Republic of the Philippines

DIVISION OF LANAO DEL NORTE

BAROY NORTH DISTRICT
Department of Education
Region X – Northern Mindanao
Lanao del Norte National Comprehensive High School

D.R.A.Y.A : A Drying and Renewable Agricultural Yield

Apparatus

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements in Earth Science

Submitted by:
Eborda, Ramil L.
Paradero, Christine A.
Abella, Xyrell L.

Submitted to:
Stephen V. Tabal
Earth Science Adviser
 ABSTRACT

D.R.A.Y.A is an agricultural apparatus that will assist in solving issues within

agriculture. It is a solution that aims at solving the challenges posed in the area of sustainable
development in the agricultural sector. The making of D.R.A.Y.A processes has characteristics
of modern technologies showing its potential in the shift of conventional practices to new
practices. Such capabilities guarantee that this new technology will be easily tailored to suit
different conditions or environments making it convenient. D.R.A.Y.A targets on performance
optimization but on performance that is accessible and affordable, this makes it able to be used in
many fields. Doing so will enable the farmers to dry their harvested crops using a more usable
and efficient method than what was in place. This apparatus will reduce the workload of the
farmers and guarantee the crops are well dried without damage compared to the traditional
drying technique, the sun drying technique. The DRAYA highlights the need to incorporate
environmental sustainability into routine activities as it provides communities with an effective
framework for enhancing environmental and economic gains over time.
 INTRODUCTION

Agriculture is one of the vital sectors in the Philippines, providing food security
and livelihood to millions of Filipinos. This sector ensures food security, supports rural
development, and supplies vital exports.As of 2020, the Philippines has an estimated 2.4 million
rice farmers and most of them are men (Balita, C. 2024). The Philippines continues to rank as
one of the leading rice producers globally, holding the 8th position after China, Indonesia, India,
and other Southeast Asian countries (Da Press Office 2022). Despite being one of the world's
leading producers of rice, the Philippines still has agricultural problems that need to be
addressed. According to Sanches, F. (2015) as an agricultural nation, the Philippines must make
investments to support equitable growth and create more resilient food and agriculture systems
that can successfully adapt to the effects of climate change. One of the most noticeable problems
that the rice farmers face today is drying the crops they harvested. A lot of farmers are still
relying on the traditional drying method. In the Philippines, traditional drying methods are
commonly used in agriculture and fisheries to preserve products, particularly in rural areas. One
popular technique is sun drying, where farmers and fishers spread harvested grains, crops, or fish
on mats or concrete surfaces under direct sunlight. Sun drying is a traditional and natural method
of food preservation that involves exposing food items, such as fruits, vegetables, meat, and fish,
to direct sunlight to reduce their moisture content (Texas Real Food, n.d.). However, traditional
methods of drying crops, like palay (Oryza sativa) and mung beans (Vigna radiata), and other
crops, as well as fish products like dried fish specifically dried sardine (Sardinella gibbosa) , are
often time-consuming, weather-dependent, and inefficient. Traditional drying times are longer,
which can lead to uneven drying, mold growth, and reduced quality of the final product.

Farmers that continue to employ sun drying face several disadvantages. Rice
growers harvest their crops simultaneously. Leaving them with a large pile of unmilled rice bags.
Farmers struggle to dry all of their newly gathered crops due to the restricted amount of space
available. While the rest of the rice is dried, half of it is still stored in sacks owing to inadequate
room for drying the harvests. Unmilled rice may get contaminated, causing agricultural harm.
Due to a shortage of drying resources, farmers were forced to sell their produced products wet to
large corporations or individual customers (Chupungco, A. 2008). In this case, farmers
frequently lose a significant amount of money because of the price differential between selling
wet harvested crops and selling their own produced rice. According to Hughes and Daglish
(2005), the price difference between dry and wet palay is around 2-5 pesos per kilogram.

