Design of an Automated Milk Processing Machine for Producing Cheese Fortified with Milk Powder in Rural Areas

Camarena A.; Rodriguez L.; Chamorro S. · 2025 International Conference on Robotics Systems and Automation Engineering, RSAE 2025 (2025) · DOI: 10.1109/rsae65932.2025.11488129

Resumen

This paper presents the design and validation of an automated milk processing machine specifically developed for producing fortified cheese using powdered milk in rural areas with high rates of childhood anemia and malnutrition. Unlike artisanal methods, the proposed system introduces a low-cost, hygienic, and automation-oriented technological solution that integrates essential processing stages-pasteurization, powdered milk incorporation, coagulation, stirring, and pressing-under controlled sanitary conditions. In Peru, according to the 2023 ENDES survey, 43.1% of children aged 6 to 35 months suffer from anemia, rising to 50.3% in rural areas, while chronic malnutrition affects up to 20.3%. The system was built with AISI 304 stainless steel and equipped with sensors, heaters, actuators, and a hydraulic press, processing 20 liters per cycle and reducing production time by 35% compared to artisanal methods, while maintaining food safety standards. Structural simulations confirmed a safety factor of 2.43, ensuring reliability for continuous operation. Beyond technical results, the machine demonstrates feasibility of low-cost automation in small-scale dairy production, directly improving nutrition and strengthening food security in underserved communities. Furthermore, the integration of intuitive interfaces and flexible configurations highlights adaptation potential. By aligning with public health goals, the system represents innovation with nutritional and economic significance. Interdisciplinary collaboration enhances development through engineering, nutrition, and rural research. This technological approach supports inclusivity, ensuring fortified dairy access, promoting sustainable advancement. The model confirms the transformative role of low-cost innovation. Finally, scaling the system may inspire further optimizations in agri-food technologies.

Instituciones: Universidad Continental