2.

1 Design idea
2.4.1 Design idea description
The design of my innovative greywater recycling system using advanced technology
and green approaches goes beyond providing water for crop irrigation to transform the
way water is used altogether. There is a smart pH sensor to give the water an acidity
level that plants can thrive from at the core of the system. This smart pH meter is
equipped with a mobile phone whose Tuya Smart app controls the whole recycling
process by offering you real-time data through any location. To make the system
functional, I decide to use a rechargeable battery, which also bolsters the capability of
solar panels to power up the system at all times without contributing to environmental
pollution. Braving these challenges is what the system is all about to respond to the
concerns over water loss and the sustainability of agriculture. This is achieved by
reusing grey water from the households or the agricultural processes. This reused
water will not only provide a relief to freshwater resources but also, will be an
economical way to pump moisture to farms to supply water to the crops. Let's take the
instance of a farmer in a remote setting, who can use our resource recycling system to
recycle water from domestic sources like kitchen sinks and the laundry for sprinkler
irrigation during dry seasons, thus increasing crop yield and ensuring food security in
the community. My innovative policy is developing an initiative that entails
encouraging environmental responsibility and people's ability to become an agent of
change regarding water prevention efforts.
https://climatebiz.com/greywater-system/

2.4.2 Design specifications

2.4.2.1 Hardware requirements
Smart pH Meter:
The smarts pH sensor is a vital device, which is responsible for the measurement of
the acidity or alkalinity of the treated greywater. Before this, the design of the system
should be created to include highly precise sensors that can accurately determine the
pH level in water. For example, the pH meter can host advanced electrochemical
sensors, a relationship which will ensure correct and effective data readings.

Mobile Phone & Tuya Smart App: The motorisation system requires a mobile phone
with an installed Tuya Smart app that allows regulating and controlling the greywater
recycling process at a distance. This mobile device acts as a human-machine interface
via which a user can log in to a system or application and make changes to settings as
required. This app can effectively show all of the pH levels, water usage, and system
status so that users can have an insight into their plants. For example, app users can
get an SMS reminding them in case pH values become out of limit. They will be able
to take corrective measures when this happens.

Rechargeable Battery Supply: The backup-rechargeable battery supply makes the

greywater recycling system continue its operation even in the case of low insolation
or at night. Using the rechargeable battery backup, the solar energy generated during
the daytime is stored in excess. The rechargeable batteries are meant to supply power
to the system at sunset or on cloudy days.
https://solarbuy.com/solar-101/types-of-solar-batteries/

Solar Power: The greywater recycling system has solar power as the main energy
introduction. Solar panels affixed on-site utilize incoming sunlight and convert it into
electricity, powering all the system’s distributors, such as the smart pH sensor, mobile
phone and rechargeable battery. This eco-friendly alternative acts as an
uninterruptible power supply source and a way to cut down business expenses. For
instance, it is possible to obtain solar excess electricity on a sunny day that can be
stored in rechargeable batteries for later use to provide a reliable and stable system in
insufficient light conditions.
https://eleven-magazine.com/solar-panels-to-greywater-systems-exploring-the-latest-
sustainable-house-technologies/

Water tank: A water tank is a device that is present in a greywater system and serves
as a place where gathered greywater awaits to be treated or reused. It allows for the
greywater saving from sinks, showers and wash machines, thus establishing a
concentrated water source, which later on can be treated and distributed for purposes
of non-potable uses irrigation.
https://www.wwdmag.com/what-is-articles/article/10940672/what-is-water-tank-
storage

Water valve: The water value in a greywater recycling device is the valve which
manages greywater flow from the origin of greywater (sinks, bathtubs and laundries)
to the treatment and reuse system. Consequently, it dictates the greywater influx into
the system so that the system can process the water with the best possible efficiency
and without major problems like overflowing or underflowing the system.
https://www.freshwatersystems.com/blogs/blog/a-guide-to-plumbing-valve-types

Biofilter: The biofilter in a greywater system works to eliminate toxic pathogens and
organic matter from the water by the usual activities of microbial life that usually
thrive well in the given environment. This ensures that the water turned grey is
purified and no longer suitable for the primary irrigation.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/biofilter

Pipes: The function of the pipe in a greywater recycling water system is to take
utilized water from faucets, showers, bathtubs, washers and take it to a treatment or
filtration system where it can be cleaned and then used for irrigation purposes.
https://toplineindustries.in/blog/choosinga-pump-piping-and-disposal-system-for-
greywater-harvesting/

