A Solar-powered Cyber-Physical System for optimization of aquaponics cycles in metropolitan environments

Abstract

Urbanization has intensified food security challenges, especially in densely populated and resource-constrained metropolitan areas where limited space and environmental degradation hinder traditional agriculture. Current urban farming approaches, including community gardens and small-scale farms, face several shortcomings, such as dependence on chemical fertilizers, use of polluted water sources, and high maintenance requirements. Moreover, existing aquaponics systems often lack automation and real-time monitoring capabilities, making them unsuitable for individuals with busy, non-agricultural lifestyles. To address this problem, this research proposes a solar-powered Cyber-Physical System (CPS) that integrates Internet of Things (IoT) technologies to optimize aquaponics cycles for urban food production. The methodology involves deploying a network of sensors to measure critical water quality parameters, including Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), pH, temperature, and water level float sensor. The system utilizes real-time automation to control water pump operations, ensuring optimal growing conditions for both aquatic life and plants. Furthermore, a K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN) algorithm is implemented for predictive analytics to forecast system health and support timely decision-making. Results from experimental testing demonstrate that the system effectively regulates water quality, automates key operations, and sustains power through solar energy, although efficiency may vary under cloudy conditions. The integration of KNN enabled accurate prediction of potential system failures, thereby improving proactive management and operational stability. In conclusion, the proposed CPS enhances the efficiency, sustainability, and reliability of urban aquaponics systems. It reduces reliance on non-renewable energy and harmful agricultural inputs, making it more accessible to urban residents with limited time and space. The implications of this research are significant: it contributes to the advancement of smart agriculture by demonstrating how CPS, powered by renewable energy and driven by intelligent automation, can offer a scalable and sustainable solution for improving food security, particularly in urban and resource-constrained environments. Keywords: Urbanization, food security, aquaponics, cyber-physical system, solar energy, sustainable agriculture, monitoring sensors, automation, ecosystem health and scalable solutions.