Project Title 2023-24

DAYANANDA SAGAR ACADEMY OF TECHNOLOGY AND

MANAGEMENT
Accredited by NAAC with Grade A+
Autonomous under VTU, Belagavi

Engineering Exploration Course [23EEXC28]

Project Report
on

“Smart Irrigation System with Plant Disease Detection”

“Industry Innovation & Infrastrucure”
Submitted by

Prajwal J [1DT23CG033]
Varshith Shekar [1DT23CD059]
S G Virupaksha Gowda [1DT23CS184]
Prajit Kotal [1DT23CG032]

In partial fulfilment of the requirement for the degree of

BACHELOR OF ENGINEERING

Under the Guidance of

Dr Sridhara S, Assistant Professor , Dept of Civil, DSATM, Bengaluru
Dr Rashmi Soni, Associate Professor, Dept of ISE, DSATM, Bengaluru
Prof Rashmi Pattan, Assistant Professor, Dept of Electrical, DSATM, Bengaluru

DAYANANDA SAGAR ACADEMY OF TECHNOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT

Accredited by NAAC with Grade A+
Udayapura, Kanakapura Road, Bengaluru-560082
Academic Year 2023-2024
Project Title 2023-24
DAYANANDA SAGAR ACADEMY OF TECHNOLOGY AND
MANAGEMENT
Accredited by NAAC with Grade A+
Udayapura, Kanakapura Road, Bengaluru-560082

This is to certify that the Engineering Exploration Course project work entitled “SMART
IRRIGATION SYSTEM” under the “SDG GOAL 9: INDUSTRY, INNOVATION, AND
INFRASTRUCTURE” was carried out by Prajwal J[1DT23CG033], Varshith Shekar
[1DT23CD059], S G Virupaksha [1DT23CS184], and Prajit Kotal [1DT23CG032], bonafide
students of DAYANANDA SAGAR ACADEMY OF TECHNOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT, in
Bachelor of Engineering of Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belagavi, during the academic
year 2023-2024. It is certified that all the corrections/suggestions indicated for internal assessment
have been incorporated in the report. The project report has been approved as it satisfies the academic
requirement in respect of the Engineering Exploration Course prescribed for the degree.

Signature of Guide Signature of Coordinators Signature of the Principal

Dr. Ravishankar M

External Viva Name of the Examiner Signature with Date

1.

2.
Project Title 2023-24
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We are deeply grateful for the support and guidance received that has made this project possible.

First and foremost, I would like to express my sincere thanks to the Management of Dayananda
Sagar Academy of Technology and Management, Bengaluru for providing the necessary
resources and a conducive environment to complete this project.

My heartfelt gratitude goes to our Principal, Dr. Ravishankar M, for his constant encouragement
and for fostering a culture of academic excellence.

I am immensely thankful to my Project Guide Dr Sridhara S, Assistant Professor , Dept of

Civil,DSATM,Bengaluru Dr Rashmi Soni, Associate Professor, Dept of ISE, DSATM,
BengaluruProf Rashmi Pattan, Assistant Professor, Dept of Electrical, DSATM, Bengaluru
for her/his invaluable insights, constructive feedback, and unwavering support throughout the
duration of this project. Her expertise and dedication has been instrumental in shaping the direction
and outcome of this project work.

I would also like to extend my appreciation to our Coordinators, Dr. Rashmi Soni and Prof.
Rashmi Pattan for their efficient guidelines and framework, which ensured that the project
progressed smoothly and met all deadlines.

A special thank you to the all of the faculty members for their guidance, encouragement, and for
imparting the knowledge and skills necessary to undertake this project.

Lastly, we would like to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of my team members: This
project would not have been possible without their collaboration, creativity, and commitment.

Thank you all for your support and encouragement.

