Semi-automatic tapioca harvester

Abstract

A semi-automatic tapioca harvesting machine consisting of: i. a rack (05) and a pinion (04) which enable the vertical movement of a clamping arrangement (06); ii. an adjustable clamping mechanism (06) with a fixed and an adjustable clamping jaw for gripping tapioca sticks of different sizes; and iii. a handwheel (07) for manually adjusting the position of the adjustable clamping jaw.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to machines and systems for harvesting tapioca. More specifically, it is a tapioca harvesting machine that harvests tapioca using a rack and pinion mechanism. BACKGROUND

[0002] Tapioca is obtained from the cassava root, a tuber originally from South America but now cultivated in tropical regions worldwide. Cassava is known for its high starch content, which is used to make products such as tapioca pearls, flour, and starch. These are widely used in cooking, baking, and as a thickener in many foods. Tapioca starch is also used in the paper and textile industries. Cassava is a versatile crop important for both food production and industrial purposes worldwide.

[0003] The current state of tapioca harvesting machinery presents several challenges. These machines are highly specialized and expensive, making them unaffordable for small and medium-sized farmers. Furthermore, their size requires a lot of space, which is often unavailable on smaller farms. Manual labor further complicates the harvesting process, as opening the soil and pulling out the cassava roots is labor-intensive and time-consuming. The high cost and complexity of operating these machines, as well as the physical strain of manual labor, make efficient tapioca harvesting difficult for smallholder farmers.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need for a semi-automatic tapioca harvester to reduce the time and manual labor required. The present invention overcomes the above-mentioned problems, limitations, and disadvantages in a simple manner. OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The main object of the present invention is to provide a semi-automatic tapioca harvesting machine for easy tapioca harvesting.

[0006] Another aim of the present invention is to reduce the time and manual effort required for tapioca harvesting.

[0007] Another object of the present invention is to increase the efficiency and productivity of the harvesting process at an affordable price.

[0008] These and other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. SUMMARY

[0009] The various embodiments of the present invention disclose a semi-automatic tapioca harvester that reduces manual effort and time at an affordable price. The machine consists of an electric motor, a rack and pinion gear, and an adjustable clamp. The motor is connected to a gearbox, which in turn is coupled to a pinion gear. This configuration enables the rotational motion of the motor to be transmitted through the gear system, thus facilitating the effective operation of the harvesting mechanism.

[0010] The rack and pinion mechanism is housed in an external support structure and enables vertical movement of the inner frame. The rack is a linear gear that meshes with a pinion gear at the top, which rotates via a motor-driven system. This pinion moves the rack up and down based on the controlled rotation of the motor. The vertical movement of the rack allows for precise adjustment of the harvester's clamping system. This allows for individual stalk gripping, while the pinion gear ensures smooth, controlled vertical movement during operation, thus reducing stress on the mechanical components.

[0011] The adjustable clamping mechanism features a fixed and an adjustable jaw for gripping stems of different sizes. The adjustable jaw is equipped with a needle that moves inward to pierce the stem, ensuring a secure grip against slippage. A handwheel controls the movement of the adjustable jaw and allows for precise adjustment by turning a connected threaded rod. This movement moves the adjustable jaw closer to or further away from the fixed jaw, depending on the stem diameter. The clamp is mounted on a vertical rack that moves up and down using a pinion gear. The vertical movement of the rack securely holds the clamped stem, allowing for efficient lifting and pulling. The mechanism ensures a firm grip for stems of different sizes and diameters during the harvesting process.

[0012] These and other aspects of the embodiments described herein will become more fully understood in conjunction with the following description and the accompanying drawings. While the following descriptions illustrate preferred embodiments and numerous specific details, they are for illustrative purposes only and are not limiting.

[0013] Numerous changes and modifications are possible within the scope of the embodiments described herein without departing from the spirit thereof. The embodiments described herein include all such modifications. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

[0014] Further objects, features, and advantages will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description of the preferred embodiment and the accompanying drawings. In these drawings: Fig. the isometric view of the semi-automatic tapioca harvester according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] The specific features of the present invention are shown in some drawings but not in others. This is for clarity only, since each feature according to the present invention can be combined with all or some of the other features. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] The various embodiments, as well as further developments and features, are explained in the following detailed description with reference to non-limiting details. The depiction of processing techniques for known components is omitted in order not to unnecessarily obscure the embodiments described herein. The examples used herein are intended to facilitate understanding of the possible applications of the embodiments described herein and to enable those skilled in the art to implement the embodiments described herein. The examples should therefore not be construed as limiting the scope of application of the embodiments described herein.

