Integration of Smart Farming Technologies in the Design and Implementation of an Automated Pellet Feed Production System for Catfish Aquaculture

This study concentrates on the design, development, and implementation of an automated pellet feed production system specifically for catfish aquaculture. The objective is to rectify inefficiencies and labor issues in manual feed production by the implementation of a mechanized solution that improves productivity, uniformity, and operational simplicity. The method was designed to rectify inefficiencies in manual feed processing, augment feed uniformity, and elevate operational efficiency by integrating smart farming technologies. The apparatus incorporates many sensors, such as temperature (DS18B20), humidity (DHT22), current (ACS712), tachometer, and power sensors (INA219), facilitating real-time monitoring and data collection. The extrusion temperature was sustained at an average of 87.5°C, material moisture at 14.8%, motor speed at 1420 rpm, and power consumption at 468 W, hence maintaining uniform feed quality and effective energy utilization. Testing encompassed operability assessments, feed quality evaluations, and performance analyses. The results demonstrate that the system effectively minimizes time and labor in feed preparation while generating high-quality, uniform pellets that promote fish growth. Overall, this study highlights how the convergence of automation, sensorization, and IoT connectivity can transform traditional catfish farming into a smart, efficient, and sustainable aquaculture system, contributing to the advancement of precision aquaculture technologies in developing regions.