a gas delivery module, the gas delivery module comprising an ethylene source and the at least one control module controlling the output of at least one of the heater, the cooler and the gas delivery module to reach the target reading in the produce environment to thereby control the produce ripening.

Description

TITLE

PRODUCE RIPENING MONITORING AND/OR CONTROL

DEVICE, METHOD AND SYSTEM

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] This invention relates to a produce monitoring and/or control device, method and system. More particularly, this invention relates to a produce monitoring and/or control device, method and system comprising monitoring ethylene concentration; carbon dioxide concentration; relative humidity; oxygen concentration; ambient temperature; and optionally produce temperature. BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

[0002] The global economy has resulted in produce such as, fresh produce, being shipped around the world. Consumers are today much less restricted by seasonal limitations on the type of produce they purchase.

[0003] US Patent 5,658,607 describes a process for shipping and ripening fruits and vegetables in which the temperature is cooled to a holding temperature and a controlled atmosphere including ethylene is provided to uniformly initiate ripening. Once ripening is initiated, the ethylene is reduced and displaced with a low oxygen controlled atmosphere. The controlled atmosphere and temperature can be adjusted to influence the ripening process as desired to provide ripened products for delivery within a range of timing schedules.

[0004] Other commercially available ripening systems similarly utilise mechanisms to control the ethylene concentration within sealed rooms. One commercially available system, described at www.ripeningsolutions.com, provides a room that allows the ripening cycle to be started and then doses the room with ethylene and controls the ethylene and carbon dioxide concentration in the sealed room. Another commercially available system, described at www.globalripening.com, describes forced-air ripening and mentions pressurized ripening and the use of ultrasonic humidifiers. [0005] US Patent 5,165,947 describes a controlled atmosphere package which maintains tomatoes in a substantially fixed position relative to the package, regardless of the orientation of the package, and maintains a substantially uniform relative humidity inside the package. The humidity is maintained by the provision of a film which forms an airtight and watertight seal over the package and the provision of a humectant material.

[0006] There is a need for new devices, methods and systems for monitoring and/or controlling produce ripening.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION [0007] The present invention is directed to devices, methods and systems for monitoring and/or controlling produce ripening.

[0008] In a broad form, the invention relates to the monitoring and/or control of ethylene concentration; carbon dioxide concentration; relative humidity; oxygen concentration; and ambient temperature; of the produce environment. The invention may also optionally comprise the monitoring of produce temperature. The inventors' have found that the monitoring and/or control of these factors generates good results in produce ripening. Moreover, in some aspects, the invention allows the monitoring and/or control to be performed remotely which not only provides added convenience but has the significant advantage of controlling ripening in conjunction with transit scheduling. [0009] In a first aspect, the invention provides a method for monitoring produce ripening in a produce environment, the method comprising:

receiving readings from at least one monitor module wherein the received readings are from a plurality of transmitters connected to the at least one monitor module and the plurality of transmitters comprise an ethylene transmitter, a carbon dioxide transmitter, a humidity transmitter, an oxygen transmitter, and an ambient temperature transmitter;

providing the received readings to a controller; and

displaying the received readings to thereby monitor the produce ripening. [0010] In one embodiment of the first aspect, the received readings are displayed on the controller.

[0011] In another embodiment of the first aspect, the controller provides the received readings to a remote computing device for display on the remote computing device. The received readings may be provided to the remote computing device by a server connected to or comprised within the controller.

[0012] In still another embodiment of the first aspect, the received readings are displayed on the controller and provided to the remote computing device.

[0013] In one embodiment of the first aspect, the method further comprises displaying the received readings as a graphical display.

[0014] In another embodiment of the first aspect, the method further comprises controlling produce ripening, the method comprising:

receiving at the controller one or more target readings;

sending the one or more target readings to at least one control module, the at least one control module connected to and controlling a heater, a cooler and a gas delivery module, the gas delivery module comprising an ethylene source, and the at least one control module controlling the output of at least one of the heater, the cooler and the gas delivery module to reach the target reading in the produce environment to thereby control the produce ripening. [0015] In an embodiment of the first aspect, the target readings are input directly into the controller.

[0016] In another embodiment of the first aspect, the target readings are provided to the controller by the server computer and received by the server computer from a remote computing device. [0017] The method of the first aspect may further comprise receiving readings from two or more monitor modules, each monitor module receiving readings from a separate and respective produce environment. [0018] The method of the first aspect may further comprise receiving one or more target readings for two or more monitor modules, each respective monitor module monitoring a separate and respective produce environment.

[0019] In a second aspect, the invention provides a device for monitoring produce ripening, the device comprising:

at least one monitor module that receives readings from a plurality of transmitters and provides the received readings to a controller, wherein the plurality of transmitters comprises an ethylene transmitter, a carbon dioxide transmitter, a humidity transmitter, an oxygen transmitter, and an ambient temperature transmitter; and

a controller comprising an input for receiving the readings from the at least one monitor module and a display for displaying the received readings.

[0020] In a third aspect, the invention provides a device for remote monitoring of produce ripening, the device comprising:

a controller comprising an input for receiving the readings from the at least one monitor module and an output for providing the received readings to a server computer; and

the server computer comprising a network connection for communicating the received readings to a remote computing device.

[0021] In one embodiment of the second aspect or the third aspect, the received readings may be displayed as a graphical display. [0022] In one embodiment of the second aspect or the third aspect, the controller further comprises an input for directly receiving one or more target readings.

[0023] In one embodiment of the third aspect, one or more target readings may be provided to the controller by the server computer, the server computer having received the one or more target readings from the remote computing device. [0024] In another embodiment of the second aspect or the third aspect, the device further comprises:

at least one control module comprising an input for receiving the one or more target readings from the controller, the at least one control module connected to and controlling a heater, a cooler and a gas delivery module, the gas delivery module comprising an ethylene source.

[0025] The device of the second aspect or the third aspect, may further comprise two or more monitor modules, each monitor module receiving readings from a separate and respective produce environment. [0026] In another embodiment of the second aspect or the third aspect, the device further comprises two or more control modules, each control module connected to and controlling a heater, a cooler and a gas delivery module operating on a separate and respective produce environment.

[0027] In a fourth aspect, the invention provides a system for monitoring and/or controlling produce ripening, the system comprising:

at least one monitor module for receiving readings from a plurality of transmitters, the plurality of transmitters comprising an ethylene transmitter, a carbon dioxide transmitter, a humidity transmitter, an oxygen transmitter and an ambient temperature transmitter;

a controller connected to the monitor module for receiving the readings from the monitor module; and

a display for displaying the received readings.

[0028] According to one embodiment of the fourth aspect, the display is comprised on the controller. [0029] According to another embodiment of the fourth aspect, the controller is connected to or further comprises a server computer for communicating the readings to a remote computing device; and the display is comprised on the remote computing device.

[0030] According to still another embodiment of the fourth aspect, the display comprises a controller display and a remote computing device display. [0031] In another embodiment of the fourth aspect, the received readings are displayed graphically.

[0032] In another embodiment of the fourth aspect, the system further comprises:

the controller receiving one or more target readings; and

at least one control module for receiving the one or more target readings from the controller and controlling a heater, a cooler and a gas delivery module, the gas delivery module comprising an ethylene source, and the at least one control module controlling the output of the at least one of the heater, the cooler and the gas delivery module to reach the target reading to thereby control the produce ripening. [0033] In one embodiment of the fourth aspect, the one or more target readings are received by direct input into the controller.

