EASI: Engineering and Applied Sciences in Industry
The EASI Scientific Journal: Engineering and Applied Sciences in Industry is a digital and print publication dedicated to disseminating original scientific research in the fields of engineering sciences and business management within the industrial context. The journal is edited and managed by the Faculty of Industrial Engineering at the University of Guayaquil and is published on a biannual basis. It holds the identifiers e-ISSN: 2953-6634 and p-ISSN: 3073-1526. The journal operates under a no Article Processing Charges (APC) policy, meaning that authors are not required to pay any fees for submission, processing, or publication. EASI is indexed in Latindex catálogo 2.0, Amelica, LivRe, Periódica, Google Académico, Miar , Dialnet and Road.
Contributions published in the EASI journal follow the open access license CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 4.0). This license empowers you as an author and ensures wide dissemination of your research while still protecting your rights. For authors: Authors retain copyrights without restrictions according to CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 license. The journal obtains a license to publish the first original manuscript. For readers/users: Free access and distribution: Anyone can access, download, copy, print, and share the published article freely according to the license CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 terms. Attribution required: If any third party use the published material, they must give credit to the creator by providing the name, article title, and journal name, ensuring the intellectual property of the author(s), and helping to build the scholarly reputation. Non-commercial use: only noncommercial use of the published work is permitted. Noncommercial means not primarily intended for or directed towards commercial advantage or monetary compensation by any third party. No modifications allowed: The content of the published article cannot be changed, remixed, or rebuilt upon the author’s work. This ensures the integrity and accuracy of the research findings.
Service Quality Evaluation in Electronic Invoicing: Sentiment Analysis of Customer Behavior
Electronic invoicing has become a fundamental part of the digital transformation of organizations, facilitating operational efficiency. This study evaluates the quality of service in electronic invoicing systems in Ecuador through sentiment analysis applied to user comments. Using advanced natural language processing (NLP) techniques, the BERT model was implemented to automatically classify customer opinions into positive, negative, or neutral sentiments. The analysis was conducted in four stages: data processing, sentiment polarity classification, comment categorization (into recommendations and non-recommendations), and result interpretation. The findings reveal thematic patterns that reflect both user-valued elements and sources of dissatisfaction, particularly in terms of usability, technical support, and system performance. The results show a predominance of positive sentiment, while also highlighting critical areas that need improvement. The model demonstrated high accuracy and enabled real-time visualization of customer perception. As a recommendation, the study proposes optimizing the user interface, automating key processes, and providing staff training to enhance the user experience and strengthen service competitiveness within the digital sector.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ginger M. Machado Ruiz, Angelo M. Silva Pincay, Juan C. García Plúa, Michelle A. Varas Chiquito https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Challenges and Opportunities of Artisanal Female Entrepreneurship in Guayaquil, Ecuador and Its Sustainable Impact
This study aimed to identify the main challenges and opportunities of women’s artisanal entrepreneurship in Guayaquil and to analyze its relationship with economic, social, and environmental sustainability. The research involved 93 artisans from the Guayaquil Handicraft Market, using a questionnaire validated with adequate levels of reliability (α = 0.82–0.88; KR-20 = 0.76–0.81) and statistical consistency (CFI = 0.92; TLI = 0.90; RMSEA = 0.07). The results show that, in the economic dimension, the educational level of artisans is associated with the legal formalization of businesses (χ² = 19.3; p = 0.05; V = 0.32), and social security affiliation is related to the perception of income improvement (χ² = 12.6; p = 0.048; V = 0.28), reaching an average score of 70/100. In the social dimension, participation in associations strengthened family and community roles (χ² = 8.2; p = 0.041), with an average score of 75. In the environmental dimension, the greatest weakness was observed: 87.1% of artisans do not recycle and 91.4% dispose of waste with regular garbage, resulting in an average score of only 35. The overall sustainability index was 65/100. In conclusion, although these entrepreneurs constitute a cultural and economic driver for the city, public policies and training programs are needed to strengthen integral sustainability, with particular emphasis on the environmental dimension.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mary Figueroa Guijarro, Luisa Ramos Suárez, Angel Plaza Vargas https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Probabilistic Model of Industrial Motor Reliability as a Function of Lubricant Degradation: A Case Study MDU-01 Motor Hyundai H21/32
