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College of Engineering
Chapter I
INTRODUCTION
BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
The management of agricultural waste is a pressing issue globally, with significant implications
for both environmental sustainability and economic viability. Across the agricultural sector,
including fruit production, a considerable amount of waste is generated throughout various
stages of cultivation, harvesting, processing, and consumption (Smith J., 2019). Rambutan
(Nephelium lappaceum), a popular tropical fruit cultivated in Southeast Asia and other tropical
regions, is no exception.
Rambutan fruit is renowned for its sweet and juicy flesh, which is consumed fresh or processed
into various products such as jams, jellies, and canned fruits. However, the seeds of the rambutan
fruit, which constitute a significant portion of its biomass, are often discarded as waste after
consumption. This disposal of rambutan seeds contributes to environmental pollution and
represents a loss of potential resources (Brown, A., & Lee, C. 2022).
Rambutan seeds contain valuable compounds such as fats, proteins, and antioxidants, making
them potentially suitable for various applications, including food, pharmaceuticals, and
cosmetics Ellen (MacArthur Foundation, 2019). However, the utilization of rambutan seeds has
been limited primarily due to the lack of efficient processing methods and technological
interventions.
In recent years, there has been growing interest in developing innovative solutions to address
agricultural waste management challenges, leveraging advancements in technology and
engineering. Automation, control systems, and sensor technologies offer promising opportunities
to optimize processes, improve efficiency, and create value from waste streams (Chen, L., &
Wang, H. 2021).
NUEVA VIZCAYA STATE UNIVERSITY
College of Engineering
The integration of Arduino, an open-source electronics platform known for its flexibility and
accessibility, with agricultural processing equipment presents a novel approach to enhancing
efficiency and sustainability in the management of fruit waste. By leveraging Arduino-based
automation and control systems, it becomes possible to develop custom-designed machinery
tailored to specific waste streams, such as rambutan seeds.
Furthermore, the development of value-added products from agricultural waste, such as
rambutan seeds, aligns with broader sustainability goals, including the circular economy
principles. By transforming waste into valuable resources, farmers, food processors, and other
stakeholders can not only mitigate environmental impact but also create new revenue streams
and economic opportunities (Ellen MacArthur Foundation. 2019).
In light of these considerations, the proposed study seeks to explore the feasibility and efficacy
of utilizing an Arduino-powered rambutan seed dryer and roasting machine as an innovative
solution for fruit waste management. By integrating Arduino technology with a custom-designed
processing machine, the study aims to optimize the drying and roasting process of rambutan
seeds, thereby creating value from what was previously considered waste.
STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
The challenges faced by the agricultural sector, particularly in fruit waste management,
necessitate innovative solutions to enhance productivity and sustainability. These challenges
include inefficient utilization of agricultural byproducts, limited processing infrastructure, and
environmental concerns associated with waste disposal. The drying and processing of rambutan
seeds, a common tropical fruit waste, present significant opportunities for value addition and
waste reduction. However, traditional drying methods lack precision and efficiency, resulting in
uneven drying, nutrient loss, and potential degradation of product quality.
1. How to design and fabricate an Arduino-powered rambutan seed dryer and roasting machine
capable of efficient and precise drying?
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College of Engineering
2. How does the implementation of Arduino technology enhance the performance of the
rambutan seed dryer and roasting machine in terms of drying efficiency and product quality?
3. What are the optimal parameters and settings for the Arduino-powered rambutan seed dryer
and roasting machine to achieve consistent and high-quality results?
4. How to assess and validate the functionality of the Arduino-powered rambutan seed dryer and
roasting machine under laboratory and field conditions?
By addressing these questions, the research aims to develop an innovative solution for fruit waste
management, specifically targeting rambutan seeds, while contributing to the sustainability and
efficiency of agricultural processing practices.
OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY
The main objective of this study is to develop an Arduino-powered dryer and roasting machine
for rambutan seeds to promote sustainable waste management. The specific objectives are:
1. To design and build an Arduino-controlled system for drying and roasting rambutan seeds.
2. To determine the optimal drying and roasting parameters, including temperature, time, and
airflow, to ensure the quality of the roasted seeds.
