Automated Hydroponic

AUTOMATED HYDROPONIC SYSTEM
DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF A SUSTAINABLE AUTOMATED

HYDROPONIC SYSTEM BASED ON ARDUINO AND
INTEGRATED CIRCUITS
Researchers:
Shekinah Elohim C. Chua
Janina Sofia H. Jacinto
Jaymar E. Poñegal
Marco Dave R. Villaruel
Sapang Palay National High School- Senior High School
February 11, 2020

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ABSTRACT
The current issues regarding the decline of available agricultural lands in

the Philippines have led the researchers to design and innovate a vertical
hydroponic system, automated for convenience and productivity.
The researchers first developed the concept prior to the programming
phase in order to have a direction of how they will do the prototype and the
system. They used an Arduino Nano board to serve as the brain of the water
level maintenance and data processing. Then, the researchers constructed the
circuitry through an application called Fritzing and designed the system using
Sketchup. Once the researchers received the materials, prototype assembly was
conducted. To start the coding aspect of the study, the researchers first searched
for codes online and modified it in order to get the desired function of the
prototype. Finally, the researchers tested it to see if it will function well.
The efficacy of the innovated system was tested through the statistical
analysis of the different indicators in plant development: leaf span, shoot height,
the change in leaf span (coined as leaf growth) and change in shoot height
(termed as shoot growth) of mustasa plant (Brassica integrifolia) over the course
of 7 days. The findings reveal that the leaf span, shoot height, and leaf growth of
plants on the developed hydroponic system are significantly greater than those of
the control group. Overall, the system has the potential to be implemented, given
that there is a larger scale study to utilize it and further the reliability and validity
of the findings.
Keywords: Arduino Nano, Fritzing, Mustasa, Prototype, Vertical Hydroponic

System
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
In the completion of this study, we would like to express our deepest
gratitude to those who are always there to help us in order to finish our study.
We would like to thank our principal, Mrs. Florida C. Gonzales in
supporting us to finish our study; to all the teachers for giving us some time
finishing this study; Mr. Ryan Nograles and Mr. Aris Cabalo for giving
information on how to use the microcontroller kit and on how to work with
different codes; and to Mr. Wilson R. Santiago for being our research adviser
who is always there to give us pieces of advice, reminders, and words of
encouragement.
We would also like to thank our family for giving us financial support; and
to Mr. Jaime C. Poñegal for helping us in assembling the device, and for lending
us some equipment to finish our study.
And the last, but not the least, our Almighty God who give us strength,
courage, guidance, protection, knowledge, power, and wisdom to finish our study
from the start until the end.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Abstract……………………………………………………………………………………i
Acknowledgement………………………………………………………...…………….ii
Table of Contents………………………………………………………….…………....iii
CHAPTER 1: PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND
Introduction………………………………………………………………………1
Theoretical Framework……………………………………………………..….3
Research Paradigm……………………………………………………………..6
Statement of the Problem……………………………………….…….…….....7
Assumption………………………………………………………………………7
Hypotheses………………………………………………..……………………..8
Scope and Delimitations………………………………………………………..9
Significance of the Study………………………………………………….…..9
Definition of Terms………………………………………………………..…...10
CHAPTER 2: REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
Hydroponic System……………………………………………………..….…12
Advantages of using Hydroponic System………………………………..….13
Types of System…………………………………………………………….....14
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Nutrient Solution……………………………………………………….…..….16
Microcontroller (MCU)…………………………………………………………17
CHAPTER 3: METHODOLOGY
Research Design……………………………………………………………...18
Research Locale…………………….…………………………………………18
Ethical Consideration in Research…………………………………………19
Methodological Flow Chart………………………………...……...………….20
Planning…………………………………………...……………………………21
Gathering of Materials…………………………………………………………21
Preparation of Setups………………………………………………..………..22
Making of Setups…………………………………………………………..…..23
Experimentation………………………………………………………………..24
Recording of Data……………………………………...………………...……24
Disposal of Materials………………………..…………………………………24
Statistical Treatment…………………………………………………………..25
CHAPTER 4: RESULTS
Hydroponic Setup………………………………………….……..…………..26
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Control Setup………………………………….………………..……….…….29
Comparison between the Setups…………………………………………….31
Statistical Analysis……………………………………………………………..33
CHAPTER 5: DISCUSSION
Discussion………………………………..…………………………………….37
Conclusion……………………………………………………………………..38
Recommendations…………………………………………………………….39
BIBLIOGRAPHY………………………………………………………………………40
APPENDICES
A. Hydroponic System……………………………………………………....43
B. Record Sheet……………………………………………………………...53
C. Codes………………………………………………………………………57
D. Curriculum Vitae………………………………………………………..…62
LIST OF IMAGES
Image 1: Materials for Framing ………………………………………….......43
Image 2: Framing……………………………………………….....…….........43
Image 3: Framing (Close Up)…………………………………………….......43
Image 4: Storage PVC Pipes……………...……………………………........43

