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report:dvp [2026/06/11 20:00] – [7.6.4 Tests & Results] team4report:dvp [2026/06/14 23:33] (current) – [7.4.3 Structure] team4
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 Several material options were explored, including basalt fabric-reinforced structures, polymer-clay, bacterial HSC, ECOncrete, recycled glass, and Biorock. Each material had its own advantages and disadvantages. Some were more expensive, while others were less suitable for coral growth or did not provide the level of porosity needed by marine organisms. Since fish and corals benefit from rough and porous surfaces, this became an important factor in the decision-making process. Several material options were explored, including basalt fabric-reinforced structures, polymer-clay, bacterial HSC, ECOncrete, recycled glass, and Biorock. Each material had its own advantages and disadvantages. Some were more expensive, while others were less suitable for coral growth or did not provide the level of porosity needed by marine organisms. Since fish and corals benefit from rough and porous surfaces, this became an important factor in the decision-making process.
  
-After comparing the different options, basalt fabric-reinforced concrete was selected as the most suitable material for the project design. This material offered a strong balance between cost, weight, stability, and ecological suitability. It is not overly expensive, heavy enough to remain stable underwater, and easy to shape into modular forms. In addition, its porous surface makes it a good choice for encouraging coral growth and creating shelter for fish. The material can be formed by first making a mold in the desired shape and then placing the basalt fabric or mesh inside it. Depending on the required strength, the fabric can be arranged in one or several layers. Fine concrete or mortar is then poured, sprayed, or pressed around the reinforcement. After curing, the concrete becomes rigid while the basalt fabric remains embedded inside as reinforcement. For these reasons, basalt fabric-reinforced concrete was chosen as the best material for the final concept.+After comparing the different options, basalt fabric-reinforced concrete was selected as the most suitable material for the project design. This material offered a strong balance between cost, weight, stability, and ecological suitability. It is not overly expensive, heavy enough to remain stable underwater, and easy to shape into modular forms. In addition, its porous surface makes it a good choice for encouraging coral growth and creating shelter for fish. The material can be formed by first making a mould in the desired shape and then placing the basalt fabric or mesh inside it. Depending on the required strength, the fabric can be arranged in one or several layers. Fine concrete or mortar is then poured, sprayed, or pressed around the reinforcement. After curing, the concrete becomes rigid while the basalt fabric remains embedded inside as reinforcement. For these reasons, basalt fabric-reinforced concrete was chosen as the best material for the final concept.
 ==== 7.3 Concept ==== ==== 7.3 Concept ====
 The final concept selected for Maris Habitats is a modular artificial marine habitat built from one repeated cone-shaped element, as shown in Figure {{ref>fig:modular_structureSM}}. These modules can be connected side by side and stacked vertically, allowing the habitat to be expanded according to site conditions and ecological requirements. By using one repeated part, the system remains simple, scalable, and easy to reproduce, while still allowing a wide variety of structural arrangements. The final concept selected for Maris Habitats is a modular artificial marine habitat built from one repeated cone-shaped element, as shown in Figure {{ref>fig:modular_structureSM}}. These modules can be connected side by side and stacked vertically, allowing the habitat to be expanded according to site conditions and ecological requirements. By using one repeated part, the system remains simple, scalable, and easy to reproduce, while still allowing a wide variety of structural arrangements.
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 <figure fig:smartblock3> <figure fig:smartblock3>
 |{{ :report:foto3.5.1.png?600 |}}| {{ :report:foto3.4.jpeg?600 |}} | |{{ :report:foto3.5.1.png?600 |}}| {{ :report:foto3.4.jpeg?600 |}} |
-<caption>Final variation of the smartblock assembly.</caption>+<caption>Final Smart Module assembly.</caption>
 </figure> </figure>
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
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 <figure fig:smartblock3.1> <figure fig:smartblock3.1>
 {{ :report:gemini_generated_image_et4dm5et4dm5et4d.png?600 |}} {{ :report:gemini_generated_image_et4dm5et4dm5et4d.png?600 |}}
-<caption>Final variation of the smartblock.</caption>+<caption>Final Smart Module.</caption>
 </figure> </figure>
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
 +
 +In Figure {{ref>fig:Structuraldrawingmodularblock}} you can see the technical drawings of the Reef Block and the Smartlogger attachment.
  
