Summary

I made this originally for the calibration of my THC-S Soil Sensor. When calibrating with the first version i noticed that after taking the sensor out and putting it back in, it was difficult to get reliable and good readings, because there was not way to compact the soil again. v2 has a slot that fits the sensor nicely and if needed there is a tool to gently pack the soil/coco before putting the sensor back in. i also made the walls 1.4mm thick, instead of 3mm.

I wanted to avoid designing in a way that supports are needed, but i think this is the better way to do it. I printed with tree support for only critical regions (tree on the socket only) and it printed nicely. Seems like my printer would also print fine without supports.

i haven't used the new version to calibrate, once i did I will add some info here on how it went.

I also made some holes at the top for LST, so now this container could be used for growing. The PLA+ saucers i printed survived a whole grow with salts running over them several times a day, so i think the containers will be fine in PLA+ as well. PETG would be the better choice though.

My print time was 7h30m

Base

The base that i uploaded is for the first iteration. I still have to adjust it to make it fit nicely with the v2 cube.

The base is an adaptation of my self draining saucer.

Hose adapter OD: 13.1mm (~1/2in)

Needs supports for the hose adapter

Container

This container was primarily made for the calibration of the THC-S moisture sensor, particularly for people working with coco coir or similar substrates. My goal was to design a container that ensures an effective and repeatable calibration process, while also catering to basic plant growth needs.

Design Features:

Volume: The container holds exactly one gallon, a choice that standardizes the amount of substrate used during calibration, making it easier to calculate the Volumetric Water Content (VWC).

Air Pruning Holes: There are 5mm holes on the sides of the container, added to allow air to circulate through the coco coir, facilitating even drying when used for calibration and providing air pruning benefits to roots if used for growing plants.

Drainage Holes: The bottom hosts a series of 3mm holes designed for efficient drainage, helping to prevent waterlogging by letting excess water easily escape.

Sensor Slot: A slot is provided to insert moisture sensors consistently in the same location and orientation, aiming to reduce variables in sensor readings during the calibration process.

Purpose:

The primary goal of this container is to offer a reliable method for calibrating moisture sensors, with a clear standard in terms of substrate volume and sensor placement. The additional features, such as air pruning and adequate drainage, are basic considerations to facilitate its secondary use as a planting container, if desired.

This container is intended for those looking to ensure accurate moisture readings in their hydroponic systems or soilless growing environments by providing a standardized tool for sensor calibration.

If you find this useful or have ideas to improve it, let me know:)

Print Settings

Rafts:

No

Supports:

Tree in critical regions only