Design and construction of an automation system to improve the germination process in indirect planting based on vertical farming

Abstract

Modern agriculture faces the challenge of producing
sustainably in the face of resource scarcity and climatic
variability. In this context, vertical farming emerges as
an innovative alternative that allows environmental
conditions to be controlled in order to optimize plant
growth in limited spaces. However, early processes
such as germination still largely depend on unstable
environmental factors that affect the uniformity and
efficiency of seedlings. In response, an automated
system was developed to optimize these variables.
The research was applied and experimental in nature, involving a technical and theoretical review of
automated agricultural systems, followed by the
physical design of the prototype and the selection of
sensors, actuators, and controllers. The system was
powered by solar energy and integrated automated
routines to maintain temperature, humidity,
and light within optimal ranges for germination.
The constructed prototype enabled automatic
monitoring and adjustment of environmental
variables, achieving a stable controlled environment.
The results confirm that the automated vertical
farming system is a viable, sustainable, and scalable
alternative. Its implementation improves germination
efficiency, promotes the rational use of resources,
and contributes to the development of resilient
agricultural models capable of addressing current
environmental challenges.