Problem Statement Objectives Scope

1.2 Problem Statement

In Malaysia, the fruit grade sorting is based on shape, weight, or size. Fruit sorting is still in the initial stage and most of the sorting process still done manually. Currently, the manual sorting is more popular and cheaper where the process is done by a number of labors. Automatic fruit grading and sorting has not been implemented widely for this type of fruit. The process is time consuming and error prone as human labor efficiency and consistency will decrease with time. To overcome this problem, the Portable Dragon Fruit Grade Sorter is proposed. Grading is done on several of criteria like weight, shape, size and etc [6] . This machine is designed to overcome the human error and reduce labor work in a short time and the design will not be fully automated, but can sort the fruits in a short time with less number of labor works. The main advantages of the present machine is it will facilitate automatic grading and sorting of dragon fruit in a non destructive method. The purposed machine is cheaper compared to other existing machines where robotic arms are used and cost around RM500, 000 per unit depending on its performance.

1.3 Objectives

The objectives of the project that need to be accomplished are: 1 To propose the best design for the Portable Dragon Fruit Grade Sorter Machine in low cost but still effective. 2 To design and assemble the machine parts into one system using the SolidWorks software. 3 To design and develop an adaptor to supply the system from 240Vac to the desired input value for the actuator, motor and sensors. Literature review  Determine the objectives of the project.  Identifying problem and study the system.  Research about the project throughout resources like internet and books. Discussion among team members, supervisor and from experienced person

1.4 Scope

In this project, the scope is based on three main parts. The first scope for this project starts with conducting research on information for example fruit grading and sorting, to get the basic idea to design the sorting machine. The second scope is, after find the best structure design for this project try to assemble the machine parts into one system using SolidWorks software. Then for the last scope, it follows with designing a power supply for the motor, actuator and sensors then simulate the circuit using Proteus‟s Lite software. The power supply is then built and be part of the sorter machine. 1.5 Project Methodology In order to complete this project, a necessary project planning should be arranged. For this project, there are several steps should be taken to achieve the project‟s scope and objectives. Basically, Project Methodology defines the planning process flow and principles that are essentials guide to produce a well planning project. Besides, selected approach or methodology will be described the activities that may do in every stage. The requirements that are requisite in this system will be explained in project requirements and followed with project schedule and milestones. The flow chart that describes the methodology for this project is shown in the flow chart below: Start End Engineering Drawing Design Simulate the circuit using Proteus software Construct the circuit Find the best structure design Assemble the machine parts into one system using SolidWorks software Build the structure design using suitable material Yes Figure 1.3: Project methodology 1 Literature review The first stage for completing the final year project is determining the objectives of the project and identifying the problems for this project and study the system. Besides, doing the research and finds information that related to the project through out resources such as internet, books and etc. By doing this literature review, the high understanding of the project can be achieved Troubleshooting Power supply design Circuit operate correctly? 2 Discussion After gather all the information and identifying the problem, discussion among team members and supervisor is important. In this stage, supervisor will give the explanation and guideline throughout the project. 3 Engineering Drawing Design using SolidWorks. The next step is find the best design for the main structure of the machine and then tries to sketch the design machine. The designs parts including sorting system design, power supply, computer system and etc. Learn about SolidWorks software and assemble the machine parts into one system. 4 Power supply design Find the suitable circuit design for adaptor to supply the system from 240Vac and simulated the design using Proteus‟s Lite software. After the simulation is complete, the circuit for the power supply will be constructing along with the troubleshooting process. 5 Build the machine structure The design parts for the structure are complete and the machine structure needs to be done. Doing some research among team members and supervisor for choosing the best material for the structure. 6 Build the adaptor supply hardware. By completing the simulation on Proteus‟s Lite, all the data and analysis had been retrieved. The circuit is build using printed board. 7 Analyzed the results of simulation and hardware. After complete the hardware, the output will be observed and analyzed so that a comparison can be make to see any differences between the simulation and actual output.

1.6 Thesis Outline