FINAL-RESEARCH-PAPER.docx

NAGA CITY SCIENCE HIGH SCHOOL Junior High School Department **SOLSCAN: Solar-Powered Nutrient Dispensing and Soil Evaluation System with Real-Time Monitoring and Alarm via Mobile Application for Eggplant (*Solanum melongena*) Cultivation** A Scientific Investigatory Project submitted to the Scie...

NAGA CITY SCIENCE HIGH SCHOOL Junior High School Department **SOLSCAN: Solar-Powered Nutrient Dispensing and Soil Evaluation System with Real-Time Monitoring and Alarm via Mobile Application for Eggplant (*Solanum melongena*) Cultivation** A Scientific Investigatory Project submitted to the Science Faculty Department of Naga City Science High School in partial fulfillment of requirements in Research II **DEJUCOS**, Rhyle P. **INTIA**, Shawn Lyron A. **GABRIEL**, Azeden **NUÑEZ,** Patric Josef P. **PERA,** Francis O. **REGIDOR**, Jace Lennox M. **SEVILLA**, Zoe Gabrielle A. **TORIBIO,** Zoe Agatha H. *Student Researchers* **INTRODUCTION** To meet the increasing need for sustainable farming practices, we have come up with SOLSCAN: a solar-powered system that gives real-time soil analysis and nutrient discharge customized for Eggplant (*Solanum melongena*) farming. SOLSCAN is an integration of high-level technology and agricultural science that has been inspired by the challenges experienced by Filipino farmers in order to enable maximization of crop yield while optimizing soil conditions. With the use of a pH sensor, SOLSCAN helps in determining the pH levels which reveal how fertile the soil is and also indicate if plants can grow well. In addition to analysis, this system provides nutrients including liquid sulfur and lime directly on-site leading to strong plant growth. Using the idea of \"smart farming,\" SOLSCAN manipulates factors such as the pH level content of the soil so as to generate favorable conditions for plant development. We are carrying out research on developing a robot that can analyze soils as soon as they are needed and supply nutrients. By integrating sensing devices into robots having some degree of autonomy, SOLSCAN accurately tells about soil conditions, adds necessary nutrients directly into plant tissues thereby ensuring maximum health and development. In addition, our investigations focus on enhancing microbial activities by incorporating manure composts or other types of fertilizers to enrich soils with organic matter or vital elements. **Statement of the Problem** The study created a system that integrates real-time soil analysis and automated nutrient dispensing with a user-friendly mobile application. SOLSCAN tackles the challenges faced by plant owners, especially those managing gardens remotely. Specifically, the study answered the following questions: 1. How is the device helpful to the farmers or gardeners in maintaining plant health and optimal plant growth? 2. How can we know that the soil needs more nutrients or needs to reduce the nutrients by using the device for optimal plant growth? 3. How efficient is the device in analyzing the needed content of the soil and sending SMS of the data through Mobile Application to be monitored? **Significance of the Study** This research produced a prototype that carried out the soil content analysis, which contains the pH and soil fertility. It automatically provided the required quantity of nutrient as soon as it realized that there weren\'t enough nutrients in the intended use soil. It further dispensed limestone solution upon determining that the soil\'s pH level was low and pH decreased as the pH was elevated. The following will benefit from this study: **Community**. It improves local food security by increasing eggplant cultivation efficiency and productivity. Reliable production of a staple crop such as eggplant contributes to a steady food supply for the local people. **The Department of Agriculture or the Philippines Agriculture Sector**. It was beneficial. These organizations support the use of smart farming techniques for crops. It also helps them to create healthier eggplants for everyone since it had the proper amount of nutrients need to be consumed by a crop. **Farmers**. They will gain advantage from this study because it will make their jobs easier in making sure that the soil they used was well-conditioned and appropriate for the growth of their crops. It also saved time and money because with the help of this device, the needed regular supervision was not anymore necessary because of the irrigation statement that supplied the right amount of water needed by the soil. **REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE** The following are the review of related literatures. Soil macronutrient deficiency is one of the common agricultural problems that the Philippines is facing, affecting the growth of varied crops. With this in mind, the researchers created a device that analyses and supplies the needed pH level of the soil. The features of the device such as its functionality