Sincerely,

Prajwal J [1DT23CG033]
Varshith Shekar [1DT23CD059]
Prajit Kotal [1DT23CG032]
S G Virupaksha Gowda [1DTT23CS184]
Project Title 2023-24

ABSTRACT

This project leverages the capabilities of Internet of Things (IoT) and machine learning (ML)
to develop an intelligent agricultural system aimed at enhancing farming efficiency and
productivity. Using a NodeMCU ESP8266 microcontroller, various sensors such as soil
moisture, PIR motion, and temperature/humidity sensors were integrated to monitor and
automate agricultural processes. The system features a plant disease detection module, which
utilizes a camera module and a pre-trained convolutional neural network (CNN) to identify
diseases in plants from captured images.

A key aspect of the project involved field visits and direct interactions with local farmers to
understand their specific needs and challenges. These insights were crucial in tailoring the
system to provide practical solutions such as automated irrigation control and real-time
disease detection alerts. The project also employed Blynk, a no-code IoT platform, to facilitate
remote monitoring and control of the system via a user-friendly mobile application.

Through rigorous design thinking and engineering exploration methodologies, the project not
only demonstrated the practical application of IoT and ML in agriculture but also highlighted
the importance of user-centered design in technology development. The results indicate a
significant potential for such systems to improve agricultural practices, leading to better
resource management and increased crop yields.
Project Title 2023-24

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter No. Contents Page No

1 Introduction
1.1 Organization of the Report
2 Design thinking approach
2.1 Introduction
2.2 Sustainable Development Goals
2.3 Customer Research
2.4 Empathy Map
2.5 Customer Journey Map
2.6 Need Statement to Problem definition
2.7 Existing System
2.8 Objectives
2.9 Project Management
2.9.1 Identifying Milestones
2.9.2 Project Execution Plan
3 Methodology and Implementation
3.1 Hardware requirement
3.2 Software requirement
3.3 Flow diagram/block diagram/Algorithm
3.4 Hardware implementation
3.5 Software implementation
4 Result and discussion
5 Conclusion and Future Scope
6 Our journey experience and take away
References
Appendix 1 – datasheet of Sensors (if applicable)
Appendix 2 – dataset details (if applicable))
 2023-2024

CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
1. INTRODUCTION

The integration of Internet of Things (IoT) technology into agriculture has significantly

transformed traditional farming practices, making them more efficient, sustainable, and
data-driven. This project focuses on developing an IoT-based smart garden monitoring and
control system. The system utilizes a variety of sensors and actuators to monitor key
environmental parameters such as soil moisture levels and detect motion within the garden
area. Additionally, it provides remote control capabilities for watering plants using a water
pump, all managed through a no-code platform called Blynk.

The primary objective of this project is to automate garden maintenance tasks, thereby
reducing manual labor and ensuring optimal growing conditions for plants. By providing
real-time data and remote control options, the system allows users to make informed decisions
about garden management, ultimately leading to healthier plants and more efficient water
usage.
 2023-2024

1.1 ORGANIZATION OF THE REPORT

This report is organized to provide a thorough understanding of the project, its components,
and its functionality. The structure of the report is as follows:

● Introduction: This section introduces the project, outlines its objectives, and describes the
overall structure of the report.

● Components and Materials: This section lists and describes the hardware and software
components used in the project, including the NodeMCU ESP8266, soil moisture sensor,
PIR motion sensor, relay module, and other essential parts.

● System Design and Implementation: This section provides a detailed description of the
system design, including circuit diagrams, the logic behind the code, and step-by-step
implementation processes.

● Results and Discussion: This section presents the data collected from the sensors, the
performance of the system, and any issues encountered during the implementation. It also
discusses the effectiveness of the system in achieving its objectives and any observed
benefits.

● Conclusion and Future Work: This section summarizes the project's outcomes, highlights
the key findings, and suggests potential improvements and future developments to enhance
the system's capabilities.
 2023-2024

Each section of this report aims to give a comprehensive insight into the development and
functionality of the smart garden monitoring and control system.

