Automatic Aquarium Water Changer

Problem Statement:

There is currently no product on the market that can automatically and efficiently complete a water change on a moderately sized fresh water aquarium with minimal user intervention. The proposed solution is to use a series of pumps, controlled by an Arduino, to regulate and change a predetermined amount of water. To achieve this, pump specifications including power, voltage, and amperage will need to be determined so that we can accurately control them without harming the Arduino or the pumps themselves. Therefore, we will need to perform some electrical analysis and research methods of controlling a pump with an Arduino. We will also need to perform some rudimentary pipe flow analyses to understand the correct placement for the pumps to ensure the flow rates are such that the system performs a 20% water change of a 20-gallon tank. We will validate the solution to the customer needs by creating the entire system to remove waste water and refill the tank with freshwater. The system will be automated and do a water change every week at the same time. To convey this, we will show that the system will do the water change every day for 7 days. This will save time and still portray the automation of the proposed solution.