3.2 Coconut Husking Machine
Another twin-blade tool, which appeared to be better than that of Waters, was of the tool developed by Titmas and Hickish which is called the Coconut Husking Machine [17]. This was a tool mounted on a wooden platform, and stood upright when placed on the floor. Coconut was held by hand and impaled on the stationary tool. The downwards action of its foot lever each time caused the separation of one sector of the husk. Repetition of these operations to three or four times caused complete removal of the husk. Re-setting of its movable blade on to the stationary blade, to keep them in the juxtaposed upright position, was achieved with the aid of a tension spring of high spring constant. Slipping of the foot from the pedal during downwards action would be causing a quick return of the pedal, and any part of the leg or body coming in the way of its path is bound to get an impact, which may sometimes be a reason for impending injury. Moreover, depressing of the pedal in the standing posture of the operator and with one foot, in coconut husking is not that advantageous, as this action destabilizes the operator. These disadvantages might have prevented the acceptance of this tool.