Portable coconut shelling device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a compact and portable coconut shelling device [100] designed for efficient removal of husk from coconuts in post-harvest operations. The device comprises a base frame [108] equipped with integrated wheels and detachable handles [107] for easy mobility, a direct gear-driven mechanism mounted on a gearbox stand [109] for powering roller assemblies, and modular components such as replaceable roller segments in the knife roller shaft assembly [103] and self-aligning bearing blocks [106] for durability and ease of maintenance. The roller assemblies, including the pinch roller shaft [101], paddle shaft [102], and knife roller shaft [103], work in coordination to ensure consistent and precise shelling without damaging the coconut. The machine consumes 0.85 KWH and 0.45 KWH in single phase and three phase electric motor, respectively per 1320 coconuts and processes one coconut in less than three seconds.

Description

[0001] PORTABLE COCONUT SHELLING DEVICE

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION:

[0003] The present invention relates to agricultural machinery and devices, particularly to a compact and portable coconut shelling device for efficient husk removal.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:

[0005] At present, many industries such as oil production, coconut milk processing, desiccated coconut powder manufacturing, and coconut trade rely on manual methods for removing coconut husks, despite the availability of automated machines. Existing technologies face several challenges, including limited durability, ergonomic inefficiencies, and difficulties in replacing worn-out components promptly. Additionally, these machines often result in incomplete husk removal, breakage of coconuts, or operational failures after processing a few thousand coconuts. Their significant weight and size make them challenging to transport, requiring specialized equipment like cranes or hoists for loading and unloading, which increases costs and complicates portability. Numerous prior art references and reports have documented these issues, highlighting the need for more efficient and practical solutions in this domain.

[0006] PH1 / 2018 / 050200 discloses the portable coconut dehusking machine with detachable blade assembly is disclosed which comprises a frame being defined by a trolley-type structure with vertical and horizontal support members for static equilibrium of the invention.

[0007] IN201941039457 discloses a nutmeg deshellerwhere in nutmeg is fed through the hopper and filter arrangement attached to the top of machine, whereby primary filtration takes place there and the nutmeg is separated according to its size and then falls on the two rollers

[0008] However, the coconut shelling machines are bulky and involve machineries hard to move from place to one another with limited performance.

[0009] Accordingly, there is a requirement of a coconut shelling device portable, light weighted with improved performance indices. OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0010] One or more of the problems of the conventional prior art may be overcome by various embodiments of the system and methods of the present invention.

[0011] The primary objective of the present invention is to create a compact and portable coconut shelling device, designed for easy transportation without the need for cranes, hoists, or trucks, thereby reducing operational costs.

[0012] Another object of the invention is to streamline the component arrangement, incorporating a modular design with detachable handles and wheels, ensuring enhanced portability and adaptability for various farm environments.

[0013] A further object of the invention is to improve the efficiency of the shelling process by utilizing a direct worm gear-driven mechanism, reducing the need for sprockets and chains, and lowering maintenance and replacement costs.

[0014] One another object of the present invention is to simplify the assembly and maintenance of the device by incorporating self-aligning bearing blocks and pre-drilled beam plates, allowing for quick adjustments and replacements.

[0015] A further object of the present invention is to optimize energy consumption, achieving high productivity by processing coconuts in less than three seconds per unit while maintaining a power efficiency of 0.85 KWH and 0.45 KWH in single phase and three phase electric motor, respectively per 1320 coconuts.

[0016] Another object of the invention is to ensure consistent shelling quality by integrating precisely configured roller assemblies and spike tooth mechanisms, preventing damage to the coconuts during processing.

[0017] A further object of the present invention is to achieve a durable and robust structure by eliminating unnecessary fasteners and using welded outlet plates, ensuring rigidity and long- lasting performance in demanding agricultural conditions. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0018] Thus, according to the basic aspect of the present invention, there is provided a portable coconut shelling device, comprising: a base frame

[0108] configured as a support structure, mounted on a two wheel and tire assembly, with a detachable handle fixed to one end for ease of movement; a pinch roller shaft assembly

[0101] positioned between two beam plates

[0105] , the roller shaft being rotatably mounted via a self-aligning bearing block

[0106] ; a paddle shaft assembly

[0102] located above the pinch roller shaft assembly, mounted parallel to it and secured by the beam plates, with a grooved cylindrical surface; a knife roller shaft assembly

[0103] arranged adjacent to the pinch roller shaft assembly, mounted via the self-aligning bearing block

[0106] , and directly connected to a worm gear transmission system

[0109] for power transfer; a spike tooth mechanism

[0104] fixed at the rear end of the roller assemblies, mounted between the beam plates to facilitate the ejection of husk material; a plurality of beam plates

[0105] rigidly attached to the base frame, each having predrilled holes to secure the roller shafts and outlet plates; a gearbox and motor mounting stand

[0109] positioned at one side of the base frame for supporting the motor and gear assembly; and a detachable steel handle

[0107] secured at the opposite end of the motor to enable manual repositioning of the device.

