Ying Xu
Cai Yutong
Grace Kong
Belinda Seet
This heavy dependence exposes the nation to risks from global supply chain disruptions, economic fluctuations, and food security concerns. The environmental impact of transporting food also raises sustainability issues, contributing to a large carbon footprint. While reducing its food import dependency is a complex challenge, Singapore is positioning itself as a leader in food security and sustainable food production through technology, local sourcing, and diversification efforts.
The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) aims to increase local food production to 30% by 2030, investing over $100 million in sustainability R&D since 2019.
However, vegetable production remains under 5% of total consumption. A survey shows Singaporeans prioritize low prices, high quality, and convenience but are also selective about freshness and wary of new food technologies, highlighting the need for innovation paired with reassurances on food safety.
How might we improve the adoption of local vegetable produce for Singapore residents?
From research, Singaporeans have 4 key needs:
Pricing, Quality, Convenience and Trust
To address these issues, we came up with DeFarm which is a smart hydroponics system that is Decentralized, Automated and Harvested at point of sale. The systems results in savings in Manpower, logistics and rental costs, allowing cost savings to be passed on to consumers. It is conveniently located and is as fresh as vegetables can get.
Aimed to be placed conveniently in common spaces, DeFarm hopes to allow all Singaporeans to have access to Fresh and Affordable locally grown vegetables.
With DeFarm, You don’t have to worry about whether your vegetables are pesticide free or not. With the machine placed conveniently for everyone to see, you can have an ease of mind when you are purchasing your vegetables. Your vegetables start in a pod, and are harvested in the very same pod.
Our smart plant growth through the use of sensors and motors, monitor and helps the machine maintain an optimal self sustaining environment for the plants to grow.
Our pods are rotated within the layers to allow users to have the FREEDOM to choose which vegetables they desire.
The space of the machine within the layer is also maximised to allow more plants to grow; growing up to 86 pods per layer.
The Harvest arm securely grips the pods during harvesting to prevent damage.
Link bars provide vertical motion, allowing the arm to move up and down to reach pods at different heights.
A circular base with bearings smooths rotational movement, ensuring stable and precise positioning.
The servo motor controls the entire system’s movement, adjusting speed and position for accurate and efficient harvesting.
The TDS sensor, Temperature & Humidity sensor, Water level sensor all work together to monitor the environment in the system.
The Mixing Pump is activated to mix the two fertilizer solutions (A&B)Â when the water level values falls below desired in the water tank.
The Submersible main pump circulates the nutrient-rich water from the reservoir to the plant roots, enabling automated and efficient plant growth.
The Drain pump drains the water from the rail system, to ensure that maintenance checks can be done.
The Programable LED Grow Lights turn on when light sensors detect that there is insufficient sunlight.
1. Choose your selection of vegetables
2. Make Payment via Paynow/AliPay : it’s that easy!
DeFarm would like to express its heartfelt gratitude to several individuals who have provided invaluable support and guidance throughout this project.Â
Firstly, DeFarm is grateful to Prof. Cai Yu Tong for his consistent guidance, weekly feedback, and unwavering support, which have been instrumental in shaping the direction and progress of this project. Additionally, Prof. Maria, who offered helpful tips on improving the report and reminded us of deliverables.
DeFarm also would like to thank Jason for his invaluable advice and insights on Grassroots procedures and the legalities of the business, which have greatly enhanced our approach.
DeFarm is also grateful to CWR Mentor, Grace, for advice in refining the format of the written work and helping to ensure clarity and professionalism.Â
Vote for our project at the exhibition! Your support is vital in recognizing our creativity. Join us in celebrating innovation and contributing to our success. Thank you for being part of our journey!
At Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), we believe that the power of design roots from the understanding of human experiences and needs, to create for innovation that enhances and transforms the way we live. This is why we develop a multi-disciplinary curriculum delivered v ia a hands-on, collaborative learning pedagogy and environment that concludes in a Capstone project.
The Capstone project is a collaboration between companies and senior-year students. Students of different majors come together to work in teams and contribute their technology and design expertise to solve real-world challenges faced by companies. The Capstone project will culminate with a design showcase, unveiling the innovative solutions from the graduating cohort.
The Capstone Design Showcase is held annually to celebrate the success of our graduating students and their enthralling multi-disciplinary projects they have developed.
