Automated paddy drying in a smart DCS bin: Drying behaviour, energy efficiency, and economic feasibility

Abstract

This study presents the development and evaluation of a smart drying–cum–storage (DCS) bin with a capacity of 36 kg of paddy for on-farm drying applications. The system integrates thin-layer cross-flow drying with real-time sensing using temperature–humidity sensors, a load cell, and Raspberry Pi–based automated control. Paddy moisture was reduced to a safe storage level under controlled drying conditions, with drying occurring entirely in the falling-rate period, confirming diffusion-dominated moisture transfer. The moisture-triggered automatic cut-off function effectively regulated adsorption–desorption cycles and maintained near-uniform thermal conditions across the grain layers. Energy and exergy analyses indicated efficient utilization of supplied energy with minimal losses, while the economic assessment demonstrated the feasibility of the system for small-scale farm use. Overall, the smart DCS bin offers a compact, energy-efficient, and economically viable solution for integrated paddy drying and short-term storage.