 <WRAP centeralign> <WRAP centeralign>
-<figure fig:Structural drawing modular block>+<figure fig:Structuraldrawingmodularblock>
 |{{:report:schermafbeelding_2026-06-11_093818.png?600|}}|{{:report:schermafbeelding_2026-06-11_101357.png?600|}}| |{{:report:schermafbeelding_2026-06-11_093818.png?600|}}|{{:report:schermafbeelding_2026-06-11_101357.png?600|}}|
 <caption>Structural drawings</caption> <caption>Structural drawings</caption>
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 </WRAP> </WRAP>
  
 +To protect the smartlogger we designed a protecting roof so algea won't be growing on the smartlogger that much. In Figure {{ref>fig:roof}} you see the roof attached to the Smartlogger.
 +<WRAP centeralign>
 +<figure fig:roof>
 +{{:report:01312cb0-669c-4600-b130-48574042503b.jpg?600|}}
 +<caption>Roof</caption>
 +</figure>
 +</WRAP>
  
 ==Stress analysis of the structure== ==Stress analysis of the structure==
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 For the structural simulations, basalt fabric reinforced concrete was used as the material definition. This material was chosen because the structure is intended to be placed underwater and therefore needs to resist external water pressure while remaining strong, durable and relatively stiff. To define the material in SOLIDWORKS, several mechanical and thermal properties were entered. The most important values are an elastic modulus of 3.6 × 10¹⁰ N/m², a Poisson’s ratio of 0.20, a density of 2400 kg/m³, a tensile strength of 6.0 × 10⁶ N/m², and a compressive strength of 5.5 × 10⁷ N/m². These values are close to the expected behavior of a concrete-based material: the material is relatively stiff, has a high resistance to compression, but is much weaker in tension. This is important because concrete does not behave like a metal. It does not really “yield” plastically, but it is more likely to crack when the tensile stress becomes too high or crush when the compressive stress becomes too high. Therefore, the entered yield strength of 6.0 × 10⁶ N/m² should only be seen as an approximate reference value, mainly because SOLIDWORKS requires a yield strength for certain safety factor calculations. For this reason, the von Mises stress and standard factor of safety are not the most suitable failure criteria for this material. Instead, the first principal stress is used to evaluate tensile cracking, while the third principal stress is used to evaluate compressive failure. For the structural simulations, basalt fabric reinforced concrete was used as the material definition. This material was chosen because the structure is intended to be placed underwater and therefore needs to resist external water pressure while remaining strong, durable and relatively stiff. To define the material in SOLIDWORKS, several mechanical and thermal properties were entered. The most important values are an elastic modulus of 3.6 × 10¹⁰ N/m², a Poisson’s ratio of 0.20, a density of 2400 kg/m³, a tensile strength of 6.0 × 10⁶ N/m², and a compressive strength of 5.5 × 10⁷ N/m². These values are close to the expected behavior of a concrete-based material: the material is relatively stiff, has a high resistance to compression, but is much weaker in tension. This is important because concrete does not behave like a metal. It does not really “yield” plastically, but it is more likely to crack when the tensile stress becomes too high or crush when the compressive stress becomes too high. Therefore, the entered yield strength of 6.0 × 10⁶ N/m² should only be seen as an approximate reference value, mainly because SOLIDWORKS requires a yield strength for certain safety factor calculations. For this reason, the von Mises stress and standard factor of safety are not the most suitable failure criteria for this material. Instead, the first principal stress is used to evaluate tensile cracking, while the third principal stress is used to evaluate compressive failure.
-The simulation process was carried out in two stages. First, one separate module was analysed to understand the basic behavior of a single part under underwater pressure and gravity. This helped to identify the main stress concentrations, displacement pattern and general stiffness of the geometry. Afterwards, a larger assembly of multiple connected modules was simulated to evaluate how the complete structure behaves when the load is distributed over the full system. The goal of these simulations is to check whether the stresses remain below the assumed tensile and compressive strength of the material, and whether the displacement and strain stay limited. Ideally, the results should show low deformation, acceptable principal stresses and no critical compression or tensile cracking zones. Special attention is given to the connections between the vertical supports and the beams, because these areas are expected to create the highest local stress concentrations.+The simulation process was carried out in two stages. First, one separate module was analyzed to understand the basic behavior of a single part under underwater pressure and gravity. This helped to identify the main stress concentrations, displacement pattern and general stiffness of the geometry. Afterwards, a larger assembly of multiple connected modules was simulated to evaluate how the complete structure behaves when the load is distributed over the full system. The goal of these simulations is to check whether the stresses remain below the assumed tensile and compressive strength of the material, and whether the displacement and strain stay limited. Ideally, the results should show low deformation, acceptable principal stresses and no critical compression or tensile cracking zones. Special attention is given to the connections between the vertical supports and the beams, because these areas are expected to create the highest local stress concentrations.
  
