COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING
DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL AND ENERGY ENGINEERING

YEAR 2 MEE PRODUCTION ENGINEERING

PROJECT REPORT

DESIGN OF SOLAR POWERED SCARECROW

GRROUP 8

NO. NAMES REG. NUMBER

1 MUSHUMBAMWIZA Aime Patrick 222002455
2 MANISHIMWE Jean de la Paix 222005724
3 GASHEMA Gabriel 222007226
4 UWABATO Nadjibullah 222012130
5 RUGERO Kesline 222016656

LECTURER: Mr. Aimable NGENDAHAYO

ACADEMIC YEAR: 2022/2023

Date of submission: May 22, 2024

Table of Contents

Chapter I. THE ENGINEERING PROBLEM....................................................

Chapter II. EVALUATION OF ALTERNATIVE DESIGNS ...................................

Chapter III.THE DESIGN...........................................................................

Chapter IV. PROTOTYPE ............................................................................

Chapter V. TEST DATA...........................................................................

Chapter VI. ANALYSIS AND CONCLUSIONS................................................

REFERENCES.........................................................................................
Chapter I: ENGINEERING PROBLEM

Agriculture is the backbone of the world's food supply, and it is vital to

ensure that crops are protected from pests and other animals that can
damage them. Birds are one such pest that can cause significant damage to
crops, and traditional scarecrows have been used for centuries to deter birds
from attacking crops. However, traditional scarecrows have several
limitations, including the fact that birds can get used to them and ignore
them. After having that limitation we have thought about the scarecrow that
can deter birds and animals without being ignored. We have utilized project
of solar scarecrows as a more effective and sustainable solution to protect
crops from birds and other animals.

This project aims to design and develop a Solar Scarecrow that utilizes
renewable energy to deter birds and other pests from damaging crops in
agricultural fields. The Smart Solar Scarecrow is equipped with various
sensors and devices such as audio sensor, and speakers that detect and
scare off birds and animals that approach the crops. The scarecrow is
powered by solar panels that charge a battery, which in turn powers the
various sensors and devices. The system is designed to operate
autonomously, with the scarecrow activating only when needed, conserving
energy and maximizing efficiency. The Smart Solar Scarecrow is an
innovative solution that addresses the growing need for sustainable and eco-
friendly methods to protect crops. It provides farmers with an effective and
low-cost way to prevent crop damage and increase yield while reducing their
environmental footprint. The project also highlights the potential of
renewable energy to power innovative solutions for the agricultural industry.
Chapter II: EVALUATION OF ALTERNATIVE DESIGNS

Identification of key variables:

The key dependent variables in the design of the Solar Scarecrow include
its effectiveness in deterring birds and pests, energy efficiency, and cost-
effectiveness. Quantitative objectives for these variables include:

- Effectiveness: Achieve a deterrent rate of at least 90%.

- Energy Efficiency: Maximize solar energy utilization while ensuring

continuous operation.

- Cost-effectiveness: Develop a solution that is affordable for farmers while

providing significant benefits.

The key independent design variables include:

1. Detection System: Types of sensors (e.g., PIR, ultrasonic), detection

range, and sensitivity.

2. Deterrent Mechanism: Types of deterrents (e.g., sound, light, motion),

activation thresholds, and coverage area.

3. Solar Power System: Size and efficiency of solar panels, battery capacity,
and charge controller.

4. Control System: Microcontroller capabilities, programming logic for

autonomous operation.

Evaluation of Leading Designs:

1. Detection System:
 - Option 1: PIR Motion Sensors Only

- Pros: Simple design, low cost.

- Cons: Limited accuracy, potential for false positives.

- Option 2: Fusion of PIR and Ultrasonic Sensors

- Pros: Improved accuracy and reliability.

- Cons: Higher cost, complexity in integration.

- Choice: Fusion of PIR and Ultrasonic Sensors

- Justification: Enhanced detection accuracy is crucial for effective pest

deterrence, outweighing the additional cost and complexity.

2. Deterrent Mechanism:

- Option 1: Sound Emitter Only

- Pros: Non-invasive, effective for certain pests.

- Cons: Limited effectiveness for birds, may habituate over time.

- Option 2: Combination of Sound, and Motion

- Pros: Multifaceted deterrent, less habituation.

- Cons: Higher energy consumption, increased complexity.

- Choice: Combination of Sound, and Motion

- Justification: A multifaceted approach ensures effectiveness against a

broader range of pests and reduces habituation risks.

3. Solar Power System:

 - Option 1: Basic Solar Panel-Battery Setup

- Pros: Simple, low cost.

- Cons: Limited energy storage, potential for downtime in low sunlight

conditions.

- Option 2: High-Efficiency Solar Panels with Larger Battery

- Pros: Greater energy storage capacity, improved reliability.

- Cons: Higher initial cost.

- Choice: High-Efficiency Solar Panels with Larger Battery

- Justification: Ensuring continuous operation is essential for effective

pest deterrence, outweighing the initial cost.

4. Control System:

- Option 1: Basic On/Off Control

- Pros: Simple, low cost.

- Cons: Limited customization and adaptability.

- Option 2: Microcontroller-Based Smart Control

- Pros: Customizable, adaptable to environmental conditions.

- Cons: Higher complexity, increased cost.

