BANANA PEDUNCLE SHREDDER AND BUNCH SEPARATOR

________________

A Project Study Presented to the Faculty of the College of Engineering

Cebu Technological University – Danao City Campus

Sabang, Danao City, Cebu

________________

In Partial Fulfillment

of the Requirements for the Degree of

Mechanical Engineering

________________

By

WENZEL BREN ADVINCULA

ZOREN A. BRACERO

JAY CARLO C. EMPENADRO

ALFRED B. GABAS

CYRIL JAMES B. GUMOLOM

VINCENT A. LATO

NOEL L. MURING

RHETT R. QUIMCO

June 2022
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APPROVAL SHEET

This project entitled “BANANA PEDUNCLE SHREDDER AND BUNCH

SEPARATOR” prepared and submitted by Wenzel Bren Advincula, Zoren A.
Bracero, Jay Carlo C. Empenadro, Alfred B. Gabas, Cyril James B. Gumolom,
Vincent A. Lato, Noel L. Muring, and Rhett R. Quimco in partial fulfillment of the
requirements for the degree of BACHELOR SCIENCE IN MECHANICAL
ENGINEERING, is hereby accepted and recommended for Oral Examination.

NOEL T. DERECHO, MSME.

Adviser

HAROLD JAY I. PAPAYA, RMEE. AMADITO P. BUOT JR., MS. Man.Eng.

Member Member

MARLON D. MATA, RMP, MEng-ME.

Chairman

ACCEPTED as partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Bachelor

Science In Mechanical Engineering.

JAYSON G. BAYOGO, CE, MEng-CE.

Dean, College of Engineering

APPROVED by the tribunal at the Oral Examination with the grade of PASSED.

NOEL T. DERECHO, MSME.

Adviser

HAROLD JAY I. PAPAYA, RMEE. AMADITO P. BUOT JR., MS. Man.Eng.

Member Member

MARLON D. MATA, RMP, MEng-ME.

Chairman

JAYSON G. BAYOGO, CE, MEng-CE.

Dean, College of Engineering

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ACKNOWLEDGMENT

This study would not have been feasible without the assistance of

significant people who have helped the researchers along the way. The

researchers would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to these individuals.

The researchers would like to express their gratitude for their family's

unwavering support and affection, which aided them in obtaining critical sources,

provided nonstop words of wisdom and encouragement, and boosted the

researchers' confidence when they were feeling down.

The researchers would like to express their gratitude to Engr. Marlon D.

Mata for his patience in explaining the whole project study method, for enabling

them to pursue this study, and for sharing his skills and expertise with them.

Most importantly, the researchers wish to thank our God Almighty, the

source of all their wisdom and power, for without is everlasting love and guidance,

this study would never have been completed.

-Researchers

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DEDICATION

This study is dedicated to their beloved parents, who have always provided

moral, spiritual, emotional, and material support and have always been a source

of motivation and strength when they were on the point of giving up.

To their siblings and sisters, relatives, mentors, friends, and classmates

who inspired them to finish their research with their wise words and

encouragement.

At long last, they commit this ponder to the All-powerful God, saying thanks

to Him for his direction, strength, mental power, protection, and abilities, as well as

for giving them with a healthy life amid this COVID-19 widespread. They offer you

with this study as a result of all of this.

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ABSTRACT

This study shows the use of mechanized banana de-handing machine as

banana peduncle shredder and bunch separator for significant production in

banana agriculture and industry. The overall purpose of this study is to aid the

problem of the process of manual de-handing of bananas. With an experimental

design, this project study seeks to answer the specific problems considered in the

study.

Three proposed designs were made and labeled design A, B, and C. Each

of the proposed 3D designs are created using SolidWorks with variation of its

cutting blade form and movement. The specifications for banana fruit geometry

data that are considered in the study are then gathered using related studies about

the banana fruit. The banana peduncle shredder 3D model is also created using

SolidWorks.

The researchers used the adaptability test of the cutting blade and static

stress analysis simulation in SolidWorks to test the proposed designs capability in

de-handing banana. Moreover, calculations for the peduncle shredder are done to

determine the final specifications of the banana peduncle shredder. Economic

Analysis is done to measure the costing of the final design.

Based on the gathered results and findings, it is concluded that the Design

C with a double edge knife blade passes the tests conducted in the study. The

design is considered as the final design of the study together with the determined

specifications of the peduncle shredder forming the banana peduncle shredder

and bunch separator machine.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Title Page i

Approval Sheet ii

Acknowledgement iii

Dedication iv

Abstract v

Table of Contents vi

List of Figures vii

List of Tables xi

List of Equations xii

Chapter

I THE PROBLEM AND ITS SCOPE 1

INTRODUCTION 1

Rationale of the Study 1

Theoretical Background 1

Conceptual Framework 9

Review of Related Literature 10

THE PROBLEM 16

Statement of the Problem 16

Objectives of the Study 17

Significance of the Study 18

Scopes and Limitations 19

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RESEARCH METHODOLOGY 20

Flow of the Research Process 21

Research Environment 23

Research Instrument 24

Gathering and Treatment of Data 25

Research Procedures 30

DEFINITION OF TERMS 31

Chapter 2 33

DESIGN SELECTION AND SIMULATION 33

Cutting Blade Design and its Mechanism Selection 33

and Simulation

Shredder Design Selection and Simulation 50

Chapter 3

FINAL DESIGN 56

ECONOMIC ANALYSIS 67

CONCLUSION 71

RECOMMENDATIONS 72

REFERENCES 73

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LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1. Theoretical and Conceptual Framework of the Study.

Figure 2. Flow of the Research Flow

Figure 3. Research Environment

Figure 4. Project Gant Chart from October 06, 2021 to June 28, 2022

Figure 5. Different banana peduncle diameters along its average length.

Figure 6. The relationship between the curvature of the bunch stalk and the

segments.

Figure 7. The relationship between the axial distance of banana hands and the

internode positions.

Figure 8. The relationship between the circumferential angle of the banana hand

and the node.

Figure 9. The created (a) cylinder model and (b) banana bunch model of 4 mm for

minimum to 10 mm for maximum diameter using SolidWorks.

Figure 10. Diameter capability evaluation of Design A on (a) top view with 100 mm

cylinder model, (b) top view with 40mm cylinder model, (c) perspective view with

100 mm banana bunch model, (d) perspective view with 40 mm banana bunch

model.

Figure 11. Diameter capability evaluation of Design B on (a) top view with 100 mm

cylinder model, (b) top view with 40mm cylinder model, (c) perspective view with

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100 mm banana bunch model, (d) perspective view with 40 mm banana bunch

model.

Figure 12. Diameter capability evaluation of Design C on (a) top view with 100 mm

cylinder model, (b) top view with 40mm cylinder model, (c) perspective view with

100 mm banana bunch model, (d) perspective view with 40 mm banana bunch

model.

Figure 13. FEA Static simulation of Design A result plot in (a) static nodal stress,

(b) static displacement, (c) static strain.

Figure 14. FEA Static simulation of Design B result plot in (a) static nodal stress,

(b) static displacement, (c) static strain.

Figure 15. FEA Static simulation of Design C result plot in (a) static nodal stress,

(b) static displacement, (c) static strain.

Figure 16. The cutting blade arm assembly on (a) exploded view, (b) assembled

view.

Figure 17. The whole cutting blade mechanism assembly on (a) exploded view, (b)

assembled view.

Figure 18. Dimensions and specifications of the readily made shredder blade.

Figure 19. FEA Static simulation of the readily available shredder blade result plot

in (a) static nodal stress, (b) static displacement, (c) static strain.

Figure 20. The main cutting blade assembly.

Figure 21. The primary modified shock absorber with the attached sliders.

Figure 22. The 10 mm x 165 mm bolt utilized as a slider of the cutting blade.

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Figure 23. The cutting blade holder assembly consist of a cutting blade, a steel

roller ball, the primary modified shock absorber, and the slider on (a) exploded

view, (b) assembled view.

Figure 24. The mechanism of cutting blade arm assembly on (a) initial loading of

banana bunch, (b) compression of the secondary modified shock absorber, (c)

compression of the primary modified shock absorber, and (d) expansion of the

primary modified shock absorber.

Figure 25. The position of the four cutting blade arm assemblies on the mouth of

the upper base: (a) the position before the interference on the loading of a banana

bunch, (b) the position during the interference and the compression of the springs

to accommodate the maximum diameter of the peduncle.

Figure 26. The Banana Peduncle Shredder and Bunch Separator on (a) top view,

(b) bottom view, (c) right side view, (d) left side view, (e) rear view, (f) front view,

(g) perspective view on rear, (h) perspective view on front, (i) perspective view on

front during the actual de-handing process, (j) perspective view on rear during the

actual de-handing process.

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LIST OF TALBES

Table 1. Parameters for the selection of best cutting blade design.

