Abstract
A pulley-based movable LED light apparatus is designed and implemented based on a request from the Biology Department of the Midwestern State University to provide a controllable environment for plant research. The proposed apparatus consists of a large aluminum structure with added pulleys, the movable LED light platform, a DC-motor-driven gearbox, and electronics for sensing and control. The proposed conceptual design has been fabricated, tested, and successfully implemented in the MSU greenhouse. Performance of the initial design is also demonstrated through mechanical efficiency, light intensity profile, and the ultrasonic sensor sensitivity. Finally, some propositions are introduced to improve upon the hardware, sensors, and the control logic, that could allow for a better performance and an increased overall life span of the apparatus.