[0034] In another embodiment of the fourth aspect, the system further comprises a server computer for receiving the target readings from a remote computing device and providing the target readings to the controller. [0035] The system of the fourth aspect may further comprise two or more monitor modules, each monitor module receiving readings from a separate and respective produce environment.

[0036] The system of the fourth aspect may further comprise two or more control modules, each respective control module operating on a heater, a cooler and a gas delivery module operating on a separate and respective produce environment.

[0037] According to any above aspect, the monitor module may further comprise a produce temperature transmitter providing the temperature of the produce. The produce temperature transmitter may comprise a sensor comprising a pulp thermometer. The pulp thermometer may comprise a thermocouple or a resistance thermometer. The resistance thermometer may comprise a platinum resistance thermometer.

[0038] According to any above embodiment the plurality of transmitters are connected to the at least one monitor module through a transmitter interface. [0039] According to any above aspect, the ethylene transmitter may comprise a sensor comprising a photoionization detector (PID).

[0040] According to any above aspect, the carbon dioxide transmitter may comprise a sensor comprising non-dispersive infrared (NDIR) sensor.

[0041] According to any above aspect, the humidity transmitter may comprise a sensor comprising a hygrometer. The hygrometer may comprise a capacitive hygrometer.

[0042] According to any above aspect, the oxygen transmitter may comprise a sensor comprising a capillary flow control sensor or fuel cell control sensor.

[0043] According to any above aspect, the ambient temperature transmitter may comprise a sensor comprising a thermocouple or a resistance thermometer. The resistance thermometer may comprise a platinum resistance thermometer.

[0044] According to any above aspect, the plurality of transmitters are comprised on a transmitter rack.

[0045] According to any above aspect, the gas delivery module may also comprise one or more solenoid which when activated allows flow of gas connected which may include ethylene, carbon dioxide and oxygen.

[0046] According to any above aspect, the gas delivery module may further comprise a carbon dioxide source and/or an oxygen source.

[0047] The produce environment may comprise a ripening room; a growing room and/or any growing environment including a green house or open-air growing environment.

[0048] The present invention seeks to overcome, or at least substantially ameliorate, at least some of the disadvantages and shortcomings of the prior art.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0049] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this Specification, illustrate various implementations of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the advantages and principles of the invention. In the drawings:

[0050] Figure 1 : shows one embodiment of a produce ripening monitoring and/or control device according to the invention. [0051] Figures 2A and 2B: shows one embodiment of a computer system suitable for use with the produce ripening monitoring and control device of the invention.

[0052] Figure 3: shows one embodiment of a method of a produce ripening monitoring and control device according to the invention.

[0053] Figure 4: shows a working embodiment of a device according to another embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0054] The following detailed description of the invention refers to the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings and the following description to refer to the same and like parts. Dimensions of certain parts shown in the drawings may have been modified and/or exaggerated for the purposes of clarity or illustration.

[0055] The present invention relates to a produce monitoring and/or control device, method and system.

[0056] The invention is at least partly predicated on the inventors' recognition that monitoring and/or control of ethylene concentration; carbon dioxide concentration; relative humidity; oxygen concentration; and ambient temperature of the produce environment gives good monitoring and/or control over produce ripening. The invention may also optionally comprise the monitoring of produce temperature. The inventors have found that the monitoring and/or control of these factors gives good results in produce ripening. Moreover, in some aspects, the invention allows the monitoring and/or control to be performed remotely which not only provides added convenience but has the significant advantage of controlling ripening in response to changes in shipping. [0057] The produce environment may comprise a ripening room; a storage room, a growing room and/or any growing environment including a green house or open-air growing environment.

[0058] As used herein "produce" is used to mean any food suitable for consumption that ripens. In one embodiment the ripening may comprise a climacteric stage which is a stage of ripening associated with increased ethylene production. In a particular embodiment produce refers to one or more fruit and/or vegetable. The fruit and/or vegetable may comprise one or more of an apple, lychee, apricot, grape, persimmon, pear, banana, avocado, bean, berry, grapefruit, kiwi, lentil, bilberry, mango, cherry, ginger, nectarine, onion, orange, kale, artichoke, asparagus, red cabbage, chive, aubergine, garlic, potato, parsley, peach, plum, radish, quince, suede, spinach, strawberry, mandarin, tomato, beetroot, broccoli, carrot, cauliflower, celery, guava, sweet potato, raspberry, medlar, papaya, pomegranate, pea, rice, kumquat, passion fruit, prickly pear (Opuntia cactus), Indian gooseberry, buddha's hand, yuzu, citron, mikan, limequat, lemon, mexicani, dragon fruit, longam.

[0059] When the produce comprises a berry, the berry may comprise a botanical berry or a fruit that is commonly referred to as a berry. The berry may comprise one or more of blackcurrant, blueberry, blackberry, cranberry, redcurrant and elderberry.

[0060] As used herein "ripening" includes degreening and any other process or change in produce from collection to a state ready for sale or consumption.

[0061] The produce temperature is the temperature of the produce as opposed to the ambient temperature. The produce temperature may comprise the pulp temperature of the produce. The ambient temperature is used to mean the surrounding temperature. For example, when the produce is in a ripening room, the ambient temperature is the temperature of the ripening room.

[0062] FIG. 1 shows one embodiment of a produce ripening and/or monitoring device 100 according to the invention. Device 100 is shown within the environment of the system 201 of the invention. The system 201 makes use of network 220 to communicate with remote computing devices 290. [0063] Device 100 comprises controller 102 that is connected to server computer 201, to monitor module 120 and to control module 160. Device 100 draws power through a power connection 108 from power source 104.

[0064] Power connection 108 is shown to be a mains power connection in FIG. 1. In other embodiments, other types of power connection may be utilized such as, a generator power connection, a solar power connection and/or a battery power connection.

[0065] The monitor module 120 comprises and receives readings from a plurality of transmitters 122. Advantageously, the plurality of transmitters 122 are connected to monitor module 120 through transmitter interface 121. This arrangement simplifies the installation as it reduces the amount of cabling between the plurality of transmitters 122 and the controller 102.

[0066] Another advantage of the present invention is that the plurality of transmitters 122 may be comprised on a transmitter rack 136 for orienting them in the correct position for optimal performance. [0067] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the monitor module 120 and the plurality of transmitters 122 are powered over the communications bus 106. This is of significant advantage because it means that there is no requirement for the monitor module 120 to draw mains power in its location at the produce environment, which may for example be located at a ripening room. [0068] In the embodiment shown, the plurality of transmitters comprises an ethylene transmitter 124, a carbon dioxide transmitter 126, a humidity transmitter 128, an oxygen transmitter 130, an ambient temperature transmitter 132 and a produce temperature transmitter 134. The produce temperature transmitter 134 is optional, such that, in other embodiments, the monitor module 120 does not comprise produce transmitter 134. [0069] The plurality of transmitters 122 comprises a corresponding plurality of sensors

123. Such that, the ethylene transmitter 124 comprises an ethylene sensor 125; the carbon dioxide transmitter 126 comprises a carbon dioxide sensor 127; the humidity transmitter

128 comprises a humidity sensor 129; the oxygen transmitter 130 comprises an oxygen sensor 131; the ambient temperature transmitter comprises 132 comprises an ambient temperature sensor 133; and the produce temperature transmitter 134 comprises a produce temperature sensor 135. Each of the plurality of sensors 123 comprises a transducer that detects the corresponding characteristic of the produce environment, that is, the ethylene sensor 125 detects the ethylene concentration in the produce environment; the carbon dioxide sensor 127 detects the carbon dioxide concentration in the produce environment; the humidity sensor 129 detects the relative humidity in the produce environment; the oxygen sensor 131 detects the oxygen concentration in the produce environment; the ambient temperature sensor 133 detects the ambient temperature in the produce environment; and the produce temperature sensor 135 detects the produce temperature. [0070] In one embodiment the ambient temperature sensor 133 and the produce temperature sensor 135 can detect -40 °C to 60 °C.