Table 2. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) Static simulation results for best candidate

cutting blade design.

Table 3. Best cutting blade design specifications to be used for the mechanized

banana de-handling process.

Table 4. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) Results for the readily made shredder

blade.

Table 5. The selected peduncle shredder specifications.

Table 6. Cost of the Banana Bunch Separator Project.

Table 7. Cost of the Peduncle Shredder.

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LIST OF EQUATIONS

1
dbs = 6 ∑3𝑖=1(D13i + D24i) (1)

1
t=12 ∑3𝑖=1(T1i + T2i + T3i + T4i) (2)

1 |xi |
α = 3 ∑3𝑖=1 arctan (3)
yi

32𝑀
𝑆𝑠 = (4)
𝜋𝐷3

8𝐹𝐷𝑚
𝑆𝑠 = 𝐾 (5)
𝜋𝑑3

4𝐶−1 0.615
𝐾 = 4𝐶−4 + 𝐶
(6)

𝐷𝑚
𝐶= (7)
𝑑

8𝐹𝐶 3 𝑛
𝑦= (8)
𝐺𝑑

32𝑇
𝑆𝑏 = 𝜋𝑑3 (9)

(𝐷2 +𝐷1 )2
𝐿 = 2𝐶 + 1.57(𝐷2 + 𝐷1 ) + (10)
4𝐶

𝑅−𝑟 𝐷2 +𝐷1
𝜃 = 𝜋 ± 2𝑠𝑖𝑛−1 =𝜋± (11)
𝐶 𝐶

𝐴𝑑𝑗𝑢𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝐻𝑃 = 𝐾𝜗 𝐾𝐿 (𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝐻𝑃) (12)

0.09
103 13.962 𝑉2 𝑉
𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝐻𝑝 = [4.737 ( 𝑉 ) − 𝐾𝐷 𝐷𝐼
− 0.0234 10𝑚6 ] 10𝑚3 (13)
𝑚

𝑚
𝜌= (14)
𝑣

V=Axt (15)

FT = Wc (16)

𝐹 (𝑓𝑏)𝐷
Tb = (17)
2

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𝑁
Speed ratio = 𝑁1 (18)
2

D1N1 = D2N2 (19)

𝑟𝑒𝑣
𝑟𝑝𝑚 = (20)
𝑚𝑖𝑛

P = 2πNT (21)

T= F x r (22)

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 CHAPTER I

THE PROBLEM AND ITS SCOPE

INTRODUCTION

Rationale of the Study

Banana (Musa) is a popular fruit grown around the different countries of the

world especially in tropical countries. This fruit is known to have a lot of benefits to

humans from the nutrients it contains and the products that will be produced using

bananas as raw material making it a desired fruit globally. (livescience.com)

The demand for bananas results to expanding of banana industry globally.

According to world’s top exports.com, the total exports of bananas from all around

the world is estimated to cost 14.7 billion US dollars in 2020 which is considered

as decline of banana industry due to COVID-19 pandemic however it is recorded

an increase of 41.7% in cost of bananas exported for over a five-year period

starting in 2016 for all banana shippers. The rise of banana industry worldwide

results to the development of agricultural sectors of different countries such as the

Latin America countries such as Ecuador, Costa Rica, Colombia, Guatemala and

Philippines which are the top five exporters of banana worldwide. (Food and

Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, 2016)

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Philippines is recorded to have the second largest country behind Ecuador

that exports banana in past decades. According to Department of Agriculture the

country totaled 12.09 billion US dollars for banana exports in year 2017 and 15.3

billion U.S dollars in supplying bananas to top importing banana in our country like

Japan (34.60%), China (25.70%) and South Korea (15.60%). It is 14.8% and 5.1%

increase of banana exported worldwide and banana imported by top importing

countries of bananas in our country respectively as compared in year 2016. Among

the variety of bananas exported by the country is Cavendish, Saba, Lakatan which

comprises an average of 52.8%, 27.5% and 9.9% of the total production of

bananas respectively in year 2017 and other banana products that is 9.8% of the

total banana production of the country. (Crop Statistics of the Philippines,2017)

Banana farming in the country is composed of methods and techniques

used by Filipino farmers for successful propagation and harvesting of bananas.

Banana farms in the country just like in Mindanao regions that comprises the large

banana farms of the country uses a traditional to semi-automatic machines to run

the production of bananas (Department of Agriculture 2013). This banana

production method requires a larger number of manpower to reach the target

production of bananas in these farms.

As this method of banana production is used, the problems come in

especially for the manual processes of the production such as in harvesting the

bananas the process of separating the banana bunch from its peduncle is

considered to be manual as the workers uses a bunch and peduncle tool to operate

the process. Moreover, there is a lack of production machines that utilizes the
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recycling of excess products of banana production such as its peduncle which can

be used for variety of products through the fiber it contains (businessdiary.com).

As these problems are observed, there is a lack of innovation of the current

technology created that will aid these problems in production of bananas. The

researchers are motivated to create this innovated machine Banana Peduncle and

Bunch Separator and Peduncle Shredder aiming to aid the banana production

problems in banana agriculture of the country.

Theoretical Background

This project Banana Peduncle Shredder and Bunch Separator is anchored

on the basic principles of:

1. Banana Fruit Geometry

To ensure the accuracy of de-handling the banana the banana fruit varying

parameters should considered. The researchers used following equations by Guo,

Fu, Yang, Li, Jiang, Jiang, Liu, and Duan in specifying the parameters for designing

banana de-handling machine.

1.1 Diameter of Banana Peduncle

In order to measure the diameter of the bunch stalk more accurately, the way of

considering its cross-section into a circle; the diameter of the bunch stalk (dbs) can

be obtained by:
1
dbs = 6 ∑3𝑖=1(D13i + D24i) (1)
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Where: D13i is the distance between the first and third quadrantal points of the

cross-sectional circle during the i-th measurement (mm), D24i is the distance

between the second and fourth quadrantal points of the cross-sectional circle

during the i-th measurement (mm), i is the number of measurements.

1.2 Thickness of Banana Peduncle Rind

The measured thickness of peduncle (t) rind can be obtained as follows:

1
t=12 ∑3𝑖=1(T1i + T2i + T3i + T4i) (2)

Where: T1i is the thickness of rind at the first quadrant point during the i-th

measurement (mm), T2i is the thickness of rind at the second quadrant point during

the i-th measurement (mm), T3i is the thickness of rind at the third quadrant point

during the i-th measurement (mm), T4i is the thickness of rind at the fourth

quadrant point during the i-th measurement (mm), i is the number of

measurements.

1.3 Circumferential Angle of Banana Hands

The curvature of the bunch stalk (α) can be obtained as follows:

1 |xi |
α = ∑3𝑖=1 arctan (3)
3 yi

Where: xi is the abscissa of the marker during the i-th measurement (mm), yi is the

vertical ordinate of the marker during the i-th measurement (mm), i is the number

of measurements.

2. Build-up Design of the Machine

In building the banana peduncle shredder and bunch separator machine,

the different mechanical components are considered and tested by machine

design principles.
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2.1. Shaft Calculations

To support the bearing and keep the blade from colliding with the bunch.

When a shaft is subjected to a torque or twisting a shearing stress is produced in

the shaft. The shear stress varies from zero in the axis to a maximum at the outside

surface of the shaft. The shear stress in a solid circular shaft in a given position

can be expressed as:

32𝑀
𝑆𝑠 = (4)
𝜋𝐷3

2.2. Spring Calculations

A coil spring is a mechanical device which is typically used to store energy

and subsequently release it, to absorb shock, or to maintain a force between

contacting surfaces.
8𝐹𝐷𝑚
𝑆𝑠 = 𝐾 (5)
𝜋𝑑3

4𝐶−1 0.615
𝐾 = 4𝐶−4 + (6)
𝐶

𝐷𝑚
𝐶= (7)
𝑑

8𝐹𝐶 3 𝑛
𝑦= (8)
𝐺𝑑

Where: Ss= torsional shear stress in the wire, F= axial load, Dm= spring mean
𝐷𝑜 +𝐷𝑖
diameter = , Dm= Do – d, Dm = Di + d, 𝐷𝑜 = 𝑜𝑢𝑡𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑚𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟, 𝐷𝑖 =
2

𝑖𝑛𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑚𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟, d=wire diameter, y= deflection, n= effective or active no. of coils,

G= modulus of elasticity, K= spring factor, C= spring index (ranges from 4 to 12,

optimum value is 9).

32𝑇
𝑆𝑏 = (9)
𝜋𝑑3
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Where: 𝜃= total angle of twist, rad, T= twisting moment, L= length of spring wire,

I= moment of inertia, E= modulus of elasticity, Dm= coil mean diameter, n= active

no. of coils, d= wire diameter.