3. To evaluate the cost-effectiveness and scalability of the developed system for potential
adoption by small-scale farmers and local processors.
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY
1. Economic Empowerment: By transforming rambutan seeds, which are typically considered
waste, into valuable products such as roasted seeds, small-scale farmers can create an additional
source of income. This diversification of products can enhance their financial stability and
reduce reliance on the primary crop yield alone.
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College of Engineering
2. Cost-Effective Technology: The development of a cost-effective, Arduino-powered dryer and
roasting machine makes advanced technology accessible to small-scale farmers. Unlike
expensive industrial machines, this system is designed to be affordable, easy to build, and
maintain, lowering the barrier to entry for farmers who wish to adopt innovative waste
management practices.
3. Resource Efficiency: Utilizing the rambutan seeds, which would otherwise go to waste,
promotes efficient use of agricultural resources. This aligns with sustainable farming practices,
where every part of the crop is utilized, minimizing waste and maximizing output.
4. Environmental Benefits: By converting waste into usable products, the system reduces the
environmental impact of agricultural activities. Decreasing the amount of waste sent to landfills
and reducing the carbon footprint associated with waste disposal contribute to a healthier
environment, which benefits the farming community and the broader ecosystem.
5. Value Addition: The ability to process rambutan seeds into roasted products can lead to value
addition at the farm level. Small-scale farmers can sell these value-added products directly to
consumers or local markets, potentially increasing their profitability compared to selling raw
seeds or other unprocessed produce.
6. Promotion of Local Economies: Empowering small-scale farmers with technology to manage
waste and produce new products stimulates local economies. As farmers generate more income,
they can invest in their farms, employ more labor, and support other local businesses, creating a
positive economic cycle within rural communities.
7. Capacity Building: Through the implementation and use of the Arduino-powered system,
farmers can acquire new skills and knowledge in technology and sustainable practices. This
capacity building is crucial for fostering innovation and resilience in the agricultural sector.
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College of Engineering
8. Food Security: By maximizing the utility of all parts of their crops, farmers can improve food
security within their communities. The roasted rambutan seeds could serve as an additional food
source, contributing to the diversity and availability of food products.
SCOPE AND DELIMITATION
The scope of the study revolves around the design, development, and assessment of an Arduino-
powered rambutan seed dryer and roasting machine, aimed at optimizing the processing of
rambutan seeds into value-added products. This encompasses the conceptualization of the
machine, selection of components, fabrication of the prototype, and programming of the
Arduino-based control system.
Experimental testing involves both laboratory experiments and small-scale field trials to evaluate
the machine's performance in controlled and real-world conditions, focusing on drying
efficiency, product quality, and energy consumption. Additionally, an economic feasibility
analysis is conducted to assess the potential viability of utilizing rambutan seeds as a value-
added product, considering factors such as cost-benefit analysis and market potential. However,
the study is limited to a prototype scale and does not extend to large-scale manufacturing or
deployment. Geographically, the research is focused on rambutan-producing regions in tropical
climates, although the principles and methodologies may have broader applicability. Time
constraints also impact the depth and breadth of the research activities, with certain aspects such
as long-term performance monitoring left for future investigation.
OPERATIONAL DEFINITION OF TERMS
1. Arduino: An open-source electronics platform based on easy-to-use hardware and software,
which is designed for creating digital devices and interactive objects that can sense and control
physical devices. In this study, Arduino is used to control the drying and roasting processes of
rambutan seeds.
2. Rambutan Seed Dryer: A machine specifically designed to remove moisture from rambutan
seeds. The drying process is essential for preventing mold growth and spoilage, making the seeds
suitable for long-term storage and further processing.
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College of Engineering
3. Roasting Machine: A device used to heat rambutan seeds at controlled temperatures. The
roasting process enhances the seeds' flavor and makes them edible, transforming them into a
product that can be consumed as a snack or used in food production.
4. Sustainability: The practice of maintaining processes that do not deplete resources or harm
natural cycles, ensuring long-term ecological balance. In this context, it refers to the efficient use
of rambutan seeds, reducing waste and promoting environmentally friendly practices.
