PORTABLE PEDAL OPERATED SEPARATOR

Abstract

The present invention relates to a portable pedal operated system (100). In particular, the portable pedal operated system (100) for efficiently separating cashew apples from their nuts. The portable pedal operated system (100) comprises a main frame (102) that supports a pedal (106) linked to a cutting mechanism. The pedal (106) activates a primary connecting rod (108) and secondary connecting rod (110), which drives a movable concave shear plate (124) that operates in conjunction with a fixed concave shear plate (114), facilitates back-and-forth motion, ensuring effective shearing action, enabling consistent and efficient separation of cashew apples and nuts. A retracting spring (116) configured for resetting the movable concave shear plate (124) after each cutting action to return its original position. The system (100) also features a RCN outlet (118) for discharging the separated cashew apples and nuts, along with an angle connector (122) to guide the discharge process.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a portable pedal operated system. In Particular, the present invention relates to the portable pedal operated system for separating cashew apples and nuts.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.

The cashew tree, Anacardium occidentale L., belongs to the Anacardiaceae family. It has short trunks, grows to a height of 15 meters, and typically has a wide crown. However, it is frequently stunted and bushy near the coast. The kidney-shaped, hard-shelled nut, which grows to a length of 3 cm or more and develops at the apex of a fleshy stalk, is the real fruit of the tree. It is initially green and then turns an ashy brown. As the "nut" ages, the stalk expands to produce a stunning, pear-shaped, glossy, juicy, smooth-skinned pseudo fruit (false fruit) that is typically used and viewed as a fruit. It can be bright red, orange, yellow, or two-toned. When a nut reaches its full maturity, the weight from the expanding pseudo fruit forces it to fall to the ground.

After the cashew apples are harvested, the separating process starts. This is usually done by hand, as the fruits are fragile and easily damaged. Harvesting is often done when the fruits naturally fall to the ground, indicating that they are ripe and ready for harvest. After harvesting, the cashew apples and nuts are manually separated. The separation of cashew nuts from cashew apples is a labour-intensive process. The procedure of twisting or snapping the nuts from the apples must be done carefully to avoid causing damage the nuts and incurring losses. Cashew apples are extremely perishable and begin to rot soon after harvest. This reduces the time available for separation and processing, necessitating quick and efficient handling to avoid waste. While separating cashew nuts from cashew apples triggers multiple problems, there are many opportunities for innovation and development. By solving these issues, we may improve the efficiency and safety of cashew processing, ultimately contributing to the sustainable production and use of cashew nuts and apples.

In view of the above discussion, it is observed that the separation process of the cashew apples is usually done by hand, which increases the chances of the fruits being damaged. Also, the separation of cashew nuts from cashew apples is a labour-intensive process. The procedure of twisting or snapping the nuts from the cashew apples must be done carefully to avoid causing damage the nuts and incurring losses, which is time-consuming and impacts the quality and uniformity of the resulting products. Therefore, there is an important need to address these challenges by introducing a portable pedal operated system for quick and efficient handling to avoid waste of freshly harvested cashew apples and reduces the time and labour requirements. The portable pedal operated system consistently separates raw materials, improving the efficiency and safety of cashew processing, ultimately contributing to the sustainable production and utilization of cashew nuts and apples.

OBJECTIVES OF THE INVENTION:
In view of the forgoing limitations inherent in the state of the art, some of the objects of the present invention, which at least one embodiment here satisfy, are listed below.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a portable pedal operated system with ease of manufacture at a low-cost, which is affordable.

It is the principle object of the present invention to provide a portable pedal operated system that efficiently separates cashew apples from nuts with minimal manual intervention, enhancing productivity.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a portable pedal operated system that utilizes foot pressure to drive a shearing action, eliminating the need for electrical power or complex machinery, making it suitable for use in rural or remote areas.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a user friendly structure of the portable pedal operated system that reduces operator fatigue by using an ergonomic pedal and simple mechanical linkage for smooth operation.