2.3. Belt Calculations

Belts are mechanical elements used for power transmission without phase

shift. They are loops of flexible materials used to mechanically connect several

rotating shafts, most often parallel.

(𝐷2 +𝐷1 )2
𝐿 = 2𝐶 + 1.57(𝐷2 + 𝐷1 ) + (10)
4𝐶

Arc of Contract:
𝑅−𝑟 𝐷2 +𝐷1
𝜃 = 𝜋 ± 2𝑠𝑖𝑛−1 =𝜋± (11)
𝐶 𝐶

+sign for larger pulley

-sign for smaller pulley

Adjusted Rated HP:

𝐴𝑑𝑗𝑢𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝐻𝑃 = 𝐾𝜗 𝐾𝐿 (𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝐻𝑃) (12)

Rated HP:
0.09
103 13.962 𝑉2 𝑉
𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝐻𝑝 = [4.737 ( 𝑉 ) − 𝐾𝐷 𝐷𝐼
− 0.0234 10𝑚6 ] 10𝑚3 (13)
𝑚

Where: L = length of belt, D1 = diameter of small pulley, D2 = diameter of large

pulley, R= radius of larger pulley, r = radius of smaller pulley, ϴ = arc of contact,

radians, C = center distance.

2.4. Density and Volume

The density and volume of each component of the machine is calculated

using the formula.

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𝑚
𝜌= (14)
𝑣

V=Axt (15)

Where: m= mass of component, V= volume of component, t= thickness, A= area.

2.5. Uplift Force of Crankshaft

Considered in calculation for determining the required force of the

mechanism to de-handle banana and the selection of motor that will supply power

to the machine.

FT = Wc (16)

Where: FT = Uplift force of Crankshaft; Wc = Total Weight of the Cutting Mechanism

Parts.

2.6 Design of Bearing

The machine will include bearing calculations which is a machine member

which supports, guides or control the motion of other machine members (Tordillo).

𝐹 (𝑓𝑏)𝐷
Tb = (17)
2

Where: F= Radial Load, fb= Coefficient of Friction, D= Bearing Diameter, Tb=

Frictional Torque.

3.1 Speed Ratio, Relation of Speed and Diameter

The speed ratio is defined as the ratio of the large to small size machine

members such as pulley, shafts etc. can be calculated simply by dividing the

rotational speed in the large machine members by the rotational speed in the small

machine members.
𝑁
Speed ratio = 𝑁1 (18)
2

D1N1 = D2N2 (19)

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Where, N1 = speed of smaller machine member, N2 = speed of larger machine

member, D1 = diameter of machine member, D2 = diameter of machine member.

3.2. Speed of the Rotating Blades

To properly and effectively separate the peduncle, the speed of the moving

blades must be determined.

𝑟𝑒𝑣
𝑟𝑝𝑚 = 𝑚𝑖𝑛 (20)

4. Power and Torque Produced in the Cutting Blades and Shredder

The output power and torque of the machine in cutting blade and shredder

is determined by the following:

P = 2πNT (21)

T= F x r (22)

Where: N= Speed, T =Torque Transmitted, F= Tangential Load, r = Radius.

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Conceptual Framework

Banana
Harvesting
Principles

Production
and Output Machine
Estimation of Design
Machine Principles

BANANA PEDUNCLE

SHREDDER AND

BUNCH SEPARATOR

Selection of Concept
Materials for Application
Machine to the Design
Using Theory of Machine
of Failures

Figure 1.
Theoretical and Conceptual Framework of the Study.
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Review of Related Literature

The banana (Musa spp.) is the world's most popular fruit and one of the

most significant tropical and subtropical crops. Planting acreage and yields have

both increased in recent years (Mohapatra, Mishra, Singh, 2011). According to

figures from the United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization, banana

planting area and output have been steadily increasing in recent years. More than

a hundred nations or regions produce and consume bananas in the world (FAO,

2020). Field picking, transportation, de-handing, cleaning and disinfection,

packaging, and fresh-keeping transportation are all part of the banana post-

harvesting processes. The de-handing operation is an important part of the banana

post-harvesting process. The duration of banana shelf life and the sales grade of

banana fruit are directly determined by the quality of banana fruit after de-handling

treatment, which then has an indirect impact on the economic advantages of the

whole banana harvesting and marketing business. (Guo et al., 2020a; 2020b; Ke

et al., 2008; Li et al., 2011).

In comparison to other fruit and vegetable crops, banana harvesting is still

in its infancy, relying significantly on physical labor. The process of de-handling

bananas is still done by hand, which the banana industry's progress toward

mechanization, automation, and intelligence is not yet fully achieved. The

operations of banana processing in banana orchards rely on humans to work with

simple tools. Banana de-handling is a post-harvesting commercial processing

procedure that occurs between banana picking, transportation, cleaning, and

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packaging. Traditionally, the leftover blooms on the banana fingers are removed

first, and then the banana crown is cut off the bunch stem with a sharp arc cutter.

Workers with simple arc-shaped cutters are primarily used in the banana de-

handling process. Because workers' health is at risk by doing the same tasks on a

regular basis, the banana de-handling operation must become mechanized

process. Furthermore, because banana hands are sensitive to mechanical

damage, the key beginning points for research into the mechanization of banana

de-handing are to ensure the quality of banana hands and to extend transportation

time, consequently boosting the economic benefits of bananas (Guo, Duan, Li,

Yang, 2020).

Banana production requires high-level mechanized de-handling (Guo

2020). In order to design an effective de-handling machine requires the

consideration of banana’s complex structure wherein two of the major concerns

for advancement in de-handling technology are the varying diameter and the curvy

body of the peduncle (agritech.com).

The existing banana mechanized de-handing design by the College of

Engineering of South China Agricultural University conveys the mechanism to

vertically fix the whole banana bunch on lifting equipment, and the lifting equipment

drives the whole banana bunch to move downward slowly. Then, the banana

hands are cut one by one from the bottom to top of the bunch stalk, until the banana

hands on the bunch stalk are completely de-handed. A complete mechanical de-

handing system mainly includes a banana-bunch-stalk clamping device, a banana

bunch lifting device and a banana-hands-cutting device, which is the core of the
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whole banana mechanized de-handing system. The machine is designed to have

most suitable cutting method for separating the bunch of bananas from its

peduncle.

The variation of the diameter of the banana peduncle is a considered factor

for this research. A symmetrical shape deployable mechanism proposed by J. Guo

of the College of Engineering South China Agricultural University (2020) has a

cutting technology that ensures the de-handling operation by punching the banana

will then be pushed into the cutting mechanism by means of its weight and the

lifting and punching mechanism. J. Guo used the method of kinematics analysis of

radial self-adaptive mechanism, Kinematic characteristic analysis of de-handing

cutter and Finite element analysis of de-handing cutter to test the mechanism’s

effectiveness in operating the de-handling of banana. The researchers will use the

mentioned methods in testing the effectiveness of the designed cutting blade

specifically in terms of its adaptability and durability.

Also, a study about the determination of mechanical properties of banana

fruit under quasi-static loading conducted by Jahanbakhshi, Yeganeh and

Shahgoli shows that the maximum force banana fruit can sustain based on

pressure test, bending stress and shear test are 223 newtons, 50 newtons and 57

newtons respectively. The researchers will use the information as initial

considerations for producing the required power output of the machine and the

calculation of the stress and deformation of the components of the machine that

undergoes this force specifically the cutting blades for material selection.
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To ensure that bananas will not be damaged does not only focuses on the

possible damage of the cutting mechanism of the machine but also the possible

impact of the banana bunch to its contact surface after its separation from the

peduncle (Yang, 2020). Vibrations during transit might cause mechanical damage

to bananas, according to a study conducted in Jamaica. Mechanical damage to

bananas can drastically diminish their storage and transportation duration, as well

as their economic value. Avoiding mechanical damage is an issue that must be

addressed during the banana transportation process. Apart from increasing

transportation efficiency and lowering labor intensity, mechanical damage to

bananas should be prevented as much as possible during the banana

transportation process. The researchers design a transmission channel that will be

attached to the de-handling mechanism of the machine to ensure that the

separated bunch will directly touch the channel to prevent damage to bananas.

The peduncle is the stalk that supports the inflorescence, whose female

flowers will develop into fruits. It is part of the floral stem that starts from the

meristem on the rhizome and shoots through the center of the pseudo stem to

emerge at the top of the plant (promusa.org). Fiber and juice are the main

components of banana peduncle. Various products were developed from this lowly

material using readily available equipment and simple technologies. Instead of

being left to rot in the field, the peduncle can be utilized and thereby can

emancipate small-holder farm income (Tavanlar 2020).

In order to extract the fiber and juice of the banana peduncle requires

processing that starts with cutting the peduncle into small pieces (Moreira 2017).
 14

A proposed addition of peduncle shredder on the machine of researchers will be

an aid to address the using of excess materials during banana de-handling to be

used for manufacturing of other products.