5. Waste Management: The collection, transportation, processing, and disposal of waste
materials in an environmentally responsible manner. This study focuses on managing rambutan
seed waste by converting it into useful products, thereby minimizing environmental impact.
6. Cost-Effectiveness: The measure of how economically viable the Arduino-powered dryer and
roasting machine is. This involves evaluating the initial investment, operational costs, and
potential financial benefits to ensure that the system is affordable and accessible for small-scale
farmers.
7. Value Addition: The process of increasing the economic value of a product by transforming it
into a more valuable form. In this study, value addition refers to converting rambutan seeds into
roasted seeds, thereby creating a new product that can be sold for higher profits.
8. Optimal Parameters: The best conditions or settings for drying and roasting rambutan seeds to
achieve the desired quality and safety. These parameters include temperature, time, and airflow,
which need to be precisely controlled to ensure the best results.
9. Environmental Footprint: The impact of human activities on the environment, measured in
terms of the amount of natural resources consumed and the waste produced. This study aims to
reduce the environmental footprint of rambutan seed disposal by developing a sustainable waste
management solution.
NUEVA VIZCAYA STATE UNIVERSITY
College of Engineering
CHAPTER 3
The management of agricultural waste presents a critical challenge worldwide, with profound
implications for environmental sustainability and economic viability. Among the various
agricultural byproducts, fruit waste constitutes a significant portion due to high consumption and
processing activities. Specifically, rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum), a tropical fruit extensively
grown in Southeast Asia and other tropical regions, generates substantial waste in the form of
seeds. While the juicy flesh of rambutan is highly valued for its taste and nutritional benefits, the
seeds are often discarded, contributing to environmental pollution and representing a loss of
potentially valuable resources.
Rambutan seeds are rich in fats, proteins, and antioxidants, making them suitable for various
applications in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. However, the utilization of
these seeds has been minimal due to the absence of efficient processing methods and
technological interventions. The advent of automation, control systems, and sensor technologies
offers promising opportunities to address these challenges by optimizing processes and creating
value from waste streams.
NUEVA VIZCAYA STATE UNIVERSITY
College of Engineering
Arduino, an open-source electronics platform, is renowned for its flexibility and accessibility,
making it an ideal choice for developing customized solutions in agricultural processing. By
integrating Arduino technology with agricultural machinery, it is possible to enhance the
efficiency and sustainability of waste management practices. This study proposes the
development of an Arduino-powered rambutan seed dryer and roasting machine as an innovative
solution to fruit waste management. The system aims to optimize the drying and roasting
processes, thereby converting rambutan seeds from waste into valuable products.
This research not only seeks to provide a practical solution for rambutan seed waste but also
aligns with broader sustainability goals, including the principles of the circular economy. By
transforming waste into valuable resources, the study aims to empower small-scale farmers,
enhance resource efficiency, and promote environmental sustainability. The following sections
outline the research design, environment, and methodology adopted to achieve these objectives.
RESEARCH DESIGN
The study employs an experimental research design to evaluate the integration of Arduino
technology into a rambutan seed dryer and roasting machine. This design assesses the impact of
Arduino-based control systems on drying efficiency, product quality, and energy consumption.
The research involves developing a detailed blueprint, constructing a prototype with sensors and
an Arduino microcontroller, and conducting trials to determine optimal settings for temperature,
airflow, and time. The machine is tested in both laboratory and field settings to ensure precision
and practicality. Additionally, a cost-benefit analysis evaluates the financial viability, and the
potential for broader adoption among small-scale farmers is investigated. The goal is to
demonstrate that Arduino technology can optimize rambutan seed drying and roasting, offering a
sustainable and economically viable solution for fruit waste management.
