Development of a Coconut (Cocos nucifera) Cutting Machine for Village-Level Coco-Juice Production in Samar, Philippines

This study presents the design and fabrication of a low-cost motorized Cutting machine intended to support village-level young-coconut juice production in Samar, Philippines. The prototype aims to provide a safer, faster, and more consistent alternative to manual cutting practices commonly used in local coconut-based microenterprises. The machine features a 14-inch carbon-steel cutting blade mounted on a 1-inch rotating shaft supported by pillow block bearings, powered by a 1.0-horsepower electric motor through a V-belt and pulley transmission system with an integrated gear reduction mechanism. A stainless-steel coconut catcher with ergonomic gripping elements and an optional juice-punch attachment enhances stability and improves pre-extraction capability. Locally sourced materials and conventional workshop processes were utilized to ensure manufacturability and accessibility for rural users, with a total fabrication cost estimated at approximately PHP 15,500.
This paper presents the development stages including conceptual design, material selection, construction procedures, and power transmission calculations to validate operational feasibility. Performance evaluation parameters, such as throughput, cut uniformity, juice recovery, vibration, user safety, and operator effort, are identified for future testing. The prototype demonstrates the potential of appropriate-technology solutions to strengthen grassroots mechanization and contribute to livelihood improvement in coconut-producing communities.