DESC:FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a post-harvest handling portable apparatus and method thereof. More particularly, it relates to a portable apparatus and a method for post-harvest handling of fruits or vegetables.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention’s focus is based on an ecosystem and supply chain of fruits and vegetables. Various research was conducted in various states, engaging with a diverse group consisting of individual farmers, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), agricultural experts, and processing units. During this study, a critical gap was identified in the post-harvest handling of freshly collected fruits and vegetables.
[0003] Particularly, it was observed that freshly collected fruits and vegetables often retain mud, saps, and other contaminants from agricultural field, which must be processed before they can be packaged, transported, or sold. However, conventional systems fail to offer any portable or field-deployable solution for immediate processing at a source of harvest. This results in delays in post-harvest processing, during which the fruits and vegetables are prone to physical damage, microbial decay, and surface deterioration - manifesting as dark brown or blackish spots on the skin of fruits and vegetables.
[0004] Such deterioration significantly impacts both the quality and market value of the products, often leading to reduced shelf life, spoilage, and financial losses for farmers. The absence of a quick, on-site cleaning mechanism thus represents a major bottleneck in the supply chain, particularly for smallholder farmers and FPOs who lack access to centralized cleaning or processing infrastructure.
[0005] For example, challenges in mango farming and its associated supply chain illustrate broader inefficiencies affecting post-harvest handling of fruits. Mangoes account for nearly 20% of the country's total fruit production, yet the industry suffers from post-harvest losses as high as 30%, compounded by unfavorable climatic conditions over recent years that have adversely impacted yield and quality. These issues have escalated maintenance costs and led to declining profitability for mango growers. Traditionally, mangoes are transported in their raw, unprocessed form, but this practice contributes significantly to post-harvest damage. A major cause of such loss is sap injury, which alone accounts for approximately 20% of total post-harvest losses. Sap released during harvesting damages the fruit’s surface, compromising its appearance, shelf life, and market value. As a result, mangoes affected by sap injuries are often rejected by export and premium markets, restricting access to high-value supply chains and limiting growth opportunities for farmers.
[0006] Additionally, existing solutions described in conventional disclosures primarily involve large, stationary machinery that is typically installed at centralized processing facilities. As a result, farmers are required to transport freshly harvested produce over considerable distances for cleaning and processing. This delay can lead to the accumulation of sap, mud, or other contaminants on the fruits or vegetables, which adversely affects their quality, appearance, and shelf life. Moreover, the process of manually collecting, transporting, and handling large volumes of perishable produce imposes a significant logistical and physical burden on farmers, particularly smallholders. Consequently, such centralized post-harvest procedures are often impractical, labor-intensive, and economically unviable for timely and efficient processing at the farm level.
[0007] Therefore, the present invention seeks to address these challenges by providing a portable, efficient, and easy-to-use post-harvest handling of the fruits and vegetables that can be deployed immediately after harvesting, thereby improving product quality, reducing post-harvest losses, and enhancing the economic return for farmers.
OBJECT OF THE INVENTION:
[0008] It is an object of the present invention to provide an integrated apparatus for performing post- harvest handling operations.
[0009] It is another object of the present invention to provide for a compact and scalable apparatus/ device, which is adaptable to a user environment.
[0010] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide for an apparatus which enables on-farm processing alongside the harvest.
[0011] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide for a holder design for holding and processing various types of fruits/ vegetables, within the apparatus to enable processing of fruits/ vegetables, without compromising on shape or other qualities.
[0012] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide for a method of post-harvest handling of fruits or vegetables.
[0013] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide for a method which minimizes transportation losses associated with sap injuries and other post- harvest issues, ensuring that a higher percentage of the harvest reaches the market in optimal condition.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0014] One or more shortcomings of the prior art are overcome, and additional advantages are provided through the present disclosure. Additional features and advantages are realized through the techniques of the present disclosure. Other embodiments and aspects of the disclosure are described in detail herein and are considered a part of the claimed disclosure.
[0015] According to an embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a portable apparatus for post-harvest handling of fruits or vegetables. The apparatus comprises a structural frame supporting one or more components, and an inlet chute configured to receive the fruits or vegetable. Thereby, the inlet chute guides the fruits or vegetable onto a conveyor for further processing. The conveyor extends from the inlet chute to an outlet. Further, the apparatus comprises a plurality of fruit holder assemblies mounted on the conveyor and connected with the inlet chute. Each fruit holder assembly comprises a set of rollers arranged serially across the width of the conveyor. Each roller comprises a central saddle formed by a junction of two opposing conical or frustoconical sections.
[0016] Furthermore, the apparatus comprises a plurality of rotary cleaning units positioned towards the outlet of the apparatus. Each rotary cleaning unit comprises a rotating brush that rotates on its own axis to gently scrub outer surface of the fruits or vegetables and thereby moves the fruits or vegetables towards the outlet. One or more spraying units are adapted above and below of the conveyor path and configured to spray de-sapping solution and/or clean water from both top and bottom directions towards the fruits or vegetables placed on the plurality of fruit holder assemblies and the plurality of rotary cleaning units. Moreover, the apparatus comprises a drying station comprising a blower or hot-air unit positioned towards end portion of the outlet to dry the de-sapped or cleaned fruits or vegetables discharged from the outlet. Additionally, the apparatus comprises an actuation-based grading unit configured to actuate in pre-defined direction based on weight to automatically grade the dried fruits or vegetables.
