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Field-deployable environmental monitoring solution for real-time ecosystem research.
Overview:
Overview:
S.M.A.R.T. is a field-deployable, low-cost environmental monitoring system designed to support researchers, conservationists, citizen scientists and educators in tracking and assessing micro-ecosystems in real time. Built on an Arduino-based platform (R4 Wi-Fi), the system measures temperature and humidity in remote habitats such as wetlands, salamander breeding sites, turtle nests, and other essential ecosystems. Data is stored on an SD card and can be accessed through a simple web interface, all without the need for an external internet connection.
Key Features:
Key Features:
Real-time Environmental Monitoring:
Tracks temperature and humidity, crucial for understanding ecosystems vulnerable to climate variability.Field-Deployable:
Operates independently in remote locations and provides data access through Wi-Fi, allowing retrieval on mobile devices (phones, tablets, or laptops).No Internet Required:
Creates its own Wi-Fi hotspot, enabling on-site data download directly to your mobile device.Data Storage:
Automatically stores data on an SD card, offering backup even if the device is not accessed right away.Low-Cost, Scalable Solution:
Affordable and scalable for researchers, schools, environmental groups, and citizen scientists, with the ability to monitor multiple habitats.Ideal for Sensitive Microhabitats:
Perfect for tracking small, vulnerable environments like amphibian nesting sites, reptile burrows, and vernal pools, with versatility for other habitats requiring temperature and humidity monitoring.
How It Works:
Deployment:
Place S.M.A.R.T. in a habitat for monitoring (e.g., salamander breeding area, turtle nesting site).Data Collection:
The system records temperature and humidity every 15 minutes(adjustable) and stores the data on an SD card.Data Access:
On-site, connect your mobile device to S.M.A.R.T.'s built-in Wi-Fi to download the collected data.Data Use:
Downloaded data can be shared, emailed, or analyzed for climate research, wildlife monitoring, and ecosystem health assessments.
Future Expansion (and beyond):
S.M.A.R.T. is currently in Phase One — this is an evolving, field-tested system that will continue to grow as new features, feedback, and real-world challenges shape its development.
This is just the beginning.
Solar-Powered Options:
Future versions will include solar power for continuous operation in remote locations.Scalable Design:
Can be deployed across various ecosystems, from wetlands to forests, to track environmental factors in a wide range of habitats.Integration with Research Networks:
The potential to integrate into broader citizen science or academic research programs for real-time ecological monitoring.Weatherproof boxing
Cost effective weatherproof boxing for easy deployment and in field management
Get Involved:
S.M.A.R.T. is a great tool for engaging in hands-on ecological research. Whether you're a scientist, educator, or conservationist, it’s perfect for monitoring vital ecosystems. Contact me to collaborate, test, or learn more!
S.M.A.R.T. is currently in active development. This is an original concept designed and created by FESSLER IT CONSULTING for the advancement of community-based environmental monitoring. I’m always interested in collaborations to expand and refine this project.
View the project on GitHub:
Image 1: S.M.A.R.T. Web Interface Display
Image 1: S.M.A.R.T. Web Interface Display
The built-in web interface allows users to wirelessly access environmental data recorded by the S.M.A.R.T. node. Data is read directly from the onboard SD card and displayed in real time through a browser, with no internet connection required. Users can copy and share this data instantly via email, text, or cloud upload—making remote ecosystem monitoring simple, portable, and accessible.
Image 2: S.M.A.R.T. Hardware Unit (Scale Shown)
Image 2: S.M.A.R.T. Hardware Unit (Scale Shown)
The S.M.A.R.T. device features an Arduino R4 Wi-Fi board, a temperature and humidity sensor (DHT), and an SD Shield for local data storage. Shown here with a quarter for scale, the compact design supports low-energy operation—ideal for long-term deployment in field environments. This lightweight, cost-effective setup is easy to deploy and maintain in remote microhabitats.
Live Data Streaming via Webpage on Arduino
SMART deployed to Solar Panel Controller
Assembling the Arduino in its Weatherproof Enclosure
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