Publication: Design of an ergonomic palm oil harvesting tool
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Date
2023-07-01
Authors
Muhamad Muhaimin Bin Mohd Sopi
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Abstract
Malaysia, the second-largest palm oil producer globally, heavily relies on manual harvesting methods due to their cost-effectiveness and success compared to limited mechanization. However, manual harvesting poses physical challenges and ergonomic risks to workers, leading to musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) and fatigue. This study aims to design an ergonomic palm oil harvesting tool to enhance worker comfort and efficiency while addressing health concerns. The research follows a systematic tool design process, including technological research, preliminary design development, design verification, and cutting mechanism prototype development. The prototype incorporates an air motor-driven cutting tool that vibrates, reducing the force required for cutting palm oil fronds and fresh fruit bunches (FFB) and minimizing repetitive cutting attempts. Moreover, the study emphasizes the importance of proper pruning angles in palm oil harvesting to maintain tree health and productivity. The calculated allowable pruning angle, based on pole deflection, ensures controlled and precise harvesting, minimizing damage to trees and surrounding vegetation. Low pole deflection contributes to worker safety by providing stability and reducing the risk of accidents. Additionally, the newly designed harvesting tool significantly reduces the force applied by workers, leading to a 91.3% reduction in force compared to manual methods. The vibration-assisted cutting process alleviates worker fatigue and mitigates the risk of MSDs. This research fills a gap in literature concerning ergonomic palm oil harvesting tool development, with a focus on user perspective, health effects, and ergonomic design. The proposed tool offers lightweight construction, ease of use, and an efficient cutting mechanism, contributing to improved worker well-being and enhanced productivity in the palm oil industry.