Design of a Cocoa Pod Splitting Machine

This study outlines the design of a very efficient, highly productive, cost- effective, ergonomic and environmentally friendly cocoa splitting machine that will be used by cocoa Farmers world - wide to increase and boost productivity and enhance the quality of coca products to the highest possible level devoid of any hazards, dangers or perils. This machine can be manufactured from locally available scraps and assembled and maintained at a relatively low cost. The knives which do the splitting are actuated by simple hydraulic mechanisms devoid any major stresses, forces or moments acting on them. These mechanisms are powered by simple low - powered lobe positive displacement or hydrostatic hydraulic pumps of power rating of 87.5 kW (65.625 Hp). The machine can be assembled and/or disassembled easily and quickly, and, therefore can be owned patronized by a group of cocoa farmers who can easily bear the low cost of maintenance of the already relative cheap machine.