A Smart Sensor Network for an Automated Urban Greenhouse

An effective and efficient sensor network is an essential component of an automated urban greenhouse (AUG). This paper describes a design process that prototyped a smart sensor network as part of a capstone design project. This smart sensor network communicates among sensing, power and automation, and visualization and user interface aspects of the AUG to provide automatic monitoring of lighting, heating, watering, and ventilation. This automated urban greenhouse, along with the sensor network, is being installed at a local elementary school in downtown York, Pennsylvania. It will serve as an educational tool and create awareness of the importance of fresh foods.