Rice is the staple food for about 80 percent of Filipinos, making it the single most
important crop in the country (Cororaton, C. 2004) Beyond its role in daily nutrition, rice holds
cultural significance, symbolizing sustenance and stability. Filipinos also promote the production
of dried fish, a traditional method of preserving fish that enhances its shelf life and flavor. Dried
fish, or "tuyo," is a popular product in many households and markets, as it provides an affordable
and accessible source of protein. Farmers in the Philippines face significant challenges in drying
rice, dried fish, and other crops due to reliance on traditional methods like sun drying. This
method can lead to significant crop losses due to pests and diseases and is slow and labor-
intensive, and requires large areas for drying. Ensuring the efficient drying of rice, as well as
other crops like mung beans, is critical for both food security and the livelihood of millions of
farmers.

Traditional drying methods, commonly used for preserving food products, present
several notable disadvantages. Many farmers have relied on sun drying alongside roadsides, a
method that, while accessible, presents significant safety hazards and often leads to inconsistent
drying due to varying weather conditions.The Department of Public Works and Highways
(DPWH) has recognized these risks, particularly the obstruction of roads and the occurrence of
accidents caused by the roadside drying of palay (Oryza sativa) and other farm produce. Drying
of palay or other produce on national roads, highways is a crime punishable by law. The
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) recently reminded the public that the
practice of drying palay (Oryza sativa) is against the law. The other major issue is inconsistent
quality, as these methods often result in uneven moisture removal, which can affect the texture
and nutritional value of the dried items (Mason et al., 2022). Food products losses during
processing and distribution should be mitigated to maintain the balance between population
expansion and supply of food. Owing to inadequate processing practices and a lack of storage
facilities, the quantity and quality of food products are declining (S. Madhankumar, Muhammad
Ikhsan Taipabu et al., 2023). Fluctuations in temperature and humidity can degrade crop quality,
and the crops are vulnerable to contamination from dirt and insects. As a result, traditional sun
drying often leads to substantial post-harvest losses, particularly for fruits and vegetables. In
today's advanced technology and the growing need for sustainable and cost-effective solutions,
there is an increasing demand for ways that can enhance productivity and reduce post-harvest
losses.

According to Ahmad Fudholi (2020) solar drying is an emerging technology to

preserve a wide range of products from agriculture to animal-based products. Solar drying
provides an alternative to the conventional drying process. In contrast to sun drying, where food
products are being exposed to dry directly under the sun which can contaminate the products
with dirt, solar drying utilizes heat entrapment mechanisms to enhance the moisture removal
process. The proposed dryer utilizes solar energy not only to dry crops and fish faster but also to
incorporate a mechanism that spins the materials, ensuring even drying and better quality of the
end product. The application of a solar dryer converts solar energy using a solar collector unit
into useful thermal energy. Thus, solar dryer systems are capable of increasing the operating
temperature to 50-60 ℃ which results in perfect drying and product quality (Ahmad Fudholi
2020). By harnessing renewable energy, this solution aims to provide farmers and fishermen
with a reliable, low-cost alternative to traditional drying methods, thereby improving their
productivity and income. Solar crop drying offers numerous advantages, making it an
increasingly popular choice for farmers seeking efficient and sustainable drying methods. Solar
crop dryers provide advantages by creating a controlled environment that enhances the quality
of dried products and ensures consistent drying regardless of weather conditions. They allow
farmers to process larger quantities of crops simultaneously while significantly reducing labor
requirements, leading to less manual effort and greater efficiency.

One of the primary benefits is low maintenance, as the process relies solely on
solar radiation as its fuel source. Additionally, solar drying has no negative environmental
impact, ensuring the preservation of ecological balance. The method also yields products of
sensible quality while providing protection from insects, animals, storms, hail, and dust.
Moreover, solar dryers are economical, straightforward to use, and can often be constructed from
locally available materials (Jiter.org). The study will assess the dryer’s performance, cost-
effectiveness, and potential impact on the agricultural and fisheries sectors, with the goal of
contributing to a more sustainable and resilient food production system in the Philippines.

