Experimental Incubator/ei prototype designing
Here you can find info about the development of the experimental incubator (ei)current version 5.0 "Kvas" which we are now working on. There are several improvements compared to the previous version 4.0 Just, the fourth generation of the experimental incubator.
The main change is leaving the arduino core behind and switching for the Sonoff device, in particular the Sonoff TH16 model which should make our life much more easy on many fronts.
How to get involved, contact
Get your kit and let us know! That is the most easy way how to get in and participating. Contact Algoldor, Justa or send an email to the experimental incubator mailing list. The total cost is around €25 max. you can buy it easily online, don't forget also the serial to usb 3.3v so you can upload the code to the device.
If you want to get involved, you need help with experimental incubator set up and running or you have some other questions you can get in touch with us:
- at our experimental incubator mailing list
- directly with Algoldor by sending email to algoldor (you know the sign) foodhackingbase.org
- directly with Justa
- pop in our #foodhackingbase channel at oftc network, IRC
Soldering and connection
This needs to be updated because of the switch to Sonoff. It should be much more easy but still sometimes the device may arrive with some soldering needing to be done.
Schematics
Not sure if this category is still needed for this version.
Software
We have to discuss the software sources, there are many out there one of them for example BrewPiLess.
Programming
You will need a serial to usb 3.3v.
Currently Run Prototypes
The prototypes which are currently running the "just" version are listed here:
- experimental_incubator_just_la_cherche, person coordinating Algoldor
Temperature probes
The DS18B20 temperature probes used have PVC shielding; that makes them unsuitable for long time use at temperatures of 100°C or above, although the sensor works up to 125°C. Some sensors are shielded with PTFE cable (more commonly known as Teflon) which is considered food safe to 160°C, so these sensors can be used up to 125°C (max sensor range). Here are some ordering options:
- BME280 Digital Sensor Temperature Humidity Barometric Pressure Sensor Modul
- [Cheapest found on DX - lead only 90cm, not 100!] eu 2.26
- [Cheap and tested sensor from DX] eu 2.53
- [Slightly nicer due to pins on leads] eu 3.37
- [Local source delivers very quickly] eu 3.25
- [Adafruit never cheap] $9.95
- [PTFE version on AliExpress] $8.50
- [PFTE version on ebay] eu 12.47
- [PTFE version on Adafruit - never cheap] $14.95
- [Local supply of PTFE version] eu 14.95
Bugs&Issues
So far no errors because we are not testing yet (2/9/2019).