[0017] The various embodiments of the present invention describe a semi-automatic tapioca harvesting machine that reduces manual effort and time at an affordable price. The machine consists of an electric motor (01), a rack (05) and pinion (04), and an adjustable clamp (06). The motor is connected to a gear (02), which in turn is coupled to a pinion (04). This configuration enables the transmission of the rotary motion of the motor (01) via the gear system, thus ensuring effective operation of the harvesting mechanism.

[0018] The rack and pinion mechanism (05) is housed in an external support structure and enables vertical movement of the inner frame. The rack and pinion mechanism (05) is a linear gear connected at the top to a pinion gear (04), which rotates via a motor-driven system (01). This pinion gear (04) moves the rack and pinion mechanism (05) up and down based on the controlled rotation of the motor (01). The vertical movement of the rack and pinion mechanism (05) allows for precise adjustment of the harvester's clamping system. This enables individual stalk gripping, while the pinion gear (04) provides smooth, controlled vertical movement during operation, thus reducing stress on the mechanical components.

[0019] The adjustable clamping mechanism (06) features a fixed and an adjustable jaw for gripping stems of different sizes. The adjustable jaw is equipped with a needle that moves inward to pierce the stem, ensuring a secure grip against slipping. A handwheel (07) controls the movement of the adjustable jaw and allows precise adjustment by turning a connected threaded rod. This movement brings the adjustable jaw closer to or further away from the fixed jaw, depending on the stem diameter. The clamp (06) is mounted on a vertical rack (05) that moves up and down using a pinion gear (04). The vertical movement of the rack (05) securely holds the clamped stem, enabling efficient lifting and pulling.The mechanism ensures firm support for stems of different sizes and diameters during the harvesting process.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the semi-automatic tapioca harvester comprises an electric motor (01) that converts electrical energy from the battery (03) into mechanical movement. When activated, the motor (01) drives the pinion (04) and causes it to rotate. This rotation moves the rack (05) vertically, raising or lowering the clamped tapioca stem.

[0021] In one embodiment, the semi-automatic tapioca harvester comprises a gearbox (02) that efficiently transmits power from the electric motor (01) to the pinion (04). This gearbox (02) regulates the speed and torque of the pinion (04), thus ensuring optimal rotation for the vertical movement of the rack (05). Through the smooth and precise movement, the gearbox improves the machine's ability to effectively raise and lower the clamped tapioca stems.

[0022] Fig. shows the isometric view of the semi-automatic tapioca harvester according to an embodiment of the present invention. This machine features a slide rail (08) that plays a crucial role in the vertical movement of the rack (05) and pinion system (04). The slide rail (08) ensures smooth operation by minimizing friction and ensuring the correct alignment of the rack (05). This design feature increases the precision and efficiency of the harvesting process and enables effective raising and lowering of the clamped tapioca stems.

[0023] Fig.shows the isometric view of the semi-automatic tapioca harvester according to an embodiment of the present invention. The machine is equipped with rotatable wheels (09) that allow easy movement across the field. These wheels support the weight of the machine and ensure smooth gliding over varying terrain. Their design makes it easier for the operator to precisely position the harvester on different tapioca plants, thus improving the overall efficiency of the harvesting process. In one embodiment of the present invention, the handwheel (07) enables manual control of the adjustable components of the semi-automatic tapioca harvester. By turning the handwheel (07), the operator can easily adjust the position of the clamp (06) to accommodate different stalk sizes. This mechanism allows for precise adjustments and ensures a secure hold of the tapioca stalks during the harvesting process.The handwheel (06) is ergonomically positioned and thus easily accessible for the operator while operating the machine. This improves the functionality and user-friendliness of the machine and enables efficient use in the field.

