ADVANCING CASHEW NUT SHELLING TECHNOLOGY: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF EXISTING METHODS AND THE POTENTIAL OF SMART INNOVATIONS

Abstract

Shelling refers to the process of extracting edible cashew kernels from pre-conditioned or raw cashew nuts. The cashew nut is often described as a ‘poor man’s crop but a rich man’s food’, highlighting its importance as a significant cash crop with substantial economic value in global markets. In the northeastern states of India, traditional manual shelling methods, such as hand-beating using small hand tools, remain prevalent. However, female workers involved in these processes face numerous occupational hazards, including physiological and musculoskeletal strain, as well as injuries such as finger wounds from direct exposure to cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL), which can lead to skin blistering. Despite the advancements in mechanized shelling, existing cashew nut shelling machines exhibit several limitations. These include inconsistent shelling efficiency, high kernel breakage rates, limited adaptability to variations in nut sizes, and the potential for worker exposure to CNSL. A thorough review of the literature has been conducted to systematically classify and analyze available information, identifying critical engineering principles and techniques necessary for improving the shelling process. Several factors such as machine parameters (e.g., operating speed, cutting force, and impact velocity) and cashew nut characteristics (e.g., nut orientation, heat treatment duration, moisture content, and size) significantly influence shelling performance. The integration of smart technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled sensors, offers the potential for real-time monitoring and adaptive control of shelling parameters. This will improve precision, reduce kernel damage, and minimize direct human contact with pre-conditioned cashew nuts. This study proposes the development of a smart cashew nut shelling machine designed to address critical gaps in existing designs. The proposed solution aims to offer a scalable and efficient alternative for smallholder farmers, promoting both sustainability and worker safety.