A study entitled Discrete Element Modeling and Physical Experiment

Research on the Biomechanical Properties of Banana Bunch Stalk for Postharvest

Machine Development (Jie Guo, Manoj Karkee, Zhou Yang, Han Fu, Jun Li,

Yinlong Jiang, Tingting Jiang, Enxiu Liu, Jieli Duan) shows that the average value

range of shear strength of banana stalk is 6.194 ± 0.651 MPa. The determined

range of average shear strength of banana peduncle will be used as parameter of

the researchers for design calculations and material stress simulations for the

peduncle shredder.

The selection of the design for peduncle shredder will be based on the

parameters of the banana peduncle. Muhammad 2020 identify four basic types of

shredders, the chipper shredder, hammer mills, shear shredder and grinder. Each

type has a specific purpose advantages and disadvantages. Rotary shear

shredder is a shredder with a low speed and high torque. The shaft is equipped

with disk-like blades. The blades bite into each other's teeth while the rotors rotate,

shearing and tearing the things apart (sinoshredder.com). Advantages of using

shear shredder includes High-torque shearing technology efficiently processes

tough materials, Wear-resistant cutters, Shock protection, Bulk feed capability,

Energy efficient operation, Low noise, dust, heat generation and maintenance

costs (ssiworld.com). With these application and advantages of shear shredder

 15

that is a direct fit for shredding peduncle, researchers will use the shear shredder

for peduncle shredder.

Moreover, the assembly for the design of the peduncle shredder will be

based on A.Venkata Rathnam and U. Hari Babu five primary parts of the shear

shredder which are the:

a. Side plates – serves as the outer casing of the shredder machine that

holds together the parts in place.

b. Shaft – holds the rotating blades and by connecting to driving mechanism

handles the rotation of shredder blades.

c. Rotating Blades – Mounted of at the shaft and handles the shear

shredding operation of the shredder by rotation.

d. Fixed Blades – Blades that are mounted fixed at each side of side plates

and helps the shredder operation by ensuring the material to be placed on the

rotating blades for shear shredding process.

e. Bearing holding Place – is where bearing is placed to ensure the

regulation of the rotation of the shaft.

Based on the assessment of the present literature and research

opportunities, the researchers propose the banana peduncle shredder and bunch

separator as an innovated machine for banana de-handling operations and

shredding of peduncle as a preliminary step for recycling peduncle into new

product. The study is designed to create a mechanized method in executing the

banana processing by understanding the complexity of the banana geometry for

ensuring the adaptability of the cutting or de-handling blade. A simulation for stress
 16

analysis of the cutting blades and shredder blades is also done to validate the

machines durability. In addition, an economic analysis is performed to determine

the feasibility of the proposed study, as well as to evaluate the economic and

financial viability of mechanized banana processing investments (J. Gou 2021).

THE PROBLEM

Statement of the Problem

The overall purpose of this research is to design an innovated machine that

will do the task of separating the banana bunch and shredding of its peduncle that

will increase the production activity of bananas. This will aid the need of banana

industries in advancing its recent technologies that will result to economic growth

of each country that produces banana products.

Specifically, the researchers intend to address the following questions to be

considered in this study:

1. What are the factors and how these affect the selection of the best design

of Banana Peduncle Shredder and Bunch Separator in terms of:

1.1 banana peduncle average diameter?

1.2 banana peduncle average length?

1.3 banana peduncle rind thickness?

1.4 axial distance of banana hands?

1.5 circumferential angle of banana hands?

 17

2. What is the final design of the banana peduncle shredder and bunch

separator?

2.1 design of cutting blade?

2.2 cutting blade mechanism?

2.3 specifications of peduncle shredder?

3. What is the economic analysis of the project?

Objectives of the Study

The objective of this project study is to design a machine that could help the

Banana Farms execute the de-handling of banana easier, faster, lessen the human

labor and shredding of peduncle for its other purposes. The researchers aim to

produce and test the machine’s performance that will be compared to the existing

studies about this kind of machine and the manual de-handling method for further

innovation of the machine for its practical application in banana production

industry. Thus, the idea of a banana peduncle shredder and bunch separator was

materialized.
 18

Significance of the Study

The study introduced an innovative method of banana production to

contribute to our country's development by creating a machine that will enhance

the separation of banana bunch from its peduncle and with peduncle shredding

mechanism.

A finding from this study benefits the following:

To the Government. This study would help the government in advancing the

banana industry of the country that would result to improvement of economy in

agricultural sector.

To Banana Farms. The study would provide a boost in production of banana

in the primary banana farms that would ensure the consistent rate of production

and would save money and time.

To Workers. The result of the study would give mechanical advantages to

workers in executing the banana production processes that would save time and

effort.

To the Environment. The study's outcome has no negative implications to

the environment since the mechanism won't create any environmental issues.

To the Future Researcher. This study would serve as a guide for further

study that would improvement of project.

 19

Scopes And Limitations

The scope of the study will include the determination among the three

proposed designs of the machine of which is the most effective in separating the

banana bunch from its peduncle and shredding the peduncle. The parameters that

are taken account in the study includes the mechanical properties of the banana

fruit its shear force, the physical properties of peduncle such as its average length,

maximum diameter and minimum diameter. However, the study only focuses on

the regular straight length of peduncle as the machine’s cutting blade will have

constraints in curvy shaped peduncle. The data gathering of the standard

parameter basis of the study only based in limited related studies available and

there is no statistical data gathering performed.

 20

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

This study used experimental method of research, employing quantitative

engineering analysis, finite element analysis, and machine model simulations to

determine the best design for the project.

Discussed is the flow of the study:

(1) Conceptualization of ideas will be done through brain storming gathering of

ideas through reading books, internet articles, related research, patens and

journals and watching machine technology documentaries. (2) A systematic data

gathering in terms of cutting speed of bananas using traditional method of cutting,

the average maximum and minimum diameter, length and thickness of banana

peduncle and the average number of bunch of each kind of bananas will be

conducted in mountainous barangay of Danao City Cebu where banana farms are

present.(3) Using of computer aided simulations such as solid works will be

considered for design selection that will include selection of materials for parts of

the machine design. (4) Finite Element Analysis will be utilized by the researchers

to identify the design's possible failures or defects. (5) Researchers will then

produce a detailed mechanical plan and 3D model or perspective for final design.

(6) A tabulated list of preventive and corrective maintenance procedure will be

established based on Finite Element Analysis. (7) economic analysis was also

conducted.
 21

Flow of the Research Process

Engineering analysis and preliminary calculations will be done to determine

the dimensions of the construction of the candidate designs. The succeeding

process is the finite element analysis simulation of the candidate designs to test

the machine’s integrity against stresses during the operation. Data collection

began by comparing the performance of the candidate designs in separating the

bunch and peduncle of the bananas namely; manual operations, mechanized

technology research and equipment application of banana post-harvesting, and

the banana peduncle shredder and bunch separator in terms of cutting accuracy,

cutting speed, and machine's effectiveness in terms of design, and economic

viability.

The data gathered will be analyzed to produce the final design.

Furthermore, evaluation of costs and benefits will be considered. The proposed

design will be recommended or rejected based on the results of the procedures.

 22

Input Process Output

Comparing the Reading of Related

performance of the Literature and Studies
machine in separating and Searching for
the bunch and Patents
peduncle of the
bananas to other
candidate designs in Analyzing and
terms of its: Calculating the
Dimensions for the
-Cutting Accuracy
Construction of the
-Cutting Speed Candidate Designs.

Final Design of
Finalizing design of Simulation of Possible Banana Peduncle
the banana peduncle Designs Using Finite Shredder and Bunch
shredder and bunch Element Analysis Separator
separator.

Comparing the
Understanding the performance of the Conclusion and
economic analysis of candidate designs. Recommendation
the project.
/
Final Design
Selection

Economic Analysis

Figure 2.

Flow of the Research Process.

 23

Research Environment

This project was conducted at Bayabas, Danao City, Cebu, Philippines.

Bayabas is a mountain barangay having estimated elevation of 529.2 meters

above sea level and is located latitude (10.5875) and longtitude (123.8645) on the

Philippines’ map. Well known for its banana plantation and production.

Figure 3.

Research Environment
 24

Research Instrument

The project study was held at Bayabas, Danao City, Cebu which utilized

experimentation and computer simulation. This study will utilize the following

instruments:

• Spreadsheet application - This study will use MS Excel to create tables to

tabulate data and charts and to make a research work plan.

• Word processor application - This study will use MS Word to write the

research paper.

• Presentation application - This study will use MS Power Point to present the

research during the design hearing.

• Computer-Aided Design Application -This study will use SolidWorks to

visualize, simulate, generate engineering drawing and comprehend the

concept of the design. Analytical tools, Stat tool, and charts.

 25

Gantt chart

Figure 4.