It is another object of the present invention to ensure precise and consistent separation of cashew apples from the nuts by using a portable pedal operated system along with a concave shear plate that delivers accurate shearing with every operation.

It is still another object of the invention to provide an adjustable mechanism that allows the system to accommodate different sizes of cashew apples, offering flexibility and adaptability a portable pedal operated system.

It is yet another object of the present invention to facilitate easy cleaning and maintenance by incorporating non-stick coatings on the shear plates, reducing residue buildup and ensuring hygienic operation.

It is another object of the present invention to improve safety and stability by integrating a support leg and a locking mechanism, ensuring the portable pedal operated system remains securely positioned during operation.

These and other objects and advantages of the present invention would be apparent to a person skilled in the art after consideration of the following detailed description taken into consideration with accompanying drawings in which preferred embodiments of the present subject matter are illustrated.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:

This summary is provided to introduce concepts related to a monitoring system and its structural features. The concepts are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

According to the present subject disclosure, there is provided a portable foot operated system for separating cashew apples. Herein, a main frame configured to facilitate structural support, comprises, a pedal configured to connect a cutting mechanism via a linkage. The pedal comprises a primary connecting rod and a secondary connecting rod connected through a plurality of pivot points to transfer the motion from the pedal to initiate the cutting mechanism. Further, a fixed concave shaped shear plate and a movable concave shaped shear plate positioned parallel to each other to facilitate back-and-forth motion to the movable concave shear plate via the linkage of the pedal operated system. The system also features a retracting spring configured to assist resetting of the movable concave shear plate, an RCN outlet, and a cashew apple outlet configured for discharging separated cashew apples and nuts.

The portable foot-operated system is designed with a simple and effective mechanical structure. At the heart of the system, a main frame configured to provide the necessary structural support to hold the various components together and ensure stability during operation. The main frame is sturdy and balanced, allowing the system to function efficiently even under the force applied by the operator. The system is operated through a pedal, which is connected to a cutting mechanism via a linkage system. The pedal plays a crucial role in the operation of the system, as it is foot-operated, converting the force applied by the operator into mechanical movement. The pedal is equipped with a primary connecting rod and a secondary connecting rod, which are connected through a series of pivot points. These pivot points are strategically placed to allow for smooth and effective transfer of motion from the pedal to the cutting mechanism. When the operator presses down the pedal, the motion is transmitted through the primary and secondary connecting rods, which initiates the movement of the cutting mechanism.

The cutting mechanism consists of two key components a fixed concave shear plate and a movable concave shear plate. The fixed concave shear plate and the movable concave shear plate are positioned parallel to each other. The fixed shear plate remaining stationary while the movable plate is driven by the linkage system. The concave shape of these plates is specifically designed to match the curvature of cashew apples groove depth, ensuring that they are held securely in place during the cutting process. As the operator presses the pedal, the movable concave shear plate moves back and forth in a parallel motion relative to the fixed plate, creating a shearing action. This shearing action effectively cuts through the cashew apple, separating the fruit from the attached nut.

To ensure that the system operates efficiently and smoothly, a retracting spring is included. The retracting spring is connected to the movable concave shear plate and is designed to assist in resetting the plate to its original position after each shearing action. Once the operator releases the pedal, the retracting spring pulls the movable shear plate back into place, readying the system for the next cutting action. This automatic reset feature reduces the need for manual intervention and allows for continuous, uninterrupted operation.

Additionally, the system having two distinct outlets for the separated materials an RCN outlet and a cashew apple outlet. The RCN outlet is designed to discharge the separated cashew nuts, while the cashew apple outlet is intended for the smooth removal of the separated cashew apples. These outlets are positioned strategically to ensure that the separated materials exit the system without causing blockages or jams, contributing to the overall efficiency and ease of use.

In summary, the portable foot-operated system uses a simple pedal-driven mechanism to initiate the cutting action between a fixed and movable concave shear plate. The retracting spring aids in resetting the system, while the RCN and cashew apple outlets ensure the smooth discharge of the separated products, making the system both practical and efficient for separating cashew apples from nuts.