[0019] Another aspect of the present invention wherein the gripping roller assembly comprises serrated rollers, mounted between two beam plates, and rotatably supported by self-aligning bearing blocks. Said assembly securely grips the coconut and rotates in opposition to the knife roller assembly. The design ensures that the husk is efficiently stripped off, irrespective of the coconut's size or shape. The serrated surface enhances traction, ensuring smooth processing without damaging the coconut shell. Another aspect of the present invention wherein the paddle shaft assembly is positioned parallel to the gripping roller assembly and made of a grooved cylindrical surface, providing controlled pressure to guide coconuts towards the rollers. Said assembly is constructed to accommodate coconuts of varying sizes, ensuring uniform feeding and preventing jamming. Its grooved design minimizes wear and tear while maintaining a steady flow of coconuts for processing.

[0020] Another aspect of the present invention wherein the knife roller shaft assembly is directly connected to the worm gear transmission system via a hollow shaft, eliminating the need for sprockets and chains. Said design saves space and reduces the cost of spares while ensuring smooth power transfer. The knife roller shaft, mounted on self-aligning bearing blocks, efficiently detaches and removes the husk with precision. Its robust construction enhances durability and minimizes maintenance requirements.

[0021] Another aspect of the present invention wherein the spike tooth mechanism is a single durable plate positioned at the rear of the roller assemblies. It is mounted between the beam plates and facilitates the smooth expulsion of separated husk material. The design ensures efficient ejection without clogging or interruptions during the shelling process. The spike tooth mechanism is constructed for longevity and consistent performance under continuous use.

[0022] Another aspect of the present invention wherein the beam plates are integral to the device’s structural integrity, providing mounting support for all functional components. Pre -drilled holes are included to accommodate the roller shafts, ensuring precise alignment. The beam plates are welded to the outlet plates for added rigidity, eliminating the need for fasteners and reducing overall assembly costs. They also house the motor mounting system, contributing to the device’s compact design.

[0023] Another aspect of the present invention wherein the self-aligning bearing unit is constructed using sealed roller bearings that reduce friction and ensure smooth rotation of the roller shafts. The unit maintains a uniform gap between the rollers, enabling consistent shelling performance. Its self-aligning feature compensates for minor misalignments, ensuring operational stability and reducing maintenance downtime. Another aspect of the present invention wherein the gear transmission system uses spur gears to transmit power directly from the motor to the knife roller shaft. Said configuration eliminates the need for intermediate sprockets and chains, optimizing space and improving energy efficiency. The design ensures precise torque transfer, reducing mechanical losses and enhancing the overall productivity of the device.

[0024] Another aspect of the present invention wherein the husk and coconut outlet plates are permanently welded to the beam plates, providing enhanced structural stability. Said procedure eliminates the need for fasteners, simplifying the assembly process and reducing production costs. The welded design ensures that the outlet plates remain securely attached during operation, preventing vibrations or misalignments.

[0025] Another aspect of the present invention wherein the coconut shelling device is optimized to achieve high productivity and energy efficiency. It processes coconuts at an average speed of less than three seconds per unit and consumes only 0.85 KWH and 0.45 KWH in single phase and three phase electric motor, respectively per 1320 coconuts. Said performance ensures low operational costs while maintaining a high throughput. The device’s compact design and robust components contribute to its consistent performance over prolonged use.

[0026] Another aspect of the present invention wherein the detachable steel handle is mounted at the base of the frame, opposite the motor, allowing for easy manual repositioning of the device. It is made of durable steel pipes; the handle is designed for comfortable handling and can be removed when not needed. Said feature adds to the portability and versatility of the device.

[0027] Another aspect of the present invention wherein the gear and motor mounting stand is strategically positioned on the base frame, optimizing the device's footprint. Its compact design ensures efficient space utilization and provides a secure foundation for the motor and gearbox assembly. Said arrangement enhances the overall stability and portability of the device, making it suitable for farm environments.