Project Gant Chart from October 06, 2021 to June 28, 2022

Gathering and Treatment of Data

This information gathered by the researchers was aimed to address the

specific problem number one of the studies. It is acquired using linked studies on

the physical properties of the banana fruit, which has an irregular geometry, that

is the key to implementing the banana peduncle separator's cutting design.

The peduncle was found to have no consistent diameter along its length.

The banana peduncle has shaped like a cone, with a narrow base and a large tip.

Based on the banana peduncle diameter gathered, the upper diameter ranges

from 7.13 cm to 7.67 cm, the middle diameter ranges from 5.55 cm to 5.83 cm,

and the bottom diameter ranges from 3.77 cm to 3.80 cm shown in Figure 5.
 26

Therefore, the final banana peduncle diameter to be selected for the cutting design

consideration would be 10 cm for the maximum diameter and 4 cm for the minimum

diameter.

Figure 5.

Different banana peduncle diameters along its average length.

Also, the considered diameter of the banana having a maximum diameter

of 10 cm and a 4 cm minimum diameter has a length of 133 cm gathered from an

historical information of data from 2012 to 2014. Both the diameter and length of

banana data considered in this study were provided by a banana plantation

administration according to a linked study entitled Feasibility Assessment of Waste

Banana Peduncle as Feedstock for Biofuel Production by Marco Pazmiño-

Hernandez, Cesar M. Moreira & Pratap Pullammanappallil.

The findings of the regression analysis conducted by Jie Guo, Han Fu, Zhou

Yang, Jun Li, Yinlong Jiang, Tingting Jian, Enxiu Liu and Jieli Duan reveal a

significant, linearly shifting relationship between the internode position and rind
 27

thickness. The bunch stalk rind varies in thickness depending on the variety with

average value of the thickness of bunch stalk rind is 1.52 ± 0.82 mm.

Figure 6.

The relationship between the curvature of the bunch stalk and the segments.

According to the same research conducted by Jie Guo, Han Fu, Zhou Yang,

Jun Li, Yinlong Jiang, Tingting Jian, Enxiu Liu and Jieli Duan, the average range

of the axial distance of banana hands we obtained is 50.48~129.99 mm. The link

between the axial distance of banana hands and the internode positions is

depicted in Figure 7. The figure shows that as internode positions grow, the axial

distance of banana hands also increases. According to the fitting outcome, the

shifting trend can be roughly described as a cubic curve.

 28

Figure 7.

The relationship between the axial distance of banana hands and the internode

positions.

The study shows that the internode position has a considerable impact on

the axial distance of banana hands, whereas the influence of variety is

insignificant. The axial distance of banana hands varies depending on the

internode position. The average value of the axial distance of banana hands that

the researchers are able to determine was 87.431 ± 25.898 mm.

The relationship between the circumferential angle of the banana hand and

the node position is observed to have the circumferential angle of banana hands

decreases with the increase of node position. J. Guo, H. Fu, Z. Yang, J. Li, Y.

Jiang, T. Jiang, E. Liu, J. Duan conducted the analysis using SPSS software to

determine the whole impact of variety and node position on the circumferential

angle of banana hands.

 29

Figure 8.

The relationship between the circumferential angle of the banana hand and the

node.

In accordance with the notion of relationships between the banana hands'

circumferential angle, experimental variables, the data measured about the

circumferential angle of banana hands is 173.93 ± 8.91o.

 30

Research Procedures

The study proceeded as enumerated;

1. Defining the problem and reading of related literatures, studies and patents.

2. Data collection on various mechanical components based on their stresses,

speed ratio, torque, deflection, and speed, which will be tested using machine

design principles.

3. Calculation of maximum and minimum diameter of banana peduncle receiver.

4. Engineering calculations, mathematical modeling, and CFD simulation will be

used to select optimal blades in terms of widths and thicknesses.

5. Report and Summary of findings.

6. Making the final design of the project including economic analysis.

7. Conclusion and Recommendations.

 31

DEFINITION OF TERMS

The following are the definitions of the technical terms used in this project study:

BANANA BUNCH – multiple hands that grow in a cluster or on one spike.

BANANA DE– HANDING – is a commercial processing operation between

banana picking, transportation, cleaning and packaging in post-harvesting.

BANANA MECHANIZED DE-HANDING – vertically fix the whole banana bunch

on lifting equipment, and the lifting equipment drives the whole banana bunch to

move downward slowly.

BANANA PEDUNCLE – The peduncle is the stalk that supports the inflorescence,

whose female flowers will develop into fruits.

CUTTER/CUTTING BLADES – a part of a researcher’s design that cuts the

banana bunch from its peduncle through the process of profiling movable cutting

blades.

CUTTING ACCURACY – determine the permissible level of each error parameter

(degree of conformity) of a machine tool that any criterion can be optimized with

its integration.

CUTTING SPEED – referred to as the speed with which the tool cuts the work.

With correct cutting speed and feed the material removal rates can be increased

thus, enhancing the efficiency and life of the tool.It is usually measured in Surface

feet per minute (SFM).

 32

ROTOR – a moving component of an electromagnetic system in the electric motor,

electric generator, or alternator. Its rotation is due to the interaction between the

windings and magnetic fields which produces a torque around the rotor's axis.

SHREDDER – used to reduce the size of banana peduncle to support material

reduction across a range of banana de-handing application able use as composite

material.

SEPARATOR – used to separate banana bunch from its peduncle suitable for

enveloping automation performance.

 33

DESIGN SELECTION AND SIMULATION

Cutting Blade Design and its Mechanism Selection and Simulation

Based on the physical properties of the banana peduncle, which has

variations in diameter throughout its length, the cutting blade design must be

constantly moveable and capable of accommodating the diameter discrepancies

during the actual de-handing process. The effectiveness of banana de-handling is

directly influenced by the performance of the cutting blade design and its cutting

mechanism. The designers have proposed three (3) candidate blade designs with

their cutting mechanisms to accommodate the diameter variations.

To test the capability of accommodating the dimension disparities of the

cutting blade design mechanism, the cylinder model and banana bunch model of

different peduncle diameters were developed, as shown in Figure 9. The

developed models will be used to evaluate the blade design mechanism

performance on the capability of accommodating the diameter disparities of the

banana peduncle.

(a) (b)
Figure 9.
The created (a) cylinder model and (b) banana bunch model of 4 mm for
minimum to 10 mm for maximum diameter using SolidWorks.
 34

The three (3) candidate designs will go through measurement evaluation

using SolidWorks to determine their capability to accommodate the banana

peduncle's diameter variations, which vary from 4 cm at the minimum to 10 cm at

the maximum diameter through the cylinder model. All candidate designs will also

undergo a motion study using SolidWorks to simulate the actual loading of a

banana bunch on the actual motion of the mechanism. The developed banana

model is integrated into the candidate designs to simulate using motion analysis

to evaluate the interference of the banana bunch on the candidate cutting blade

designs, which aids the selection of the best cutting blade design. Also, the motion

analysis will demonstrate if the type of blade and its mechanism on the actual

banana de-handing process does not damage or hits the banana hands.

As shown in Figures 10, 11, and 12, the designers use SolidWorks to create

geometric relationships by constraining the central axis between the created test

models and the cutting blade candidate designs in Table 1 to define the allowable

directions of linear or rotational movement of the candidate cutting blade designs

with its mechanism.

Design Type of Blade Blade Blade No. of

Blade Mechanism Thickness Height Blade
A Sharpened half- Up and 5.32 mm 155 mm 4
conical blade Down
B Back-sharpned Rotating 5 mm 180 mm 4
sickle
C Double-edged Rotating 5 mm 180 mm 4
knife

Table 1.

Parameters for the selection of best cutting blade design.

 35

Shown below are the views of CAD assembly evaluation for design A, B, and C.

(a) (b)

(c) (d)

Figure 10.

Diameter capability evaluation of Design A on (a) top view with 100 mm cylinder

model, (b) top view with 40mm cylinder model, (c) perspective view with 100 mm

banana bunch model, (d) perspective view with 40 mm banana bunch model.
 36

(a) (b)

(c) (d)

Figure 11.

Diameter capability evaluation of Design B on (a) top view with 100 mm cylinder

model, (b) top view with 40mm cylinder model, (c) perspective view with 100 mm

banana bunch model, (d) perspective view with 40 mm banana bunch model.
 37

(a) (b)

(c) (d)

Figure 12.

Diameter capability evaluation of Design C on (a) top view with 100 mm cylinder

model, (b) top view with 40mm cylinder model, (c) perspective view with 100 mm

banana bunch model, (d) perspective view with 40 mm banana bunch model.
 38

The mechanism of Design C having an adjusting spring on each arm of the

blades makes the blades adjust in different diameter and having its rotational

motion of the whole cutting blade assembly makes it more capable of covering the

inteference gaps between the peduncle circumference and the blades profile.

