Síntese e desenvolvimento de um simulador com realidade virtual (VR) de biodigestão para produção de biogás

Abstract

The immersive simulator that was developed has proven to be effective in simulating the anaerobic digestion process of effluents from cassava starch factories, based on a theoretical model for biogas production. This model includes detailed quantification of byproducts from fifteen distinct biochemical reactions, encompassing stages such as hydrolysis, acidogenesis, acetogenesis, and methanogenesis. To enhance user experience, three-dimensional elements created in Blender software, such as pumps, valves, the biodigester itself, storage tanks and heat exchanger were integrated, allowing for real-time interactions and analyses of the process. The simulator's interface is user-friendly, enabling manipulation through keyboard and mouse commands from a first-person perspective. Furthermore, a virtual reality mode has been implemented, offering an even more immersive experience. The results indicated a biogas composition of 48% methane, which is considered an appropriate outcome for the type of biomass used, according to the literature. However, improvements are acknowledged to be necessary, including the inclusion of more robust thermodynamic and kinetic models, as well as the installation of a water heating system to enhance the perception of reality. The simulator stands out particularly in the simulation of Cassava Wastewater Treatment, however, it is important to note that the simulator's accuracy may vary when applied to several types of biomasses.