[0024] In one embodiment of the present invention, the handlebar (12) is integrated into the semi-automatic tapioca harvester to facilitate control and maneuvering. It allows the operator to guide the machine smoothly across the field. The ergonomic design ensures comfort and reduces fatigue during prolonged use. The handlebar (12) is positioned for optimal leverage and allows for quick adjustments and effective steering, improving the overall usability and efficiency of the harvester. In one embodiment of the present invention, the semi-automatic tapioca harvester is powered by a battery (03), which provides the necessary energy for its operation. The battery (03) ensures that the machine can operate independently in the field without external power sources.It supplies power to the electric motor (01), enabling the efficient movement and operation of the various components, such as the rack (05) and pinion (04) system. The battery (03) is designed for longevity and allows for extended use during harvesting without frequent recharging. This increases the overall efficiency and comfort of the machine during the harvesting process.

[0025] In one embodiment of the present invention, the stand (11) supports the semi-automatic tapioca harvester and provides stability and balance during operation. It is strong enough to bear the weight of the machine and withstand stresses during operation. The design of the stand (11) also allows for easy positioning in the field and improves maneuverability. Overall, the stand increases the stability and reliability of the machine and makes harvesting more efficient. In one embodiment of the present invention, the base bed (10) serves as the foundation of the semi-automatic tapioca harvester. It provides structural support and stability and ensures that all components are securely attached and function properly during operation. The base bed (10) is designed to withstand the weight and forces during harvesting, thus contributing to the overall durability of the machine.It also helps dampen vibrations, reduces wear on other parts, and improves performance. Its design also facilitates the easy attachment of other components, making assembly and maintenance more efficient.

[0026] The examples of the present invention described above are for illustrative purposes only. Although the present invention has been described using a specific example, numerous modifications are possible without materially departing from the teachings and advantages of the subject matter described herein. Further substitutions, modifications, and changes are possible without departing from the spirit of the present solution. All features and / or steps of the methods or processes disclosed in this specification (including the appended claims, abstract, and drawings) and / or all steps of the methods or processes disclosed therein may be combined in any way, except for combinations in which at least some of these features and / or steps are mutually exclusive.

[0027] Although the embodiments described herein are described in terms of various specific embodiments, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art to practice the embodiments described herein with modifications. List of reference symbols: 01 Electric motor 02 Gearbox 03 Battery 04 Pinion 05 Rack 06 Adjustable clamp 07 Handwheel 08 Slide rail 09 Rotary wheels 10 Base plate 11 stands 12 handlebar

Claims

[1] A semi-automatic tapioca harvesting machine consisting of: i. a rack (05) and a pinion (04) which enable the vertical movement of a clamping arrangement (06); ii. an adjustable clamping mechanism (06) with a fixed and an adjustable clamping jaw for gripping tapioca sticks of different sizes; and iii. a handwheel (07) for manually adjusting the position of the adjustable clamping jaw. [2] The semi-automatic tapioca harvester according to claim 1, wherein the electric motor (01) is driven by a battery (03), thus enabling independent operation in the field without external power sources. [3] The semi-automatic tapioca harvesting machine according to claim 1 further comprises a slide rail (08) which guides the vertical movement of the rack (05) and pinion (06), thereby reducing friction and improving alignment. [4] The semi-automatic tapioca harvester according to claim 1, wherein the adjustable clamping mechanism (06) comprises a needle that moves inward to pierce the tapioca stem to ensure a secure grip. [5] The semi-automatic tapioca harvesting machine according to claim 1 further comprises rotatable wheels (09) which can be easily maneuvered in different terrains. [6] The semi-automatic tapioca harvesting machine according to claim 1, wherein the rack and pinion mechanism (05) enables individual clamping and precise raising and lowering of the tapioca stems, thus improving harvesting efficiency. [7] The semi-automatic tapioca harvesting machine according to claim 1, wherein the stand (11) is designed to ensure stability and balance during operation and to withstand the weight and load during use. [8] The semi-automatic tapioca harvesting machine according to claim 1, wherein the construction of the base bed (10) enables easy attachment of other components, thus improving assembly and maintenance efficiency. [9] The semi-automatic tapioca harvester according to claim 1, wherein the handwheel (07) is ergonomically positioned and easily accessible so that the operator can make precise adjustments when navigating the machine.

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