Valencia College
Proposed Project Ideas
Idea-1: Portable Wind-Solar Water Purifier
Overview
The Portable Solar-Wind Water Purifier is a lightweight, portable device made for campers, hikers, outdoor enthusiasts, and emergency circumstances. It combines small wind turbine and solar panels to generate renewable energy to run a water filtration system. The device guarantees that people in isolated and off-grid areas have access to safe and clean drinking water. [1]
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Physical Features
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Easy to transport because of its small and lightweight design.
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Sunlight harvesting solar panels integrated into the system.
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A compact and effective wind turbine for the collection of wind energy.
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User-friendly UI with indicators for power status and water purification progress.
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Designed to be lightweight for improved portability.
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Functionality
Energy Gathering: During the day, solar panels absorb light and transform it into electrical energy. In the evening, a small wind turbine turns wind energy into electricity to supplement the existing solar power for continuous energy gathering.
Water Purification System:
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Removes impurities from untreated water sources so that it is safe for consumption.
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The core system uses a variety of purification techniques, such as physical filtration, UV-C sterilization, or chemical treatments.
Power Management:
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A battery stores extra energy for ongoing operation during periods of low sunlight or wind.
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A smart power management system optimizes energy utilization.
User Interaction:
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Easy-to-use controls enable users to initiate and track the purification process.
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User-friendly interface with displays for power status, purification progress, and battery level.
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Marketability
Target Audience:
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Outdoor enthusiasts (hikers, campers, and backpackers).
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Organizations that provide disaster relief and emergency response teams.
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People who live in isolated places with little access to potable water.
Unique Selling Points (USPs):
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Sustainable and off-grid water filtration solution.
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The continuous production of power through the integration of wind and solar energy.
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Convenience is improved during outdoor activities by the design's compact and portable nature.
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Versatile application in various outdoor conditions and emergency situations.
Market Potential:
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Addresses the increasing demand for portable and sustainable water filtration solutions.
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Potential markets include outdoor retail, disaster preparedness, and environmental conservation.
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Appeals to eco-conscious consumers seeking eco-friendly and renewable energy options.
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Block Diagram
![Water purification block diagram.png](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/748801_17d4712e8baf4f14b5a374e79e51c22c~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_268,h_815,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/Water%20purification%20block%20diagram.png)
Idea-2: Portable Energy Harvester
Description
The Portable Energy Harvester is a piezoelectric charger designed for urban commuters and individuals living active lifestyles. This compact charging solution efficiently harvests energy by combining solar and piezoelectric technologies, making it a self-sustaining energy source. The combination of solar panels and piezoelectric transducers, which allow it to absorb mechanical vibrations and boost energy capture through sunlight exposure, and its compact size makes this gadget a perfect travel companion. [2]
Functionality
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Hybrid energy Harvesting
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LED Light
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Lightweight and portable
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USB Ports
Marketability
The Portable Energy Harvester is marketed for those with an active lifestyle, providing a sustainable and convenient charging solution for their electronic devices.
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Block Diagram
![Piezoelectric block diagram updated.PNG](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/748801_2b1d0b43b86b41d0b7a9065ea751d65a~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_454,h_706,al_c,lg_1,q_85,enc_avif,quality_auto/Piezoelectric%20block%20diagram%20updated_PNG.png)
Idea-3: Sustaina-Street Lights
Overview
LED streetlights that run on solar and wind power provide an all-encompassing solution for economical and environmentally friendly outdoor illumination. Smart lighting solutions are a progressive option for contemporary urban infrastructure since they combine smart lighting technology with renewable energy sources. Given the rising trend of urban power consumption, it is imperative that states and cities explore alternative sources of energy production. An LED Street light typically consumes between 55 to 80 watts of power, while their power consumption can vary from 35 to 250 watts (depending on the type of bulb used and the placement of the light). Cities may drastically cut down on the amount of energy consumed for street lighting by switching to solar-wind power for street illumination. [3]
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Physical Features
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Modular construction will make maintenance and assembly simple.
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Enclosures resistant to weather for every component.
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Motion sensors to improve energy efficiency.
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Accessibility to features for simple upkeep.
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Functionality
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Power Generation and Storage
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Solar Panels – sunlight is converted into electricity.
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Wind Turbine – using wind to generate more electricity.
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Power generated from solar and wind is stored in battery.
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Smart Lighting Management
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LED lights adapt their brightness to the level of surrounding light.
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When motion is detected, lights are turned on by motion sensors.
