Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of automation and machinery, and in particular, relates to a sugarcane sticks separation apparatus for automatically separating sugarcane sticks with minimal manual 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] Sugarcane juice extraction is a popular process in the beverage industry, particularly in regions where sugarcane is widely cultivated. Traditionally, extracting juice from sugarcane involves manually feeding sugarcane sticks into juicing machines. This manual method is labor-intensive, time-consuming, and prone to inefficiencies such as inconsistent feeding rates and increased downtime due to blockages.
[0004] To address these challenges, automated sugarcane juice machines have been developed. These machines aim to automate the feeding and juicing process, reducing the need for manual labor. However, existing automated systems have several significant drawbacks. Many automated juicing machines are complex and expensive to set up and maintain. The high cost of these machines can be prohibitive, especially for small to medium-sized operations, limiting their widespread adoption.
[0005] Current machines often struggle with maintaining a consistent and sequential feeding of sugarcane sticks into the juicing unit. This inconsistency can lead to blockages and interruptions in the juicing process, reducing overall efficiency and productivity. Existing machines may not offer precise control over the speed and movement of sugarcane sticks from storage to the juicing unit. Without precise control, there is a risk of uneven feeding, which can adversely affect the efficiency of the juice extraction process.
[0006] Many automated systems lack advanced technology to monitor and adjust the feeding process in real-time. This lack of real-time feedback can result in suboptimal performance, increased wear and tear on machinery, and more frequent maintenance requirements. Additionally, hygiene is a significant concern in existing systems, as they can be difficult to clean properly. Residual sugarcane material can harbor bacteria and other contaminants, posing a health risk and potentially affecting the quality and safety of the extracted juice.
[0007] Therefore, there is a need for a solution that addresses these drawbacks by providing an efficient and reliable method for automatically handling, separating, and conveying sugarcane sticks with minimal manual intervention, also ensure proper sanitation.

OBJECTS OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0008] Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment herein satisfies are as listed herein below.
[0009] A general object of the present disclosure is to provide a sugarcane sticks separation apparatus that addresses drawbacks of existing machines.
[0010] An object of the present disclosure is to provide improved operational efficiency by automating handling, separation, and conveying of sugarcane sticks, thereby reducing dependency on manual labor and increasing productivity.
[0011] Another object of the present disclosure is to offer precise control over the feeding process, ensuring consistent and sequential movement of sugarcane sticks from storage to the juicing unit, thereby enhancing the efficiency of the juice extraction process and minimizing downtime.
[0012] Another object of the present disclosure is to integrate advanced technology enabling real-time monitoring and adjustment of operations.
[0013] Another object of the present disclosure is reducing need for extensive manual intervention.

SUMMARY
[0014] Aspects of present disclosure relates to the field of automation and machinery, and in particular, relates to a sugarcane sticks separation apparatus that improves operational efficiency by automating sugarcane stick handling, ensures precise feeding into the juicing unit, enhances hygiene with easy-to-clean components, and reduces operational costs, making it accessible to various enterprises.
[0015] An aspect of present disclosure relates to a sugarcane sticks separation apparatus that automates handling, separation, and conveying of sugarcane sticks, reducing dependency on manual labor and increasing productivity. The apparatus includes a storage unit with compartments for holding sugarcane sticks. Positioned below the storage unit is a hopper unit, aligned to receive sugarcane sticks from the compartments. Both the storage unit and the hopper unit are enclosed within an enclosure. Within this enclosure, a moving-step assembly is attached that sequentially engages and propels sugarcane sticks from the hopper unit towards a crushing vessel.
[0016] In an aspect, a first motor with a sprocket drive system controls the storage unit, dispensing sugarcane sticks into the hopper unit.
[0017] In an aspect, a second motor drives the moving-step assembly to separate the sticks.
[0018] In an aspect, the apparatus further includes a control unit, equipped with sensors on the hopper unit, to detect presence of sugarcane sticks and instruct the apparatus components to operate accordingly.
[0019] 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
[0020] 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.
[0021] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary view of proposed sugarcane sticks separation apparatus, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0022] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary cross-sectional view of proposed sugarcane sticks separation apparatus, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0023] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary front view of proposed sugarcane sticks separation apparatus, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0024] FIG. 4 illustrates a top view of proposed sugarcane sticks separation apparatus, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0025] 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.
[0026] Embodiments of present disclosure relates to field of automation and machinery, and in particular, relates to a sugarcane sticks separation apparatus that improves operational efficiency by automating sugarcane stick handling, and ensures precise feeding into a juicing unit.