In an aspect, an angle connector configured for a RCN outlet and a support plate configured for cashew apples feeding into the system, and wherein, a support leg configured to provide stability to the main frame and the pedal translates the motion of the operator's foot into a shearing action between the fixed concave shaped shear plate and movable concave shear plate, enabling consistent and efficient separation of cashew apples and nuts.

In an aspect, the primary connecting rod and secondary connecting rod are adjustable in length to vary the stroke of the movable concave shear plate for different sizes of cashew apples.

In an aspect, the pedal is ergonomically structured to reduce operator fatigue and increase efficiency during prolonged operation.

In an aspect, the plurality of pivot points include bearings to reduce friction and wear during the transfer of motion between the primary connecting rod, secondary connecting rod, and movable concave shear plate.
In an aspect, the fixed concave shear plate and the movable concave shear plate are coated with a non-stick material to minimize sticking of cashew apple residues and facilitate easy cleaning.

In an aspect, wherein the retracting spring positioned between the movable concave shear plate and the main frame to facilitate smooth resetting of the movable concave shear plate after each cutting cycle to maintain consistent separation efficiency.

In an aspect, wherein the support plate positioned with sloped edges to ensure smooth feeding of cashew apples into the shearing area between the fixed concave shear plate and the movable concave shear plate.

In an aspect, the angle connector configured for the RCN outlet is adjustable, allowing the operator to control the direction of the separated cashew apples and nuts discharged from the system.

In an aspect, the pedal operated by an operator to initiate the shearing action, allowing the movable concave shear plate to cut and separate the cashew apples from the nuts.

Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS:

It is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of the present subject matter and are therefore not to be considered for limiting of its scope, for the invention may admit to other equally effective embodiments. The detailed description is described with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The same numbers are used throughout the figures to reference like features and components. Some embodiments of system or methods or structure in accordance with embodiments of the present subject matter are now described, by way of example, and with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:

Figure 1 illustrates a front view of a portable pedal operated system for separating cashew apples, in accordance with embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figure 2 illustrates side view of a portable pedal operated system for separating cashew apples, in accordance with embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figure 3 illustrates top view of a portable pedal operated system for separating cashew apples, in accordance with embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figure 4 illustrates an isometric view of a portable pedal operated system for separating cashew apples, in accordance with embodiment of the present disclosure, and

Figure 5 illustrates different views (A: Front view, B: Side view, C: Top view, and D: Isometric view) of a portable pedal operated system for separating cashew apples, in accordance with embodiment of the present disclosure.

The figure depicts the embodiment of the present invention for the purposes of illustration only. A person skilled in the art will easily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The detailed description of various exemplary embodiments of the disclosure is described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the embodiments are described herein in such details as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of details provided herein are not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments, on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

It is also to be understood that various arrangements may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, embody the principles of the present disclosure. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and embodiments of the present disclosure, as well as specific examples, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of example embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises", "comprising", "includes" and/or "including," when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and/or groups thereof.

It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions/acts noted may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two figures shown in succession may, in fact, be executed concurrently or may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality/acts involved.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which example embodiments belong. It will be further understood that terms, e.g., those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

It should be noted that the description merely illustrates the principles of the present subject matter. It will thus be appreciated that those skilled in the art will be able to devise various arrangements that, although not explicitly described herein, embody the principles of the present subject matter and are included within its scope.

In the following detailed description of the embodiments of the disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The following description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.

Hereinafter, a description of an embodiment with several components in communication with each other does not imply that all such components are required. On the contrary, a variety of optional components are described to illustrate the wide variety of possible embodiments of the present disclosure.

The present disclosure introduces a portable pedal operated system (100).The portable pedal operated system (100) designed specifically for separating cashew apples from their nuts. The portable pedal operated system (100) is a machine, operated by foot of the user or operator mechanically, and it does not require electricity or external power, making it particularly suitable for use in rural or remote areas where electricity may not be readily available.

