Extracting complete kernel from shell of half coconut - with machine blades which separate kernel without cutting it (BR 8.8.78)

摘要

The half nut is held while several spaced, flexible narrow blades are inserted between shell and kernel. The blades are pushed in at right angles to the diametral plane at which the half nut was split away. The leading ends of the blades follow the internal concavity of the shell with a convergent progress along meridian paths without cuttin into the kernel. At the end of the cutting operation, the curved spring blades eject the shell by straightening out when the shell is no longer held on to the blades. At least three, pref. six blades are used and entry is assisted with a succession of percussive shocks. The blade holders are pref. radially adjustable in worktable slots to line up the leading ends of the blades with the interface between shell and kernel. This alignment is pref. adjusted w.r.t. a sensing knife which 'feels' through the kernel and stops at the shell. The flexibility of each blade is pref. enhanced by decreasing its width and/or thickness from base to leading end, and/or making holes through the blade. The blades are pref. curved to radius approx. equal to that of the half nut.