Our project explores the fascinating interplay between living organisms, specifically mushrooms, and their environment. Mushrooms, often overlooked, serve as vital components within ecosystems, acting as nature’s recyclers and playing crucial roles in nutrient cycling. We aim to leverage this symbiotic relationship by facilitating the growth of mushrooms and utilizing them as living sensors to provide real-time feedback on environmental conditions and subsequently translate this feedback into tangible outputs such as light or sound using Arduino Uno.
Connected Ecosystem
The underground plant ecosystem is a complex network that connects plants via their roots. This network is made up of fungi, which act like underground Internet fibers, linking the roots of different plants. The purpose of this network is to share nutrients and information among the plants.
With the project, humans can also be avidly part of this connected ecosystem and interact with the environment where the interaction between humans and the ecosystem becomes readily sensible.
Objective
- Utilize mushrooms as living sensors to monitor environmental conditions.
- Interpret electrical signals generated by mushrooms to understand their response to the environment.
- Develop a feedback loop system using Arduino Uno to translate mushroom signals into actionable output (light or sound).
- Investigate the potential applications of this technology in various architectural applications.
Methodology
Mushroom Selection
Identify suitable mushroom species known for their responsiveness to environmental stimuli and ease of cultivation.
Electrical Signal Acquisition
Employ electrodes to measure the electrical signals generated by mushrooms in response to environmental changes.
Data Analysis
Use Arduino Uno to process and interpret the electrical signals, extracting meaningful insights regarding the mushroom’s environment.
Feedback System
Develop a feedback mechanism utilizing Arduino Uno to translate the interpreted data into visual (light) or auditory (sound) output.
Iterative Testing
Conduct iterative testing and refinement of the system to optimize performance and accuracy.
Documentation and Analysis
Document findings, challenges, and solutions throughout the project. Analyze the effectiveness and potential applications of the developed technology.
Mushroom Culture
Design
Iteration 1
Iteration 2
Final Iteration
Our smart mushroom cultivation modules represent a harmonious fusion of functionality and beauty.
By seamlessly integrating with architectural facades and harnessing the power of nature, these modules not only provide an optimal environment for mushroom growth but also contribute to sustainable energy production and community engagement.
Components
- Arduino – Uno compatible w/ USB cable.
- Temperature and humidity sensor.
- 3Soil Moisture Sensor.
- Electrode Leads 3.5mm jack to dual snap, Electrode Pad pair (snap)
- Large Breadboard – 1 nos
- Heating Pad- 5VDC 750MA 5X10CM- 3 nos
- Mist spray nozzles – 3 nos
- Neopixel lights.
- Mushroom Growing Kit.
- Water Sprinklers.
- Pods for Mushrooms.
Technical details
Fabrication process and details
Preparation of modular units
3D Printing
Preparation of Backdrop
Lighting pods
Assembly
Outcome
- Creation of a functioning system capable of monitoring environmental conditions using mushrooms as living sensors.
- Development of a feedback loop mechanism to translate mushroom signals into light or sound output using Arduino Uno.
- Demonstration of the applicability of the technology in providing real-time feedback for environmental management and education.
- Documentation of the project’s process, including methodologies, challenges faced, and potential future developments.
Interaction with mushrooms
Conclusion
Our project aims to bridge the gap between living organisms and technology, utilizing mushrooms as living links in the ecosystem to provide valuable feedback on environmental conditions. Through the integration of Arduino Uno, we transform these signals into tangible outputs, opening up new possibilities for Sustainable Architectural Solutions.