[0028] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] Figure 1 illustrates an exploded view illustrating the pinch roller shaft assembly

[0101] , detailing its placement and components within the coconut shelling device, according to the present invention. Figure 2 shows a detailed view of the paddle shaft assembly

[0102] , showcasing its design and role in guiding coconuts towards the rollers, according to the present invention.

[0030] Figure 3 depicts the knife roller shaft assembly

[0103] , highlighting its configuration and direct connection to the gear transmission system.

[0031] Figure 4 displays a view of the spike tooth mechanism

[0104] , illustrating its structure and function in ejecting husk material.

[0032] Figure 5 illustrates a drawing of the beam plate assembly

[0105] , showing its pre-drilled holes and welded outlet plates for securing functional components.

[0033] Figure 6 shows a schematic of the self-aligning bearing block

[0106] , displaying its role in supporting the roller shafts and maintaining smooth rotation.

[0034] Figure 7 shows a detailed representation of the detachable steel handle

[0107] , used for the manual movement of the device across different locations.

[0035] Figure 8 illustrates an isometric view of the base frame

[0108] , depicting the mounting points for all key components, along with the two-wheel assembly for mobility.

[0036] Figure 9 shows a detailed view of the gearbox and motor mounting stand

[0109] , showing the compact design for optimal space utilization.

[0037] Figure 10 illustrates the fully assembled viewof the coconut shelling device

[0100] , showcasing the arrangement of all components and the overall compact design.

[0038] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION WITH REFERENCE TO THE ACCOMPANYING FIGURES

[0039] The present invention offers a coconut shelling device that is both compact and portable, providing an affordable, efficient, and safe alternative. The machine is powered by an electric motor but can also operate with a petrol engine in areas with limited or no access to electricity. Referring to Figure 10, the machine is designed with all its key components mounted on a central support frame

[0108] , This frame acts as the structural foundation, securing the functional assemblies. The machine is enclosed by mounting plates

[0105] , which provide support and house components such as the control switches, motor protection systems, and roller assemblies. The device's operation involves the coconut being fed through the paddle shaft assembly

[0102] at the top, after which the coconut is processed by the pinch roller shaft

[0101] and knife roller shaft

[0103] , which rotate in opposite directions to effectively strip and eject the husk. A spike tooth mechanism

[0104] ensures smooth ejection of husk material.

[0040] Referring to Figure 1, a pinch roller shaft assembly

[0101] comprises a cylindrical shaft equipped with gripping teeth and spacers. These teeth are designed to firmly grip the husk of the coconut while working in coordination with the knife roller shaft. The materials used for the rollers are selected for their durability, such as heat-treated alloys, ensuring minimal wear and extended lifespan. Locking screws and precise machining allow for easy assembly and maintenance.

[0041] Referring to Figure 2, a paddle shaft assembly

[0102] includes cylindrical rollers covered with a grooved surface to accommodate varying coconut sizes. The shaft is designed for uniform feeding and pressure application, ensuring the coconut is directed smoothly towards the processing rollers. Replacement of worn paddles is simple and quick, facilitated by a locking mechanism that minimizes the need for specialized tools.

[0042] Referring to Figure 3, a knife roller shaft assembly

[0103] is a high-precision component directly connected to a gear transmission system, eliminating the need for traditional chain drives. The rollers are designed with detachable cutting segments, allowing specific parts to be replaced instead of the entire shaft. This modular approach reduces downtime and maintenance costs. The knife roller material is heat-treated for added durability and designed to resist wear in high-friction environments.

[0043] Referring to Figure 4, a spike tooth mechanism

[0104] is designed as a single rigid plate with ejector teeth that facilitate the smooth removal of husk material from the processing area. This mechanism is mounted securely between the mounting plates and features spring-loaded elements to ensure continuous operation without clogging. Referring to Figure 5, the mounting plates

[0105] are precision-engineered with slots and holes to accommodate all functional components. These plates ensure the proper alignment of the roller shafts and provide structural stability. The plates are coated with anti-corrosion treatments and feature reinforced tie rods that maintain uniform spacing between the plates, preventing misalignment. Additionally, the plates are designed to simplify the assembly and disassembly of internal components for repairs or replacements.

[0044] Referring to Figure 6, a bearing block

[0106] supports the rotating shafts and ensures smooth operation by preventing slippage. It is equipped with sealed bearings to reduce friction and prevent contamination from dust or moisture. The self-aligning feature compensates for minor misalignments, maintaining consistent performance even under high vibration conditions.

