Investigación Tecnológica IST Central Técnico

Study of technological gaps towards a sustainable insertion of electric vehicles

2026-04-06T15:20:58+00:00

La integración masiva de vehículos eléctricos (VE) tensiona las redes de distribución, diseñadas para flujo unidireccional, causando caídas de tensión, desbalances y degradación de la calidad de la energía (aumento de SAIFI y THD). Paralelamente, la ansiedad por la autonomía limita la adopción, debido a la gestión ineficiente de la energía a bordo y a la falta de sistemas de monitorización en tiempo real. El análisis se basa en una revisión sistemática de literatura técnica para identificar los desafíos interconectados. Examinando el impacto de la carga de VE en la estabilidad de red y los criterios para la ubicación óptima de estaciones, la arquitectura de cargadores (PFC + DC-DC) y estrategias de carga (CC-CV) para la eficiencia y seguridad de las baterías. las tecnologías del vehículo (telemetría de alta frecuencia, frenado regenerativo, algoritmos de estimación de SOC/SOH) para optimizar la autonomía. La solución requiere un enfoque de sistema dual. En la infraestructura, se necesita una planificación de red activa con ubicación óptima de carga y capacidades de gestión bidireccional para mitigar impactos. En el vehículo, es crucial integrar sistemas de gestión de energía en tiempo real, algoritmos de diagnóstico de batería y recuperación de energía. Solo esta coordinación técnica garantizará una transición sostenible, asegurando simultáneamente la estabilidad de la red y una autonomía confiable para el usuario.

Comparative Analysis of the Octane Rating of Extra and Super Gasoline at Stations in Quito

2026-04-06T15:19:59+00:00

The quality of fuel is essential to ensure the efficient performance of modern internal combustion engines, especially in high-altitude cities such as Quito, located at 2,850 meters above sea level, where atmospheric conditions affect combustion. In Ecuador, Extra (approximately 85 octane) and Súper (92–95 octane) gasolines are marketed. This study aims to determine whether there are significant variations in octane number among different service stations. Samples of Extra and Súper gasoline were collected from various stations located in geographically distributed areas of Quito, and three independent measurements were performed per sample using calibrated digital octane meters to obtain representative averages. The results show that the fuels do comply with Ecuadorian regulations; moreover, the measured octane index exceeds the minimum required value. These findings indicate that there is variability in the fuel quality available to consumers, despite established regulatory standards.

Validation of the electrical configuration of a bank of reconditioned nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries in an off-grid photovoltaic system for powering an automotive repair shop

2026-05-05T14:24:07+00:00

This study validates the implementation of a battery bank consisting of reconditioned NiMH batteries from hybrid vehicles, powered by an off-grid photovoltaic system, for an automotive repair shop. In compliance with CPE INEN-NEC 2018, IEC 60617, and ARCONEL 001/21 standards, thereby ensuring operational safety and mitigating thermal failures through interconnection protocols. Meeting the identified critical energy demand of 3.64 kWh/day, the designed system uses four 550 Wp panels and a 3.8 kVA inverter, successfully covering 14% of the workshop’s total consumption. Despite limitations such as self-discharge, the technical feasibility confirms a two-year payback period. The study concludes that the reuse of recycled NiMH batteries promotes the circular economy and reduces operating costs through a properly designed electrical installation. Furthermore, it establishes a replicable educational model that strengthens technical training in renewable energy and promotes environmental sustainability.

Evaluation of the accounting treatment under IAS 16 and its impact on photovoltaic generation projects for industrial energy optimization