[0027] An embodiment of present disclosure relates to a sugarcane sticks separation apparatus that automates handling, separation, and conveying of sugarcane sticks, reducing dependency on manual labor and increasing productivity. The apparatus includes a storage unit with compartments for holding sugarcane sticks. Positioned below the storage unit is a hopper unit, aligned to receive sugarcane sticks from the compartments. Both the storage unit and the hopper unit are enclosed within an enclosure. Within this enclosure, a moving-step assembly is attached that sequentially engages and propels sugarcane sticks from the hopper unit towards a crushing vessel.
[0028] In an embodiment, the apparatus further includes a first motor with a sprocket drive system that controls the storage unit, dispensing sugarcane sticks into the hopper unit.
[0029] In an embodiment, the apparatus further includes a second motor that drives the moving-step assembly to separate the sticks.
[0030] In an embodiment, the apparatus further includes a control unit, equipped with sensors on the hopper unit, to detect presence of sugarcane sticks and instruct the apparatus components to operate accordingly.
[0031] Referring to FIGs. 1 to 4, exemplary views of a sugarcane sticks separation apparatus 100 (interchangeably referred to as apparatus 100, hereinafter) are disclosed, the apparatus 100 can be attached to a machine, producing sugarcane juice. The apparatus 100 includes a storage unit 102 configured to hold and organize sugarcane sticks horizontally before they are processed, and storage unit 102 is rotatable along a central axis (not shown) of the apparatus 100, and the rotation being controlled by a control unit (not shown). The storage unit 102 can be mechanically coupled to a first motor 114-1 to control speed of the storage unit 102, and the first motor 114-1 includes a sprocket drive system 122. For instance, by using the sprocket drive system 122, the apparatus 100 ensures that the sugarcane sticks are dispensed at a controlled rate, preventing jams and ensuring smooth operation. This allows the first motor 114-1 to regulate and control rotational speed of the storage unit 102. By adjusting speed of the storage unit 102, the apparatus 100 can effectively manage feed rate of sugarcane sticks into subsequent processing stages. Also, this ensures that sugarcane sticks are delivered at a consistent rate, thereby enhancing efficiency and productivity of apparatus. In an exemplary embodiment, the motor 114-1 is positioned in such a way as to create additional space within the apparatus 100, as shown in FIG. 2.
[0032] In an exemplary embodiment, the sprocket drive system 122 (i.e. a chain and sprocket mechanism) consists a first sprocket and a second sprocket, which is a toothed wheel that meshes with a chain, and a chain, which transmits rotational motion from one sprocket to another. The first motor 114-1 is connected to the sprocket through a shaft or directly integrated with the sprocket itself. As the motor rotates, it drives the first sprocket, which in turn rotates the chain. The chain, in contact with a second sprocket of different size, transfers this rotational motion to the second sprocket.
[0033] The control unit may be implemented as one or more microprocessors, microcomputers, microcontrollers, edge or fog microcontrollers, digital signal processors, central processing units, logic circuitries, and/or any devices that process data based on operational instructions. Among other capabilities, the control unit may be configured to fetch and execute computer-readable instructions stored in a memory of the apparatus 100. The memory may be configured to store one or more computer-readable instructions or routines in a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, which may be fetched and executed to control operations of various components of the apparatus 100.
[0034] The storage unit 102 includes one or more compartments 104 designed by attaching vertical and horizontal plates or partitions that are strategically placed within the storage unit 102. Each compartment 104 is sized to hold multiple sugarcane sticks, typically between 8 to 10 sticks, although this number is not strictly limited and can vary based on operational needs. These compartments 104 are designed to ensure they can withstand the weight and pressure of the accommodated sugarcane sticks. This storage unit 102 with compartments 104 ensures that the sugarcane sticks are stored in an orderly manner, making it easier for the apparatus to feed them into subsequent units automatically when required. This organized storage helps maintain a steady and controlled flow of sugarcane sticks, thereby improving the efficiency and reliability of the further processing.
[0035] In an embodiment, a hopper unit 106 is positioned below the storage unit 102 and aligned parallel to receive one or more sugarcane sticks from at least one of the compartment 104 of the storage unit 102, upon rotation of the storage unit 102. The hopper unit 106 acts as an intermediary stage in the apparatus, facilitating transfer of sugarcane sticks from the storage unit 102 to the subsequent units. When the storage unit 102 is rotated, the sugarcane sticks from one of the compartments 104 are directed into the hopper unit 106. This alignment ensures a smooth and efficient transfer process, minimizing risk of jamming or damage to the sugarcane sticks. This hopper unit 106 then holds the sugarcane sticks before they are fed into a separation assembly 110 for further processing. By positioning the hopper unit 106 directly below and parallel to the storage unit 102, the apparatus 100 ensures a controlled and continuous flow of sugarcane sticks, thereby enhancing efficiency and reliability of the sugarcane processing operation.
