drain sweeper (idk)

Inspiration

One of our groupmates had this inspiration when he was sitting at a bus stop and saw water failing to get into a clogged drain on a rainy day.

What it does

1. Drain is clogged with leaves or other types of debris
2. Water overflows from the drain and floods the surrounding area
3. Water sensor senses the water
4. Motor is activated and causes the brush to move
5. Debris is brushed away from the drain and flood is removed

How we built it

Using an Arduino Uno, water level sensor, and a step motor, we programmed the motor to run as long as water touches the sensor. We used a glue gun to attach a brush to the motor, which would brush the debris away from the drain.

Challenges we ran into

We had zero knowledge on hardware and it was our first time using an Arduino and its models. When our prototype failed to work, it was also very hard to determine whether it was due to the hardware or code, and if it was hardware, which component was spoilt.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

We managed to build this sensor in just a day and a half with absolutely no knowledge on hardware.

What we learned

How to program an Arduino.

What's next for drain sweeper (idk)

Possible areas for expansion include sending an email to the relevant authorities if the water level does not subside for an extended period of time, or a warning system that sounds to warn people of impending / possible floods.

Built With

• arduino
• c++