Through detailed explanations and analyses, the report intends to provide valuable information
that can be useful for similar projects and further research in the field of IoT-based agriculture.
 2023-2024

CHAPTER 2
DESIGN THINKING APPROACH

2.1 INTRODUCTION

Design thinking is a problem-solving approach that focuses on understanding the user,

challenging assumptions, and redefining problems to identify alternative strategies and
solutions. It involves five key stages: Empathize, Define, Ideate, Prototype, and Test.
This method is particularly effective in tackling complex problems that are ill-defined
or unknown, as it provides a structured yet flexible approach to innovation.

In the context of our IoT-based smart garden monitoring and control system, design
thinking has played a crucial role in ensuring that the solution is user-centered and
addresses real-world challenges. By empathizing with gardeners and small-scale
farmers, we were able to gain a deep understanding of their needs and pain points. This
understanding guided the definition of the problem, the ideation of potential solutions,
and the development of prototypes.

The iterative nature of design thinking allowed us to refine our prototypes based on user
feedback, ensuring that the final product is both functional and user-friendly. This
process not only enhanced the usability of the system but also ensured that it delivers
tangible benefits to the users. Through continuous testing and iteration, we were able to
address potential issues early on and create a robust solution that meets the needs of our
target audience.

Overall, the design thinking approach has been instrumental in the successful
development of our smart garden system. It provided a clear framework for innovation,
facilitated collaboration among team members, and ensured that the final product aligns
with the needs and expectations of the users.
 2023-2024

2.2 Sustainable Development Goals

The United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a universal

framework for achieving a better and more sustainable future for all. Our project aligns
with several of these goals, particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 6 (Clean Water and
Sanitation), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). By leveraging IoT technology, our smart
garden system aims to promote sustainable agricultural practices and optimize resource
management.

SDG 2 aims to end hunger, achieve food security, improve nutrition, and promote
sustainable agriculture. Our smart garden system contributes to this goal by enhancing
the efficiency of garden maintenance and ensuring optimal conditions for plant growth.
By monitoring soil moisture levels and automating the watering process, the system
helps to prevent over-watering and under-watering, leading to healthier plants and
higher yields.

SDG 6 focuses on ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and

sanitation for all. Water scarcity is a significant challenge in many parts of the world,
and efficient water use is critical for sustainable agriculture. Our system addresses this
challenge by providing real-time data on soil moisture levels and enabling precise
control of the water pump. This helps to conserve water resources and reduce wastage,
promoting sustainable water management practices.

SDG 13 calls for urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts. Agriculture is
both a contributor to and a victim of climate change, and sustainable farming practices
are essential for mitigating its effects. By optimizing water use and reducing resource
waste, our smart garden system contributes to more sustainable agricultural practices.
Additionally, the system's ability to provide real-time data and remote control
capabilities enables users to respond quickly to changing environmental conditions,
enhancing the resilience of their gardens to climate-related challenges.
 2023-2024

2.3 Customer Research

Customer research is a fundamental step in the design thinking process, as it provides

insights into the needs, behaviors, and pain points of the target users. For our project,
we conducted comprehensive customer research, including surveys, interviews, and
direct observations. This allowed us to gather qualitative and quantitative data that
informed the design and development of our smart garden system.

The surveys were distributed to a diverse group of gardeners and small-scale farmers to
understand their current practices and challenges. The responses highlighted common
issues such as inconsistent watering schedules, lack of real-time environmental data,
and the time-consuming nature of garden maintenance. These

insights were critical in identifying the key features that the system needed to address.

Interviews with selected participants provided deeper insights into their daily routines
and specific pain points. For instance, many users expressed frustration with the
unpredictability of weather conditions, which often resulted in either over-watering or
under-watering their plants. They also highlighted the need for a user-friendly interface
that would allow them to monitor and control their garden remotely. These detailed
interviews helped us to empathize with our users and prioritize their needs in the design
process.

