Bamboo straw processing machine/ Jean C. Arcillas, Kurt Exzel M. Cadiz, Jarhl A. Cajandab, Clifford John A. Carabio, Princess Joy P. Lubigan, and Joshua E. Peñaranda .--

Thesis (undergraduate)

College of Engineering .-- Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering: Technological University of the Philippines, 2024.

Includes bibliography:

This thesis presents the design and development of an automated system for
processing and curing Schizostachyum lumampao bamboo straws, aimed at
improving the efficiency and consistency of bamboo straw production.
Schizostachyum lumampao, a locally abundant species of bamboo, serves as an
eco-friendly alternative to plastic straws. Traditional methods of processing and
curing these straws are labor-intensive and time-consuming.
The proposed system automates the cutting, sorting, and curing processes, with a
focus on the introduction of a curing stage involving immersion in hot water and
neem solution. This method enhances the durability and resistance of the bamboo
straws against microbial and insect infestations, enhancing their suitability for
extended use. The system is controlled by a microcontroller-based platform,
integrating sensors and actuators for precise operation.
Experimental tests were conducted to test the performance of the system,
particularly in terms of curing time, energy consumption, and product quality.
Results show that the automated system significantly reduces manual labor and
processing time while ensuring consistent quality of the bamboo straws. This
project promotes the sustainable use of renewable materials and the application
of automation in eco-friendly manufacturing processes.
Keywords: Bamboo Straw, Schizostachyum lumampao, Arduino, eco-friendly,
machine learning, microcontroller