[0017] According to an embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a method for post-harvest handling of fruits or vegetables using a portable apparatus. The method comprises receiving the fruits or vegetables through an inlet chute and guiding them onto a conveyor extending toward an outlet. Further, the method comprises cradling the fruits or vegetables on a plurality of fruit holder assemblies mounted on the conveyor. Each fruit holder assembly comprises a set of rollers arranged serially across the width of the conveyor. Each roller of the set of rollers comprising a central saddle formed by a junction of two opposing conical or frustoconical sections. Furthermore, the method comprises spraying de-sapping solution and/or clean water from one or more spraying units disposed above and below the conveyor onto the fruits or vegetables placed on the fruit holder assemblies. Subsequently, the method comprises brushing the sprayed fruits or vegetables using a plurality of rotary cleaning units along with spraying the de-sapping solution and/or clean water during the brushing, each rotary cleaning unit comprising a rotating brush configured to scrub the surface of the fruits or vegetables. Thereby, the method comprises drying the cleaned fruits or vegetables using a drying station comprising a blower or hot-air unit positioned toward the outlet. Moreover, the method comprises grading the dried fruits or vegetables using an actuation-based grading unit, wherein the grading unit actuates in a predefined direction based on weight measured for each fruit or vegetable.
[0018] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.
A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] The novel features and characteristics of the disclosure are set forth in the appended claims. The disclosure itself, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives, and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description of an illustrative embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying figures. One or more embodiments are now described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying figures wherein like reference numerals represent like elements and in which:
Figure 1 illustrates perspective view diagram of the portable apparatus for post-harvest handling of fruits or vegetables, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 2A illustrates top view diagram of the portable apparatus for post-harvest handling of fruits or vegetables, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 2B illustrates side view diagram of the portable apparatus for post-harvest handling of fruits or vegetables, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 3 illustrates perspective view, sectional side view, and front view of each roller of the fruit holder assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 4 illustrates the rotating brush for scrubbing outer surface of the fruits/ vegetables, in accordance with an enclosure of the present disclosure;
Figure 5 illustrates perspective diagram with various components of the actuation-based grading unit, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and
Figure 6 illustrates a flow chart of a method for post-harvest handling of fruits or vegetables using the portable apparatus 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0020] In the present document, the word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any embodiment or implementation of the present subject matter described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.
[0021] While the disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiment thereof has been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail below. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended to limit the disclosure to the forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and the scope of the disclosure.
[0022] The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a setup, device, or process that comprises a list of components or steps does not include only those components or steps but may include other components or steps not expressly listed or inherent to such setup or device or process. In other words, one or more elements in a system or apparatus proceeded by “comprises… a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the system or apparatus.
[0023] In the following detailed description of the embodiments of the disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and which are shown by way of illustration-specific embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The following description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.
[0024] The following description illustrates various embodiments of the present invention and ways of implementation. The embodiments described herein are not intended to be limited to the disclosure and that the same is in no way a limitation. The invention may be embodied in different forms without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure.
[0025] The present invention, in another embodiment, discloses a portable apparatus and method for post-harvest handling of fruits or vegetables to improve quality, reduce losses, and enhance market access for farmers.
[0026] Figure 1 illustrates perspective view diagram of the portable apparatus for post-harvest handling of fruits or vegetables, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0027] Particularly, Figure 1(A) discloses perspective view from outlet section of the portable apparatus. Further, Figure 1(B) discloses perspective view from inlet section of the portable apparatus.
[0028] Figure 2A illustrates top view diagram of the portable apparatus for post-harvest handling of fruits or vegetables, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0029] Figure 2B illustrates side view diagram of the portable apparatus for post-harvest handling of fruits or vegetables, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0030] Referring to Figure 1, the portable apparatus 100 (hereinafter may be alternatively recited as “the apparatus 100”) comprises a structural frame 102 supporting one or more components of the apparatus. The structural frame 102 houses and stabilizes the various mechanical and functional components involved in the post-harvest handling process. The structural frame 102 serves as the foundational structure upon which all subsystems are mounted. In an exemplary embodiment, the structural frame 102 may be fabricated from durable, lightweight materials such as stainless steel or high-strength aluminum alloy, ensuring corrosion resistance, structural stability, and ease of mobility in agricultural environments.
[0031] According to an embodiment, the apparatus 100 comprises an inlet chute 104 configured to receive the fruits or vegetable. Thereby, the inlet chute 104 is configured to guide the fruits or vegetable onto a conveyor for further processing. The conveyor extends from the inlet chute 104 to an outlet 106. The inlet chute 104 refers to a guided entry structure positioned at the front end of the apparatus 100, configured to receive freshly harvested fruits or vegetables and direct them onto the conveyor path in a controlled and uniform manner. Such guided transition minimizes mechanical damage and ensures smooth downstream processing. The inlet chute 104 may be inclined or contoured to facilitate gravitational flow and may include cushioning or lining material to reduce impact on delicate produce. Once the fruits or vegetables are moved from the inlet chute 104 to the conveyor path, various processing, such as cleaning, brushing, etc., are performed through the conveyor path. Upon completion of these processes, the treated fruits or vegetables exit the apparatus 100 through the outlet 106.