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Image 5: Sealing the Storage Pipes……….…………………………..........44
Image 6: Drilling Drainage Hole……..…………………………………........44
Image 7: Connecting of Drainage Pipes…..………………………….….....44
Image 8:Marking for Hole Drilling…..……………………………………......44
Image 9: Inserting Cup for depth Calibration …………………………......45
Image 10: Drilling Holes ……………………………………………………..45
Image 11: Resealing Container Pipes………………………………..........46
Image 12: Stabilizing the Pipe’s Position………………………………….46
Image 13: Hydroponic System……………….………………………….......47
Image 14: Transporting the Hydroponic System to Jacinto Residence. .47
Image 15: Pouring Water to Detect Leakage…….…………………...........48
Image 16: Resealing to Prevent Leakage………………………………......48
Image 17: Testing Electronic Components.…………………………….......49
Image 18: Germination...…………………………………………...…….......49
Image 19: Mixing the Setup Hydroponic Solution to the 45L Water……..50
Image 20: Inserting the Cups with Seedling in the Hydroponic System..50
Image 21: Controlled Set-Up……………………………..…………………..51
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Image 22: Day 7 of Hydroponic Set-Up…………………………………….51
Image 23: Day 7 of Controlled Set-Up……………………………………...52
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1: Research Paradigm………………..……………………………......6
Figure 2: Methodological Flow Char………………...…………………....... 20
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1: Pin Connections………………………………………….…………23
Table 2: Shoot growth (cm) of mustard in hydroponic system ……........ 26
Table 3: Leaf growth (cm) of mustard in hydroponic system................... 27
Table 4: Shoot growth (cm) of mustard in the control setup………………29
Table 5: Leaf growth (cm) of mustard in the control setup …………..…..30
Table 6: Summary of results ……………………………………….…...…...32
Table 7: t-Test on shoot growth with alpha value = 0.01…………….......33
Table 8: t-Test on leaf growth with alpha value = 0.01…………………….34
Table 9: t-Test on average height with alpha value = 0.01………….…….35
Table 10: t-Test on average leaf span with alpha value = 0.01…………..36
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Chapter 1
PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND
This chapter tackles the main problem the researchers want to solve. It
includes concepts and theories that support the study. It also presents the
background and the significance of the study.
Introduction
Philippines is well known as an agricultural country that heavily depends
on the said field to meet the basic needs of its countrymen. Now, industrialization
and globalization have entered the economic scene, causing a decline of
available planting fields as they get converted into shopping malls, industrial
areas and subdivisions. This also leads to a decrease in the crop production
which affects the profit of local farmers (Philstar, 2018 ).
The aforementioned problem reveals a need to develop and introduce the
use of vertical hydroponic system to local farmers which can nullify the need for
viable lands to plant on. There are different hydroponic plants to choose from and
various types of planting media such as rockwell, sponge, coconut and other
coconut powder to plant on. In taking care of plants in a hydroponic system, it is
very important to consider the timing of adding water and maintaining the nutrient
concentration, having a lot of plants to cultivate makes it more inconvenient to do
so. To maintain hydration of a huge number of plants, an automatic system is
essential to maintain the water level of a whole system. With the growing
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scientific community, more information available online and open source codes,
one can program a microcontroller to fabricate an automatic watering system
would be easy to do. The concept of Arduino programming is to be utilized to fill
the said gap. The researchers will take advantage of the analog pins of an
Arduino Nano board to sense the water level through the use of probs or header
pins. Nano will serve as the brain of the tool connected to a VDC relay and
LM317 module which turns on the 12 V water pump on a hydroponic solution
reservoir when the level is too low and turns it off when the maximum level is
reached. The water level will be displayed on the Liquid Crystal Display (LCD).
The main purpose of this study is to design and develop an automated
hydroponic system based on Arduino with Integrated Circuits (IC) to maintain
water levels on the system while notifying the administrator or the farmers about
the condition of the system.
The automated hydroponic system to be constructed by the proponents
will be comprised mainly of an Arduino module and ICs. The project can be of
great help to farmers in growing crops without using large space for farming and
not spending too much time and giving effort to maintain the systems since it is
automated . This innovation will be a useful reference for the future researchers
who would plan to make a similar study. This may also encourage them to
possibly look for other applications of Arduino.
The planning and concept development of the device will be conducted at
Sapang Palay National High School (SPNHS). Despite not being located on the
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center of the city, SPNHS is one of the largest schools in San Jose del Monte
with over 8 hectares of land. Since its construction in 1971 ("The Birth of
SPNHS”, 2006), the school has continued to develop and grow to cater the
expanding population of the city.
The school added Grade 11 and Grade 12 last 2016 and since then, the
school's population grew larger. Facilities were also built to satisfy the needs of
the different subjects of the senior high school. For example, SPNHS has 3
laboratories: one for biology, for chemistry, and for physics, all of which are well
equipped depending on the requirements of the subject.
The device will be constructed in San Rafael I, Area H, San Jose del
Monte City, Bulacan. Specifically, the hydroponic system will be constructed at
Jacinto residence.
Theoretical Framework
Arduino is an accessible and user-friendly open-source platform that uses
microcontrollers, the Arduino programming language, and the Arduino Software
to produce an output. It is globally used by students, professional, and
programmers to create both simple and complex projects, and share knowledge
that they have discovered to with own community. (Arduino, 2019)
According to Rouse (2017), a microcontroller is an accessible integrated
circuit designed to administer a specific task in an embedded system without
further use other computer components. It typically has a processor, memory,
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and input and output peripherals. Most of the time, microcontrollers are found in
complex projects such as robots and medical devices, to simple mobile radios
and home appliances. However, microcontrollers are different from
microprocessors. A microcontroller can be defined, in its simplest term, as an
independent computer, designed to perform specific tasks. Microprocessors only
have CPUs but not RAM, ROM, and other peripheral since they need a wider
resource for them to perform unspecific tasks. (Choudhary, 2019)
Sensors are used to detect or respond to stimuli (e.g. heat, light, motion,
pressure, etc.) by converting an input from the physical world into a form which
can then be displayed to be read or be transmitted for further processing. Some
of the sensors include: thermometers, oxygen sensors in cars, motion sensors in
several home systems, and photosensors. (Rouse, 2012)
In some literature, Hydroponic is one of the best alternatives for plants on
narrow land. There have been several papers published in several journals in
hydroponic systems in recent years; they suggest how hydroponic plant systems
work. To supply hydroponic plant nutrients is very appropriate if done by using
microprocessors for nutrient control. (Velazquez et al.,2013)
Another paper is the development of an automatic microcontroller system
for Deep Water Culture (DWC), this paper provides a basic idea of hydroponic
water culture. This paper also discusses the methodology used to measure pH
values of the sensors and also maintains water levels in hydroponic reservoirs
(Noor,2013).
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The other work related to this project is control and monitoring of plants in
real time by Dan Wang, Jinling Zhao, Linsheng Huang, Deheng Xu in 2015. This
research focuses on monitoring the data of aquaponic plants which will be sent to
smartphones through the internet. Next are works about automatic addition of
nutrients made by Rajeev Lochan Mishra and Preet Jain in 2015 which uses
electrodes as a benchmark of the amount of nutrients. Related works about
automatic plant watering has been performed by Devika et al, and the setup
includes plant grown on a soil with a humidity sensor to detect the soil moisture
level and react accordingly (if the soil is dry, the system will automatically do the
watering.)
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Research Paradigm
INDEPENDENT VARIABLE DEPENDENT VARIABLE
 Position of the set-up  Condition of the

