Design and Performance Stress Analysis of an Archetype Yam Peeling Machine

Abstract

Yam peeling machines are automated machines used to facilitate the peeling of yams without the need for manual labour. Such machines are designed to reduce waste, save time, and increase efficiency when peeling yams by removing the skin quickly and with minimal loss of an edible portion of the yam. In this report, a peeling machine capable of peeling the back skin of the yam was designed. A detailed drawing of the proposed machine is presented, and a part-by-part representation of the critical component of the machine is also outlined using Auto Desk inventor software. The power of the electric motor used to produce the rotational motion of the machine is computed using the torque calculated from the drive pulley of the belt attached to the motor. With the power, torque, and speed determined, all design calculations on all components of the machine were computed using basic design formulas. The results of these calculations were used in modelling the peeling machine. Auto desk Inventor and Ansys structural software were used to simulate and modify the design to ensure design compliance. With the minimum and maximum sizes computed from the methodology, different design sizes and materials were varied in the simulation to locate points of maximum stress and displacement to aid part and material selections. In conclusion, a detailed yam peeling machine that can be adopted for both domestic and commercial purposes was designed with the performance-stress analysis presented for ease of fabrication and production. All materials and components used in the design can be sourced, bought and made locally. The machine is cheap, easy to use and, maintained.