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College of Engineering
RESEARCH ENVIRONMENT
The research will be conducted in Barangay Comon, Aritao, Nueva Vizcaya, where agriculture
plays a crucial role in the local economy. This area is selected due to its agricultural prominence
and reliance on crop cultivation for economic and sustenance purposes. Conducting the research
in Barangay Comon aims to address specific challenges in agricultural waste management and
contribute to the enhancement of post-harvest processing practices. The environment offers a
practical setting for testing and validating the Arduino-powered rambutan seed dryer and
roasting machine, with direct implications for local farmers and agricultural sustainability.
RESEARCH METHOD
The research adopts a quantitative approach to evaluate the performance of the Arduino-powered
rambutan seed dryer and roasting machine. This method involves the use of sensors and data
logging tools integrated with the Arduino system to measure and monitor key parameters such as
temperature, humidity, airflow, and drying/roasting time. The machine will be designed and
constructed using Arduino microcontrollers and various sensors. Experimental trials will be
conducted to determine the optimal drying and roasting conditions, with systematic adjustments
to variables like temperature and time. Data on moisture content, nutrient retention, and energy
consumption will be collected and analyzed. The machine's performance will be evaluated in
both laboratory and real-world settings, focusing on energy efficiency and product quality. This
approach ensures robust and practical outcomes, providing insights into optimizing the drying
and roasting processes with Arduino technology.
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College of Engineering
CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK
INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT
Knowledge Requirements: Design:
Electronics and Electrical Conceptual Diagram Design and Fabrication
Engineering System Block Diagram of an Arduino-Powered
Arduino Programming Schematic Diagram Rambutan Seed Dryer
Agricultural Waste Control Block Diagram and Roasting Machine
Management Process Flowchart
Food Processing and Safety Component Layout
Implementation of
Testing: Optimized Control
Software Requirements: Test the functionality of the Algorithms for
Arduino IDE dryer and roasting machine to Temperature and
ensure reliability in drying Airflow Management
and roasting rambutan seeds.
Hardware
Requirements: Assess the effectiveness of Development of a Cost-
Arduino Microcontroller the Arduino control system in Effective and Scalable
(e.g., Arduino Uno or regulating temperature, Solution for Small-Scale
Mega) airflow, and time. Farmers
Temperature Sensors (e.g.,
DHT22) Evaluate the quality of the
Humidity Sensors roasted seeds in terms of
Heating Elements moisture content, nutrient
Fans and Blowers retention, and sensory
Metal Sheets/Stainless Steel properties.
Motors and Bearings
Fasteners (Screws, Bolts,
and Nuts)
Hopper and Perforated
Plates
BLOCK DIAGRAM
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College of Engineering
The Arduino-Powered Rambutan Seed Dryer and Roasting Machine is an innovative solution for
managing fruit waste by converting rambutan seeds into dried and roasted products. The system
is powered by an AC source that drives a motor connected to a blower, which circulates heated
air through both the drying and roasting chambers. A PTC heater provides the necessary heat for
these processes. The drying chamber is designed to remove moisture from the seeds, while the
roasting chamber further processes the seeds by roasting them. At the heart of the system is an
Arduino Mega microcontroller, which manages the entire operation based on inputs from a
temperature sensor. The sensor continuously monitors the internal temperature to ensure optimal
conditions for drying and roasting. Users can control the system via a keypad, allowing them to
set and adjust parameters as needed. This setup not only enhances the efficiency of drying and
roasting rambutan seeds but also provides an effective method for utilizing fruit waste. The
outputs of the machine are dried seeds from the drying chamber and roasted seeds from the
roasting chamber, offering potential for various applications.
CONTROL BLOCK DIAGRAM
NUEVA VIZCAYA STATE UNIVERSITY
College of Engineering
The control system for the Arduino-Powered Rambutan Seed Dryer and Roasting Machine
begins with an AC source that powers the entire setup, including the motor and the PTC heater.
The motor drives a blower that circulates heated air through both the seed drying and roasting
chambers. The PTC heater provides the necessary heat for these processes. In the seed drying
chamber, rambutan seeds are dried and then move to the roasting chamber for further processing.
