Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of automation and machinery, and in particular, relates to a feeding assembly to automatically grab, feed and crush sugarcane sticks to produce juice without requiring human intervention.

BACKGROUND
[0002] Background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present disclosure. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed disclosure, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
[0003] Traditional methods of sugarcane juice extraction heavily rely on manual or semi-automatic machines for crushing sugarcane sticks to extract juice. These machines typically necessitate human intervention to feed the sugarcane into crushers, where it is manually grabbed and pushed by hand.
[0004] Manual sugarcane crushers involve direct human operation, where operators feed sugarcane sticks into the crushing unit. This process requires physical effort to ensure proper insertion and effective juice extraction. Semi-automatic machines offer partial automation but still require human handling to position and feed sugarcane into the machine.
[0005] Despite their utility, manual and semi-automatic sugarcane crushers present several challenges. They are labor-intensive, relying on continuous human effort to maintain operation and also poses significant risk to the operator. This manual feeding can lead to inconsistencies in feeding rates and juice extraction efficiency, influenced by operator technique and fatigue. Moreover, these machines depend on skilled personnel for effective operation, impacting productivity and product quality consistency. Drawback of existing machines lies in their dependency on human intervention for feeding sugarcane into crushers. This dependency limits operational efficiency and introduces variability in juice extraction rates and quality.
[0006] Therefore, there is a need for an automated solution that addresses these drawbacks by providing an efficient and reliable apparatus to enhance efficiency, reduce labor costs, and improve productivity in sugarcane juice extraction operations.

OBJECTS OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0007] Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment herein satisfies are as listed herein below.
[0008] The present disclosure provides a feeding assembly that automates process of grabbing, feeding and crushing sugarcane sticks, thereby eliminating the need for continuous human intervention.
[0009] The present disclosure provides a feeding assembly that improves operational efficiency by consistently feeding sugarcane into crushers without variations caused by human factors.
[0010] The present disclosure provides a feeding assembly that enhances productivity by reducing downtime associated with manual feeding and handling in traditional sugarcane crushing methods.
[0011] The present disclosure provides a feeding assembly that ensures uniformity in juice extraction rates and quality by implementing precise and controlled grabbing, feeding and crushing mechanisms.
[0012] The present disclosure provides a feeding assembly that reduces labor costs associated with manual operation, thereby offering a cost-effective solution for sugarcane juice extraction.
[0013] The present disclosure provides a feeding assembly that accommodates varying shapes and sizes of sugarcane sticks automatically, eliminating the need for manual intervention to adjust for different types of sugarcane.

SUMMARY
[0014] Aspects of present disclosure relates to the field of automation and machinery, and in particular, relates to a feeding assembly to automatically grab, feed and crush sugarcane sticks to produce juice without requiring human intervention, and automation of the grabbing, feeding and crushing processes, eliminating need for continuous human intervention and improving operational efficiency.
[0015] An aspect of present disclosure relates to an automated feeder assembly for sugarcane juice extraction, including a first set of rollers configured to grip and feed sugarcane sticks into a second set of rollers, that further crush the sugarcane sticks to extract juice. This feeder assembly mimics human hand processes, autonomously adjusting grip and pressure to handle varying thickness and hardness of sugarcane sticks. Additionally, a control unit coupled with a driving unit, activates the rollers upon receiving a signal, ensuring precise and controlled operation.
[0016] In an aspect, the feeder assembly consistently feeds sugarcane into crushers, enhancing productivity by reducing downtime associated with manual feeding, and ensures uniformity in juice extraction rates and quality through its precise mechanisms.
[0017] Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.
[0019] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary block diagram of proposed feeder assembly, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0020] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary view of proposed feeder assembly, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0021] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary view of nozzles attached to feeder assembly, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0022] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary method for operating a feeder assembly, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0023] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
[0024] Embodiments of present disclosure relates to the field of automation and machinery, and in particular, relates to a feeding assembly to automatically grab, feed and crush sugarcane sticks to produce juice without requiring human intervention, and automation of the grabbing, feeding and crushing processes, eliminating need for continuous human intervention and improving operational efficiency. This feeder assembly consistently feeds sugarcane into crushers, enhancing productivity by reducing downtime associated with manual feeding, and ensures uniformity in juice extraction rates and quality through its precise mechanisms.