Direct observations of users' interactions with their gardens further enriched our
understanding of their challenges. By witnessing their routines and the obstacles they
faced, we were able to identify opportunities for automation and improvement. This
holistic approach to customer research ensured that our smart garden system was
designed with a deep understanding of the users' needs and challenges, ultimately
leading to a more effective and user-centric solution.
 2023-2024

2.4 Empathy Map

An empathy map is a powerful tool used to visualize what users say, think, do, and feel,
providing a holistic view of their experiences. For our project, we created empathy
maps based on the insights gathered from our customer research. This helped us to
better

understand the emotions and behaviors of gardeners and small-scale farmers, guiding
the design of our smart garden system.

The empathy map revealed that users often feel overwhelmed by the unpredictability of
garden maintenance tasks. They frequently expressed frustration with inconsistent
watering schedules and the labor-intensive nature of manually checking soil moisture
levels. These emotions underscored the need for an automated system that could
alleviate these burdens and provide consistent care for their plants.

By mapping out what users think, we discovered that many gardeners worry about the
health of their plants, especially when they are away from home. They think about the
best ways to ensure their plants receive adequate water and nutrients, and they often
seek solutions that can provide real-time monitoring and control. This insight
highlighted the importance of integrating remote access and real-time data visualization
into our system.

Observing what users do provided further valuable insights. Many gardeners spend a
significant amount of time manually checking soil moisture and adjusting their watering
schedules. This repetitive and time-consuming task can be efficiently managed by an
automated system. By understanding these behaviors, we were able to design features
that simplify and automate these processes, saving users time and effort.

Overall, the empathy map helped us to empathize with our users on a deeper level,
ensuring that our smart garden system addresses

their emotional and practical needs. By considering what users say, think, do, and feel,
we were able to create a solution that not only functions well but also resonates with the
users, providing a more satisfying and effective experience.
 2023-2024

2.5 Customer Journey Map

A customer journey map outlines the steps users take when interacting with a product or
service, highlighting key touchpoints and potential pain points. For our smart garden
system, we created a detailed customer journey map to visualize the entire user
experience, from the initial setup to daily interactions and maintenance. This helped us
to identify areas for improvement and ensure a seamless user experience.

The journey begins with the initial setup, where users install the hardware components,
such as the NodeMCU ESP8266, soil moisture sensor, and water pump. During this
phase, users often face challenges related to technical installation and configuration. To
address this, we focused on simplifying the setup process by providing clear instructions
and ensuring that the system components are easy to assemble and configure.

Once the system is set up, users interact with it daily to monitor soil moisture levels,
receive alerts, and control the water pump. The customer journey map highlighted
several critical touchpoints, such as the user interface and the responsiveness of the
sensors and actuators. Users need an intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface to view
real-time data and manage the system effectively. We prioritized the design of a
user-friendly interface in the Blynk app, ensuring that users can easily access the
information they need and control the system with minimal effort.

Another key touchpoint is the alert system, which notifies users of critical changes in
soil moisture levels or the detection of motion. The customer journey map revealed that
timely and accurate alerts are crucial for users to take appropriate actions. We focused
on optimizing the alert system to ensure that notifications are reliable and provide
actionable information, helping users to maintain optimal garden conditions.

By mapping out the entire customer journey, we were able to identify potential pain
points and opportunities for improvement at each stage.
 2023-2024
2.6 Need Statement to Problem Definition

Converting user needs into a clear problem definition is a crucial step in the design
thinking process. Based on our customer research and empathy mapping, we identified
several key needs that our smart garden system needed to address. These included the
need for consistent and efficient watering, real-time monitoring of soil moisture levels,
and the ability to control the system remotely. By synthesizing these needs, we were
able to define a clear problem statement that guided the development of our solution.

