Phase 2: Build ESP32 prototype + smart controller

[mokahlo]

Goal

Build the breadboard prototype of the Wattplot smart controller per the design in this repo.

Scope

• ESP32-WROOM-32D dev board + breadboard
• Wire up: H-bridge, actuator, INA219, DS18B20, capacitive soil sensor, limit switches
• PI controller for motor current
• Decision stack: user override, hard current limit, NWS forecast, soil moisture, time-of-day
• Bench test: actuator moves, current reads correctly, fold triggers fire
• Simulated-wind test mode (verify with a box fan)
• First outdoor deployment, manual mode, 1 week
• Enable auto-fold, monitor for false triggers, 2-4 weeks
• Calibrate setpoint current and deadband from real data

Reference

• analysis/pcb_schematic.py — block diagram of the controller
• Concept doc (concept.md) — overall Wattplot design
• ROADMAP.md — Phase 2 details

Done when

Outdoor deployment survives 1 month of Phoenix weather, fold decisions match what an experienced gardener would do manually.