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Cost Saving
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Long-term reduction in energy costs.
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Potential for long-term return on investment (ROI)
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Application
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Illumination in residential neighborhoods, business places, and public locations.
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Suitable for remote or off-grid sites.
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Capacity to provide emergency lighting in the event of a power outage.
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Marketability
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Marketing:
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Communities, enterprises, urban planners, and governments are among the target markets.
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Appeals to environmentally friendly customers and organizations.
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Focuses on the expanding need for environmentally friendly infrastructure.
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Possibility of joint ventures with regional administrations and energy companies.
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Benefits:
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Decreased dependency on the grid and independent energy use.
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Sustainable environmental practices and reduced carbon emissions.
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Flexibility for use in off-grid, rural, and urban areas.
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Cost savings and potential for long-term ROI.
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Dependability under diverse environmental circumstances.
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Block Diagram
![Solar_Wind_Streetlights (1).jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/748801_b728dfe10fa7495b98c3c796c142ba39~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_339,h_636,al_c,lg_1,q_80,enc_avif,quality_auto/Solar_Wind_Streetlights%20(1).jpg)
Idea-4: RFID Locked Door Powered by Piezoelectric Mat
Overview
The system utilizes RFID technology for secure access control. An RFID reader authenticates users through RFID cards or tags. The piezoelectric mat, which captures the mechanical energy of someone standing on it and converts it to electrical energy, powers the locking mechanism. The storage bank is a battery backup, storing excess energy from the mat. The controller unit regulates the door lock mechanism, which only unlocks in response to a legitimate RFID signal and sufficient power from the storage bank or piezoelectric mat. [4]
Functionality
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Generates electricity through footsteps.
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Secure access control without traditional power source
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Controller unit to manage power distribution and emergency power bank
Marketability
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This product is targeted for use in commercial, residential, and government facilities requiring a secure access control system.
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The Low-power mode, and storage bank allow for enhanced security and efficiency even with loss of power.
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The market potential for the RFID locked door system is substantial, driven by the increasing demand for advanced access control and security solutions, the growing interest in sustainable technologies, and the appeal to residential users seeking modern security and businesses prioritizing emergency-ready features.
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Block Diagram
![zach new idea.PNG](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/748801_f9a140470793498ea78f0003d6392db4~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_485,h_659,al_c,q_85,enc_avif,quality_auto/zach%20new%20idea_PNG.png)
Idea-5: Sustaina-Street Lights (Revised)
Overview
An LED Street light typically consumes between 35 to 100 watts of power, while their power consumption can vary from 35 to 250 watts (depending on the type of bulb used). Cities may drastically cut down on the amount of energy consumed for street lighting by switching to solar-wind power for street illumination. [5]
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Functionality
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Modular construction will make maintenance and assembly simple.
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Resistant to weather for every component.
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Motion and possessors to improve energy efficiency
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Accessibility to features for simple upkeep.
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Integrate display module to the base of the street light to display current:
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Temperature
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Humidity
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UV Index
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Battery level
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Wind speed
Functionality:
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Power Generation and Storage
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Solar Panels – sunlight is converted into electricity.
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Wind Turbine – using wind to generate more electricity.
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Power generated from solar and wind is stored in battery.
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Display Module displaying relevant information to the area
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Real-time: temperature, humidity, air quality, UV index, and wind speed
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Smart Lighting Management
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LED lights adapt their brightness to the level of surrounding light.
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When motion is detected, lights are turned on by motion sensors.
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Cost Saving
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Long-term reduction in energy costs.
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Potential for long-term return on investment (ROI)
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Application
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Illumination in residential neighborhoods and businesses off the coast
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Suitable for remote or off-grid sites.
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Capacity to provide emergency lighting in the event of a power outage.
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Marketability:
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Benefits:
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Decreased dependency on the grid and independent energy use.
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Flexibility for use in off-grid, rural, and urban areas.
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Cost savings and potential for long-term ROI.
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Dependability under diverse environmental circumstances.
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Provide passerby with relevant data collected within the area
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Marketing:
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Communities off the coast, where max wind energy can be harvested
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Appeals to environmentally friendly customers and organizations.
