Rancang Bangun Alat Pengukur Energi Potong Bahan Hasil Pertanian

Abstract

This research aims to design and test a cutting energy measurement device for agricultural products to improve cutting efficiency in postharvest operations. The device was developed using a mechanical pendulum system combined with an Arduino nano based electronic circuit, which convert signals from were selected as test samples: chayote, potato, and carrot, each representing different physical characteristic such as moisture content, hardness, thickness, and diameter. The testing phase included both functional and cutting energy measurements using the device. Results showed that the tool successfully measured cutting energy based on pendulum swing angle variations. Chayote required the least cutting energy due to its higher moisture content and softer texture, while carrot required the highest cutting energy as a result of it’s greater hardness and 5density. In conclusion, the cutting energy measurement device was successfully designed and tested, and it was capable of more efficient agricultural cutting tools. Further research is recommended to incorporate digital sensors and to expand testing to a wider variety of agricultural products.