Design and performance of an automatic fish feeder with an adjustable spreader system
Abstract
This study aimed to improve the feeding process in aquaculture fish farming by designing and implementing an automatic feed spreader system that can adjust the feeding amount and schedule according to the fish species and age. The research methodology included functional analysis, prototyping, and testing to evaluate the performance of the prototype. The results showed that the weight sensor on the scales had high accuracy and precision with an error of 0.61 and a deviation of 0.11, respectively. The analysis of dropping and distributing feed showed a direct proportionality between feed mass, filling time and dropping time (R2 was above 0.94). Moreover, the time of spreading the feed was directly proportional to the amount of feed given (R2 was 0.94). The electric motor for throwing activity was regulated using an inverter with a linear relationship between the motor speed and inverter frequency. Additionally, the maximum throw distance was directly proportional to the motor's rotational speed. The automatic feed spreader system can solve the problems faced by fish farmers by providing a more effective and efficient feeding process. The system's ability to adjust the feeding amount and schedule according to the fish species and age can improve the growth and health of the fish and increase the profitability of the aquaculture industry. In conclusion, this study presents a successful design and implementation of an automatic feed spreader system with reliable and accurate performance. The system's features, including adjusting the feeding amount and schedule, can provide significant benefits to the aquaculture industry.