 **Stress test concrete block** **Stress test concrete block**
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 The factor of safety plot confirms that the structure remains safe under the applied underwater pressure and gravity load case. The minimum factor of safety is approximately 7.49, which is well above the usual minimum requirement of 1.5–2.0 for many static structural checks. This means that the maximum stress in the structure is still far below the assumed material strength. Although most of the model appears red, this does not mean failure; it only means these areas have the lowest safety factor within the selected color scale. Since the minimum value is still around 7.5, the structure has a large safety margin. The most critical region is again located near the connection between the cone-shaped support and the central beam, which matches the stress and strain results. Overall, the design appears structurally safe for this simplified 30-meter underwater loading condition. The factor of safety plot confirms that the structure remains safe under the applied underwater pressure and gravity load case. The minimum factor of safety is approximately 7.49, which is well above the usual minimum requirement of 1.5–2.0 for many static structural checks. This means that the maximum stress in the structure is still far below the assumed material strength. Although most of the model appears red, this does not mean failure; it only means these areas have the lowest safety factor within the selected color scale. Since the minimum value is still around 7.5, the structure has a large safety margin. The most critical region is again located near the connection between the cone-shaped support and the central beam, which matches the stress and strain results. Overall, the design appears structurally safe for this simplified 30-meter underwater loading condition.
  
-**Strength test full strucure**+**Strength test full structure**
 <WRAP centeralign> <WRAP centeralign>
 <figure fig:simulation 5> <figure fig:simulation 5>
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   - Fish and sea life (bottom right corner) are under observation. Fish and algae will be monitored (presence and size) to determine biodiversity and measure photosynthetic effects and chlorophyll on surfaces.   - Fish and sea life (bottom right corner) are under observation. Fish and algae will be monitored (presence and size) to determine biodiversity and measure photosynthetic effects and chlorophyll on surfaces.
  
-All this data will be reunited and sent to the On Board Computer (OBC) while also getting a timestamp by a Real Time Clock (RTC). All this will be powered by the battery through a Power Management System (PMS) that received the power from the buoy.+All this data will be collected and combined and sent to the On Board Computer (OBC) while also getting a timestamp by a Real Time Clock (RTC). All this will be powered by the battery through a Power Management System (PMS) that received the power from the buoy.
  
 Both the buoy and the structure will have a positioning module, that will count with an Inertial Measuring Unit (IMU), a Doppler velocity Log (DVL) and a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver, to have everything registered about the position of both elements and make sure nothing goes wrong due to external factors such as storms, currents or human factors. Both the buoy and the structure will have a positioning module, that will count with an Inertial Measuring Unit (IMU), a Doppler velocity Log (DVL) and a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver, to have everything registered about the position of both elements and make sure nothing goes wrong due to external factors such as storms, currents or human factors.
  
-From the structure to the buoy, there will be a chain and a cable, for both structural support and data and power connection between the 2 elements. Finally, all the data collected will be sent to a data center, this will be done via the standard Iridium Satellite Network.+From the structure to the buoy, there will be a chain and a cable, for both structural support and data and power connection between the two elements. Finally, all the data collected will be sent to a data center, this will be done through the standard Iridium Satellite Network.
  
 The main output will be a report with all the obtained data. The main output will be a report with all the obtained data.
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 == Version 1.5 (V1.5) Buoy-Connected System 1.5  == == Version 1.5 (V1.5) Buoy-Connected System 1.5  ==
  
-Version 1.5 is presented in a more text‑based format instead of graphical form, as it is a more accurate representation of the system’s black‑box diagram. It is also a bit simplified+Version 1.5 is presented in a more text‑based format instead of graphical form, as it is a more accurate representation of the system’s black‑box diagram. It is also a simplified.
  
 <WRAP centeralign> <WRAP centeralign>
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 The inclusion of a camera system is therefore limited to supporting species identification, specifically to document the presence of fish within the reef environment. In addition, visual documentation of the reef structure will be conducted during annual maintenance operations, during which images of the installation will be captured once per year. The inclusion of a camera system is therefore limited to supporting species identification, specifically to document the presence of fish within the reef environment. In addition, visual documentation of the reef structure will be conducted during annual maintenance operations, during which images of the installation will be captured once per year.
  
-Figure {{ref>fig:enclosure}} shows what the enclosure will look like with all the electronics inside. The picture on the left is with the sensors included. The picture on the right is without the sensors to show how much space the rest of the electronics will use. +Figure {{ref>fig:enclosure}} shows what the enclosure will look like with all the electronics inside. The image on the left includes the sensors. The picture on the right is without the sensors to show how much space the rest of the electronics will use. 
  
 <WRAP centeralign> <WRAP centeralign>
 <figure fig:enclosure> <figure fig:enclosure>
 |{{ :report:foto4.1.png?600 |}}| |{{ :report:foto4.2.png?600 |}}| |{{ :report:foto4.1.png?600 |}}| |{{ :report:foto4.2.png?600 |}}|
-<caption>Inside of the enclosure with and without sensors.</caption>+<caption>Inside the enclosure with and without sensors.</caption>
 </figure> </figure>
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
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 The software runs on the microcontroller inside the smartlogger. Its main purpose is to control the measurement cycle, read data from the sensors, organize the collected values, and store them safely on the SD card. This approach reduces system complexity, lowers power consumption, and avoids the need for continuous underwater communication. The software runs on the microcontroller inside the smartlogger. Its main purpose is to control the measurement cycle, read data from the sensors, organize the collected values, and store them safely on the SD card. This approach reduces system complexity, lowers power consumption, and avoids the need for continuous underwater communication.
  
