Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to the field of environmental monitoring systems, specifically focusing on portable, standalone devices that monitor and display indoor environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity, air quality, and real-time date and time.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
[0003] Environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, and air quality play a significant role in our daily lives, influencing comfort, health, and productivity. Monitoring these conditions has become increasingly important for individuals, businesses, and institutions, especially given the rising concerns about indoor air quality and its effects on well-being. In many settings—such as residential spaces, educational environments, laboratories, and office buildings—accurate and immediate access to environmental data is crucial to maintain safe and comfortable surroundings. However, most environmental monitoring systems available today are either too complex, require external connectivity, or are designed primarily for industrial purposes, limiting their accessibility for personal and small-scale use.
[0004] Existing environmental monitoring solutions generally fall into two categories: complex internet-connected systems that rely on cloud storage and real-time data processing or simpler, handheld devices with limited sensor capabilities and no real-time display. Both categories present challenges. Internet-connected systems are often expensive, require Wi-Fi or cellular connectivity, and are designed to cover large areas, making them impractical for individual users or small indoor spaces. Handheld devices, while portable, often lack comprehensive sensing capabilities and do not provide a user-friendly interface for continuous monitoring. Consequently, there is a gap in the market for a device that offers reliable, standalone environmental monitoring without dependency on external networks or a steep learning curve.
[0005] Another pressing issue is the accessibility of these monitoring devices in settings where resources or technical infrastructure may be limited. For example, in educational institutions, having a user-friendly, self-contained environmental monitoring device can serve dual purposes: it provides immediate feedback on the classroom environment, and it offers a practical, hands-on tool for students to learn about environmental science and sensor technology. The ability to independently monitor parameters such as temperature, humidity, and air quality can be crucial for managing indoor conditions that influence learning, comfort, and health.
[0006] In laboratory environments, precise and continuous monitoring of temperature and humidity is often required to maintain ideal conditions for experiments or storage of sensitive materials. Traditional environmental control systems are typically built into the laboratory infrastructure and are not portable, which limits their flexibility and adaptability. Laboratories often face the challenge of monitoring multiple rooms or sections without investing in costly, permanent monitoring systems. Furthermore, such monitoring systems are often inaccessible to non-specialists and might not support on-the-go usage, leading to a need for a portable, standalone solution.
[0007] The advent of microcontrollers, rechargeable battery technology, and advancements in sensor miniaturization has opened up new possibilities for creating portable, low-cost, standalone devices. Microcontrollers like the Arduino Mega offer the processing capability needed to handle multiple sensors while being relatively power-efficient and compact. Coupled with advancements in display technology, it has become feasible to develop devices that can showcase real-time environmental data in a user-friendly format. The inclusion of a real-time clock (RTC) module further enhances the device’s utility by allowing it to display current date and time, providing a complete snapshot of environmental conditions at any given moment.
[0008] In response to the limitations of existing environmental monitoring devices and the growing need for a portable, all-in-one solution, this invention presents a compact, self-contained environmental monitoring device. Designed with everyday users in mind, the device measures temperature, humidity, and air quality and displays these parameters on an LCD screen, alongside the real-time date and time. It is built around an Arduino Mega microcontroller, allowing it to handle multiple sensors efficiently, and operates on a rechargeable battery, making it fully portable and suitable for use in a variety of settings without the need for an internet connection or external power source. This invention seeks to bridge the gap between complex, connectivity-dependent systems and simple, limited-function devices by offering a user-friendly, robust, and versatile environmental monitor that can be used in homes, offices, classrooms, laboratories, and small businesses.
[0009] All publications herein are incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. Where a definition or use of a term in an incorporated reference is inconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein applies and the definition of that term in the reference does not apply.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0010] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.
[0011] Another object of the present invention is to provide a portable and standalone environmental monitoring device that accurately measures and displays real-time data for temperature, humidity, air quality, and the current date and time without requiring an internet connection or external power source.
[0012] Another object of the present invention aims to create a user-friendly, self-contained solution for monitoring indoor environmental conditions that is accessible to non-technical users, with a clear and intuitive display interface that organizes all measured parameters on a single screen for easy viewing.
