A SMART HYDROPONIC KIT FOR SUSTAINABLE HYDROPONIC FARMING

Abstract

ABSTRACT The present disclosure introduces a smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming 100 enabling precise real-time monitoring and control of environmental and nutrient conditions. The system is powered by an ESP32 102 microcontroller and includes a pH sensor 104, TDS/EC Sensor 106, and temperature and humidity sensor DHT11 108 for measuring key parameters such as acidity, nutrient concentration, temperature, and humidity. A 3s battery and BMS 110 with a bulk converter 112 ensures stable power supply, while the power supply 114 offers external recharging capabilities. The kit integrates a user system 116 and a mobile application 118 for user-friendly interaction, along with a database 120, local server 122, and cloud server 124 for data storage and remote access. The data is processed and visualized facilitating informed decision-making and enhancing crop yield efficiency. Reference Fig 2

Specification

Description:A smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present innovation operates in the domain of field of hydroponic farming. More specifically, it pertains to a portable, smart, and sustainable hydroponic kit that enables real-time monitoring and management of hydroponic systems.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Urbanization and industrialization have brought about significant environmental challenges, such as increased pollution, deforestation, and soil degradation, which have severely impacted the availability and quality of arable land. Coupled with a growing global population, these issues have intensified concerns about food security, making it increasingly difficult to meet the rising demand for agricultural produce. Traditional farming methods, which rely on soil-based cultivation, are becoming less viable due to reduced cultivation areas, deteriorating soil conditions, and unpredictable climatic changes.

[0003] In response to these challenges, alternative farming methods like aeroponics, hydroponics, and aquaponics have been explored. Hydroponics, which involves growing plants in a nutrient-rich water medium rather than soil, has gained popularity due to its ability to produce higher yields with less water and in a shorter cultivation cycle. However, despite its advantages, maintaining optimal environmental conditions in a hydroponic setup is complex and requires constant monitoring.

[0004] Existing solutions for managing hydroponic systems include manual monitoring and the use of various standalone sensors to track parameters like temperature, humidity, pH, and nutrient levels. While these methods can be effective, they are labor-intensive, prone to human error, and often require a significant amount of time and expertise to manage effectively. Other high-tech solutions, such as fully automated hydroponic systems, are available but are often prohibitively expensive, complex to set up, and not accessible to small-scale or urban farmers. These challenges create a gap in the market for a solution that is both efficient and accessible.

[0005] The invention of a smart hydroponic kit addresses these challenges by offering a portable, cost-effective, and easy-to-use device that can monitor real-time environmental and agronomic variables within any hydroponic setup. What differentiates this invention from existing options is its integration of multiple sensors into a single, compact device powered by an ESP32 microcontroller, which provides wireless connectivity for remote monitoring. The system continuously updates and transmits data to an IoT platform, allowing users to track and analyze conditions in real time without requiring constant manual intervention. This innovation not only reduces labor costs and the need for specialized knowledge but also ensures more consistent and precise control over the hydroponic environment. The novelty of this invention lies in its combination of portability, ease of use, and real-time monitoring capabilities, making it a valuable tool for sustainable and efficient hydroponic farming in both urban and rural settings.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The primary object of the invention is to provide a portable and compact device for real-time monitoring of environmental and agronomic variables in hydroponic systems.

[0007] Another object of the invention is to enhance the efficiency of hydroponic farming by offering a cost-effective system that reduces the need for constant manual monitoring.

[0008] Another object of the invention is to improve the accuracy and reliability of environmental data collection in hydroponic setups, ensuring optimal growing conditions for crops.

[0009] Another object of the invention is to facilitate remote monitoring of hydroponic farms, allowing farmers to manage their systems from anywhere with an internet connection.

[00010] Another object of the invention is to integrate multiple sensors into a single device, simplifying the setup and operation of hydroponic monitoring systems.

[00011] Another object of the invention is to reduce labor costs and dependency on skilled personnel by automating the collection and analysis of environmental data.

[00012] Another object of the invention is to offer a versatile and adaptable system that can be used in various hydroponic setups, regardless of scale or location.

[00013] Another object of the invention is to promote sustainable farming practices by enabling more precise control over water and nutrient use in hydroponic systems.

[00014] Another object of the invention is to provide a user-friendly interface that allows farmers to easily access and interpret data, leading to better decision-making.

[00015] Another object of the invention is to advance the field of smart agriculture by introducing an innovative tool that combines portability, ease of use, and advanced monitoring capabilities.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[00016] In accordance with the different aspects of the present invention, smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming is presented. It introduces a portable and compact device designed for real-time monitoring of environmental and agronomic variables in hydroponic systems. It integrates multiple sensors, such as temperature, humidity, pH, and EC sensors, into a single unit controlled by an microcontroller with wireless connectivity. This device enables remote monitoring, automates data collection, and improves the accuracy and efficiency of hydroponic farming. The invention promotes sustainable farming practices by offering a cost-effective and user-friendly solution. It is versatile, adaptable, and advances smart agriculture through innovative technology.