 Amount of light hydroponic system and
received water level.
 Concentration of the  Speed of Growth
solution  Leaf color
 Type of seeds to be  Number of harvested
planted plants.
Figure one shows the independent variables and dependent variables
present in this study. First, the arrangement of the specific parts will affect the
condition of the system and is anticipated to lessen the maintenance of water
level. The amount of light received, a mediating variable will depend on the
position of the system and will affect the growth speed of plants. Then, the
concentration of the solution will be a factor affecting the leaf color as it also
changes the pH level of the water. The type of seeds to be planted will also affect
the survival of plants prior to the system and will consequently affect the number
of harvested plants.
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Statement of the Problem
This study entitled “Design and Development of a Sustainable Automated
Hydroponic System based on Arduino and Integrated Circuits”, is an attempt to
adapt with the loss of agricultural lands while promoting the growth and the
quality of crops planted in a hydroponic system. It seeks to answer the question,
“Can the automated hydroponic system maintain and sustain the growth of
plants?”
Specifically, it seeks to answer the following questions:
1. Is the system easy to use and durable?
2. Can the system be constructed using inexpensive and available
materials?
3. Will the system stand on a long period of time?
4. Is there a significant difference in plant growth on the system and on the
soil? If there is, which is better?
Assumption
The basis of this study is a similar innovation, an Arduino mega 2560
automated flowing hydroponic system, which ensures a healthy environment for
plants and promotes their growth from the shoots to the leafage. Having assured
how the project may turnout, the researchers assume that this study entitled
“Design and Development of a Sustainable Automated Hydroponic System
based on Arduino and Integrated Circuits” will succeed accomplishing the
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following: Have a light-sufficient area for the set-up, maintain the concentration of
the hydroponic nutrient to be used, & control the water level suspending the roots
of the plants.
Hypotheses
1. Ho: The leaf growth of plants on an Arduino based Hydroponic System is
less than or equal to that of the plants on a fertilized soil.
Ha: The leaf growth of plants on an Arduino based Hydroponic System is
greater than that of the plants on a fertilized soil.
2. Ho: The shoot growth of plants on an Arduino based Hydroponic System
is less than or equal to that of the plants on a fertilized soil.
Ho: The shoot growth of plants on an Arduino based Hydroponic System
is greater than that of the plants on a fertilized soil.
3. Ho: The leaf span of plants on an Arduino based Hydroponic System is
less than or equal to that of the plants on a fertilized soil.
Ha: The leaf span of plants on an Arduino based Hydroponic System is
4. Ho: The height of plants on an Arduino based Hydroponic System is less
than or equal to that of the plants on a fertilized soil.
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Ha: The height of plants on an Arduino based Hydroponic System is
Scope and Delimitations
Due to climate change, the availability of cultivable land is decreasing day
by day. So, an alternative way of cultivation is needed to overcome the situation.
Hydroponic gives people that opportunity to cope with the environmental change.
Automated hydroponic can be the best alternative for farmers to cultivate. It
consists of Arduino Nano ATmega328 and different ICs to measure water level,
to be designed and developed by the researchers. It will be conducted from
November 2019 until February 2020.
The system delimits its parameters for plant growth that were only
monitored and not controlled. The researchers will build a small system that is
not suitable in large scale farming. Root crops like potato, onion, radish etc.
cannot be planted in a hydroponic. Specifically, mustasa plant (Brassica
integrifolia) is to be used for the experimentation as it grows relatively quick.
Significance of the Study
The results of this study will be a great benefit to the following:
Students. The result will provide the students with knowledge on how to use the
Arduino module and how to modify codes. This may also inspire them to possibly
look for other application of Arduino.
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Consumers. The data result can be a great help to the owners of hydroponic
systems to efficiently monitor their crops with less effort.
Community. The implementation of a successful device can encourage the local
people to have a sustainable hydroponic system just in their backyard. They
won’t also have to often buy their veggies from the market.
Future Researchers. This research will be a useful reference for the future
researchers who would plan to make a similar study.
Definition of Terms
Arduino is an accessible and user-friendly open-source platform that uses
microcontrollers, the Arduino programming language, and the Arduino Software
to produce an output. It is globally used by students, professional, and
programmers to create both simple and complex projects, and share knowledge
that they have discovered to with own community.
Hydroponic System is a system in which farmers cultivate different plants
without utilizing the soil.
Hydroponics is a method of growing plants in water based nutrient rich solution.
Hydroponics does not use soil; instead the root system is supported using an
inert medium such as perlite, rockwool, clay pellets, peat moss, or vermiculite.
The basic premise behind hydroponics is to allow the plants roots to come in
direct contact with the nutrient solution, while also having access to oxygen,
which is essential for proper growth.
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Microcontroller is an accessible integrated circuit designed to administer a
specific task in an embedded system without further use other computer
components.
Sensors are used to detect or respond to stimuli (e.g. heat, light, motion,
pressure, etc.) by converting an input from the physical world into a form which
can then be displayed to be read or be transmitted for further processing.
Nutrient solution is a carefully proportioned liquid fertilizer used
in hydroponic gardening.
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Chapter 2
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES
The literature and studies cited in this chapter tackles about the different
understanding, ideas, concept, generalization, conclusions and different
development related to Hydroponic System. Those that were also included in this
chapter helps in familiarizing information that are relevant and similar to the
present study.
Hydroponic System
Hydroponics comes from the roots “hydro”, meaning water, and “ponos”,
meaning labor, a method of gardening which does not use soil. The earliest
examples of hydroponics date back to the Hanging Gardens of Babylon and the
Floating Gardens of China. Humans used these techniques thousands of years
ago. Although the general theory behind hydroponics remains the same, modern
technology has enabled us to grow plants faster, stronger, and healthier (Epic
Gardening, 2019)
Furthermore, nutrient rich solution is used to provide nutrition for the
plants as a replacement to soil. The root system is supported using an inert
medium such as perlite, rockwool, clay pellets, peat moss, or vermiculite. As
emphasized by the Greenhouse Company (2019), the basic premise behind
hydroponics is to allow the plants roots to come in direct contact with the nutrient
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solution, while also having access to oxygen, which is essential for proper
growth.
The earliest modern reference to hydroponics (last 100 years) was by a
man named William Frederick Gericke. While working at the University of
California, Berkeley, he began to popularize the idea that plants could be grown
in a solution of nutrients and water instead of soil. He proved the feasibility of this
concept by growing 25-foot high tomato vines using only water and nutrients, and
decided to call this growing method hydroponics. The results of Gericke’s
experiment with tomatoes prompted further research into the field, including the
work done by University of California scientists, who uncovered a great deal of
benefits related to soilless plant cultivation. (Epic Gardening, 2019).
Advantages of Using Hydroponic System
One of the most significant strength hydroponics has over soil growing is
water conservation. When growing plants in soil, a grower has to be very
experienced to know how much water to give his plants. Too much and the
plant’s roots are not able to get enough oxygen. Too little and the plant can dry
out and die. Hydroponics solves this problem in two different ways according to
Espiritu (2019). First, the water reservoir can be constantly oxygenated, making
sure that the plant’s roots obtain the optimum level of oxygen. Additionally, the
problem of watering is solved by the fact that the plant’s root system no longer
has soil surrounding that blocks oxygen uptake by the roots (Tellez, 2014).
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Espiritu (2019) added that the final major benefit of hydroponics is the
amount of control a grower has over the environment. Pests and diseases are
much easier to deal with – your environment is often times portable and raised
off the ground. This makes it hard for bugs to reach your plants. Any soil-related
diseases are completely written off in hydroponics as well. Lastly, you are able to
control the amount of nutrients provided to your plant precisely, saving on
nutrition costs.
Types of System
Having an active system, NFT is used commercially for it is good for short
harvest crops. In addition, no timer is required in this system and nutrient solution
is in constant flow which is pumped from the reservoir to the grow tray. The grow
tray is built with sufficient slope to allow solution to trickle down tray and not flood
the tray. Consequently, nutrients are recycled back to the reservoir
(Morganthaler,2017).
The water culture system is the simplest of all active hydroponic systems.
The platform that holds the plants is usually made of Styrofoam and floats
directly on the nutrient solution. An air pump supplies air to the air stone that
bubbles the nutrient solution and supplies oxygen to the roots of the plants.
Water culture is the system of choice for growing leaf lettuce, which are fast
growing water-loving plants, making them an ideal choice for this type of
hydroponic system. Very few plants other than lettuce will do well in this type of
system. Morganthaler (2017) stressed that this type of hydroponic system is
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great for the classroom and is popular with teachers, since a very inexpensive
system can be made out of an old aquarium or other water tight container.
The Ebb and Flow system works by temporarily flooding the grow tray with
nutrient solution and then draining the solution back into the reservoir. This action
is normally done with a submerged pump that is connected to a timer. When the
timer turns the pump on nutrient solution is pumped into the grow tray. When the
timer shuts the pump off the nutrient solution flows back into the reservoir. The
Timer is set to come on several times a day, depending on the size and type of
plants, temperature and humidity and the type of growing medium used.
The said system is a versatile one that can be used with a variety of
growing mediums. The entire grow tray can be filled with Grow Rocks, gravel or
granular Rockwool. Many prefer using individual pots filled with growing medium,
which makes it easier to move plants around or even move them in or out of the
system. One major downside of this based on Morganthaler’s research (2017) is
that with some types of growing medium (Gravel, Growrocks, Perlite), there is a
vulnerability to power outages as well as pump and timer failures. In addition, the
roots can dry out quickly when the watering cycles are interrupted. This problem
can be amended somewhat by using growing media that retains more water
including Rockwool, vermiculite, coconut fiber or a good soilless mix like Pro-mix
or Faffard’s.
Drip systems are probably the most widely used type of hydroponic
system in the world. Operation is simple, a timer controls a submersed pump.

