INSTRUCTION MANUAL
BROMELIAD
Table of contents
1. Introduction
2. Why is this project innovative?
3. Necessary Materials
4. How to Make It
5. How to Install It
1. Introduction:
"Bromeliads are very important terrestrial plants in the Atlantic Forest. They are considered
biodiversity enhancers because they create true ecosystems within their structure. This is because
these plants maintain a water reservoir between their leaves, which can reach several liters in some
species." — Scientific article from the University of São Paulo.
Depending on the species, this project aims to conserve water through sustainable agriculture by
economizing and reusing water. Given that both a lack of water and excess water can harm crops, this
project is based on a greenhouse that has a water reservoir, which can be filled in different ways, such
as by introducing water into the system, collecting rainwater, and absorbing the excess water from
irrigation. This idea addresses the need for water in crops while also promoting water conservation in
areas with low rainfall or drought.
To build this project, some materials will be needed, which, when compared to the benefits, will
require a low investment.
2. Why is this project innovative?
This project combines sustainable practices, material reuse, and automation to create an efficient and
eco-friendly greenhouse and irrigation system. The use of PET bottles, repurposed wood, and Arduino
technology forms a functional system for plant cultivation with automatic irrigation control,
contributing to a more rational use of water and supporting the healthy, sustainable growth of plants.
3. Necessary Materials for Building the Greenhouse:
- Wood
- Screws
- 3 hot glue sticks
- Dry coconut fiber
- 0.5L PET bottles
- 1.5L PET bottles
For the Digital Part
- 1 Arduino LEONARDO
- 1 400-point breadboard
- 2 vertical water level sensors
- 1 humidity sensor
- 1 meter of tubing
- 1 5V submersible water pump
4. Modo de fazer:
1. Measure the necessary dimensions for the water reservoir according to the size of your
greenhouse. Cut the wood planks to the correct dimensions.
2. Once the wood pieces are cut, begin assembling the reservoir by securely screwing the parts
together.
3. The wood needs to be treated to resist moisture. Apply a layer of waterproof paint or
eco-friendly varnish to protect the wood from water damage and prevent it from deteriorating
quickly.
4. To ensure that the wood does not come into direct contact with the water, line the reservoir
with durable plastic. This creates a barrier between the wood and the water, preventing the
structure from degrading.
5. To ensure that the wood does not come into direct contact with water, line the reservoir with
durable plastic. This creates a barrier between the wood and the water, preventing the
structure from degrading.
6. Drill holes in the bottom or sides of the reservoir to allow the water needed for irrigation to
enter. These holes will connect the reservoir to the irrigation system.
7. Take large PET bottles and cut them in half or into smaller parts, as needed. The bottles will
form columns that will help transport the water.
8. Use strong adhesive tape to join the parts of the bottles together, forming a column. Apply the
tape securely, ensuring that the joint is firm.
9. At the top of each column, attach the nozzles of two large PET bottles. Use hot glue to ensure
that the connections are firm and leak-proof.
10. To allow the water to flow down and irrigate the plants, make holes in the bottom of the
bottles, creating an efficient drainage system.
11. Start programming the Arduino, writing the code that will control the irrigation system. The
code should be able to read the moisture sensors and control the water pump.
12. Connect the plant moisture sensors to the Arduino. Use wires and connect them to the
breadboard.
13. Place the moisture sensors in the soil or in specific pots, near the plant roots, to monitor the
soil moisture level and activate the irrigation system as needed.
14. The Arduino, wires, and sensors should be housed in a 3D-printed box or a plastic enclosure
that can be adapted to protect the electronic system from moisture and ensure everything
works correctly.
15. To make the irrigators, cut small nozzles from PET bottles. These nozzles will be used to
direct the water to the plants.
16. Drill holes in the PET bottle nozzles to allow the water to be released in a controlled and
efficient way to the plants.
17. Use tubing to connect the irrigation nozzles to the water pump in the reservoir. The pump will
be responsible for drawing the water and distributing it through the irrigators.
18. If you're collecting rainwater, position a hose from the roof gutters to direct the water to the
reservoir, saving potable water.
19.
20. Use cut PET bottles, either in halves or other shapes, to create plant pots. Cut the bottles so
they can serve as containers for the soil and roots.
21. Fill the pots with a mix of soil and coconut fiber, ensuring that the plants have a good
substrate to grow in.
22. Place the plants in the pots, adjusting the roots so they are well distributed in the soil and
coconut fiber. Ensure that the roots are not compressed.
23. After connecting all the irrigation systems, sensors, and pots, do a final check to ensure all
components are functioning properly.
24. Activate the irrigation system and check if the water pump is working correctly based on the
data from the moisture sensor. Make sure the water flows through the irrigators and reaches
the plants.
25. If there are any leaks or malfunctions in the system, make the necessary adjustments to ensure
the irrigation is efficient and that the sensor system works properly.
5. Installation Instructions
Installing the Bromeliad device is simple. Using the pre-assembled structure, you just need to relocate
the seedlings to the designated space created for them and check the controller. Now, you can enjoy
the plants and their fruits.