This work applies a probabilistic reliability model for industrial diesel engines based on lubricant degradation to the MDU-06 Hyundai H21/32 engine at thermal power station, Ecuador. The engine operated seamlessly from August 2023 until October 2025, generating power continuously. Thus, the model predicts dependability based on oil condition behavior rather than mechanical faults. The study offers a non-linear and multivariate degradation model to track the associated evolution of TBN, Sulfation, Nickel, and Vanadium. Stochastic degradation modeling and Weibull reliability estimation were used to estimate lubricant life under real operating conditions. Results show a Weibull shape parameter β = 8.3 and scale parameter η = 1920 hours, with dependability drastically decreasing after 2000 operational hours. These results demonstrate that lubricant degradation can accurately forecast engine health, allowing predictive maintenance without interruption. Condition-based maintenance (CBM) procedures are optimized to maintain system dependability over 80% while lowering premature wear and maintenance costs with the suggested framework.
Copyright (c) 2026 Jonathan Jiménez Gonzales, Luis Chango, Erick López, Gladys Sotominga https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
EASI: Volume 4, Issue 2. [Special issue]
The study and application of AI, together with simulation and prospective models, enable us to tackle new industrial and environmental challenges. Functional prototypes therefore improve efficiency, sustainability, and decision-making in various sectors through innovative, data-driven technological solutions. Explore articles that inspire simulation and in-depth analysis of new technologies. Immerse yourself in this new work presented by EASI.
Copyright (c) 2025 Franklin Samaniego-Riera https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Factorial design for selecting an emotion recognition model using artificial intelligence
This article studies the effect of certain supervised training hyperparameters (number of epochs, batch size, and learning rate) on the performance of an artificial intelligence model for recognizing five emotions from facial images. A full factorial design was used, with 60 combinations run 12 times, resulting in 720 experiments developed on Google's Teachable Machine platform. The dependent variable corresponds to the percentage of accuracy in identifying emotions. The data were analyzed using a four-way analysis of variance and post hoc tests. The results show that varying the learning rate from 0.0001 to 0.001 increases accuracy by 46%, using a larger number of batches improves accuracy by 41%, and changing the batch size has the least improvement effect and increases variability. In terms of emotions, neutral was the best identified and sadness the worst. Statistical analysis confirmed significant differences between factor levels and their interactions. It is concluded that properly selecting supervised training hyperparameters is critical to improving the performance of the artificial intelligence model.
Copyright (c) 2026 Anny Astrid Espitia Cubillos, Robinson Jiménez-Moreno https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Development of a Jetson Nano drone for monitoring and detection of forest fires
This project presents the development of an artificial intelligence-based prototype for the monitoring and detection of forest fires. The prototype consists of a drone equipped with a high-resolution camera connected to a Jetson Nano. The system was programmed in Python to develop Convolutional Neural Network models for identifying fire indicators, such as smoke and flames, from the images captured by the drone. Unlike traditional methods that rely on fixed or satellite sensors or cameras, this mobile approach enables flexible surveillance of large forest areas, even in hard-to-reach terrain. During testing, an accuracy rate of 95% to 99% was achieved, demonstrating the system’s capability to process large volumes of visual data in real time. The maximum video transmission range is approximately 3.7 km without interference. Smoke and fire detections were transmitted to the ThingSpeak platform allowing visualization and analysis to facilitate fast and effective decision-making. It is concluded that the prototype aims to enhance response capabilities by enabling early fire and minimizing environmental and economic damage.