The primary need statement can be summarized as follows: "Gardeners and small-scale
farmers need a reliable, automated system to monitor soil moisture levels and control
watering to ensure optimal plant health and efficient resource use, without the need for
constant manual intervention." This statement encapsulates the core challenge that our
target users face and sets the stage for developing a solution that addresses this need.

To further refine the problem definition, we conducted a detailed analysis of the specific
pain points and challenges associated with

garden maintenance. This analysis revealed that users often struggle with inconsistent
watering schedules, lack of real-time data, and the time-consuming nature of manual
monitoring and maintenance. By clearly defining these issues, we were able to focus our
efforts on creating a solution that directly addresses these challenges.

The problem definition also highlighted the importance of integrating technology in a

way that is accessible and user-friendly. Many existing solutions in the market are either
too complex or too expensive for small-scale gardeners and farmers. Our goal was to
develop an affordable, easy-to-use system that leverages IoT technology to provide
real-time monitoring and remote control capabilities. This focuson accessibility and
usability guided our design decisions and ensured that the final product meets the needs
of a broad range of users.
 2023-2024
Overall, the process of converting user needs into a clear problem definition provided a
strong foundation for the development of our smart garden system. It ensured that our
solution is both relevant and effective, addressing the core challenges faced by
gardeners and small-scale farmers and providing a user-centric approach to garden
maintenance.

2.7 Existing System

Before embarking on the development of our IoT-based smart garden system, it was
essential to analyze the existing systems available in the market.

This analysis provided valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of current
solutions and helped us toidentify opportunities for innovation and improvement.
Several automated garden systems are available, ranging from simple timers for
watering to more sophisticated systems with sensors and mobile app integration.

One common limitation of existing systems is their high cost and complexity. Many
advanced garden monitoring systems are prohibitively expensive for small-scale
gardeners and farmers, making them inaccessible to a large segment of potential users.

Additionally, these systems often require significant technical expertise to install and
configure, posing a barrier to adoption for users who may not have a technical
background. Our goal was to develop an affordable and easy-to-install system that
provides similar functionality without the associated complexity and cost.

Another issue with existing systems is the lack of real-time data feedback and remote
control capabilities. While some systems offer basic automation, they do not provide
users with the ability to monitor and manage their garden remotely.
 2023-2024
This is a significant drawback for users who need to ensure the health of their plants
while they are away from home.

Our smart garden system addresses this gap by integrating real-time data monitoring
and remote control through the Blynk app, allowing users to stay connected to their
garden at all times.

Additionally, many existing solutions do not offer comprehensive monitoring of

environmental conditions. For instance, they may focus solely on soil moisture levels
without considering other factors such as temperature and humidity, which also play a
crucial role in plant health.

Our system incorporates multiple sensors to provide a holistic view of the garden
environment, enabling users to make more informed decisions about garden
management.

By analyzing the existing systems, we were able to identify key areas for improvement
and innovation.

This analysis informed the design and development of our smart garden system,
ensuring that it addresses the limitations of current solutions and provides a more
comprehensive, user-friendly, and accessible option for gardeners and small-scale
farmers.
 CHAPTER 3
METHODOLOGY AND IMPLEMENTATION

3.1 Hardware Requirements

The hardware setup for this IoT project comprises crucial components that enable both sensing
and actuation capabilities to ensure efficient plant care management:

- NodeMCU ESP8266: This microcontroller is selected for its compatibility with Arduino
IDE and its built-in Wi-Fi capabilities, allowing seamless integration into the IoT ecosystem.
It serves as the central hub for data processing and communication with the Blynk cloud
platform.

- Soil Moisture Sensor (A0): This sensor measures the moisture content in the soil
surrounding the plants. It provides critical data to determine when irrigation is needed, helping
maintain optimal soil moisture levels for plant growth.

- PIR Motion Sensor (D5): Positioned near the plants, this sensor detects motion in its
vicinity. It not only enhances security by alerting users of any unauthorized movements but
also conserves energy by activating monitoring only when necessary.

