Proposal for the planning process for the automation of the design of panamanian crafts: Case of the Junco Hat (Cyperus holoschoenus)

The agro-industry is defined as the economic activity developed in the territory, where the raw material in its production is of agricultural, livestock, aquaculture, or forestry origin. This activity can be either food-related or non-food-related and is processed in a way that aims to provide added value. In the context of this research proposal, we will contribute to the knowledge in non-food agro-industry, specifically the artisanal sector, with a focus on the junco hat. This project proposes a methodology structured in two stages, based on establishing a planning process for the automation in the creation of the mold used for crafting the junco hat, by using a new mold made with 3D technology. This approach aims to enhance the sustainability and productivity of non-food artisanal microenterprises in the agro-industrial sector, without altering the cultural value. This technology arises as an alternative in the face of global warming effects, where the “El Niño” phenomenon impacts the ecosystems of the junco and the trees used for crafting the wooden mold “cedro amargo”. 3D printing is characterized by customized manufacturing and the demand for parts made from various materials. This proposal is innovative and generates scientific knowledge. As a future line of research, sustainability management is proposed with the aim of rescuing and protecting nature and ecosystems for the conservation of the junco.