Having also the vertical profile of blades on the Design C, keeps the cutting area

only along the circumference of the peduncle. Unlike the Design B which has a

similar adjusting and rotational mechanism of Design C has a back-sharpened

sickle as a blade where it has an overlapping blades based on the geometrical

shape of the blade which could likely damage and cut the banana hands along its

rotational motion. In Design A having those conical blades and a vertical linear

motion like a piston makes it difficult for the blades to cover all the ineterference

gaps along the circumference of the peduncle. Having also those conical blades

being angled during its actual motion could probably penetrate the pointed edge

and could cut across the peduncle halfway through.

Therefore, based on the outcomes of evaluation and motion analysis the

Design C is the most likely the best blade capable of covering the diameter

differencies of the peduncle. To further prove the best candidate cutting blade

design, the designers also wanted to test if the candidate designs could resist

loading stress dealt by the banana bunch in the event on actual loading of the

banana bunch. The three (3) candidate designs will be subjected to Finite Element

Analysis (FEA) Static simulation using SolidWorks to predict how the blade design

will react to forces dealt by the banana bunch on the actual de-handling process.
 39

Shown below are the isometric view on result plots of the FEA Static simulation.

(a) (b)

(c)
Figure 13.
FEA Static simulation of Design A result plot in (a) static nodal stress, (b) static

displacement, (c) static strain.

 40

(a) (b)

(c)
Figure 14.

FEA Static simulation of Design B result plot in (a) static nodal stress, (b) static

displacement, (c) static strain.

 41

(a) (b)

(c)
Figure 15.

FEA Static simulation of Design C result plot in (a) static nodal stress, (b) static

displacement, (c) static strain.

 42

All candidate designs were loaded with the actual force gradients of the banana

bunch based on the linked studies. Shown below were the results of the simulation:

Alloy Steel: Yield Von Misses Reultant Equivalent

DESGIN Stregnth, Tensile Stress: Min, Displacement Strain: Min,
Stregnth Max Min, Max Max
6.20422e+08 1.877e+03 1.994e-03 1.356e-08,
A N/m^2, N/m^2, mm, 7.405e-05
7.23826e+08 2.359e+07 4.250e-02
N/m^2 N/m^2 mm
6.20422e+08 5.289e-04 0.000e+00 6.449e-13
B N/m^2, N/m^2, mm, 8.836e-05
7.23826e+08 2.810e+07 5.598e-02
N/m^2 N/m^2 mm
C 6.20422e+08 6.387e-01 0.000e+00 1.966e-12
N/m^2, N/m^2, mm, 9.913e-05
7.23826e+08 2.607e+07 7.852e-02
N/m^2 N/m^2 mm

Table 2.

Finite Element Analysis (FEA) Static simulation results for best candidate cutting

blade design.

Based on the study results in Table 2, Design C which had the double-edged knife

type of blade as show in Table 1 was sufficient to resists stresses due to the

loading of banana bunch. The Design C showed less than 1 mm displacement and

nearly negligible strain. Description of Design C was also the winning design of the

previous capability test in covering the diameter differencies of the peduncle.

Therefore, this just proves that the best cutting blade is Design C based on the

results of evaluation and simulation done on the candidate designs.

 43

To summarize the best cutting blade design and its mechanism to be utilize

for the Banana Peduncle Shredder and Bunch Separator machine are described

as follows:

Parameter Specifications

Type of Blade Double-edged knife

Blade Mechanism Rotating

Blade Thickness 5 mm

Blade Height 180 mm

No. of Blade 4

Diameter Capabilities 4 cm – 10 cm

Blade Material Alloy Steel

Table 3.

Best cutting blade design specifications to be used for the mechanized banana

de-handling process.

(a) (b)

Figure 16.

The cutting blade arm assembly on (a) exploded view, (b) assembled view.
 44

(a) (b)

Figure 17.

The whole cutting blade mechanism assembly on (a) exploded view, (b)

assembled view.

Shown below are the calculations done on the Cutting Blade Design and its

Mechanism:

Cutting Blade

➢ Shearing Force Applied, FA = 56.8 N

Length of Arm, L(arm) = 204 mm

(Torque or Rotational Force per blade)

𝑇 =𝐹×𝑟

𝑇 = (56.8𝑁) × (204𝑚𝑚)

𝑇 = 11, 587.2 𝑁 ∙ 𝑚𝑚

(Stress in Shaft subject to Torsion)

16𝑇
𝑆𝑠 =
𝜋𝐷 3
 45

16(11, 587.2 𝑁 ∙ 𝑚𝑚)

𝑆𝑠 =
𝜋(10𝑚𝑚)3

𝑆𝑠 = 59.013 𝑀𝑃𝑎

Spring

➢ Type of Spring: Helical Spring

Wire Diameter, d= 2 mm

Outside Diamter, Do= 14 mm

Inside Diamter, Di=12 mm

Length of Spring= 95 mm

No. of turns= 6

(Spring Mean Diameter), Dm

𝐷𝑜 + 𝐷𝑖
𝐷𝑚 =
2

14𝑚𝑚 + 13.2𝑚𝑚
𝐷𝑚 =
2

𝐷𝑚 = 13.6𝑚𝑚

Natural Length of Spring, NL=95 mm

(Solid Length of Spring), SL=d × no. of turns

𝑆𝐿 = 2𝑚𝑚 × 6𝑚𝑚

𝑆𝐿 = 12𝑚𝑚

(Deflection of Spring)

𝑦 = 𝑁𝐿 − 𝑆𝐿

𝑦 = 95𝑚𝑚 − 12𝑚𝑚

𝑦 = 83𝑚𝑚

(Spring Index)
 46

𝑦 = 95𝑚𝑚 − 12𝑚𝑚

𝐷𝑚
𝐶=
𝑑

13.6𝑚𝑚
𝐶=
2𝑚𝑚

𝐶 = 6.8

(Spring Factor)

4𝐶 − 1 0.615
𝐾= +
4𝐶 − 4 𝐶

4(6.8) − 1 0.615
𝐾= +
4(6.8) − 4 (6.8)

𝐾 = 1.22

(Axial Load per Spring)

8𝐹𝐶 3 𝑛
𝑦=
𝐺𝑑

; Modulus of Rigidity for Cast Iron, G= 41x10 GPA

8(𝐹)(6.8)3 (6)
83𝑚𝑚 =
𝑁
(41 × 106 )(2𝑚𝑚)
𝑚𝑚2

𝐹 = 56,368.18 𝑁

(Bending Stress of the Wire)

32𝑇
𝑆𝑏 =
𝜋𝑑 3

32(11, 587.2 𝑁 ∙ 𝑚𝑚)

𝑆𝑏 =
𝜋(2𝑚𝑚)3

𝑆𝑏 = 14, 753.28 𝑀𝑃𝑎

 47

Cylindrical Vessel

Material: Cast Iron

➢ Working Strength for the half-threaded bolt

d= 1 inch

120, 000 𝑝𝑠𝑖

𝐴𝑙𝑙𝑜𝑤𝑎𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑤𝑜𝑟𝑘𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠 =
𝐹∙𝑆

𝐴𝑙𝑙𝑜𝑤𝑎𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑤𝑜𝑟𝑘𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠 = 70, 000 𝑝𝑠𝑖 (𝑐𝑎𝑟𝑏𝑜𝑛 𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑒𝑙 𝑏𝑜𝑙𝑡𝑠)

𝑊 = 𝑆𝑡 (0.55𝑑 2 − 0.25𝑑)

𝑙𝑏
𝑊 = 70, 000 (0.55 × 12 𝑑)
𝑖𝑛2

𝑊 = 21, 000 𝑙𝑏𝑠.