[0032] According to an embodiment, the apparatus 100 comprises a plurality of fruit holder assemblies 108 mounted on the conveyor and connected with the inlet chute 104. The plurality of fruit holder assemblies 108 receives the raw unprocessed harvested fruits or vegetables from the inlet chute 104. Each fruit holder assembly 108 are arranged parallelly with minimum distance between themselves. Such fruit assemblies are configured to keep or hold the fruits or vegetables in such a way that the fruits or vegetables are being securely hold by the plurality of fruit holder assemblies 108. Each fruit holder assembly 108 comprises a set of rollers arranged serially across the width of the conveyor. Figure 3 illustrates perspective view, sectional side view, and front view of each roller of the fruit holder assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to Figure 3, each roller 302 comprises a central saddle formed by a junction of two opposing conical or frustoconical sections. Further, cross sectional side view of the roller 304 illustrates that width of the central saddle point is lesser than extreme ends of the two opposite conical sections. Furthermore, the front view of the roller 306 illustrates an outermost ends using a solid line, while the central saddle-shaped region of each roller 302 is represented by a dotted line. When multiple rollers are arranged consecutively in series, they collectively form recessed holding spaces designed to securely cradle the fruits or vegetables during processing.
[0033] Each roller 302 among the set of rollers is adapted to support individual fruit or vegetable in an inverted, upright, or lateral orientation depending on shape and type of product. This flexible positioning ensures stable engagement of the products with downstream cleaning mechanisms, such as spraying and brushing units. Further, each roller 302 is fixed or rotatable about its axis and is shaped to accommodate the fruits or vegetables of varying size and shape without making any physical damage of the products. Such design accommodates a wide range of produce types, from round fruits like apples and oranges to elongated vegetables like cucumbers or eggplants, ensuring gentle handling. Furthermore, each roller 302 of the set of rollers are made of Polyamide (PA) Type 6 plastic or any food-grade resilient polymer capable of absorbing minor mechanical shocks. The polymer enables the rollers to cushion minor impacts while remaining compliant with hygiene and safety standards for direct food contact.
[0034] According to another embodiment, serial and parallel arrangement of the set of rollers 302 across the conveyor defines multiple discrete support lanes for the fruits or vegetables, enabling simultaneous handling of a batch of fruits or vegetables. The serial and parallel arrangement of the set of rollers 302 allows each lane to act as an independent channel for receiving and conveying individual fruits or vegetables, thereby enabling the simultaneous handling of multiple products in a single processing cycle. The serial placement ensures longitudinal alignment of rollers 302 along the conveyor’s movement direction, while the parallel orientation across the conveyor’s width facilitates lateral segmentation into dedicated processing lanes. This multi-lane architecture significantly increases throughput, supports batch-wise operation, and ensures that each fruit or vegetable is uniformly exposed to the cleaning, brushing.
[0035] According to another embodiment, the set of rollers 302 are mounted on adjustable support allowing flexible height or spacing changes to accommodate different fruit sizes or varieties without requiring changes to the structural frame 102. The set of rollers 302 is mounted on a slotted sub-frame or bracket positioned transversely across the conveyor assembly. These brackets are affixed to vertical guide slots formed along the side rails of the structural frame 102. The slots allow vertical movement of the roller bracket, which can be fixed at a desired height using one or more mechanisms. In an exemplary embodiment, the one or more mechanisms may relate to, but not limited to, locking bolts, spring-loaded pins, adjustable clamps, etc.
[0036] According to another embodiment, the set of rollers 302 are mounted on telescopic shafts or threaded screw-type mounts with a hand-crank or knob, enabling fine adjustment of roller height without disassembly. To allow lateral spacing variation, each roller 302 is optionally mounted on a horizontal sliding track with incremental detents or tightening knobs. This modular and tool-less adjustability allows the apparatus to handle fruits of different diameters without structural modification. In a non-limiting example, the fruits of different diameters relate to, but not limited to, small-sized Amrapali mangoes, larger Mallika varieties, etc.
[0037] In a non-limiting example, the inlet chute 104 receives harvested mangoes either directly after plucking from mango trees or following an initial pre-processing step performed post-harvest. Thereby, the inlet chute 104 directs the harvested mangoes with sap towards to the plurality of fruit holder assemblies 108. The set of rollers are arranged to keep the mangoes, preferably on inverted position, on top of the rollers such that the mangoes can go through the conveyor for further processing.
[0038] According to an embodiment, as illustrated in Figure 1, the apparatus 100 comprises one or more spraying units 112 (hereinafter may be alternatively referred to as “the spraying units 112”) adapted above and below of the conveyor path. The spraying units 112 are configured to spray de-sapping solution and/or clean water from both top and bottom directions towards the fruits or vegetables placed on the plurality of fruit holder assemblies 108. The spraying units 112 are specifically designed to eject de-sapping solution and/or clean water under controlled pressure from both directions, that is, top and bottom, targeting the fruits or vegetables (hereinafter may be alternatively referred to as “the products”) as they move along the conveyor while being securely held in the plurality of fruit holder assemblies 108. Such spraying mechanism from two directions ensures that all surfaces of the products are effectively treated, including hard-to-reach areas around stem or contact points with the holders. Use of a de-sapping solution helps to neutralize or wash away natural sap exudates, especially in fruits like mangoes, thereby preventing sap burn injuries, discoloration, and spoilage. Additionally, the top and bottom spray alignment ensures that residual mud, dust, or field contaminants are dislodged efficiently, improving hygiene and visual appeal. Such continuous inline spraying process operates in synchrony with the conveyor’s movement, allowing for high-throughput, non-stop cleaning, making it suitable for field-level deployment and reducing the need for manual pre-cleaning.