Copyright (c) 2025 Neiser Ortiz-Mosquera https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The Role of Consumers in Container Recycling in the Purified Water Industry
The sustainable management of plastic packaging in the purified water industry represents a significant environmental challenge, especially in Ecuador, where recycling infrastructure is insufficient and environmental education is limited. This study aims to analyze the behavior of millennial consumers in Guayaquil regarding plastic packaging recycling, identifying barriers and opportunities to strengthen their participation in the process. A mixed methodology was used, combining a review of scientific literature with structured surveys targeting millennials between 18 and 55 years of age to analyze their habits and perceptions regarding plastic packaging recycling. Survey results reveal that 65% of respondents regularly consume water in plastic containers, while 40% identify the lack of infrastructure as a significant barrier to recycling, and 60% are unaware of proper recycling practices. These findings underscore the need to develop comprehensive strategies that foster environmental education, optimize recycling infrastructure, and promote effective economic incentives, strengthen the circular economy and ensure the adoption of long-term sustainable practices in the purified water industry.
Engineering for sustainable process management
Copyright (c) 2025 Leonardo Banguera, Javier Jiménez-Peralta, Cinthia García-García, Ángel Arcos-Coba https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Simulation as a tool for production optimization, in the case of plastic pipe manufacturing
Simulation is a method that allows creating a scenario like the real one to predict specific events. The objectives was determine how simulation has become an essential tool to optimize production and estimate its decisive contribution to industrial development. Methodology quantitative, descriptive study, use of indirect observation in a plastic pipe processing plant, grinding area, extrusion-injection. The results obtained expressed that, the application of the Arena software facilitated the development of the simulation of the production process, whose positive impact on the decision to increase the number of mills from 3 to 4, eliminated the existing bottleneck, increasing the installed capacity in the next five years in 22%. It was concluded that, the simulation has become an essential tool in manufacturing organizations, which must be integrated into all areas of the production process, to guarantee successful decision-making in terms of supply, design, development, manufacturing, marketing, and after-sales service.
Byron José Loor Alcivar https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9735-6836
Copyright (c) 2025 Byron Loor Alcívar, Ronny P. Carriel Sevillano, Betsy M. Olvera Moran, Sonia Rodríguez Merchán https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The Analysis of scientific papers related to intelligent forklifts
This document shows an analysis of documents related to intelligent forklifts, which seeks to identify the advances in the field and recognize the existing knowledge gap in the area to support the future design of a forklift that, based on artificial intelligence algorithms, can operate with certain autonomy and be called an intelligent forklift. The PRISMA 2020 guide is used for the search, selection, evaluation and summary of findings of the papers. We start with the search in the Scopus database, defining inclusion criteria to limit the study. The documents are characterized, then an analysis of their bibliographic networks is made using Wosviewer, after which their summaries are studied with Voyant, to succinctly present the main findings. It is concluded that it is important to promote collaborative work among authors, organizations and countries, to complement the advances in forklifts, their routing and movement planning using artificial intelligence tools, such as convolutional or transformer type networks.
Copyright (c) 2025 Anny Espitia-Cubillos, Robinson Jiménez-Moreno, Esperanza Rodríguez-Carmona https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Application of transformer nets for discrimination of liquid cleaning products
This paper presents an artificial intelligence algorithm based on transformer neural networks that allows the discrimination of liquid products identified with different labels and with presentations in various colors, from a camera, to facilitate the management of their subsequent handling by a computer, which allows us to realize, in manufacturing environments, the connection between the physical and the digital world. The process begins with the digitalization of the products to establish a database. Next, the parameters of the network training are defined, which are then evaluated by measuring the learning time, accuracy, and classification time, all of which are developed in a virtual environment. Thanks to the results, it is possible to conclude that even with a small amount of data, including label images that are not complete or of the best quality, the processing times do not exceed 0.5 seconds. A recognition rate of 100% accuracy is achieved, corresponding to the absence of confusion between the considered categories, given the robustness of the selected transformer network.