-When the final product is activated, the software first initializes the microcontroller, sensors, real-time clock, and SD card module. The real-time clock is used to give each measurement a timestamp, so that the data can be analysed later in the correct time order. If the SD card is detected correctly, the software creates or opens a data file for storing the measurements.+When the final product is activated, the software first initializes the microcontroller, sensors, real-time clock, and SD card module. The real-time clock is used to give each measurement a timestamp, so that the data can be analyzed later in the correct time order. If the SD card is detected correctly, the software creates or opens a data file for storing the measurements.
  
 During operation, the system performs measurements at predefined time intervals, for example once per hour. In each measurement cycle, the microcontroller wakes up, powers or activates the sensors, waits briefly for the readings to stabilize, and then collects data such as temperature, pressure/depth, pH, and conductivity. After the values are collected, they are formatted into a structured data line and written to the SD card. During operation, the system performs measurements at predefined time intervals, for example once per hour. In each measurement cycle, the microcontroller wakes up, powers or activates the sensors, waits briefly for the readings to stabilize, and then collects data such as temperature, pressure/depth, pH, and conductivity. After the values are collected, they are formatted into a structured data line and written to the SD card.
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 ==== 7.5.3 Packaging ==== ==== 7.5.3 Packaging ====
  
-The packaging design was planned separately for the smartlogger and the modular habitat unit because these parts have different sizes, weights, and protection needs. The smartlogger is the complete removable monitoring unit, including the metal support frame and the smart box. The smart box contains the electronic components, battery, SD card, and sensors. Therefore, the smartlogger needs protection from shock, dust, moisture, and vibration during transport. On the other hand, the modular habitat unit is much heavier and does not require the same type of protective case, so its transport solution must focus more on stability, safe handling, and movement prevention.+The packaging design was planned separately for the Smart Module and the Reef Block because these parts have different sizes, weights, and protection needs. The Smart Module includes the Smartlogger and the Smartlogger attachment. The Smartlogger contains the electronic components, battery, SD card, and sensors. Therefore, the Smart Module needs protection from shock, dust, moisture, and vibration during transport. On the other hand, the Reef Block is much heavier and does not require the same type of protective case, so its transport solution must focus more on stability, safe handling, and movement prevention.
  
-Figure {{ref>fig:sensor_box_packaging}} shows the packaging concept for the smartlogger. The design is inspired by reusable waterproof hard cases, such as the NANUK 935 Pro Photo Kit. This type of case is suitable for sensitive equipment because it is designed to protect the contents from impact, dust, water, and vibration during transport [(NANUK935)]. The NANUK 935 case is made with a lightweight NK-7 resin shell and is described as impact-resistant and shock-absorbent, which makes it appropriate for transporting electronic monitoring equipment [(NANUK935Kit)].+Figure {{ref>fig:sensor_box_packaging}} shows the packaging concept for the Smart Module. The design is inspired by reusable waterproof hard cases, such as the NANUK 935 Pro Photo Kit. This type of case is suitable for sensitive equipment because it is designed to protect the contents from impact, dust, water, and vibration during transport [(nanuk935)]. The NANUK 935 case is made with a lightweight NK-7 resin shell and is described as impact-resistant and shock-absorbent, which makes it appropriate for transporting electronic monitoring equipment [(nanuk935)].
  
-Inside the case, the smartlogger is placed in a custom EVA foam insert. EVA foam was selected because it is lightweight, durable, moisture-resistant, and able to absorb shock. Its closed-cell structure gives it low water absorption, and its cushioning properties make it suitable for protecting sensitive components during transport [(EVAFoam)]. The foam insert is shaped around the smartlogger to reduce movement inside the case and to keep the smartlogger and assembly instruction card organized.+Inside the case, the Smart Module is placed in a custom EVA foam insert. EVA foam was selected because it is lightweight, durable, moisture-resistant, and able to absorb shock. Its closed-cell structure gives it low water absorption, and its cushioning properties make it suitable for protecting sensitive components during transport [(eva_foam)]. The foam insert is shaped around the Smart Module to reduce movement inside the case and to keep the Smart Module and assembly instruction card organized.
  