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Possibility of joint ventures with regional administrations and energy companies
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Block Diagram
![Solar_Wind_Streetlights_New.jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/748801_f213b7ab36704180aac51e6981efbbd5~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_755,h_599,al_c,lg_1,q_85,enc_avif,quality_auto/Solar_Wind_Streetlights_New.jpg)
Idea-6: Portable Hybrid Power System
Overview
The Portable Hybrid Power System is a compact, versatile power solution designed especially for outdoor events and gatherings. It integrates a small wind turbine with solar panels to produce a portable, renewable energy source. This enables it to supply various electrical gadgets used during outdoor activities with a steady, eco-friendly power source. [6]
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Important characteristics
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Solar Panels: Effective solar panels collect solar radiation and convert it into electrical energy.
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Wind Turbine: To augment the production of electricity, a small wind turbine captures wind energy.
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Battery Storage: When there is little sunlight or wind, a rechargeable battery can store extra energy for later use.
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Inverter and controller: Control the power flow by transforming DC electricity into AC power for devices.
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Portability: Made to be easily assembled, disassembled, and transported to various outdoor event venues.
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Adaptive Charging: In response to the environmental circumstances, the system adjusts the charging process.
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Versatility: Able to run a range of electronics, such as small appliances, lighting, charging stations, and sound systems.
Features
Harvesting Energy:
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During the day, solar panels collect sunlight and transform it into electrical energy. And a small wind turbine will generate extra power by gathering wind energy.
Storage of Batteries:
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Rechargeable batteries are used to store excess energy produced for periods of little wind or sunlight.
Distribution of Power:
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The controller and inverter control how power is distributed, transforming battery-derived DC power into AC power for various devices.
Adjustable Power Supply:
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The technology maximizes the utilization of available solar and wind energy by modifying the charging procedure in response to current environmental circumstances.
Mobility:
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Because of its simple setup and transportation, it may be used in a variety of outdoor settings and events.
Marketability
Target Audience:
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Event planners for sporting events, concerts, festivals, and other outdoor activities.
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Eco-friendly and sustainable event coordinators.
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Businesses that rent out equipment for outdoor events.
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Block Diagram
![Jordan new.png](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/748801_ce5c2ccae7464d1f90c88babc0d945f4~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_424,h_815,al_c,q_85,enc_avif,quality_auto/Jordan%20new.png)
Idea:7 Smart Garden
Overview
The Automated Smart Garden is an integrated system designed to improve plant care and generate ideal climatic conditions by fusing automated technology with contemporary gardening approaches. This system offers a complete solution for efficient and hassle-free gardening, suitable for beginners and experienced gardeners. [7]
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Functionality
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Automated Sunshade:
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Sunlight intensity sensors monitor outdoor light conditions.
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Automated shade system adjusts to provide shade during peak sunlight hours.
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Automated Watering System:
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Soil moisture sensors detect the need for watering.
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A drip irrigation system delivers precise amounts of water, including nutrients, to plants.
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Easy-to-Read Indicator Lights:
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LED indicator lights provide a simple visual status of soil moisture, system status, and potential pest issues.
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Marketability
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Appeals to those looking for an easy-to-use, automated solution.
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Tailored for homeowners with limited gardening space.
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Offers a convenient and automated solution for those with busy lifestyles.
Block Diagram
![Zachs Idea 3.PNG](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/748801_3a68708a21a745afbdc96c87cf78e411~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_897,h_552,al_c,q_90,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/Zachs%20Idea%203_PNG.png)
Idea:8 Color Recognition Device for the Visually Impaired
Overview
The Color Recognition Device for the Visually Impaired is a compact and handheld electronic device designed to assist individuals with visual impairments in identifying and distinguishing colors in their surroundings.
Important Characteristics
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Color sensors: Integrated RGB sensors or color detectors that can distinguish a wide range of colors with accuracy under different lighting circumstances (APDS-9960).
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Feedback Mechanism: Provides the user with color information through tactile vibrations or audible messages. For ease of identification, different colors are associated with distinctive vibration patterns or unique noises.
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User Interface: Features a tactile button or switch interface that is easy to operate and straightforward. Enables users to carry out standard operations such sensitivity adjustment, calibration, and power on/off.
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Compact and Portable Design: Made to be a lightweight, portable device for effortless portability. Its small form factor makes it convenient for users to carry around in a variety of settings.
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Battery-Powered: Equipped with a rechargeable battery for effortless recharging and portability. Carries out effective power management to extend battery life.
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Audio Output for Color Names (Optional): This optional feature gives consumers more auditory information by announcing the names of colors that have been detected.
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Durable Construction: Uses durable materials to withstand frequent usage and possible falls. May come with a covering or protective case to increase durability. [8]
Functionality
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Color Recognition Algorithm: Utilizes a strong color recognition algorithm to handle sensor data. converts sensor readings into user-friendly color information.
