Solar-powered tourist information and navigation kiosk with phone charging station

Abstract

The self-service tourist guide system integrates a digital information kiosk with a phone charging station, utilizing solar power for sustainability. The kiosk includes a solar panel and battery managed by a solar charge controller, powering a DC-DC buck converter and Raspberry Pi 4B microprocessor. A 21.5-inch LED touchscreen offers interactive navigation and itinerary planning based on user preferences, facilitated by an Arduino Nano microcontroller in the phone charging station. Users initiate a personalized itinerary by completing a brief survey, with the system computing and displaying routes, then transferring screenshots to their devices. As a navigation guide, users select destinations, verify routes, and receive optimal paths, enhancing their travel experience. The phone charging station operates on coin-based activation, with a coin sensor regulating charging durations based on deposited coins. This innovative system not only supports eco-friendly practices through solar energy but also empowers tourists with customized travel plans and essential device charging capabilities.