DEVELOPMENT OF AN AUTOMATED SYSTEM FOR FORECASTING, ADJUSTMENT, AND CONTROL OF AIRLIFT SAPROPEL EXTRACTION MACHINES

Abstract

The article presents an analytical overview demonstrating the feasibility of using pneumatic (airlift) sapropel extraction machines designed to obtain organic sapropel raw material – a fundamental component in the production of fertilizers for organic farming. The section State of the Art and Problem Statement highlights the shortcomings of the existing mechanical adjustment and control systems of such machines, which are often inefficient and prone to operational failures. Since pneumatic sapropel extraction systems have proven to be energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable in obtaining organic raw materials and are currently undergoing active modernization, a comprehensive automated system was proposed as the result of this research. The developed system simultaneously performs several functions — it forecasts, adjusts, and controls the machine’s operating process. The system determines and configures the optimal technological parameters of the workflow and automatically monitors, modifies, and manages them depending on the unpredictable characteristics and properties of the sapropel deposit. It also forecasts potential changes in the operating process and structural loads that may lead to machine failure, thereby preventing such occurrences. The paper presents a block diagram illustrating the sequence of processes for forecasting, adjustment, and control of airlift sapropel extraction machines, as well as the layout of information and control devices that implement the operational process. The proposed system will increase the efficiency of machine operation, ensure uniform extraction of sapropel layers, and provide high-quality raw material with minimal impact on the aquatic ecosystem.