Hydrometer, Wort Fermentation, Inclinometer, MEMS Accelerometer, Embedded System
Abstract
This work presents the theoretical study, modeling, and construction of an inclinometer densimeter capable of continuously measuring the density variation of liquids during the fermentation process. The sensor is based on the principle of buoyancy and the difference in weight and buoyant forces, which cause an inclination in a floating object, whose angle is a function of the density of the liquid where the sensor is partially submerged. The inclination angle is measured using a triaxial MEMS accelerometer, allowing the measurement of the gravity acceleration projection on the sensor's axes. The paper demonstrates the design and construction of a cylindrical prototype containing all the necessary electronics to acquire sensor data and send it to a base via Bluetooth. The work shows various experimental setups to evaluate the calibration and the sensor, including tests with continuous density variation. The collected results show that despite possible improvements needed to ensure the robustness of the process, the measurement method is viable and valuable in monitoring a continuous density change process, such as a fermentation process.