[0045] Referring to Figure 7, the detachable steel handle

[0107] is mounted at the base of the frame, opposite the motor, allowing for easy manual repositioning of the device. It is made of durable steel pipes; the handle is designed for comfortable handling and can be removed when not needed. Said feature adds to the portability and versatility of the device.

[0046] Referring to Figure 8, support frame

[0108] serves as the backbone of the device, housing all major components, including the motor, gearbox, and roller assemblies. It is equipped with wheels for easy transport and stainless-steel handles for manual repositioning. The frame is reinforced to withstand operational stresses and designed for portability, enabling the machine to be moved manually without additional equipment.

[0047] Referring to Figure 9, a gear transmission system

[0109] connects the motor directly to the knife roller shaft via worm gear box. Said process eliminates the need for traditional chain drives, reducing mechanical losses and improving energy efficiency. The system is compact and mounted securely to the support frame to ensure stability during operation.

[0048] TECHNICAL ADVANCEMENTS:

[0049] The coconut shelling device achieves an operational efficiency of processing one coconut in less than three seconds, significantly increasing throughput compared to traditional methods. The present invention consumes only 0.85 KWH and 0.45 KWH in single phase and three phase electric motor, respectively per 1320 coconuts, making it highly energy efficient.

[0050] Additionally, the modular design reduces downtime during maintenance, while the direct gear transmission system minimizes mechanical losses, ensuring optimal performance with reduced operational costs.

[0051] The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained with reference to the nonlimiting embodiments in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.

[0052] While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the components and component parts of the preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated that many embodiments can be made and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodiments without departing from the principles of the disclosure. These and other changes in the preferred embodiment as well as other embodiments of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the disclosure and not as a limitation.

Claims

AMENDED CLAIMS received by the International Bureau on 04 November 2025 (04.11 .2025)Claims

1. A portable coconut shelling device, comprising: a base frame [108] configured as a support structure, mounted on a two wheel and tire assembly, with a detachable handle [107] fixed to one end for ease of movement; a pinch roller shaft assembly [101] comprising of a cylindrical shaft with gripping teeth and spacers positioned between two beam plates [105], the pinch roller shaft assembly [101] being rotatably mounted via a self-aligning bearing block [106]; a paddle shaft assembly [102] with cylindrical rollers covered with a grooved surface is located above the pinch roller shaft assembly [101], mounted parallel to it and secured by the beam plates [105]; a knife roller shaft assembly [103] arranged adjacent to the pinch roller shaft assembly [101], mounted via the selfaligning bearing block [106], and directly connected to a gear transmission system [109] for power transfer; and a spike tooth mechanism [104] fixed at rear end of the pinch roller shaft assembly [101], mounted between the beam plates [105] to facilitate ejection of husk material, wherein the beam plates [105] are rigidly attached to the base frame [108], each having predrilled holes to secure the roller shafts and husk and coconut outlet plates, said husk and coconut outlet plates are permanently welded to the beam plates [105] providing structural stability, wherein the self-aligning bearing block [106] houses sealed roller bearings to minimize friction and maintains a uniform gap between the rollers, enabling consistent shelling performance, wherein the gear transmission system [109] connects a motor directly to the knife roller shaft assembly [103] via a worm gear box, and wherein the portable coconut shelling device achieves an average processing time of under three seconds per coconut and consumes 0.85 KWH and 0.45 KWH in single phase and three phase electric motor, respectively per 1320 coconuts.

2. The portable coconut shelling device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the gripping teeth of the pinch roller shaft assembly[101] efficiently strips the husk when rotated in opposing directions.

3. The portable coconut shelling device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the paddle shaft assembly [102] provides controlled pressure to guide coconuts towards the pinch roller shaft assembly [101], said grooved cylindrical surface rollers maintains a steady flow of coconuts for processing.

4. The portable coconut shelling device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the spike tooth mechanism [104] is a single rigid plate with ejector teeth and spring loaded elements to eject husk debris from the coconut shelling device, ensuring continuous operation without clogging.

5. The portable coconut shelling device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the gear transmission system [109] utilizes spur gears for efficient torque transfer, reducing energy consumption while enhancing operational efficiency.

6. The portable coconut shelling device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the detachable handle [107] is secured at the opposite end of the motor to enable manual repositioning of the portable coconut shelling device.

7. The portable coconut shelling device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the gear transmission system [109] and motor are mounted on the base frame [108], optimizing the coconut shelling device's footprint and enhancing the portability of said device.

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