[0071] In one embodiment the relative humidity sensor 129 can detect 0 to 100% (non- condensing) humidity.

[0072] Based on the teachings herein a skilled person is readily able to select suitable sensors for use in the invention. By way of example, the produce temperature sensor 135 may comprise a pulp thermometer. The pulp thermometer may comprise a thermocouple or a resistance thermometer. The resistance thermometer may comprise a platinum resistance thermometer. The ethylene sensor 125 may comprise a photoionization detector (PID). The carbon dioxide sensor 127 may comprise a non-dispersive infrared (NDIR) sensor. The humidity sensor 129 may comprise a hygrometer. The hygrometer may comprise a capacitive hygrometer. The oxygen sensor 131 may comprise a capillary flow control sensor. The ambient temperature sensor 133 may comprise a thermocouple or a resistance thermometer. The resistance thermometer may comprise a platinum resistance thermometer. [0073] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the readings from the plurality of transmitters 122 are provided to controller 102 through controller input 1 10 and onto server computer 201 through controller output 114. Server computer 201 may comprise software and/or hardware capable of executing requests from clients. Server computer 201 is described in more detail below. [0074] As used herein a "server computer" is any computerised process that shares a resource to one or more client process.

[0075] Server computer 201 then communicates the received readings through a computer network 220 to one or more remote computing device 290 to thereby allow a user to monitor the produce ripening.

[0076] The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 shows that the one or more remote computing device 290 may comprise a personal computing device 290 such as, a smartphone and/or a tablet computer. In this way, the present invention allows fruit ripening and/or monitoring to be performed truly remotely and without a user having to be at their desk or the growing or ripening facility.

[0077] A user may then observe the received readings on the remote computing device 290 and/or the controller display 110. The received readings may be displayed graphically. The graphical display may comprise one or more chart.

[0078] The device of the invention further allows control of the produce ripening. This is done through the receiving of one or more target readings at the controller 102. The one or more target readings may be input directly into controller 102 or may be received from server computer 201. The remote computing device 290 can also receive the one or more target readings from the server computer 201.

[0079] The controller 102 sends the one or more target readings in the form of control signals to control module 160 through control module input 162. Control module 160 is connected to and controls a heater 164, a cooler 166 and a gas delivery module 168. The gas delivery module 168 comprises an ethylene source 170, a carbon dioxide source 172 and an oxygen source 174. The control module 160 then controls the output of the heater 164, the cooler 166 and the gas delivery module 168 to reach the target reading in the produce environment to thereby control the produce ripening. In other embodiments, the gas delivery module 168 only comprises an ethylene source 170.

[0080] Control module 160 comprises relay contacts and must provide power to the gas delivery module 168. Accordingly, control module 160 comprises a power connection 180 that obtains power from power source 182. [0081] Power connections 108 and 180 are shown to be mains power connections in FIG. 1. In other embodiments, other types of power connection may be utilized such as, a generator power connection, a solar power connection and/or a battery power connection.

[0082] In other embodiments device 100 may further comprise two or more monitor modules 120, each monitor module 120 receiving readings from a separate and respective produce environment.

[0083] The invention also provides embodiments in which device 100 further comprises two or more control modules 160, each control module 160 connected to and controlling a heater 164, a cooler 166 and a gas delivery module 168 operating on a separate and respective produce environment.

[0084] One embodiment of a server computer 201 suitable for use in the present invention is shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B. In the embodiment shown, server computer 201, comprises input devices such as a keyboard 202, a mouse pointer device 203, a scanner 226, an external hard drive 227, and a microphone 280; and output devices including a printer 215, a display device 214 and loudspeakers 217. In some embodiments video display 214 may comprise a touchscreen.

[0085] A Modulator- Demodulator (Modem) transceiver device 216 may be used by the server computer 201 for communicating to and from a communications network 220 via a connection 221. The network 220 may be a wide-area network (WAN), such as the Internet, a cellular telecommunications network, or a private WAN. Through the network 220, server computer 201 may be connected to remote computer devices 290. Where the connection 221 is a telephone line, the modem 216 may be a traditional "dial-up" modem. Alternatively, where the connection 221 is a high capacity (e.g.: cable) connection, the modem 216 may be a broadband modem. A wireless modem may also be used for wireless connection to network 220.

[0086] The server computer 201 typically includes at least one processor 205, and a memory 206 for example formed from semiconductor random access memory (RAM) and semiconductor read only memory (ROM). The server computer 201 also includes a number of input/output (I/O) interfaces including: an audio-video interface 207 that couples to the video display 214, loudspeakers 217 and microphone 280; an I/O interface 213 for the keyboard 202, mouse 203, scanner 226 and external hard drive 227; and an interface 208 for the external modem 216 and printer 215. In some implementations, modem 216 may be incorporated within the server computer 201, for example within the interface 208. The server computer 201 also has a local network interface 211 which, via a connection 223, permits coupling of the personal device 200 to a local computer network 222, known as a Local Area Network (LAN).

[0087] As also illustrated, the local network 222 may also couple to the wide network 220 via a connection 224, which would typically include a so-called "firewall" device or device of similar functionality. The interface 21 1 may be formed by an Ethernet circuit card, a Bluetooth wireless arrangement or an IEEE 802.11 wireless arrangement or other suitable interface.

[0088] The I/O interfaces 208 and 213 may afford either or both of serial and parallel connectivity, the former typically being implemented according to the Universal Serial Bus (USB) standards and having corresponding USB connectors (not illustrated).

[0089] Storage devices 209 are provided and typically include a hard disk drive (HDD) 210. Other storage devices such as, an external HD 227, a disk drive (not shown) and a magnetic tape drive (not shown) may also be used. An optical disk drive 212 is typically provided to act as a non- volatile source of data. Portable memory devices, such as optical disks (e.g.: CD-ROM, DVD, Blu-Ray Disc), USB-RAM, external hard drives and floppy disks for example, may be used as appropriate sources of data to the server computer 200. Another source of data to server computer 201 is provided by the remote computing device 290 through network 220.

[0090] The components 205 to 213 of the server computer 201 typically communicate via an interconnected bus 204 in a manner that results in a conventional mode of operation of server computer 201. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, processor 205 is coupled to system bus 204 through connections 218. Similarly, memory 206 and optical disk drive 212 are coupled to the system bus 204 by connections 219. Examples of server computers 200 on which the described arrangements can be practiced include IBM-PC's and compatibles, Sun Sparc stations, Apple computers; smart phones; tablet computers or like a device comprising a computer module like server computer 201. It is to be understood that when server computer 200 comprises a smart phone or a tablet computer, display device 214 may comprise a touchscreen and other input and output devices may not be included such as, mouse pointer device 203; keyboard 202; scanner 226; and printer 215.

