ABSTRACT

This study proposes automating an air conditioning system for drying and storing agricultural products. The main objective is to precisely control key parameters of the air, namely temperature, relative humidity, and air velocity, to optimize the drying process. The framework required for constructing and operating the automated air conditioner is explained in detail. Specifically, we describe the conditioning unit, the automation hardware, the control strategies employed to regulate temperature, relative humidity, and air velocity, and discuss the safety measures and human-machine interfaces of the system. Experimental validation of the proposed system is presented, along with results and discussions demonstrating its successful control of drying air parameters across a wide range of desired conditions.

control; temperature; relative humidity; air velocity; post-harvest