Hydroponics - water level indicator for gutter system

I was inspired to make this 3d model by this video by Dr. Kratky.

Designed to be used in a 3" deep gutter/downspout system.

*this is just a little test section for a larger row, it was a coincidence I printed an endcap in translucent petg to illustrate this perfectly.

Non-Printed Parts

• extruded Polystyrene foam (pink or blue insulation board)

Printed Parts

• Grommet
  • Choose based on hole size in the downspout/gutter system
    • common netcup holes (1-½", 2", 3")
    • unique size because I bought the wrong hole saw (1-7/8")
  • Print settings
    • Material: recommend PETG for UV resistance
• Gauge Body
  • Print settings
    • Material: recommend PETG for UV resistance
    • Supports: add brim for print stability
• Indicator
  • Print settings
    • IMPORTANT: Print in Spiral/Vase Mode to reduce weight
    • Material: recommend bright/translucent filament for visibility
    • Supports: add brim for print stability

Assembly

1. Cut Foam - Cut a circular piece of foam that will fit through the hole in the downspout/gutter.  Cut thickness to ~½".  I used a serrated bread knife which worked well.
   1. TIP: I used the same hole saw I used to cut the downspout/gutter to cut the foam.
2. Assemble Indicator - Carefully press/twist the open side of the Indicator into the foam until it is roughly half way through the foam, just enough that it won't fall out.
3. Install Indicator - drop the Indicator in the hole
4. Install the Grommet - press the Grommet into the hole.  Should be a friction fit, just enough to not fall over.
5. Install the Gauge Body - thread the Gauge Body onto the grommet
6. Calibrate - depending on exact system and foam thickness, you may need to adjust the depth of the Indicator in the foam to show the empty state.  You can also scale or cut it to length for accurate measurements.
   1. TIP: add a mark to the Gauge Body for the exact Empty level of your setup w/ a sharpie

Need an endcap for your gutter system?