Copyright (c) 2025 Anny Astrid Espitia Cubillos, Robinson Jiménez-Moreno, Esperanza Rodríguez-Carmona https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Energy forecast of Ecuador's Tertiary Sector to 2040 Using the LEAP Model
This study forecasts energy consumption in Ecuador’s tertiary sector through 2040 using a prospective energy model developed with LEAP software. It relies on official data and variables such as employment figures and household consumption. Three scenarios are analyzed: Business as Usual (BAU), High (HIGH), and Low (LOW) consumption. Results show an 87% increase in energy use between 2020 and 2040, rising from 5 million to 10 million barrels of oil equivalent (BOE). Under the BAU scenario, consumption is projected at 10 million BOE; 6 million in the LOW scenario; and 13 million in the HIGH scenario. Out of 11 activities analyzed, 84% of energy use is concentrated in three key areas: Information and Communication, Commerce, and Accommodation and Food Services. The sector also displays a strong reliance on electricity, which represents 76% of its total energy consumption. Transportation services were excluded from the analysis, as they are considered a separate sector due to their high energy demand. The findings highlight the urgency of implementing sustainable strategies to manage energy use, especially in high-consumption activities. This information provides a valuable foundation for decision-makers and stakeholders in designing energy policies focused on efficiency and reducing environmental impacts in Ecuador’s tertiary sector.
Copyright (c) 2025 Yoiler Tigua Villaprado, Joao Cadena-Barrera, Pedro Castro-Verdezoto, Daniel Ortega-Pacheco https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
In a constantly evolving world, digital tools are transforming the way we teach, learn and think. In these pages, readers can explore innovations, trends and reflections on the future in the digital era. Discover inspiring articles, insightful analysis, and practical experiences for educators, students, and technology enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in the fascinating dialogue presented by EASI.
Copyright (c) 2025 Franklin Samaniego Riera https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Conceptual development and simulation of a PLC-based greenhouse climate regulation system using synthetic data
This paper presents the conceptual design and simulation of an automated greenhouse climate control system aimed at melon cultivation in the coastal region of Ecuador. The proposal is based on the use of programmable logic controllers (PLC) and a human–machine interface (HMI), developed entirely within a simulation environment using synthetic data and predefined engineering assumptions. The system is designed to regulate critical environmental variables such as air temperature, relative humidity, and soil moisture through a structured and modular control logic implemented in Ladder language. The adopted methodology prioritizes logical and functional validation of the system without relying on physical sensors or field testing, allowing the evaluation of operational coherence under different simulated environmental scenarios. The results demonstrate stable and consistent system behavior, with appropriate automatic responses to conditions of thermal and water stress. Additionally, the proposed control strategy shows potential improvements in water use efficiency and greenhouse microclimate stability. This study represents a preliminary, non-experimental contribution that provides a structured foundation for future stages involving physical implementation, field validation, and the integration of advanced technologies in agro-industrial greenhouse automation systems.
Copyright (c) 2026 Franklin Cesar Ramírez-Baquerizo, Oscar Carrasco Agraces, Freddy Pincay-Bohórquez, Luis Pilacuan-Bonete https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Mechanical performance of mortars reinforced with steel fibers
This article focuses on the evaluation of the resistance of mortars to indirect tension and compression, simple and reinforced, with different percentages of steel fiber. The aim is to find resistant and economical solutions to reinforce informal housing, through the use of plaster that improves the general characteristics of a masonry. Masonry constructed in an informal or artisanal manner has a high degree of structural vulnerability. First, the indirect tensile strength and displacements supported by simple and reinforced mortars are compared, where it is observed that reinforced mortars offer greater strength and deformation capacity as a function of the percentage of fiber. Then, the compressive strength is compared, where the reinforced mortars also show adequate results. In terms of economics, the reinforced mortar presents disadvantages due to the cost of the fibers; in the percentages studied in this article (10, 15, 20 and 25%), the use of reinforced mortars for informal housing is not so attractive; it is recommended to develop similar investigations with different percentages of fiber.