[0039] Further, the spraying units 112 are configured with adjustable pressure output, controlled via manually with a control dial or electronically through an interface, allowing optimization of spray force based on product fragility, from gentle misting for soft fruits to high-pressure jets for root crops. In a non-limiting example, gentle misting can be applied to delicate, soft-skinned fruits such as strawberries or grapes to avoid bruising. While higher-pressure jets can be utilized for more robust produce like root vegetables (e.g., potatoes, carrots) that may require forceful washing to remove embedded soil or residues. Such flexible pressure control of the spraying unit 112 not only ensures effective and safe cleaning across a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, but also enhances operational versatility, making the apparatus 100 suitable for diverse agricultural contexts and crop types.
[0040] According to an embodiment, as illustrated in Figure 1, the apparatus 100 comprises a plurality of rotary cleaning units 110 positioned towards the outlet 106 of the apparatus 100. Each rotary cleaning unit comprises a rotating brush that rotates on its own axis to gently scrub outer surface of the fruits or vegetables and thereby moves the fruits or vegetables towards the outlet 106. Also, the spraying units 112 are configured to spray de-sapping solution and/or clean water from both top and bottom directions towards the fruits or vegetables placed on the plurality of rotary cleaning units 110. Therefore, scrubbing along with spraying of liquid ensures removal of all remaining sap or mud or debris from the products.
[0041] Figure 4 illustrates the rotating brush for scrubbing outer surface of the fruits/ vegetables, in accordance with an enclosure of the present disclosure. Such rotating brushes are aligned such that they come into contact with the products held within the plurality of fruit holder assemblies 108, ensuring that any remaining sap, mud, or debris dislodged by the spraying units 112 is thoroughly removed. Orientation and movement of the rotating brushes not only clean the surface but also serve a dual purpose, by imparting a forward motion to the products, they assist in gradually propelling the items toward the outlet 106. Such coordinated mechanical action ensures a continuous flow of produce through the apparatus, enhancing throughput efficiency and minimizing manual handling. Figure 4 specifically depicts a single rotary brush. Multiple rotary brushes are serially positioned to provide uniform coverage and consistent contact with the products as it advances through the cleaning section of the apparatus.
[0042] Figure 4 illustrates a rotating brush 402. The rotating brush 402 rotates in its own axis to clean the products passes through it. Further, cross sectional side view of the rotating brush 404 illustrates various shafts present on a side of the rotating brush. Furthermore, Figure 4 also illustrates the front view of the rotating brush 406.
[0043] According to another embodiment, the rotary cleaning unit 110 may further comprise a detachable brush head embedded with micro-abrasive bristles or disinfectant coating. The detachable brush head may be configured to remove fungal residues, including Sooty Mold, from the outer surface of the fruits or vegetables during rotation. The detachable brush head is specifically designed to facilitate easy maintenance, cleaning, or replacement based on the type of produce being processed or the level of cleaning required. During operation, the rotational motion of the brush head, in contact with the products held in the plurality of rotary cleaning units 110, ensures that the cleaning action is uniform and thorough, enhancing both the visual appeal and hygiene of the final products.
[0044] According to an embodiment, as illustrated in Figure 1, the apparatus 100 comprises a drying station 114, that comprises a blower or hot-air unit positioned towards end portion of the outlet 106 to dry the de-sapped or cleaned fruits or vegetables discharged from the outlet 106. The drying station 114 performs final surface drying of the fruits or vegetables after they have undergone de-sapping and cleaning processes. The blower or hot-air unit is configured to directs a controlled stream of air, either at ambient or elevated temperatures, towards the products. The purpose of this drying operation by the drying station 114 is to remove residual moisture left from the spraying and cleaning phases, thereby preventing microbial growth, enhancing products shelf life, and improving the visual appeal and market readiness of the products. The placement of the drying station 114 near the outlet ensures that the fruits or vegetables are fully processed and ready for immediate packaging or transport, eliminating the need for additional post-processing steps.
[0045] According to another embodiment, the drying station 114 may comprises a heated air knives or surface scraping units to accelerate the removal of excess surface moisture and residual soil particles from root vegetables, such as such as potatoes, carrots, or beets, which often retain moisture and debris even after conventional washing. The heated air knives operate by generating narrow, high-velocity streams of warm air, which are precisely directed at the surface of the produce to dislodge and evaporate residual water in a highly efficient manner. These components work in tandem to accelerate the drying and finishing phase, thereby ensuring that the produce exits the apparatus in a clean, dry, and market-ready condition, suitable for immediate packing, grading, or transport.
[0046] According to another embodiment, the apparatus 100 may be equipped with an ambient temperature sensor and a relative humidity sensor placed in proximity to the drying station 114. Based on real-time environmental data, a controller dynamically adjusts the blower speed and air temperature. In a non-limiting example, on days with low humidity and high ambient temperature, the apparatus 100 reduces heater usage to save power while still achieving efficient drying. On cooler or humid days, the heater is activated to maintain drying efficiency. This intelligent feedback mechanism optimizes energy usage and protects the fruits from overheating or shrinkage, especially when operated in variable field conditions.