Sand/Gravel filter: The sand/gravel filter in the graywater recycling system serve to
filter out bigger particles, dirt and sediments particles from the greywater before it
undergoes the next treatment or reuse process. Having the filter installed enable the
system to not get clogged or damaged by particulates that can destroy downstream
components like pumps and membranes, allowing the operation of the system to be
efficient at all times.
https://www.wecf.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/
Manualgreywaterfilter_website.pdf

Irrigation pipes: Irrigation pipes in a greywater recycling system, on the other hand,
function by delivering treated greywater to plants and landscaping for watering
vegetation, which in turn makes the freshwater resources to be spared. The pipes are
responsible for conveying recycled water from the treatment units to the allotted areas
of plant, garden and agricultural field watering.
https://www.smartwatermark.org/smartwateradvice/saving-water-garden/greywater/
using-greywater/greywater-watering/

Timer: The role of the timer in the greywater recycling water system is to limit the
time water flows into the reuse faucet. It facilitates users to appoint particular
moments during which the water the greywater tank is pumped or directed to
irrigation systems, the latter one is chosen depending on the user.

Sprinkle: The purpose of a sprinkle on agraywater recycling water system is to

disperse treated graywater uniformly over the desired area like lawn and garden for
the purpose of irrigation.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/283742113_Greywater_reuse_systems_for_
toilet_flushing_in_high-rise_residential_buildings_A_review

2.4.2.2 Software requirements

Real-Time Data Synchronization: It is essential to guarantee real-time pH data
synchronization by connecting the smart pH meter with the smartphone, and the Tuya
Smart app. It should be an information provider that is always current and has the
capability of giving users data to determine whether the irrigation of crops or crops
are being overwatered. Example: As the smart pH meter detects shifts in water pH
levels, the app on the Tuya Smart platform immediately gets an update, resulting in
the user having the possibility to monitor the indicators even when off-site.

2.4.3.1 Benefits of design idea

2.4.3.2 Impacts of design idea

Water conservation is essential to sinking the stocks of these freshwater
resources. One of the methods that can be used to save water is the adoption of water
greywater. A greywater is a wastewater of which origin is sinks, showers or washing
machines and could be reused directly for different non-potables
applications. Through the diversion of greywater to activities such as irrigation and
flushing toilets, we not only decrease the load on our freshwater supplies, but also
make sure that we have a healthy and safe water sustainable source for retail use.

In addition, the role of environmental protection in water reusable is yet another

important concern. by treating greywater and reusing it which would otherwise be
thrown away leads to the reduction of pollution of natural water reservoirs. In this
way, the water quality is maintained while all types of organisms who live in the
aquatic environment that need clean water are safe. Through use of less polluting
methods, we make contribution to all the environment's wellbeing and create the
future in which everyone can live in a prosperous way.

Greywater utilization is one of the most important aspect because not only it does
save costs. This can be achieved through utilizing a wastewater treatment process
with which the water that would normally be thrown out is recycled, leading to a great
reduction of water usage. Therefore water users are rewarded by savings on their
water bills and wastewater costs resulting from such an initiative. For saving money
and also for conserving the valuable water resources which is rare, greywater systems
can be installed by individuals or communities.
The system also offers financial savings as well as efficiency improvements in energy
consumption. Most greywater systems run by solar energy with batteries and save the
energy that we would have otherwise wasted. The buffering up of the grid by making
use of intermittent electricity helps the system be energy independent and therefore
with time the power costs can as well be drastically reduced.

Along with that, greywater systems have the technology inbuilt in the system which
has smart monitoring systems. This technology then helps in monitoring water quality
in the real-time mode with the help of a pH tester that is intelligent and mobile
apps. Through monitoring system operation users can see if the plant's or tank
greywater disposal is functioning properly and discovering opportunities for the
system's improvement. The positive management philosophy in water is focused on
the required quantity of water and judicious consumption, aiming at the most efficient
use and less waste, and this will ultimately result in a more sustainable water usage.

2.4.3.3 Guiding principles

The first principle follow is Access & Equity. Our mobile phone application is
designed to be inclusive, giving everyone access to crucial water management
information and ensuring fair distribution. It doesn't matter where you live or your
social status; this system allows equal participation for all. Whether you're a farmer in
a rural area or a homeowner in the city, you now have the power to manage water
resources just like anyone else, breaking down barriers that used to limit access to
only a select few.

The second principle is Health & Safety. By constantly monitoring pH levels with our
recycle pH meter, our system ensures that crops are irrigated properly, keeping both
plants and people safe and healthy. This helps prevent harm to plants and individuals,
maintaining safety standards and building confidence in the reliability of recycled
water for agricultural use.