Referring to figure 1, a portable pedal operated system (100) built around a main frame (102), which provides the structural support for the entire machine. The main frame (102) ensures that the various components are held together in a stable and secure manner during operation of the portable pedal operated system (100). The main frame is also equipped with support leg (104), which provides the stability to the portable pedal operated system (100), when it is in use, preventing it from shifting or tipping over during the shearing process of cashew apples.

In an aspect, a pedal (106) configured to connect a cutting mechanism through a linkage system. The pedal (106) is a foot-operated and it regulates the cutting mechanism, which is controlled by a human operator in a standing position. The operator applies force to press down the pedal (106), causing the movable concave-shaped shear plate (124) to shear over the fixed concave-shaped shear plate (114). This action facilitates the back-and-forth motion of the movable concave shear plate (124) via the linkage of the pedal-operated system, activating the cutting mechanism to separate cashew apples from their nuts.

Further, a primary connecting rod (108) and a secondary connecting rod (112) works together to transfer the motion of the pedal (106) to the cutting mechanism. The primary connecting rod (108) and a secondary connecting rod (112) connected through multiple pivot points (110), which allow the motion to flow smoothly and efficiently from one component to the another component. The linkage is provided here to ensure the force applied by the foot of the operator to the pedal (106) is effectively converted into a shearing motion for separating the cashew apples and nuts. The shearing mechanism is a key function of the portable pedal-operated system (100) comprises a fixed concave shear plate (114) and a movable concave shaped shear plate (124). The fixed concave shear plate (114) is stationary and serves as the base against which the cutting action occurs. The movable concave shaped shear plate (124) moves back and forth in a parallel motion relative to the fixed shear plate (114). The ideal depth of concavity for the fixed concave shear plate (114) and the movable concave shaped shear plate (124) is 22 mm, and gap between these two parallel shear plates is 1.0 mm. The pedal's (106) action drives the movable plate (124), creating a shearing effect. As the fixed concave shear plate (114) and the movable concave shaped shear plate (124) come together, and they cut the cashew apples, separating the fruit from the nuts. The concave shape of the plates is designed to fit the curvature of the cashew apples groove depth, ensuring an effective and precise cut of the cashew apples. Furthermore, the back-and-forth motion of the movable concave shear plate (124) is controlled by the linkage system powered by the pedal (106). As the operator presses down the pedal (106), the motion is transferred through the primary connecting rod (108) and the secondary connecting rod (112) to move the movable concave shear plate (124), initiating the cutting action. When the pedal is released, the shear plate needs to return to its starting position to prepare for the next cutting cycle.

In an aspect, the portable pedal operated system (100) includes a retracting spring (116), discharge outlets such as a RCN outlet (118), and a cashew apple outlet (120). After the cutting and separation of the cashew apple and nut, the portable pedal operated system (100) provides two specific outlets for discharging the processed materials. The retracting spring (116) plays a crucial role in resetting the movable concave shear plate (124) after each cutting stroke. The stroke rate is 15 per minute. Once the operator releases the force over the pedal (106), the retracting spring (116) pulls the movable concave shear plate (124) back to its original position, ensuring that the portable pedal operated system (100) is ready for the next cashew apple to be processed. This automatic resetting helps to maintain efficiency and ensures a smooth operational cycle of the system (100). The efficiency of the portable operated system (100) is 82.70 percentages, and the average separation capacity of the system (100) is 14.097 kg h-1 .Also, the RCN outlet (118) is designed for discharging the separated cashew nuts. The cashew apple outlet (120) is designed to discharge separated cashew apples, while additional outlets are strategically positioned to ensure the smooth removal of both cashew apples and nuts. This careful placement prevents clogging or jamming during the separation process, allowing for continuous and efficient operation. The design of system (100) ensures that the separated materials flow easily out of the respective outlets, reducing the need for manual intervention and minimizing downtime. By maintaining clear pathways for discharge, the system (100) enhances productivity and ensures a seamless separation process for cashew apples and nuts.

