Automated Modular Plant Care System for Green Roofs

Automated Modular Plant Care System for Green Roofs

Overview

The automated modular plant care system is designed to maintain and monitor green roofs, ensuring optimal growth conditions for plants while requiring minimal human intervention. This system integrates a variety of sensors, actuators, and controllers, using basic materials and components readily available from Amazon, McMaster-Carr, and Adafruit. The modular design allows for easy scalability and customization, making it suitable for various building sizes and plant types.

Key Components and Materials

1. Structural Framework

• Modular Planter Boxes: Constructed from durable, weather-resistant materials such as polycarbanote and aluminum, sourced from McMaster-Carr.
• Connectors and Fasteners: Stainless steel bolts, nuts, and brackets for assembling the modular units.

1. Watering System

• Water Pumps: Submersible or inline pumps available from Amazon, capable of delivering water to the plants as needed.
• Irrigation Tubing and Drippers: Flexible tubing and adjustable drippers to ensure precise water delivery to each plant.
• Water Reservoir: A large container to store water, with a rainwater harvesting component.

1. Sensors and Actuators

• Soil Moisture Sensors: Adafruit soil sensors to monitor moisture levels and send data to the controller.
• Temperature and Humidity Sensors: To monitor environmental conditions on the roof.
• Light Sensors: To measure the amount of sunlight received, ensuring plants get adequate light.
• Automated Valves: For controlling water flow, connected to the irrigation system.

1. Control System

• Microcontroller: An ESP32 or Raspberry Pi from Adafruit to serve as the central brain of the system.
• Relay Modules: To control the water pumps and valves based on sensor inputs.
• Power Supply: Solar panels with a battery backup system to provide power to the entire setup.

1. User Interface

• Mobile App or Web Dashboard: To monitor the system’s status, receive alerts, and adjust settings.

Functionality

The system’s primary functions include:

1. Automated Watering: Using soil moisture sensors, the system determines when plants need water and activates the water pumps and valves to deliver the right amount. This prevents over-watering and conserves water.
2. Environmental Monitoring: Temperature, humidity, and light sensors collect data to ensure plants are in optimal growing conditions. The system can trigger alerts if any parameter falls outside the ideal range.
3. Data Logging and Analysis: Collected data is stored and analyzed to provide insights into plant health and growth patterns, helping users make informed decisions about plant care.
4. Remote Control and Monitoring: Through a mobile app or web interface, users can monitor real-time data, receive alerts, and control the system remotely, providing convenience and peace of mind.

Assembly and Installation

1. Assemble Planter Boxes: Connect the modular planter boxes using stainless steel fasteners. Ensure they are securely attached to the roof structure.
2. Install Sensors and Actuators: Place soil moisture sensors in each planter box. Install temperature, humidity, and light sensors at strategic locations. Connect the irrigation system with tubing, drippers, pumps, and automated valves.
3. Set Up the Control System: Install the microcontroller, relay modules, and Wi-Fi/Bluetooth module in a weatherproof enclosure. Connect all sensors and actuators to the microcontroller. Set up the power supply with solar panels and battery backup.
4. Configure the User Interface: Set up the mobile app or web dashboard to receive data from the microcontroller and send commands back. Customize settings for watering schedules, alert thresholds, and data logging intervals.

Benefits

• Sustainability: Promotes green roofs, which improve air quality, reduce urban heat island effect, and provide insulation for buildings.
• Efficiency: Automated watering and monitoring reduce the need for manual labor and ensure optimal water usage.
• Scalability: Modular design allows the system to be expanded or reconfigured based on specific needs and roof sizes.
• Remote Access: Provides users with the ability to monitor and control the system from anywhere, ensuring plants are always cared for.

Conclusion

The automated modular plant care system for green roofs is a comprehensive solution that combines the benefits of automation, sustainability, and ease of use. By leveraging readily available components, it offers an accessible and scalable approach to maintaining healthy green roofs, contributing to a greener urban environment.

