Leafy-Link: An Automated Hydroponic Growth System; The Role of the CHIPS and Science Act on US Semiconductor Manufacturing and Supply Chain Security

Leafy-Link is an automated hydroponic growth system designed for small-scale microgreen cultivation, consisting of a growth chamber, plant tray, watering system, and electrical components including a power supply, PCB, microcontroller, and touchscreen interface.
As semiconductor devices continue to revolutionize industries such as healthcare, national defense, and consumer products, the negative social consequences of shortages grow more severe. This paper analyzes the US semiconductor supply chain to determine the "weak links" that must be strengthened to reduce the risk of supply shortages and how these key vulnerabilities are being addressed by the US CHIPS Act. The paper also explores how social forces shape technological development in the industry and how semiconductor technology and product shortages affect society.