Automation in carrot seed purification: integration of mechanical and electronic technologies

Abstract

In this research, an innovative mechanical- electronic device has been developed for the efficient

purification of carrots seeds, a critical process in agricultural production due to its impact on the quality and yield of future crops. The device uses mechanical and electronic principles to effectively separate impurities and unwanted seeds from carrots. Through detection and classification technologies together with mechanical elements of transport and separation, the quality of the resulting seeds is sought to improve, ensuring their purity. This development represents a significant advance in the automation of agricultural production, enabling farmers to benefit from higher quality seeds and higher productivity. This project shows how the integration of mechanical and electronic technologies can address the challenges in food production. In addition, the carrot seed cleaning machine offers notable advantages in reducing the workload to obtain seed-fit seeds, improving the efficiency and quality of production. The inclusion of sensors in seed selection is crucial, enabling accurate and efficient detection that supports informed seed classification decisions, improving their quality. The Atmega328 microcontroller is a good choice due to its robust and versatile capabilities for controlling trench engines. The machine stands out for its innovation and its ability to produce high-quality seeds. However, emphasis is placed on the importance of regular maintenance and proper calibration for optimal performance, including constant review of mechanical components and monitoring of electrical and electronic components. In addition, an innovative prototype of mechanical-electronic device for the efficient purification of carrots seeds was designed and constructed. The prototype, built with materials such as MDF and double-sided acrylic, uses modified servomotors as engines, incorporating control systems and released internal brakes. Key components, such as the engine ignition system, the injection system and the mixing system, perform critical functions for achieving efficient and high-quality seed cleaning. The comparative evaluation phase demonstrates that the manual cleaning of 1 kg of seeds takes 1 hour and 30 minutes, while with the machine it is carried out in only 10 minutes, which translates into a significant improvement in efficiency and cost. Annual production costs show a noticeable economic improvement when using the machine compared to manual work. This prototype not only stands out for its efficiency and quality in seed production, but also for its potential impact on the agricultural economy.