-The sensors and electronic components are integrated inside the smart box, which is part of the smartlogger. Therefore, no separate sensor set or external sensor cables are included in this packaging concept. An assembly instruction card is included to show how the smart box is attached to the metal support frame and how the protective lid is added before deployment. The EVA foam insert is not considered a single-use material in this concept because it can be reused with the same hard case for storage, deployment, maintenance, and retrieval operations.+The sensors and electronic components are integrated inside the Smartlogger, which is part of the Smart Module. Therefore, no separate sensor set or external sensor cables are included in this packaging concept. An assembly instruction card is included to show how the Smartlogger is attached to the Smartlogger attachment and how the protective lid is added before deployment. The EVA foam insert is not considered a single-use material in this concept because it can be reused with the same hard case for storage, deployment, maintenance, and retrieval operations.
  
-Figure {{ref>fig:modular_unit_packaging}} shows the transport concept for the modular habitat unit. Since this part is heavy and mainly made of concrete, it is transported separately on a wooden pallet instead of being placed inside the blue hard case. Wooden pallets are suitable for transporting heavy goods because they provide a stable load carrier and allow handling with forklifts [(EPALPallet)]. The modular habitat unit is fixed to the pallet using straps to keep the load stable and reduce movement during transport [(PalletStraps)]. This solution reduces unnecessary packaging material while keeping the concrete block stable during handling and transport.+Figure {{ref>fig:modular_unit_packaging}} shows the transport concept for the Reef Block. Since this part is heavy and mainly made of concrete, it is transported separately on a wooden pallet instead of being placed inside the blue hard case. Wooden pallets are suitable for transporting heavy goods because they provide a stable load carrier and allow handling with forklifts [(epal_pallet)]. The Reef Block is fixed to the pallet using straps to keep the load stable and reduce movement during transport [(pallet_straps)]. This solution reduces unnecessary packaging material while keeping the concrete block stable during handling and transport.
  
-The packaging also considers reuse. The waterproof hard case can be used repeatedly for storage, deployment, maintenance, and retrieval of the smartlogger. The pallet can also be reused for several transports if it remains in good condition. For the final version, the foam inserts should be replaced only when damaged. In this way, the packaging can protect the product while also reducing unnecessary waste.+The packaging also considers reuse. The waterproof hard case can be used repeatedly for storage, deployment, maintenance, and retrieval of the Smart Module. The pallet can also be reused for several transports if it remains in good condition. For the final version, the foam inserts should be replaced only when damaged. In this way, the packaging can protect the product while also reducing unnecessary waste.
  
 These packaging images are concept visuals, so the final packaging may still change after testing. In the next stage, handling and transport tests should be carried out to check whether the hard case, EVA foam insert, pallet, and straps can properly protect the components under real transport conditions. These packaging images are concept visuals, so the final packaging may still change after testing. In the next stage, handling and transport tests should be carried out to check whether the hard case, EVA foam insert, pallet, and straps can properly protect the components under real transport conditions.
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 <figure fig:sensor_box_packaging> <figure fig:sensor_box_packaging>
 {{ :report:smartlogger.png?nolink |}} {{ :report:smartlogger.png?nolink |}}
-<caption> AI-generated packaging concept for the smartlogger transport case </caption>+<caption> AI-generated packaging concept for the Smart Module transport case </caption>
 </figure> </figure>
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
- 
  
 <WRAP centeralign> <WRAP centeralign>
 <figure fig:modular_unit_packaging> <figure fig:modular_unit_packaging>
 {{ :report:modularunit.png?nolink |}} {{ :report:modularunit.png?nolink |}}
-<caption> AI-generated transport concept for the modular habitat unit </caption>+<caption> AI-generated transport concept for the Reef Block </caption>
 </figure> </figure>
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
 +
 ==== 7.6 Prototype ==== ==== 7.6 Prototype ====
  
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 <caption> Table of prototype sensors </caption> <caption> Table of prototype sensors </caption>
  