[0091] FIG. 2B is a detailed schematic block diagram of processor 205 and a memory 234. The memory 234 represents a logical aggregation of all the memory modules, including the storage device 209 and semiconductor memory 206, which can be accessed by the server computer 201 in FIG. 2A. [0092] The methods of the invention may be implemented using server computer 201 wherein the methods may be implemented as one or more software application programs 233 executable within server computer 201. In particular, the steps of the methods of the invention may be effected by instructions 231 in the software carried out within the server computer 201 [0093] The software instructions 231 may be formed as one or more code modules, each for performing one or more particular tasks. The software 233 may also be divided into two separate parts, in which a first part and the corresponding code modules performs the method of the invention and a second part and the corresponding code modules manage a graphical user interface between the first part and the user. [0094] The software 233 may be stored in a computer readable medium, including in a storage device of a type described herein. The software is loaded into the server computer 201 from the computer readable medium or through network 221 or 223, and then executed by server computer 201. In one example the software 233 is stored on storage medium 225 that is read by optical disk drive 212. Software 233 is typically stored in the HDD 210 or the memory 206.

[0095] A computer readable medium having such software 233 or computer program recorded on it is a computer program product. The use of the computer program product in the server computer 201 preferably effects a device or apparatus for implementing the methods of the invention. [0096] In some instances, the software application programs 233 may be supplied to the user encoded on one or more disk storage medium 225 such as a CD-ROM, DVD or Blu- Ray disc, and read via the corresponding drive 212, or alternatively may be read by the user from the networks 220 or 222. Still further, the software can also be loaded into the server computer 201 from other computer readable media. Computer readable storage media refers to any non-transitory tangible storage medium that provides recorded instructions and/or data to the server computer module 201 or for execution and/or processing. Examples of such storage media include floppy disks, magnetic tape, CD- ROM, DVD, Blu-ray Disc, a hard disk drive, a ROM or integrated circuit, USB memory, a magneto-optical disk, or a computer readable card such as a PCMCIA card and the like, whether or not such devices are internal or external of the server computer 201. Examples of transitory or non-tangible computer readable transmission media that may also participate in the provision of software application programs 233, instructions 231 and/or data to the server computer 201 include radio or infra-red transmission channels as well as a network connection 221, 223, 334, to another computer or networked device such as, remote computing device 290, and the Internet or an Intranet including email transmissions and information recorded on Websites and the like.

[0097] The second part of the application programs 233 and the corresponding code modules mentioned above may be executed to implement one or more graphical user interfaces (GUIs) to be rendered or otherwise represented upon display 214. Through manipulation of, typically, keyboard 202, mouse 203 and/or screen 214 when comprising a touchscreen, a user of server computer 201 and the methods of the invention may manipulate the interface in a functionally adaptable manner to provide controlling commands and/or input to the applications associated with the GUI(s). Other forms of functionally adaptable user interfaces may also be implemented, such as an audio interface utilizing speech prompts output via loudspeakers 217 and user voice commands input via microphone 280. The manipulations including mouse clicks, screen touches, speech prompts and/or user voice commands may be transmitted via network 220 or 222.

[0098] When the server computer 201 is initially powered up, a power-on self-test (POST) program 250 may execute. The POST program 250 is typically stored in a ROM 249 of the semiconductor memory 206. A hardware device such as the ROM 249 is sometimes referred to as firmware. The POST program 250 examines hardware within the server computer 201 to ensure proper functioning, and typically checks processor 205, memory 234 (209, 206), and a basic input-output systems software (BIOS) module 251 , also typically stored in ROM 249, for correct operation. Once the POST program 250 has run successfully, BIOS 251 activates hard disk drive 210. Activation of hard disk drive 210 causes a bootstrap loader program 252 that is resident on hard disk drive 210 to execute via processor 205. This loads an operating system 253 into RAM memory 206 upon which operating system 253 commences operation. Operating system 253 is a system level application, executable by processor 205, to fulfil various high level functions, including processor management, memory management, device management, storage management, software application interface, and generic user interface.

[0099] Operating system 253 manages memory 234 (209, 206) in order to ensure that each process or application running on server computer 201 has sufficient memory in which to execute without colliding with memory allocated to another process. Furthermore, the different types of memory available in the server computer 201 must be used properly so that each process can run effectively. Accordingly, the aggregated memory 234 is not intended to illustrate how particular segments of memory are allocated, but rather to provide a general view of the memory accessible by server computer 201 and how such is used. [00100] Processor 205 includes a number of functional modules including a control unit 239, an arithmetic logic unit (ALU) 240, and a local or internal memory 248, sometimes called a cache memory. The cache memory 248 typically includes a number of storage registers 244, 245, 246 in a register section storing data 247. One or more internal busses 241 functionally interconnect these functional modules. The processor 205 typically also has one or more interfaces 242 for communicating with external devices via the system bus 204, using a connection 218. The memory 234 is connected to the bus 204 by connection 219.

[00101] Application program 233 includes a sequence of instructions 231 that may include conditional branch and loop instructions. Program 233 may also include data 232 which is used in execution of the program 233. The instructions 231 and the data 232 are stored in memory locations 228, 229, 230 and 235, 236, 237, respectively. Depending upon the relative size of the instructions 231 and the memory locations 228-230, a particular instruction may be stored in a single memory location as depicted by the instruction shown in the memory location 230. Alternately, an instruction may be segmented into a number of parts each of which is stored in a separate memory location, as depicted by the instruction segments shown in the memory locations 228 and 229.

[00102] In general, processor 205 is given a set of instructions 243 which are executed therein. The processor 205 then waits for a subsequent input, to which processor 205 reacts by executing another set of instructions. Each input may be provided from one or more of a number of sources, including data generated by one or more of the input devices 202, 203, or 214 when comprising a touchscreen, data received from an external source across one of the networks 220, 222, data retrieved from one of the storage devices 206, 209 or data retrieved from a storage medium 225 inserted into the corresponding reader 212. The execution of a set of the instructions may in some cases result in output of data. Execution may also involve storing data or variables to the memory 234.

[00103] The disclosed arrangements use input variables 254 that are stored in the memory 234 in corresponding memory locations 255, 256, 257, 258. The described arrangements produce output variables 261 that are stored in the memory 234 in corresponding memory locations 262, 263, 264, 265. Intermediate variables 268 may be stored in memory locations 259, 260, 266 and 267.

[00104] The register section 244, 245, 246, the arithmetic logic unit (ALU) 240, and the control unit 239 of the processor 205 work together to perform sequences of micro- operations needed to perform "fetch, decode, and execute" cycles for every instruction in the instruction set making up the program 233. Each fetch, decode, and execute cycle comprises:

(a) a fetch operation, which fetches or reads an instruction 231 from memory location 228, 229, 230;

(b) a decode operation in which control unit 239 determines which instruction has been fetched; and (c) an execute operation in which the control unit 239 and/or the ALU 240 execute the instruction.

[00105] Thereafter, a further fetch, decode, and execute cycle for the next instruction may be executed. Similarly, a store cycle may be performed by which the control unit 239 stores or writes a value to a memory location 232.

[00106] Each step or sub-process in the methods of the invention may be associated with one or more segments of the program 233, and may be performed by register section 244-246, the ALU 240, and the control unit 239 in the processor 205 working together to perform the fetch, decode, and execute cycles for every instruction in the instruction set for the noted segments of program 233.

[00107] One or more other remote computing devices 290 may be connected to the communications network 220 as seen in FIG. 2A. Each such remote computing device 290, and controller 120 may have a similar configuration to the server computer 201 and corresponding peripherals. [00108] The method of the invention may alternatively be implemented in dedicated hardware such as one or more integrated circuits performing the functions or sub functions of the described methods. Such dedicated hardware may include graphic processors, digital signal processors, or one or more microprocessors and associated memories.

