It should be noted that this roadmap only outlines what needs to be done for a basic implementation of an automated hydrogarden. By basic implementation, I mean that the system should be able to grow plants and have some basic automation components. More-complex components will need to be added at a later time.
DotSlashGarden Roadmap
GardenReservoirPaint (to increase diffusion and discourage algae)Access points (i.e. holes)Attachments (e.g. lights)Hoagland Solution (liquid nutrient solution)- Software
- "Serverized" Raspberry Pi
- Wireless Networking
Automatic connection- Fault resolution
- SSH server with RSA keys
- RSS feed
- Redesigned control program
Additional Components
- Integrated pH meter
- Integrated CF (Conductivity Factor) meter
- Water level meter
- Mariotte's bottle
A slight change in the reservoir should be noted. The original reservoir has a capacity of 14.2 L and allows for 6 plants to be grown. However, this design is not ideal as too many factors exist that have not been tested. For example, the Hoagland Solution is currently untested and has the possibility of failure. If something goes wrong, the effect may be multiplied by the 6 plants, making the cause less likely to be found. Therefore, a reservoir with a capacity of 473 mL and 1 plant will be used for testing.
Because the project is split into two sections (planting and programming), these areas can be developed asynchronously, meaning that plants can be grown before the program is fully cooked. That being said, I plan to begin planting as soon as possible and add the automation when it is ready. This will ensure that the implementation moves smoothly.
You may note that this roadmap does not mention anything about timelines or scheduling. This is because this type of thing has not worked very well in the past. It will simply get done when it gets done.
