Ergonomics Assessment of Pedal Operated Maize Dehuskar-Sheller

Maize Dehusking and Shelling is the process of removal of husk and obtains grains from the maize cob. This process is done either manually or mechanically. There are various methods to complete this processing. To increase output and reduction in grain damage pedal operated maize de-husker sheller was developed. The rate of shelling is 100-120 kg/h. This method is easy and convenient to work. The pedal-operated maize de-husker sheller ergonomically evaluated to find out its suitability for male agricultural workers in terms of physiological cost using K4b² (computerized Ambulatory Metabolic Measurement System) by selecting 10 male agricultural workers on their physical characteristics. The Mean working heart rate, oxygen consumption rate and energy expenditure rate for male agriculture workers were found 139 beats/min, 1408 ml/min and 6.83 kcal/min respectively of all subjects. The operation of pedal operated maize de-husker sheller was found under Moderate heavy work category.