The portable pedal operated system also includes an angle connector (122), and a support plate (126). The angle connector (122) positioned at the RCN outlet to guide the discharge of the separated cashew nuts in a controlled direction. The support plate (126) facilitates the feeding of cashew apples into the system. It ensures that the apples are guided properly into the shearing area for efficient processing during the operating condition of the pedal operated system (100). As discussed above, the foot-powered shearing action is a key function to operate the pedal operated system (100). The entire system (100) is driven by the operator's foot by applying the force on the pedal (106). By pressing the pedal (106), the operator initiates the shearing action between the fixed concave shear plate (114) and movable concave shear plate (124). This design offers a simple and effective mechanical solution to separating cashew apples and nuts, without the need for electrical components or motors. The foot-powered mechanism provides consistent and repeatable shearing action, enhancing both efficiency and precision in the separation process of the cashew apples and nuts.

In an aspect, figure 2 depicts side view of a portable pedal operated system (100) for separating cashew apples. As discussed in figure 1, a support leg (104) configured to provide stability to the main frame (102). The support leg (104) is crucial for providing stability to the entire system (100) during operation. It ensures that the system (100) remains securely positioned on the ground, even under the force exerted by the operator during the pedal (106) action. This stability is essential for smooth and safe operation. Further, the foot-operated pedal (106) is a central component of the system (100), used by the operator to initiate the cutting mechanism. The operator applies force to the pedal (106) with their foot, which translates the motion into mechanical action through a linkage system. The pedal (106) allows for a hands-free operation, enhancing user convenience and efficiency. A primary connecting rod (108) forms part of the linkage mechanism that connects the pedal (106) to the cutting mechanism. When the pedal (106) is pressed, the primary connecting rod (108) transfers the motion to a movable concave shear plate (124), ensuring that the pedal's (106) foot motion is effectively translated into the required cutting action. A fixed concave shaped shear plate (114) is stationary cutting plate designed with a concave shape to fit the curvature of cashew apples groove depth. It serves as the base during the shearing process, against which the movable shear plate (124) works to cut the cashew apples. The RCN Outlet (118) is positioned to discharge the separated cashew nuts after the cutting and separation process. It ensures that the nuts are removed smoothly from the system (100), preventing any blockage or buildup within the system (100). Further, the movable concave shaped shear plate (124) operates in parallel to the fixed shear plate (114) and is responsible for the shearing motion that cuts and separates the cashew apples from the nuts. Driven by the pedal (106) through the linkage system, the movable concave shear plate moves back and forth, creating the shearing action necessary for effective separation.

In an aspect, when the operator presses the pedal (106), the motion is transferred through the primary connecting rod (108) to the movable concave shear plate (124). The movable concave shear plate (124) moves against the stationary fixed concave shear plate (114), shearing the cashew apples and separating them from the nuts. The separated nuts are discharged through the RCN outlet (118), while the apples are discharged through another outlet (not shown in Figure 2). The support leg (104) ensures that the entire system remains stable throughout the operation, allowing for smooth and consistent cutting.

Figure 3 depicts a top view of a portable pedal-operated system (100) for separating cashew apples from their nuts, displaying the arrangement and interaction of several key components as seen from above. In this view, the overall structure and layout of the system (100) are more evident, providing insight into how the components function together during operation.

In an aspect, the support leg (104) positioned to provide a firm base for the system (100), ensuring stability and preventing it from shifting during use. The pedal (106) is located at the right side of the system, designed to be operated by the foot of the user. When pressed, the pedal initiates the cutting mechanism by transferring force through the linkage system. This linkage system includes the primary connecting rod (108) and pivot points (110), which serve to transmit the mechanical movement generated by the pedal (106) to the shearing components of the system (100). The pivot points (110) allow for the smooth transfer of motion, converting the operator's foot pressure into a back-and-forth movement that drives the cutting action. The cutting mechanism itself includes the fixed concave shear plate (114) and the retracting spring (116). The fixed shear plate (114) remains stationary and provides a surface against which the movable concave shear plate (124) operates. The retracting spring (116) plays a vital role in returning the movable shear plate (124) to its original position after each cutting stroke, resetting the system (100) for continuous operation.