[00109] The invention also provides a method 300 for monitoring produce ripening in a produce environment. Method 300 comprises the step 302 of receiving readings from at least one monitor module 120 wherein the received readings are from a plurality of transmitters 122 connected to the at least one monitor module 120 and the plurality of transmitters 122 comprise an ethylene transmitter 124, a carbon dioxide transmitter 126, a humidity transmitter 128, an oxygen transmitter 130, and an ambient temperature transmitter 132.

Method 300 also comprises the step 304 of providing the received reading [00111] Method 300 also comprises step 306 of displaying the received readings to thereby monitor the produce ripening.

[00112] Method 300 may also comprise the optional step 308 of receiving at the controller one or more target readings; [00113] FIG. 3 also shows another optional step 310 in method 300, which is that of sending the one or more target readings to at least one control module 160, the at least one control module 160 connected to and controlling a heater 164, a cooler 166 and a gas delivery module 168, the gas delivery module 168 comprising an ethylene source 170, a carbon dioxide source 172 and an oxygen source 178 and the at least one control module 102 controlling the output of at least one of the heater 164, the cooler 166 and the gas delivery module 168 to reach the target reading in the produce environment to thereby control the produce ripening.

EXAMPLES

[00114] The example described below refers to the working embodiment shown in FIG 4. Although this working embodiment is not limited to application to ripening rooms, it will be described with reference to the produce environment as a ripening room.

[00115] FIG. 4 shows a working embodiment of a controller 102 according to the invention. The robust design of the controller 102 allows use in harsh environments. The weatherproof connectors and sockets protect the electronics and signals from damage and disturbance by moisture and dust typically found in a ripening room. And the hygienically designed enclosures mean they can be installed almost anywhere.

[00116] Controller 102 comprises a 3G modem, and antenna 5clB c/w 10m cable and a wall mounting kit.

[00117] The device 100 comprises controller 102, the monitor module 120; the monitor module 120; the plurality of transmitters 122; the control module 160; the gas delivery module 168; and the server computer 201. [00118] The monitor module 120 comprises an interface between the controller 102 and the plurality of transmitters 122. The monitor module 120 comprises a transmitter interface 121 which comprises six channels for sensor inputs comprising ethylene 125; carbon dioxide 127; relative humidity 129; oxygen 131 ; ambient temperature 133 and produce temperature 135. The monitor module also comprises a 24V power/communications and a wall mounting kit.

[00119] The plurality of transmitters 122 comprise sensors 125, 127, 129, 131, 133,

135 that reside at the produce environment. When the produce environment comprises a ripening room, sensors 125, 127, 129, 131, 133, 135 are inside the ripening room. [00120] The control module 160 provide Inputs and Outputs for the controller 102.

[00121] The gas delivery module 168 comprises solenoids for controlled delivery of gas to the produce environment.

The server computer handles the remote access into the controller 102.

[00122] There are two software applications in the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the software running on controller 102 and the website which provides remote access to controller 102. The application running on controller 102 allows the user to configure or view any part of an individual controller 102. Whereas the website will only allow users to configure setpoints, enable/disable control and view logged data for any controller 102 they have access to. [00123] Within each produce environment or ripening room there must be a monitor module 120, which allows the controller 102 to read the data from the individual transmitters 124, 126, 128, 130, 132, 134 within the plurality of 122.

[00124] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, one control module 160 will support up to two inputs and four relay outputs as well one gas delivery module 168. The inputs can be used for things like door switches and emergency stop buttons, and the outputs can be used to turn on/off things like coolers and heaters. [00125] The gas delivery module 168 is connected to the control module 160 though a dedicated port, which also provides power to the gas delivery module 168. This allows the controller 102 to deliver gas to either 2 or 4 rooms (depending on the gas delivery module 168) from a single gas source. Gas may be delivered to the room using a shot process, which will deliver gas for a configurable amount of time followed by a configurable idle time between shots. For example, deliver gas for 5 seconds and wait 30 seconds between shots. This delay between shots allows the gas to be distributed evenly throughout the room before delivering more gas. This reduces to the possibly of over- gassing a room and damaging fruit. [00126] The controller 102 can be configured to monitor up to 12 rooms and 24 parameters, with up to 6 parameters in each room. This means 4 rooms with 6 parameters in each, or 12 rooms with 2 parameters in each and every combination in between can be configured. In a single room, up to 6 parameters can be monitored; or just a subset of them. [00127] As the controller 102 runs, it will continually monitor all of the rooms' parameters, and will enable/disable outputs which to turn on and off equipment such as venting fans and compressors, to keep the room within its setpoints, or alarm if the room exceeds alarm thresholds. Each room has a set of independent settings which include: parameter setpoints, and alarm thresholds; enable/disable room control of single or multiple parameters; inputs to disable all room control, useful for door switches and emergency stop buttons; outputs to control equipment, such as venting fans and compressors; and alarm outputs to drive warning lights and sirens.

[00128] Configuring a room for ripening, degreening or for storage, may start with defining the room's desired environment. This involves setting up various setpoints and alarm thresholds which the controller 102 will attempt to maintain, by turning on/off external equipment such as venting fans, and compressors. Also if a room exceeds alarm thresholds, possibly by equipment malfunction, then an alarm may be generated, which highlights the alarming parameter on the controllers screen, as well as send SMS messages to notify operators of the situation. [00129] Alarm thresholds are fairly straight forward, if the parameter exceeds the low or high alarm threshold, then an alarm will be generated. Room setpoints are more complicated, since there are three of them, Low Setpoint, Setpoint and High Setpoint. There are three setpoints to allow for the different equipment/room response obtained when you are either dropping a parameter value or increasing it. For example, the heater in a room may require a larger acceptable range than what the compressor requires. Thus the difference between the Setpoint and the Low and High Setpoints differ.

[00130] When controller 102 is increasing a parameter's value to reach setpoint, it will keep increasing the parameter until the room hits the high setpoint. The parameter will start to reduce as time passes, then once its value gets below the setpoint, the controller will enable the appropriate output to increase the parameter's value once again. The same holds for when the controller is decreasing a parameter's value to reach setpoint, except it will keep decreasing the value until it hits the low setpoint, before the control output is disabled. [00131] Data logging may occur at ten second intervals and may record all events that the controller 102 is capable of monitoring. These events include Supervisor/Operator logons, website logons, transmitter values and any parameter or room changes (parameter/room control, set point levels etc.). All logged transmitter values and log messages can be viewed/download either on the controller 102 or remotely from the website,

[00132] There may be two types of users within the controller 102 and website; these are Supervisor and Operator users. A single user within a company can be synchronized to every controller within their company as well as the website. This allows for centralized user management via the FreshView website and a single username/password combination for a single user that valid on all devices 100 that they are assigned to. All actions performed by users may be logged and may be visible via the controller or website.

[00133] Supervisor Users can configure/view any part of the controller/website as well create new users. [00134] Operator Users can configure room setpoints and enable/disable control as well view logged data on controllers they are assigned to.

[00135] An internet connection is required to enable controller 102 to communicate to the website. This internet connection can be provided via the internal 3G modem, or via LAN connection. The controller 102 will poll the website every thirty seconds so that data can be synchronized. During this request the controller 102 may update the website with new transmitter readings, room configuration changes, user modifications and log messages. And the website may send down any room configuration changes and user modifications. [00136] Due to this thirty second interval on the controllers polling time, changes that are done on the website may take up to thirty seconds before changes appear on the controller 102 and vice versa for updates performed on the controller 102. The website will only show updates that have been confirmed by the controller 102. This means that if a change is made on the website, it may take up one minute for that change to visible on the site. This is because two polling cycles must be performed before the change will have completely propagated.

