ANIS ADRIANA BINTI MAHFUZ POLITEKNIK SEBERANG PERAI
The project titled “Innovative Design of a Corn Kernel Separator with Integrated Weight Monitoring System” focuses on developing an automated device that efficiently separates corn kernels from the cob while simultaneously measuring their weight in real time. Corn shelling in small to medium-scale farms is commonly done manually, which is labor-intensive, time-consuming, and lacks accuracy in weight measurement. To overcome these issues, the proposed system integrates automation and digital weighing using an ESP32 microcontroller, HX711 load cell amplifier, and a 5 kg load cell for precise weight monitoring. A DHT22 sensor is included to measure environmental conditions, and data are displayed on an LCD screen and transmitted via Wi-Fi and MQTT to a web dashboard for remote observation. The separator’s motorized mechanism automates the shelling process, reducing human effort and improving efficiency. Experimental results showed that the system accurately measured weight with a margin of error of ±5 grams while maintaining minimal kernel damage. The automation shortened shelling time significantly and provided clear, real-time readings on the display. This innovative design proves to be a cost-effective, reliable, and user-friendly solution for modernizing corn processing, especially for small-scale farmers. The project demonstrates the potential of combining IoT and automation technologies in agricultural applications. Future enhancements could include automatic motor shut-off at a target weight, improved motor control, and cloud-based data storage to further optimize performance and usability.