In addition, the RCN outlet (118) and the cashew apple outlet (120) are strategically positioned to facilitate the smooth discharge of separated cashew apples and nuts after the shearing process. The RCN outlet (118) directs the cashew nuts out of the system (100), while the cashew apple outlet allows the separated apples to exit efficiently, preventing any buildup or blockages during operation. The top view effectively demonstrates how the components are arranged to facilitate the cutting and separation process. The layout ensures efficient movement of parts and smooth discharge of the separated materials, contributing to the overall effectiveness and ease of use of the portable pedal-operated system (100).

Figure 4 depicts an isometric view of the portable pedal-operated system (100) for separating cashew apples from their nuts, offering a detailed and three-dimensional view of the system's (100) structure and components in relation to one another.

The main frame (102) serves as the foundation of the portable pedal-operated system (100), providing essential structural support to all the other components. The main frame (102) is built to be sturdy and durable, ensuring the stability and longevity of the system (100) during operation. The main frame (102) is supported by support legs (104), which maintain the balance of the system, and prevent any movement or tipping when the pedal (106) is in use. The support leg (104) is crucial for ensuring that the machine remains in a fixed position, even when subjected to the operator's foot pressure. At the core of the system (100), the pedal (106) is configured, which is foot-operated and regulates the cutting mechanism controlled by a human operator in a standing position. The operator applies force to press down the pedal (106), causing the movable concave-shaped shear plate (124) to shear over the fixed concave-shaped shear plate (114). The pedal (106) is directly connected to a linkage mechanism designed to translate the downward force exerted by the user's foot into mechanical motion. This linkage system comprises several important components, including the primary connecting rod (108), which is attached to the pedal (106), and a set of pivot points (110) that allow smooth, precise movement. The secondary connecting rod (112) is connected to the primary connecting rod (108) through the pivot point (110), ensuring that the motion initiated by the foot pedal (106) is effectively transmitted to the cutting mechanism. The cutting mechanism involves a fixed concave shear plate (114), which remains stationary, and a movable concave shear plate (124) that moves against it. The concave shape of these plates is designed to fit the natural curvature of the cashew apples, ensuring an efficient and precise shearing action. When the pedal (106) is pressed, the linkage system moves the movable shear plate (124), causing it to shear the cashew apples against the fixed shear plate (114). After each cutting stroke, a retracting spring (116) helps reset the movable plate (124) to its original position, allowing for continuous operation without manual resetting.

The portable pedal operated system (100) also includes dedicated outlets for discharging the separated products. The RCN outlet (118) is designed for the smooth discharge of separated cashew nuts, while the cashew apple outlet (120) allows the separated cashew apples to exit the system efficiently. The RCN outlet (118) outlet and the cashew apple outlet (120) are positioned strategically to prevent any blockages or buildup, ensuring a seamless operation and smooth flow of materials. Additionally, the support plate (126) is designed to aid in feeding the cashew apples into the system (100). The support plate (126) guides the apples into the correct position for shearing, ensuring they are properly aligned with the concave shear plates. This feature improves the efficiency of the process by streamlining the feeding of the apples into the cutting mechanism, minimizing operator effort.

Figure 5 presents various views (A: Front view, B: Side view, C: Top view, and D: Isometric view) of the portable pedal-operated system (100) for separating cashew apples, offering detailed insights into the structure and interaction of its components from different angles. These views enhance the understanding design of the system (100) demonstrating how each part functions within the overall mechanism, and how the parts are positioned relative to each other for optimal performance.

The main frame (102) is consistently visible across the different views, showing how it provides structural support and a solid foundation for the other components. The main frame (102) holds the different components of system (100) securely, ensuring it remains stable while the operator uses the pedal (106). The different views emphasize the strength and sturdiness of the main frame (102), as well as its balanced design, which distributes the weight evenly to prevent tipping during operation.