The third principle is Appropriateness. With its integration of batteries and solar
power, our system remains functional even in areas with unreliable electricity, making
it suitable for various environmental conditions, from remote villages to busy towns.
This adaptability ensures that communities can access it regardless of infrastructure
limitations, proving its convenience and suitability for different settings.

Affordability is the fourth guiding principle. By using solar power and rechargeable
batteries, our system reduces long-term operational costs. This approach not only
saves money but also allows communities with limited resources to manage
maintenance and operations sustainably. This affordability improves access, enabling
more communities to enjoy the benefits of our system.

The fifth principle adhere to is Environmental Health. By recycling greywater for

irrigation and other purposes, we minimize water waste and pollution, contributing to
environmental preservation. This helps conserve resources and reduce pollution,
playing a vital role in maintaining environmental health. This effort benefits
ecosystems and community well-being by promoting sustainable water usage
practices.
Finally, our sixth guiding principle is Sustainable Livelihoods. Embracing water
conservation and sustainable practices leads to a way of life that benefits both people
and nature in the long term. Communities can move from relying on finite resources
to managing resources sustainably, especially important in dry regions where every
drop matters for securing a better future. This shift towards sustainability supports
vulnerable populations and fosters resilient livelihoods in the face of changing
environmental conditions.

2.4.4 Constraints of design idea

It is possible that human beings will develop a strong dependency on technology
which can lead to the breakup of their systems because of numerous reasons, one of
them being the problem with tech support and possible software updates as well as
incompatibility. There comes the moment when service firms totally depend on
mobile apps and smart devices. Anything wrong with them can set off a domino of
system disorders. Example: when a new software update is released, and the hardware
is not compatible with this update or other software components, it causes operational
problems which are very annoying and often leads to dissatisfaction in the end.

Additionally, the main concern is the upkeeps and maintenance of smart systems
which is a bedrock of the efficiency of technology. Generic servicing is required to do
some jobs like battery replacement, software and app upgrades as well as sensor
calibration. These long-term processes, however, need a lot of manpower and
operation costs, which ultimately lead to accountability towards the local
economy. Lack of system maintenance which can happen over time will lead to
organizations or municipalities recording low performance and thus low reliability
and effectiveness.

Very much like solar-powered devices, environmental circumstances play a

significant role in the operations of solar system as well. Solar panel power output
suffers the reduction from clouds as well as the sunlight shadowing on the face of the
earth. On a cloudy or even a skipped sunshine day the system effectiveness can lower
producing low energy demand. This dependability on variable energy sources brings
different results and unpredictability into system, so it creates difficulties in the
system functioning. There is a constant fear among the power generation and supply
companies.

Financial dispensations of installing smart technology and solar panels at the

beginning is a cause of embarrassment for many, as it is hard for them. The sum of
the money required to purchase and install the infrastructure is a major
expenditure. This financial disbursement might discourage others to accept these
technologies and the fact that it may especially happen to those who cannot afford
them or more on these resourceful things. This may cause a constraint on the
implementation of green solutions across the society thus limiting the full potential of
environmentally-friendly approaches.

Although the smart technology could creatively save water as greywater recycling,
recycling of green produces plus handling of electronic waste are the issues existing
in this smart technology field. The manufacture of goods entails extraction and
processing of raw materials and the impact on environment due to it can be
negative. In addition, occasional disposal of electronic waste may cause
environmental pollution and degradation of land and water resources. On one side,
these technologies may bring vital environmental benefits; however, they entail some
negative impacts as well and thus their lifecycle management has become an
environmental necessity.

2.4.5 Extras
Greywater recycle installations have become a sustainable alternative, allowing water
resources to be maintained while avoiding the excessive use of limited freshwater
sources. Greywater is the name for the water that is made waste when people are in
the bath, their clothes are in the laundry, or their dishes are being washed, and it can
be treated and reused for anything else that does not require drinkable water, such as
irrigation. Generally grey water in this system is rinsed off from sinks, showers,
washing machines, after which it is purified through removal of the impurities and
then fed for irrigation of plants using drip irrigation or other methods. Such process is
usually done by filtration, sedimentation, and disinfection so as to eliminate any
contaminants from the water hence making it safe for agricultural use. Also, where
the system of greywater recycling can be applied in agriculture is not only restricted
to reducing the stress on wastewater treatment plants but also aids in mitigating the
environmental impact of the wastewater discharge, and thus conservation of the
natural environment. Indeed, the correct hygiene, right designing and on-site plant
specificity shall improve the utility of greywater irrigation in agriculture in the best
manner.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5083881/