[0025] An embodiment of the present disclosure pertains to a feeder assembly for sugarcane juice extraction, including a first set of rollers configured to grab and feed sugarcane sticks into a second set of rollers, that further crush the sugarcane sticks to extract juice. This feeder assembly mimics human hand processes, autonomously adjusting grip and pressure to handle varying thickness and hardness of sugarcane sticks. Additionally, a control unit coupled with a driving unit, activates the rollers upon receiving a signal, ensuring precise and controlled operation.
[0026] Referring to FIGs. 1 and 2, a feeder assembly (100) (interchangeably referred to as assembly (100), hereinafter) for feeding and crushing of one or more sugarcane sticks to produce sugarcane juice is disclosed. This feeder assembly (100) can be attached to a machine used for producing sugarcane juice from sugarcane sticks. The feeder assembly (100) includes a first set of rollers (102) and a second set of rollers (104), these first set of rollers (102) ensure that the sugarcane sticks are held firmly as they move through the feeder assembly (100). The second set of rollers (104) is configured for crushing the sugarcane sticks to extract the juice.
[0027] Additionally, the first set of rollers (102) are configured to autonomously adjust their grip on the sugarcane sticks. This adjustment maintains consistent pressure and secure handling of the sugarcane sticks as they are transferred to the second set of rollers (104) for crushing. This autonomous adjustment is essential for ensuring efficient and effective juice extraction.
[0028] In an embodiment, the first set of rollers (102) is configured to handle sugarcane sticks of varying thickness and hardness by applying a pre-defined press angle and force, to replicate the way human hands grip and feed sugarcane sticks. This allows the first set of rollers (102) to accommodate different types of sugarcane sticks, ensuring that the sugarcane sticks are securely gripped regardless of their physical characteristics. The ability to receive sugarcane sticks of various thicknesses and hardness levels is essential for maintaining consistent feeding and processing of the sugarcane sticks. Additionally, each first set of roller (102) has a distinct profile that enhances their ability to grab and hold the sugarcane sticks effectively. The distinct profiles of the first set of rollers (102) enable them to grip the sugarcane sticks firmly, ensuring they are properly positioned for next stage of processing.
[0029] Additionally, the first set of rollers (102) is configured to perform specific functions. At least one roller (102-1) is configured to securely grab the sugarcane sticks the sugarcane sticks. This secure grip is maintained regardless of size of the sugarcane stick, ensuring that the sugarcane sticks does not slip or move out of place during crushing process. This grabbing action ensures that the sugarcane sticks are held firmly in place. Another roller (102-2) is configured to push the sugarcane sticks forward. This pushing action facilitates secure transfer of the sugarcane sticks to the second set of rollers (104) for further processing. This coordinated action of grabbing and pushing by the first set of rollers ensures that the sugarcane sticks are consistently and securely handled, optimizing efficiency of the feeder assembly and the juice extraction process.
[0030] In an embodiment, the second set of rollers (104) are positioned beneath the first set of rollers (102), and configured to crush the sugarcane sticks fed to them by the first set of rollers (102) to produce sugarcane juice. This crushing action breaks down sugarcane sticks fibers, facilitating release of juice trapped within the sugarcane sticks. These second set of rollers (104-1, 104-2, 104-3, 104-4) are strategically positioned apart from each other at a pre-defined distance, and this spacing is calibrated to optimize efficiency of juice extraction process. By ensuring that sugarcane sticks pass through a series of rollers spaced at specific distances, the feeder assembly (100) can apply controlled pressure evenly across the sugarcane sticks, maximizing yield of extracted juice.
[0031] Further, each roller (104-1, 104-2, 104-3, 104-4) is configured with a distinct profile. This profile enhances juice extraction capabilities of the feeder assembly. For instance, these profiles may include grooves, indentations, or textured surfaces to grip the sugarcane effectively and press it against the adjacent rollers, effectively squeezing out the juice from the sugarcane sticks.
[0032] In an exemplary embodiment, by incorporating rollers (102, 104) with unique profiles, the feeder assembly (100) ensures that sugarcane sticks undergoes thorough and efficient processing. As the sugarcane sticks move through the second set of rollers, the combination of strategic spacing and distinct profiles works synergistically to maximize the extraction of sugarcane juice, enhancing productivity of the juice extraction process.