[0047] According to an embodiment, as illustrated in Figure 1, the apparatus 100 comprises an actuation-based grading unit 116 (hereinafter may be alternatively referred to as “the grading unit 116”) configured to actuate in pre-defined direction based on weight to automatically grade the dried fruits or vegetables. The dried fruits or vegetables is then placed individually and sequentially onto the grading unit 116, where a weight sensor or load cell detects its mass. Based on this measurement, the actuation mechanism directs the item into a specific chute, bin, or collection path, corresponding to its assigned weight category (e.g., small, medium, large).
[0048] Figure 5 illustrates perspective diagram with various components of the actuation-based grading unit, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0049] As illustrated in Figure 5, the grading unit 116 comprises a weight sensing module 502 configured to measure the weight of each dried fruit or vegetable placed on a tiltable or pivotable grading head 510. The grading unit 116 comprises a controlling unit operatively connected to the weight sensing module 502. The controlling unit being configured to compare the measured weight with a set of predefined threshold weight values. An actuation mechanism comprises a servo motor or stepper motor 506 operatively coupled to the tiltable or pivotable grading head. The grading head is configured to bend or tilt toward a corresponding collection bucket based on control signals received from the controlling unit in response to a result of comparison between the measured weight with the set of predefined threshold weight values. The tiltable or pivotable grading head 510 is mounted with a mounting bracket 508 in order to bend or tilt in different directions based on precise angular movement of the servo motor or stepper motor 506. Further, the grading unit 116 comprises various rods, screws 504, supporting rod, end rod bearing to provide necessary support to all components. Further, the grading unit 116 comprises a loadcell mounting plate for supporting the tiltable or pivotable grading head 510, and a base plate for supporting various rods, motors, etc. Additionally, the grading unit 116 comprises a display unit to display weight of the products along with selected bucket for such weight. Moreover, the grading unit 116 further comprises various control buttons, such that a user can easily configure the set of predefined threshold weight values along with direction of bend or tilt of the tiltable or pivotable grading head 510 based on the threshold values.
[0050] According to another embodiment, the grading unit 116 includes a return-to-neutral mechanism that repositions the tiltable or pivotable grading head 510 to a default position after each sorting cycle. During each grading cycle, the tiltable or pivotable grading head 510 tilts or pivots in a specific direction based on the measured weight of the fruit or vegetable, allowing the item to be directed into the appropriate output bin or path. Once the sorting operation is executed, a return-to-neutral mechanism restores the grading head to its original horizontal or central position. The return-to-neutral mechanism may be implemented, but not limited to, through means such as spring tension, servo reset commands, or counterweight balancing, etc. Such automatic reset ensures the grading unit is ready to receive the next item without requiring manual intervention or delays, thereby enabling continuous and uninterrupted operation.
[0051] According to another embodiment, the grading unit 116 may be designed to be detachable and interchangeable with alternate grading mechanisms such as conveyor diverters, optical sorting mounts, or manual pass-through chutes, based on commodity-specific grading needs. The detachable grading system ensures compatibility with various grading techniques, protecting future modularity and upgrades.
[0052] According to an embodiment, the apparatus 100 comprises a single fluid reservoir connected to a pump for supplying the de-sapping solution and/or the clean water to the one or more spraying units 112. The single fluid reservoir serves as a centralized storage unit for storing de-sapping solution and/or clean water for cleaning the products. The single fluid reservoir may be adapted below the conveyor. The pump actively supplies the liquid to the one or more spraying units 112 positioned above and below the conveyor path. The pump ensures a controlled and pressurized delivery of the liquid, enabling consistent and uniform spraying across all fruits or vegetables passing through the system. Further, to enhance resource efficiency and reduce wastage, the apparatus 100 comprises a recirculation duct unit for collecting and returning used liquid to the single fluid reservoir. Such closed-loop fluid management system not only minimizes water and chemical usage, but also supports sustainable and cost-effective operation.
[0053] According to an embodiment, as the apparatus 100 is designed to be the portable device, therefore, the apparatus 100 is energized by a power unit that can be selected from a variety of source. Specifically, the power unit may comprise any of the following: a dynamo, which can generate electricity through manual or mechanical motion; a battery pack, which offers portability and rechargeable convenience; a solar panel, ideal for remote or off-grid operations with abundant sunlight; a grid-connected electric supply for conventional use in areas with stable power infrastructure; or a fuel-powered generator, which ensures uninterrupted operation in rural or emergency scenarios where other power sources are unavailable. Such flexible energy configuration enables the apparatus to be deployed directly in agricultural fields, remote collection points, or on-farm processing stations, without dependency on fixed electrical lines or centralized facilities.
[0054] According to an embodiment, the apparatus 100 comprises a detachable or foldable chassis integrated with shock-absorbing wheels, allowing the apparatus to be easily towed by a tractor or small vehicle across varied terrain in orchards and farms. The set of shock-absorbing wheels are adapted to absorb vibrations and uneven movements, thereby enabling the apparatus 100 to be safely and smoothly transported across varied terrains, including rugged farm paths, orchard rows, and muddy fields. Such configuration allows the apparatus 100 to be portable and can be reachable directly to the agriculture field to assist the farmer to process the harvested products. The portable and field-reachable configuration of the apparatus thereby serves as a practical and farmer-friendly solution, especially for smallholder and marginal farmers, promoting timely processing and reducing post-harvest losses.