2026-06-03T12:31:05+00:00

This research analyzed the accounting treatment under International Accounting Standard 16 (IAS 16) and its impact on photovoltaic power generation projects aimed at industrial energy optimization in Ecuadorian companies. The study was conducted using a quantitative, correlational-explanatory, and non-experimental research design, considering a sample of 27 companies located in Quito, Latacunga, and Ibarra from the manufacturing, textile, food, and metalworking sectors. The research integrated variables related to accounting recognition, depreciation, useful life, and impairment of photovoltaic assets, as well as indicators of energy efficiency, economic savings, and financial profitability. The results showed that 81.5% of the companies adequately recognized photovoltaic systems under the guidelines established by IAS 16, although limitations related to specific accounting policies and periodic impairment assessments were still identified. Likewise, an average reduction of 31.4% in energy costs and annual savings close to USD 48,600 per company were identified. In addition, 74.1% of the projects reported positive net present values and favorable internal rates of return, confirming the economic feasibility of industrial photovoltaic generation projects. Statistical analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between the application of IAS 16 and industrial energy optimization (r = 0.784; p < 0.05). It is concluded that appropriate accounting management of photovoltaic assets strengthens financial sustainability, operational efficiency, and business competitiveness within industrial energy transition processes.

Monitoring the Technification of PET Recycling in Educational Institutions.

2026-06-03T12:34:22+00:00

Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing environmental problems of our time. Globally, approximately 359 million tons of plastic are generated annually, a significant fraction of which ends up in landfills or the environment, causing irreversible damage to ecosystems. In Ecuador, the situation is critical, with 15,000 tons of solid waste produced daily, of which only 4% is recycled. Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) bottles represent a substantial portion of this waste due to their widespread use as beverage containers and their slow degradation. Educational institutions can play a crucial role in promoting recycling and sustainability by implementing plastic bottle compacting machines. These machines not only reduce waste volume, facilitating transportation and recycling, but also serve as educational tools to foster a culture of sustainability among students and faculty. This paper analyzes the technification of PET recycling at the Instituto Superior Tecnológico Central Técnico (ISTCT) and the importance of monitoring in the implementation of these technologies. Drawing on the semester records of the "Juntos por el Ambiente" Club (2023-I to 2025-II), a descriptive and trend analysis of PET collection is performed, showing sustained growth even though the process is still carried out manually and the compacting machine developed at the institution is not yet operational. The study emphasizes that, without monitoring and follow-up mechanisms, the technical, environmental, and educational benefits of these initiatives risk being lost, and it explores the implications of their adoption within a broader framework of public policies and sustainability strategies.

ANÁLISIS COMPARATIVO BASADO EN EL ESTUDIO DE DATOS MEDIANTE CÁMARAS TERMOGRÁFICAS PARA DETECTAR FALLAS EXISTENTES EN UNA MÁQUINA A MEDIR.

2026-06-03T12:28:20+00:00

Infrared thermography is a non-destructive inspection technique increasingly used in industry because of its ability to identify thermal variations in operating equipment without direct contact. In environments where processes depend on precise temperature control, such as melting and heat-treatment furnaces, this technology makes it possible to assess operating conditions, detect anomalies, and support preventive maintenance strategies. The objective of this research was to perform a comparative analysis of the thermal behavior of an old furnace and a current electric furnace located in the heat treatment workshop of the Industrial Mechanics program by using a FLIR ONE PRO thermal imaging camera. The methodology consisted of a descriptive-comparative, field-based, and non-experimental study supported by direct observation, simultaneous heating of both furnaces under the same time interval, thermographic image capture, and subsequent analysis using FLIR Thermal Studio software. The results showed that after 90 minutes of operation, the current furnace reached 850 °C, whereas the old furnace only reached 552 °C, revealing significant differences in thermal efficiency, heat distribution, and heating capacity. Chromatic analysis clearly identified cold and hot zones, facilitating the interpretation of the performance of each piece of equipment. It is concluded that infrared thermography is an effective, safe, and functional tool for the evaluation of industrial machinery, since it optimizes inspection time, reduces operational risks, and improves decision-making in maintenance and thermal control processes.

