Date of Submission
Spring 5-1-2020
Degree Type
Undergraduate Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Architecture
Department
Architecture
Committee Chair/First Advisor
Arash Soleimani
Secondary Advisor
Elizabeth Martin
Abstract
Thesis Statement:
This research project aims to design, develop, and test an intelligent hydroponic system that can be integrated into the built environment for advancing sustainability.
Proposal:
Hydroponic systems are methods of growing plants in a water-based solution, which are currently used in vertical farming practices for food production. In this research, the hydroponic-regenerative or [Hydro-Gen] Cell is envisioned as biomechanical hybrid machinery that, while designed to be used in mid-to high rise buildings it would address sustainable aspects such as food production, enhancement of air cleaning capacity, and reduction of energy consumption. The project specifically aims at addressing the impact climate-crisis has had on the agriculture in the country of Mexico.
Through the application of the Arduino software the [Hydro-Gen] Cell will be an intelligent system with multiple applications that will optimize the way it performs based on the plant[s] its growing and its surroundings. By testing and growing crops in a controlled environment and by micromanaging different variables that affect a certain type of plants growth. A prototype of the system will be developed and fabricated using 3D parametric modeling software to produce the cellular organic module. The end results, at a larger scale, are buildings that will create a unique ecosystem, which can utilize resources effectively while providing opportunities for more sustainable buildings as well as encouraging equitable communities.