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Microcontroller: Processes sensor data, manages the feedback mechanism, and handles user interface interactions using a microcontroller (such an Arduino).
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Feedback Mechanism Design: Puts in place a system that, in response to colors recognized, emits audible or tactile signals. Distinguishes between different feedback patterns to help users correctly comprehend and interpret the information.
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Creates a user-friendly interface using haptic switches or buttons using user interface design. Offers options that are easy to use to change the sensitivity and other settings.
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Testing and Prototyping: This process involves making prototypes for validation and testing. Carries out usability testing with people who are blind or visually impaired to get input for future enhancements.
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Features
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Handheld
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Must be pressed against whatever color you want to be detected.
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Catered towards the Color-Blind and people going blind (was once able to see color).
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Meant for household use
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Marketability
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Target Audience: The device is specifically designed for individuals with visual impairments, targeting a niche market where there is a need for accessible and practical tools to enhance daily living.
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Impact on Accessibility: Fulfills a vital requirement for people with visual impairments by giving them a tool that improves their capacity to recognize and distinguish between colors in a variety of settings.
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Ease of Use: With its easily modifiable settings and straightforward user interface, even those with little to no technical experience may operate the device with ease.
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Portability: The device's small size and portability make it more marketable and enable customers to carry it easily with them wherever they go.
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Durability: By offering a dependable and strong solution, the product's durable structure guarantees a longer lifespan and boosts its marketability.
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Cost-Effectiveness: In order to reach a wider audience within the target market, the device is designed to be reasonably priced and cost-effective.
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Colors we’re attempting to recognize:
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Block Diagram
![color chart.png](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/748801_2cda3779272446d696beaad912b55e60~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_518,h_434,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/color%20chart.png)
![jordan idea4.png](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/748801_e7c1a4f4d30b4797925e58de97706e90~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_170,h_910,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/jordan%20idea4.png)
Engineering Requirements
![color detector eng.PNG](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/748801_65b3476f926340fa892f6716e4d7574a~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_565,h_662,al_c,q_90,enc_avif,quality_auto/color%20detector%20eng_PNG.png)
Idea-9: Automatic Patio Sliding Door
Overview
Automatic patio sliding door system provides homeowners and renters with convenience, accessibility, and energy saving by automatically open or close sliding doors without the need of manual intervention. The device is attached to the top of the door frame for convenience and out of the way of the user whenever going to their patio. [9]
Functionality
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Motor & Drive Mechanism – use brushless DC motor with gear for smooth linear motion.
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A belt system with series of grooves corresponding to gear teeth on motor.
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Motor uses position sensing, current sensing, and limit switch to start/ stop the motor
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Control System – microcontroller is used for motor control, sensor data, user inputs.
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Sensors
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Motion Sensors – use passive infrared (PIR) sensors detect user presence
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Obstacle Detection Sensor – ultrasonic sensor to detect obstructions in doors path
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Door positioning sensor – keep track of the door position at all times
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Proximity and RFID sensors – to detect pets
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Power Supply – Power supply system designed to power the motor, sensors, and microcontrollers.
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User interface
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Keypad device on each side of the door
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Outside device
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small keypad to input 2–6-digit password to enter
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if system is in AUTO – doors will open
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Inside device – have settings for the user to control the door
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Open / Close Door - hand wave over wall device
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AUTO – open when motion is detected and close after
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ON / OFF – enable/ disable device, when OFF the motor will move freely
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Pet Mode – if RFID and motion sensor is triggered for several seconds, the door will open quarter of the way and close after
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Emergency Stop – stop the door for any reason
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Marketability
Automatic sliding door system is tailored for residents of all age and pet owners who can benefit from automated door solutions. The system is designed for safety and simplicity in mind.
User will
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Convenience - Users' everyday convenience is increased through effortless operation.
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Accessibility - The system makes things more accessible, which is especially helpful for people who have trouble moving about.
