DIY NFT Hydroponics System

Objective

Build a Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) hydroponics system using PVC piping, a water pump, and an ESP32 microcontroller to control the pump, monitor nutrient levels, and manage grow lights.

Overview

This project involves setting up a DIY hydroponics system with a focus on automating key processes such as water circulation, nutrient monitoring, and lighting control using an ESP32 microcontroller. The system will use PVC pipes for the NFT channels, a pump for water circulation, and sensors for monitoring nutrient levels. The ESP32 will be programmed to control these components and ensure optimal growing conditions.

Hardware Requirements

Hydroponics System Components

• PVC pipes (3-inch diameter)
• PVC elbows and connectors
• Net pots
• Growing medium (e.g., rock wool, clay pebbles)
• Reservoir (for nutrient solution)
• Submersible water pump
• Tubing for water circulation

Sensors and Actuators

• pH sensor
• EC (Electrical Conductivity) sensor
• Water level sensor
• Temperature and humidity sensor
• Grow lights (LED)
• Relay modules (for controlling pump and lights)

Microcontroller and Accessories

• ESP32 microcontroller
• Power supply (for ESP32 and other components)
• Jumper wires
• Breadboard
• 5V/12V power adapter (depending on the pump and grow lights)

Software Requirements

Programming Environment

• Arduino IDE
• ESP32 libraries for sensors and actuators

Functional Requirements

• Control water pump to circulate nutrient solution
• Monitor and log pH and EC levels
• Adjust grow lights based on time of day or plant requirements
• Send notifications or alerts for out-of-range sensor readings

Step-by-Step Plan

Design the System Layout

• Plan the layout of the PVC piping for the NFT channels.
• Determine the placement of the net pots and the spacing between them.
• Design the reservoir and tubing setup for nutrient solution circulation.

Assemble the Hydroponics System

• Cut PVC pipes to desired lengths.
• Connect PVC pipes using elbows and connectors to form the NFT channels.
• Drill holes in the PVC pipes to fit the net pots.
• Set up the reservoir and connect it to the pump.
• Install tubing from the pump to the top of the NFT channels and return tubing back to the reservoir.

Set Up Sensors and Actuators

• Install the pH and EC sensors in the nutrient solution reservoir.
• Place the water level sensor in the reservoir.
• Position the temperature and humidity sensor near the plants.
• Mount the grow lights above the plants and connect them to relay modules.

Program the ESP32

• Install Arduino IDE and necessary libraries for the ESP32 and sensors.
• Write code to read sensor data (pH, EC, water level, temperature, and humidity).
• Implement control logic for the pump and grow lights.
• Set up notifications for out-of-range sensor readings.

Integrate and Test

• Connect all sensors and actuators to the ESP32.
• Power on the system and upload the code to the ESP32.
• Test each component individually to ensure proper operation.
• Run the complete system and monitor performance, making adjustments as necessary.

Optimization and Maintenance

• Monitor the system regularly to ensure all components are functioning correctly.
• Adjust the nutrient solution based on pH and EC readings.
• Schedule maintenance for cleaning the system and replacing sensors as needed.

User Requirements

• Ease of Use: The system should be user-friendly with a clear interface for monitoring and controlling components. Notifications should be easy to understand and act upon.
• Reliability: The system should operate consistently with minimal downtime. Sensors and actuators should provide accurate readings and responses.
• Scalability: The design should allow for easy expansion if the user wants to add more NFT channels or sensors. The software should be adaptable to handle additional components.
• Safety: Electrical connections should be secure and waterproof to prevent hazards. The system should have fail-safes to prevent damage to plants in case of sensor or actuator failure.

Timeline

• Week 1-2: Design and Planning - Finalize the system design, source all necessary components
• Week 3-4: Assembly and Initial Setup - Assemble the hydroponics system, set up and test sensors and actuators
• Week 5-6: Programming and Integration - Develop and test ESP32 code, integrate sensors and actuators with the ESP32
• Week 7-8: Testing and Optimization - Conduct system tests, optimize performance and make necessary adjustments
• Ongoing: Maintenance and Monitoring - Regularly monitor and maintain the system, implement upgrades as needed