Design and implementation of a mechatronic system for monitoring worker exposure in cold storage facilities

Authors

  • Marcelo Fajardo-Pruna Faculty of Industrial Engineering, University of Guayaquil. 090112 Guayaquil, Ecuador https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5348-4032
  • Luis Lopez-Estrada Department of Mechanical Engineering. Universidad Politécnica de Madrid. Madrid, Spain, 28006. https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4251-9305
  • Jhon Barbery Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Production Sciences, Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral. Guayaquil, Ecuador, 09-01-5863.
  • Guillermo Medina Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Production Sciences, Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral. Guayaquil, Ecuador, 09-01-5863.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.53591/easi.v3i1.0302

Keywords:

Mechatronic System, Occupational Safety, Cold Storage Monitoring, Time Control Device

Abstract

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.

Author Biographies

Marcelo Fajardo-Pruna, Faculty of Industrial Engineering, University of Guayaquil. 090112 Guayaquil, Ecuador

PhD in Mechanical Engineering (Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Spain, 2018). Mechanical Engineer (Escuela Politécnica Nacional, Ecuador, 2011). Expertise in artificial intelligence, neural networks, computer vision, collaborative robotics, and product lifecycle management.

Luis Lopez-Estrada, Department of Mechanical Engineering. Universidad Politécnica de Madrid. Madrid, Spain, 28006.

Mechatronics Engineer (Tecnológico de Monterrey. Mexico, 2005). PhD in Mechanical Engineering (Universidad Politécnica de Madrid. Spain, 2019), . He is currently working at the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid. Expertise: Industry 4.0, Micromechanics, Advanced Manufacturing, and Computer Vision.

Jhon Barbery, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Production Sciences, Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral. Guayaquil, Ecuador, 09-01-5863.

Mechatronics Engineer (Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral. Ecuador, 2022)

 

Guillermo Medina, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Production Sciences, Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral. Guayaquil, Ecuador, 09-01-5863.

Mechatronics Engineer (Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral. Ecuador, 2022)

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Published

2024-08-01

How to Cite

Fajardo-Pruna, M., Lopez-Estrada, L., Barbery, J., & Medina, G. (2024). Design and implementation of a mechatronic system for monitoring worker exposure in cold storage facilities. EASI: Engineering and Applied Sciences in Industry, 3(1), 40–51. https://doi.org/10.53591/easi.v3i1.0302