[0013] Another object of the present invention is to ensure versatility and applicability across various settings such as homes, classrooms, laboratories, offices, and small businesses by designing a compact and rechargeable device that can function effectively in both stationary and mobile applications.
[0014] Another object of the present invention is to enhance environmental awareness and promote proactive health measures by providing users with immediate access to indoor air quality, temperature, and humidity levels, enabling informed decisions on ventilation, climate control, and air quality management.
[0015] Yet another object of the present invention is to offer an educational tool that combines practical environmental monitoring with sensor technology for use in academic environments, allowing students to explore environmental science concepts and gain hands-on experience with real-time data collection and sensor applications.
SUMMARY
[0016] The present invention is a standalone environmental monitoring device that provides users with real-time data on indoor environmental conditions, specifically temperature, humidity, air quality, and the current date and time. Designed to be portable, simple to operate, and entirely self-contained, the device functions without relying on internet connectivity, cloud storage, or external data processing. This makes it ideal for personal and small-scale use across various environments, such as homes, offices, classrooms, laboratories, and small businesses.
[0017] This device utilizes an array of sensors to capture environmental data accurately and displays the information on a 3.5-inch LCD screen for real-time viewing. A DHT11 sensor is employed for measuring temperature and humidity, an air quality sensor assesses the air quality index (AQI), and a real-time clock (RTC) module provides accurate date and time. These sensors are connected to an Arduino Mega microcontroller, which is programmed using C++ to collect data, process it, and display it on the screen at regular intervals. The device is powered by a rechargeable battery, enhancing its portability and making it ideal for applications where continuous monitoring is required but external power sources are unavailable or impractical.
[0018] The device's casing is designed using TinkerCAD and 3D-printed to provide a compact, lightweight, and durable housing that securely accommodates all components. The enclosure includes strategically placed ventilation openings to ensure optimal airflow for the air quality and temperature sensors, contributing to accurate and reliable measurements. Its portable form factor allows users to place it conveniently in various indoor locations, enabling them to monitor the environment of different rooms or spaces easily.
[0019] One of the primary features of this invention is its independence from internet connectivity. Unlike traditional smart devices, which depend on Wi-Fi or cellular networks to transmit data, this device operates in a completely offline mode, providing users with real-time environmental data without compromising privacy or depending on external infrastructure. This makes it particularly valuable in areas with limited or no internet access, as well as for users who prioritize privacy and data security.
[0020] Another key feature of the device is its rechargeable battery, which allows it to operate autonomously for extended periods. The device includes a charging module to enable easy recharging, ensuring that users can continue to monitor their environment without frequent battery replacements. With a fully charged battery, the device provides several hours of continuous monitoring, making it versatile enough to be used in temporary setups, such as fieldwork or educational demonstrations.
[0021] The display screen is designed to be user-friendly and easy to read, providing a clear and organized view of all measured parameters. The screen updates in real-time, allowing users to access current data on temperature, humidity, air quality, and time at a glance. This interface is intuitive and accessible, making it suitable for users with minimal technical experience, such as students or individuals in non-technical fields.
[0022] The invention offers significant potential in several commercial applications. For example, in smart homes, it provides real-time indoor climate monitoring, enabling users to adjust their HVAC systems based on accurate, current data, thereby promoting health and comfort. In educational settings, the device serves as a practical teaching tool, allowing students to learn about sensor technology and environmental science through hands-on interaction. Laboratories and research facilities can also benefit from this invention, as it allows them to monitor critical environmental parameters without investing in permanent, network-dependent systems. For personal use, this device enables users to monitor their immediate surroundings and make informed decisions about ventilation, humidity control, and general air quality management.
[0023] In summary, this invention delivers an innovative solution for standalone environmental monitoring, offering users a portable, user-friendly, and efficient means to track key indoor parameters without relying on complex infrastructure or internet connectivity. Its robust design, ease of use, and independence make it ideal for personal, educational, and small-scale professional use, bridging the gap between traditional, internet-dependent monitoring systems and limited-function handheld devices.
