Minimalist Smart Planter

The smart planter fits most herbs bought in the supermarket, and will help keep is fresh for longer and help water the plants correctly. And you could also use it to grow your own herbs.

I made this with two of my schoolmates, for a school project. And sorry for the lack of images, but I have not been able to go to school and take more, because of the current situation in the world.

Hope you like it.

Supplies

- A 3D printer and at least one spool of any color PLA filament (or you could use a 3D service like Shapeways to print it for you)

- 4 mm plywood and access to a laser cutter

- Short white LED strip

- Power supply for LED strip

- Two bolts and two wingnuts

- Wood glue and hot glue

- Some sort of waterproof or watertight paint, since the 3D-print can leak water. For instance this one.

Step 1: The Parts

3D printing

Print the .stl files below or from thingiverse here.

You will have to print the following:

- The Bottom (White)

- The Middle (Black)

Now is the time to test if the Bottom is able to hold water. If not, you can spray or paint on some sort of watertight paint, and let it dry.

Laser cutting

Cut the .svg files below or from thingiverse here.

You have to laser cut the following in 4mm plywood:

- The Handle

- The Ring

! Note that the Handle unfortunately is to flimsy to be able to be used as a handle, and is therefore only there to mount the LED strip on.

Electronics

Solder the end of the LED strip to the power supply.

Check to see if it works and is soldered correctly, by plugging it into the wall, and turning it on.

Step 2: Assembly

1. Insert the bolts in the Bottom from the inside

2. Plant the plant in the 3D printed Middle

3. Place the Middle in the Bottom

4. Bend the Ring around the Bottom, and glue it in the ends with wood glue. Hold it in place, while the glue dries, with a clamp.

5. Secure the Handle on the bolts, with the wingnuts

6. Glue the LED strip to the underside of the Handle, with hot glue