The Student Creativity Program Team in the Application of Science and Technology (PKM PI) from the Politeknik Negeri Semarang (Polines) has succeeded in creating innovative technology that has the potential to change the way tempe craftsmen in Dampyak Village, Sumurrejo, Gunung Pati, Semarang City, process soybeans. In an effort to increase the productivity and quality of the tempe produced, this student team utilized their expertise in various departments, led by Muhammad Maula Fikry (Electrical Engineering) with members Faranita Putri (Mechanical Engineering), Nurul Azmi (Accounting), and Zaenal Arifin ( Accounting), and guided by lecturer Sahid, ST, MT
As time goes by and demands for efficiency, tempeh craftsmen like Muhammad Abdurauf are faced with several obstacles in the process of making tempeh. Abdurauf still uses human power to wash the soybeans and mix the soybeans with yeast. This method results in limited production quantities and less consistent quality.
Muhammad Maula Fikry, head of the PKM Implementation of Science and Technology team, explained, "We saw the problems faced by Mr. Abdurauf and we felt that we could contribute to improving their production process. One of the biggest challenges is creating equipment that can process soybeans more quickly and cleanly.”
This is where the PKM Polines team started their journey in developing soybean washing machines and soybean mixing devices with yeast. This technology is designed to automate critical processes in tempe making, reduce dependence on human labor, and improve the quality of the final result.
According to Muhammad Maula Fikry, washing and mixing are key stages in making tempeh which affect the taste and texture of the final product. The ever-increasing market demand is a challenge in itself. The market currently requires up to 6 quintals of tempeh every day, while Abdurauf is only able to produce 4 quintals. It is hoped that this innovation from the PKM team can overcome this obstacle.
The team also partnered with Muhammad Abdurauf to test the tools they created in real situations. The results are very positive. The soybean and yeast washing and mixing equipment created by the PKM team has helped speed up the production process and improve product hygiene.
Muhammad Maula Fikry said, "This tool has been used to help the tempe making process of Mr. Abdurauf's partner and received very good feedback. "Currently, this tool is still being evaluated and planning is being carried out to continue to be developed, as well as to ensure program sustainability."
Apart from providing direct benefits to tempeh craftsmen, this innovation is also an inspiring example for other students about the great potential that can be generated through science and technology-based community service. The Polines Science and Technology Implementation PKM Team has proven that knowledge and technology can be used to create positive change in society, while inspiring the younger generation to get involved in similar efforts.