A temperature sensor continuously monitors the internal temperature of the chambers and sends
this data to the Arduino Mega microcontroller, which serves as the central control unit. The
Arduino Mega processes the sensor data and adjusts the system operations accordingly to
maintain optimal drying and roasting conditions. Users can interact with the system through a
keypad, allowing them to set and adjust parameters as needed. The control system effectively
manages the drying and roasting of rambutan seeds by using an Arduino Mega to process sensor
data and user inputs, ensuring precise and efficient operation. The outputs of the system are dried
seeds and roasted seeds, providing a sustainable method for utilizing rambutan fruit waste.
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College of Engineering
PROCESS FLOW CHART
The Arduino-Powered Rambutan Seed Dryer and Roasting Machine operates through a
structured process to efficiently manage the drying and roasting of rambutan seeds. The process
begins by turning on the system via a switch, activating the entire setup. The Arduino Mega
microcontroller then reads the temperature from a connected sensor and allows the user to input
the desired temperature. This information is displayed on an LCD for real-time monitoring. The
heater, controlled by the Arduino, provides the necessary heat to the seed drying and roasting
chambers. In the drying chamber, the seeds are first dried before being transferred to the roasting
chamber for further processing. The system outputs dried seeds from the drying chamber and
roasted seeds from the roasting chamber. This process flow ensures precise control and efficient
operation, transforming rambutan seeds into valuable products while effectively managing fruit
waste.
SCHEMATIC DIAGRAM
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College of Engineering
The schematic diagram for the Arduino-Powered Rambutan Seed Dryer and Roasting Machine
outlines the interconnections between the various components essential for its operation. At the
core of the system is an AC power source, which supplies electrical power to the entire setup.
This power source is connected to two relay modules: one for controlling the motor and another
for controlling the PTC heater. The motor, when activated by Relay 1, drives the blower, which
is responsible for circulating air through the drying and roasting chambers. The PTC heater,
managed by Relay 2, provides the necessary heat for both drying and roasting processes. Air
heated by the PTC heater is pushed by the blower into the drying chamber, where rambutan
seeds are initially dried, and then into the roasting chamber for further processing. A temperature
sensor placed within these chambers continuously monitors the internal temperatures. This
sensor is connected to the Arduino Mega microcontroller, which serves as the central control unit
for the system. The Arduino Mega receives real-time temperature data from the sensor and
processes it alongside user inputs received through a keypad interface. Based on this data, the
Arduino Mega adjusts the operation of the relays to maintain optimal drying and roasting
conditions, ensuring efficient and precise processing of the rambutan seeds. This setup not only
enhances the utility of rambutan fruit waste but also exemplifies an innovative approach to
sustainable fruit waste management.
DESIGN
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College of Engineering
Bill of Materials
Table 1. Bill of Materials
NUEVA VIZCAYA STATE UNIVERSITY
College of Engineering
Item Materials Description Quantity Unit Unit Total
No. Price
(₱)
(₱)
1. MOTOR Copper core 1 pcs 2500 2500
Motor Heavy
Duty
2. Arduino ATMEGA 1 pcs 1500 1500
MEGA 2560 2560 R3
with LCD i2c motherboard
CH340G with
20x4 LCD
Display
i2cWhite on
Blue
3. Keypad for 4x4 Matrix 1 pcs 60 60
Arduino Membrane
4. PTC with Fan 2 pcs 1000 1000
5. Pump Belt 1 pcs 400 400
6. Galvanized 500 500
Sheet
7. Temperature 1 pcs 150 150
and Humidity
Sensor
8. Stainless pcs 4000 4000
Roaster with
Rotating
9. Motor Speed 1 pcs 500 500
Controller
10. Angle Bar 2 pcs 2000 2000
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11. Tubular 2 pcs 3000 3000
12. Bolts and Yellow zinc 50 pcs sets 50 per 100
Nuts (10 yabe) (set 50
pcs)
13. Bearings 2 pcs 200 200
14. Pump belt Automotive 1 pcs 400 400
Belt
15. Angle bar 2-inch x 2 pcs 1000 2000
1.5mm
16. Tubular 2x3 stainless 2 pcs 1500 3000
steel
rectangular/
tubular 304
1.5 mm
17. Heating pcs 1500 1500
element grills
TOTAL 22,810
