KUNJETTAN’S DEVICE TO CLIMB COCONUT TREES EASILY
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| Kunjettan, Chemberi, Kannur |
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A.J.Joseph, alias Kunjettan, Chemberi, Kannur, who 22 years ago invented the mechanical device to climb coconut trees easily, has since then devised more innovations useful to the farmers.
Construction of his climbing device is simple. 2 pedal units, welded together 6 inches apart, have both foot rest and hand rest. Joining both the units and going round the tree are wire ropes. Rubber sheets act as grips to hold the trees tightly.
The operation too is simple. When the user presses one pedeal with the foot, the wire rope grips the tree. As one eases the foot, the wire rope loosens. At that time, by lifting that unit, it can be placed at a higher position. Next the other pedel is loosened and that unit is raised. By this method, the climber can reach the top within seconds. Climbing down is a similar process.
According to Kunjettan, even women are climbing trees using his device. The chances of accident are remote, he claims, as both wire ropes are made of 19 strands, and each strand is capable of carrying 9 kg.
A modified version of this, developed by his son Francis, is used for plucking pepper. The only difference is the iron ring at the base of the pedel units, intended to prevent slipping.
His arecanut dehusking device is the best in its category. A trained person can complete 23 arecanuts per minute using this device, which is yet to be commercially marketed. Another of his innovation is the trap to catch mosquitos and other flying insects. Rubber tapping knife for effortless tapping, and belt bucket for easy collection of latex are further expressions of his innovation.
Courtesy: Staff Reporter (text), T.Pradeep Kumar (photo), Karshakashri, March 1999
Contributed by: Administrator
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