and accuracy in analyzing and dispensing the needed soil macronutrients were examined. Functionalities, information, and details of the Sunlight, Moisture, and Temperature as major nutrients needed for the plants, were included in this chapter. Hypothesis and Conceptual framework were also discussed in this chapter. **Soil Moisture: How To Measure & Monitor Its Level** Soil moisture sensing technologies have emerged as essential tools in modern agriculture because they provide immediate information that help improve crop yield, optimize irrigation techniques, and water conservation. Traditional methods of soil moisture measurement, such as manual sampling, lack the precision and scalability required for effective agricultural management. However, recent developments in sensor technologies have completely changed the way soil moisture content is monitored in agricultural fields by enabling continuous, remote measurement of the moisture content of the soil. Precision irrigation management is made possible by the integration of soil moisture sensing technologies in agriculture, which promotes optimal water use efficiency and reduces water waste. By giving farmers access to immediate information on soil moisture dynamics, farmers are more prepared to plan irrigation schedules, choose crops, and apply fertilizers. These technologies have shown a great deal of guarantee in reducing the negative consequences of flooding, improving climate change durability, and advancing methods for sustainable agriculture. Even though soil moisture sensing technologies have many advantages, there are still a number of challenges preventing their widespread implementation and use. Deployment in agriculture is severely restricted by problems with sensor accuracy, testing, data interpretation, and affordability. Additionally, more study and development are needed to connect sensor networks with current farm management systems. It is expected that future developments in data analysis and wireless communication will solve these issues and promote the use of soil moisture sensing technologies in agriculture. To sum up, soil moisture sensing technologies are a promising way to enhance crop productivity, manage irrigation better, and support sustainable agriculture. The quick progress of sensor technologies, along with data analytics and remote sensing advancements, shows a significant opportunity to transform agricultural practices. Farmers can maximize water use, reduce environmental impact, and guarantee food supply in spite of climate change by using immediate soil moisture data. However, to fully utilize these technologies in agriculture and to overcome the obstacles preventing their widespread use, coordinated efforts are needed. **(RHS) Soil Understanding pH and Testing Soil** Understanding soil pH is vital for optimizing agricultural productivity and sustainability. Soil pH, indicating soil acidity or alkalinity, influences nutrient availability, microbial activity, and plant growth. Brady and Weil (2016) delve into soil pH fundamentals, stressing its significance in soil management and crop production. They discuss factors like parent material and human activities affecting soil pH and underscore the importance of pH buffering capacity in preserving soil fertility. Soil testing is pivotal for evaluating soil pH levels and guiding soil management practices. According to Soltanpour and Schwab (1977), various methods like pH meters and colorimetric tests offer reliable means to measure soil pH. They assess the accuracy and suitability of different testing techniques across soil types and conditions, contributing to effective soil fertility management strategies in agriculture. Soil pH profoundly influences plant growth by affecting nutrient availability and root function. Marschner (2012) explores physiological mechanisms linking soil pH to nutrient uptake and growth. The study highlights pH-dependent ion solubility and root exudates\' role in nutrient acquisition by plants, crucial for optimizing fertilizer application and crop productivity across diverse soil pH conditions. Effective soil pH management is crucial for sustaining agricultural productivity and environmental stewardship. Silva and Santos (2015) evaluate various strategies like liming and acidification, discussing their efficacy and sustainability in modifying soil pH and enhancing crop performance. By providing insights into integrated soil pH management approaches, the research contributes to sustainable soil fertility management practices in agriculture. Understanding soil pH and employing effective soil testing methods are imperative for enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability. By elucidating the impacts of soil pH on plant growth and exploring management strategies, researchers contribute to evidence-based soil fertility management practices. Further research is needed to address knowledge gaps and improve agricultural