Yes you can definitely do it that way too, that's called deep water culture(DWC). But in my opinion the ebb and flow system will deliver more oxygen to the roots than a deep water culture system would, And hence more desirable. Not to mention that you need to closely watch the reservoir temperature in a deep water culture system.
The only reason I suggests the aeroponic approach is that you can literally use only 3 gallons of water, pretty much the amount of water that is needed to get your pump to pump it. And also it is hands down the most effective way to grow plants . Of course there is alot of controversy on this but it has been proven that you get larger and faster growth in aeroponics than any other growth medium. We're not speaking of flavor and taste just something to keep in mind. It's all about oxygen delivery to the roots. And that's what aeroponics does. And Ebb n flow also does a good job on oxygen delivery to the roots that's why It fills and drains, to allow oxygen to get to the roots.
Do you have any photos of your current system? I took the liberty of creating a 3d model of what I'm seeing that you're talking about that you're currently running.
Wow didn't even noticed that the video kind of transitioned from one view to the next quite quickly, Ops
Is this the kind of system you have now, or planning to do?
Sorry if it seems like I'm going overboard but I love designing systems Creating models, visualizing things and solving problems.
That sentence sounded like it almost rhymed.
Side Note:
In a way you're doing exactly what I'm trying to do. I went with a bucket system because each bucket has its own reservoir underneath it . It's perfect for controlling each stage of the plant's life . And simplicity is the best way to go. Another added benefit if something goes wrong with the reservoir it doesn't affect the entire system.
Sorry about the large post. I just love everything and anything marijuana and growing
Keep Smoken-n-Token