Kannada University has developed a modern machine that separates eggshells automatically. – A small but significant innovation for the local food industry and small-scale producers. According to the student, the machine is connected to a mobile phone and can be easily controlled through a simple interface.
The invention was made by a fourth-year engineering student at the university, who also gave a practical demonstration on campus this week. He said that the machine separates the boiled egg by gently breaking its shell, which produces clean and fully hatched eggs, and reduces the need for human hands. He said, “I have made this machine in such a way that one person can hatch dozens of eggs in a few minutes. It’s connected to my phone. – I can start, close, and monitor it manually.
According to the student, this automated system consists of a balanced procedure that includes the stages of breaking the egg with the proper force, light water pressure and stirring. So that the peel is separated but the egg is not spoiled. Most of the machine parts are local or low-cost, which has been used to balance performance and cost. In early experiments, the machine peeled most eggs evenly, which reduced the rate of egg breakage compared to hand-peeling.
Local cooks, small restaurants, and community food projects typically rely on hand-picking eggs, which is time-consuming and sometimes unhygienic. This new machine can save labor and reduce the time it takes to produce large numbers of eggs for school meal plans, catering, or street food vendors. “If it works well, it will be useful for both restaurants and households that produce eggs in large quantities,” a university professor said after the demonstration.
The teachers of the university appreciated the practical thinking and innovative mind of the student. The head of the engineering department described the invention as the best example of problem-solving by students. “This project shows how technical education can be helpful in solving problems of everyday life. The University also pledged support for further testing and improvement of this prototype.
In addition, the machine can also be beneficial for food safety, as there is less contact of human hands with food during automatic peeling, which reduces the risk of contamination. The student said that the design of the machine has a low-spacing structure especially to facilitate cleaning, and the sanitizing cycle can also be added in future versions.
The inventor also emphasized low cost. “I used locally available parts and kept the design simple so that the cost remains low. It is believed that a local workshop or entrepreneur can produce it and sell it at a lower price in the market. Small businesses can buy it.
However, some challenges remain before mass production. The machine has to be further optimized for compatibility with eggs of different sizes, higher speed, and durability. In addition, continuous use, easy repair, and reliable performance of mobile connectivity also require attention. Students are looking to partner with local entrepreneurs and investors. So that a robust model can be developed and tested in restaurants and catering centres.
Experts welcomed the concept but stressed the need for practical testing. “A robust prototype is the first step, actual testing will show how it performs in practical situations,” said a food processing specialist.
If successful, the project could be part of a wave of new innovations emerging from Afghanistan’s universities that meet public needs through low-cost, locally tailored technology. In recent years, students have developed many successful projects related to water purification, renewable energy, and agricultural equipment. With the help of local industry, NGOs, and university incubators, these ideas can be turned into practical products, creating jobs and a better quality of life.
The inventor is optimistic but realistic. He plans to further refine the machine in the next few months and obtain funding for trial production. “I wish it is useful to the common people – shopkeepers, caterers, and families,” she said. If a small machine can make food safe by saving hours of work, it’s worth the effort.
The university is organizing a public exhibition next month, where the student will present his improved machine and take feedback from local entrepreneurs. According to experts, such opportunities are very important to connect educational projects with the practical world.
At present, this mobile-controlled egg-laying machine is a promising example of how simple engineering and local intelligence can open new avenues of innovation and small business by solving the problems of everyday life.