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The timer turns the pump on and nutrient solution is dripped onto the base of
each plant by a small drip line. In a Recovery Drip System, the excess nutrient
solution that runs off is collected back in the reservoir for re-use. The Non-
Recovery System does not collect the run off. A recovery system uses nutrient
solution a bit more efficiently, as excess solution is reused, this also allows for
the use of a more inexpensive timer because a recovery system doesn’t require
precise control of the watering cycles. The non-recovery system needs to have a
more precise timer so that watering cycles can be adjusted to insure that the
plants get enough nutrient solution and the runoff is kept to a minimum. The non-
recovery system requires less maintenance due to the fact that the excess
nutrient solution isn’t recycled back into the reservoir, so the nutrient strength and
pH of the reservoir will not vary. This means that you can fill the reservoir with pH
adjusted nutrient solution and then forget it until you need to mix more. A
recovery system can have large shifts in the pH and nutrient strength levels that
require periodic checking and adjusting (Morganthaler, 2017).
Nutrient Solution
As described by Merino (2012), a nutrient solution is the sole source of
nutrients to the plant. Concentrated already has nutrients added to it. Soluble
forms of these nutrients are available in different mixes. Nutrient Reservoir is
where the nutrient solution is kept before it is fed to the plants. The container can
be a plastic or glass that has the ability to hold large amounts of water. Avoid
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metallic materials it can damage plants. It should be covered to reduce
evaporation, algae growth. Keep the nutrient temperature between 55°‐60°F.
Microcontroller (MCU)
According to Blacharski (2007), a microcontroller is very much like a
computer-on-a-chip used to control electronic devices. A microcontroller can be
differentiated from a microprocessor although both of them have the same
characteristics. A microprocessor is a general-purpose chip that is used to create
a multi-function computer or device and requires multiple chips to handle various
tasks. A microcontroller is meant to be more self-contained and independent, and
functions as a tiny, dedicated computer.
Furthermore, Brain (2006) explained that a microcontroller is an integrated
chip that is often part of an embedded system. The microcontroller is consisting
of a CPU, RAM, ROM, I/O ports, and timers on a single chip jut like a standard
computer, and they are designed to execute only a single specific task to control
a single system.
Blacharski (2007) added that there are multiple architectures used in
manufacturing these chips, but the predominant architecture is CISC (Complex
Instruction Set Computer), which allows the microcontroller to contain multiple
control instructions that can be executed with a single macro instruction.
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Chapter 3
METHODOLOGY
This chapter presents the project design, project development, operation
and testing, and the evaluation procedure that the researchers will accomplish to
better understand and develop further the automated hydroponic system
prototype. The main goal was to create the aforementioned system that is
suitable for urban farming; therefore, should be compact, low maintenance, and
cost effective.
Research Design
Experimental Research Design was used in this project to address the
perennial problem of decreasing area of land available for planting by innovating
an Arduino-based Hydroponic System. The experimentation aims to show the
presence or absence of a statistical difference between growth of plants on a
normal setting (soil) and on the said system. Arduino programming is utilized to
provide ease in managing and monitoring which will be evaluated later in the
study.
Research Locale
The planning and concept development of the device were conducted at
Sapang Palay National High School (SPNHS). Despite not being located on the
center of the city, SPNHS is one of the largest schools in San Jose del Monte
with over 8 hectares of land. Since its construction in 1971 ("The Birth of
26
SPNHS”, 2006), the school has continued to develop and grow to cater the
expanding population of the city.
The school added Grade 11 and Grade 12 last 2016 and since then, the
school's population grew larger. Facilities were also built to satisfy the needs of
the different subjects of the senior high school. For example, SPNHS has three
laboratories: one for biology, for chemistry, and for physics, all of which are well
equipped depending on the requirements of the subject.
Construction, setting up and experimentation were conducted at Jacinto
residence, San Rafael I, Area H, San Jose del Monte City, Bulacan.
Ethical Consideration in Research
With regards to ethics, certain measures are done to conform to the rules
and regulations of research, consider environmental factors, and ensure safety
for the researchers. First, no vertebrates, hazardous chemicals, or invasive
procedures were involved in the construction and experimentation. Though the
seeds and hydroponic solution used are safe, the proponents still used personal
protective equipment and took safety precautions. Then, the researchers asked
the supervision of an electrician for the development phase specially when
dealing with electronic devices and circuits that comprise the device. Lastly, the
researchers asked Mrs. Celerina A. Herrera’s consent beforehand for the land
area used at the setting indicated above.
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Flow Chart
Concept Development Phase
Definition Phase
Design Phase
Software Hardware
Planning and Design Planning and Design
Hardware Compatibility
Programming and Testing
Interfacing and Testing Phase
System Test Phase
Arduino-Operated Hydroponic System
Figure 2: Methodological Flow Chart
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Planning
Every project is based on an idea of concept that involves solution to a
certain problem or a need to fill a gap, to improve, to meet a certain requirement,
or simply to create something that has not been created before. It begins with the
concept development phase. Definition of concepts and terms comes after. Then,
the proponents consulted experts in Arduino technology on how to achieve the
connectivity they are aiming for particularly in the design phase.
Antecedent to the software phase, the researchers are to utilize their prior
knowledge in programming to fabricate the device in line with their envisioned
goal. In addition, proper positioning, wiring and sensors are also required to
realize the hardware phase. After multiple troubleshooting, the device can
already be set-up and finally be planted with select crops. Next, the
experimentation shall be done by comparing the growth of Mustasa in the
proposed system and a control setup. Data analysis using statistical tools
follows. Lastly, inferences are generated from the results as well as evaluation of
the device.
Gathering of Materials
The Arduino Nano and jumper wires, were all bought from Sparkfruit
Electronics located on its Manila Branch. The Bluetooth module and LM317
Module were bought on Lazada online. The breadboard and LCD were available
resources that the researchers took advantage of. Other materials such as seeds
29
and nutrient solution are to be ordered online, typically when the system is
already prepared. Pipes, support, and media for planting are to be improvised.
Preparation of setups
Arduino IDE was installed on the laptop to be used in the programming of
the device. To make sure the IDE is working properly, the researchers used a
green LED and made it light up using the default sketch “Blink” in Arduino IDE.
void setup() {
// initialize digital pin LED_BUILTIN as an output.
pinMode(LED_BUILTIN, OUTPUT);
// the loop function runs over and over again forever
void loop() {
digitalWrite(LED_BUILTIN, HIGH); // turn the LED on (HIGH is the voltage
level)
delay(1000); // wait for a second
digitalWrite(LED_BUILTIN, LOW); // turn the LED off by making the voltage
LOW
delay(1000); // wait for a second
30
Preliminary troubleshooting of codes is done before as a preparation
before framework, germination, adding the nutrient solution to the water, and
planting seedlings in order to ensure the success of the experimentation.
Making the setups
The researchers attached the Arduino Nano with its USB port facing the
edge of the breadboard for easy connection and access. The researchers
ARDUINO NANO PINS SENSOR PINS
followed the instruction from a demonstration of Easy Home-Made Projects
5V VIN
(EMP, 2017).
A5 SCL
A4 SDA
GND GND
To create a low-maintenance system for the experimental setup, selected
parameters such as lighting and ventilation were controlled through setting up the
system properly. Moreover, placing the system outdoors reduces the need for
controlling the lighting conditions but makes maintenance a problem especially
for pest and weather issues. Lastly, for a system to be cost effective, a stagnant
Table 1: Pin Connections
hydroponic system was implemented to reduce the cost of fully controlling the
conditions while still producing high quality yields. For a small system that will be
used for personal or residential purposes, fully automating the system is not
practical due to the relatively small plant capacity. Therefore, for this system,
31
parameters for plant growth were only monitored and not controlled. The control
setup on the other hand consists of fertilized soil where in the plants are regularly
watered.
Experimentation
There are two set-ups; the first set-up is the proposed hydroponic system
with the device that includes different sensors in maintaining the water level, the
second is the control set-up were the mustard is only planted in soil. For seven
days the two set-ups were observed particularly if the device worked correctly.
The water level was also observed during the experimentation through the help
of the proposed device. After seven days the growth of the mustard from the two
set-ups were compared to prove if there are differences.
Recording of Data
The researchers planted the seeds and observed the growth of the plants.
On a span of seven days, the leaf span, shoot height, the change in leaf span
(coined as leaf growth) and change in shoot height (termed as shoot growth) of
the plants were measured using a ruler. Then, data were recorded in Microsoft
Excel to perform the statistical treatment needed.
Disposal of Materials
The materials used are kept in an inventory for future use, while the plants
are harvested for consumption. The Arduino Nano, sensors and other devices
are kept and reset so that it can be used for future Arduino based projects.
32
Environmental factors were also considered in the disposal of the materials to
prevent land and water pollution in particular.
Statistical Treatment
The independent t-test, also called the two sample t-test, independent-
samples t-test or student's t-test, is an inferential statistical test that determines
whether there is a statistically significant difference between the means in two
unrelated groups. The proponents utilized this in order to determine if there exists
a significant difference between their proposed hydroponic system and a soil
setup in terms of nourishing mustasa plants (Brassica integrifolia) in line with the
four aforementioned parameters.
33
Chapter 4
RESULTS
This section of the research paper reports the findings of the study based
upon the information gathered during the experimentation and the methodology
described in the previous chapter. Specifically, it includes the logical
presentation, data analysis, and interpretation of the variables previously
mentioned in the paper: shoot growth and leaf span of mustard, in an
experimental setup (automated hydroponic system) and a counterpart control
setup (planted in soil).
Hydroponic Setup
Plant Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5 Day 6 Day 7 Growth Average
A 1.3 1.5 1.7 2 2 2.2 2.3 1 1.857
B 1.8 2.1 2.3 2.6 2.8 2.9 3 1.2 2.500
C 1.5 1.8 2.1 2.3 2.5 2.7 2.8 1.3 2.242
D 1.9 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.4 2.6 0.7 2.271
E 1.7 2 2.3 2.6 2.7 2.8 3 1.3 2.442
F 2.1 2.3 2.5 2.8 3 3.2 3.3 1.2 2.742
G 1.3 1.7 2 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.4 1.1 2.043
H 1.4 1.8 2.1 2.1 2.3 2.5 2.5 1.1 2.100
I 1.3 1.6 2 2.2 2.3 2.3 2.5 1.2 2.029
J 1.7 2.1 2.3 2.5 2.6 2.8 2.8 1.1 2.400
K 1.8 2.4 2.6 2.9 3 3.1 3.3 1.5 2.729
L 1.6 2 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.5 2.6 1 2.186