[00137] To allow for user input there is an onscreen keyboard and numpad, which are displayed when required on either controller 102 and where possible remote computing device 290. The user simply enters a value then taps the onscreen display of a green tick to submit the new value. Or if the on screen display of a red cross is tapped, then the keyboard/numpad is closed and the value is unchanged.

[00138] When Password Protection is enabled and there is no user is logged, then the Lock Screen will be displayed. This screen does not show any detailed information, instead it just shows the rooms status and if any alarms are active. When a parameter is in an alarm state, then that parameter will be highlighted red and flashing.

[00139] To view more detailed information or edit settings the user must login by tapping anywhere on the screen. This will open a keyboard to allow the user to enter their username and password. [00140] The main screen is shown if Password Protection is disabled, or as the first page seen after a user logs in when Password Protection is enabled. It displays a detailed overview of all the rooms attached to the controller. It will try to squeeze in as much information as possible, therefore the layout of each room will differ depending on the number of rooms, and the number of parameters in each room. When a parameter is in an alarm state, then that parameter will be highlighted red. Tapping on a room will open its configuration screen.

[00141] The following parameters may be displayed on a Main Screen. Room Name: The name defined in the room's configuration. Parameter Type: The monitored parameter's type. Parameter Value: The monitored parameter's value. Action to Reach Setpoint: The action required for the parameter to reach setpoint. Parameter Setpoint: The parameters configured setpoint. Parameter Alarm Low Setpoint: The parameters configured low alarm setpoint. Parameter Alarm High Setpoint: The parameters configured high alarm setpoint. Active Inputs/Output Indicator: Displays which outputs are active as well as if there is an active input. Logged in User: The name of the user that is currently logged in. Current Date: The current date set on the controller. Current Time: The current time set on the controller. Battery Voltage: The internal battery's voltage. Indicates how charged the battery is when it is not charging. Controller Temperature: The current temperature of the air within the controller. Logout: Logs out the current user. Settings: Open the settings screen. Temperature/Humidity Graph: Displays the Air Temperature, Pulp Temperature and Humidity graphs. Gas Concentration Graph: Displays the ethylene, carbon dioxide and oxygen graphs. Nothing to Graph: Indicates that there is no logged data within the time period for that room. Battery Charging: Indicates that mains power is on, and the battery is charging. [00142] The following settings may be displayed on a settings screen on the controller display 110 or remote computing device 290: Rooms; Devices; Edit Users; Miscellaneous Options; Set Time; Network; Alarm and SMS Settings; USB Data Download; Logs; System Status; Reboot - Reboots the controller; Check for Updates - checks if there are any software updates available; Submit Button - closes this screen and re-opens the Main Screen. [00143] The following parameters may be displayed on a device configuration screen: transmitters 124, 126, 128, 130, 132, 134; control module 160; and submit button which closes this screen and opens the setting screen.

[00144] The following parameters may be displayed on a Transmitter Interface Module List: Opens the transmitter interface configuration screen. When the button is red the transmitter interface 121 is disconnected. Add New: Adds a new monitor module 120, tapping on this will opens the monitor module configuration screen. Submit Button: Closes this screen and re-opens the Settings screen.

[00145] Transmitter Module Configuration screen comprises the following parameters. Transmitter Module - tapping on this will cycle through supported modules 120. Attached Transmitters: Allows selection of which transmitters 124, 126, 128, 130, 132, 134 are attached to the monitor module 120. Remove: removes the current monitor module 120 from the controller 102. Cancel Button: Discards changes, closes this screen and re-opens the Transmitter List screen. Submit Button: Save changes, closes this screen and re-opens the Transmitter List screen.

[00146] The Control Module screen comprises the following parameters. Control Module list: Opens control module configuration screen. When the button is red the DIOM is disconnected. Add New: Adds a new control module 160, tapping on this will opens the configuration screen. Submit Button: Closes this screen and re- opens the Settings screen.

[00147] The Control Module set up screen comprises the following parameters. Control Module: Tapping on this will cycle though supported control modules 160. Control Module Name: Allows naming of the control module 160. Output Names: Allows naming of the module's outputs. Input Names: Allows naming of the module's inputs. Remove: Removes the current control module 160 from the controller 102. Cancel Button: Discards changes, closes this screen and re-opens the Control Module screen. Submit Button: Closes this screen and re-opens the Settings screen.

[00148] Room configuration is a useful configuration interfaces within the device

100 and system of the invention. There are two ways to reach a room's configuration screen. The first is through the Main Screen, by tapping on the room you wish to view. The other is using the Room List screen, which lists all rooms on the controller 102. New rooms can only be added though the Rooms List screen.

[00149] The Room list screen comprises the following parameters. Room List: Lists all the rooms, tapping on one will opens its configuration screen. Add New: Adds a new room, tapping on this will opens the room configuration screen. Submit Button: Closes this screen and re- opens the Settings Screen.

[00150] There are several screens used to configure a room including those in this paragraph. Setpoint & Control Configuration: This is the main room screen, this is where the parameter setpoints can be changed and room or parameter control can be enabled/disabled. Gas Delivery Configuration: Allows configuration of how gas should be delivered to a room. Transmitter Selection: Allows selection of which Transmitter Interface Module is connected to which rooms. Input Configuration: Used to define inputs to a room, such as door switches or emergency stop buttons. Output Configuration: Used to define relay outputs for a room for controlling equipment such as venting fans, compressors, heaters, etc. Alarm Output Configuration: Used to define relay outputs for driving warning systems, such as sirens and flashing lights to warn people of possible dangers. Venting Configuration: When a room is venting, there will be a dramatic effect to the room. To try and reduce this effect, this interface allows the selection of allowed room control while venting is enabled. For example, delivery of ethylene may not be desired, but the cooling of the room may wish to be continued.

[00151] The room set point and control configuration screen may comprise the following. Parameter Type: The monitored parameter's type. Parameter Value: The monitored parameter's value. Low Setpoint: The parameters low setpoint setting. Setpoint: The parameters setpoint setting. High Setpoint: The parameters high setpoint setting. Low Alarm: The parameters low alarm threshold. High Alarm: The parameters high alarm threshold. Ripening gas/Carbon dioxide Control: Enables/Disable ethylene/carbon dioxide control and opens gas delivery options. Temperature/Humidity/Oxygen Control: Enables/Disable Temperature/Humidity/Oxygen control. Manual Venting: Enables/Disables manual room venting. General Output: Enables/Disables the general room output. Room Control: Enables/Disables control to the room. Graphing: enters screen graphing readings. Change Room Name: Opens the on screen keyboard to change the room's name. Select Transmitters: Room Transmitter Selection. Setup I/O: Remove Room: Removes the current room. Cancel Button: Discard all changes and return to main screen. Submit Button: Save all changes and return to main screen.

