FAQs
Why didn’t you test for multiple consecutive days?
1
The JEM project served as a type of advanced proof of concept—while simultaneously completing the task of actually testing the TDS and pH levels of Messerschmidt Pond—to establish a plausible design for an outdoor water quality apparatus. Given how this version of the project successfully measured the water quality of the pond, while also being able to withstand the elements, this version of the JEM project would be the first step towards making design changes that would allow for consecutive testing days to occur.
What changes would need to be made in order to have the apparatus be fully autonomous?
2
To start, a larger battery that is compatible with the given power adapter on the microcontroller would be necessary: the battery used for this version of the project only had a charge capability of about 12 hours.
A two part answer:
The easier way: if one was okay with the apparatus simply logging all of its reading down onto a large SD card (offline), and not having constant updates, then the apparatus would only need a larger battery.
The more complex way: in order to receive constant, up-to-date readings from the sensors, the apparatus would need a Wi-Fi capable microcontroller (not an Arduino R3 Uno) that could, through the cloud, provide real-time readings. However, this option is usually more expensive than the “easier way.”
What did you do with the findings? Who did you share them with?
3
The “water quality” evaluation was shared with a municipal environmental protection group (the Deep River Land Trust). Also, the findings were shared with the CT DEEP water quality division. It was especially important to me that these findings be shared publicly as it has been many years since the last water quality evaluation for Messerschmidt Pond was carried out by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.
How long did it take to create the program, and design the apparatus?
4
The code:
Though it wasn’t done all in one sitting, the program took about 20 hours in total to create; however, the miscellaneous troubleshooting took the longest (probably about 27 hours of troubleshooting time in total).
The design:
This was the quickest part of the project. In total, setting everything up and designing the housing for the apparatus took about 2-3 hours in total.
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