Part Name Planter Box 2

https://www.adafruit.com/product/5400

https://www.amazon.com/POWOXI-Waterproof-Motorcycle-Automotive-Powersports/dp/B08H7XWC6L?th=1

https://www.amazon.com/Renogy-Wanderer-Amp-12V-24V/dp/B07NPDWZJ7/ref=sr_1_3?crid=2BHSOSZJH82OZ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.t3TrBPNdyzW4sR0oOhKNw1J5P2d38ZST1WUn8B9PsLjs5NbZDskl05tbfq8tXb2ZoPzc-SPl9Obe3fTWkF0eQ7gS5TSiYZHhZOAwatsa3-gTRPSX3ENZgc43gG_j3bIZLykT1u0aIziraeT9a5UwkY1KRYBnjAJtB8FfpYIgYkZaKxTfsiKmTlnPBjNJJadJAVxPoHgfCQJ19zepr8VQEImsHZimxJ9NWOMOxemWxrk.JjJox05rqCrQOGUWJ9F0qpgD9jJEDRyPkoTjKRGt6ow&dib_tag=se&keywords=renogy+wanderer&qid=1717469246&sprefix=renogy+wanderer%2Caps%2C92&sr=8-3

Level Part Number Part Name External Component Milestone Description Item Number State Revision Lifecycle Quantity Material Name Change Order

1 Planter Box 2 Planter Box 2 Working 1 Steel

1.1 Other Other Working 1 Steel

1.1.1 VedicFileENGACC v101 VedicFileENGACC v101 v3 External Working 1 Steel

1.1.1.1 MainHolder MainHolder Working 1 Steel

1.1.1.2 Stand Stand Working 1 Steel

1.1.2 gutter gutter Working 2 Steel

1.2 Solar Panel Solar Panel External Working 1 Steel

1.3 Wood Wood Working 1 Steel

1.3.1 plywood plywood Working 1 Steel

1.3.2 Wood side piece Wood side piece Working 2 Steel

1.3.3 Wood front piece Wood front piece Working 2 Steel

1.4 Nuts Nuts Working 1 Steel

1.4.1 90633A009 90633A009 Working 1 Steel

1.4.1.1 90633A009_Low-Strength Steel Thin Nylon-Insert Locknut 90633A009_Low-Strength Steel Thin Nylon-Insert Locknut External Working 24 Steel

1.4.2 99904A101 99904A101 Working 1 Steel

1.4.2.1 99904A101_Medium-Strength Steel Serrated Flange Locknut 99904A101_Medium-Strength Steel Serrated Flange Locknut External Working 50 Steel

1.5 Hinge Hinge Working 1 Steel

1.5.1 5862K138_Neodymium Magnet 5862K138_Neodymium Magnet External Working 16 Steel

1.5.2 1603A7_Surface-Mount Hinge with Holes 1603A7_Surface-Mount Hinge with Holes External Working 4 Steel

1.5.2.1 hinge hinge Working 1 Steel

1.5.2.2 bottom plate bottom plate Working 1 Steel

1.5.2.3 top plate top plate Working 1 Steel

1.5.3 hinge side plate hinge side plate Working 1 Steel

1.5.4 hinge side plate smaller hinge side plate smaller Working 1 Steel

1.6 3D-Printed Parts 3D-Printed Parts Working 1 Steel

1.6.1 3D-Print Bottom Connector (1) 3D-Print Bottom Connector (1) Working 1 Steel

1.6.1.1 3D-Print Bottom Connector 3D-Print Bottom Connector Working 4 Steel

1.6.2 Hinge Spacer (1) Hinge Spacer (1) Working 1 Steel

1.6.2.1 Hinge Spacer Hinge Spacer Working 4 Steel

1.6.3 3D-Print Top Connector Back (1) 3D-Print Top Connector Back (1) Working 1 Steel

1.6.3.1 3D-Print Top Connector Back 3D-Print Top Connector Back Working 2 Steel

1.6.4 Hinge Spacer 2 Hinge Spacer 2 Working 1 Steel

1.6.4.1 hinge spacer 2 hinge spacer 2 Working 2 Steel

1.6.5 3D-Printed-Mid Connector 3D-Printed-Mid Connector Working 1 Steel

1.6.6 3D-Print Top Connector Front (1) 3D-Print Top Connector Front (1) Working 1 Steel

1.6.6.1 3D-Print Top Connector Front 3D-Print Top Connector Front Working 2 Steel

1.6.7 handle handle Working 2 Steel

1.6.8 3D-Printed-Mid Connector(Mirror) 3D-Printed-Mid Connector(Mirror) Working 1 Steel