[00152] The gas delivery may also be configured using the display screen. Each ripening gas and carbon dioxide room parameter has a Delivery Start Time and a Delivery Duration which can be set to delay the start of the gassing cycle, and will automatically stop gassing once the Delivery Duration has elapsed. There is also a gassing timeout, defined below under "Disable control if setpoint not reached in". If the controller 102 has been gassing the room to reach setpoint for the defined number of minutes, and the room has not reach setpoint, then control for this parameter will be disabled, and gassing will cease. The main reason for a room to not reach setpoint would be an empty gas bottle, but could also indicate other more serious issues. [00153] The gas delivery configuration screen may comprise the following parameters. Vent on High Setpoint: Vent the room once the parameter is above the High Setpoint. Vent on High Alarm: Only vent the room once the parameter is above the High Alarm threshold. Shot Duration: The number of seconds that gas shot lasts for. Shot Delay: The number of seconds between gas shots. Delivery Start Time: The date/time of when gas delivery should start. Delivery Start Time - Hours Adjust: Increase/Decrease the delivery start time by one hour. Delivery Start Time - Minutes Adjust: Increase/Decrease the delivery start time by one minute. Delivery Duration Hours: Opens numpad to enter delivery duration hours. Delivery Duration Minutes: Opens numpad to enter delivery duration minutes. Delivery Duration - Hours Adjust: Increase/Decrease the delivery duration by one hour. Delivery Duration - Minutes Adjust: Increase/Decrease the delivery duration by one minute. Disable Control if setpoint not reached: Opens numpad to enter timeout value. Submit Button: Save changes and return to room configuration screen.

[00154] The room transmitter selection screen comprises the following parameters.

Monitor module list: Transmitter Interface Modules attached to controller. The selected monitor module 120 is highlighted with green. Detach: Detaches a monitor module 120 from the current room. Submit Button: Go back to room configuration screen without selecting a monitor module 120.

[00155] The Room Input/Outputs Configuration screen comprises the following parameters Selected Outputs: Control module outputs selection for room action. Setup Inputs. Alarm Outputs. Venting. Submit Button: Go back to room configuration screen. Changes are saved once the room configuration screen is saved.

[00156] The Inputs configuration screen comprises the following parameters. Inputs

List: Lists all the configured inputs for the current room. Input Name: Shows the onscreen keyboard, so that the input can be named. Control module Input: Allows for selection of an input on an attached control module. Input Type: Is the input Normally Open (NO) or Normally Closed (NC). Add New: Add a new input to the list. Submit Button: Go back to room configuration screen. Changes are saved once the room configuration screen is saved.

[00157] The Alarm Output configuration screen may comprise the following parameters. Low Alarm Output: Select output for when the low alarm is active. High Alarm Output: Select output for when high alarm is active. Both Alarms Output: Select output for when either alarm is active. Submit Button: Go back to room configuration screen.

[00158] The Allowed Outputs while venting screen may comprise the following parameters. Action List: Set which actions are allowed while the room is venting. Submit Button: Go back to room configuration screen. Changes are saved once the room configuration screen is saved.

[00159] The Room Graphing screen may comprise the following parameters. Start

Date/Time: Displays start date/time. Tapping here will open a calendar to change the date. Start Time Hour Adjust: Increment/decrement the start time hours by one hour. Start Time Minute Adjust: Increment/decrement the start time minutes by one minute. End Date/Time: Displays end date/time. Tapping here will open a calendar to change the date. End Time Hour Adjust: Increment/decrement the end time hours by one hour. End Time Minute Adjust: Increment/decrement the end time minutes by one minute. Update Graph: Update the graphs, need to tap here after changing start/end date/times. Temperature/Humidity Graph: Shows the temperatures and relative humidity plots. Temperature/Humidity Graph Legend: The legend for the temperature/humidity graph. Gas Graph: Shows the gas plots. Gas Graph Legend: The legend for the gas graph. Hide/Show Air Temperature: Show/hide the air temperature graph. Hide/Show Pulp Temperature: Show/hide the pulp temperature graph. Hide/Show Relative Humidity: Show/hide the relative humidity graph. Hide/Show Ripening Gas: Show/hide the ripening gas graph. Hide/Show 02: Show/hide the oxygen graph. Hide/Show C02: Show/hide the carbon dioxide graph. Hide/Show Legend: Show/hide the graph legends. Cancel Button: Go back to the room configuration screen. [00160] The User Configuration screen may comprise the following parameters.

User List: Lists all the users on this controller. If the button is red, that user cannot be synchronized to the website. Add New: Adds a new user. Submit Button: Return to the settings screen.

[00161] The Edit User screen may comprise the following parameters. Username: Displays the users' username, tap to enter a new value. Password: The users' password, tap to enter a new value. Role: Displays the users' role, tap to cycle though Supervisor/Operator. SMS Enabled: Displays if user should receive SMS message, tap to enter a new value. First Name: The users' first name, tap to enter a new value. Last Name: The users' last name, tap to enter a new value. Mobile: The users' mobile phone number, tap to enter a new value. Email: The users' email address, tap to enter a new value. Lookup Username: Lookup the current username on the server computer 201. Lookup Mobile: Lookup the current mobile phone number on the server computer 201. Lookup Email: Lookup the current email address on the server computer 201. Remove User: Remove the current user from the controller. User not Synchronizable: Due to duplicate username, mobile phone number or email address, this user cannot be synchronized to the server computer 201 or to other controllers 102. Cancel Button: Discard any changes made and return to the users list screen. Submit Button: Save changes and return the users list screen.

[00162] The Date/Time and Timezone Configuration Screen may comprise the following parameters. Current Timezone: The controllers' current timezone. Update Time from Internet: Fetch the current time from an internet time server. Update Time from Mobile Network: Fetch the current time from the mobile phone network. Current Date: The current date; can be changed by tapping on the desired date. Current Time (Hours): Displays the hours part of the time. Hour Adjust: Increment/decrement the hours. Current Time (Minutes): Displays the minutes part of the time. Minutes Adjust: Increment/decrement the minutes. Current Time (Seconds): Displays the seconds part of the time. Seconds Adjust: Increment/decrement the seconds. Cancel Button: Discard changes and return to the settings screen. Submit Button: Saves changes, and restarts the controller application.

[00163] The Timezone selection Screen comprises the following parameters. Timezone Search: Enter relevant timezone abbreviation here, for example AEST (Australian Eastern Standard Time) for Brisbane. Timezone List: A list of all the timezone matching a Timezone search. Tapping on one will select it and return you to the date/time configuration screen. Cancel Button: Discard any changes and return to Date/Time configuration screen. [00164] For remote access via the website, the controller 102 must have an internet connection. This connection can be provided using the internal 3G modem, or via a LAN connection. The network configuration screen allows the selection of which type of connection should be used. If it configured to be on a LAN, then it can either be set up to obtain the IP address automatically using DHCP, or a static IP address can be defined. [00165] The Network Configuration Screen may comprise the following parameters.

Use 3G Network: Use the 3G modem and mobile phone network for an internet connection. 3G Network Provider: The APN to which to connect your SIM card to. Reconnection Time: Time of day when the 3G is disconnected and reconnected to the network. Adjust Reconnection Time (Hours): Increment/decrement the reconnection time hours. Adjust Reconnection Time (Minutes): Increment/decrement the reconnection time minutes. Use Local Network: Use a local network over Ethernet for the internet connection. Obtain IP Address Automatically: If this is checked DHCP is used to obtain an IP address. Manual IP Address Configuration: If this is checked, then the fields below must also be populated. IP Address: Displays the manual IP address, tap to change its value. Subnet Mask: Displays the manual IP address, tap to change its value. Gateway: Displays the manual IP address, tap to change its value. Preferred DNS Server: Displays the manual IP address, tap to change its value. Alternate DNS Server: Displays the manual IP address, tap to change its value. Cancel Button: Discard changes and return to settings screen. Submit Button: Save changes, restart network interfaces and return to settings screen.

