Smart AI-IoT Bio-Fertilizer Dispenser for Coffee Farms

Inspiration

Mountain coffee farmers in regions like Coorg (India) and Brazil face severe challenges: labor shortages, fertilizer misuse, and lack of affordable automation. We were inspired to build a sustainable, intelligent, and affordable solution that empowers these farmers using AI, IoT, and solar energy — combining modern tech with natural farming.

What it does

The Smart AI-IoT Bio-Fertilizer Dispenser is a solar-powered device that:

Collects real-time soil data (moisture, nutrients)
Uses an AI model to calculate optimal fertilizer dosage
Dispenses organic bio-fertilizer automatically via a small pump
Can optionally connect to a dashboard for monitoring

How we built it

We built a functional prototype using:

Arduino Uno
Soil moisture sensor (capacitive type)
Relay module and mini water pump
Simulated AI logic(based on soil condition rules)
Solar panel power input (simulated via USB)
A 2D model mockup for design illustration
Markdown documentation and presentation using [Figma] and AI-generated assets

Challenges we ran into

Limited access to real NPK sensors (very expensive)
Balancing AI features with the cost constraints of small farmers
Creating a realistic design for steep and uneven hill terrain
Simulating fertilizer flow without actual liquid fertilizer during demo

Accomplishments that we're proud of

Designed a solution,not yet implemented in India
Developed a working IoT prototype with AI logic
Created a clean, farmer-friendly concept that's scalable and sustainable
Delivered an idea that merges renewable energy, automation, and traditional agriculture