In the heart of Malaysia, a team of researchers has developed a cutting-edge solution that could revolutionize the way we care for plants and manage ecosystems. The AquaFlora Smart Terrarium, a self-sustaining Internet of Things (IoT)-based system, is designed to create and maintain the perfect environment for various plants, offering a glimpse into the future of smart ecosystem management.
The brainchild of A.M.T. Irushan Bandara from MILA University, the AquaFlora Smart Terrarium is a state-of-the-art system that leverages the power of IoT technology. At its core, the system features a network of sensors, actuators, and electronic components, all orchestrated by an ESP32 microcontroller. This microcontroller is the central hub, receiving real-time data from three sensors that monitor soil moisture, temperature, humidity, and light intensity. Based on this data, the system controls four actuators that manage light, humidity, irrigation, and cooling, ensuring optimal conditions for plant growth.
The system’s capabilities are further enhanced by its compatibility with a mobile app and Node-RED, allowing for remote monitoring, control, and automation through Firebase and MQTT. This means that users can keep an eye on their plants and adjust the terrarium’s conditions from anywhere in the world.
The potential commercial impacts of this research on the agriculture sector are substantial. As Bandara explains, “The AquaFlora Smart Terrarium represents a significant innovation in plant care, offering a reliable and automated solution to create and sustain the ideal environment for healthy plant growth.” This could lead to more efficient and productive farming practices, reduced water usage, and improved crop yields.
The system’s effectiveness was demonstrated through a Node-RED visualization of sensor data over a 10-hour period. During this time, the automatic mode of the terrarium maintained stable plant conditions, with soil moisture remaining above 60%, temperature ranging between 30.1°C and 33.1°C, humidity between 69.10% and 74.00%, and light intensity between 23 Lux and 175 Lux.
This research, published in the JOIV: International Journal on Informatics Visualization, not only showcases the potential of IoT technology in plant care but also paves the way for future developments in the field. As we move towards a more automated and better-managed ecosystem gardening, the AquaFlora Smart Terrarium serves as a testament to the power of innovation and technology in shaping the future of agriculture.