Recent studies highlight the growing demand for sustainable agricultural

practices, which has led to increased interest in solar-powered crop dryers. These systems
harness renewable energy to minimize post-harvest losses and improve the quality of dried crops.
Studies indicate that solar-assisted drying effectively reduces moisture content in grains
compared to traditional drying methods, thus enhancing preservation. The efficiency of solar-
powered dryers is influenced by various design factors, including the configuration of solar
collectors, which directly affect heat retention and airflow dynamics. Effective design is critical
in optimizing the drying process, as crops harvested in their fresh state typically contain high
moisture levels, making drying essential for long-term storage and quality preservation (Klein
Ileleji, 2021). Furthermore, several studies emphasize that solar-powered dryers can significantly
preserve the nutritional and sensory qualities of dried products more effectively than sun drying
methods (Wei Wu et al., 2023). The controlled environments provided by solar dryers mitigate
common issues associated with traditional drying, such as mold growth and nutrient degradation,
thereby enhancing the marketability of dried goods.

METHODOLOGY

I. Research Design

This study utilizes experimental research design to conceptualize, construct, test, and
evaluate a multipurpose solar-powered crop dryer. The expiremental approach is particularly
suited for this research because it emphasizes systematic planning, implementation, and
improvement of a functional prototype while comparing its performance with traditional
methods. This design ensures a thorough exploration of the device’s capabilities, efficiency, and
potential contributions to agricultural and fishing practices. The research is divided into three
interconnected phases, each designed to build upon the previous one, ensuring a logical
progression from conceptualization to analysis.

The first phase involves data gathering and the construction of the prototype, which
serves as the foundation for the study. Data collection focuses on identifying key variables and
parameters relevant to drying processes, such as ideal temperature ranges, humidity control,
energy consumption, and materials typically used in traditional drying methods. This information
helps inform the design of the solar-powered dryer and ensures it is tailored to the specific needs
of drying crops like palay and mung beans, as well as fish like BULAD.

Once the data is gathered, the construction of the prototype begins. The device is
designed to be practical, efficient, and cost-effective, with its structure comprising essential
components such as a wooden base for stability, electrical circuits for power distribution, a solar
panel for renewable energy generation, a solar controller to regulate energy flow, an inverter to
convert energy for usable forms, a battery for energy storage, a nichrome heater for controlled
drying temperatures, a DC motor for powering the spinning mechanism, and a vowl to hold and
spins the crops. Each component is carefully selected and integrated to maximize functionality
and durability. The construction process also involves repeated adjustments and refinements to
ensure the prototype operates efficiently and meets the requirements identified during data
gathering. By the end of this phase, a fully operational solar-powered crop dryer is ready for
testing.

The second phase is dedicated to conducting experiments to evaluate the performance of

the solar-powered dryer compared to traditional sun-drying methods. This phase involves
systematic testing using three materials: palay, mung beans, and dried fish (BULAD). The trials
are designed to measure several dependent variables, including drying time, moisture content
reduction, final product quality, and yield. To maintain consistency and reliability, the testing
environment is controlled by monitoring external conditions such as sunlight intensity,
temperature, and humidity throughout the drying process. Data is gathered at regular intervals to
track the progress of drying for both methods. This phase not only evaluates the performance of
the solar-powered dryer but also establishes a baseline for comparison with traditional drying
methods, ensuring the validity of the results.

The third phase focuses on analyzing and comparing the experimental results to draw
meaningful conclusions about the effectiveness and efficiency of the solar-powered dryer. The
data collected during the experiments is subjected to statistical analysis to identify significant
differences in the drying performance of the two methods. Metrics such as average drying time,
percentage of moisture content reduction, and overall quality of the dried products are compared
between the solar-powered dryer and traditional sun-drying. Detailed observations are also made
regarding the consistency and uniformity of the drying process for each method.

