CAC-01: Efficient Bean-to-Bar Chocolate Manufacturing Plant

Brief description of the organization

We produce fine cacao in Colombia for importation to North America aiming to manufacture from bean to bar chocolate made with two ingredients only.


Problem area

How to improve space and processes to manufacture chocolate from bean to bar.


Main objectives

  • Determine the most efficient space to layout a small scale (20 MT/year) manufacturing plant of chocolate starting from fine cacao beans;
  • Design, optimize or complement current equipment availability to automatize the plant according to the foot print of the space determined.

Scope of work

Literature review for: use of manufacturing space in real estate regulations, analysis of the state of the art equipment to process from bean to bar chocolate.


Deliverables

  • Report
  • New protocols/processes
  • Plant manufacturing layout and Design of automated equipment to manufacture chocolate from the bean

Team Meeting Frequency

Weekly


Skills and Training Required

Industrial engineering skills such as research, machining, cost, processes and manufacturing. Also, cooking, baking understanding/mindset is important.


Resources required

Computer and software for designing and running automated models.


NDA or a commercialization agreement for this project?

Yes