Creek Level Node Construction

The team is progressing well with construction of the creek level node. Most hardware components including the solar panel, case, and mounting plate have been built.

The solar panel mount was constructed so that it can be tilted up to 45 degrees left or right. This design decision was made as the bridge it's intended to be mounted on (in The Channon) runs North-South - hence the panel can be tilted to face North.

The case is mounted to the main pole via some custom metal U brackets. The mounting plate is made from 10mm mild steel - not going anywhere. All wiring runs through the cable gland you can faintly see behind the metal pole in the above image.

The ultrasonic sensor above has a 7.5m range. We initially started construction with a 15m ultrasonic sensor, however after extensive troubleshooting it was found to be defective. Masters students working under our host have previously found the 7.5m sensor to be far more reliable than the 15m sensor anyhow. This model will still cover all of our intended use cases and provide valuable, accurate information to Northern Rivers Residents.