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Dru Ellering edited this page May 10, 2023 · 7 revisions

Rather Important

Get the ToF Sensor Operational

As of now, the ToF sensor connection is not operational and thus the code is untested but works in theory (see the VL53L0X files).

Finish Testing the Current Prototype

Due to the ToF sensor being unoperational along with other delays, we were unable to completely finish the testing described below.

Frequency Testing

Template can be found here.

Overview

Three different species of plants will be measured with the prototype ChlF sensor for fluorescence reponse at various exitationfrequencies. Measuring will occur in a dark adapted environment for all samples, with a 5 minute period for the plant to settle after a measurement is taken. During the first three trials, WaveForms will be used to record voltage readouts and determine proper timing for the automated samples. The last three trials will be performed by the microcontroller and will be reported wirelessly to a display monitor.

Purpose

The purpose of this experiment is a) determine what the optimum frequency for the lock-in amplifier is, b) determine if different plant species have different optimum frequencies, and c) validate that microcontroller values agree with the values obtained with WaveForms

Farfield Image Testing

Template can be found here.

Overview

The HFS prototype's farfield image will be characterized using computer software. Images of the pattern will be taken with multiple spot measurements using an Apogee PAR sensor. Image processing software will be used to extrapolate a linear relationship between the spot measurements and pixel color inensity, characterizing the farfield image.

Purpose

The purpose of this experiment is to... a) to mathematically characterize the device's farfield pattern and b) validate the LED Simulation's farfield light pattern

Noise Testing

Run the device with and without a large amount of EMR (like running a drill next to the device) and ensure there is no difference in signals. Make sure to dark adapt the plant for at least 10 minutes in between each measurement.

Distance Testing

Template can be found here.

Overview

The affect of distance on the HFS readings will be measured and recorded. ChlF factor reponses are expected to be constant in relation to distance, normalized ChlF is expected to follow the inverse square law, and the distance sensor should report the same values as the physically measured distances.

Purpose

The purpose of this experiment is to... a) the ChlF factor remains constant as distance from the plant increases, b) determine how sensitive the device is to photon flux, c) validate the distance sensor is working properly, and d) validate simulation results

Test the Multicolored LED Board

See which LEDs are able to reliably detect flourescence and decide on which colors to include. These colors should be chosen not only for their sensitivity, but also for the ability to calculate the various parameters (see here). We can flash two LED colors in series, getting readings seperately for each color to calculate such parameters. If you have not read the rest of the guide, I highly reccomend you do so to understand the reasoning for having multiple LED colors. This might also mean a redesign of the LED board!

Redesign the Circuitry Connections

Specifically, the connection from the ESP32 to the LED. Talk to Rick and consult the technical documentation for more information.

Slim Down the Device

The device should be able to be held in one hand like a flashlight. Controlling the device will likely be done via a phone application instead of a builtin screen.

The Far-off Future

These are some nice things to have in a final product of the device.

Develop a Mobile Friendly UI and Application

We can turn a mobile phone into a server that only connects to one sensor, thus eliminating the need to attach a screen to the device. This can be used to control the device as well as explore and export the readings it takes.

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