Timeline
Aquaponics System
Mitchell was building an aquaponics system for a school project and wanted a way to remotely control and monitor the system, as well as automate it.
It's rough, we know.
System without aggregate or plants; not running
System with aggregate and plants; running
Idea Born
The idea for SmartPonics was born when Mitchell found out that other people wanted a way to monitor, control, and automate their hydroponics and aquaponics systems as well.
First Working Version
Mitchell created a device that could control the devices that were used with his aquaponics system as well as use the sensors to control and automate the system.
Sadly, we don't have a video to show for it. But here's part of the original parts list:
- Arduino Mega
- Arduino Breakout Board
- Water Level Sensor
- Light Sensor
- Water Temperature Sensor
- 4 Relays
And here's what the original control interface looked like:
SmartPonics Prototype Started
The prototype for SmartPonics was started after the first working version showed that the idea was viable and there was a need.
Here's the video:
Note that we used LEDs instead of relays and 120 volts to demonstrate the system's capabilities, as this made everything easier to demonstrate in a short video.
Below are the main controller (left) and power controller (right) prototypes from the first SmartPonics prototype.
Project Paused
SmartPonics was paused to wait until Mitchell had more time to pursue the idea.
Project Resumed
SmartPonics was resumed, and as of August 1 the Kickstarter is active here.