Software Design for Remote Monitoring and Alerts in Greenhouse Sensor Systems

The objective of this project is to design a software system that enables remote monitoring, alert generation, and automated response for a greenhouse sensor network. Students will focus on developing the software architecture, designing a tiered user experience, and building a visualization and alert system tailored to the needs of both the greenhouse operator and Hedge Structures. The system should include: A grower-facing dashboard that displays environmental metrics such as temperature, humidity, and light levels, along with a simplified system performance gauge (e.g., 0–100% efficiency). A Hedge Structures internal dashboard with access to system-level diagnostics such as pressure trends, energy consumption, and equipment runtime data. The software must include logic to monitor pressure levels and trigger system activation when pressure falls below a specified threshold. Once optimal pressure is restored, the system should shut off automatically. This pressure control must also respect a 1-hour duty cycle to manage energy use and equipment wear. Students will define alert thresholds and logic for both dashboards (e.g., pressure drops, temperature spikes, system overuse), and propose delivery methods such as SMS, email, or desktop notifications. While no physical hardware is involved in this phase, the software must be designed to interface with the output structure of the previously developed sensor network. Priority should be given to usability, scalability, and compatibility with Windows-based environments.

Grant Research for High Energy Efficient Clean-Tech Greenhouse Design

This project supports Hedge Structures in identifying potential funding sources to advance the development of their high energy-efficient, clean-tech greenhouse design, which is currently at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4. Students will conduct focused research on active government and private sector grants in Canada that support clean technology or sustainable agriculture. Optionally, students may include relevant international programs (e.g., from the U.S. or Europe) that could inform future strategic planning. The primary objective is to build a detailed and organized database of funding opportunities, enabling the company to strategically plan future applications. This targeted project allows students to apply business and policy research skills in a real-world sustainability context.

Sensor Network and Data Capture Design for Greenhouse Performance Monitoring

This project focuses on designing a modular, scalable sensor network to monitor key environmental and system performance metrics inside greenhouse facilities ranging from 10,000 to over 2 million square feet. Students will identify appropriate low-power sensors and propose a network layout capable of capturing reliable, real-time data under high-humidity conditions. The system will monitor: Environmental conditions: temperature, humidity, light intensity, and exterior ambient temperature (1–2 sensors per greenhouse side) System performance: pressure levels and energy usage of the technology system, as well as energy consumption of the greenhouse heating system (electric or gas) The selected sensors must integrate into a unified network capable of collecting and transmitting data reliably to a local Windows-based interface or storage system. Particular attention must be given to the challenges posed by high humidity, which may affect the reliability of wireless communication. Students should propose appropriate communication strategies (e.g., wired, RF, or Wi-Fi alternatives) to mitigate interference and ensure stable operation. The design should also allow for future expansion to multi-zone or multi-pump systems in larger greenhouse applications.

Plastic Molding Component Design for High-Energy Saving Greenhouse Window Panels

Hedge Structures Inc. is seeking an innovative design for a precision plastic molding that connects modular greenhouse window panels vertically while supporting high energy efficiency. The primary challenge is to engineer a molding profile that minimizes heat transfer, enables hermetic edge sealing, and ensures a consistent 1 mm spacing between dual window panes. The design must also incorporate a discreet port feature to enable inter-panel connectivity or access for sealing components, while remaining optimized for scalable, cost-effective manufacturing — making this a true design-for-manufacturing challenge. Learners will explore materials, structural forms, and sealing strategies to address these combined thermal, mechanical, and manufacturing requirements. Activities will include: Researching existing framing and sealing methods for insulated glazing systems Evaluating material options for thermal resistance, UV stability, and long-term durability Brainstorming molding shapes that maintain a uniform 1 mm internal gap Designing port features for panel integration or functional access Developing 2D/3D CAD models of the proposed design Justifying design choices with respect to energy performance and manufacturability Deliverables will include a detailed design concept (sketches or CAD), material selection rationale, port design, manufacturing considerations, and a brief report summarizing the design process and potential improvements. This design will directly support Hedge Structures Inc.’s development of next-generation greenhouse systems that address global energy and food security challenges.