[00017] Additional aspects, advantages, features and objects of the present disclosure would be made apparent from the drawings and the detailed description of the illustrative embodiments constructed in conjunction with the appended claims that follow.

[00018] It will be appreciated that features of the present disclosure are susceptible to being combined in various combinations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[00019] The summary above, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present disclosure, exemplary constructions of the disclosure are shown in the drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed herein. Moreover, those in the art will understand that the drawings are not to scale. Wherever possible, like elements have been indicated by identical numbers.

[00020] Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following diagrams wherein:

[00021] FIG. 1 is component wise drawing for smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming.

[00022] FIG. 2 is component wise drawing for smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming

[00023] FIG. 3 is working methodology of smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming.

[00024] FIG. 4 depicts application of smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming


DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[00025] The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present disclosure and ways in which they can be implemented. Although some modes of carrying out the present disclosure have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognise that other embodiments for carrying out or practising the present disclosure are also possible.

[00026] The description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of certain embodiments of smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming and is not intended to represent the only forms that may be developed or utilised. The description sets forth the various structures and/or functions in connection with the illustrated embodiments; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the disclosure that may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale; some features may be exaggerated or minimised to show details of particular components. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention.

[00027] While the disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiment thereof has been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail below. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended to limit the disclosure to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the disclosure.

[00028] The terms "comprises", "comprising", "include(s)", or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a setup, or system that comprises a list of components or steps does not include only those components or steps but may include other components or steps not expressly listed or inherent to such setup or system. In other words, one or more elements in a system or apparatus preceded by "comprises... a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the system or apparatus.

[00029] In the following detailed description of the embodiments of the disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings and which are shown by way of illustration-specific embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The following description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.

[00030] The present disclosure will be described herein below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, well-known functions or constructions are not described in detail since they would obscure the description with unnecessary detail.

[00031] Referring to Fig. 1 and Fig 2, smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming 100 is disclosed, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. It comprises of microcontroller 102, pH sensor 104, TDS/EC Sensor 106, temperature and humidity sensor 108, 3s battery and BMS 110, bulk convertor 112, power supply 114, user system 116, mobile application 118, database 120, local server 122 and cloud server 124.

[00032] Referring to Fig. 1 and Fig 2, the present disclosure provides details of smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming 100 which designed to optimize and simplify the management of hydroponic farming systems. It features a portable and compact device equipped with an ESP32 microcontroller102, providing wireless connectivity for real-time monitoring. The kit integrates essential sensors, including temperature, humidity 102, pH 104, and EC sensors 106, to track critical environmental and agronomic conditions. Data collected from these sensors is transmitted to a cloud platform, enabling remote access and analysis. The system automates data collection, reduces manual intervention, and improves the accuracy of farming decisions. Its user-friendly interface and cost-effective design make it accessible for both small-scale and commercial hydroponic farmers.

[00033] Referring to Fig. 1 , smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming 100 is provided with microcontroller 102. In one of the embodiments, the microcontroller 102 used is ESP32. It is a low-power and economical system on a chip microcontroller that provides both wired and wireless connectivity, including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Its numerous General-Purpose Input/Output (GPIO) pins facilitate easy connection and control of various sensors within the hydroponic setup. The ESP32 microprocessor 102 collects data from the pH sensor 104, TDS/EC Sensor 106, and DHT11 108, and sends this data to the cloud server 124. This data is also accessible via the mobile application 118 for real-time monitoring.

[00034] Referring to Fig. 1, smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming 100 is provided with pH sensor 104. It measures the acidity or alkalinity of the nutrient solution in the hydroponic system. Maintaining the correct pH level is crucial for nutrient uptake by plants. The pH sensor 104 sends its readings to the ESP32 microcontroller 102, which then processes and transmits the data to the database 120 and cloud server 124. This information can be viewed and analyzed using the user system 116 or mobile application 118.

[00035] Referring to Fig. 1, smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming 100 is provided with TDS/EC Sensor 106 It measures the total dissolved solids and electrical conductivity of the nutrient solution, providing an indication of the nutrient concentration. This sensor's data is crucial for ensuring the plants receive the proper amount of nutrients. The TDS/EC Sensor 106 interfaces with the ESP32 microcontroller 102, which relays the data to the local server 122 and cloud server 124 for storage and further analysis. Users can monitor this data through the mobile application 118.

