Diseño y construcción de un sistema automático para controlar el microclima en una cámara de germinación y enraizamiento

Abstract

The objective of this work was to design and build an automated microclimate control system for germination and rooting, which allows reducing raw material losses, generating the appropriate temperature, ventilation and humidity conditions. At present several types of ornamental plant species have to be imported, generating more investment costs to the producer. Specialized bibliographic sources were analyzed establishing the values of the climatic parameters necessary for the germination and rooting of the Cyclamen, Begonia, Poinsettia (Euphorbia Pulcherrima) and Geranium species. An experimental and mechanical design was carried out, starting with the camera modeling, structural analysis. Applying the corresponding regulations and mechanicals principles, the floor heating system was selected by means of electrical resistors, the ventilation system for the correct renewal of the air and a fogging system to maintain the relative humidity of the environment inside the chamber. The climatic variables are controlled by the Raspberry Pi3B+ microcomputer which, through a graphical interface created by programing, interprets the data obtained by the humidity and temperature sensors located inside the chamber and then compares them with the parameters set by the user to finally issue the order to turn the equipment on or off. The tests were carried out for a period of 3 months with 1000 seeds and 1000 cuttings for each species, in normal weather conditions, that is, outside the chamber where an efficiency percentage of 50% to 60% was obtained and inside the automated chamber, it was obtained 85% to 90% of germinated seeds and rooted cuttings, concluding that the project define good results, justifying the investment made. The user manual, maintenance and safety manual were developed, establishing the necessary protocols for the operation of the system. It is recommended to be aware of technical information and new technologies.