Systematic framework to select the sustainable best design for an automated fertiliser blending system

Abstract

The innovative device to automatically irrigate nutrients and water to the plants without affecting the environment has become increasingly important in sustainable agriculture and food production. This research aims to propose a prototype for a control-based Automated Fertiliser Blending System by investigating a comprehensive conceptual design framework and specific requirements from the market survey in designing the new device. The House of Quality, Morphological Chart, and Pugh tools were adopted to select the best conceptual design among the available design options. The approach of product design selection is based on ranking in engineering characteristics to generate design options. The benchmark design in this study is a timer system with two stock tanks. Conceptual Design 4 was selected as the advanced conceptual design because this system uses a Programmable Logic Controller to control the blending process of fertiliser solutions precisely with minimal nutrient loss and water runoff. A design prototype was developed for Design 4 using SolidWorks by considering all selection parameters of chosen criteria that were analysed based on the HOQ and Pugh methods. Conclusively, the proposed design of the Automated Fertilizer Blending System can provide technological innovation in designing this device. This will assist in coordinating better product development for potential product commercialization toward achieving sustainable and precise agriculture.