Application of technology of Internet of Things to SmartHome in remote care of plants and feeding of pets

Abstract

This project aims to carry out a proof of concept of Internet application of Things for the system of care of domestic plants and feeding of pets, controlled and monitored via web software or remote application by the user, in a SmartHome technology architecture. A successful prototype of both mechanisms using the Arduino platform, sensors, actuators and WiFi modules based on ESP8266 has been carried out over the period 2015-2016, which has generated great commercial interest even in presentations at sector fairs. However, we believe that in order to become a highly differentiated / longevity commercial product, it is necessary to invest in research and development to improve both products in relation to the state-of-the-art of IoT technologies in SmartHome, as well as usability and User experience. In relation to both solutions, we consider as the main research challenge and item of greater uncertainty as to the commercial success of the proposed technologies, the evaluation and improvement of usability and user experience, both in terms of the physical device and the software interfaces, taking Such as studies and theories of Human-Computer Interaction (IHC) and Design Thinking methodology. Another challenge common to both solutions is the architecture definition so that both applications (and future potential applications) can be integrated into the same SmartHome platform, maximizing the value potential that can be added to the solution. As technological challenges regarding the care solution of domestic plants we have the addition of environmental sensors (luminosity / temperature) and degree of soil fertilization (in addition to the existing moisture sensor), as well as the transition to a sensing solution. And irrigation performance without mains power, using wireless communication and firmware design and hardware prepared for very low power consumption in order to maximize the autonomy of the system acting on the battery. Regarding the pet food solution, the technological challenge is to improve the feeder mechanism, as well as the mechanisms of distance interaction and supply level sensing in the animal's internal storage and bowl, which may in future be associated with a Recurrent supply replenishment platform, linking the consumer directly with the animal food industry. In addition, integration studies of devices with aggregation and data processing platforms will be further developed to provide intelligent and useful services to users. (AU)