Design and Development of a Semi-Automatic Coconut Broom Stick Machine

This paper focuses on the design and development of a semi-automatic machine to separate individual dry coconut leaves into their stick (stem) and leaf portions, aimed at streamlining broomstick production. The machine is powered by a 1/4 HP direct-drive motor, which drives two rubber rollers via a shaft supported by Unit Cast Pedestal (UCP) bearings. As the coconut leaf is fed into the machine, the rollers pull it through, while a precisely positioned blade mechanism efficiently detaches the stick from the leaf. The structure of the machine is constructed using durable mild steel (MS) sheet metal, ensuring robustness and longevity while securely housing all components. Key design considerations include motor configuration, blade placement, and material selection for strength and weight optimization. The design process employs CAD modelling for precision and visualization, while testing and iterative refinements ensure optimal machine performance. This semi-automatic solution aims to enhance productivity, minimize manual labour, and improve efficiency in the broomstick manufacturing process. The paper serves as a significant step towards mechanizing traditional tasks in rural industries, offering a cost-effective and reliable alternative to manual leaf separation methods.