- Relay Module (D3): This component controls the water pump's operation based on signals
from the NodeMCU. It automates the watering process, ensuring plants receive water
promptly when soil moisture levels are low.

- 18650 Battery: This portable power source ensures uninterrupted operation of the
NodeMCU, allowing flexibility in placement without relying solely on mains electricity.

- Tactile Push Button (D7): It provides manual control over the water pump, serving as a
fail-safe mechanism to override automated watering routines or troubleshoot system
operations.

- LiquidCrystal I2C Display: This 16x2 character LCD display offers local visual feedback on
sensor readings and system statuses, providing convenient on-site monitoring and diagnostics.
- Jumper Wires and Breadboard: These components facilitate the prototyping and connection
of various sensors and actuators, ensuring a neat and organized hardware setup that is
conducive to troubleshooting and maintenance.

3.2 Software Requirements:

The software stack for this project encompasses essential tools and libraries necessary for
programming and integrating the NodeMCU ESP8266 with the Blynk IoT platform:

- Arduino IDE: This development environment is used for writing, compiling, and uploading
code to the NodeMCU, leveraging its compatibility with the ESP8266 microcontroller.

- ESP8266WiFi Library: This library enables the NodeMCU to connect to a Wi-Fi network,
establishing the crucial link for communication with the Blynk cloud server and allowing
remote access and control.

- Blynk Library: Central to the project, the Blynk library facilitates seamless integration with
the Blynk app, enabling real-time monitoring of sensor data (temperature, humidity, soil
moisture) and control of actuators (water pump).

- LiquidCrystal I2C Library: This library facilitates communication with the LCD display
using the I2C protocol, enabling the NodeMCU to display sensor readings and system statuses
locally.

- DHT Library: Specifically, the DHT library is employed to interface with the DHT11
temperature and humidity sensor, providing accurate environmental data critical for plant
health monitoring.
3.3 Flow diagram/block diagram/Algorithm

3.4 Hardware Implementation

The hardware implementation involves the physical assembly and interconnection of

components to create a functional IoT ecosystem:

- NodeMCU Setup: Positioned at the core of the setup, the NodeMCU ESP8266 is powered
by the 18650 battery and connected to the designated Wi-Fi network. It serves as the primary
controller, orchestrating data flow between sensors, actuators, and the Blynk cloud platform.

- Sensor Integration: Sensors such as the soil moisture sensor (A0), PIR motion sensor (D5),
and DHT11 temperature sensor (D4) are strategically placed to gather essential environmental
data. These sensors interface with the NodeMCU, providing critical inputs for automated plant
care routines.
- Actuator Control: The relay module (D3) governs the operation of the water pump, ensuring
timely and precise irrigation based on soil

moisture readings. It receives control signals from the NodeMCU to activate or deactivate the
water pump as per predefined conditions.

- User Interface: The tactile push button (D7) offers manual override capabilities, allowing
users to intervene in the automated watering process if necessary. This feature enhances user
control and system flexibility.

- Display Functionality: The LiquidCrystal I2C display is integrated with the NodeMCU to
provide real-time feedback on sensor readings (temperature, humidity, soil moisture) and
system states (water pump status). It enhances on-site monitoring and facilitates immediate
system diagnostics and troubleshooting.

3.5 Software Implementation

The software implementation is focused on programming the NodeMCU ESP8266 to enable

seamless operation and integration within the IoT framework:

- Initialization and Configuration: The setup function initializes serial communication for
debugging purposes and configures the LCD display. It establishes Wi-Fi connectivity using
the ESP8266WiFi library and connects to the Blynk cloud server using authentication
credentials (auth token, Wi-Fi SSID, password).