1.7 Screws Screws Working 1 Steel

1.7.1 92186A546 92186A546 Working 1 Steel

1.7.1.1 92186A546_Super-Corrosion-Resistant 316 Stainless Steel Hex Head Screw 92186A546_Super-Corrosion-Resistant 316 Stainless Steel Hex Head Screw External Working 12 Steel

1.7.2 91249A204 91249A204 Working 1 Steel

1.7.2.1 91249A204_Black-Oxide 18-8 Stainless Steel Pan Head Phillips Screws 91249A204_Black-Oxide 18-8 Stainless Steel Pan Head Phillips Screws External Working 8 Steel

1.7.3 91249A194 91249A194 Working 1 Steel

1.7.3.1 91249A194_Black-Oxide 18-8 Stainless Steel Pan Head Phillips Screws 91249A194_Black-Oxide 18-8 Stainless Steel Pan Head Phillips Screws External Working 20 Steel

1.7.4 92186A552 92186A552 Working 1 Steel

1.7.4.1 92186A552_Super-Corrosion-Resistant 316 Stainless Steel Hex Head Screw 92186A552_Super-Corrosion-Resistant 316 Stainless Steel Hex Head Screw External Working 16 Steel

1.7.5 93190A536 93190A536 Working 1 Steel

1.7.5.1 93190A536_Super-Corrosion-Resistant 316 Stainless Steel Hex Head Screw 93190A536_Super-Corrosion-Resistant 316 Stainless Steel Hex Head Screw External Working 38 Steel

1.8 Metal Parts Metal Parts Working 1 Steel

1.8.1 1/8 Beam 1/8 Beam Working 1 Steel

1.8.1.1 2in x 1/16in 17.75in 2in x 1/16in 17.75in Working 2 Steel

1.8.1.2 2in x 1/16in 35.75in 2in x 1/16in 35.75in Working 2 Steel

1.8.2 Square Beam Square Beam Working 1 Steel

1.8.2.1 Square Beam 1in x 2in (1/16) 18in Square Beam 1in x 2in (1/16) 18in Working 2 Steel

1.8.2.2 Square Beam 1in x 2in (1/16) 16in Square Beam 1in x 2in (1/16) 16in Working 2 Steel

1.8.3 1/16 Beam 1/16 Beam Working 1 Steel

1.8.3.1 1in x 1/16in 18in 1in x 1/16in 18in Working 3 Steel

1.8.3.2 1in x 1/16in 17in 1in x 1/16in 17in Working 2 Steel

1.8.3.3 1in x 1/16in 36in 1in x 1/16in 36in Working 2 Steel

1.9 Polycarb/Acrylic Polycarb/Acrylic Working 1 Steel

1.9.1 polycarb front plate polycarb front plate Working 1 Steel

1.9.2 polycarb side 2 polycarb side 2 Working 1 Steel

1.9.3 polycarb top plate polycarb top plate Working 2 Steel

1.9.4 polycarb side 1 polycarb side 1 Working 1 Steel

1.9.5 polycarb back plate polycarb back plate Working 1 Steel

1. Assemble the Metal Frame

• Gather Materials
• Metal beams (sourced from McMaster-Carr).
• 3D-printed connectors.
• Stainless steel bolts and nuts (all bolts are the same size for simplicity).
• Frame Construction
• Lay out all metal beams and 3D-printed connectors.
• Align the beams with the connector slots, ensuring all parts fit together snugly.
• Insert bolts through the holes in the beams and connectors. Secure with nuts.
• Tighten all bolts uniformly to ensure stability.
• Final Shape
• Assemble the beams into a rectangular or square shape (box).
• Double-check all connections to ensure the frame is rigid and stable.

2. Attach Wood Panels

• Bottom Panel
• Place the bottom wood panel inside the metal frame.
• Secure the panel using 8 screws, evenly distributed to ensure stability.
• Side Panels
• Attach wood panels to the sides of the frame.
• Ensure these panels are secured tightly to contain water within the planter boxes.
• Water Drainage
• Design the bottom panel with small holes or a drip system to allow excess water to slowly drain out, preventing waterlogging while maintaining adequate moisture for the plants.

3. Install the Roof and Funnel System

Acrylic Roof Panels

Gather 2 acrylic panels.

Position them on top of the frame to form the roof.

Secure the panels to the frame using screws or brackets, ensuring they are stable and slightly angled to direct water flow towards the funnel.

3D Printed Funnel

Attach the 3D printed funnel to the bottom edge of the acrylic panels where water will collect.