[00036] Referring to Fig. 1, smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming 100 is provided with temperature and humidity sensor 108. In one of the embodiments, DHT11 108 is used as temperature and humidity sensor. It is helps monitor the environmental conditions of the hydroponic setup. By providing real-time data on temperature and humidity, the temperature and humidity sensor 108 ensures that optimal growing conditions are maintained. The sensor data is collected by the microcontroller 102 and transmitted to the database 120 and cloud server 124. This data can be accessed and monitored via the user system 116 and mobile application 118.

[00037] Referring to Fig. 1, smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming 100 is provided with 3s battery and BMS 110 which provides a reliable power source for the hydroponic kit, ensuring uninterrupted operation. The Battery Management System (BMS) protects the battery from overcharging and overdischarging. The 3s battery and BMS 110 supply power to the microcontroller 102 and other components, such as the sensors and the bulk converter 112. This power system is essential for maintaining continuous data monitoring and transmission.

[00038] Referring to Fig. 1, smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming 100 is provided with bulk converter 112. It regulates and converts the power supply from the 3s battery and BMS 110 to the appropriate voltage levels required by the various components, including the microcontroller 102 and sensors. By providing stable and efficient power conversion, the bulk converter 112 ensures that all components operate optimally. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the reliability and performance of the entire hydroponic system.

[00039] Referring to Fig. 1, smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming 100 is provided with power supply 114. It provides an external source of power to recharge the 3s battery and BMS 110 and to power the system when the battery is low. It typically uses a 12-volt 1~2 Amp DC adapter. The power supply 114 ensures that the hydroponic system remains operational even during extended periods of data collection and monitoring. It works in conjunction with the bulk converter 112 to deliver the necessary power to all components.

[00040] Referring to Fig. 1 and Fig 2, smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming 100 is provided with user system 116. It is a computer or terminal that allows users to interact with the hydroponic kit. It provides a graphical user interface for monitoring real-time data collected by the microcontroller 102 and stored in the database 120 and cloud server 124. The user system 116 enables users to configure system settings, view historical data, and receive alerts about any abnormalities in the hydroponic environment.

[00041] Referring to Fig. 1 and Fig 2, smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming 100 is provided with mobile application 118. It provides a convenient way for users to monitor and control the hydroponic system remotely. It receives data from the cloud server 124 and displays real-time sensor readings and alerts. The mobile application 118 also allows users to adjust settings and make decisions based on the data collected from the pH sensor 104, TDS/EC Sensor 106, and temperature and humidity sensor 108. This app enhances the portability and accessibility of the hydroponic kit.

[00042] Referring to Fig. 1 and Fig 2, smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming 100 is provided with database 120. It stores all the sensor data collected by the microcontroller 102. This includes data from the pH sensor 104, TDS/EC Sensor 106, and temperature and humidity sensor 108. The database 120 is essential for historical data analysis, enabling users to track trends and make informed decisions. It works in conjunction with the local server 122 and cloud server 124 to ensure data redundancy and availability.

[00043] Referring to Fig. 1 and Fig 2, smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming 100 is provided with local server 122 which acts as an intermediary between the microcontroller 102 and the cloud server 124. It processes and temporarily stores sensor data before uploading it to the cloud. The local server 122 ensures that data is not lost during transmission and provides a backup in case of connectivity issues. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the reliability and continuity of the data collection process.

[00044] Referring to Fig. 1 and Fig 2, smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming 100 is provided with cloud server 124. In one of the embodiments, cloud server and analysis platform 124 used is ThingSpeak. It provides a centralized platform for storing and accessing sensor data from the hydroponic system. It ensures that data is available to users via the mobile application 118 and user system 116 from anywhere with an internet connection. The cloud server 124 also supports advanced data analysis and integration with other IoT devices and platforms, enhancing the overall functionality and scalability of the hydroponic kit.

[00045] Referring to Fig 3, there is illustrated method 200 for smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming 100. The method comprises:

At step 202, method 200 includes user setting the SSID and password in the ESP32 microcontroller 102 according to the programmed credentials;

At step 204, method 200 includes user activating the mobile hotspot on the mobile application 118 to establish an internet connection;

At step 206, method 200 includes powering on the device using the 3s battery and BMS 110 to initiate the system;

At step 208, method 200 includes ESP32 microcontroller 102 automatically searching for and connecting to the Wi-Fi network;

At step 210, method 200 includes user connecting the pH sensor 104, TDS/EC Sensor 106, and temperature and humidity sensor 108 to their respective ports on the device;

At step 212, method 200 includes sensors collecting real-time environmental and agronomic data;

At step 214, method 200 includes ESP32 microcontroller 102 transmitting the collected sensor data to the cloud server 124 and updation of collected data after every 30 second;

At step 216, method 200 includes storage of data in cloud server for remote monitoring, analysis and for retrieval for further use and reference via database 120 or local server 122;

At step 218, method 200 includes users accessing, reviewing the sensor data via the mobile application 118 or user system 116 and making alternative arrangements in the farm according to the sensor data received.


