JEMBER — Jember State Polytechnic (Polije) has developed an Arduino Uno-based automatic filling and capping machine to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) producing soy milk. The machine automates liquid filling and bottle sealing, helping businesses improve packaging efficiency.

The innovation emerged from a capstone project by students in the Mechatronics Engineering Technology Study Program. The team consists of Muh. Yahya T.B., Irham Maulana H., Muh. Alif F., and Zaini.

Manual packaging can slow production and lead to inconsistent filling volumes. To address these challenges, the team developed an automated system that enables SMEs to manage their packaging processes more consistently.

The machine integrates an Arduino Uno with servo motors, stepper motors, proximity sensors, relays, and a water pump. Each component supports the control system as the machine carries out the bottle-filling and capping processes.

“We designed this Arduino Uno-based filling and capping machine specifically to help SMEs overcome production challenges caused by slow manual processes,” said Muh. Yahya T.B., one of the Polije student team members.

The team then prepared the mechanical design and control system diagram before assembling the components. This process helped them integrate the electronic and mechanical components into a single packaging system.

“The process concluded with complete assembly, providing a practical solution to the problem of inconsistent product volumes in the field,” Yahya added.

Through this innovation, Polije aims to help soy milk SMEs accelerate packaging and maintain consistent product volumes. In addition, automation has the potential to reduce direct contact during packaging, thereby supporting product hygiene.

The machine also demonstrates how applied technology can be integrated into vocational education. Through projects like this, Polije encourages students to develop innovations that address business needs and support the growth of SMEs.