Automated aquarium control system for microalgae research at UCA
Company
The University of Cádiz (UCA) operated an aquarium dedicated to the research of specialized microalgae.
To advance their studies, they required a system capable of precisely controlling lighting conditions and the physicochemical parameters of the water — essential factors for analyzing the behavior and reproduction of different species.
Challenge
To design a solution that would enable real-time monitoring and control of the aquarium, managing critical sensors and automating lighting cycles to create different experimental environments.
The goal was to provide researchers with a flexible, precise, and fully programmable tool to study microalgae under controlled conditions.
Problem
- Inefficient manual control: Monitoring pH, turbidity, and other parameters was performed manually, making experimental consistency difficult.
- No automated lighting cycles: There was no system capable of simulating programmed day and night cycles.
- Lack of integration between sensors and actuators: Equipment operated independently, preventing centralized control.
- Research limitations: The absence of a stable and repeatable environment complicated the study of microalgae behavior.
Solution
How we do it?
We installed a PLC responsible for reading all essential sensors — pH, turbidity, and other environmental parameters — and controlling an LED panel designed to simulate customizable lighting conditions.
- Custom SCADA system: We designed a SCADA system connected to the PLC, allowing researchers to monitor real-time data and directly control the LED panel.
- Cycle programming: Programmable profiles were implemented with specific schedules, intensities, and durations, enabling simulation of long days, short nights, or any experimental condition.
- Fully automated environment: The solution centralizes parameter management and lighting control, ensuring stability and repeatability in scientific trials.
Results
- Fully automated control of the aquarium environment
- Greater experimental precision through integrated sensors and continuous monitoring
- Fully programmable lighting cycles to study microalgae response and reproduction
- A robust and flexible system that strengthens scientific research at UCA