The central aim of this project is to design and implement a solar-powered automated crop-drying machine for small-scale farmers. Post-harvest losses in developing regions, particularly among small-scale farmers, significantly affect food security and the economic stability of these communities. Traditional drying methods are inefficient and vulnerable to weather conditions, leading to high crop spoilage rates. Current solar drying solutions often lack automation, versatility, and affordability, particularly for small-scale, rural applications. This project attempts to fill these gaps by developing an energy-efficient and automated drying system that utilizes solar power to dry a variety of crops under controlled conditions.

This research is situated within the context of sustainable agricultural technology and renewable energy, addressing the urgent need for affordable, scalable solutions for rural farmers. Previous work in solar drying technologies has focused on enhancing drying efficiency and incorporating automation, but few solutions have successfully combined these with cost-effective, locally accessible designs tailored to small-scale operations.

The research methodology includes the design and construction of a prototype solar dryer with key features such as adjustable temperature and humidity control, automated moisture sensing, and energy storage for operation during low sunlight. The dryer’s performance will be evaluated based on its drying efficiency, energy consumption, and ability to maintain optimal conditions for a range of crops.

The expected results are a reduction in post-harvest losses through more efficient drying, enhanced crop quality, and improved economic viability for small-scale farmers. These outcomes will be discussed in the context of their potential to be scaled and adapted in rural agricultural contexts, contributing to the broader goals of sustainable farming and energy-efficient technologies.