Construction of regression equation for mathematical planning of cocoon pupae devitalization

The article presents recommendations for improving the initial processing regimes of cocoons produced by intensive methods. In the course of the research, rational parameters for inactivating the pupae of cocoons in intensively cultivated were determined using the method of experimental mathematical design. A regression equation was developed to describe the effect of input factors—drying temperature (T), time (t), and layer thickness (S)—on the percentage of pupae devitalization. The homogeneity of variances was verified using the Cochran's test, regression coefficients were calculated, and their significance was assessed using the Student's t-test. As a result, a final regression equation was obtained. Based on this equation, contour plots representing the interactions between X1, X2, and X3 were generated using Mathcad. By comparing these plots, the optimal processing parameters were identified. The research results showed that when local hybrid cocoons such as Zarafshon-2 and Zarafshon-3, cultivated under different methods, were subjected to hot-air devitalization at temperatures of 90°C, 100°C, and 110°C for durations of 60, 90, and 120 minutes, the most optimal regime was found to be 90°C for 120 minutes. This mode ensured complete devitalization of the pupae, prevented moth emergence, and stabilized the drying coefficient within the range of 2.34–2.42.