[0024] These and other features will become apparent from the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments thereof, which is to be read in connection with the accompanying drawings. While the invention has been described and shown with reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0025] So that the manner in which the above-recited features of the present invention can be understood in detail, a more particular description of the invention, briefly summarized above, may have been referred by embodiments, some of which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of this invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, for the invention may admit to other equally effective embodiments.
[0026] These and other features, benefits, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent by reference to the following text figure, with like reference numbers referring to like structures across the views, wherein: Figures attached: N.A.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0027] While the present invention is described herein by way of example using embodiments and illustrative drawings, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention is not limited to the embodiments of drawing or drawings described and are not intended to represent the scale of the various components. Further, some components that may form a part of the invention may not be illustrated in certain figures, for ease of illustration, and such omissions do not limit the embodiments outlined in any way. It should be understood that the drawings and the detailed description thereto are not intended to limit the invention to the particular form disclosed, but on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claim.
[0028] As used throughout this description, the word "may" is used in a permissive sense (i.e. meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense, (i.e. meaning must). Further, the words "a" or "an" mean "at least one” and the word “plurality” means “one or more” unless otherwise mentioned. Furthermore, the terminology and phraseology used herein are solely used for descriptive purposes and should not be construed as limiting in scope. Language such as "including," "comprising," "having," "containing," or "involving," and variations thereof, is intended to be broad and encompass the subject matter listed thereafter, equivalents, and additional subject matter not recited, and is not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers, or steps. Likewise, the term "comprising" is considered synonymous with the terms "including" or "containing" for applicable legal purposes. Any discussion of documents acts, materials, devices, articles, and the like are included in the specification solely for the purpose of providing a context for the present invention. It is not suggested or represented that any or all these matters form part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present invention.
[0029] In this disclosure, whenever a composition or an element or a group of elements is preceded with the transitional phrase “comprising”, it is understood that we also contemplate the same composition, element, or group of elements with transitional phrases “consisting of”, “consisting”, “selected from the group of consisting of, “including”, or “is” preceding the recitation of the composition, element or group of elements and vice versa.
[0030] The present invention is described hereinafter by various embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawing, wherein reference numerals used in the accompanying drawing correspond to the like elements throughout the description. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiment set forth herein. Rather, the embodiment is provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. In the following detailed description, numeric values and ranges are provided for various aspects of the implementations described. These values and ranges are to be treated as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. In addition, several materials are identified as suitable for various facets of the implementations.
[0031] This invention is a compact, portable environmental monitoring device designed to measure and display key indoor environmental parameters in real-time, including temperature, humidity, air quality, and the current date and time. The device is built as a standalone unit, operating independently of internet connectivity, which allows it to function effectively in a variety of environments where access to network resources may be limited or unavailable. Powered by a rechargeable battery and equipped with an intuitive display, this device provides essential environmental data at a glance, making it suitable for personal, educational, and professional use across multiple settings.
[0032] 1. Enclosure Design and Construction
[0033] The housing of the device is designed with a user-centric approach, focusing on compactness, portability, and durability. Created using TinkerCAD software, the enclosure is a 3D-printed, rectangular structure that securely accommodates all internal components, including sensors, microcontroller, display, and battery module. The body of the enclosure is designed to be lightweight and ergonomic, allowing users to easily transport and position it on various surfaces without any stability issues.
[0034] The enclosure also features strategically placed ventilation slots and openings, specifically around the air quality sensor and DHT11 temperature/humidity sensor, ensuring proper airflow. These design features are crucial for accurate environmental monitoring, as proper ventilation allows the sensors to capture true ambient conditions without interference from trapped heat or stagnant air within the enclosure. Additionally, the 3D-printed structure is built with reinforced corners and edges to provide impact resistance, enhancing durability and making the device suitable for various indoor environments, including educational settings, offices, and laboratories.
[0035] 2. Sensors and Data Collection
[0036] The environmental monitoring capabilities of the device are driven by a suite of sensors selected for their accuracy, efficiency, and compatibility with the Arduino Mega microcontroller.
