Features and Requirements

Functional Requirements

• System must be able to track a plant’s sunlight exposure, temperature, and soil moisture

  • Users must be able to track sunlight so that they can properly ensure the plant's UV intake.
  • Users must be able to track temperature so that they can properly ensure the plant's ambient temperature is survivable.
  • Users must be able to track soil moisture so that they can properly ensure the plant's water intake is sustainable.

• System must be able to show info to user while user is far away from the plants

  • Users must be able to provide login credentials to the system to connect it to the internet
  • Users must be able to view all relevant data (sun, moisture, temperature) from the sensors remotely

• System components must be able to withstand harsh outdoor conditions

  • System must be waterproof, as well as be able to operate under a wide range of temperatures
  • The system must also be secured in some way to prevent various critters from displacing it

Non-functional Requirements

• Availability:

  • High Uptime: The sensors that are connected should be available for use at nearly any time of the day.
  • Weather Resistant: The sensors will be protected by cases, that will allow them to still read the plant’s vitals properly, but without getting damaged from inclement weather.
  • Website Availability: The website is also available 24/7 for users to login into and use under any circumstance.

• Performance:

  • Real-time Response: Sensor immediately transfers requested data to database –which is then reported directly to user on website.

• Accessibility:

  • Setup is Simple: The Garden Sensors should be easy to connect to the hub when setting up the device.
  • LED Visual Aid: LED light attachments on sensors to visibly show hydration and sunlight levels.

• Usability:

  • Instructions Given: Understandable descriptions and explanations must be supplied to help ensure the sensors and the website are straightforward.
  • Clear Interface: The Garden Sensor Website will have a very clear and easy to use interface. With useful elements like preference options and clearly defined data which makes the website easier to operate.

• Accuracy:

  • Low Percentage Error: The Garden Sensors must achieve 5% or less in percentage error.
  • Only Keeps Necessary Info: The sensors should only send the database data when prompted to/activated by the user. Only important data is recorded, freeing up its capacity from irrelevant data and maintaining high accuracy and response time.

• Scalability:

  • Easy Linking on Website: The website makes it easy for the user to connect additional monitored garden bed. The site is carefully organized to minimize confusion on which plant bed is which.

• Security:

  • Mandatory Login: To access plant data from personal sensors on the website, the system must require successful user login.
  • User Authentication: System prompts user to answer security questions and recreate login credentials if forgotten.
  • Wi-Fi Authentication: Required to authenticate network connection to ensure user safety.