-| **Sensor** | **Type** | **Power supply** | **Operating current (A)** | **Measurement** | **Price** | **Quantity** | **Supplier** | **Link** | **Comment** | +| **Sensor** | **Type** | **Power supply** | **Operating current (A)** | **Measurement** | **Quantity** | **Link** | **Comment** | 
-| SHT21 | Temperature | 3.3V | 0.0015 | -40°C to +125°C | 6.22 € | 1 | RS | [[https://pt.rs-online.com/web/p/kits-de-desarrollo-de-sensores/2049893?gb=a|link]] | | +| SHT21 | Temperature | 3.3 V | 0.0015 | -40°C to +125°C | 1 | [[https://pt.rs-online.com/web/p/kits-de-desarrollo-de-sensores/2049893?gb=a|link]] | | 
-| SEN0244 | TDS (Total dissolved solids) | 3.3V – 5.5V | 0.0060 | 0–1000 ppm | 10.18 € | 1 | Farnell | [[https://pt.farnell.com/en-PT/dfrobot/sen0244/analogue-tds-sensor-meter-kit/dp/3517934|link]] | | +| SEN0244 | TDS (Total dissolved solids) | 3.3–5.5 V | 0.0060 | 0–1000 ppm | 1 | [[https://pt.farnell.com/en-PT/dfrobot/sen0244/analogue-tds-sensor-meter-kit/dp/3517934|link]] | | 
-| SEN0257 | Pressure | 5V | 0.0028 | 0–16 bar | 15.09 € | 1 | Farnell | [[https://pt.farnell.com/en-PT/dfrobot/sen0257/analog-water-press-sensor-arduino/dp/4308257|link]] | Not suitable for open seawater | +| SEN0257 | Pressure | 5 V | 0.0028 | 0–16 bar | 1 | [[https://pt.farnell.com/en-PT/dfrobot/sen0257/analog-water-press-sensor-arduino/dp/4308257|link]] | Not suitable for open seawater | 
-| SEN0189 | Turbidity | 5V | 0.0400 | 0–3000 NTU | 8.41 € | 1 | DigiKey | [[https://www.digikey.pt/en/products/detail/dfrobot/SEN0189/6588606|link]] | Measures water turbidity | +| SEN0189 | Turbidity | 5 V | 0.0400 | 0–3000 NTU | 1 | [[https://www.digikey.pt/en/products/detail/dfrobot/SEN0189/6588606|link]] | Measures water turbidity | 
-| **Total** |  |  | **0.0503** |  | **39.90 €** |  |  |  |  |+| **Total** | | | **0.0503** | | | | | 
  
 </table> </table>
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 In the prototype, an Arduino Uno R3 is used as the microcontroller. Since the Arduino Uno lacks a built-in RTC, an external RTC module is required to enable accurate timekeeping. The system operates with a logic voltage of 5 V, whereas the SD card reader operates at 3.3 V logic level. Therefore, a logic level converter is necessary to ensure proper communication between components with different voltage requirements. In the prototype, an Arduino Uno R3 is used as the microcontroller. Since the Arduino Uno lacks a built-in RTC, an external RTC module is required to enable accurate timekeeping. The system operates with a logic voltage of 5 V, whereas the SD card reader operates at 3.3 V logic level. Therefore, a logic level converter is necessary to ensure proper communication between components with different voltage requirements.
    
-The prototype is powered by a 9 V, 640 mAh alkaline battery. Due to its limited capacity, the operational time of the prototype is significantly shorter than that of the final system, restricting testing and data collection to a period of only a few days. Therefore, the prototype is intended primarily as a proof of concept. +The prototype is powered by a 9 V, 640 mAh alkaline battery. Due to its limited capacity, the operational time of the prototype is significantly shorter than that of the final system, restricting testing and data collection to a period of only a few hours. Therefore, the prototype is intended primarily as a proof of concept. Since the battery voltage decreases gradually during discharge, the battery cannot be assumed to be fully depleted before the supply voltage falls below the minimum operating voltage required by the electronics. Therefore, only 70% of the nominal battery capacity is considered usable in the present calculations.
-The estimated energy consumption is based on the system’s calculated power usage of 0.894 W. To reduce overall energy demand, the system is designed to operate intermittently, remaining active for only one minute per hour.+
  
-Battery capacity: 9 V * 0.64 Ah = 5.76 Wh 
  
-Daily energy consumption (1 min/hour operation): 0.894 W / 60 * 24 h = 0.357 Wh/day+The estimated energy consumption is based on the system’s calculated power usage of 0.92 W.
  
-Number of days: 5.76 Wh / 0.357 Wh/day ≈ 16 days+Battery capacity: 9 V * 0.64 Ah * 0.7 = 4.03 Wh 
 + 
 +Battery time: 4.03 Wh / 0.92 W ≈ 4 h
  
 The other electronic components used in the prototype are listed in Table {{ref>tab:labelproto_components}}. The other electronic components used in the prototype are listed in Table {{ref>tab:labelproto_components}}.
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 <caption> Table of electrical components </caption> <caption> Table of electrical components </caption>
  
