Technology innovation of dryer machine based on sustainability automation systems to increase agel fiber production in handicraft SME

Abstract

In Indonesia, natural fibers are extensively utilized as essential raw materials for various human needs. These natural fibers find significant application in handicrafts, particularly in small, and medium enterprises (SME) within the handicraft industry. Agel fiber is obtained from drying gebang leaves, is a prominent natural fiber, plays a vital role in the local economy of the Kulon Progo region in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Currently, the production process of raw materials to become fiber relies on conventional methods, primarily sun-drying, which often gives rise to numerous challenges such as temperature fluctuations and weather dependencies. Moreover, the physical posture adopted by workers during the drying process is ergonomically unfavorable, as they must bend over repeatedly to turn the Agel Fibers being dried under the sun. Recognizing these issues,ure it becomes imperative to develop a sustainable dryer machine equipped with advanced technology that enhances productivity while prioritizing employee ergonomics. This study employs the research and development (R&D) method, which encompasses analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation stages. The primary objective of this research is to design, fabricate, and test a dryer machine utilizing a sustainability automation system integrated with Internet of Things (IoT). The outcome of this research is a dryer machine that can effectively dry Agel leaves within a significantly reduced timeframe of 2-4 hours, with a maximum capacity of 10 kg per cycle. This achievement surpasses the conventional method, which typically takes 5-6 days to produce 10 kg of dried Agel Fibers.