Innovation of fresh fruit bunches (ffb) harvesting tools, using environmentally friendly electronic mechanical system

Abstract

Today, oil palm becomes a prime commodity in Indonesia. The land area where oil palm trees are planted is rapidly developing; it is not only monopolized by state and private plantation companies but also by small holders. One of the main factors which influences its growth and productivity is harvesting factor. To fulfil the need for harvest, it is necessary to have a tool used for a supporting facility in harvesting fresh fruit bunches (FFB) so that it is easier to harvest them; besides that, it also helps solve the health problems and environmentally friendly work safety. Some innovations in tools for harvesting FFB have been carried out even though they have some weaknesses. One of them is the use of burning motor system as the its source of energy while many activists throughout the world are campaigning for the change in lifestyle toward more eco-friendly which teaches people to be aware of their environment in order to decrease the level of pollution and the garbage which is thrown away. Therefore, the researches were performing a renewal innovation to yield a tool of harvesting oil palms which are safer, lighter, easier, affordable, and environmentally friendly.