Save your family from over 200 Christmas tree fires every year. Let your tree text or email when it's thirsty.
Full instructions provided811
Things used in this project
Hardware components
Spark Core Maker Kit
Breadboard, Red LED, Tilt sensor, Wires, USB cord, Capacitor, Resistor. I cut a resistor's leads off and wrapped them around the tilt sensor so I didn't have to bend the sensor's contacts to attach it to the breadboard (tip from community).
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USB power adapter
To plug Spark core into wall or daisy chain on tree lights. I used an old iOS charger plug.
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Scrap wood for base
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Hinge
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About 12 inches of wire
To connect hinge to float. I used a shirt hanger.
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Float
I used styrofoam from an old cooler.
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Story
Why?
Last year my tree stand reservoir went dry one day. The tree trunk quickly sealed itself and wouldn't drink another drop of water. I didn't have the patience to take the tree down, saw an inch off the trunk and redecorate. This year we have a new baby I don't want the house to burn down. Tree watering notification products are available but aren't fun and don't send text messages.
Emailing {phone number}@vtext.com sends Verizon customers a text message.
Exploding Tree Video
Watch this video to see how a dry tree (left side) erupts. The watered tree almost extinguishes its flame.
The breadboard is attached to a hinge. An adjustable arm connects to a float. When the water level drops, the tilt sensor causes an LED to blink and sends a request to notify the owner.
1 / 6 • Breadboard
Bill of Materials
Warning: embedding parts within the project story has been deprecated. To edit, remove or add more parts, go to the "Hardware" tab. To remove this list from the story, click on it to trigger the context menu, then click the trash can button (this won't delete it from the "Hardware" tab).
Spark Core Maker Kit
Breadboard, Red LED, Tilt sensor, Wires, USB cord, Capacitor, Resistor. I cut a resistor's leads off and wrapped them around the tilt sensor so I didn't have to bend the sensor's contacts to attach it to the breadboard (tip from community).
USB power adapter
To plug Spark core into wall or daisy chain on tree lights. I used an old iOS charger plug.
Scrap wood for base
Hinge
About 12 inches of wire
To connect hinge to float. I used a shirt hanger.
Float
I used styrofoam from an old cooler.
In addition you need:
Pushingbox.com free account for email notification via wifi (requires Google account)
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