[0037] DHT11 Sensor for Temperature and Humidity: The DHT11 sensor is chosen for its reliable performance and ease of integration with microcontroller-based systems. It provides precise readings of temperature and humidity levels in real-time, delivering data that the Arduino Mega processes and displays on the device’s screen. Positioned within the enclosure, the DHT11 sensor’s readings are optimized through proper ventilation to avoid heat buildup from other components, allowing for accurate ambient temperature and humidity measurements.
[0038] Air Quality Sensor: The device uses an air quality sensor to monitor the Air Quality Index (AQI), providing data on indoor air conditions that can have significant implications for health and comfort. The AQI sensor detects levels of airborne pollutants, including particulate matter (PM) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are common contributors to indoor pollution. This sensor allows users to monitor changes in air quality and take actions such as improving ventilation or using air purifiers to enhance indoor air health.
[0039] Real-Time Clock (RTC) Module: An RTC module is included to provide a continuous display of the current date and time, which is essential for time-stamping environmental data. The RTC module operates independently of the main power source, maintaining accuracy and functionality even when the device is powered down or recharged. This time-keeping functionality is particularly valuable for applications that require timestamped data, such as laboratory environments, where conditions may be logged periodically for consistency.
[0040] 3. Data Processing and Microcontroller
[0041] At the core of the device is an Arduino Mega microcontroller, selected for its high processing capability and ample I/O pin availability, which is essential to manage multiple sensors and the display module simultaneously. The Arduino Mega reads and processes data from each sensor, using custom C++ code to retrieve, interpret, and update the data displayed on the screen. The code is optimized for efficiency to ensure that the device can operate with minimal power consumption while updating readings in real-time.
[0042] The microcontroller handles multiple tasks, including reading sensor outputs, formatting the data for display, managing the RTC module, and controlling the screen to refresh data regularly. To optimize the device’s performance, the C++ program is designed to handle data updates at intervals suitable for each parameter. For example, temperature and humidity may be refreshed every few seconds, while air quality may be updated at longer intervals, as it generally fluctuates more slowly in controlled environments.
[0043] 4. Display Module
[0044] The device features a 3.5-inch LCD display that provides a clear, organized view of all measured environmental parameters. The display is divided into sections, each dedicated to a specific parameter (temperature, humidity, air quality, and date/time), allowing users to access all relevant information at a glance. The layout is designed to be simple and readable, with intuitive icons and text labels for each parameter. For example, the temperature is displayed with a thermometer icon and humidity with a droplet icon, while the AQI section may use color-coded indicators to represent different air quality levels (e.g., green for good, yellow for moderate, red for poor).
[0045] The LCD display is backlit, enabling visibility in low-light environments, which enhances its usability in various settings, including classrooms, home offices, and laboratories. Additionally, the screen refresh rate is carefully controlled by the microcontroller, ensuring that data updates smoothly without screen flicker or delays, providing a seamless user experience.
[0046] 5. Power Supply and Battery Module
[0047] A rechargeable battery module powers the entire device, making it fully portable and independent of external power sources. The device includes a charging module that allows users to recharge the battery using a standard USB connection, ensuring that the device can be conveniently powered up when needed. Once fully charged, the device operates for several hours, depending on the frequency of sensor readings and display updates, which makes it ideal for applications where continuous monitoring is needed, such as in classrooms or laboratories.
[0048] The battery module includes safety features such as overcharge protection, preventing potential damage to the battery during recharging. Additionally, the device includes a battery status indicator on the display, alerting users when the battery needs recharging. This feature ensures that users can proactively manage the power levels of the device, minimizing disruptions to its operation.
[0049] 6. Assembly and Wiring
[0050] The assembly process for the device is designed to be straightforward, with each component connected via standard wiring techniques compatible with Arduino systems. The DHT11 sensor, AQI sensor, RTC module, and LCD screen are connected to specific I/O pins on the Arduino Mega, with each sensor module powered through the Arduino's onboard power supply. The rechargeable battery and charging module are integrated into the enclosure, and all wiring is neatly arranged to ensure a compact and secure fit within the 3D-printed body.