34
M 1.4 1.8 2 2.1 2.2 2.4 2.5 1.1 2.057
N 2 2.3 2.5 2.7 2.7 2.9 3.1 1.1 2.600
O 1.7 2 2.3 2.5 2.5 2.6 2.7 1 2.329
P 1.8 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.6 2.8 2.8 1 2.414
Q 1.9 2.5 2.7 3 3.1 3.1 3.2 1.3 2.786
R 1.7 2 2.1 2.2 2.2 2.4 2.4 0.7 2.143
S 1.6 2.1 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 0.9 2.171
T 1.5 2 2.2 2.5 2.6 2.8 3.1 1.6 2.386
U 1.7 1.9 2.1 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 0.9 2.214
V 1.3 1.4 1.6 1.8 2 2.2 2.4 1.1 1.814
W 1.7 2.1 2.3 2.5 2.6 2.9 3 1.3 2.443
X 2 2.4 2.6 3 3.1 3.2 3.4 1.4 2.814
Table 2: Shoot growth (cm) of mustard in hydroponic system
The table above indicates the height in cm of the 24 mustard seedlings
planted on the hydroponic system that served as the experimental subjects. The
observation was conducted a week after the germination of the said seedlings
and done for seven consecutive days. The growth ranges from 0.7 cm – 1.6 cm
while the average height ranges from 1.8 cm – 2.8 cm.
A 0.5 0.9 1.4 1.7 2 2.4 2.8 2.3 1.671
B 0.6 1.2 1.7 2.3 2.6 3 3.3 2.7 2.100
C 0.6 0.9 1.5 1.8 2.2 2.6 3 2.4 1.800