Copyright (c) 2025 Matías Renato Castro Castillo, Jaime Xavier Nieto-Cárdenas, Paúl Illescas-Cárdenas, Pilar Roxana Naspud Uruchima https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Estudio de caso sobre el impacto de las herramientas digitales en una empresa chocolatera
This study analyzes the impact of digital tools on production processes in a chocolate industry company in Ecuador, within the broader context of Industry 4.0. Through a qualitative and descriptive approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten employees working in production and administration. The objective was to explore the perceived benefits, challenges, and operational changes associated with the integration of digital technologies. The research followed a non-experimental, inductive design, and used Atlas.ti for thematic coding and qualitative analysis. The results reveal that digital tools have significantly transformed core areas such as production, distribution, and marketing. The most used technologies include management software, machinery sensors, CRM systems, and social media platforms. Participants highlighted improvements in efficiency, error reduction, and resource optimization, as well as challenges related to staff training and technological adaptation. This study contributes empirical evidence on how digitalization unfolds in small and medium-sized enterprises in emerging economies. It also offers insights into the design of inclusive innovation strategies and context-specific policies to support digital transformation, particularly in the food sector.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ricardo Vega Granda, David Cabezas García, Fabian Rosales Pintado, Jannette Granda Martínez, Azucena Ortega Pindo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Characterization of the Production of Fuels Obtained from the Pyrolysis of Polystyrene
This study addresses the specific characterization of fuels obtained through the pyrolysis of polystyrene after being analyzed in laboratories and a study of their applicability. Pyrolysis is the chemical decomposition of materials by heating them at high temperatures without the presence of oxygen to decompose them into simpler fractions. The research focused on evaluating viscosity, flash point, density and ASTM distillation and then comparing the results with commercial fuel standards. The results show that pyrolysis-derived fuels have characteristics intermediate between diesel and gasoline, with a density similar to diesel, but a viscosity and flash point closer to gasoline. Distillation reveals a mixture of volatile and non-volatile components, suggesting that these fuels could be alternatives, although further testing to evaluate their performance and safety in specific applications is needed to validate the feasibility and safety of polystyrene pyrolysis by-products as alternative fuels.
Copyright (c) 2025 Diego Navarro, Silvana Angulo, Pedro Castro, Dany Salazar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Drag and Lift Forces in Blunt and Aerodynamic Bodies
The objective of this study is to analyze the drag and lift forces acting on blunt and streamlined bodies. To achieve this, experiments were conducted in a subsonic wind tunnel using objects of varying geometries, including a small smooth sphere, a large smooth sphere, a rough sphere, a flat disk, and a streamlined body — specifically, a NACA airfoil profile. Airflow within the tunnel was generated using a variable-speed fan, operated at different rotation speeds. Data collection was performed with the aid of specialized software, recording fifty measurements for each case, including drag force, kinematic viscosity, temperature, and airflow velocity. The results were used to construct plots of the drag coefficient versus Reynolds number for the blunt bodies, and the lift coefficient versus Reynolds number for the NACA airfoil, enabling a comparative analysis of aerodynamic behavior across different geometries.
Copyright (c) 2025 MILTON FLORES, Eduardo Baidal Bustamante, RICHARD VARAS https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Web Platform for Georeferenced Telemonitoring: A Case Study on Elderly Healthcare
The monitoring and management of biomedical variables remain critical areas of focus within the scientific and technological fields. The increasing prevalence of cardiac conditions and the risks associated with geographic disorientation among the elderly population highlight a pressing challenge. This study presents a web-based platform designed to receive real-time biomedical data for assessing patient health status. To achieve this, the variables were simulated to define the necessary data structure. All data generated through an Android-based device were transmitted over a cellular network and stored in a preconfigured Cloud database, enabling the creation of a consultable historical record for future use. The platform was subsequently evaluated by 50 users, who shared their insights and rated aspects such as usability, interface design, and functionality through a detailed survey.
