Automatic aeroponic irrigation system based on Arduino's platform
The recirculating hydroponic culture techniques, as aeroponics, has several advantages over traditional agriculture, aimed to improve the efficiently and environmental impact of agriculture. These techniques require continuous monitoring and automation for proper operation. In this work was developed an automatic monitored aeroponic irrigation system based on the Arduino's free software platform. Analog and digital sensors for measuring the temperature, flow and level of a nutrient solution in a real greenhouse were implemented. In addition, the pH and electric conductivity of nutritive solutions are monitored using the Arduino's differential configuration. The sensor network, the acquisition and automation system are managed by two Arduinos modules in master slave configuration, which communicate one each other wireless by Wi Fi. Further, data are stored in micro SD memories and the information is loaded on a web page in real time. The developed device brings important agronomic information when is tested with an arugula culture (Eruca sativa Mill) The system also could be employ as an early warning system to prevent irrigation malfunctions.