[00166] The SMS notifications configuration screen may comprise the following parameters. Low Alarm Notifications: Enable/disable SMS notifications on parameter low alarm. High Alarm Notifications: Enable/disable SMS notifications on parameter high alarm. Recovered from Alarm Notifications: Enable/disable SMS notifications when parameter recovers from a low or high alarm. Transmitter Disconnected Notifications: Enable/disable SMS notifications when a parameters transmitter 124, 126, 128, 130, 132, 134 or control module 160 is disconnected. Transmitter Reconnected Notifications: Enable/disable SMS notifications when a parameters transmitter 124, 126, 128, 130, 132, 134 or control module 160 is reconnected. Power Fail Notifications: Enable/disable SMS notifications when power is lost or restored. Low Alarm Timeout: The number of minutes a parameters low alarm must be active for before an SMS notification is sent. High Alarm Timeout: The number of minutes a parameters high alarm must be active for before an SMS notification is sent. Input Timeout: The number of minutes an input must be active for before an SMS notification is sent. Cancel Button: Discards changes and return to settings screen. Submit Button: Saves changes and return to settings screen.

[00167] The Miscellaneous options screen may comprise the following parameters.

Password Protection: Enable/Disable password protection. Automatic Logout Inactivity Period: The number of minutes a user must be idle for, before they are automatically logged out. Time period for Main Screen Graphs: The duration of the time axis on the main screen graphs. Disable Control on Under Range: Should parameter control be disabled if a transmitter is reading under range values. This could indicate the transmitter is in an error state. Disable Control on Over Range: Should parameter control be disabled if a transmitter is reading over range values. This could indicate the transmitter is in an error state. Server Communications: Allow communications with the website. Cancel Button: Discard changes and return to the settings screen. Submit Button: Save changes and return to the settings screen. [00168] The USB Data Download screen may comprise the following parameters. No USB Drive Message: No USB drive has been found to download data to. Start Date/Time: Start date/time for the data to download. Adjust Start Time (Hours): Increment/Decrement the start time hours. Adjust Start Time (Minutes): Increment/Decrement the start time minutes. End Date/Time: End date/time for the data to download. Adjust End Time (Hours): Increment/Decrement the end time hours. Adjust End Time (Minutes): Increment/Decrement the end time minutes. Download Transmitter Values: If selected transmitter values will be downloaded to the USB drive. Download Log Files: If selected log messages will be download to the USB drive. Download as Single File: Download data as a single CSV file. Download as Daily Files: Download data as multiple daily CSV files. Found USB Drive Message: A USB drive has been found. Download to USB: Download selected data to USB drive. Submit Button: Returns to settings screen.

[00169] The Log Messages Screen may comprise the following parameters. Start Date/Time: Start date/time for the log messages to view. Adjust Start Time (Hours): Increment/Decrement the start time hours. Adjust Start Time (Minutes): Increment/Decrement the start time minutes. End Date/Time: End date/time for the log messages to view. Adjust End Time (Hours): Increment/Decrement the end time hours. Adjust End Time (Minutes): Increment/Decrement the end time minutes. Update Log Messages: Update the screen, need to tap here after changing start/end date/times. Log Messages: The list of log messages. First Page: Show the first page of log messages, in the selected date range. Previous Page: Show the previous page of log messages, in the selected date range. Next Page: Show the next page of log messages, in the selected date range. Last Page: Show the last page of log messages, in the selected date range. View Selected Log Message: Show details of the highlight log message. Log Message Date/Time: The date/time of the log message. Log Message User: The user generated the event. Log Message Level: The priority level of the log message. Log Message Entity: The sub-system that generated the log message. Log Message Details: The log message's message. Close Log Message: Close the log message details popup. Submit Button: Return to the settings screen. [00170] The System Status Screen may comprise the following parameters. General Information: The controller's serial number and software/hardware versions. Resource Status: Current system Disk/RAM/CPU usage. 3G Modem Status: The 3G modem's IP address, subnet mask and MAC address. 3G Modem Signal: The 3G modem's signal strength. Ethernet/LAN Status: The Ethernet/LAN IP address, subnet mask and MAC address. DNS Servers: Configured DNS servers, either from manual configuration or DHCP. Remote Server Status: Status of the communications with the FreshView webserver. Submit Button: Return to the settings screen.

[00171] Further advantages and improvements may very well be made to the present invention without deviating from its scope. Although the invention has been shown and described in what is considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiment, it is recognized that departures may be made therefrom within the scope and spirit of the invention, which is not to be limited to the details disclosed herein, but is to be accorded the full scope of the claims so as to embrace any and all equivalent devices and apparatus. Any discussion of the prior art throughout the specification should in no way be considered as an admission that such prior ait is widely known or forms part of the common general knowledge in this field.

[00172] In the summary of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word "comprising" is used in the sense of "including", i.e. the features specified may be associated with further features in various embodiments of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS: What is Claimed is:

1. A method for monitoring produce ripening in a produce environment, the method comprising:

providing the received readings to a controller; and

displaying the received readings to thereby monitor the produce ripening.

2. The method of Claim 1 wherein the received readings are displayed on the controller.

3. The method of Claim 1 or Claim 2 wherein the controller provides the received readings to a remote computing device for display on the remote computing device.

4. The method of any one of the previous Claims wherein the method further comprises displaying the received readings as a graphical display.

5. The method of any previous Claim wherein the method further comprises controlling produce ripening, the method comprising:

receiving at the controller one or more target readings;

sending the one or more target readings to at least one control module, the at least one control module connected to and controlling a heater, a cooler and a gas delivery module, the gas delivery module comprising an ethylene source, and the at least one control module controlling the output of at least one of the heater, the cooler and the gas delivery module to reach the target reading in the produce environment to thereby control the produce ripening.

6. The method of Claim 5 wherein the target readings are input directly into the controller.

7. The method of Claim 5 or Claim 6 wherein the target readings are provided to the controller by the server computer and received by the server computer from a remote computing device.

8. The method of any one of the previous Claims further comprising receiving readings from two or more monitor modules, each monitor module receiving readings from a separate and respective produce environment.

9. The method of the first aspect may further comprise receiving one or more target readings for two or more monitor modules, each respective monitor module monitoring a separate and respective produce environment.

10. A device for monitoring produce ripening, the device comprising:

11. A device for remote monitoring of produce ripening, the device comprising:

12. The device of Claim 10 or Claim 1 1 wherein the controller further comprises an input for directly receiving one or more target readings.

13. The device of Claim 11 wherein one or more target readings are provided to the controller by the server computer, the server computer having received the one or more target readings from the remote computing device.

14. The of any one of Claims 10 to 13 wherein the device further comprises:

15. The device of any one of Claims 10 to 14 wherein the device further comprise two or more monitor modules, each monitor module receiving readings from a separate and respective produce environment.

16. The device of any one of Claims 10 to 15 wherein the device further comprises two or more control modules, each control module connected to and controlling a heater, a cooler and a gas delivery module operating on a separate and respective produce environment.

17. A system for monitoring and/or controlling produce ripening, the system comprising:

a display for displaying the received readings.

18. The system of Claim 17 wherein the display is comprised on the controller.

19. The system of Claim 17 wherein the controller is connected to or further comprises a server computer for communicating the readings to a remote computing device; and the display is comprised on the remote computing device.

20. The system of any one of Claims 17 to 19 further comprising:

the controller recei ving one or more target readings; and

at least one control module for receiving the one or more target readings from the controller and controlling a heater, a cooler and a gas delivery module, the gas delivery module comprising an ethylene source, and the at least one control module controlling the output of the at least one of the heater, the cooler and the gas delivery module to reach the target reading to thereby control the produce ripening.

21. The method, device or system according to any one of the previous Claims wherein the monitor module further comprises a produce temperature transmitter providing the temperature of the produce.