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Security – Door will close after pets or residents without user input required
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Block Diagram
![auto slidding glass door.drawio (1).png](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/748801_b4dc581a76bf4b5a8e7d4f445ccd5fd5~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_649,h_403,al_c,lg_1,q_85,enc_avif,quality_auto/auto%20slidding%20glass%20door_drawio%20(1).png)
Engineering Requirements
![glass door engineering specs.PNG](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/748801_0affbe43e7734802a19456a3a3b9e8c2~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_600,h_400,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/glass%20door%20engineering%20specs_PNG.png)
Idea-10: Automated Blinds
Overview
An inventive way to improve convenience, energy economy, and comfort in homes and businesses is the automatic blind system that runs on solar power. By limiting the amount of solar heat that enters the house, this technology seeks to minimize consumers' energy costs. The system will operate quietly, with its discrete architecture and hidden units that ensure silent automation. The gadget's customizable timed settings and optional battery backup guarantee uninterrupted automation, optimized privacy, power efficiency, and device dependability while preserving subtlety. [10]
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Functionality:
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Solar Power Integration: Solar panels installed on windows or areas with optimal sunlight exposure will power the automated blinds.
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Light Sensing Technology: Integrated light sensors detect the intensity of sunlight entering through the windows. Based on this data, The blinds autonomously adjust, ensuring optimal light levels indoors while minimizing solar heat gain.
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Automated Operation: The blinds open or close automatically in response to changing light conditions, user-defined schedules, or remote commands.
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Customizable Settings: Users can personalize their experience to suit their preferences through settings such as timers, sensitivity levels of light sensors, and preferred operating modes, i.e., manual override and vacation mode.
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Battery Backup: Equipped with a battery backup system that kicks in during periods of low solar exposure or in the event of a power outage, guaranteeing continuous functionality.
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Quiet and Unobtrusive Design: The motorized blinds operate quietly, minimizing disruption.
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Marketability:
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Energy Efficiency: Offers significant energy savings by reducing reliance on artificial lighting and minimizing solar heat gain.
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Convenience and Comfort: With automated operation and customizable settings, Solace enhances convenience and comfort for users.
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Privacy: Solace enhances privacy by allowing users to adjust the blinds remotely.
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Versatility: Solace caters to both residential and commercial markets, offering versatility in application.
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Block Diagram
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Comparison Table
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![idea10 block diagram.PNG](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/748801_eaaf67f0309345f59d71923a4a7c60c8~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_564,h_544,al_c,lg_1,q_85,enc_avif,quality_auto/idea10%20block%20diagram_PNG.png)
![comparison table.png](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/748801_06db2114eaab4286b51bbf206d2540e2~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_896,h_256,al_c,lg_1,q_85,enc_avif,quality_auto/comparison%20table.png)
Idea-11: Automatic Cat Feeder
Overview
The idea is automated feeder is to dispense a correct amount of food for particular cat in the household. Many owners usually overfeed their pets and this product will help them portion control their pet’s food. The feeder incorporates a scale for measuring food levels and tracking the weight of individual cats, as well as RFID technology for identifying and distinguishing between multiple cats within the household. [11]
Functionality
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Convenience, easy to maintain, measure food for specific breads/ age of cats
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Designed for up to 2 cats (yet to be determined on exact amount)
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Weight the cat
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Scale is used to weigh the cat when at the feeder before eating
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This is to ensure the cat is getting correct amount of food
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Weight the food dispensed
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Scale on the bottom of the bowl will determine how much food is in the bowl
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This will track uneaten food by specific cat
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Dispersing food
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Each cat shall have RFID tag collar
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The system will know which cat is at the feeder because of RFID tag
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Dispense correct amount food in appropriate bowl based on cats needs
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Previously un-eaten food left in the bowl
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Food is dispensed, the bowl will rotate for appropriate cat to eat
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After cat leaves the feeder, the device will rotate to closed position
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User Interface
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User will select their cat breed, weight, and age of the cat from LCD/ buttons
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3 LEDs will light up depending on quantity of food in dispenser
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Red – out yellow – low green – full
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Marketability
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Convenience and Timesaving:
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Convenience of automatic feeding, especially for pet owners with busy schedules or those who travel frequently.
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Benefits users who may not always be available to feed their cats at specific times.
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Customization and Control:
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Features customizable feeding schedules, portion sizes, and meal frequencies to accommodate different cat dietary needs.
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Reliability and Durability:
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The feeder is reliable and durable.
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Quality materials that are safe for pets and easy to clean.
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User-Friendly Design:
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User-friendly interface that is easy to set up and navigate. Pet Safety:
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Secure locking mechanisms to prevent pets from accessing the food when it's not mealtime. •
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Materials used are non-toxic and pet friendly.
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Similar Products
![Automatic Cat Feeder.png](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/748801_461438c0e2544557a3f31d8ccc429baa~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_645,h_421,al_c,lg_1,q_85,enc_avif,quality_auto/Automatic%20Cat%20Feeder.png)