[0055] According to an embodiment, the apparatus 100 may comprise a modular attachment interface configured to allow quick replacement of crop-specific components. The crop-specific components may relate to, but not limited to, the inlet chutes, the plurality of fruit holders, one or more spray nozzles, or roller profiles, to enable processing of multiple crop types including round fruits, elongated fruits, and root vegetables. The modular attachment interface enables different components to be adapted based on type of products without having any requirement to configure the whole apparatus 100.
[0056] According to an embodiment, the apparatus 100 may comprise one or more sensors configured to monitor environmental conditions and adjust spray/dry settings accordingly. The one or more sensors relate to at least one of a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or a water quality determination sensor. For example, the apparatus 100 comprises a water quality determination sensor integrated within the water line or reservoir that supplies liquid to the spraying units 112. The sensor is configured to measure one or more of the following parameters:
a. pH level – to ensure the de-sapping solution or rinse water is within the acceptable acidity/alkalinity range.
b. Electrical Conductivity (EC) or Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) – to detect mineral accumulation or contamination that could affect cleaning efficiency.
c. Turbidity – to assess the cloudiness or particle concentration in reused water, indicating when the water needs to be refreshed.
d. Temperature of the water – especially if it affects sap removal or interacts with disinfectant chemicals.
[0057] These sensors may be connected to a microcontroller or a central processing unit that receives and logs the data in real-time. Based on the threshold values pre-defined in the apparatus 100, alerts can be generated to:
a. Pause spraying operation if water quality drops below minimum threshold
b. Trigger a flush cycle of the recirculation unit
c. Notify the operator via a display or mobile alert
[0058] Therefore, the apparatus 100 ensures that the water used for washing or de-sapping is clean, safe, and effective, especially when operating under reuse mode in remote farms where water is a limited resource.
[0059] According to an embodiment, the apparatus 100 may comprise a logging module configured to record data including fruit weight, processes quantity, and cycle time per batch. The logging module functions as an integrated data acquisition system, capable of capturing key parameters such as the individual or batch-wise weight of fruits or vegetables, total quantity processed over a defined period, and a cycle time per batch, i.e., a duration required to complete the cleaning, drying, and grading operations for each group of products. Such metrics provide valuable insights into productivity, efficiency, and consistency of the apparatus during field use.
[0060] The recorded data may be either stored locally or transmitted to a server via communication network. The recorded data may be displayed by a display unit for real-time monitoring. Further, the apparatus 100 may also be configured to transmit recorded data to the server via a wireless communication network, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or GSM. Any third party may access transmitted data from the server to get insight on the recorded data.
[0061] According to an embodiment, the apparatus 100 further comprises an optional soil-removal module integrated into the conveyor line, comprising rotating abrasive brushes, high-pressure spray nozzles, and sediment drain channels designed to detach and remove soil and field debris from root vegetables. Such soil-removal module primarily addresses post-harvest cleaning challenges specific to root crops like carrots, beets, turmeric, and potatoes.
[0062] According to an embodiment, the apparatus 100 may comprise dual or parallel conveyor tracks with independent fruit holder assemblies and roller profiles, allowing simultaneous or alternate processing of multiple commodity types with minimal setup time. The dual or parallel conveyor may be configured to reduce downtime and supports mixed batch handling by farmer producer organizations (FPOs).
[0063] Figure 6 illustrates a flow chart of a method for post-harvest handling of fruits or vegetables using the portable apparatus 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As depicted in Figure 6, the method 600 includes a series of steps 602 through 610 for post-harvest handling of fruits or vegetables. The details of the method 600 have been explained below in forthcoming paragraphs. The order in which the method steps are described below is not intended to be construed as a limitation, and any number of the described method steps can be combined in any appropriate order to execute the method or an alternative method. The method 600 begins from a start block and starts execution of operations at step 602, as shown in Figure 6.
[0064] At step 602, the method 600 comprises receiving the fruits or vegetables through the inlet chute 104 and guiding them onto a conveyor extending toward an outlet 106. The inlet chute 104 serves as a guided entry point, specifically designed to ensure that the products enter the apparatus 100 manually via any person/ farmer. The flow of the method 600 now proceeds to step 604.
[0065] At step 604, the method 600 comprises cradling the fruits or vegetables on the plurality of fruit holder assemblies 108 mounted on the conveyor. Each fruit holder assembly 108 comprises the set of rollers arranged serially across the width of the conveyor. Each roller 302 of the set of rollers comprising a central saddle formed by a junction of two opposing conical or frustoconical sections. The plurality of fruit holder assemblies 108 are specifically adapted to provide individual, stable support for each piece of the products as it moves through the processing stage. Designed with concave or saddle-shaped rollers or similar supportive structures, each holder gently accommodates the natural shape, size, and orientation of the fruit or vegetable, whether upright, inverted, or lateral, depending on the type of products. The flow of the method 600 now proceeds to step 606.
