Abstract

The Pedal-Powered Maize Sheller project aims to address challenges faced by small-scale farmers in maize shelling. Its primary purpose is to develop a cost-effective, electricity-free device to enhance shelling efficiency, reduce physical effort, and increase productivity. Data collection methods included consultations with farmers to understand their needs, prototype testing, and performance evaluations. Key observations showed that traditional methods are time-intensive and physically demanding, while the pedal-powered sheller significantly improves shelling efficiency, increasing output by 70%. In conclusion, this project provides a sustainable and ergonomic solution to post-harvest challenges, offering farmers an affordable tool to enhance productivity and reduce labor. The pedal-powered maize sheller has the potential to contribute to improved livelihoods and food security in rural communities.

1. Introduction

Maize is a critical food crop and a key livelihood source in many regions. However, post-harvest processing, particularly maize shelling, presents significant challenges for smallholder farmers. Manual shelling is labor-intensive, inefficient, and limits productivity, while powered shellers are often unaffordable and inaccessible in rural areas.

2. Statement of the Problem/Originality

Traditional maize shelling methods are slow, physically exhausting, and prone to inefficiencies that lead to post-harvest losses. Rural farmers lack affordable and sustainable alternatives. The pedal-powered maize sheller provides an innovative, electricity-free solution that improves efficiency, reduces manual labor, and addresses the challenges of rural farmers.

3. Objectives/Hypotheses

Objectives: 1. To design and fabricate a pedal-powered maize sheller. 2. To evaluate its efficiency and performance compared to manual shelling methods. 3. To determine user satisfaction and accessibility of the device.
Hypotheses: A pedal-powered maize sheller will significantly improve shelling efficiency. It will reduce the time and effort required for maize shelling.

4. Justification and Significance

This project is justified by its potential to address critical post-harvest challenges in rural farming. By providing a sustainable, cost-effective alternative to manual shelling, the project aims to: Enhance productivity and reduce labor. Empower small-scale farmers with an accessible tool. Contribute to improved food security and economic growth.

5. Limitations

Merits: Low-cost, portable, and environmentally friendly. Requires no electricity, making it suitable for remote areas.
Demerits: Limited to small-scale use. Requires manual pedaling, which may be physically demanding for some users.

6. Assumptions/Precautions

Assumptions: Farmers will adopt the device due to its affordability and ease of use.
Precautions: Ensure the sheller is durable, safe, and easy to maintain. Provide user training for efficient operation.

Methodology

1. Apparatus Used

Bicycle frame and pedals. Shelling drum with spikes. Chain and sprocket mechanism. Hopper for maize feeding. Stable support frame.

2. Procedure/Setup

Assemble the bicycle frame with the shelling drum and chain mechanism. Attach the hopper for feeding maize into the shelling drum. Ensure the frame is stable and secure. Test the device with different maize loads and adjust pedaling speed for optimum performance.

3. Variables

Independent Variable: Pedaling speed. Dependent Variable: Maize shelling efficiency. Controlled Variables: Type of maize, drum design, and device setup.

4. Observations

Faster pedaling resulted in quicker shelling, but excessive speed required more physical effort. The sheller reduced shelling time by up to 70% compared to manual methods. Farmers reported high satisfaction with the device’s efficiency and ergonomic design.

Conclusion

The pedal-powered maize sheller is a practical and sustainable solution for small-scale farmers. It eliminates the need for electricity, increases shelling efficiency, and reduces physical strain. The device’s affordability and portability make it an ideal tool for rural communities, addressing critical post-harvest challenges and contributing to improved livelihoods and food security. Further improvements and user training can enhance adoption and maximize its benefits.