[0036] Additionally, the apparatus 100 includes an enclosure 108 that houses the storage unit 102 and the hopper unit 106. The enclosure 108 can be of a rectangular shape or any other geometrically similar configuration, without limitation. The enclosure 108 is a welded closed structure, providing a robust and secure housing for internal components. The hopper unit 106 is coupled to the enclosure 108 with one or more fasteners, such as bolts, screws, or clamps. This enables easy maintenance, as it allows the storage unit 102 and the hopper unit 106 to be easily opened and accessed by detaching them from the enclosure 108. For instance, use of fasteners for coupling the hopper unit 106 to the enclosure 108 ensures that the hopper unit 106 is securely held in place during operation while also allowing for straightforward disassembly when maintenance or inspection is required. This configuration enhances durability and serviceability of the apparatus, contributing to its efficiency and reliability in processing sugarcane sticks.
[0037] In an embodiment, the separation assembly 110 is securely attached to the enclosure 108. This separation assembly 110 houses a moving-step assembly 112, which is a mechanism designed to facilitate orderly movement of sugarcane sticks from the hopper unit 106 to a vessel, such as a tray used for passing the received sugarcane sticks for further processing. This separation assembly 110 effectively guides and directs one or more sugarcane sticks as they move from the hopper unit 106 towards their destination i.e. the vessel.
[0038] Additionally, the moving-step assembly 112 within the separation assembly 110 is configured to sequentially engage and propel each sugarcane stick from the hopper unit 106 towards the vessel for further crushing. This sequential engagement and propulsion are meticulously controlled by the second motor (114-2) that is operatively coupled to the moving-step assembly 112, which regulates movement speed and timing of the moving-step assembly 112.
[0039] Furthermore, the moving-step assembly 112 consists of a series of steps, which can include five or more, without specific restrictions. Each step is configured to hold one sugarcane stick at a time for propelling towards the vessel for crushing. Further, each step is strategically designed to guide and advance sugarcane sticks in a synchronized manner, with an approximate size, but not limited to 45-50mm to accommodate dimensions of the processed sugarcane sticks. As the second motor 114-2 operates, this drives the moving-step assembly 112, causing each step to sequentially push the sugarcane sticks forward. This controlled movement ensures that the sugarcane sticks are transferred smoothly and efficiently from the hopper unit 106 to the vessel for crushing or further processing. In an exemplary embodiment, configuration of the moving-step assembly 112 within the separation assembly 110 is essential for maintaining a steady flow of sugarcane sticks, thereby optimizing performance and productivity of the apparatus. By carefully controlling the engagement and propulsion of each stick, the apparatus achieves consistent and reliable operation throughout the separation and transfer of sugarcane sticks to the machine for sugarcane juice processing.
[0040] In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus includes more than one motor to independently control the rotation of the storage unit 102 and movement of the moving-step assembly 112. By having separate motors dedicated to these tasks, the apparatus 100 can optimize its operational efficiency and flexibility. For example, the first motor 114-1 can regulate rotational speed of the storage unit 102, ensuring a consistent and controlled supply of sugarcane sticks to the hopper unit 104 and subsequent processing stages. Meanwhile, the second motor 114-2 can precisely control the movement and timing of the moving-step assembly 112 within the separation assembly, facilitating smooth and synchronized advancement of sugarcane sticks towards the crushing or processing vessel.
[0041] In an exemplary embodiment, the control unit of the apparatus 100 is configured to detect presence of sugarcane sticks within the hopper unit 106 using one or more sensors (not shown) integrated into the hopper unit 106. These sensors are strategically positioned to monitor influx of sugarcane sticks into the apparatus. Upon detecting presence of sugarcane sticks, the sensors transmit feedback or signals to the control unit, which further initiates instructions to activate and synchronize operation of the storage unit 102, the separation assembly 110, the first motor 114-1, and the second motor 114-2. Firstly, the control unit that activates the first motor 114-1 for movement of the storage unit (102) to dispense the one or more sugarcane sticks in the hopper unit 106. Further, the control unit coordinates movements of the separation assembly 110 and adjusts speed of the second motor 114-2 based on real-time inputs from the sensors, the control unit facilitates a seamless and continuous flow of sugarcane sticks within the apparatus. This enhances productivity, optimizes resource utilization, and maintains consistent processing quality in sugarcane juice extraction or other processing tasks.
