AeroTech: An Automated Aeroponics MonitoringSystem for Lettuce Cultivation

Abstract

This study presents AeroTech, an automated aeroponics monitoring system developed in Midsayap to address challenges in traditional soil-based farming, including excessive water consumption, soil degradation, and limited crop monitoring. Using a developmental research approach, the system was designed, assembled, and evaluated using aeroponic cultivation technology integrated with Internet of Things (IoT) components. The materials used included pH, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), temperature, and water-level sensors, an Arduino Nano, an ESP32 microcontroller, a TFT display, GSM module, cloud-based monitoring platform, and a solar-powered energy system with battery backup. These components were integrated to monitor environmental conditions, regulate nutrient delivery, and provide real-time data access and SMS notifications. The developed system enabled continuous monitoring of key growth parameters through a cloud dashboard and local display, while automated controls helped maintain optimal nutrient conditions for plant growth. Evaluation results showed that AeroTech effectively optimized water use, maintained stable environmental conditions, and reduced the need for manual intervention in leafy vegetable production. The system also demonstrated scalability, cost-effectiveness, and suitability for precision agriculture applications, particularly in areas with limited or unreliable electricity. Furthermore, AeroTech supports sustainable farming practices and contributes to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Zero Hunger, Clean Water and Sanitation, Affordable and Clean Energy, and Responsible Consumption and Production.