The pedal (106) is seen from multiple perspectives, allowing a clearer understanding of its role in initiating the cutting mechanism. These views show how the pedal (106) is connected to the linkage system, including the primary connecting rod (108) and pivot points (110), which translate the foot pressure applied by the operator into mechanical motion. This motion drives the movable concave shear plate (124), ensuring that the cutting action occurs smoothly and efficiently. The different angles provide a full appreciation of how the movement of pedal (106) interacts with the primary connecting rod (108) and the secondary connecting rod (112) and the rest of the system to trigger the shearing process.

The views also highlight the placement of the fixed concave shear plate (114) and the movable concave shear plate (124). These concave plates are designed to fit the curvature of the cashew apples groove depth, and the multiple perspectives help show how they are aligned in parallel. The fixed concave shear plates (114) and the moveable concave shear plates (124) work together to create the cutting action necessary for separating cashew apples from their nuts. The retracting spring (116) is visible in some views, demonstrating how it helps reset the movable shear plate after each stroke, preparing the system for the next operation.

The discharge outlets, including the RCN outlet (118) for cashew nuts and the cashew apple outlet (120), are positioned to ensure smooth removal of the separated products. The different views of the figure 5 helps to illustrate how these outlets are strategically located to prevent blockages and ensure continuous operation without manual intervention. The outlets are designed to allow cashew apples and nuts to exit the system separately, avoiding any mixing or clogging. And finally, the different views of figure 5 highlight the support plate (126), which helps guide the cashew apples into the system. The support plate (126) ensures that the apples are correctly aligned with the fixed concave shear plate (114) and the movable concave shear plate (124), streamlining the feeding process and improving the overall efficiency of the portable pedal operated system (100).

Working Mechanism of the Present Invention:

The cashew nut and apple are effectively separated by using a portable pedal-operated system (100), as shown in Figure 4. A human operator physically inserts the cashew apple and its associated nut into the cutting mechanism of the nut separator. The pedal operated system (100) activates the cutting mechanism via a linkage system. When the operator applies force to the pedal (106), the shearing action is triggered. The portable pedal-operated system (100) comprises a fixed concave shear plate (114) and a movable concave shear plate (124). The fixed concave shear plate (114) remains stationary and serves as the base for the cutting action, while the movable concave shear plate (124) moves back and forth in parallel motion relative to the fixed plate. The pedal's (106) motion drives the movable plate (124), creating a shearing effect. As the fixed concave shear plate (114) and the movable concave shear plate (124) come together, they cut the cashew apples, effectively and separate the cashew apples from their nuts.

Advantages of the present invention:
1. Wide Range of Nut Sizes: The portable pedal-operated system handle a wide range of nut sizes, from small to large, accommodating different cashew varieties.
2. Increased Speed: The portable pedal-operated system allows for faster separation than manual techniques, enabling the operator to process two samples simultaneously, which significantly increases the number of nuts processed in a shorter time.
3. Minimizes Damage: The structure of the portable pedal-operated system ensures that cashew apples are separated from the nuts with minimal damage, preserving the quality of both the fruit and the nut.
4. Labor Efficiency: The pedal-operated system reduces the need for manual labor, decreasing operator fatigue while increasing productivity, allowing for continuous operation with less effort.
5. Cost Savings: The mechanical nature of the system eliminates the need for electricity or external power, reducing operating costs, especially in areas with limited access to power.
6. Portable and Lightweight: The system is easily portable, allowing it to be used in various locations, especially in rural or remote areas, and transported without difficulty.
7. Durability and Low Maintenance: The structural elements of the portable pedal operated system made from mild steel, which provides high strength and rigidity, and simplifies the assembly and ensures a consistent appearance. Additionally, its simple construction and use of durable materials result in minimal maintenance requirements, extending the system's operational lifespan and reducing long-term costs.
8. Safety: The structure of the pedal-operated system minimizes the risk of injury, as the operator's foot initiates the cutting action, reducing the need for direct hand contact with the cutting mechanism.
9. Energy Independence: The portable pedal-operated system operates entirely on human-powered energy, eliminating dependency on electrical grids or fuel-powered machinery, making it environmentally friendly.
10. Adaptable Design: The portable pedal-operated system is adjustable in nature, which allows it to be tailored for various operational needs, including adjustments to the cutting mechanism for different nut sizes, ensuring flexibility and versatility in its application.