[0066] At step 606, the method 600 comprises spraying de-sapping solution and/or clean water from the spraying units 112 disposed above and below the conveyor onto the fruits or vegetables placed on the fruit holder assemblies 110. As the products are securely held in the fruit holder assemblies 110, the spraying units 112 direct pressurized jets or mist from both directions to ensure thorough and uniform cleaning of all surfaces. The method step ensures removing sap residues, mud, and field contaminants, helping to improve the appearance, hygiene, and shelf life of the products. The flow of the method 600 now proceeds to step 608.
[0067] At step 608, the method 600 comprises brushing the sprayed fruits or vegetables using the plurality of rotary cleaning units 110 along with spraying the de-sapping solution and/or clean water during the brushing. Each rotary cleaning unit comprising a rotating brush 402 configured to scrub the surface of the fruits or vegetables. Specifically, the brushes gently scrub the outer surface of the products to remove residual sap, dirt, and fungal deposits, while spraying continues simultaneously to aid in loosening contaminants and rinsing debris. Such combined action ensures effective and uniform surface cleaning without damaging the products. The flow of the method 600 now proceeds to step 610.
[0068] At step 610, the method 600 comprises drying the cleaned fruits or vegetables using the drying station 114 comprising a blower or hot-air unit positioned toward the outlet. The blower or hot-air unit directs a controlled stream of air, either ambient or heated, onto the product surfaces to efficiently remove any residual moisture left from the spraying and brushing stages. The drying process not only enhances the visual appeal and readiness for packaging but also reduces the risk of microbial growth or spoilage by eliminating surface dampness. The flow of the method 600 now proceeds to step 612.
[0069] At step 612, the method 600 comprises grading the dried fruits or vegetables using the grading unit 116. The grading unit 116 actuates in a predefined direction based on weight measured for each fruit or vegetable. Thus, the grading method automatically grades the products based on their weight in order to be ready for packing and transporting. The method 600 further comprises drying the cleaned fruits or vegetables within the drying station at a controlled temperature and airflow optimized to prevent surface damage or moisture retention on the fruit or vegetable. The post-harvest handling is carried out on-farm to facilitate prompt de-sapping and cleaning immediately after harvesting.
[0070] The method steps 602 through 612 and other operations disclosed herein are performed by the apparatus 100. While the above-discussed steps in Figure 6 are shown and described in a particular sequence, the steps may occur in variations to the sequence in accordance with various embodiments. Further, a detailed description related to the various steps of Figure 6 is already covered in the description related to Figures 1-5 and is omitted herein for the sake of brevity.
[0071] Finally, the language used in the specification has been principally selected for readability and instructional purposes, and it may not have been selected to delineate or circumscribe the inventive subject matter. It is therefore intended that the scope of the invention be limited not by this detailed description, but rather by any claims that issue on an application based here on. Accordingly, the disclosure of the embodiments of the invention is intended to be illustrative, but not limited, of the scope of the invention, which is set forth in the following claims.
[0072] With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity. While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiment will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Advantages of the present disclosure:
[0073] The apparatus 100 and method 600 provide various advantages over the conventional apparatus. The apparatus 100 allows it to be easily transported and operated directly at the site of harvest, reducing the need for long-distance transport of unprocessed produce. The integration of spraying units, rotary cleaning brushes, and the drying station ensures a comprehensive cleaning cycle, including de-sapping, scrubbing, and moisture removal, which helps maintain the appearance, hygiene, and shelf life of fruits and vegetables. The inclusion of an actuation-based grading unit enables automated, weight-based sorting, increasing operational throughput and consistency. Additionally, the apparatus 100 features a recirculation system for efficient fluid reuse and a logging module for real-time data tracking, making it suitable for smart farming and traceability applications. Overall, the apparatus provides a compact, efficient, and farmer-friendly solution that minimizes post-harvest losses, reduces manual labor, and improves the market readiness of fresh produce.
[0074] In the detailed description of the embodiments of the disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the disclosure may be practised. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.
,CLAIMS:We claim:
1) A portable apparatus (100) for post-harvest handling of fruits or vegetables, the apparatus (100) comprising:
a structural frame (102) supporting one or more components of the apparatus;
an inlet chute (104) configured to receive the fruits or vegetable, and thereby guide the fruits or vegetable onto a conveyor for further processing, wherein the conveyor extends from the inlet chute (104) to an outlet (106);
a plurality of fruit holder assemblies (108) mounted on the conveyor and connected with the inlet chute (104), each fruit holder assembly (108) comprising:
a set of rollers arranged serially across the width of the conveyor, wherein each roller (302) comprises a central saddle formed by a junction of two opposing conical or frustoconical sections;
a plurality of rotary cleaning units (110) positioned towards the outlet (106) of the apparatus (100), wherein each rotary cleaning unit comprises a rotating brush that rotates on its own axis to gently scrub outer surface of the fruits or vegetables and thereby moves the fruits or vegetables towards the outlet (106);
one or more spraying units (112) adapted above and below of the conveyor path and configured to spray de-sapping solution and/or clean water from both top and bottom directions towards the fruits or vegetables placed on the plurality of fruit holder assemblies (108) and the plurality of rotary cleaning units (110);
a drying station (114) comprising a blower or hot-air unit positioned towards end portion of the outlet (106) to dry the de-sapped or cleaned fruits or vegetables discharged from the outlet (106); and
an actuation-based grading unit (116) configured to actuate in pre-defined direction based on weight to automatically grade the dried fruits or vegetables.