Copyright (c) 2025 Orlando Barboza, Andres Florez, Cesar Viloria-Nuñez, Diego Gomez-Ceron https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Automated water flow reallocation using level sensors and a control system for equitable distribution in rural neighborhoods of Juan Montalvo parish, Latacunga
This paper analyzes and presents a proposal to automate the distribution of drinking water to four rural neighborhoods in Juan Montalvo Parish, Latacunga, aiming to optimize its allocation. For many years, the scarcity of water and the absence of a system for its efficient distribution has posed persistent challenges for households in rural areas of Ecuador. To address this issue, a water flow control proposal was developed, considering both the continuous availability of the resource, regardless of the season, and the population size of each neighborhood in Juan Montalvo. The proposed solution involves implementing a PID control system to regulate the proportional opening and closing of control valves. The valve opening percentages were designed based on the number of inhabitants in each neighborhood, ensuring an equitable distribution of water resources across the communities. Automating the drinking water distribution process represents a significant advancement in water resource management. This proposal minimizes waste by ensuring precise control of outflows to each neighborhood, contributing to the sustainable use of water resources.
Copyright (c) 2025 T. De La Cruz Tapia, J. Figueroa Olmedo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Strategies to promote the adoption of digital payment platforms in microenterprises in the northern sector of Guayaquil
This article aims to identify strategies to expand the adoption of digital payment platforms in microenterprises in northern Guayaquil, highlighting their importance in business modernization and economic growth within e-commerce. The exploratory-descriptive and propositional research analyzed barriers such as the preference for cash, lack of knowledge, and economic and technological limitations. Through a survey of 278 microentrepreneurs, it was found that only 34.4% use digital platforms, mainly Payphone and Kushki. The benefits of adoption include greater security, increased sales, and better financial organization. Strategies such as educational campaigns, financial incentives, technological improvements, and generating trust are proposed. The research concludes that collaboration between the public, private, and academic sectors is essential to facilitate the digital transition and enhance business competitiveness in Guayaquil.
Copyright (c) 2025 Raquel Vera, Linda Yong https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Experimental video in Physics: a complement to hybrid teaching
The quarantine closed schools in response to the rapid spread of COVID-19, posing among the risks to high school education, the increase in the educational gap. We present research on how school closures in 2020 influenced student performance when using videos for teaching physics based on the curriculum. Data from 69 fourth-semester students who performed various exercises with mathematical problems were analyzed and it was found that student performance did not increase significantly during school closures in 2020. However, the analysis also suggests a reduction in the achievement gap between low- and high-performing students
Copyright (c) 2025 Ramón F. Estrada, César Mora https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Flexibilization of Annual Operational Planning in Crisis Contexts: A Conceptual Model Proposal for Ecuadorian SMEs
The Annual Operational Planning (POA) is a key tool for organizational management; however, its rigidity limits its effectiveness in crisis contexts characterized by high uncertainty. This article analyzes strategies to make POA more flexible and to strengthen the adaptive capacity of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Ecuador. Through a systematic literature review and the analysis of best practices, six key strategies are identified: dynamic strategic diagnosis, prioritization of critical objectives, scenario-based planning, adaptive key performance indicators (KPIs), resource optimization, and adaptive organizational culture. As a result, a conceptual model is proposed, integrating these strategies in a structured and progressive way, tailored to the operational realities of SMEs in the country. Although the proposal is based on theoretical evidence, the absence of empirical validation is recognized as a limitation; therefore, pilot applications in different productive sectors are recommended. The model aims to serve as a practical tool to guide operational planning in complex and volatile environments.