➢ Power loss due to friction of the bearing

Shaft, L=100mm

d=10mm

N=464 rpm

Bearing, F=0.015 (deep Groove Ball Bearing): 2 Bearings

Load=5kg

5𝑘𝑔
(Load per Bearing) = = 2.5𝑘𝑔
2

(Frictional Torque)

𝑚
2.5𝑘𝑔 (9.8 ) (0.015)(0.01)
𝐹𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛𝑎𝑙 𝑇𝑜𝑟𝑞𝑢𝑒 = 𝑠2
2

𝐹𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛𝑎𝑙 𝑇𝑜𝑟𝑞𝑢𝑒 = 1.84 × 10−3 𝑁 ∙ 𝑚

(Frictional Loss)

464
𝐹𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛𝑎𝑙 𝐿𝑜𝑠𝑠 = 2𝜋(1.84 × 10−3 𝑁 ∙ 𝑚)( )
60
 48

𝐹𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛𝑎𝑙 𝐿𝑜𝑠𝑠 = 0.089𝑊

Motor

N=1740rpm

P=750W

𝑃 = 2𝜋𝑇𝑁

1740
750𝑊 = 2𝜋(𝑇)( )𝑟𝑝𝑠
60

𝑇 = 4.1161𝑁 ∙ 𝑚

𝑇 = 4116.08𝑁 ∙ 𝑚 (Rotational Force of Motor)

Belt and Pulley

𝑁1 = 1740𝑟𝑝𝑚

Outside Diameter for Large and Small Pulley

𝐷1 = 40𝑚𝑚

𝐷2 = 150𝑚𝑚

𝐷3 = 50𝑚𝑚

𝐷4 = 203𝑚𝑚

𝑁4 𝐷1 × 𝐷3
=
𝑁1 𝐷2 × 𝐷4

𝑁4 40 × 50
=
1740𝑟𝑝𝑚 150 × 203

𝑁4 = 114.286𝑟𝑝𝑚

Torque (Rotational Force from Auxiliary Pulley @ 4)

𝑃 = 2𝜋𝑇𝑁
 49

114.286
750𝑊 = 2𝜋(𝑇)( )𝑟𝑝𝑠
60

𝑇 = 62.667𝑁 ∙ 𝑚

𝑇 = 62, 667.3𝑁 ∙ 𝑚𝑚

(Center Distance); C

𝐶 = 𝐷4

𝐶 = 203𝑚𝑚 @ Second belt & pulley

(Length of Belt @ second pulleys 2&3)

(𝐷 − 𝑑)2
𝐿 = 2𝐶 + 1.57(𝐷 + 𝑑 ) +
4𝐶

(203 − 50)2
𝐿 = 2(203𝑚𝑚) + 1.57(203 + 50) +
4(203)

𝐿 = 832.04𝑚𝑚

(Center Distance), C

𝐶 = 𝐷2

𝐶 = 150𝑚𝑚 @ First belt & pulley

(Length of Belt @First pulleys 1&2)

(150 − 40)2
𝐿 = 2(150𝑚𝑚) + 1.57(150 + 40) +
4(150)

𝐿 = 618.47𝑚𝑚
 50

Shredder Design Selection and Simulation

The shredder design specifications was based on utilizing the readily

available parts on the market as the shredder machines are already existing in the

market. The designers have selected a blade design based on its availability and

its price. Dimensions and specifications of the readily made shredder blade is

shown in Figure 18.

Figure 18.

Dimensions and specifications of the readily made shredder blade.

To test the readily available shredder blade the designers utilized a Finite Element

Analysis (FEA) Static simulation using SolidWorks to predict how the blade design

will react to pressure dealt by the banana peduncle on the actual shredding

process. The design of the shredder blade will be subjected to a 6.845 N/mm2

pressure load on the two (2) tips of the shredder blade and will be fixed at its

hexagonal slot. The pressure load set up on the two (2) shredder blade’s tip was

made to simulate the actual shredding of the peduncle interacting with the 2 tips

per rotation.
 51

Shown below are the isometric view on result plots of the FEA Static simulation.

(a) (b)

(c)
Figure 19.

FEA Static simulation of the readily available shredder blade result plot in (a)

static nodal stress, (b) static displacement, (c) static strain.

 52

Alloy Steel: Yield Von Misses Reultant Equivalent

DESGIN Stregnth, Tensile Stress: Min, Displacement Strain: Min,
Stregnth Max Min, Max Max
6.20422e+08 1.628e+03 0.000e+00 3.678e-08,
A N/m^2, N/m^2, mm, 5.916e-06
7.23826e+08 1.406e+06 2.572e-04
N/m^2 N/m^2 mm

Table 4.
Finite Element Analysis (FEA) Results for the readily made shredder blade.
The designers also conducted calculations to determine the needed parameters

of the shredder such as the number and sizes of pulley needed to step down the

rotations per minute transmitted from the motor to shredder shafts. The rotations

per minute transmitted by the motor to the shredder shafts is important as it

determines the shredding quality.

Shown below are the calculations done for the selction of the shredder
specifications:
Area of Blade Edge – 136.5 mm2

Radius of the Blade – 65mm

Number of Blades – 10 (Driven Shaft)

Gear Ratio – 1:1

Total Teeth (Driven and Driver)

1. Solving for Force produced in Shredder

Force = Stress in Peduncle x Area in the Blade Edge

= 6.845 N/mm2 ×136.5 mm2

Force = 934.34 N
 53

2. Solving for Torque of Blade

T = Force of Blade × Radius of Blade × No. of Load in each Blade

= 6.845N × 65mm × 2 edges

T = 889.85 N-mm or 0.8899 N-m

3. Solving for Torque in Shaft

Torque in shaft = Torque Blade x Total Blades

= 0.8899 N-m x 10

Torque in shaft = 8.899 N-m

4. Gear Design

Gear Ratio = 1:1

Total Teeth = 37

Gear Module = 3

Pressure Angle = 20 degrees

5. Prime Mover Calculation

Pneeded = Torque Drive Shaft × Revolution Drive Shaft, (considered rpm =

70 rpm)

= 8.899 N-m x 70 rev/min x 1min/60sec

Pneeded = 1,417.08 W or 1.9 hp (Considering Mechanical Efficiency Use

2.5 hp)

6. Transmission Calculations

Pulley Belt Mechanism

Given: Pulley Diameter (D1) = 2 inches

 54

Speed (N1) = 1,740 rpm

Target :

Step 1 : 1,740rpm to 348 rpm

Step 2 : 348 rpm to 70 rpm

Solution : (Diameter of pulley to be used)

Step 1 :From motor to first auxiliary pulley

D1 N1 = D2 N2

2(1740) = D2 (348)

D2 = 10 inch

Step 2 : From 2nd auxiliary pulley to shredder pulley

D3 N2 = D4 N3

2(348) = D4 (70) ( use D3 = 2 in for 2nd auxiliary pulley)

D4 = 10 in.
 55

Shown below are the shredder sesign specfications:

Shredder Specifications

Motor Power 2.5 HP

Total Dimension of (Shredder Box) a. Height = 423 mm

b. Width = 330 mm

c. Depth = 286 mm

a. Total – 20 pcs

Total Blade b. Diver Shaft – 10 pcs

c. Driven haft – 10 pcs

d. Blade Material – Alloy Steel

Gear

Module 3

Teeth a. Driver Gear = 37

b. Driven Gear = 37

Shaft Diameter 110.5 mm

Gear Material Alloy Steel

Shaft

Shaft Diameter a. Blade Shaft = 45 mm

b. Pulley Shaft = 26 mm

Shaft Material Alloy Steel

Table 5.

The selected peduncle shredder specifications.

 56

FINAL DESIGN

The cutting blade and its mechanism were designed to accommodate the

diameter discrepancies of the banana peduncle throughout its length. The cutting

blade will be welded vertically and tangential to the housing of the steel roller ball

which will also be welded to a steel plate base having extruded holes serves as a

holder. The steel roller ball plays an important role in the mechanism as it functions

as a guide, a clamp, and a peduncle slider as it is the first to interact with the

banana peduncle during the loading of a banana bunch.

Figure 20.

The main cutting blade assembly.

 57

A mountain bike shock absorber is utilized as a main holder of the cutting blade

which will be modified where a smaller spring will be installed and a four steel

plates will be welded vertically and tangential to the cylindrical body. The four steel

plates will hold the two 10 mm x 165 mm bolts which serve as a slider.

Figure 21.

The primary modified shock absorber with the attached sliders.

The sliders hold the cutting blade assembly to maintain its linear movement along

with the compression and expansion of the spring as the cutting blade assembly

is bolted together with the modified shock absorber.

Figure 22.

The 10 mm x 165 mm bolt utilized as a slider of the cutting blade.

 58

`1 (a) (b)
Figure 23.

The cutting blade holder assembly consist of a cutting blade, a steel roller ball,

the primary modified shock absorber, and the slider on (a) exploded view, (b)

assembled view.

The cutting blade holder assembly will be coupled with another modified mountain

bike shock absorber where the spring will be replaced with a smaller spring. The

secondary modified shock absorber functions as a base support of the cutting

blade holder assembly where it lifts the cutting blade holder assembly if there is no

loaded banana bunch. The secondary modified shock absorber positions the

cutting blade holder assembly in preparation on the loading of a banana bunch.

Upon the loading of a banana bunch, the steel roller ball will first to interfere which

then triggers the secondary modified shock absorber to compress downwards as

impacted by the loading force. In the moment of interference of the peduncle and

the steel metal ball it also drives the cutting blade assembly to push and compress

the primary modified shock absorber. The cutting blade assembly simply adjusts
 59

with the diameter of the peduncle along the process as the springs of the primary

modified shock absorber expands back. Through this mechanism, the cutting

blade will maintain its tangential position with the peduncle throughout the de-

handling process. The cutting blade arm assembly is shown in Figure 16.