-| **Product** | **Type** | **Power supply** | **Operating current (A)** | **Output** | **Price** | **Quantity** | **Supplier** | **Link** | **Comment** | +| **Product** | **Type** | **Power supply** | **Operating current (A)** | **Output** | **Quantity** | **Link** | 
-| Adafruit 254 | SD - module | 3.3–6 V | 0.1 |  | 11.60 € | 1 | RS | [[https://pt.rs-online.com/web/p/accesorios-para-kits-de-desarrollo/2881813|link]] |  | +| Arduino ABX00080 | Microcontroller | 6–24 V | 0.038 | 5 V | 1 | [[https://pt.farnell.com/en-PT/arduino/abx00080/development-board-32bit-arm-cortex/dp/4208543|link]] | 
-| Arduino ABX00080 | Microcontroller | 6–24 V | 0.038 | 5 V | 17.44 € | 1 | Farnell | [[https://pt.farnell.com/en-PT/arduino/abx00080/development-board-32bit-arm-cortex/dp/4208543|link]] |  | +| JOY-IT COM-MSD | SD module | 3.3 V | 0.1 | | 1 | [[https://mauser.pt/095-3621/joy-it-com-msd-modulo-leitor-de-cartoes-micro-sd-spi|link]] | 
-| FDMM004GMC-XE00 | MicroSD card |  |  |  | 21.88 € | 1 | Farnell | [[https://pt.farnell.com/en-PT/flexxon/fdmm004gmc-xe00/microsd-card-4gb-mlc-cmrcl-grd/dp/4378808|link]] |  | +| FDMM004GMC-XE00 | MicroSD card | | | | 1 | [[https://pt.farnell.com/en-PT/flexxon/fdmm004gmc-xe00/microsd-card-4gb-mlc-cmrcl-grd/dp/4378808|link]] | 
-| 4022211111 | 9V alkaline battery |  |  | 9 V 0.64 Ah | 5.47 € | 1 | Farnell | [[https://pt.farnell.com/en-PT/varta/4022211111/battery-alkaline-9v-pp3-1pk/dp/4584139|link]] |  | +| 4022211111 | 9 V alkaline battery | | | 9 V 0.64 Ah | 1 | [[https://pt.farnell.com/en-PT/varta/4022211111/battery-alkaline-9v-pp3-1pk/dp/4584139|link]] | 
-| MP007080 | Battery holder |  |  |  | 3.41 € | 1 | Farnell | [[https://pt.farnell.com/en-PT/multicomp-pro/mp007080/battery-holder-snap-on-8-wire/dp/3652120|link]] | Pack of 5 | +| MP007080 | Battery contact | | | | 1 | [[https://pt.farnell.com/multicomp-pro/mp007080/battery-holder-snap-on-8-wire/dp/3652120?gross_price=true|link]] | 
-| MCKNP03UJ0251B00 | 250 ohm resistance |  |  |  | 0.56 € | 1 | Farnell | [[https://pt.farnell.com/en-PT/multicomp-pro/mcknp03uj0251b00/res-250r-5-3w-axial-wirewound/dp/1903835|link]] |  | +| RTC Tiny For Arduino | RTC | 5 V | | | 1 | [[https://rlx.sk/en/time-measuring-boards-rtc/3474-rtc-tiny-for-arduino-er-smi00101s-ds1307-i2c-cr1225.html?gad_source=1|link]] | 
-| FIT0096 | Breadboard |  |  |  | 2.50 € | 1 | Farnell | [[https://pt.farnell.com/en-PT/dfrobot/fit0096/solderless-breadboard-3-2-x2-4/dp/3879683|link]] |  | +| **Total** | | | **0.138** | | | | 
-| **Total** |  |  | **0.138** |  | **62.86 €** |  |  |  |  |+
  
 </table> </table>
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 For prototype testing, a low-cost solution is used both for the enclosure and structural elements. A simple plastic lunchbox can serve as a temporary enclosure, where holes can be drilled for sensor placement, making it suitable for controlled testing before investing in the final underwater housing. In addition, standard cement is used for structural testing, as it provides sufficient strength at a very low cost. These materials are summarized in Table {{ref>tab:labelproto_materials}}. For prototype testing, a low-cost solution is used both for the enclosure and structural elements. A simple plastic lunchbox can serve as a temporary enclosure, where holes can be drilled for sensor placement, making it suitable for controlled testing before investing in the final underwater housing. In addition, standard cement is used for structural testing, as it provides sufficient strength at a very low cost. These materials are summarized in Table {{ref>tab:labelproto_materials}}.
  
-PLA filament can be used either as an alternative material for the blocks. It can be used to create moulds for casting concrete blocks, or as the structure for the prototype instead of concrete. This allows for greater flexibility and repeatability during the design and testing phase. However, PLA is not suitable for long-term structural use in harsh environments, and is therefore primarily intended for prototyping and tooling purposes.+PLA filament can be used either as an alternative material for the blocks or to create moulds for casting concrete blocks, or as the structure for the prototype instead of concrete. This allows for greater flexibility and repeatability during the design and testing phase. However, PLA is not suitable for long-term structural use in harsh environments, and is therefore primarily intended for prototyping and tooling purposes.
  