35
D 0.8 1.3 1.7 2 2.2 2.7 3.2 2.4 1.986
E 0.7 1.1 1.6 1.8 2.3 2.5 2.8 2.1 1.829
F 0.6 0.9 1.4 1.7 1.8 2.3 2.5 1.9 1.600
G 1 1.3 1.5 1.8 2.2 2.3 2.6 1.6 1.814
H 0.4 0.7 1.1 1.4 1.8 2 2.4 2 1.400
I 0.8 1.2 1.6 1.9 2.2 2.5 2.9 2.1 1.871
J 0.6 1 1.3 1.8 2.4 2.8 3.2 2.6 1.871
K 0.7 1.1 1.5 1.7 2.4 2.6 3.1 2.4 1.871
L 0.7 1.1 1.3 1.9 2.3 2.4 2.6 1.9 1.757
M 0.5 0.8 1.2 1.7 2.2 2.7 3 2.5 1.729
N 0.9 1.3 1.6 1.7 1.9 2.2 2.7 1.8 1.757
O 1 1.3 1.5 1.7 2.3 2.5 2.8 1.8 1.871
P 0.8 1.1 1.5 1.8 2.3 2.5 2.7 1.9 1.814
Q 0.7 1 1.4 1.6 2 2.6 3 2.3 1.757
R 0.7 1.2 1.6 2 2.5 2.7 3.2 2.5 1.986
S 0.4 0.7 1.2 1.7 2.3 2.9 3.2 2.8 1.771
T 0.6 0.9 1.4 1.8 2.3 2.7 3 2.4 1.814
U 0.7 1.1 1.5 1.9 2.2 2.4 2.7 2 1.786
V 0.8 1.2 1.5 1.9 2.1 2.5 2.7 1.9 1.814
W 0.5 0.8 1.3 1.6 1.9 2.5 2.9 2.4 1.643
X 0.9 1.1 1.3 1.4 1.8 2.4 2.6 1.7 1.643
Table 3: Leaf growth (cm) of mustard in hydroponic system
36
The table above indicates the leaf span in cm of the 24 mustard seedlings
planted on the hydroponic system that served as the experimental subjects. The
observation was conducted a week after the germination of the said seedlings
and done for seven consecutive days. The growth ranges from 1.6 cm – 2.8 cm
while the average length ranges from 1.4 cm – 2.1 cm.
Control Setup
A 1.2 1.3 1.5 1.7 1.9 1.9 2 0.8 1.643
B 1.6 1.6 1.8 1.9 2 2.1 2.3 0.7 1.9
C 1.3 1.5 1.8 2.3 2.5 2.7 3 1.7 2.157
D 1.4 1.6 1.8 1.9 2.2 2.4 2.6 1.2 1.986
E 1.9 2.2 2.3 2.5 2.5 2.7 2.8 0.9 2.414
F 1.8 1.9 2.2 2.2 2.4 2.5 2.5 0.7 2.214
G 1.4 1.4 1.6 1.7 2 2.1 2.3 0.9 1.786
H 1.3 1.5 1.6 1.9 2.2 2.5 2.7 1.4 1.957
I 1.8 1.9 2.1 2.4 2.4 2.5 2.6 0.8 2.243
J 1.5 1.7 1.9 2 2.2 2.3 2.4 0.9 2
K 1.9 2 2 2.1 2.2 2.4 2.4 0.5 2.143
L 1.5 1.8 1.9 2 2.1 2.2 2.4 0.9 1.986
M 1.4 1.4 1.6 1.9 2.2 2.3 2.6 1.2 1.914
N 1.6 1.7 1.9 2 2.3 2.4 2.5 0.9 2.057
O 1.4 1.5 1.7 1.9 2.1 2.2 2.4 1 1.886
P 1.3 1.5 1.8 2.3 2.5 2.6 2.8 1.5 2.114
37
Q 1.7 1.8 1.9 2.2 2.6 2.7 3 1.3 2.271
R 1.5 1.7 1.9 2.1 2.2 2.5 2.6 1.1 2.071
S 1.6 1.8 1.9 2 2.1 2.2 2.4 0.8 2
T 1.4 1.6 1.7 1.9 2 2.3 2.4 1 1.9
U 2 2.2 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.5 0.5 2.3
V 1.7 1.9 2 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 0.8 2.143
W 1.4 1.6 1.7 1.7 1.9 2 2.2 0.8 1.786
X 1.6 1.7 1.9 1.9 2 2.2 2.4 0.8 1.957
Table 4: Shoot growth (cm) of mustard in the control setup
The table above indicates the height in cm of the 24 mustard seedlings
planted on the soil that served as the control. The observation was conducted a
week after the germination of the said seedlings and done for seven consecutive
days. The growth ranges from 0.5 cm – 1.7 cm while the average length ranges
from 1.6 cm – 2.4 cm.
A 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.6 0.7 0.3 0.514
B 0.7 0.8 0.8 0.9 0.9 0.9 1 0.3 0.857
C 0.6 0.6 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.8 0.9 0.3 0.714
D 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.6 0.6 0.3 0.486
E 0.7 0.7 0.8 0.8 0.9 0.9 0.9 0.2 0.814
F 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1 1 1.1 0.5 0.871
G 0.7 0.8 0.8 0.9 0.9 1 1 0.3 0.871
H 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.6 0.6 0.7 0.7 0.2 0.586

38
I 0.8 0.9 1 1 1 1.1 1.1 0.3 0.986
J 1 1.1 1.3 1.4 1.4 1.5 1.6 0.6 1.329
K 0.7 0.8 0.8 0.9 0.9 0.9 0.9 0.2 0.843
L 0.6 0.6 0.7 0.7 0.8 0.9 0.9 0.3 0.743
M 0.5 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.7 0.8 0.8 0.3 0.657
N 0.6 0.6 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.8 0.8 0.2 0.7
O 0.9 1 1 1.1 1.2 1.2 1.3 0.4 1.1
P 0.7 0.8 0.8 0.9 0.9 1 1 0.3 0.871
Q 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.5 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.3 0.5
R 0.5 0.6 0.6 0.6 0.7 0.7 0.8 0.3 0.643
S 0.4 0.5 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.8 0.4 0.614
T 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.7 0.8 0.3 0.614
U 0.7 0.8 0.8 0.9 1 1 1.1 0.4 0.9
V 0.6 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.8 0.8 0.9 0.3 0.743
W 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.7 0.8 0.9 1 0.5 0.743
X 0.9 1 1.1 1.1 1.2 1.2 1.3 0.4 1.114
Table 5: Leaf growth (cm) of mustard in the control setup
The table above indicates the leaf span in cm of the 24 mustard seedlings
planted on the soil that served as the control. The observation was conducted a
week after the germination of the said seedlings and done for seven consecutive
days. The growth ranges from 0.2 cm – 0.6 cm while the average length ranges
from 0.5 cm – 1.3 cm.
39
Comparison between the setups
Average Average leaf

Shoot growth Leaf growth
height span
HS CS HS CS HS CS HS CS
1 0.8 2.3 0.3 1.857 1.643 1.671 0.514
1.2 0.7 2.7 0.3 2.5 1.9 2.1 0.857
1.3 1.7 2.4 0.3 2.243 2.157 1.8 0.714
0.7 1.2 2.4 0.3 2.271 1.986 1.986 0.486
1.3 0.9 2.1 0.2 2.443 2.414 1.829 0.814
1.2 0.7 1.9 0.5 2.743 2.214 1.6 0.871
1.1 0.9 1.6 0.3 2.043 1.786 1.814 0.871
1.1 1.4 2 0.2 2.1 1.957 1.4 0.586
1.2 0.8 2.1 0.3 2.029 2.243 1.871 0.986
1.1 0.9 2.6 0.6 2.4 2 1.871 1.329
1.5 0.5 2.4 0.2 2.729 2.143 1.871 0.843
1 0.9 1.9 0.3 2.186 1.986 1.757 0.743
1.1 1.2 2.5 0.3 2.057 1.914 1.729 0.657
1.1 0.9 1.8 0.2 2.6 2.057 1.757 0.7
1 1 1.8 0.4 2.329 1.886 1.871 1.1
1 1.5 1.9 0.3 2.414 2.114 1.814 0.871
1.3 1.3 2.3 0.3 2.786 2.271 1.757 0.5
0.7 1.1 2.5 0.3 2.143 2.071 1.986 0.643
0.9 0.8 2.8 0.4 2.171 2 1.771 0.614
1.6 1 2.4 0.3 2.386 1.9 1.814 0.614