systems\' resilience to soil pH variability and environmental challenges **pH Level** According to Glackamas (2017), determining soil pH is a vital aspect for successful gardening, comparable in importance to factors like location, exposure, and soil preparation. Morgan and Mahmound (2013) conducted a study titled \"Effect Reduced Soil pH With Sulfur On Available Soil Phosphorus in High pH Sandy Soils,\" which demonstrated that sulfur amendments can lower soil pH, leading to increased availability of phosphorus from previous crops. However, this pH adjustment typically lasts for only 30 to 60 days. Additionally, Azman et al. (2013) conducted a study titled \"Increasing Rice Production Using Different Lime Sources on an Acid Sulphate Soil in Merbok, Malaysia,\" which aimed to enhance rice yields on acidic sulfate soils through various lime sources. ***Solanum melongena* pH sensitivity** With the recent studies of Hybridity Testing of Eggplant F1 Progenies Derived from Parents with Varying Response to Drought Using SSR Markers; Eggplants (Solanum melongena L.), also known as aubergines or brinjals, are common vegetable crops grown worldwide. They thrive in sandy loam soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.52. The pH level affects nutrient availability, growth, and fruit development in eggplants. The pH of eggplant significantly impacts the enzymatic activity of polyphenol oxidase, which is responsible for the oxidation of phenolic compounds and the browning of the eggplant\'s pulp. Eggplants contain anthocyanin pigments, which change color based on pH, turning red in acidic conditions, purple in neutral conditions, and greenish-yellow in alkaline conditions. In summary, these findings support the importance of assessing soil pH, emphazising the significance emphasized in the current research, alongside factors like optimal location and exposure for crop growth. pH range Degree of acidity or alkalinity ---------- --------------------------------- 3-4 Very Strongly Acidic 4-5 Strongly Acidic 5-6 Moderately Acidic 6-7 Slightly Acidic 7 Neutral 7-8 Slightly Alkaline 8-9 Moderately Alkaline 9-10 Strongly Alkaline 10-11 Very strongly Alkaline ***Table 1.1: pH range and its degree of acidity or alkalinity.*** **Accelerometer** ***Figure 1.2: Accelerometer axes*** The accelerometer sensor plays a crucial role in monitoring soil, just as it does in patient monitoring systems. It provides fundamental data on the daily activity of the soil, which serves as a key parameter for analysis. Conceptually, an accelerometer operates like a damped mass on a spring, where acceleration displaces the mass, and this displacement is measured to determine acceleration. Various types of accelerometers, such as piezoelectric, piezoresistive, and capacitive, are commonly used to convert mechanical motion into electrical signals. Piezoelectric accelerometers use piezoceramics or single crystals to generate voltage under accelerative forces. Piezoresistive accelerometers are preferred for high shock applications due to their wide frequency range, low weight, and high temperature range. Capacitive accelerometers utilize silicon microstructures to detect changes in capacitance caused by accelerative forces. These sensors offer superior performance in the low frequency range and can be operated in servo mode for high stability and linearity. Modern accelerometers, often based on MEMS technology, are commonly found in smartphones and can be accessed and programmed through the Android operating system using SensorManager class and special Sensor Activity. The simple pseudo code example is provided below: *S e n s o r A c t i v i t y {* *g e t S e n s o r S e r v i c e ( ) ;* *g e t D e f a ul t S e n s o r ( SensorType ) ;* *onResume ( ) {* *onPause ( ) {* **Decision Support System in Remote Monitoring Applications** Sophisticated monitoring systems typically offer decision-making support in critical situations. In our context, this support relies on a knowledge base derived from medical expertise, enabling the system to make informed decisions and responses tailored to the needs of elderly individuals. Fuzzy logic, introduced by Lotfi Zadeh in 1965, emerges as a potential universal tool for such functionality, despite initial skepticism. Its adaptability and effectiveness in handling uncertainty have led to its widespread adoption, particularly in medical applications. Various projects have explored the integration of fuzzy logic into medical decision-making processes. Medical decision-making inherently involves uncertainty, including imprecise, inaccurate, missing, or conflicting information. Uncertainties must be addressed in different components of decision-making systems, including the knowledge base and patient data. For instance, blood pressure variations among patients with different health conditions highlight the need for adaptive systems capable of issuing appropriate alarms during emergencies. Fuzzy