Implementación de un sistema de cultivo automático de microalgas

Abstract

The objective of this graduation thesis Ïmplementation of an automatic microalgae cultivation systemïs to improve the conditions of microalgae cultivation system by implementing a monitoring and control system for the following variables: light, temperature, oxygen, and nutrients for the selected microalgae chlorella sp. The efficiency of the cultivation is sought through sensors connected to the Arduino Mega microcontroller to an acrylic material container with a sample volume of four liters. Additionally, the prototype has an HMI to visualize the sensor readings in real-time. The phases of the device design are detailed, which include the respective calculations for the selection of the sensors and the use of the weighted matrix method for the selection of the different components of the device. The selection is made based on the criteria of open-source embedded systems and the needs of the system. Additionally, the results of the performance tests, the system operation diagrams, the mechanical and electronic plans are detailed. The implemented prototype demonstrated superior performance due to the continuous control of the proposed variables compared to the traditional method of microalgae cultivation. Specifically, a percentage improvement of 20.29 % was achieved, highlighting the significant effectiveness of automation in microalgae growth. This result emphasizes the importance and potential of implementing automated systems in microalgae cultivation. Therefore, it is expected that this work will contribute to the field of Biotechnology, Mechatronics engineering, among others, and jointly have a positive impact on microalgae growth research.