Project Description: LiteHouse is an innovative, self-sustaining plant system designed to tackle food insecurity in urban areas, where land for farming is becoming increasingly scarce due to rapid population growth. Built within an acrylic house structure that acts as the pot itself, LiteHouse allows people to grow food in small spaces by integrating automation, smart sensors, and efficient energy use to maintain an ideal environment for plant growth.
One of LiteHouse’s key innovations is its automated watering system, which uses a moisture soil sensor to detect dryness. When the soil becomes too dry, a DC water pump and motor activate a sprinkler system to provide the necessary water. In addition to water control, LiteHouse also manages light and climate conditions. A DHT22 sensor tracks temperature and humidity, while a light sensor measures light exposure. An RGB LED indicates light levels by changing color, and UV lights automatically turn on every six hours to support plant nutrition when necessary.
To ensure efficiency,iteHouse uses a Real-Time Clock (RTC), allowing it to make time-based decisions, such as checking soil moisture every three hours or adjusting light exposure. Users can manually activate the sprinkler using an IR sensor button, while an LCD display provides real-time updates on temperature, humidity, and watering status. The system is powered by a rechargeable power bank for the Arduino and a 9V battery for the pump and motor, making it energy-efficient and adaptable to different urban settings.
Designed with tauge (bean sprouts) as an example, LiteHouse provides a sustainable and accessible way for urban residents to grow their own food, reducing reliance on store-bought produce and minimizing food waste. By integrating technology with urban farming, LiteHouse promotes responsible consumption, sustainable food production, and climate-conscious living, making it a practical solution for the future of urban agriculture
Project Theme: Climate Action and Responsible Consumption