2) The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1 further comprises:
a single fluid reservoir connected to a pump for supplying the de-sapping solution and/or the clean water to the one or more spraying units; and
a recirculation duct unit for collecting and returning used liquid to the single fluid reservoir.
3) The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each roller (302) among the set of rollers is adapted to support individual fruit or vegetable in an inverted, upright, or lateral orientation depending on shape and type of product, and
each roller (302) is fixed or rotatable about its axis and is shaped to accommodate the fruits or vegetables of varying size and shape without making any physical damage.
4) The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each roller (302) of the set of rollers are made of Polyamide (PA) Type 6 plastic or any food-grade resilient polymer capable of absorbing minor mechanical shocks.
5) The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein serial and parallel arrangement of the set of rollers across the conveyor defines multiple discrete support lanes for the fruits or vegetables, enabling simultaneous handling of a batch of fruits or vegetables.
6) The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1 further comprises a detachable or foldable chassis integrated with shock-absorbing wheels, allowing the apparatus to be easily towed by a tractor or small vehicle across varied terrain in orchards and farms.
7) The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1 further comprises interchangeable roller assemblies and adjustable chute geometry to allow handling of any one of spherical fruits and elongated produce.
8) The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the set of rollers (302) are mounted on adjustable support allowing flexible height or spacing changes to accommodate different fruit sizes or varieties without requiring changes to the structural frame (102).
9) The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the rotary cleaning unit (110) further comprises a detachable brush head embedded with micro-abrasive bristles or disinfectant coating, the brush head being configured to remove fungal residues, including Sooty Mold, from the outer surface of the fruits or vegetables during rotation.
10) The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1 further comprises a modular attachment interface configured to allow quick replacement of crop-specific components such as the inlet chutes, the plurality of fruit holders, one or more spray nozzles, or roller profiles, to enable processing of multiple crop types including round fruits, elongated fruits, and root vegetables.
11) The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more spraying units (112) are configured with adjustable pressure output, controlled via a manual dial or electronically, allowing optimization of spray force based on product fragility, from gentle misting for soft fruits to high-pressure jets for root crops.
12) The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the drying station (114) comprises non-compulsory heated air knives to accelerate the removal of excess surface moisture after washing.
13) The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1 further comprises one or more sensors configured to monitor environmental conditions and adjust spray/dry settings accordingly, wherein the one or more sensors relate to at least one of a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or a water quality determination sensor.
14) The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1 further comprises a logging module configured to record data including fruit weight, processes quantity, and cycle time per batch, wherein the recorded data is either stored locally or transmitted to a server via communication network.
15) The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the actuation-based grading unit (116) comprises:
a weight sensing module (502) configured to measure the weight of each dried fruit or vegetable placed on a tiltable or pivotable grading head (510);
a controlling unit operatively connected to the weight sensing module (502), wherein the controlling unit being configured to compare the measured weight with a set of predefined threshold weight values; and
an actuation mechanism comprising a servo motor or stepper motor (506) operatively coupled to the tiltable or pivotable grading head (510),
wherein the grading head is configured to bend or tilt toward a corresponding collection bucket based on control signals received from the controlling unit in response to a result of comparison between the measured weight with the set of predefined threshold weight values.
16) The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 15, wherein the actuation-based grading unit (116) includes a return-to-neutral mechanism that repositions the tiltable or pivotable grading head to a default position after each sorting cycle.
17) The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the apparatus (100) is energized by a power unit, the power unit being selected from a group consisting of a dynamo, a battery pack, a solar panel, a grid-connected electric supply, and a fuel-powered generator, thereby enabling operation of the post-harvest apparatus in both remote and on-farm locations.
18) A method (600) for post-harvest handling of fruits or vegetables using a portable apparatus (100), the method (600) comprising the steps of:
receiving (602) the fruits or vegetables through an inlet chute (104) and guiding them onto a conveyor extending toward an outlet (106);
cradling (604) the fruits or vegetables on a plurality of fruit holder assemblies (108) mounted on the conveyor, wherein each fruit holder assembly (108) comprises a set of rollers arranged serially across the width of the conveyor, each roller (302) of the set of rollers comprising a central saddle formed by a junction of two opposing conical or frustoconical sections;
spraying (606) de-sapping solution and/or clean water from one or more spraying units (112) disposed above and below the conveyor onto the fruits or vegetables placed on the fruit holder assemblies (110);
brushing (608) the sprayed fruits or vegetables using a plurality of rotary cleaning units (110) along with spraying the de-sapping solution and/or clean water during the brushing, each rotary cleaning unit comprising a rotating brush configured to scrub the surface of the fruits or vegetables;
drying (610) the cleaned fruits or vegetables using a drying station (114) comprising a blower or hot-air unit positioned toward the outlet; and
grading (612) the dried fruits or vegetables using an actuation-based grading unit (116), wherein the grading unit actuates in a predefined direction based on weight measured for each fruit or vegetable.
19) The method (600) as claimed in claim 18, wherein the post-harvest handling is carried out on-farm to facilitate prompt de-sapping and cleaning immediately after harvesting.
20) The method (600) as claimed in claim 18, wherein drying the cleaned fruits or vegetables within the drying station at a controlled temperature and airflow optimized to prevent surface damage or moisture retention on the fruit or vegetable.