Abstract
This study developed and evaluated a 2-in-1 cassava processor designed to combine grating and pressing operations for small-scale kakanin production. The project was anchored in mechanical engineering, food-processing, ergonomics, appropriate technology, and systems theory. A developmental research design was used, incorporating planning, CAD-based design, fabrication, prototyping, testing, revision, and evaluation. The machine was assessed for workability in grating and pressing and for acceptability in terms of design, usability, convenience, and safety. Thirty kakanin vendors, business owners, and community members from Kidapawan City participated through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a researcher-developed questionnaire validated by three experts, obtaining a mean validation score of 4.06, interpreted as “Highly Valid.” Frequency count and mean were used to analyze the data. Grating performance was classified as “Workable,” with a mean processing time of 2.27 minutes, mean starch output of 180 g, mean pulp output of 620 g, and mean liquid extraction of 202 mL. Pressing performance was classified as “Moderately Workable,” with a mean processing time of 2.71 minutes, mean starch output of 171 g, mean pulp output of 605 g, and mean liquid extraction of 232 mL. Starch adhesion initially affected extrusion and extraction, but water application, a presser plate, and a press cage improved material flow and pressure distribution. The processor was rated “Acceptable” in design, usability, and safety and “Highly Acceptable” in convenience. Further improvements are needed in pressing efficiency, system integration, maintenance access, electrical protection, and continuous-operation safety. The study supports SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, and SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production. Its sustainability impact lies in reducing manual effort and processing time, supporting small-scale food enterprises, promoting practical technological innovation, and encouraging more efficient use of cassava outputs and by-products.