Alfa Publicaciones

Vol. 7 No. 1.1 (2025): Aprendizaje Integrado

Published: 2025-02-17

Academic Practice as a Projectual Approach to Modular Parametric Structures: Case Study of the Pixel Wall.

Introduction. Contemporary architecture faces challenges arising from dynamic urban contexts and environmental constraints. Parametric design and digital fabrication have emerged as key tools for creating flexible, efficient, and sustainable modular structures. This article explores their application in the development of the "pixel wall," a self-supporting modular structure. Objective. The study aims to evaluate the feasibility of parametric design and digital fabrication in creating adaptable modular structures, using the "pixel wall" as a case study, and to contribute to academic training in architecture. Methodology. A mixed-method approach was employed, combining literature review, algorithm development in Grasshopper, and practical experimentation. Scale prototypes were fabricated in a digital fabrication laboratory using materials such as cardboard and MDF. Results. The results demonstrated that parametric design optimizes material usage and enables the creation of adaptable structures. Prototypes made from MDF showed greater stability, validating the importance of material selection and slot configuration. Conclusion. Parametricism is ideal for projects requiring flexibility and optimization, while the geometric method is suitable for simpler designs. The "pixel wall" positions itself as a versatile solution for public spaces, with potential for urban and academic applications. General Area of Study: Parametric Architecture. Specific area of study: Parametricism and digital fabrication. Type of study: Original research article and literature review.

Fausto Andrés Lara Orellana, Jhonny Javier Zhigue Álvarez, José Remigio Gavidia Mejía, Ariana Paola Arregui Paredes

6-29

Treatment of Wastewater: A Case Study in San Isidro de Patulú.

This study aims to design a Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) for the communities of Santa Rosa and San Francisco in the parish of San Isidro de Patulú, with the purpose of reducing the pollutant load of the wastewater and ensuring compliance with the maximum permissible limits established by current regulations. A characterization of the wastewater was conducted, identifying key physico-chemical parameters, with Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD5), and Total Nitrogen standing out as the main pollutants exceeding regulatory limits. Based on these results, an efficient treatment line was designed, allowing for a significant reduction of the pollutants present in the wastewater. The evaluation of the treatment efficiency demonstrated that COD, BOD5, and Total Nitrogen values were reduced to levels within permissible limits, allowing the treated water to be discharged into the Guano River. A Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) was designed, which includes screening processes, followed by two sedimentation tanks, an upflow anaerobic filter (UAFF), and a drying bed for sludge management, ensuring that the final discharge meets the established environmental requirements. This study provides a technical and scientific basis for the implementation of a functional and efficient WWTP in the study area, contributing to the mitigation of the environmental impact generated by wastewater and promoting the sustainable use of water resources.

Alex Xavier Frías Torres, Danny Germán Muyulema Muyulema, Galo Wilfrido Núñez Aldás, Edgar Patricio Chusin Vega

30-48

Proposal for the transformation towards Industry 4.0 of the monitoring, maintenance and inspection of oil reservoir tanks in Ecuador

Introduction. The oil industry in Ecuador needs to change the way it monitors, inspects and maintains crude oil tanks. Industry 4.0, with IoT, AI and smart sensors, improves efficiency and reduces costs. However, there are technological and economic implementation gaps. A model is proposed to modernise and optimise these processes. Objective. To propose the technical and technological requirements necessary for the evolution of monitoring, inspection and maintenance processes in crude oil tanks in the oil industry in Ecuador towards a model based on the principles of Industry 4.0, to optimise operational efficiency, reduce environmental risks and improve sustainability.  Methodology.  Modernising crude oil tank monitoring, inspection and maintenance towards Industry 4.0 with IoT, drones and standardised cyber-physical systems includes diagnostic analysis, requirements definition, technology design, pilot testing and impact assessment. Results. The physical and cyber-physical Industry 4.0 system integrates IoT sensors, robots, drones and advanced technologies. Estimated investment of $196,000, optimizing efficiency, safety and operating costs, within global standards and ensuring long-term sustainability. Conclusion.  The implementation of Industry 4.0 technologies for the monitoring, inspection and maintenance of crude oil reservoir tanks is feasible in Ecuador's oil industries, as, with an initial investment of $196,000, it could optimize costs, increase operator safety and offer a high return on investment in the long term. General Area of Study: Industry and technology. Specific area of study: Industry 4.0, Oil & Gas. Type of study: Original article.

Lando Stephen Ocaña Pañora, Juan Carlos Chiza Llambo, Santiago Efrain Tibanquiza Chuncho, Geovanny Patricio Moreno Garzón

49-73

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