Virtual Booth

Abstract

Shoes stored on outdoor racks are exposed to unexpected rainfall, particularly when nobody is available to move them to a sheltered area. Wet shoes can cause discomfort, develop unpleasant odours and require additional drying time. SHORA is a proposed automatic rain-detecting shoe rack designed to reduce this problem through sensor-based protection.

The prototype consists of a two-tier rack, a lightweight transparent protective cover, a rain sensor, an Arduino controller and a servo motor. When water droplets reach the sensor, the Arduino activates the motor to close the cover. A red LED and buzzer indicate rain detection. The cover remains closed until the sensor is dry and the user presses a manual open button, preventing premature reopening during brief pauses in rainfall. The proposed rack accommodates approximately four to six pairs of shoes, with an estimated material cost of RM126–RM236.

Prototype testing will assess rain detection, automatic cover closure, indicator operation and manual reopening using controlled water droplets. SHORA aims to provide affordable shoe protection for homes, classrooms and hostels while demonstrating how sensors, electronics and automation can address an everyday problem.

Keywords: SHORA, rain sensor, Arduino, automatic shoe rack, shoe protection.