(a) (b)

(c) (d)
Figure 24.
The mechanism of cutting blade arm assembly on (a) initial loading of banana

bunch, (b) compression of the secondary modified shock absorber, (c)

compression of the primary modified shock absorber, and (d) expansion of the

primary modified shock absorber.

 60

Four (4) of the cutting blade arm assembly will be used on the whole de-handling

mechanism. The brackets of the four (4) cutting blade arm assembly will be welded

and bolted on the mouth of the upper base which is a modified open steel drum

having a funnel-shaped bottom. The upper base will have a welded pulley at the

bottom for the power transmission through the belt. The upper base will then be

mounted on the bottom base which holds the rotating upper base. The bottom base

functions as the main base of the whole de-handling mechanism. The bottom base

will have a modified ball bearings along its circumferential socket to let the upper

base rotate freely through its belt drive. The whole cutting blade mechanism

assembly is shown on Figure 17.

(a)
 61

(b)

Figure 25.

The position of the four cutting blade arm assemblies on the mouth of the upper

base: (a) the position before the interference on the loading of a banana bunch,

(b) the position during the interference and the compression of the springs to

accommodate the maximum diameter of the peduncle.

The suggested loading position of the banana bunch must be in an upright position

where the larger diameter of the peduncle must be inserted first and escalating to

the minimum diameter of the peduncle. In this way, the de-handling process is

effective with the final design mechanism as it could accommodate the diameter

discrepancies easily through the springs of the modified shock absorbers. The

springs could reliably compress on the initial loading of the banana bunch and

expands back as the peduncle becomes smaller throughout the length which
 62

keeps the cutting blades always tangential to the peduncle during the de-handling

process.

The final design of the Banana Peduncle Shredder and Bunch Separator

which is a banana bunch de-handling machine utilizing a diameter self-adjusting

rotating blades with an integrated peduncle shredder to ease the banana de-

handling on the banana plantations is demonstrated in Figure 26.

(a)

(b)
 63

(c) (d)

(e)

(f)
 64

(g)

(h)
 65

(i)

(j)
 66

Figure 26.
The Banana Peduncle Shredder and Bunch Separator on (a) top view, (b) bottom

view, (c) right side view, (d) left side view, (e) rear view, (f) front view, (g)

perspective view on rear, (h) perspective view on front, (i) perspective view on

front during the actual de-handing process, (j) perspective view on rear during

the actual de-handing process.

 67

ECONOMIC ANALYSIS

An economic assessment was done to see whether the project was

financially viable. A ratio between the first cost and the net annual profit is

calculated using the rate of return approach. The annual revenue was subtracted

from annual expenses including depreciation, operation and maintenance costs,

and taxes and insurance costs to arrive at the net profit.

Cost Of the Banana Bunch Separator project:

PARAMETER QUANTITY UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

1 HP Electric 1 pc Php 4,110.00 Php 4,110.00

Motor/Induction

Motor

Cast Iron for V- • 1 pc double x 6 in Php 492.00 Php 492.00

Belt Pulley diameter,1 in hole

diameter

• 1 pc double x 2 in Php 164.00 Php 164.00

diameter,1 in hole

diameter

• 1 pc double x 8 in Php 680.00 Php 680.00

diameter,1 and ½

in hole diameter

V-Belts • 1 pc 4PK830 V- Php 415.00 Php 415.00

ribbed belt
 68

1 pc 4pk615 V-ribbed belt Php 586.00 Php 586.00

Stainless Steel 1 pc 1 in diameter x 500 Php. 271.00 Php. 271.00

Shaft mm

Pillow Block 1 inch inside diameter x 2 Php Php 376.00

Bearing Unit UCP pcs 188.00/pc

205

Hexagonal Bolt • 10 pcs M16, Php 16.00/pc Php 160.00

80mm Php 12.00/pc Php 288.00

24 pcs 5/16-24, 35 mm

Compression 8 pcs Compression Php 55.00/pc Php 440.00

Spring SUS304 Spring SUS304 stainless

stainless steel steel x 2mm wire

diameter x 40 mm length

Suspension 4 pcs x 125mm length Php Php 1,104.00

Damper Shock 276.00/pc

Absorber

Roller Bearing 4 pcs x 2 Inches Wide by Php 199.5/pc Php 798.00

Roller Ball 1 Inches Tall

Transfer Bearings

Mild Steel Blade Sickle head stainless Php Php 2500.00

steel x 4 pcs 625.00/pc

Mild Steel Tubular 2 in x 2 in x 12 meters Php 2,563.25 Php 2, 563.25

 69

Mild Steel Angle 1 in x 1 in x 177.12 in Php 225.00 Php 225.00

Bar

Mild Steel Flat Bar 2 in x 1/8 in x 197 in Php 285.00 Php 285.00

Plain Sheet 4 pcs x 4 ft x 8 ft Php Php 3,264.00

816.00/pc

SUB-TOTAL Php 18,721.25

Table 6.

Cost of the Banana Bunch Separator Project.

Cost of the Peduncle Shredder:

PARAMETER QUANTITY UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

1 HP Electric 1 pc Php 4,110.00 Php 4,110.00

Motor/Induction

Motor

Bearing 4pcs x 83 x 25 x 12 Php Php 2,600.00

650.00/each

37T gear 2pcs x 37 teeth Php Php 910.00

(genuine: 2341- 455.00/each

k56-n00)

Steel Shaft 4pcs x 12in x 1in Php Php 2,255.48

565.37/each

Shredder blade 20 pcs Php Php 8,820.00

shredder claw 441.00/each

 70

knife, dual shaft

shredder knife

Cast Iron for V- • 1 pc x 2 in Php 164.00 Php 164.00

Belt Pulley diameter, 1 in

hole diameter

• 2 pcs x 10 in Php 920.00 Php 1,840.00

diameter, 1 in

hole diameter

V-Belts • 1 pc 4PK830 Php 415.00 Php 415.00

V-ribbed belt

• 1 pc 4pk615 Php 586.00 Php 586.00

V-ribbed belt

Sheet Metal 1pc 4" X 8" X 1/8 Inch Php 985.19 Php 985.19

High Tensile Ht 32pcs x 4mm x 25mm Php Php 416.00

Us Hexagonal 13.00/each

Bolt

SUB-TOTAL Php 23,101.67

Table 7.

Cost of the Peduncle Shredder.

 71

CONCLUSION

The banana peduncle has no consistent diameter along its length. The

upper diameter ranges from 7.13 cm to 7.16 cm, the middle diameter ranges from

5.55 cm to 5.83 cm, and the bottom diameter ranges from 3.77 cm to 3.80 cm. The

bunch stalk rind varies in thickness depending on the variety with average value

of the thickness of bunch stalk rind is 1.52 ± 0.82 mm. The average range of the

axial distance of banana hands we obtained is 50.48~129.99 mm. The average

value of the axial distance of banana hands that the researchers are able to

determine was 87.431 ± 25.898 mm. In some cases, there are peduncles that are

bent and hard. Based on the physical properties of the banana peduncle, which

has variations in diameter throughout its length, the cutting blade design must be

constantly moveable and capable of accommodating the diameter discrepancies

during the actual de-handling process.

The best selected blade design for separating banana bunch from its

peduncle is a double-edged knife mounted to a 360 degrees ball roller which is the

most appropriate than sharpened half-conical blade with up and down mechanism

and back-sharpened sickle with rotating mechanism. This rotating blade can

separate the banana from its peduncle effectively based on solid works simulation.

The best selected design for the peduncle shredder is twin shaft shredder machine

with the sum up of 20 stainless steel claw knife blades that could shred any

physical properties of the banana peduncle. All design were selected through

mathematical computation and finite element analysis through SolidWorks

software supplemented with engineering calculations.

 72

RECOMMENDATIONS

This project study entitled Banana Peduncle Shredder and Bunch

Separator aims to provide solution by creating a mechanized way of de-handling

of banana and shredding of banana peduncle. Researchers have proven the

capability of the machine in executing these processes and recommend to use the

machine for better execution of the processes in the production of banana.

Moreover, further improvisation of the machine is highly recommended. The

following are recognized by researchers as the significant factors to consider for

refinement of the machine.

1. The fabrication of the machine must be done to measure the cutting accuracy

and cutting rate of the machine for further test of its effectiveness.

2. Researchers only focuses on straight length of banana peduncle. Non-straight

geometry of the banana peduncle should be considered.

3. The cutting blade plays a significant role in the machine to execute de-handling.

Therefore, researchers suggest more enhanced design of cutting blade for better

adaptability while ensuring its ability to resist stress.

4. The machine requires proper orientation of the banana fruit to be feed to the

machine for de-handling. Researchers suggest a better transportation mechanism

of banana from picking to the machine that ensures proper orientation.

5. Researchers suggest consideration of designing this kind of machine that can

handle larger scale production and fully automation of the machine for faster

production.
 73

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