Desarrollo de una incubadora automatizada que potencie el crecimiento de Lactuca Sativa (lechuga tipo iceberg) mediante un sistema de control de orientación e intensidad lumínica de lámparas UV

Abstract

The present project focused on the design and construction of an automated incubator for cultivating Lactuca sativa in a controlled environment. The primary objective was to optimize plant growth through automated monitoring of environmental factors such as substrate moisture, lighting, and internal microclimate conditions. The prototype structure was built using carbon steel coated with an anticorrosive material, ensuring mechanical strength, durability under humid conditions, and protection of electronic components. The design enables stable internal conditions, safeguards integrated systems, and facilitates sowing, maintenance, and harvesting tasks. The lighting system consists of full-spectrum LED strips that provide the luminous energy required for the photosynthetic process. These luminaires are automatically controlled to regulate light exposure periods, ensuring optimal growth conditions while preventing deficiencies or excess radiation. The automated irrigation system uses sensors to monitor substrate moisture and activates water supply when levels fall below a predefined threshold. This procedure ensures uniform hydration, reduces water stress, and improves water-use efficiency. The control system is based on the Arduino platform, which processes signals from sensors and executes actions through system actuators, allowing stable environmental conditions to be maintained within the cultivation chamber.