Copyright (c) 2025 Victoria Vera, Raquel Vera-Ortega, Gloria Vanegas https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Remote Monitoring and Control System for Solar Drying Based on ATMega 2560 and LoRa Technology
Sun drying is an effective technique for food preservation, although it presents significant challenges in optimizing and controlling its variables. This paper describes the development of a remote control, data acquisition and monitoring module designed to optimize solar drying processes. The system uses a customized electronic board based on the ATMega 2560 microcontroller, which integrates LoRa technology for remote data storage and monitoring. The development of the module was structured in three main phases. The first step was a proof-of-concept operation with an Arduino Mega development board, which tested the control and central control concepts. Secondly, after identifying the need for increased durability and stability, a custom table was designed using CAD software and Bakelite copper to improve the durability and reliability of the system. Finally, in the third step, the final version of the tabletop, adapted to the drying conditions of the sun, was printed and assembled. The developed module can be adapted to operate on different types and scales of solar dryers, and, being built with low-cost devices, it is an affordable solution for the control and monitoring of this type of process. This solution has potential to improve the efficiency of drying processes for various contexts.
Copyright (c) 2025 Néstor Ortiz-Rodríguez, Jesús Águila-León, Miriam Lucero-Tenorio, Jesús F. Villaseñor-Correa https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Comparison of the performance of the pyrolysis processes of PET, LDPE and PS, in a prototype batch process reactor
In this study, the critical factors of the pyrolysis process of plastics to obtain liquid hydrocarbons derived from petroleum were determined. The evaluation of these factors consisted of tests at specific temperatures of 350, 395 and 400 °C using different types of plastics, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polystyrene (PS) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE). The tests were carried out in a batch reactor with an average reaction time of 10 minutes. It was found that PS, processed at 395 °C for 8 minutes, produced the highest number of liquid hydrocarbons, with an average yield of 91% by weight compared to the liquid products. In contrast, PET generated less than 30% product, while LDPE achieved a yield of 84%. The determining factors were the average temperature, the thermal insulation of the reactor and the selection of the type of plastic. Other factors, such as pressure and reaction rate, also proved to have a relevant impact on the process results.
Copyright (c) 2025 Jorge Torres, Milton Vinces, Pedro Castro, Jaime Arias https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Design and implementation of a mechatronic system for monitoring worker exposure in cold storage facilities
In response to the increasing need for enhanced occupational safety in cold storage facilities, this study presents the design and validation of a mechatronic time control device specifically developed for monitoring the exposure times of warehouse operators in a multinational company. Over the past two decades, Ecuador has significantly increased regulations to safeguard worker health and safety. In compliance with these regulations, this research addresses the challenges operators face when exposed to sub-zero temperatures during their work shifts. The proposed system integrates mechanical, electronic, and control components to systematically track and manage operators' time within cold rooms, ensuring compliance with predefined safety thresholds. A NodeMCU microcontroller, digital temperature sensors, and a robust communication interface form the device's core. This device records entry and exit times, monitors ambient conditions, and triggers alerts when exposure limits are approached. Extensive validation was conducted using a 3D-printed resin prototype, demonstrating the device's capability to function effectively in harsh environments. The system's efficacy was evaluated through real-world testing, where operators used the prototype during their shifts. Data collected confirmed the device's reliability in tracking exposure times and enhancing worker safety.
Copyright (c) 2024 Marcelo Fajardo-Pruna, Luis Lopez-Estrada, Jhon Barbery, Guillermo Medina https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Kinetic Study of Supercritical Water Gasification of cellulose from Biomass
This work carried out the supercritical gasification of cellulose in water (SCWG). The products obtained from the reaction were measured and their kinetic parameters were determined. The SCWG of cellulose was carried out in a supercritical PFR reactor evaluating three reaction temperatures: 372 °C, 374 °C, 376 °C for a reaction time of 15 min. The reaction products were analyzed by gravimetry, liquid chromatography HPLC and gas chromatography. The kinetic parameters of the SCWG reaction were then determined. This reaction produces hydrogen, with high energy potential, and lactic acid, a high-value product. The results show that, by raising the temperature of cellulose from subcritical to supercritical, the production of both compounds increases, reaching its highest concentration at a temperature of 376 °C and pressure of 3300 psi. To determine the kinetic parameters, integrated equations were used, revealing that the SCWG reaction follows first-order kinetics under the analyzed operating conditions. and its kinetic constants for each temperature are: k1=0.01386 〖min〗^(-1), k2= 0.01538 〖min〗^(-1) and k3=0.01529 〖min〗^(-1). This study advances the understanding of supercritical gasification as an alternative to convert waste into valuable products.
