Philippine E-Journals

DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF A SEMI-AUTOMATED PLASTIC BOTTLE AND PLASTIC WASTE

Engr. Leah Santos | Sebastian Joaquin Bayaca | Ivan James Matibag | Patrecia Louise Solocasa

 

Abstract:

The purpose of this research is to design a semi-automated machine for faster and easier production of Ecobricks using polyethylene terephthalate (PET) 1.5L bottle and polypropylene/polyethylene sachets as fillers. The insertion of the PET bottle to its machine holder and recapping of the produced ecobricks are done manually. The machine used the shredding and compacting mechanisms that is controlled by the developed program using the Arduino. It has a load sensor and limit switch that serve as the triggering devices for notification. Based on tests and evaluation, the machine attained 100% functionality and 86.67% reliability. The machine provides no significant difference between the weight of the produced ecobricks and the manual process, based on MannWhitney U value and with significant difference when it comes to the time of production based on Independent samples T- test. The designed machine proves that it is functional when it comes to shredding, compacting, and weighing processes. It is reliable in producing the ecobricks for two (2) to five (5) continuous working hours and accurate by providing a minimum of 525 grams fillers to the PET bottle. It is efficient and convenient to use when it comes to the operating hours as compared to manual process.