Article Details
Solar-Powered Crop Drying with Automated Temperature and Humidity Control: A Comprehensive Analysis
Author(s)
Saranya C, Shreyas N, Vishnu Kant Kaushik, Subham Saha, Sudarshan M
Abstract
This article presents the conceptualization and development of an automatic temperature and humidity-controlled solar-powered crop drying system based on an Arduino Uno microcontroller [1], [2]. The system uses solar energy for power and employs sensors and actuators in combination to provide the best drying conditions in a controlled atmosphere. The main aim is to improve the quality and uniformity of stored agricultural products by optimized drying. The article features a critical overview of existing literature on solar drying of crops, a step- by-step explanation of the proposed model, design parameters, and comparative analysis with other conventional drying processes. Emphasis is given to energy efficiency, operational viability, and cost-effectiveness. The system shows the potential of large-scale solar drying to minimize post-harvest losses with the benefits of reduced drying times, improved product quality, and lower operating expenses as compared to open-air or fuel-based drying.