On top of quantitative analysis, qualitative assessments of the dried products, such as

texture, color, and aroma, are conducted to evaluate the quality improvements offered by the
solar-powered dryer. The final analysis synthesizes all findings to highlight the advantages of the
solar dryer in terms of practicality, energy efficiency, and output quality. This phase concludes
by summarizing the findings and forming a basis for recommending the solar-powered dryer as a
sustainable alternative to traditional methods.

By structuring the study into these three phases, the developmental research design
ensures a systematic and detailed evaluation of the multipurpose solar-powered crop dryer. This
comprehensive approach not only validates the functionality and efficiency of the dryer but also
demonstrates its potential to address real-world challenges in agriculture and fishing. The
findings from this study will contribute valuable insights for developing innovative, eco-friendly
technologies in post-harvest management.

II. Procedures

A. Development of the Crop Dryer

This initial stage of the development process is where ideas are translated into tangible
plans and blueprints for the multipurpose solar-powered crop dryer. This phase involves careful
planning, sketching, modeling, and sourcing materials to ensure that every aspect of the
prototype is well thought out before construction begins.

1. Planning and Sketching: The process begins with a thorough brainstorming session
to define the goals, objectives, and specifications for the solar-powered dryer.
During this stage, the general design concept is visualized, and rough sketches are
drawn to outline the structure and key components of the dryer. The sketches
serve as the first step in translating the abstract idea into a more concrete
representation. Considerations are made for the dryer’s size, shape, and
functionality, with a particular focus on ensuring that it can handle various
agricultural products and fish effectively.
2. 3D Modeling in Tinkercad: After the initial sketches, the next step is to create a
digital 3D model of the dryer using Tinkercad, a user-friendly 3D modeling
software. This step is crucial for visualizing the design in three dimensions and
making necessary adjustments before construction. The 3D model allows for
accurate representations of each component, including the solar panel, heater,
motor, battery, controller, and other mechanical parts. By modeling the design in
Tinkercad, the team can easily identify potential issues with the prototype, such as
spacing, alignment, or component interference, and make adjustments early in the
design process.
3. Gathering Materials: Once the design is finalized and the 3D model is reviewed, the
next step is to gather all the necessary materials. These materials are selected
based on the design specifications and the functional requirements of each
component. The materials are sourced from suppliers, ensuring they meet the
necessary quality standards for durability, functionality, and cost-effectiveness.
4. Review and Refinement: Before proceeding with the actual construction, the
conceptual design is reviewed again to ensure that all components are functional,
efficient, and safe for use. Any adjustments or refinements are made to the design
or material selections based on the feedback from the planning and modeling
stages. Once the design is fully approved, the project moves into the prototyping
phase, where the physical construction of the solar-powered crop dryer will begin.
B. Construction of the Crop Dryer

1. Construction of DC Motor

- DC Motor Function: The DC motor serves as the driving force for rotating the drying
platform. This motor is selected for its efficiency, reliability, and ability to provide
constant speed and torque necessary for even spinning of the drying drum. It is powered
by the solar energy system, which charges a battery and is controlled through the solar
controller.

- Coupling the Motor to the Drying Platform: The DC motor is connected to a rotating drying
platform via a shaft system:

- Shaft: A metal shaft is attached to the motor’s output axle. The shaft transfers the rotational
motion from the motor to the spinning drying tray.

- Bearings: The platform or drum is supported by bearings that reduce friction and ensure
smooth, stable rotation during the drying process. The bearings allow the drying tray to
spin with minimal resistance.

- Drying Drum: The drying tray holds the agricultural products or fish to be dried. The tray is
made of a perforated material that allows air to circulate freely while preventing the dried
products from falling through. The rotating movement ensures that the drying materials
are exposed evenly to the heat and airflow generated by the solar-powered system.

