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Quality Optimised Process (QOP)

Description
The Quality Optimised Process (QOP) Simulator is a process modelling tool that uses science based algorithms and data to link the science of meat quality with various technologies used in a processing plant.

The algorithms are embedded within a computer model or 'Simulator' which can be used to develop an optimum solution for various processing options utilising current and potential technologies.

Benefits
Potential benefits of the QOP Simulator include: 

  • A useful tool for modelling and predicting processor specific meat quality parameters for new technologies as they are integrated into a processor's current operations. 
  • Where applicable, ability to support and provide feedback on an on-going basis to processors, so that these new technologies are used in an optimal fashion.

As such, the QOP Simulator may be useful as a marketing tool by commercialisers in demonstrating the value of new technologies.

From a researcher and consultant perspective, the benefits of the Simulator include:

  • Setting of technical parameters within projects. The model could make experimental work more cost effective. For example, instead of a large empirical study of chilling rates on a variety of cuts one would use the Simulator to look at the effect of airspeed, temperature and humidity on heat transfer rates. 
  • Post project cost/benefit evaluation. The model could allow the benefits of process changes recommended in a project report to be evaluated in-silica in terms of collateral impacts (which arise because we are dealing with a complex system) and processing cost benefits.

Availability 
The QOP Simulator is currently being enhanced for the latest meat science data relating to the new technologies being developed by MLA. Furthermore, the model is also being updated to cover a broader range of Australian processing situations.

The completed model will be trialled during 2010.

More Information
The following graph shows the relationship between chilling rate and stimulation on shear force.