Smart Planter

Parts

I for one welcome our new robotic, plant-hybrid overlords. That being said, here is a list of all the parts you will need to bring your IoT Smart Planter to life!

• Planter of your choice
• Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+
• 2-Channel 5V Relay Module
• DC-DC Adjustable Step-Up Boost Converter Module
• 15W Plant Grow LED (x2)
• Illuminated Pushbutton (x2)
• DC 3.5-12V Submersible Water Pump
• 22 Gauge Solid Hook-Up Wire
• 1/4 Inch Polyethylene Tubing
• Breadboard
• 5V Power Supply 10A 50W

View part and serial numbers here.

Code

Do not fear, the code is here! I understand just how daunting code can be. So, I simplified the entire process into three easy steps! Let's get started!

1. Download the files
2. Install the prerequisites
3. Launch the application

Schematic

View the IoT Smart Planter wiring diagram here.

Remarks

Overall, the project went rather smoothly! However, if I were to start over there are a few improvements I would make.

"given enough eyeballs, all bugs are shallow"

First, I would upgrade the 2-Channel Relay Module to a 3-Channel Relay Module. The first channel would be used to control the submersible water pump while the remaining two channels would be used to control the grow lights. This change would allow me to control both grow lights individually.

Then, I would move the DC-DC Adjustable Step-Up Boost Converter Module so that its output voltage is powering the 3-Channel Relay Module. Increasing the power supplied to the water pump would provide greater lift and further reduce watering times.

View the most up-to-date schematic.