Portable Colour Meter – Precision Colour Index Detection for Jute Fibre

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Why is Colour Index Important?

The Colour Index of jute fibre is a critical parameter that directly influences its grading, pricing, and industrial application. Traditionally, assessing the colour and quality of jute relied on subjective human judgment, leading to inconsistencies and errors.

The Portable Colour Meter eliminates these challenges by providing instant, accurate, and standardized grading of jute fibre colour.

1. Colour as an Indicator of Fibre Quality:

• ​The natural colour of jute varies due to factors like growth conditions, retting process, and post-harvest handling.
• A brighter golden or light brown shade generally indicates superior quality, while darker or dull fibres may suggest poor retting, microbial activity, or excessive moisture absorption.

2. Challenges in Traditional Colour Assessment

Historically, jute classification has been done through visual inspection, leading to:

• Subjective Judgments: Different evaluators may perceive colour differently, causing inconsistencies.
• Lack of Standardization: Without a fixed reference, quality grading may vary across markets.
• Manual Errors: Lighting conditions, fatigue, and experience levels impact accuracy.

3. Role of the Portable Colour Meter

The Portable Colour Meter eliminates these challenges by providing instant, objective, and standardized readings based on the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) colour grading system.

1. Accurate & Repeatable Readings – Eliminates human subjectivity.
2. Instant Digital Output – Saves time in quality control processes.
3. Supports Fair Trade Practices – Ensures farmers and traders get the right price.
4. Industry & Export Compliance – Helps manufacturers meet international quality norms.

With this device, jute mills, traders, and researchers can make data-driven decisions, ensuring high quality output, fair pricing, and global market competitiveness.

Key Advantages of the Portable Colour Meter

• Objective & Consistent Measurement: Removes human error and ensures unbiased colour grading.
• BIS-Compliant Readings: Follows ICAR-approved standards for industry-wide acceptance.
• Time-Efficient: Provides a real-time Colour Index value in seconds, boosting productivity.
• Easy to Operate: Requires minimal training and can be used by farmers, traders, and manufacturers alike.
• Portable & Lightweight: Ideal for use in jute mills, research labs, procurement centers, and farms.

How the Device Works:

1. Place the Device: Position the Portable Colour Meter on the jute fibre sample.
2. Activate Measurement: Press the test button to initiate the colour analysis.
3. Instant Readout: The Colour Index value is displayed on the digital screen.
4. Decision Making: Based on the Colour Index, the user can determine the quality grade of the fibre. 
   (BIS APPROVAL DOCUMENT WITH GRADE DEPENDING ON COLOUR INDEX SHOULD BE ATTACHED)

Who Can Use This Device?

• Jute Farmers – To evaluate the quality of their produce before selling.
• Traders & Exporters – To classify and grade jute before shipping.
• Jute Mills & Manufacturers – To maintain high production quality.
• Research Institutions – To study and improve jute processing techniques.

Applications

• Jute Processing Industry – Maintain consistency in fibre grading
• Textile & Weaving Industry – Enhance production quality
• Agricultural Research – Improve fibre classification for better yield
• Supply Chain & Export – Ensure international quality standards

Technical Specification:

Sensor Type:                              PV Cells

Measurement Range:               20-110(index)

Tolerance:                                  ±2%

Power Source:                           5V DC

Display Type:                              0.96” OLED

Wireless Connectivity:              NA

Measurement Spot Size:         70mm

Measurement Time:                 <2Sec

USB Interface:                           Micro USB

Battery Type:                             Lithium-Ion

Battery Life:                               >10000 Hrs

Charging Time:                         <3 Hrs

Firmware Version:                   V1.0.1

Build Material:                         PLA Plastic

Weight :                                    ~250 grams

Dimensions:                            80 x 80 x 125 mm

Important Instructions

1. Charge the Device: Ensure the device is fully charged before use. A low battery may affect readings.
2. Charging Time: The charging time is <3hrs. Please do not Overcharge.
3. Sensor Lens: Do not touch Sensors at any point of time.
4. Avoid Direct Sunlight: Perform measurements in a controlled lighting environment to prevent external reflections.
5. After use: Close the lid immediately after use.
6. Turn Off the Device After Use: This helps conserve battery life.
7. Position the Device Correctly: Place the sensor directly on the jute fibre surface, ensuring full contact.
8. Hold Steady During Measurement: Avoid movement while the scan is in progress (takes ~2 seconds).
9. Optimal Temperature Range: Use the device within 10°C – 50°C for best results.
10. Keep Away from Water & Chemicals: The device is not waterproof. Use in a dry, clean workspace.

Troubleshooting tips:(every Q&A will have a i=reference image alongwith)

1. Device Not Powering On?

• Check battery charge level and recharge if needed.
• If the issue persists, contact technical support.

2. No Reading or Inconsistent Values?

• Ensure the sensor is placed properly on the fibre.
• Check for dust, moisture, or scratches on the sensor lens.
• Restart the device and recalibrate if necessary.

3. Device not Charging?

• Ensure the slider is in the right position.
• Ensure your adaptor is connected properly to the power socket.
• Check cable for wear and tear.

4. Port Damaged or Broken?

• Contact support at www.mechatronrobotics.com/products/ninfet-portablecolourmeter

Safety Precautions

1. Do Not Disassemble – Opening the device may void the warranty.
2. Do Not Drop the Device – Handle with care to avoid sensor misalignment.
3. Do Not Use in Extreme Conditions – Keep away from excessive heat, cold, or magnetic fields.
4. Do Not Overcharge - Overcharging leads to damage to battery. Do not charge it full night.