Copyright (c) 2024 Sebastián Chico, Michelle Romero, Diego Chulde, Ricardo A. Narváez C. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Stereotypes and education level: An influence on the selection of engineering studies and techno-scientific education
This work addresses the possible causes why students do not opt for an engineering career or techno-scientific education, facts evidenced through obtaining a sample of the engineering faculties at the Universidad Técnica del Norte, the possible causes of this statistic were revealed. The surveys were successfully carried out with the collaboration of the authorities and the students. The analysis of results reveals that gender stereotypes are still present in society, affecting students when selecting a career. The history of engineering goes back to the great ancient civilizations, but the participation of women in engineering is partially recent. It is necessary to recall that engineering branches and techno-scientific education were reserved for men for a long time, since education in general was far from the reach of women.
Copyright (c) 2023 Camila Mejía, Milton Pabón, Jayro Pupiales, Katheryne Chiluisa, Fernando Ramírez Paredes https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Tobacco consuming in engineering careers: causes and effects
The aim of the current study is to identify the causes and consequences of tobacco smoking social problems in the lives of students in the first years of engineering at a public university. A total of 107 students were selected and non-probabilistic sampling tests were carried out. An analysis was carried out based on the responses collected from an anonymous survey, which revealed the causes and effects of tobacco use in students to reach a general conclusion with the results obtained, how harmful it is to mental and physical health.
Copyright (c) 2023 Victor Pule, Andrés Villarreal Bolaños, Anderson Valverde Toapanta, Silvia Arciniega Hidrobo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Statistical analysis of vehicle accidents in the city of Ibarra over the period 2017-2022
A relevant fact in the city of Imbabura is the result of traffic accidents. In some of these events people are reported injured and in extreme cases deceased. This situation should be minimized in order to avoid consequences. In pedestrians, drivers and the community in general. Considering the above, it is important to identify the causes of traffic accidents in the city, by performing a detailed analysis of the factors that influence the occurrence of these events. For this purpose, the analysis of statistical data obtained in the period 2017-2022 by the state entities, for traffic accidents considering the main data carried out at the time the accidents happen, is exposed. The qualitative method was chosen to obtain conclusions from heterogeneous and unstructured data that are not detailed numerically. Based on the information collected, human factors were identified as key elements, specifically alcohol consumption, speeding and disrespect for traffic regulations. With respect to the areas of the city with the highest number of accidents, it was determined that they correspond to the areas surrounding the Amazonas Market and the Stadium; while the highest incidence of accidents occurs on weekends.
Copyright (c) 2023 Carlos Santana , Anthony Maldonado, Fabio Cabascango, Bryan Guerrero, Gabriel Quelal, Brizeida Gamez https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Socioeconomic impact of dairy farming in indigenous communities of Ecuador
The economic system of agricultural production in Ecuador is an integrated activity into the productive chains and markets in indigenous communities. Its comprehensive analysis allows characterizing and zoning production in these populations. The intervention area was Colta, a canton in the Chimborazo province. The data was obtained through direct interviews with dairy producers and processors, through random sampling by productive areas, covering two urban and four rural parishes (Cajabamba, Sicalpa, Columbe, Cañí, Juan de Velasco and Santiago de Quito). Milk production is considered the most profitable activity, despite the low price that the producer receives. Currently, 81% of farmers receive less than 0.40 USD/L of milk, which covers production costs and contributes to a sustainable circular economy for the area. The production depends on a low technology level family system. Most of the production is destined for small marketing channels such as artisan cheese shops and sales to wholesalers. In conclusion, despite the limited technological development in the region, there are opportunities for improvement both in industry and in the social of vulnerable populations.
Copyright (c) 2023 Gabriela Andrade, María Andrade, Andrés Suárez-Usbek, Hugo Bautista-Espinoza, Andres Haro-Haro https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0