Micro Dose Pump

Opportunity: Addressing Unmet Needs

This project arose from a unique opportunity to address an unmet need. Inspired by my fathers struggle to find a reliable solution for precise water dosing, I recognised the need for a high-precision dose device and set out to create an innovative solution that would fill a crucial market gap.

The result is a peristaltic pump that exceeds existing options in accuracy and control, catering to the specific requirements of marine aquariums, hydroponic environments, and thermal water treatments.

Project Description

At the heart of the pump is a hall effect encoder, calibrated to verify the precise number of steps taken by the integrated stepper motor. This closed control system guarantees exceptional accuracy. A sine wave modulator enables whisper-quiet operation, ideal for aquariums and bedroom installations.

Equipped with both WiFi and Bluetooth, users can manage and monitor all internal parameters through a web page or mobile app - enabling real-time data access and on-the-go adjustments for optimal performance.

Evolution: From Prototypes to V3

Currently at its V3 version, the pump represents continuous improvement and refinement. Each version built upon the successes and lessons of its predecessors, demonstrating the evolution and dedication to delivering an exceptional product.

View the image gallery showcasing the prototype evolution and detailed build process.

Key Features

0.01ml Precision: A hall effect encoder in a closed control loop guarantees exceptional dosing accuracy down to 0.01ml.. Closed Control System: The encoder continuously verifies step count, ensuring consistent and repeatable performance across all operating conditions.. Silent Operation: A sine wave modulator drives the stepper motor with minimal vibration and near-silent operation.. WiFi & Bluetooth: Full wireless connectivity for remote monitoring and control from a web browser or mobile app.. Micro-Dosing: Precisely calibrated for micro-dosing in marine aquariums, hydroponic nutrient systems, and thermal water treatments.. Mobile App Control: Full parameter control, real-time feedback, and dosing schedule management from any smartphone..

Achievements

The Micro Dose Pump stands as a testament to the pursuit of precision in water treatment systems. Its 0.01ml accuracy, closed control loop, silent sine-wave drive, and WiFi/Bluetooth connectivity redefine what a consumer-grade dosing pump can achieve.

Technologies Used

Design & Manufacturing

Autodesk Fusion 360 for full mechanical design. The pump housing and enclosure parts were produced via 3D printing. A custom PCB integrates the hall effect encoder, motor driver, and ESP32 in a compact form factor.

Technologies included: Autodesk Fusion 360, 3D Printing, Custom PCB.

Software & Connectivity

The ESP32 handles all control logic, WiFi, and Bluetooth. Blynk IoT provides the mobile app interface, while MQTT enables real-time messaging for home automation integration.

Technologies included: ESP 32, Blynk IoT, MQTT, WiFi.