[00046] Referring to Fig 4, depicts different applications of the smart hydroponics kit for sustainable hydroponic farming 100. In different embodiments, the kit may be used in different applications such as Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) hydroponic setup or Deep Water Culture (DWC) hydroponic setup.

[00047] In the description of the present invention, it is also to be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified or limited, the terms "fixed" "attached" "disposed," "mounted," and "connected" are to be construed broadly, and may for example be fixedly connected, detachably connected, or integrally connected, either mechanically or electrically. They may be connected directly or indirectly through intervening media, or they may be interconnected between two elements. The specific meaning of the above terms in the present invention can be understood in specific cases to those skilled in the art.

[00048] Modifications to embodiments of the present disclosure described in the foregoing are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the accompanying claims. Expressions such as "including", "comprising", "incorporating", "have", "is" used to describe and claim the present disclosure are intended to be construed in a non- exclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components or elements not explicitly described also to be present. Reference to the singular is also to be construed to relate to the plural where appropriate.

[00049] Although embodiments have been described with reference to a number of illustrative embodiments thereof, it should be understood that numerous other modifications and embodiments can be devised by those skilled in the art that will fall within the spirit and scope of the principles of this disclosure. More particularly, various variations and modifications are possible in the component parts and/or arrangements of the subject combination arrangement within the scope of the present disclosure, the drawings and the appended claims. In addition to variations and modifications in the component parts and/or arrangements, alternative uses will also be apparent to those skilled in the art.
, Claims:WE CLAIM:
1. A smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming 100 comprising of
microcontroller 102 to serve as the central processing unit with wireless connectivity for real-time monitoring;
pH sensor 104 to measure the acidity or alkalinity of the nutrient solution;
TDS/EC Sensor 106 to monitor the total dissolved solids and electrical conductivity of the water;
temperature and humidity sensor 108 to provide real-time temperature and humidity data;
3s battery and BMS 110 to supply power and manage battery health;
bulk converter 112 to regulate voltage and ensure stable power supply;
power supply 114 to charge the battery and power the device; user system 116 to enable interaction and control by the user; mobile application 118 to provide remote access to sensor data and device controls;
database 120 to store and manage the collected sensor data; local server 122 to process and analyze data on-site; and
cloud server 124 to enable remote storage, access, and analysis of the data.

2. The smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein microcontroller is configured to transmit sensor data to a cloud-based platform for real-time monitoring and analysis.

3. The smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein data from the sensors is updated and transmitted at regular intervals to enable continuous monitoring
4. The smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein sensors are attachable and detachable from dedicated ports on the device.

5. The smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein mobile application allows remote monitoring and control of the hydroponic system, displaying real-time sensor data and enabling adjustments based on environmental conditions.

6. The smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein microcontroller is configured to collect, process, and transmit data from various sensors comprising of pH sensor, a TDS/EC Sensor, and temperature and humidity sensor to provide real-time data analytics and control, ensuring optimal growth conditions and efficient resource usage in the hydroponic system.

7. The smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein system is provided with database for storing sensor data, a local server for processing and temporary data storage, and a cloud server for centralized storage and remote access to hydroponic system data.

8. The smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein TDS/EC Sensor measures the total dissolved solids and electrical conductivity of the nutrient solution, DHT11 sensor measures temperature and humidity within the hydroponic environment, pH sensor measures the acidity or alkalinity of the nutrient solution and where data is transmitted to the microcontroller ESP32 for analysis and nutrient regulation.

9. The smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein ESP32 microcontroller is powered by a 3s battery and BMS, providing a stable and uninterrupted power supply, and further comprising a bulk converter to regulate voltage levels.

10. The smart hydroponic kit for sustainable hydroponic farming 100 as claimed in claim 1, wherein method comprises of
user setting the SSID and password in the ESP32 microcontroller 102 according to the programmed credentials;

user activating the mobile hotspot on the mobile application 118 to establish an internet connection;

powering on the device using the 3s battery and BMS 110 to initiate the system;

ESP32 microcontroller 102 automatically searching for and connecting to the Wi-Fi network;

user connecting the pH sensor 104, TDS/EC Sensor 106, and temperature and humidity 108 to their respective ports on the device;

sensors collecting real-time environmental and agronomic data;

ESP32 microcontroller 102 transmitting the collected sensor data to the cloud server 124 and updation of collected data after every 30 second;

storage of data in cloud server 124 for remote monitoring, analysis and for retrieval for further use and reference via database 120 or local server 122; and

users accessing, reviewing the sensor data via the mobile application 118 or user system 116 and making alternative arrangements in the farm according to the sensor data received.

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