[0042] Furthermore, the apparatus 100 includes a second sensor that is operatively coupled to the storage unit 102. This second sensor is specifically configured to monitor operation of the storage unit 102 in real-time. This gathers essential data such as rotational speed, loading conditions, and any anomalies in operation. The second sensor transmits this collected feedback directly to the control unit of the apparatus. Upon receiving this information, the control unit processes the data and makes necessary adjustments to optimize the speed and movement of the first motor 114-1 that drives the storage unit 102. These adjustments are essential for maintaining optimal performance and efficiency throughout the operation of the apparatus. By continuously monitoring and adjusting the storage unit's operation based on real-time feedback from the second sensor, the apparatus ensures smooth and reliable processing of sugarcane sticks. This integrated monitoring and control system enhances operational stability, reduces downtime due to potential issues, and ultimately improves productivity of the sugarcane stick processing operation.
[0043] Thus, the proposed sugarcane sticks separation apparatus automates handling, separation, and conveying processes, reducing manual labor and increasing productivity. It ensures precise and consistent feeding of sugarcane sticks, enhancing juice extraction efficiency and minimizing downtime. Additionally, the integration of advanced technology allows for real-time monitoring and adjustments, further optimizing operations.
[0044] 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 a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the disclosure when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art

ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[0045] The present disclosure provides a sugarcane sticks separation apparatus that enhances operational efficiency by automating handling, separation, and transportation of sugarcane sticks, thereby reducing reliance on manual labor and increasing productivity.
[0046] The present disclosure provides a sugarcane sticks separation apparatus that offers precise control over feeding process, ensuring consistent and sequential movement of sugarcane sticks to improve the efficiency of the juice extraction process and minimize downtime.
[0047] The present disclosure provides a sugarcane sticks separation apparatus that integrates advanced technology to enable real-time monitoring and adjustment of operations automatically.
[0048] The present disclosure provides a sugarcane sticks separation apparatus to decrease necessity for extensive manual intervention.
, Claims:1. A sugarcane sticks separation apparatus (100) comprising:
a storage unit (102) configured to hold a set of sugarcane sticks within one or more compartments (104);
a hopper unit (106) positioned below the storage unit and aligned parallel to receive one or more sugarcane sticks from at least one of the one or more compartments (104) of the storage unit (102);
an enclosure (108) to accommodate the storage unit (102) and the hopper unit (106);
a separation assembly (110) attached within the enclosure (108), wherein the separation assembly (110) encloses a moving-step assembly (112);
a first motor (114-1) with a sprocket drive system mechanically coupled to the storage unit (102) to control speed of the storage unit (102) and dispense one or more sugarcane sticks from at least one of one or more compartments (104) of the storage unit (102) to the hopper unit (106);
a second motor (114-2) coupled to the moving-step assembly (112) to separate the one or more sugarcane sticks; and
a control unit operatively coupled to the storage unit (102), the separation assembly (110), the first motor (114-1) and the second motor (114-2), wherein the control unit is configured to detect presence of the one or more sugarcane sticks within the hopper unit (106) by one or more sensors attached to the hopper unit (106), and correspondingly instruct any or a combination of the storage unit (102), the separation assembly (110), the first motor (114-1), and the second motor (114-2) to operate.
2. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the hopper unit (106) is coupled to the enclosure (108) with one or more fasteners.
3. The apparatus(100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the enclosure (108) is a welded closed structure.

4. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more sensors are operatively coupled to the hopper unit (106), and configured to monitor presence of the one or more sugarcane sticks in the hopper unit (106) and correspondingly transmits feedback to the control unit that activates the first motor (114-1) for movement of the storage unit (102) to dispense the one or more sugarcane sticks in the hopper unit (106).
5. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the separation assembly (110) is configured to push the one or more sugarcane sticks from the hopper unit (106) to a vessel for crushing.
6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the moving-step assembly (112) of the separation assembly (110) is configured to sequentially engage and propel the one or more sugarcane sticks from the hopper unit (106) towards the vessel for crushing, wherein the sequential engagement and propulsion are controlled by the second motor (114-2).
7. The apparatus as claimed in claim 5, wherein the moving-step assembly (112) comprises a set of steps configured to hold one sugarcane stick at a time for propelling towards the vessel for crushing.