logic\'s flexible approach, resembling human logic without strict boundaries, proves invaluable in navigating these uncertainties. Its application in the medical field has seen exponential growth, reflecting its utility and versatility in addressing complex decision-making challenges. **Hypothesis** Implementation of the SOLSCAN system, with its real-time soil pH monitoring, alarm system, and mobile application interface, will significantly improve plant health and growth by enabling timely detection and remediation of soil acidity or alkalinity issues. **Conceptual Framework** ***Figure 1.3: Independent and Dependent variables of the study*** This diagram shows the independent variable is the implementation of a robotic system developed for real-time soil analysis and on-site nutrients dispensing in agricultural contexts. The independent variable involves the integration of advanced sensor technologies within the robotic system to measure the key soil parameter, the pH level. On the other hand, the dependent variable in this study is the impact of the robotic system deployment on various outcomes related to crop productivity, soil health, and sustainability. This variable includes changes in crop yield, quality, and health resulting from the use of the robotic system, improvements in soil nutrient levels, pH balance, and moisture retention, as well as reductions in resource usage, environmental impact, **METHODOLOGY** In this chapter, the researchers presented the method and procedures used in this study. It discussed the research method, the instruments, done along with the procedures, the data collection and the data analysis undertaken in the development of the proposed model. **Research Design** The study utilized both developmental methodology and a descriptive-experimental design. The developmental approach was chosen to construct, refine, and assess the device, ensuring its internal coherence and efficacy. Additionally, the descriptive method was employed to present the parameters, outcomes, and data acquired from utilizing the device, its constituents, and supplementary data from comparative sources. This systematic, accurate, and objective description adhered to the device\'s reliability and functionality within the study. The experimental design is also fitting for this study due to its quantitative nature, with randomized and manipulated samples, as well as intervention and control groups. The study employs a small-scale prototype device. This will be tested on manipulated setups of soil samples. These soil setups serve as samples for the device\'s measurement, detecting pH Level present. The comparison between control and experimental groups aims to identify significant differences among variables, with a two-factor ANOVA (Analysis of Variance), a statistical tool used to see if there are real differences between groups. It helps us figure out if the differences we see in averages are likely to happen just by random chance. It should be employed for this analysis. The collected soil samples in the two experimental groups will undergo this statistical examination. The developmental method, through post-test and evaluation by experts based on corresponding criteria, was used to determine the effectiveness of the device in dispensing needed nutrients and chemicals according to the deficiency of the soil.  ***Figure 2.0 Research blueprint of the device*** **Research Outline** This research outline shows the planning for an in-depth investigation into how automatic systems in agriculture can be used to address the challenges of traditional farming practices. Beginning by explaining the importance of using innovative solutions, then the outline proceeds to review relevant literatures about agricultural technology, soil analysis, and nutrient dispensing. After that, it will establish the conceptual basis of the study, hypotheses and the research questions to be answered. The outline will also show the methodology on how will the data be collected and experiment be done. The findings will then show how efficient the system will be in crop productivity and environment sustainability. Lastly, the conclusion will summarize the main points of this research study and how this study can be used for practical applications. 1. **Sensors** The total amount of sensors involved in a monitoring process can be increased, providing a more sophisticated level of the analysis and enchanting data processing. Possible suggestions are discussed in Chapter 2, Review of Related Literature. It was decided, however, to use a limited amount of sensors in the current project and establish a reliable connection for subsequent data transferring. 