Although a preferred embodiment of the invention has been illustrated and described, it will at once be apparent to those skilled in the art that the invention includes advantages and features over and beyond the specific illustrated construction. Accordingly, it is indented that the scope of the invention be limited solely by the scope of the hereinafter appended claims, and not by the forgoing specification, when interpreted in light of the relevant prior art. , Claims:1. A portable pedal operated system (100) for separating cashew apples comprising:
a. a main frame (102) configured to facilitate structural support, comprises:
I. a pedal (106) configured to connect a cutting mechanism via a linkage, the pedal comprises:
i. a primary connecting rod (108) and a secondary connecting rod (112) connected through a plurality of pivot points (110) to transfer the motion of the pedal (106) to initiate the cutting mechanism;
II. a fixed concave shaped shear plate (114) and a movable concave shaped shear plate (124) positioned parallel to each other to facilitate back-and-forth motion to the movable concave shear plate (124) via the linkage of the pedal operated system;
III. a retracting spring (116) configured to assist resetting of the movable concave shear plate (124);
IV. an RCN outlet (118) and a cashew apple outlet (120) configured for discharging separated cashew apples and nuts;
V. an angle connector (122) configured for the RCN outlet (118) and a support plate (126) configured for cashew apples feeding into the system (100), and
wherein, a support leg (104) configured to provide stability to the main frame (102) and the pedal (106) translates the motion of the operator's foot into a shearing action between the fixed concave shaped shear plate (114) and movable concave shear plate (124), enabling consistent and efficient separation of cashew apples and nuts.
2. The portable pedal operated system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the primary connecting rod (108) and secondary connecting rod (112) are adjustable in length to vary the stroke of the movable concave shear plate (124) for different sizes of cashew apples.

3. The portable pedal operated system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pedal (106) is ergonomically structured to reduce operator fatigue and increase efficiency during prolonged operation.

4. The portable pedal operated system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of pivot points (110) include bearings to reduce friction and wear during the transfer of motion between the primary connecting rod (108), secondary connecting rod (112), and movable concave shear plate (124).

5. The portable pedal operated system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the fixed concave shear plate (114) and the movable concave shear plate (124) are coated with a non-stick material to minimize sticking of cashew apple residues and facilitate easy cleaning.

6. The portable pedal operated system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the retracting spring (116) is positioned between the movable concave shear plate (124) and the main frame (102) to facilitate smooth resetting of the movable concave shear plate (124) after each cutting cycle to maintain consistent separation efficiency.

7. The portable pedal operated system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the support plate (126) is positioned with sloped edges to ensure smooth feeding of cashew apples into the shearing area between the fixed concave shear plate (114) and the movable concave shear plate (124).

8. The portable pedal operated system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the angle connector (122) configured for the RCN outlet (118) is adjustable, allowing the operator to control the direction of the separated cashew apples and nuts discharged from the system.

9. A method for separating cashew apples and nuts using a portable pedal-operated system (100), comprising the steps of:
a. feeding cashew apples between a fixed concave shear plate (114) and a movable concave shear plate (124);
b. applying pressure to a pedal (106) to translate motion through a linkage system comprising a primary connecting rod (108) and a secondary connecting rod (112);
c. initiating a shearing action between the fixed concave shear plate (114) and the movable concave shear plate (124) to cut and separate the cashew apples from the nuts;
d. releasing pressure from the pedal (106) to allow a retracting spring (116) to reset the movable concave shear plate (124) to its original position; and
e. discharging the separated cashew nuts through an RCN outlet (118) and the cashew apples through a cashew apple outlet (120).

10. The method for separating cashew apples and nuts using a portable pedal-operated system (100) as claimed in claim 9, wherein the pedal (106) operated by an operator to initiate the shearing action, allowing the movable concave shear plate (124) to cut and separate the cashew apples from the nuts.

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