HC-2 | Devpost

Our new modified sub roots
CAD top view SUB ROOTS collapsed
Sub roots exploded

Inspiration

Landslides cause massive loss of human lives and resources. They are natural occurrences that cannot be stopped completely; we can only prevent them and reduce the damages caused by the same. As technology and development across the globe bloom the frequency of such natural occurrences will tend to increase and thus finding an effective solution to the problem is of utmost necessity. It is a problem that is common in India, but we don’t have adequate modern solutions

What it does

The main aspect of our proposed solution involves developing a dynamic artificial root system to hold the soil. The length of these mechanical roots can be modified as per the soil requirements after they are inserted into the soil. The root would have multiple cilia-like structures to help hold the soil and connect loose soil to the more stable variant. We would also use a moisture detecting system (a moisture detector + a microcontroller) that will detect changes in moisture levels of the soil and send an alert when the moisture level crosses a pre-set upper value. Multiple mechanical roots in bulk along with more conventional methods like ropes to minimize damage can be used.

How we built it

We ran multiple simulations of the product in SOLIDWORKS until we got the desired results.

Challenges we ran into

We faced multiple challenges during the brainstorming process for the solution. The actual physical implementation of ideas was troublesome. The team needed to figure out ways to make the root system as thin as possible to make the installation problem easier, minimize production costs, and maximize efficiency. We had to come up with a suitable ejection mechanism that would work without drastically increasing the thickness of the root.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

We take pride in having come up with an efficient engineering solution to the problem which hasn’t been thought of or implemented yet. The solution is a technological imitation of actual plant roots which hold the soil and help prevent landslides.

What we learned

We learned that landslides are a much more frequent occurrence both in India and globally than we’d originally imagined. During our research process, we found horrifying statistics about the damages that landslides cause. We learned about the various solutions that are already present (retaining walls, nets, chain-link cages, and Hesco bastion bags) and used them as references for our actual product. An engineering solution for the problem can save lives and resources, reduce the use of manpower and help reverse the negative effects of modernization on the environment. It could reduce risk in some jobs, avoid accidents and protect people in surrounding areas from the dust and sound landslides cause.

What's next for landslide arrester

Our team aims to further simplify the product by making it more efficient, cost-effective, and most importantly sustainable. Technological developments should not be at the expense of natural resources. Hence we plan on constructing the root body using a sustainable material thereby considerably reducing metal usage.