2. **Accelerometer** *S e n s o r A c t i v i t y {* *g e t S e n s o r S e r v i c e ( ) ;* *g e t D e f a ul t S e n s o r ( SensorType ) ;* *onResume ( ) {* *onPause ( ) {* Conceptually, an accelerometer emulates a damped mass on a spring. Upon experiencing acceleration, the mass shifts to a point where the spring can accelerate it at the same rate as the casing. Subsequently, this displacement is quantified to ascertain the acceleration. In commercial applications, various components such as piezoelectric, piezoresistive, and capacitive elements are commonly employed to convert mechanical motion into electrical signals. Piezoelectric accelerometers rely on materials like piezoceramics or single crystals, which generate voltage when subjected to accelerative forces. Piezoresistive accelerometers excel in upper frequency range, low weight, and high temperature tolerance, making them preferable for high shock scenarios. Capacitive accelerometers utilize two silicon micro-machined sensing elements, between which a capacitance is created. Movement of one structure due to an accelerative force alters the capacitance, and by converting certain circuitry from capacitance to voltage, a complete accelerometer reading can be obtained. These sensors exhibit superior performance in the low-frequency range and can be operated in servo mode to achieve high stability and linearity. Modern accelerometers often rely on micro electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) and are commonly integrated into the latest generation of smartphones, including those used in this project. In our case, access to accelerometer data can be facilitated through programming via the Android operating system, utilizing the \"SensorManager\" class and specialized Sensor Activity. Below is a simple pseudo code example: 3. **Processing Device** The current section will go through the second part of system hardware used for the developing purposes. Several main aspects concerning technical parameters and programming Android API (Application Programming interface) will be covered and formulated according to their involvement in the process. 4. **Samsung smart-phones** All data transmitted by sensors, excluding the accelerometer which is embedded within the phone, can be received by the processing device via Bluetooth connection. Both the Samsung Galaxy S and Samsung Galaxy Tab utilized in this thesis possess Bluetooth functionality. The subsequent task involves accessing this feature through Java programming language, without the need for any license or special agreement, as both devices operate on the Android operating system. Before advancing, it\'s pertinent to discuss some fundamental aspects of Bluetooth technology. According to the manuals of both smartphones, Bluetooth facilitates short-range wireless communication, capable of exchanging information within approximately a 10-meter radius without requiring a physical connection. Importantly, devices need not be aligned to establish a Bluetooth connection; as long as they are within range, data exchange is feasible, even across different rooms. However, it\'s essential to ensure that data sharing occurs only between trusted and securely configured devices. Obstacles between devices may diminish the operating distance, and compatibility issues may arise, especially with devices not tested or approved by Bluetooth SIG. Aside from Bluetooth capabilities, the Samsung Galaxy S boasts several technical parameters that render it suitable for inclusion in the monitoring system and subsequent data analysis. Notably, its processor, the S5PC110, integrates a 45 nm 1 GHz ARM Cortex-A8 based CPU core with a PowerVR SGX 540 GPU, capable of supporting OpenGL ES 1.1/2.0 and processing up to 20 million triangles per second. The CPU core, known as \"Hummingbird,\" was jointly developed by Samsung and Intrinsity. Regarding memory, the Samsung Galaxy S features 512 MB of dedicated LPDDR2 RAM and 16-32 MB of OneDRAM. Some variants also offer either 8GB or 16GB of OneNAND memory packaged with the processor. Additionally, an external microSD card slot supports up to 32GB of additional storage memory. It\'s noteworthy that the smartphones used for programming operate on the Android 2.1 operating system, also known as \"Eclair.\" 5. **Application Development** We opted for the Eclipse programming environment due to its simplicity and effectiveness. All communication between the processing device and sensors occurs through the application interface. We developed a specialized application for this purpose, with the primary goal of establishing a reliable connection. Once initialized, maintaining this connection is crucial to ensure consistent data storage in the phone\'s memory. Our Android project, built on Eclipse, comprises two main activities and a service dedicated to uninterrupted data transmission. We prioritize ensuring Bluetooth availability and activation on the device before any operations commence and can be executed with the following pseudo code: */ / check if bluetooth is supported* *i f ( BluetoothAdapter ( not Supported ) ) {* *printOut ( ' ' Bluetooth is not available ' ' ) ;* *f i n i s h ( ) ;* *r e t u r n ;* *}* And */ / check if bluetooth is enabled* *if ( Blu e too thAd ap t e r ( not Enabled ) ) {* *BluetoothAdapt r = ActionRequestEnable;* *}* **Materials** The researchers utilized case studies and Document Analysis methods as their data collection instruments. They identified various components of the device, carefully observing and verifying their proper functionality. Additionally, they will continually monitor the device during testing, promptly addressing any malfunctions that arose. Their primary objective was to assess whether the device facilitated farmers\' work, reducing both time and labor requirements.  ---------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Waterproof Enclosure Raspberry Pi Pico Microcontroller  Soil pH sensor Peristaltic Pump **Hardware** **Power Source** How to Choose the best solar battery for you - BRAVA  ------------------------------------------------------ --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Solar Powered Battery** **Power Adapter** **Connectivity Module** SIM800L V2 5V Wireless GSM GPRS Module ---------------------------------------- **GSM Module with built-in SIM card** **Mounting Hardware**  ------------------------ ------------------ **Zip ties** **Plant stakes**  Mounting Kits **Miscellaneous**  -------------- ------------------------- **Wires** **Connectors** **Resistor** **Data Collection** In our investigation, we employed document analysis and case studies as the primary methodologies. The study encompassed three distinct experimental configurations, each meticulously designed to probe different aspects of the subject matter. Two setups were subject to manipulation aimed at modifying the nutrient levels within the samples, while the third setup served as an unaltered control for comparative analysis. To ensure robustness, each setup was replicated three times. Furthermore, the study incorporated data obtained from the Regional Soils laboratory device to enrich the analytical framework. In the initial setup, we manipulated the soil sample to manifest heightened nutrient levels, characterized by a markedly alkaline pH (above 6.5). Conversely, the second setup involved inducing low nutrient levels, with NPK levels ranging from 3 to 7 and an acidic pH (below 5.5). The third setup, serving as the control group, remained unaltered to establish a baseline against the manipulated samples. Each experimental setup underwent three replicates for testing, with variations primarily concerning the quantity of chemical solution applied to the soil samples. This iterative approach aimed to evaluate the device\'s internal consistency in analyzing and presenting data across varying concentration levels. **BIBLIOGRAPHY** Ajmera, R. (2017). *7 Surprising Health Benefits of Eggplants*. Healthline. Azman, E.A., et. al. (2013). *Increasing Rice Production Using Different Lime Sources on an Acid Sulphate Soil in Merbok, Malaysia*. Retrieved from Balagangadhar, K., & Nagalakshmi, T. J. (2017). An Android Based Monitoring and Alarm System for Patients with Chronic Obtrusive Disease. *Indian Journal of Public Health Research and Development*, *8*(4), 1183. B. Maravilla, A. M., O. Canama, A., M. Ocampo, E. T., & F. Delfin, E. (2017, February ‌ Cherlinka, V. (2024b, February 2). Soil moisture: How to measure & monitor its level. *EOS Data Analytics*. Fernando, P. G., & Lacatan, L. L. (2020). Microcontroller-Based Soil Nutrients Analyzer for Plant Applicability using Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System. *TEST Engineering & Management*, *82*, 5576--5581. https://www.testmagzine.biz/index.php/testmagzine/article/download/1713/1549 Gibb, A. (2010). New, Media Art, Design, and The Arduino Microcontroller: A Malleable Tool. Retrieved from http://aliciagibb.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/New-MediaArt-Design-and-the-Arduino-Microcontroller-2.pdf Kadoglidou, K. I., Krommydas, K., Ralli, P., Mellidou, I., Kalyvas, A., & Irakli, M. (2022). Assessing Physicochemical Parameters, Bioactive Profile and Antioxidant Status of Different Fruit Parts of Greek Eggplant Germplasm. *Horticulturae*, *8*(12), 1113. https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8121113 ‌ Marschner, H. (2011). *Marschner's mineral nutrition of higher plants*. Academic Press. *Soil Acidity and liming: Basic information for farmers and gardeners \| NC State Extension Publications*. (n.d.). https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/soil-acidity-and-liming-basic-information-for-farmers-and-gardeners Soltanpour, P. N., & Schwab, A. P. (1977). A new soil test for simultaneous extraction of macro‐ and micro‐nutrients in alkaline soils. *Communications in Soil Science and Plant Analysis*, *8*(3), 195--207. https://doi.org/10.1080/00103627709366714 Weil, R. R., & Brady, N. C. (2017). The Nature and Properties of Soils. 15th edition. *ResearchGate*.https://www.researchgate.net/publication/301200878\_The\_Nature\_and\_Properties\_of\_Soils\_15th\_edition