Design and construction of a plasma cutting machine with an automatic system for "fish mouth" cuts in round tubes

2026-06-04T17:34:23+00:00

In the metalworking sector, the fishmouth cutting process for round tubes is a high-demand operation in the fabrication of metal structures. However, its manual execution using chip removal with punches and drills results in material loss, dimensional inaccuracies, and risks for the operator. This paper describes the design, construction, and validation of a plasma cutting machine with an automatic rotation system, designed to perform fishmouth cutting on round steel tubes with thicknesses from 2 mm to 6 mm and diameters from 2" to 5". The system integrates a 1/8 hp geared motor operating at 10 RPM, an aluminum pulley transmission mechanism with a 2:1 gear ratio, SKF double-row bearings, and a Porten PS-EC40 plasma cutter. Electrical control is implemented using an electromagnetic contactor with latching, start and stop pushbuttons, and pilot lights. Structural calculations confirmed that the 30×30×3 mm ASTM A-36 square tube withstands the applied loads, with a calculated stress of 16,165.80 Pa compared to an allowable stress of 165.47 MPa. Experimental validation demonstrated that the system performs continuous, uniform, and reproducible 360° cuts, reducing operating time and material losses compared to the manual method. The prototype was implemented in the welding workshop of the "Central Técnico" Higher Technological Institute in Quito, Ecuador, as a platform for practical learning in automated cutting processes.

Silla de ruedas de tres llantas para la optimización arquitectónica en personas con discapacidad física

2026-06-05T19:18:07+00:00

The urban and domestic mobility of people with physical disabilities is severely limited by architectural barriers, such as curbs and steps lacking standard ramps. This article presents the design, structural calculation, and construction of an electromechanical wheelchair prototype equipped with a three-wheel planetary rolling system, designed to overcome vertical obstacles up to 18 cm in height. Methodologically, a mixed-method approach was applied, integrating a situational analysis through surveys and classic analytical calculations of machine elements (shafts, gears, and kinematic motor selection). Structurally, the chassis was optimized using A36 structural steel due to its high mechanical strength and economic feasibility in the local market. The planetary transmission system was configured using a spur gear train with a module of 2. The electrical power control was resolved through a logical arrangement of automotive relays, substituting expensive electronic solutions. Field results demonstrated that the prototype requires a minimum power of 0.45 HP and a torque of 105.84 Nm at the critical climbing position. The article concludes by validating the feasibility of low-cost manufacturing, identifying the need for a secondary assistant to ensure kinematic stability on high-friction stairs or irregular surfaces.

Diseño y fabricación de un prototipo distribuidor de componentes automatizado mediante el uso de una impresora 3D para transportar insumos de bodega hacia una línea de producción.

2026-03-17T17:15:15+00:00

El diseño del prototipo automatizado de
distribución de insumos se lo lleva a cabo con un
Software CAD, con ayuda de la impresión 3D se
fabrica sus componentes. La parte electrónica
cuenta con un sensor TCR5000 colocado en la
parte inferior se encarga de sensar la línea negra
que se encuentra por debajo, esta a su vez sirve
como guía para definir el recorrido y el
desplazamiento que realiza, el sensor óptico
colocado en la parte frontal detecta los obstáculos
que se atraviesan en su camino, después de ser
retirado prosigue con su recorrido a través de las
cuatro etapas definidas en la línea de producción.
Con estos elementos se integra el distribuidor a
una línea de producción, se realiza una
comparación entre una distribución manual y una
automatizada considerando funcionamiento,
desempeño y tiempos de distribución.
Este distribuidor tiene un sistema automatizado
que reduce los esfuerzos físicos que conlleva una
manual, mejora el control de almacenamiento de
materiales en stock de bodega y a su vez se
asegura una mayor calidad del proceso,
disminuyendo los errores humanos

Development and Implementation of an Automatic Medication Dispensing System Based on Precision Suction Cups and XY Coordinate Control

2026-05-07T14:24:25+00:00

This research presents the design, development, and manufacturing of a medication dispensing machine that integrates an automated motion system along the X, Y, controlled by DC motors, a suction pump, and embedded systems for user management and machine operation. The system features a 19-inch LCD visual interface and a balance input system via an electronic coin acceptor, all managed by an Orange Pi 3 LTS and an ESP8266 board. A multi-level navigation logic was developed for medication selection using physical buttons, and a software-configurable pricing system was implemented.