Semi automatic rubber tree tapping machine

Hevea brasiliensis/Rubber tree is considered to be the most predominant plantation crop in Kerala which was found to be the major source of income for the 11.5 lakh planters within Kerala. Due to the availability of natural rubber from foreign countries at cheaper price, the current market price as well as the demand of Indian rubber is decreasing. Unfortunately in addition to low income from rubber, non availability of skilled laborers and the increased labor charges prevent the planters from continuing tapping in their plantations. Even though laborers are available for low cost, they cannot be utilized for this job since it requires good tapping skills and prior experience. This paper discusses a semi automatic rubber tapping machine at an affordable price which can be used by an unskilled labor. This proposed machine is a battery powered tool with a specially designed cutting blade and guide mechanism, supported by a sensory system which assists the operator to perform tapping of required quality and standards on all trees in a plantation. For validating the concept a prototype is being developed and tested.