- Alignment and Direction: The direction of rotation is important to ensure consistent drying.
The mechanism ensures that the tray spins in one direction, and check valves or guide
rails are used to maintain the materials in place, preventing them from sliding off during
rotation.
- Energy Efficiency Considerations: The DC motor is powered by a solar panel and battery
system, making the mechanism highly energy-efficient. The motor operates primarily on
solar energy, reducing the dependency on external electricity sources. The battery stores
excess energy during sunny periods and provides power during cloudy weather or
nighttime operations.

- Testing and Calibration: Once the mechanism is assembled, extensive testing is conducted to
ensure smooth rotation and effective drying. The motor’s speed and the drying efficiency
are evaluated under various environmental conditions to ensure that the system works
optimally.

DC MOTOR

BEARINGS

The DC motor-based spinning mechanism in the solar-powered crop dryer consists of a

motor, shaft, drying tray, and associated components. The DC motor rotates the drying tray,
ensuring that materials are evenly dried by exposing them to consistent heat. The design is
energy-efficient, with the motor powered by solar energy, and the speed of rotation is adjustable
to suit different drying needs. This mechanism is integral to enhancing the drying process,
improving efficiency, and ensuring that the harvested crops and fish are evenly dried.

2. Solar Panel Mechanism

 The D.R.A.Y.A utilizes a solarpowered system to efficiently dry agricultural products by
converting sunlight into electrical energy. The system is designed to be energyefficient,
environmentally friendly, and selfsustaining. Below is the detailed mechanism for the solar panel
integration:

- Solar Panel Array:

The system is equipped with a 6 by 10 feet solar panel with a total power output of 1000 watts.
This solar panel captures sunlight and converts it into direct current (DC) electricity. The
solar panel is mounted on an adjustable frame to optimize sunlight exposure throughout
the day, ensuring maximum energy generation. The energy generated is directly used to
power the drying system, reducing dependency on external electricity sources.

- Charge Controller:
The energy gathered by the solar panel is sent to a charge controller, which regulates the
amount of energy stored in the battery. The charge controller ensures that the battery is
not overcharged or discharged beyond its safe limits, optimizing the lifespan and
performance of the storage system. This component is crucial for maintaining the balance
between energy generation and usage.

- Battery Storage:
The battery stores the excess energy produced during the day. It allows the system to operate
continuously, even when sunlight is insufficient, such as during cloudy days or at night.
Deepcycle batteries are used to ensure longterm reliability and provide consistent power
to the system when needed.

- Inverter:
Once the energy is stored in the battery, it is sent to an inverter. The inverter converts the DC
electricity from the battery into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is required for
specific components of the system, such as the iron heater.

- Powering the Iron Heater and DC Motor:

The converted AC electricity from the inverter powers the iron heater, which is used for
drying crops such as palay and mung beans or fish like bulad. In addition, DC electricity from
the battery directly powers the DC motor, which drives the rotating drying chamber. The motor’s
rotation ensures that the produce is evenly dried, while the heater provides consistent heat for the
drying process.

6x10 SOLAR PANEL

STANDING FRAME
3. Construction of the Nichrome Heater

The D.R.A.Y.A includes an iron nichrome heater as its primary heat source for the drying
process. The heater is designed to provide adjustable heat levels to suit various crops or products,
ensuring efficient and tailored drying. Below is the process for its construction and functionality:

 Nichrome Wire Heating Element:

- The heating element is constructed using nichrome wire, a material known for its high
electrical resistance and ability to generate heat when electricity flows through it.
- The nichrome wire is carefully coiled and mounted on a heat-resistant base to ensure stability
and safety during operation.

 Insulation and Heat Distribution:

- The heating element is insulated with ceramic or mica sheets to prevent heat loss and ensure
that the heat is evenly distributed across the drying chamber.
- A metallic plate, similar to the soleplate of a clothes iron, is placed over the heating element.
This plate facilitates consistent heat transfer to the products being dried.

