The water sensor project

1. Human-Centered Design - focus on the end-user experience by prioritizing simplicity, intuitive interfaces, and actionable insights from collected data.

2. Resilience and Redundancy - build fail-safe mechanisms (e.g., backup power, error detection) to maintain operation during adverse conditions.

3. Modularity - use a modular architecture to support future upgrades and compatibility with new sensors or technologies.

4. Minimalism - avoid unnecessary complexity, keeping the hardware and software lightweight and efficient.

5. Interoperability -design the system to integrate seamlessly with existing platforms (e.g., IoT networks, cloud services like AWS or Azure) and third-party applications.

6. Energy Efficiency - leverage low-power microcontrollers and energy-harvesting technologies like solar panels to extend operational life and reduce maintenance.

7. Data Integrity and Reliability - implement robust error-checking and calibration mechanisms to ensure accurate data collection and transmission.

8. Agile Development - use an iterative approach to incorporate user feedback and technological advancements into successive versions of the product.

9. Open Standards - use open-source hardware and software to foster innovation and collaboration within the environmental monitoring community as far as possible.

10. Sustainability by Design ensure all aspects of the project, from material sourcing to lifecycle management, contribute to environmental sustainability.

Accuracy and Reliability -provide precise water quality measurements (e.g., turbidity, pH, temperature) that stakeholders can trust, ensuring the system operates reliably under diverse environmental conditions.

Affordability - minimize production and operational costs to make the sensor accessible to a broad audience, including landowners, conservation groups, and local authorities.

Ease of Use - design the system to be simple for non-technical users to install, operate, and maintain. Include features like plug-and-play calibration and user-friendly interfaces.

Scalability - Ensure the system can scale from single-unit installations to large networks of sensors across multiple monitoring sites.

Real-time Data Monitoring - deliver near-instantaneous updates on water quality changes via cloud integration, providing stakeholders with actionable insights.

Durability in Harsh Conditions - use materials and components that withstand prolonged exposure to water, varying temperatures, and contaminants.

Environmental Sustainability - incorporate low-power components, solar charging options, and environmentally friendly materials to minimize the sensor’s ecological footprint.

Modularity and Expandability - allow users to add or swap sensor modules for additional metrics like dissolved oxygen, nitrate levels, or flow rate as needed.

Sensitive electronics are not exposed to water or moisture, the sensors

Sensor are maintained at a constant orientation and depth

Stray light does not interfere with the turbidity sensors

Net filters can be placed to prevent large objects entering sensor area

What is the water quality sensor? The hardware comprises two commodity turbidity sensors, a temperature sensor and a conduct designed to monitor and measure specific parameters in water, such as turbidity and temperature conductivity (i.e. dissolved ions). pH levels, and dissolved oxygen will be offered n future iterations. These readings help assess the health of water in rivers, streams, and other bodies of water.

Who can benefit from your sensors? The sensors are ideal for landowners, farmers, researchers, environmental agencies, and anyone interested in tracking water quality to identify potential pollution or ensure ecosystem health.

How does the sensor work? The system uses advanced yet affordable sensors to measure water quality parameters. These are combined with our proprietary calibration and cloud-based software to ensure reliable data collection and analysis.

Are you replicating similar initiatives? Yes, there exist similar projects around the world, we are not in competition with any of them. Far from it! We want them all to succeed. The poor state of the rivers is not unique to the UK. As the saying goes, we stand on the shoulders of giants. We want to learn from the best examples. Are designs and requirements meet specifically the UK context

What metrics do your sensors measure? Currently, the sensors monitor water turbidity, temperature, and conductivity. Additional parameters like pH or conductivity could be added as the project develops.

Are the sensors weatherproof ? Yes, the sensors are designed for outdoor use and can withstand harsh environmental conditions, including prolonged submersion and temperature fluctuations.

How are the sensors powered? The sensors are powered by long-lasting batteries and can optionally be connected to solar power for extended use in remote areas. How often do the sensors need maintenance? The sensors are low-maintenance, but we recommend periodic cleaning and calibration to ensure the most accurate readings.

How do I install the sensors?The sensors come with a simple installation guide and mounting kit. If you need assistance, our support team is happy to help.

Can I access the data remotely? Yes, the system includes a cloud-based platform where you can view real-time data and historical trends. The sensors connect wirelessly to upload readings.

Do I need internet connectivity at the monitoring site? Not necessarily. The system supports both cellular and Wi-Fi connectivity options, depending on your location.