Ensure the funnel is securely fixed and aligned to direct water into the bucket below.

Water Collection Bucket

Place any suitable bucket underneath the funnel to collect the drained water.

Ensure the bucket is positioned correctly to catch all the water from the funnel.

4. Attach Acrylic Doors

• Gather Materials
• Acrylic panels for doors.
• Hinges (sourced from McMaster-Carr).
• Magnets for keeping doors closed.
• Hinge Installation
• Attach the hinges to the metal frame where the doors will be installed.
• Secure the acrylic panels to the hinges, ensuring they open and close smoothly.
• Verify the alignment and operation of the doors.
• Magnet Installation
• Attach magnets to the frame and corresponding positions on the acrylic doors.
• Ensure the magnets are strong enough to keep the doors closed but allow easy opening.

1. Prepare Components

• Gather all necessary components: Arduino/Raspberry Pi, soil moisture sensors, temperature and humidity sensors, light sensors, relay modules, water pumps, automated valves, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth module, power supply (solar panels and batteries).

2. Set Up the Microcontroller

• Mount the microcontroller in a weatherproof enclosure.
• Connect the power supply to the microcontroller, ensuring it is properly grounded.

3. Install Sensors

• Soil Moisture Sensors: Insert these sensors into the soil of each planter box and run their wires back to the microcontroller.
• Temperature and Humidity Sensors: Place these in locations that best represent the overall environment and connect them to the microcontroller.
• Light Sensors: Position these to measure the amount of sunlight received by the plants and wire them to the microcontroller.

4. Connect Actuators

• Relay Modules: Connect relay modules to the microcontroller to control the water pumps and automated valves.
• Water Pumps and Valves: Connect the pumps and valves to the relay modules, ensuring secure connections. Install these in the irrigation system with tubing leading to the planter boxes.

5. Wire the Components

• Connect all sensors and actuators to the appropriate pins on the microcontroller, using jumper wires and breadboards if necessary.
• Ensure that power, ground, and signal lines are correctly connected.

6. Set Up the Power Supply

• Install solar panels in an optimal location to capture sunlight.
• Connect solar panels to a charge controller and battery system to provide continuous power.
• Connect the power supply to the microcontroller and other electronic components.

7. Configure the Wi-Fi/Bluetooth Module

• Attach the Wi-Fi/Bluetooth module to the microcontroller.
• Set up network credentials and test connectivity to ensure remote access capabilities.

8. Program the Microcontroller

• Write or upload the control code to the microcontroller, ensuring it reads sensor data, controls the relays, and communicates with the user interface.
• Include logic for automated watering based on soil moisture readings and environmental conditions.

9. Test the System

• Power on the system and check each sensor and actuator for proper operation.
• Simulate different conditions (e.g., dry soil) to test the automated responses of the irrigation system.

10. Install the User Interface

• Configure the mobile app or web dashboard to receive data from the microcontroller.
• Set up notifications and control options, allowing remote monitoring and adjustments.

By following these steps, the electronic assembly of the automated modular plant care system can be completed, ensuring a reliable and efficient operation for maintaining green roofs.

Steps for Electronics Assembly

1. Gather Components

• Arduino/Raspberry Pi, sensors (soil moisture, temperature, humidity, light), relay modules, water pumps, valves, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth module, power supply.

1. Set Up Microcontroller

• Mount in a weatherproof enclosure.
• Connect power supply.

1. Install Sensors

• Place soil moisture sensors in planter boxes.
• Position temperature, humidity, and light sensors.
• Connect all sensors to the microcontroller.

1. Connect Actuators

• Attach relay modules to the microcontroller.
• Connect water pumps and valves to relays and irrigation tubing.

1. Wire Components

• Ensure proper connections (power, ground, signal) between sensors, actuators, and the microcontroller.

1. Power Supply Setup

• Install solar panels and batteries.
• Connect to the microcontroller.

1. Configure Wi-Fi/Bluetooth

• Attach module to the microcontroller.
• Set up and test connectivity.

1. Program Microcontroller

• Upload control code for sensor reading, relay control, and remote communication.
• Test system responses.

1. Install User Interface

• Set up the mobile app/web dashboard for monitoring and control.

If there are any questions on the project, make sure to refer to the FUSION 360 Model (CAD), or contact me at vedpat24@bergen.org

https://grabcad.com/library/planter-box-2