 Adjustable Heat Levels:

- The heater includes a temperature control knob with levels ranging from 0 to 5, allowing
users to adjust the heat output based on the drying requirements of specific crops or products.
For instance:

o Level 1–2: Suitable for delicate crops like mung beans.

o Level 3–4: Ideal for mid-range drying requirements like palay.
o Level 5: Used for sturdier products such as fish like bulad.
  Power Supply:

- The heater is powered by the solar panel system through the inverter, which converts DC
electricity to AC electricity required by the heater.
- A safety fuse and thermal cutoff are incorporated to prevent overheating and ensure safe
operation.
 Integration with the Drying System:

- The iron nichrome heater is securely installed within the drying chamber of the apparatus. Its
heat is directed towards the rotating crops or products to ensure uniform drying.
- The adjustable temperature feature ensures that the drying process can be customized to
prevent over-drying or damage to sensitive products.

C NICHROME HEATER
DRYING CHAMBER

ADJUSTABLE SWITCH

III. Initial Setup and Testing

1. Initial Setup and Testing in Controlled Conditions

To ensure the D.R.A.Y.A apparatus operates efficiently and meets the intended
functionality, an initial setup and testing phase was conducted under controlled conditions. This
process involved several steps to verify the performance of each component and the overall
system:
  Component Installation:

- The solar panel array was securely mounted in an open area with maximum sun exposure,
and its tilt angle was adjusted to optimize sunlight capture based on the testing location.
- The iron nichrome heater, DC motor, battery, and inverter were installed within the
apparatus, with all components interconnected through insulated wiring.

 Power Flow Verification:

- The energy flow from the solar panel to the charge controller, battery, and inverter was tested
to ensure proper energy transfer.
- The DC motor and iron nichrome heater were connected to verify that they received sufficient
power for operation.

 Controlled Testing Environment:

- The dryer was tested indoors under controlled environmental conditions to simulate different
scenarios:
- Temperature Variations: To ensure the heater’s adjustable levels (0–5) functioned
effectively for various drying requirements.
- Humidity Levels: To evaluate drying efficiency under different moisture conditions.

 Testing Procedure:

- The iron nichrome heater was calibrated to different temperature levels, and the drying time
for products such as palay, mung beans, and bulad was recorded.
- The DC motor was tested for consistent rotation of the drying chamber to ensure even
exposure to heat and airflow.
- The system's energy efficiency was evaluated by monitoring the battery’s charge-discharge
cycles during extended use.

 Performance Assessment:

- The drying results were analyzed to confirm uniformity, speed, and quality.
 - Adjustments were made to optimize the system, including refining temperature control
settings and motor speed for better drying outcomes.

2. Drying Experiments

The performance of the D.R.A.Y.A apparatus was evaluated through a series of drying
experiments using various agricultural products, including crops and fish. These trials were
designed to measure the system's efficiency, compare it with traditional drying methods, and
assess its adaptability under varying environmental conditions.

 Selection of Test Products:

- Crops: Palay and mung beans were selected as representatives of common agricultural
products.
- Fish: Bulad (dried fish) was included to evaluate the apparatus’s suitability for seafood
drying.

 Experimental Procedure:

- The selected crops and fish were evenly distributed in the rotating drying chamber.
- The iron nichrome heater was set to appropriate temperature levels based on the product
being dried:
o Level 1–2: Suitable for delicate crops like mung beans.
o Level 3–4: Ideal for mid-range drying requirements like palay.
o Level 5: Used for sturdier products such as fish like bulad.

- Each trial was conducted under controlled conditions to ensure consistent results.

 Measurement and Data Collection:

- Drying Time: The time required for each product to reach its optimal dryness was recorded.
 - Environmental Factors: Temperature, humidity, and sunlight intensity were monitored during
each trial using appropriate sensors. These factors were documented to assess their impact on the
drying efficiency.
- Traditional Method Comparison: Identical samples of the test products were dried using
traditional sun-drying methods. The drying time and quality of results were compared with those
achieved by the D.R.A.Y.A apparatus.

 Performance Evaluation:

- The quality of the dried products was assessed based on moisture content, appearance, and
overall dryness.
- The energy efficiency of the apparatus was calculated by comparing the power consumption
to the drying output.
- Observations on system functionality, including heater and motor performance, were noted
for potential refinements.