[0033] In an embodiment, the feeder assembly further includes a control unit (112) operatively coupled to a driving unit (114), and the driving unit (114) is operatively coupled to the first set of rollers (102) and the second set of rollers (104). This driving unit (114) is configured for powering both the first set of rollers (102) and the second set of rollers (104).
[0034] When the control unit (112) receives a signal, it activates the driving unit (114), the signal is received upon initiation of the feeder assembly or the machine where the feeder assembly is attached. Upon activation, the driving unit (114) begins to rotate the first set of rollers (102) and the second set of rollers (104). This rotational movement drives the process of crushing the sugarcane sticks fed into the feeder assembly, thereby initiating extraction of sugarcane juice.
[0035] The synchronization between the control unit (112), driving unit (114), and the rollers (102, 104) ensures smooth and efficient operation of the feeder assembly (100). By receiving and executing commands, the control unit (112) effectively manages the sequence and timing of roller rotation, optimizing extraction process for maximum productivity and juice yield. This integrated control and driving system automates the sugarcane juice extraction process. This allows for precise control over operational phases of the feeder assembly (100), ensuring that the sugarcane sticks is effectively processed to produce high-quality juice according to predefined operational parameters.
[0036] Referring to FIG. 3, the feeder assembly (100) includes a set of nozzles (118) strategically positioned and configured to sprinkle water inside the feeder assembly (100) to wash off the first set of rollers (102), the second set of rollers (104), and internal areas of the feeder assembly (100). The positioning of these nozzles (118) is exemplary and can be adjusted as needed, and the size and type of nozzles can also be modified. These set of nozzles (118) may be triggered by the control unit (112) to sprinkle water one or more times per day for a predefined interval. The frequency and duration of this water spraying can be pre-set within the control unit's programming, ensuring consistent cleanliness and hygiene within the assembly. By rinsing the rollers and internal components, this automated cleaning mechanism helps prevent residue buildup that could potentially affect the quality of the sugarcane juice and the operational integrity of the machinery over time. This supports efficient maintenance practices, contributing to reliability and longevity of the feeder assembly (100) in its role of processing sugarcane and extracting juice effectively.
[0037] Referring to FIG. 4, a method (400) for operating a feeder assembly (100) for feeding and crushing of sugarcane sticks to produce sugarcane juice is disclosed. At block (402) the method (400) includes receiving sugarcane sticks inside the feeder assembly (102).
[0038] At block (404), the method (400) includes gripping and feeding the received sugarcane sticks by a first set of rollers (102).
[0039] At block (406), the method (400) includes feeding the gripped sugarcane sticks from the first set of rollers (102) to a second set of rollers (104). The first set of rollers (102) is adapted to mimic human hand processes of feeding sugarcane sticks into the second set of rollers (104). These second set of rollers (104) is strategically positioned apart from each other at a predefined distance to maximize juice extraction. These first set of rollers (102) grip the sugarcane sticks due to distinct profiles on each roller (102), with at least one of the first set of rollers (102) configured to grab the sugarcane sticks while at least one of the first set of rollers is configured to push the sugarcane sticks for secure transfer to the second set of rollers (104).
[0040] At block (408), the method (400) includes crushing the sugarcane sticks with the second set of rollers (104) to produce the juice.
[0041] Further, the method (400) include the the step of controlling the operation of the first set of rollers (102) and the second set of rollers (104) by a control unit (112). The control unit (112) operatively coupled to a driving unit (114), and it activates the driving unit (114) upon receipt of a signal to initiate the gripping, feeding and crushing processes.
[0042] Thus, the proposed feeder assembly (100) improves operational efficiency by eliminating the need for continuous human intervention, ensuring consistent feeding and crushing. This enhances productivity by reducing downtime associated with manual handling and accommodates varying sugarcane sizes and shapes automatically. Further, the feeder assembly (100) ensures uniform juice extraction rates and quality through precise control mechanisms, while also reducing labor costs and offering a cost-effective solution for juice extraction.
[0043] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the disclosure, other and further embodiments of the disclosure may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope of the disclosure is determined by the claims that follow. The disclosure is not limited to the described embodiments, versions or examples, which are included to enable those having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the disclosure when combined with information and knowledge available to the those having ordinary skill in the art.

ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[0044] The present disclosure provides a feeding assembly that automates the process of grabbing, feeding and crushing sugarcane sticks, thereby eliminating the need for continuous human intervention.
