Mechanization of the process
In 1737 Andrew Rodger, a farmer on the estate of Cavers in Roxburghshire, developed a winnowing machine for corn, called a 'Fanner'. These were successful and the family sold them throughout Scotland for many years.
Who invented the rotary winnowing fan?
Winnowing Fan
In order to help separate the chaff (undesired part of grain plant) from the grain (the part you want for food) the Chinese invented a rotary air conditioning fan.
Is a winnowing fan still used today?
A winnowing fan is used to separate the chaff from the grain so that the grain can be cooked and eaten, chaff being indigestible to humans. As an ancient, low tech object, it is invaluable and still used in many countries of the world.