IV. Data Collection

The data collection process focused on measuring essential parameters to evaluate the
performance and efficiency of the D.R.A.Y.A apparatus. These parameters provided insights into
the system's effectiveness in drying various agricultural products.

 Key Parameters Measured:

o Drying Time:

- The total time taken for each product to reach its optimal dryness was recorded.
- Drying time was compared with traditional sun-drying methods to assess the apparatus’s
time-saving capability.

- Moisture Content (Before and After Drying):

- Moisture content was measured using a digital moisture meter at the start and end of each
drying trial.
 - The percentage reduction in moisture content was calculated to determine the thoroughness
and consistency of the drying process.

- Energy Consumption:
- The energy output from the solar panel was measured in watts to determine the total power
generated during operation.
- The power consumption of the DC motor and iron nichrome heater was recorded to evaluate
the apparatus’s energy efficiency.

 Evaluation Metrics:

- The efficiency of the D.R.A.Y.A apparatus was analyzed based on the relationship between
drying time, moisture reduction, and energy consumption.
- Comparisons were made with traditional methods to highlight improvements in productivity
and sustainability.

V. Data Analysis

The data collected from the drying experiments was analyzed using appropriate statistical
tools and methods to evaluate the performance and efficiency of the D.R.A.Y.A apparatus. The
analysis focused on comparing the drying efficiency of the apparatus against traditional drying
methods.

 Statistical Tools and Methods:

o Descriptive Statistics:

- Mean and Percentage:

- The average drying time and moisture reduction were calculated to determine the overall
performance of the apparatus across multiple trials.
- Energy efficiency was expressed as a percentage of solar power utilized versus energy
consumed by the apparatus.
 o Comparative Analysis:

- A comparison of drying time, moisture content reduction, and energy consumption was
conducted between the D.R.A.Y.A apparatus and traditional methods.
- Efficiency gains were highlighted by examining differences in drying time and energy use.

 Graphical Representation:

- Data was visualized using bar graphs and line charts to illustrate differences in drying
performance, energy usage, and moisture reduction for better clarity and understanding.

 Efficiency Evaluation:

- A performance ratio was calculated to combine key metrics (time, energy, and moisture
reduction) into a single efficiency score.
- Environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and sunlight intensity were correlated
with drying performance to identify optimal operational conditions.

VI. Timeline

The project followed a structured schedule to ensure the systematic design, testing, and
evaluation of the D.R.A.Y.A apparatus. The timeline was divided into distinct phases, each with
specified tasks and durations.

 Project Phases:

- Phase 1: Design and Construction (Weeks 1–2)

- Finalize design specifications and gather materials.
- Assemble the solar-powered dryer, including the installation of the solar panel, nichrome
heater, and DC motor.

- Phase 2: Initial Testing and Calibration (Week 3)

- Test the dryer in controlled conditions to verify functionality.
- Adjust heater levels (0–5) for various crops and fish.

- Phase 3: Drying Experiments (Week 4)

- Conduct trials with different products (e.g., palay, mung beans, and bulad).
 - Record data on drying time, moisture content, and energy consumption.

- Phase 4: Data Analysis and Evaluation (Week 5)

- Analyze collected data using statistical tools.
- Compare results with traditional drying methods.

Task/Week 1-2 3 4 5 6
Design and Construction

Initial Testing

Drying Experiments

Data Analysis

Economic Viability

- Phase 5: Economic Viability Assessment (Week 6)

- Perform cost analysis and benefit assessment.
- Compile findings into a comprehensive report.

Through this conceptual design process, the foundation is laid for creating a practical,
effective, and user-friendly solar-powered crop dryer. By carefully planning and modeling the
dryer before construction, the researchers ensures that the final prototype will meet its
performance and design objectives efficiently.

