Project Logs

Collapse

• Preliminary Prototype/Local Testbed

  mrobinson801 • 08/21/2014 at 05:22 • 0 comments

  The first physical implementation is to be based around my own apartment grow as a testbed and learning platform.  Controlled with a Wifi connected RaspberryPi acting as the central control node (and temporary server) all initial tasks will be focused on interfacing with, and obtaining reliable sensor readings to explore environmental fluctuations.  The RasPi communicates with an Atmega8 AVR to gather and log data from sensors monitoring soil moisture levels, atmospheric humidity, soil pH and salinity, and light status.  If any of these parameters are found to be outside of acceptable ranges, an email alert will be issued detailing the problem and suggested actions.  A webcam taking periodic photos will also be interfaced to the RaspPi for physical inspection of growth habit, possible pest infestations, and a record of daily growth. 

• Preliminary Design Diagram

  mrobinson801 • 08/19/2014 at 20:37 • 0 comments

  Each remote station/garden will incorporate sensors suited for it's specific needs that communicates with a central server, from which instructions can be passed back to correct any environmental deficits, or other care reccomendations

• Concept Development

  mrobinson801 • 08/19/2014 at 18:18 • 0 comments

  As my garden's size quickly surpassed my apartment's ability to accommodate, I realized that I would need to find a surrogate gaden space. Not being able to travel to this remote location frequently enough means that many fuctions would need to be automated, or done by a third party (while minimizing the chance for human error--and responsibility). This system will allow myltiple gardens to be remotely monitored, and allow customized instruction to the novice gardener wishing to grow food (or other plants) with the security of knowing that there is always an informed central command to help them through theprocess.

View all 3 project logs