FINAL PROJECT¶
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT: SMART SINK WITH AUTOMATIC PLANT WATERING AND WEATHER MONITORING SYSTEM (AGROLINK)¶
1. RESEARCH AND IDEA DEVELOPMENT¶
Our project started with learning about microcontrollers and IoT (Internet of Things) devices. This research helped us understand how we could create a sustainable home solution. After gathering information, I organized it into a shared document that everyone could access for more details.
Personal Inspiration¶
My inspiration came from my pet lovebird, who enjoys taking baths. Watching my bird bathe got me thinking about how we could make life easier for pet owners and their pets. I thought of creating a smart sink that uses leftover water to water a plant nearby. To make this idea even better, I decided the plant could be something useful, like a herb, so that pet owners could grow their own fresh ingredients.
Team Brainstorming¶
In our group, we had several brainstorming sessions. Kawther suggested a smart sprinkler system that could be controlled by a phone to automatically water plants when they needed it. Ahmed proposed a weather monitoring system that could work inside and outside the house, providing information about temperature, humidity, and air quality to help people save energy.
We decided to combine all these ideas into one project: a smart sink that waters a plant automatically and includes a weather monitoring system. I focused on designing the sink, Kawther worked on waterproofing and finding the right pot for the plant, and Ahmed took charge of the electronics and system setup.
2. SKETCHING AND INITIAL DESIGN¶
Once we had our ideas set, it was time to turn them into designs. Ahmed used SolidWorks, a 3D design software, to create sketches of our project. His experience with the software helped us visualize how the sink and its parts would look.
We considered the size and weight of the sink, making sure it would be portable enough to fit in most homes without taking up too much space.
3. 3D MODELING AND DESIGN REFINEMENT¶
First Version and Improvements¶
After sketching, we moved to 3D modeling and decided to print the sink using a 3D printer. Our first version was made from pink PLA plastic, but we ran into some problems. The water level sensor didn’t fit well, and the design of the faucet caused water to splash everywhere. We also noticed that the faucet support was damaging the inside of the sink.
To fix these issues, we printed a new version using green PLA plastic. This time, the sink was made taller and wider to fit the sensor better, and the faucet was redesigned with holes to improve water flow and reduce splashing.
We also reprinted the feeder to make it more stable and match the new sink color. Additionally, we created a white cone-shaped piece to make refilling the water tank easier. Since PLA isn’t fully waterproof, we planned to coat the printed parts with transparent nail polish for extra protection against water.
We printed a small servo-operated valve that opens and closes the water tube to water the plant only when the soil is dry.
4. PROTOTYPING AND TESTING¶
Cardboard Model¶
Before building the final version, we created a small-scale model using cardboard. We used a laser cutter to make precise cuts, helping us understand the size and layout of the project. This prototype was important for figuring out where to place components like sensors and electronics.
We also integrated the electronics into the cardboard model to test how they fit and worked. This early testing gave us useful feedback and helped us improve the final design.
5. SENSOR INTEGRATION AND ELECTRONICS SETUP¶
During the programming phase, we focused on integrating six important sensors into our project:
- Humidity and Temperature Sensor: Checks the air conditions around the sink.
- Light Intensity Sensor: Measures how much light is available for the plants.
- Air Quality Sensor: Monitors the air for pollutants and ensures a healthy environment.
- Proximity Sensor: Detects when something is near the sink, like a hand.
- Water Level Sensor: Measures the water level in the sink to prevent overflow.
- Soil Moisture Sensor: Checks if the plant’s soil is too dry.
These sensors help gather important information for both the sink and the weather monitoring system. We also added a water pump, relay, and servo motor to control the water flow and operate the faucet.
6. FABRICATION AND ASSEMBLY¶
For building the main body of our project, we chose MDF wood because it is sturdy and easy to work with. We cut the pieces using a CNC machine, which ensured they fit together well without needing extra fasteners. However, we did have to drill some smaller holes manually for the electronics.
Final Assembly¶
After assembling the body, we attached all the 3D-printed parts. The final assembly looked polished and visually appealing. We also used acrylic sheets for the upper cover of the sink and designed a drain cover with holes for a stylish look. Most edges were glued for stability, while the electronics cover was designed to be removable for easy access.
7. MICROCONTROLLER PROGRAMMING AND SYSTEM SETUP¶
We split the electronics into two main systems to make everything easier to manage:
Weather Monitoring System¶
This system included: - Humidity and Temperature Sensor - Air Quality Sensor - Light Intensity Sensor
We used an MKR1010 microcontroller with WiFi capability to collect data from these sensors. This data was displayed on the Blynk platform, allowing users to monitor the environment in real time.
Sink Operational System¶
Managed by an Arduino microcontroller, this system controlled the sink’s operations based on the sensors’ inputs: - The proximity sensor triggered the water pump when it detected someone nearby. - The water level sensor kept track of the water in the sink, and if the soil moisture sensor showed the plant needed water, the valve opened to let water flow.
By separating these systems, we made it easier to troubleshoot and program.
8. FINAL ASSEMBLY AND TESTING¶
After putting everything together and connecting the electronics, we performed multiple tests, especially focusing on how the proximity sensor worked. We adjusted the code and made several fixes until everything operated smoothly.
The result was a smart sink that automatically waters the plant and provides useful weather information. Here is a picture of our final project, showing how all our hard work came together!