RESULT
 DISCUSSION

The results from the evaluation of solar-powered crop dryers indicate significant
advancements in agricultural drying processes, particularly in terms of efficiency, quality
preservation, and environmental sustainability. D.R.A.Y.A, as opposed to traditional open sun
drying methods, demonstrate a marked improvement in drying rates and product quality due to
their controlled environments and enhanced heat retention capabilities. The result of this project
suggests that solar powered crop dryers are easier compared to sun drying methods. Solar dryers
offer greater control over the drying process. D.R.A.Y.A allows for more precise temperature
and humidity regulation, leading to more consistent and predictable drying results. This is crucial
for maintaining quality and preventing spoilage. Solar dryers can often dry crops faster than sun
drying, leading to increased efficiency and reduced drying times. This can be particularly
beneficial in regions with limited space or where rapid drying is essential. Sun drying is heavily
dependent on weather conditions, with rain posing significant challenges. Solar dryers, on the
other hand, can operate even in cloudy or rainy weather, providing a more reliable drying
solution. The method of leaving the crops standing in the field for drying is popular in areas
where maturity of the crops coincides with the beginning of a dry season. However, a crop left
unharvested was exposed to attack by insects, birds, wild animals, strong wind and occasional
rain showers which can damage and reduce the crop considerably.

The implications of these results are profound, especially in regions where

agricultural production is hindered by high humidity and unpredictable weather conditions. The
use of solar dryers not only protects crops from contamination and pests but also enhances the
efficiency of the drying process by utilizing solar energy, which is abundant in many developing
countries. Furthermore, the economic benefits of solar dryers are noteworthy; they can be
constructed from low-cost materials and do not require ongoing fuel expenses, making them
accessible to smallholder farmers (Maryana et al., 2023). This is particularly relevant in the
context of rising energy costs and the need for sustainable agricultural practices.
CONCLUSION

These findings substantiate the applicability of D.R.A.Y.A (Drying and

Renewable Agricultural Yield Apparatus) over the sun drying methods. The results validate that
D.R.A.Y.A is consistent with the growth of agricultural technology which focuses on efficiency
and environmentally friendly processes as it does not require electricity to work. The said
apparatus also enhances the quality of the final product, in contrast to the traditional method of
drying crops in the sun, there is a possibility that the dried crops might be destroyed as a result of
changes in the weather or excessive exposure to the sun on the part of the farmer. Also, other
work in this field has noted that renewable energy based, controlled, drying systems are superior
to traditional systems in relation to drying time, energy consumption and product shelf life
(jetir.org, 2022). The researchers also the finds that D.R.A.Y.A offers shorter times of operation,
reduces the extent of weather dependence, and reduces the labor input levels while improving the
quality and shelf life of products. These results offer strong evidence to support the premise that,
renewable and controlled drying systems will improve the efficiency of the drying process for
palay, mung beans and fish for smallholder fishing and farming households. The overall, results
support the application and effectiveness of D.R.A.Y.A as an appropriate modern response to
drying problems. In light of this, the researcher comes to the conclusion that the aforementioned
device appears to be effective. This action might transform the agriculture industry. Farmers will
benefit from this since it will increase the nation's economic growth.

REFERENCES

Department of Public Works and Highways Office of the Secretary. (2013, April 12).
Department Order No. 41, Series of 2013: Banning of Drying of Palay and other Farm Produce
along National Highways.

Alam, M., Saha, C., & Alam, M. (2019). Mechanical drying of paddy using BAU-STR dryer for
reducing drying losses in Bangladesh. Progressive Agriculture, 30, 42–50.
Chupungco, A., Dumayas, E., & Mullen, J. (2008). Two-stage grain drying in the Philippines.
ACIAR Impact Assessment Series Report No. 59, 50 pp.

Hughes P. and Daglish G. (2005). Information, knowledge and training gaps in the post harvest
sector of the Philippines grain industry: ACIAR Project ASEM/2005/017. Project summary.
Department Primary Industries and Fisheries, Queensland.