We turned to a design matrix to select the drying method that we would use for our project design. Several categories were created from the customer's expectations and each drying method was ranked on a 1-5 scale for each category. Point totals were then calculated for each method with the highest point total being the most optimal design. These designs were then color coded with least desirable being the deepest red and the most desirable being the brightest green. We found that the indirect-type passive solar-energy drying method was the most desirable option.

After our original design matrix was completed, we decided to add a fan powered by a solar panel to increase the rate of drying by forcing convection of the heated air within the drying chamber.