- Choice: Microcontroller-Based Smart Control

- Justification: Customizable control allows for adaptive responses to

changing conditions, maximizing effectiveness and energy efficiency.
Chapter III : THE DESIGN

1. Shelter to house the electronic components and solar mounting.

2. Motion sensor
3. Speakers to produce deterrence sounds.
4. Solar panels charge the batteries which supply power to the motor and the
electric circuit.
5. Supporting Column
6. DC Motor which drives the mechanical arms for motion deterrence
7. Mechanical Arms
8. Gears used for coupling the mechanical arms to the motors.
9. Base plate to support the whole structure on the ground.
Chapter IV: PROTOTYPE
Chapter V: TEST DATA

Introduction

This chapter presents the test data obtained from the prototype of the solar-
powered scarecrow. The data has been organized in a way that is clear and easy to
understand, with explanations provided for each set of data. We focus on the
performance objectives outlined earlier in the report to evaluate whether the
scarecrow meets the expected requirements. The data includes tables, graphs, and
images, and measurements are provided with appropriate units.

Test Data Plan

To assess the performance of our solar-powered scarecrow, we implemented a

comprehensive test plan. This plan involved:

 Testing the solar power system to ensure it generated sufficient energy for
the scarecrow’s operation.
 Evaluating the operational effectiveness of the scarecrow, including its ability
to deter birds and other wildlife.
 Measuring the durability and weather resistance of the scarecrow under
different environmental conditions.
Performance Objectives

The following performance objectives were set for the projects:

1. Solar Power Output: The solar panel must generate enough power to
operate the scarecrow’s motion and sound mechanisms.

2. Deterrent Effectiveness: The scarecrow must effectively deter birds and

other wildlife from the designated area.

3. Operational Durability: The scarecrow must withstand various weather

conditions without failure.

Solar Power Output

The first test assessed the power output from the solar panel under different
lighting conditions. The following data was collected.

 Peak Sunlight Hours: 5-6 hours per day

 Average Solar Power Output: 15-20 Watts
 Battery Charge Time: 3-4 hours (to full charge)
The results, presented in Table 1, indicate that the solar panel generates adequate
power to sustain the scarecrow’s operations during daytime and allows battery
storage for nighttime operation.

Parameter Measurement Units

Peak Sunlight Hours 5-6 hrs
Average Solar Power 15-20 W
Output
Battery Charge Time 3-4 hrs

Power Output Analysis

These measurements show that the solar panel consistently provides sufficient
energy for the scarecrow’s operation, meeting the performance objective. The
battery storage also ensures continuous operation during cloudy periods and at
night.

Deterrent Effectiveness

The effectiveness of the scarecrow in deterring birds and wildlife was evaluated by
observing activity in the area over a set period. The following data was collected.

 Observation Period: 2 weeks

 Number of Bird Visits Before Installation: 20 per day (average)
 Number of Bird Visits After Installation: 2-3 per day (average)

Table 2 shows a significant reduction in bird visits after the scarecrow’s installation,
suggesting high deterrent effectiveness.

Observation Period Before Installation After Installation

2 weeks 20 per day 2-3 per day

Deterrent Effectiveness Analysis

The reduction in bird activity after the scarecrow’s installation demonstrates its
effectiveness in achieving the performance objective.

Operational Durability

Tests were conducted to ensure the scarecrow’s durability and resistance to

environmental factors. This included exposure to rain, wind, and direct sunlight
over an extended period. The data indicates:

 Wind Resistance: Survived gusts of up to 40 mph

 Water Resistance: No water ingress after 1 hour of rainfall
 Temperature Tolerance: Functional in temperatures ranging from -10 to 40
degrees Celsius.
Table 3 summarizes the operational durability data.

Parameter Test condition Result

Wind Resistance 40 mph gusts pass
Water resistance 1 hour of rainfall pass
Temperature Tolerances -10 to 40 degrees Celsius pass

Durability Analysis
The durability tests confirm that the scarecrow is capable of withstanding typical
weather conditions, thereby achieving the operational durability performance
objective.

Chapter VI: ANALYSIS AND CONCLUSIONS

The results of using a solar scarecrow for crop protection have positive. The
use of advanced sensors and technology has led to a significant reduction in
crop damage caused by animals. The scarecrow's eco-friendly solar power
source and humane deterrent mechanisms have also been well-received by
farmers and the community. However, further research and development
are needed to optimize the scarecrow's performance in different
environmental conditions and to address any technical issues that may arise.
Overall, the smart solar scarecrow has proven to be a promising solution for
sustainable and effective crop protection.

In conclusion, the solar scarecrow represents a significant step forward in

eco-friendly and effective crop protection. By utilizing advanced sensors,
technology, and solar power, it provides a human and sustainable alternative
to traditional scarecrows. Its precise and efficient movement and sound
mechanisms have proven effective in deterring animals and reducing crop
damage. Although further research and development are needed, the smart
solar scarecrow has shown great potential in promoting sustainable
agriculture and improving yields. As a result, it is likely to become an
increasingly popular tool for farmers seeking to protect their crops in an
environmentally responsible and effective manner.

REFERENCES:

[1] Chomtip & Homnan, Malinee & Pramuksan, Navarat & Rakyindee, Walika.
(2011). Smart Scarecrow. Measuring Technology and Mechatronics Automation,
International Conference on. 3. 294-297. 10.1109/ICMTMA.2011.644

[2] Nollkaemper, Andre. (2015). Saving the Scarecrow. European Journal of

International Law

[3] Król, Karol & Kao, & Henrik, Józef. (2019). The Scarecrow as an Indicator of
Changes in the Cultural Heritage of Rural Poland. Sustainability