 The enclosure used for the prototype is a simplified version of the final system design. To minimize development costs and allow rapid iteration, a standard plastic food container is utilized as the enclosure. To ensure watertight cable penetrations, a silicone‑based sealant is applied at all cable entry points. Silicone sealant is chosen due to its flexibility, ease of application, and adequate waterproofing properties. In addition, the sealant may also be applied along the interface between the lid and the enclosure body if leakage is detected during initial testing The enclosure used for the prototype is a simplified version of the final system design. To minimize development costs and allow rapid iteration, a standard plastic food container is utilized as the enclosure. To ensure watertight cable penetrations, a silicone‑based sealant is applied at all cable entry points. Silicone sealant is chosen due to its flexibility, ease of application, and adequate waterproofing properties. In addition, the sealant may also be applied along the interface between the lid and the enclosure body if leakage is detected during initial testing
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 </table> </table>
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 +
 +The final prototype may not utilize the exact components and materials specified in this study; however, functionally equivalent or closely comparable alternatives are expected to be used.
  
 The electrical schematics for the prototype is presented in figure {{ref>fig:schematic3}}. The electrical schematics for the prototype is presented in figure {{ref>fig:schematic3}}.
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 <figure fig:schematic3> <figure fig:schematic3>
-{{ :0:eps_electrical_schematics_update.pdf?1000 }}+{{ :0:eps_prototype_schematics_final.png?1000 }}
 <caption>Prototype electrical schematics</caption> <caption>Prototype electrical schematics</caption>
 </figure> </figure>
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 When both the SD card and RTC module are ready, the software creates or opens the log.csv file. The program then checks the switch state. If the switch is off, logging is paused. If the switch is on, the system reads the connected sensors. The program then checks whether 10 seconds have passed since the last logging cycle. If not, the system continues reading sensor values. When both the SD card and RTC module are ready, the software creates or opens the log.csv file. The program then checks the switch state. If the switch is off, logging is paused. If the switch is on, the system reads the connected sensors. The program then checks whether 10 seconds have passed since the last logging cycle. If not, the system continues reading sensor values.
  
-When the logging interval has passed, the software retrieves the current time from the RTC module and writes the timestamped sensor data to the SD card. After the data is saved, the program returns to the switch check and repeats the process continuously. This flow ensures that the prototype automatically collects and stores environmental data in a structured way. Figure {{ref>fig:flowchart}} shows the software flowchart of the Maris habitats prototype.+When the logging interval has passed, the software retrieves the current time from the RTC module and writes the timestamped sensor data to the SD card. After the data is saved, the program returns to the switch check and repeats the process continuously. This flow ensures that the prototype automatically collects and stores environmental data in a structured way. Figure {{ref>fig:flowchart}} shows the software flowchart of the Maris Habitats prototype.
  
  
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 <figure fig:flowchart> <figure fig:flowchart>
-{{ :report:flowchart.jpeg?nolink |}}+{{ :report:maris_habitats_flowchart.png?nolink|}}
 <caption>Software flow chart</caption> <caption>Software flow chart</caption>
 </figure> </figure>
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 The test confirmed that the software is able to perform local data logging. This means that the system can collect sensor data and save it on an SD card without using real-time communication. This supports the final product concept, where the smartlogger stores environmental data locally until it is retrieved during scheduled maintenance. The test confirmed that the software is able to perform local data logging. This means that the system can collect sensor data and save it on an SD card without using real-time communication. This supports the final product concept, where the smartlogger stores environmental data locally until it is retrieved during scheduled maintenance.
  
-Figure {{ref>fig:StoredData}} Shows how the data stored on the SD-card is presented in Excel.+Figure {{ref>fig:StoredData}} shows how the data stored on the SD card is presented in Excel.
  
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 ==== 7.7 Summary ==== ==== 7.7 Summary ====
-//Provide here the conclusions of this chapter and make the bridge to the next chapter.//+ 
 +This chapter described the development of Maris Habitats from concept planning to prototype testing. The main focus of the development was to create a smart monitoring system that can read environmental data from a smartlogger and store the measurements locally. The physical reef structure was included as the supporting structure for the smartlogger, but the main technical purpose of the prototype was to validate the data collection and logging process. 
 + 
 +The chapter presented the smart system, including the hardware, electronics, software and packaging. The smartlogger was designed as a separate unit containing the sensors, microcontroller, battery and SD card. This solution allows data collection and maintenance without removing the whole reef structure from the seabed. The software was developed to read sensor values and store the collected data locally on an SD card, making the system suitable for basic environmental monitoring without requiring continuous underwater communication. 
 + 
 +The prototype was built as a simplified validation model rather than a final marine-grade product. It was used to test the basic structure, electronic integration, sensor readings and data logging process under controlled conditions. The prototype helped confirm that the main technical logic of the system works, while also showing which parts would need further development before real underwater deployment. 
 + 
 +Chapter 7 shows how Maris Habitats was transformed from a theoretical concept into a physical and functional prototype. The development process confirmed the feasibility of combining a modular reef structure with a removable monitoring system. Further development should focus on marine-grade materials, waterproofing, long-term durability, sensor accuracy and real environmental testing.