40
0.9 0.5 2 0.4 2.214 2.3 1.786 0.9
1.1 0.8 1.9 0.3 1.814 2.143 1.814 0.743
1.3 0.8 2.4 0.5 2.443 1.786 1.643 0.743
1.4 0.8 1.7 0.4 2.814 1.957 1.643 1.114
Table 6: Summary of results
The table above presents all necessary figures tabulated in a spreadsheet
for statistical analysis. Four parameters were compared overall as indicated.
Statistical Analysis
The independent t-test, also called the two sample t-test, independent-
samples t-test or student's t-test, is an inferential statistical test that determines
whether there is a statistically significant difference between the means in two
unrelated groups. The proponents utilized this in order to determine if there exists
a significant difference between their proposed hydroponic system and a soil
setup in terms of nourishing mustasa plants (Brassica integrifolia) in line with the
four aforementioned parameters.
Hydroponic Control
Mean 1.129166667 0.9625
Variance 0.048242754 0.087663043
Observations 24 24
Hypothesized Mean Difference 0
Df 42
41
t Stat 2.214804409
P(T<=t) one-tail 0.016126237
t Critical one-tail 2.41847036
P(T<=t) two-tail 0.032252473
t Critical two-tail 2.698066186
Table 7: t-Test on shoot growth with alpha value = 0.01
The table reveals that the t Stat is 2.21, which is less than the
corresponding t Critical value. Thus, the researchers failed to reject the null
hypothesis. This is further supported by the p-value 0.016 being greater than the
alpha value.
Hydroponic Control
Mean 2.183333333 0.329166667
Variance 0.111014493 0.009981884
Observations 24 24
Df 27
t Stat 26.11368778
P(T<=t) one-tail 5.36239E-21
P(T<=t) two-tail 1.07248E-20
Table 8: t-Test on leaf growth with alpha value = 0.01
42
The table reveals that the t Stat is 26.11, which is greater than the
corresponding t Critical value. Thus, the researchers reject the null hypothesis.
This is further supported by the p-value being less than the alpha value.
Hydroponic Control
Mean 2.321458333 2.0345
Variance 0.078631216 0.033107478
Observations 24 24
Df 39
t Stat 4.205548705
P(T<=t) one-tail 7.36997E-05
P(T<=t) two-tail 0.000147399
Table 9: t-Test on average height with alpha value = 0.01
43
Hydroponic Control
Mean 1.789791667 0.783875
Variance 0.019827998 0.042818723
Observations 24 24
Df 41
t Stat 19.68876396
P(T<=t) one-tail 8.25381E-23
P(T<=t) two-tail 1.65076E-22
Table 10: t-Test on average leaf span with alpha value = 0.01
Overall, the statistical analysis shows a general plant growth difference
between the compared setups.
44
Chapter 5
DISCUSSION
This chapter is a detailed presentation of the findings with scientific back-
up for the arguments. It explains the results and interprets them in context of the
previous works related to this study, as well as provides some suggestions for
future research.
The data results gathered during the seven-day observation of the growth
of mustard plant (Brassica integrifolia) in two setups successfully supports the
anticipated outcome of the researchers and is also consistent with the findings of
other hydroponic researches aforementioned in the second chapter (Tellez,
2014). With a fully working hydroponic system, automated by Arduino Nano,
integrated circuits, and a pump, this study entitled “Design and Development of a
Sustainable Automated Hydroponic System based on Arduino and Integrated
Circuits”, an attempt to solve the loss of agricultural lands, accomplishes its
objective of sustaining the growth of plants while consuming as less space as
possible.
Beginning with the setup itself, it was well made with no leaks and is
expected to last for years, a prediction in line with the designs in the study of
Morganthaler (2017). The electronic components respond properly and do their
respective tasks accordingly, which made the automation smooth similar to the
demonstration shown by EMP (2017).
45
Next with the samples, there was an obvious visual difference between
the plants on the system and on the control setup. It was proven to be statistically
true to a greater extent by the t-Test results revealed in the previous chapter.
Though the comparison of shoot growth rate (difference between day 7 and day
1) showed that there is no significant difference, it actually means that the two
groups grew at almost the same rate over the week.
Overall, in terms of the heights of the plants, leaf span, and leaf growth
there exists a statistical difference that leads the researchers to infer the efficacy
of this proposed system especially when applied on a bigger scale. The
proponents even made a 3D model of their system to serve as a template for the
future researchers to improve.
Conclusion
The researchers automated the hydroponic system they designed and
developed with Arduino Nano ATMega 328 and integrated circuits through
programming, which aims to promote vertical hydroponic gardening, and further
make it convenient. Based on the gathered data, the researchers concluded the
following:
(1) Due to the size of the finished automating device, the simple connections,
and the components of the system, the system is easy-to-use and is durable;
(2) The whole system costs Php 3000, including the framing and the hydroponic
solution used. It is relatively cheap with respect to the purpose and durability it
46
serves, confirming that it can be constructed using relatively inexpensive and
available materials;
(3) The system standing the test of time is anticipated since the materials used
were intended to be heavy-duty and an appropriate environment was chosen as
its setting.
(4) Plants grow better in a hydroponic system concerning the shoots and leafage.
Recommendations
The researchers would like to recommend to: (1) design and develop a
system with a bigger scale; (2) enable wireless display and/or online storage of
plant condition; and (3) add pH, humidity, temperature sensing, and height
monitoring.
47
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Carandang, J. S. R., & Taylor, R. W. (2013). Urban Rooftop Hydroponic for
Diversified Agriculture: Pilot Project. VIII(1), 1–4.
Dyna-Gro, Inc. (2018, April 11). Hydroponic: Advantages and Disadvantages.
Retrieved from Dyna-Gro: https://dyna-gro.com/hydroponic-advantages-
anddisadvantages/
Hopper, E. (2016, December 27). Analyzing Nutrient Film Technique. Retrieved
from Maximum Yield: https://www.maximumyield.com/analyzing-nutrientfilm-
technique/2/1181
Jones, J. B. Jr. (2014). Complete Guide for Growing Plants Hydroponically
[PDF].
Boca Raton, Florida: CRC Press, Taylor & Francis Group.
Kyaw, T. Y., & Ng, A. K. (2017). Smart Aquaponics System for Urban Farming.
Energy Procedia, 143, 342–347. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.egypro.2017.12.694
Maki, L. (2012a). Required Daily Hydroponic System Maintenance. Retrieved
from
http://www.gardenandgreenhouse.net/articles/october2012/hydroponic-101-
required-daily-maintenance-fora-complete-hydroponic-system/
Matuschke, I. (2009, August 16). Rapid urbanization and food security: Using
food
48
density maps to identify future food security hotspots [PDF]. International
Association of Agricultural Economists Conference, 16-22 August 2009.
Beijing.
Mohammed, S., & Sookoo, R. (2016). Nutrient Film Technique for Commercial
Production. Agriculture Science Research Journal, 1-1409.
Sihombing, P., Karina, N. A., Tarigan, J. T., & Syarif, M. I. (2018). Automated
hydroponic nutrition plants systems using Arduino Uno microcontroller-based
on android. Journal of Physics: Conference Series, 978(1).
https://doi.org/10.1088/1742-6596/978/1/012014
Sundgren, A. (2015). Open Source Automation for Hydroponic – Design,
Construction, Programming and Testing.
What is hydroponic? (n.d.). Retrieved from
http://www.simplyhydro.com/whatis.htm
What is Urban Farming? (n.d.). Retrieved from
https://www.greensgrow.org/urban-
farm/what-is-urbanfarming/
49
APPENDICES
50
HYDROPONIC SYSTEM
Image 1: Materials for Framing Image 2: Framing
Image 3: Framing (Close Up) Image 4: Storage PVC Pipes
51
Image 5: Sealing the Storage Pipes Image 6: Drilling Drainage Holes
Image 7: Connecting Drainage Pipes Image 8: Marking for Hole Drilling

