Documentation
Documentation Contents
About pi-OCEAN
Project Overview
pi-OCEAN (Raspberry Pi Osmosis Control Ecosystem for Analysis & Nexus) is an ambitious open-source, Raspberry Pi 5-based system revolutionizing marine watermaker management. It offers a comprehensive, affordable, and reliable solution for monitoring, controlling, and optimizing reverse osmosis watermakers on boats, forming an intelligent ecosystem ready for advanced AI integration.
Core Features
Comprehensive Sensor Integration
- Real-time monitoring of key water quality (TDS, Turbidity, Temp).
- Pressure (pre-filter, HP pump) and flow rates (sea, waste, product) across the system.
Intelligent Control & Automation
- Automated management of pumps and valves via a configurable "if-this-then-that" Rules Engine.
- Customizable alarms and safety shutdowns for system protection.
Advanced Data Management
- Robust data logging to InfluxDB for historical records and trend analysis.
- MQTT integration for external systems like Victron Cerbo GX.
Modern & Intuitive Web UI
- Responsive, web-based dashboard with customizable gauges and interactive system diagrams.
- Integrated calibration module for precise sensor adjustments.
Optional HYDRA AI Module
- Provides predictive maintenance, pattern recognition, performance optimization, and a conversational interface for advanced insights.
Project Goals
Affordable Accessibility
- Deliver a cost-effective, open-source alternative to proprietary watermaker controls.
Enhanced Performance
- Improve water quality monitoring, system efficiency, and energy use.
Proactive Problem Solving
- Provide early warnings for issues via intelligent analysis.
Reduced Maintenance Costs
- Lower expenses through predictive analytics and optimized scheduling.
Community Empowerment
- Foster a vibrant community for continuous system improvement.
Accessible Clean Water
- Enable reliable, efficient water production for cruisers and remote users.
Two-Tier Architecture
pi-OCEAN is designed with a modular two-tier architecture:
pi-OCEAN Core (Raspberry Pi 5)
The essential control system that handles all critical functions:
- Sensor data collection
- Hardware control
- Real-time monitoring
- Safety systems
- Basic UI and control interface
HYDRA Module (Optional)
An optional AI-powered extension (Orange Pi AIpro or 5 Ultra) that adds:
- Advanced analytics
- Voice interface
- Predictive maintenance
- Pattern recognition
- Historical data analysis
System Diagram
System Components
Core Control Unit
The Raspberry Pi 5 serves as the brain of the system, running the main control software, interfacing with sensors and actuators, and providing the web interface for user interaction.
Boost Pump
A low-pressure pump that draws seawater into the system and feeds it through the pre-filters.
Pre-Filters
These filters remove sediment and larger particles from the seawater, protecting the high-pressure pump and RO membrane.
High Pressure Pump
This pump generates the high pressure required for the reverse osmosis process, forcing water through the RO membrane.
RO Pressure Vessel
Houses the reverse osmosis membrane, where the actual desalination process occurs.
Waste Water Discharge
The concentrated brine (waste water) that is rejected by the RO membrane is discharged back into the ocean.
Water Tank
Stores the fresh, potable water produced by the watermaker.
Dock Water Connection
Allows the system to be flushed or supplied with fresh water from a shore connection.
Carbon Filter
An optional filter that removes chlorine and improves the taste of the product water, especially when using dock water.
Valves
Automated valves control the flow of water through different parts of the system, enabling various modes of operation (e.g., making water, flushing).
Sensors (Flow, Pressure, TDS, Temperature)
A suite of sensors monitors critical parameters throughout the watermaking process, providing data for real-time display, logging, and automated control.
Hardware
Detailed hardware documentation coming soon. Please check the Components page for a list of recommended hardware.
Software
Detailed software documentation coming soon. The project is currently in development.
API Reference
API documentation will be available once the core system is developed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is pi-OCEAN?
pi-OCEAN is an open-source watermaker control system built around the Raspberry Pi 5. It provides monitoring, control, and analysis capabilities for reverse osmosis watermakers in marine environments.
What watermaker systems is pi-OCEAN compatible with?
pi-OCEAN is designed to be adaptable to most AC or DC-powered watermaker systems. It can be configured to work with various pump types, membrane configurations, and control schemes. Specific compatibility guides will be provided as the project develops.
Do I need programming skills to use pi-OCEAN?
Basic installation and operation of pi-OCEAN will not require programming skills. However, customizing the system beyond the provided configurations may require some familiarity with Python and web technologies.
What is the HYDRA module?
HYDRA is an optional AI-powered extension for pi-OCEAN that adds advanced analytics, predictive maintenance, and voice control capabilities. It runs on an Orange Pi AIpro or 5 Ultra and communicates with the core pi-OCEAN system.
How much power does pi-OCEAN consume?
The core pi-OCEAN system (Raspberry Pi 5) typically consumes 5-10W depending on load. The optional HYDRA module may consume an additional 5-15W. This is minimal compared to the power requirements of the watermaker itself.
When will pi-OCEAN be available?
The project is currently in the planning and design phase. We aim to have a functional prototype by the end of Q2 2025, with a stable release by the end of 2025. Subscribe to our GitHub repository for updates.