CHAPTER 3

METHODOLOGY
RESEARCH DESIGN
This study will use the prototype design to execute the function of a counting mechanism
device in knowing the estimated biomass of the fishes and the temperature of the water within
the fish pen. The design can test the hypothesis concerning to its cause and effect relationship
between the proposed device and the user. It will be conducted to ensure how the design works
and to avert overstocking in a fish pen using the device. This gadget uses an active sonar
mechanism device to detect the fishes underwater and the NI Labview that would process the
gathered data.

SAMPLE DESIGN
This prototype needs a NI Labview program as a main feature for processing the gathered
data from the active radar mechanism and a temperature sensor of the device. This device uses a
database to register the number of fishes and temperature of the water every hour. This
prototype also needs a microcontroller to program all the sequences in counting the estimated
biomass of fishes in the fish pen and the temperature of the water.

DATA GATHERING AND PROCEDURES

A. Designing the device
The researchers will construct a block diagram and schematic diagram to make a
prototype of the counting device. The researchers will construct a code for the
sequences of the device.
B. Collection of the materials
The researchers will canvas some microcontroller, active sonar and temperature
sensor in some electronics stores available nearby. Also for the NI Labview
program they will look for an installer of it in some stores available. If theres a
missing materials or components within those stores, they will order those
components outside through shipping.
C. Prototyping Proper
The researchers will now assemble all the components according to the schematic
diagram. They will program all the codes using the programming software
appropriate to the microcontroller. The program will transfer to the
microcontroller unit and the device will read all the code for it to perform the
sequences that the researchers constructed. The applications of the prototype
device can be placed on a certain fish pen or manmade tank.
D. Testing of the Prototype
Parameters:
1. The Active solar equipment will submerge in the fishpen
2. Executes the NI labview to gather data from the active sonar equipment.
BLOCK DIAGRAM

Figure 1.1 Conceptual Framework for the study

Describes the process of the system

FLOW CHART DIAGRAM

FLOWCHART

Echosounder

Sound
Reflecte
d?

YES
Echo Integrator

Fish
Count

LIST OF MATERIALS
1. Active SONAR
2. ARDUINO / PIC Microcontroller
3. NI Labview program
4. PCB Board
5. Resistors

6. Capacitors
7. Connecting Wires