Hydroponic Control System

Abstract

The goal of this project is to design and construct a hydroponic control system. The control system will process signals from the required inputs and control output devices based on operational criteria. The control system will display the amounts of water and nutrients that need to be added on a daily basis to maintain a proper growing environment. A daily chemical test is required so these readings can be obtained. The desired nutritional specs are provided by Emerald Harvest Nutrient Series Feeding Chart. The system consist of 3 chemicals, Grow, Bloom, and Micro. The ratios of these 3 chemicals change on a weekly basis during the 16 week grow cycle. The system will continuously monitor the humidity of the grow area and cycle a humidifier to maintain the area within certain specs. Since the system is designed to be indoors, a way to control temperature is not needed. The grow lights are designed to supplement natural light and therefore the system needed to be placed near a south facing window. With minimal user interaction, the system should be able to provide adequate grow environment for up to 5 small herbs over an entire grow cycle. After a grow cycle is complete, the system is ready to start all over again.