[0045] The present disclosure provides a feeding assembly that improves operational efficiency by consistently feeding sugarcane into crushers without variations caused by human factors.
[0046] The present disclosure provides a feeding assembly that enhances productivity by reducing downtime associated with manual feeding and handling in traditional sugarcane crushing methods.
[0047] The present disclosure provides a feeding assembly that ensures uniformity in juice extraction rates and quality by implementing precise and controlled grabbing and crushing mechanisms.
[0048] The present disclosure provides a feeding assembly that reduces labor costs associated with manual operation, thereby offering a cost-effective solution for sugarcane juice extraction.
[0049] The present disclosure provides a feeding assembly that accommodates varying shapes and sizes of sugarcane sticks automatically, eliminating the need for manual intervention to adjust for different types of sugarcane.
[0050] The present disclosure provides a feeding assembly that enhances operational hygiene through automated cleaning mechanisms, thus safeguarding the quality and efficiency of the sugarcane juice extraction process.
, Claims:1. A feeder assembly (100) for feeding and crushing of one or more sugarcane sticks to produce sugarcane juice, the feeder assembly (100) comprising:
a first set of rollers (102) configured to securely grip and feed the one or more sugarcane sticks received inside the feeder assembly (100);
a second set of rollers (104) configured to crush the received one or more sugarcane sticks from the first set of rollers (102), wherein the first set of rollers (102) is adapted to mimic human hand processes of griping and feeding the one or more sugarcane sticks into the second set of rollers (104), and wherein the second set of rollers (104) are strategically positioned apart from each other at a pre-defined distance; and
a control unit (112) operatively coupled to a driving unit (114), wherein the driving unit (114) is operatively coupled to the first set of rollers (102) and the second set of rollers (104), wherein upon receipt of a signal, the control unit (112) activates the driving unit (114), and upon activation, the driving unit (114) rotates the first set of rollers (102) and the second set of rollers (104) to operate, to produce the sugarcane juice.
2. The feeder assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first set of rollers (102) autonomously adjust gripping on the one or more sugarcane sticks to maintain consistent pressure and secured handling of the one or more sugarcane sticks during crushing by the second set of rollers (104).
3. The feeder assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first set of rollers (102) are configured to apply a pre-defined press angle and force to accommodate the one or more sugarcane sticks of various thickness and hardness.
4. The feeder assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first set of rollers grabs the one or more sugarcane sticks due to distinct profiles on each roller, wherein at least one of the first set of rollers is configured to grab the received one or more sugarcane sticks while at least one of the first set of rollers is configured to push the one or more sugarcane sticks, for secure transfer to the second set of rollers.
5. The feeder assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second set of rollers has a distinct profile to maximize juice extraction from the one or more sugarcane sticks.
6. The feeder assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second set of rollers is positioned in a manner that facilitates movement of the crushed part of the received one or more sugarcane sticks towards an outlet.
7. The feeder assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, further comprises a set of nozzles configured to sprinkle water inside the feeder assembly to wash off the first set of rollers and the second set of rollers, wherein the set of nozzles is triggered by the control unit to sprinkle water one or more times per day for a predefined interval.
8. A method (400) for operating a feeder assembly for feeding and crushing of one or more sugarcane sticks to produce sugarcane juice, the method comprising the steps of:
receiving (402) the one or more sugarcane sticks inside the feeder assembly;
gripping and feeding (404) the received one or more sugarcane sticks by a first set of rollers;
feeding (406) the gripped one or more sugarcane sticks from the first set of rollers to a second set of rollers, wherein the first set of rollers is adapted to mimic human hand processes of feeding the one or more sugarcane sticks into the second set of rollers, and wherein the second set of rollers is strategically positioned apart from each other at a predefined distance to maximize juice extraction; and
crushing (408) the one or more sugarcane sticks with the second set of rollers to produce the juice.
9. The method (400) as claimed in claim 11, further comprises the step of controlling the operation of the first set of rollers and the second set of rollers by a control unit operatively coupled to a driving unit, wherein the control unit activates the driving unit upon receipt of a signal to initiate the gripping, feeding and crushing processes.
10. The method (400) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the first set of rollers grip the one or more sugarcane sticks due to distinct profiles on each roller, with at least one of the first set of rollers configured to grab the sugarcane sticks while at least one of the first set of rollers is configured to push the sugarcane sticks for secure transfer to the second set of rollers.