Green-RAILS: Greenhouse Rail-based Automated Inspection and Localization System

Design and construct a modular overhead gantry platform capable of traversing the length and width of a greenhouse growing area with repeatable, encoder-based positioning. The platform will provide a stable, automated mounting system for photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) sensors and other environmental monitoring equipment, enabling spatially referenced data collection across the plant canopy. The system should support autonomous or manual operation, provide accurate positional feedback, and include a modular payload interface to accommodate future sensors and research tools.

Preliminary Requirements:
- The system shall provide an overhead gantry platform capable of traversing a representative greenhouse growing area in the X and Y axes.
- The system shall provide encoder-based position feedback to enable repeatable sensor positioning.
- The system shall support a modular payload interface capable of accommodating a PAR sensor and future environmental sensing devices.
- The system shall provide autonomous and manual positioning capabilities.
- The system shall collect and log sensor data referenced to the gantry position.
- The system shall operate safely within a greenhouse environment without interfering with normal greenhouse operations.
- The system shall be designed to facilitate future expansion through modular hardware and software architecture.
- The project shall include complete mechanical, electrical, software, and user documentation.