52
Image 9: Inserting Cup for depth Calibration
Image 10: Drilling Holes

53
Image 11: Resealing the Container Pipes
Image 12: Stabilizing the Pipe’s Position

54
Image 13: Hydroponic System
Image 14: Transferring the Hydroponic System to Jacinto Residence

55
Image 15: Pouring Water to Detect Leakage
Image 16: Resealing to Prevent Leakage

56
Image 17: Testing Electronic Components
Image 18: Germination
57
Image 19: Mixing the Snap Hydroponic Solution to the 45L Water
Image 20: Inserting the Cups with Seedlings in the Hydroponic System
58
Image 21: Controlled Set-Up
Image 22: Day 7 of Hydroponic Set-Up
59
Image 23: Day 7 of Controlled Set-Up
60
#include <LiquidCrystal.h>
int level1=A1;
int level2=A2;
int level3=A3;
int level4=A4;
int level5=A5;
int motor=6;
int a;
int b;
int c;
int d;
int e;
int r; //Water Pump status flag
int m=0; //water Pump flag
int z=111; // Adjust this value from 100 to 1023 if your circuit do not show correct
value.
LiquidCrystal lcd(12, 11, 5, 4, 3, 2);
void setup()
pinMode(level1,INPUT);
61
pinMode(motor,OUTPUT);
lcd.begin(20, 4); // if you are using 16x2 line LCD, then replace these values and also
adjust all LCD text for 1st and 2nd line in the loop below.
void loop()
r=digitalRead(motor);
a=analogRead(level1);
b=analogRead(level2);
c=analogRead(level3);
d=analogRead(level4);
e=analogRead(level5);
lcd.clear();
lcd.setCursor(2,0);
lcd.print("Easy HM Projects");
lcd.setCursor(0,1);
lcd.print("Water Level Monitor.");
if(e>z && d>z && c>z && b>z && a>z )
digitalWrite(motor,LOW);
62
lcd.setCursor(1,2);
lcd.print("Tank is 100% FULL");
else
if(e<z && d>z && c>z && b>z && a>z )
lcd.setCursor(1,2);
else
if(e<z && d<z && c>z && b>z && a>z )
lcd.setCursor(1,2);
else
if(e<z && d<z && c<z && b>z && a>z )
lcd.setCursor(1,2);
}
63
else
if(e<z && d<z && c<z && b<z && a>z )
lcd.setCursor(1,2);
else
{if(e<z && d<z && c<z && b<z && a<z )
digitalWrite(motor,HIGH);
lcd.setCursor(3,2);
lcd.print("Tank is EMPTY");
}}}}
if(r==LOW)
lcd.setCursor(0,3);
lcd.print("Water Pump is (OFF)");
else
lcd.setCursor(0,3);
64
lcd.print("Water Pump is (ON)");
delay(100);
lcd.clear();
}}
65

Automated Hydroponic

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Automated Hydroponic

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AUTOMATED HYDROPONIC SYSTEM

DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF A SUSTAINABLE AUTOMATED

Shekinah Elohim C. Chua

Janina Sofia H. Jacinto

Marco Dave R. Villaruel

Sapang Palay National High School- Senior High School

February 11, 2020

The current issues regarding the decline of available agricultural lands in

Keywords: Arduino Nano, Fritzing, Mustasa, Prototype, Vertical Hydroponic

In the completion of this study, we would like to express our deepest

We would like to thank our principal, Mrs. Florida C. Gonzales in

who is always there to give us pieces of advice, reminders, and words of

us some equipment to finish our study.

from the start until the end.

CHAPTER 1: PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

Statement of the Problem……………………………………….…….…….....7

Scope and Delimitations………………………………………………………..9

Significance of the Study………………………………………………….…..9

CHAPTER 2: REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

Advantages of using Hydroponic System………………………………..….13

Ethical Consideration in Research…………………………………………19

Methodological Flow Chart………………………………...……...………….20

Comparison between the Setups…………………………………………….31

Image 1: Materials for Framing ………………………………………….......43

Image 3: Framing (Close Up)…………………………………………….......43

Image 4: Storage PVC Pipes……………...……………………………........43

Image 5: Sealing the Storage Pipes……….…………………………..........44

Image 6: Drilling Drainage Hole……..…………………………………........44

Image 7: Connecting of Drainage Pipes…..………………………….….....44

Image 8:Marking for Hole Drilling…..……………………………………......44

Image 9: Inserting Cup for depth Calibration …………………………......45

Image 10: Drilling Holes ……………………………………………………..45

Image 11: Resealing Container Pipes………………………………..........46

Image 12: Stabilizing the Pipe’s Position………………………………….46

Image 13: Hydroponic System……………….………………………….......47

Image 14: Transporting the Hydroponic System to Jacinto Residence. .47

Image 15: Pouring Water to Detect Leakage…….…………………...........48

Image 16: Resealing to Prevent Leakage………………………………......48

Image 17: Testing Electronic Components.…………………………….......49

Image 18: Germination...…………………………………………...…….......49

Image 21: Controlled Set-Up……………………………..…………………..51

Image 22: Day 7 of Hydroponic Set-Up…………………………………….51

Image 23: Day 7 of Controlled Set-Up……………………………………...52

Figure 1: Research Paradigm………………..……………………………......6

Figure 2: Methodological Flow Char………………...…………………....... 20

Table 1: Pin Connections………………………………………….…………23

Table 2: Shoot growth (cm) of mustard in hydroponic system ……........ 26

Table 3: Leaf growth (cm) of mustard in hydroponic system................... 27

Table 4: Shoot growth (cm) of mustard in the control setup………………29

Table 5: Leaf growth (cm) of mustard in the control setup …………..…..30

Table 6: Summary of results ……………………………………….…...…...32

Table 7: t-Test on shoot growth with alpha value = 0.01…………….......33

Table 8: t-Test on leaf growth with alpha value = 0.01…………………….34

Table 9: t-Test on average height with alpha value = 0.01………….…….35

PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

background and the significance of the study.

Philippines is well known as an agricultural country that heavily depends

and globalization have entered the economic scene, causing a decline of

which affects the profit of local farmers (Philstar, 2018 ).

The aforementioned problem reveals a need to develop and introduce the

coconut powder to plant on. In taking care of plants in a hydroponic system, it is

concentration, having a lot of plants to cultivate makes it more inconvenient to do

so. To maintain hydration of a huge number of plants, an automatic system is