Manufacturing of the Coffee De-pulper "Camiseta"

Project Summary

Our senior design project focuses on improving the manufacturing process of the camiseta, the drum component of a coffee cherry de-pulper used by Peruvian coffee farmers. Manually creating dimples in the camiseta is time-consuming and inconsistent, affecting coffee bean quality. Our solution enables the efficient and uniform production of dimples – implementing a hydraulic press attachment - using locally available materials and manual operation.

Design Goal

Implement a manufacturing process for the camiseta that allows for the consistent and efficient formation of dimples; while remaining feasible for rural farmers and manufacturers in the Sacred Valley in Peru.

Design Constraints

• Material Availability: Must use locally accessible materials
• Manufacturing Method: Must function without electricity
• Cost: Maximum cost must not exceed $1,000
• Quality: Must have uniform dimples
• Cultural Relevance: Must align with the skills and practices of local farmers and artisans
• Scalability: Process must be replicable and adaptable for wider implementation

Download the project summary (PDF file).