[0051] The device’s wiring and component layout have been optimized to minimize interference between the sensors and the microcontroller, ensuring reliable operation and accuracy. Additionally, the device’s modular design allows for easy component replacement or upgrades if needed, enhancing its longevity and adaptability for future use.
[0052] 7. Programming and Functionality
[0053] The device’s functionality is governed by a custom-written C++ program, uploaded to the Arduino Mega microcontroller. This program manages data collection, processing, and display, using libraries specific to each sensor and the display module. The code is structured to ensure efficient operation, with separate functions dedicated to reading temperature, humidity, air quality, and RTC data. Each function is called in a loop that allows the display to update periodically, maintaining real-time data output for the user.
[0054] To improve user experience, the program incorporates error-handling mechanisms that display alert messages if a sensor is malfunctioning or not providing valid data. This feature is particularly valuable for ensuring reliability in professional applications, where accuracy is essential.
[0055] 8. Applications and Use Cases
[0056] This standalone environmental monitoring device has diverse applications:
[0057] Home and Office Use: Ideal for individuals interested in tracking indoor climate and air quality to enhance comfort and health.
[0058] Educational Settings: Serves as a teaching tool, enabling students to learn about environmental science, sensor technology, and data processing through a hands-on approach.
[0059] Laboratories: Provides a portable and easy-to-use solution for monitoring conditions in labs, supporting safe and optimal working environments.
[0060] Small Businesses: Useful for ensuring healthy working conditions in small office spaces, allowing business owners to monitor and adjust indoor climate as necessary.
[0061] In conclusion, this invention provides a robust, user-friendly solution for standalone environmental monitoring, offering reliable performance across a range of indoor environments and applications. The device’s compact design, easy-to-read display, and rechargeable power source make it an accessible, versatile tool for monitoring temperature, humidity, air quality, and time.
[0062] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope of the invention is determined by the claims that follow. The invention is not limited to the described embodiments, versions or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.
[0063] Thus, the scope of the present disclosure is defined by the appended claims and includes both combinations and sub-combinations of the various features described hereinabove as well as variations and modifications thereof, which would occur to persons skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing description.
, Claims:I/We Claim:
1. A standalone environmental monitoring device, comprising:
a temperature and humidity sensor configured to measure ambient temperature and humidity;
an air quality sensor configured to measure air quality index (AQI);
a real-time clock (RTC) module configured to track and display date and time;
a display screen configured to show real-time data including temperature, humidity, air quality index, date, and time;
a microcontroller configured to control the operation of the sensors, process sensor data, and update the display;
a rechargeable battery configured to provide power to the device; and
an enclosure that houses the components, wherein the enclosure is designed to allow air circulation to enable accurate environmental readings.
2. The device of claim 1, wherein the temperature and humidity sensor is a DHT11 sensor configured to measure and transmit temperature and humidity data to the microcontroller.
3. The device of claim 1, wherein the air quality sensor is configured to measure pollutants and particulate matter to determine an air quality index (AQI) level and transmit the AQI data to the microcontroller.
4. The device of claim 1, wherein the RTC module is configured to provide accurate real-time tracking of date and time, independent of internet connectivity, and transmit date and time data to the microcontroller.
5. The device of claim 1, wherein the display screen is a 3.5-inch LCD screen configured to display real-time environmental data in a user-readable format.
6. The device of claim 1, wherein the microcontroller is an Arduino Mega programmed in C++ to manage data collection, data processing, and display updates for temperature, humidity, air quality index, and real-time date and time.
7. The device of claim 1, further comprising a charging module configured to recharge the rechargeable battery, enabling continuous operation without external power supply dependency.
8. The device of claim 1, wherein the device is configured to operate without requiring an internet connection, allowing the user to obtain real-time environmental data independently.
9. The device of claim 1, wherein the enclosure is a custom 3D-printed housing, designed to accommodate all internal components and enhance portability while allowing sufficient air circulation for accurate environmental monitoring.
10. The device of claim 1, wherein the device is configured to display real-time updates of environmental data at periodic intervals to provide users with continuous monitoring.