- Sensor Data Acquisition: Functions such as `DHT11sensor()` and `soilMoistureSensor()` are

implemented to read temperature, humidity, and soil moisture data from the DHT11 sensor
and soil moisture sensor, respectively. These data are displayed locally on the LCD display
and transmitted to the Blynk app (`V0` for temperature, `V1` for humidity, `V3` for soil
moisture) for remote monitoring.
- Motion Detection and Control Logic: The `PIRsensor()` function detects motion using the
PIR motion sensor and triggers corresponding events on the Blynk app (`V5` for motion
detection indication). The `checkPhysicalButton()` function enables manual control of the
water pump via the tactile push button (`D7`), ensuring user intervention capability.

- Integration with Blynk: Blynk-specific functions (`BLYNK_WRITE()` and

`BLYNK_CONNECTED()`) handle data synchronization and event handling between the
NodeMCU and the Blynk cloud server. These functions enable real-time updates and remote
control of the IoT system through the Blynk app.

- Timed Operations: The `BlynkTimer` is utilized to schedule periodic execution of sensor

reading functions (`soilMoistureSensor()` and `DHT11sensor()`) and button state checks
(`checkPhysicalButton()`), ensuring timely updates and responsiveness in system operations.

This comprehensive hardware and software integration forms a robust IoT solution for
automated plant watering with motion detection, offering enhanced plant care management
capabilities through smart technology integration and user-friendly controls.
 CHAPTER 4

RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

4.1 System Functionality and Performance

The IoT-based automated plant watering system demonstrated robust functionality during
testing. The NodeMCU ESP8266 microcontroller successfully managed the integration and
operation of various sensors and actuators.

The soil moisture sensor provided accurate readings, enabling the system to determine the
precise moments to activate the water pump.

This automated response helped maintain optimal soil moisture levels, demonstrating the
system's effectiveness in ensuring plant health without manual intervention.

Temperature and humidity data from the DHT11 sensor were consistently accurate, providing
crucial environmental insights. These readings were displayed on the LCD screen and
transmitted to the Blynk app, allowing users to monitor real-time conditions both locally and
remotely.

The integration with Blynk facilitated seamless remote control and monitoring, highlighting
the system's capability for IoT-based plant care management.
4.2 Reliability and Responsiveness

The system's reliability was further evidenced by the consistent performance of the PIR
motion sensor. The sensor effectively detected motion, triggering alerts and updating the status
on the Blynk app.

This feature added a layer of security and energy efficiency, as the system could be
programmed to operate or alert only when motion was detected. The relay module's
performance was also reliable, accurately controlling the water pump's activation and
deactivation based on sensor inputs and manual commands.

The tactile push button provided a reliable manual override mechanism. This feature ensured
that users could intervene and control the water pump directly, adding flexibility and a
fail-safe mechanism to the system. The system's responsiveness was evident in the quick
updates on the LCD display and the Blynk app, allowing users to react promptly to changes in
environmental conditions or system states.

4.3 User Interface and Experience

The user interface, comprising the LCD display and the Blynk app, significantly enhanced the
user experience. The LCD display provided immediate, on-site feedback on soil moisture,
temperature, and humidity levels, as well as the water pump's status.

This real-time information was crucial for users who needed to make quick decisions
regarding plant care.
The Blynk app extended this functionality by allowing remote access and control, making the
system accessible from anywhere with an internet connection.

The Blynk app's intuitive interface made it easy for users to monitor real-time data and control
the system remotely. Users could toggle the water pump, receive motion alerts, and view
sensor data effortlessly. This integration highlighted the importance of user-friendly design in
IoT applications, as it significantly improved the overall user experience and system
manageability.

4.4 Challenges and Limitations

Despite its successes, the system faced several challenges. One notable issue was the
dependency on a stable Wi-Fi connection. Any interruptions in connectivity could affect the
system's ability to update the Blynk app and respond to remote commands. Additionally, the
accuracy of the soil moisture sensor could be influenced by soil type and conditions,
necessitating calibration for different environments. These challenges highlighted the need for
robust network infrastructure and potential adjustments to sensor calibration.

Power management was another area of concern. While the 18650 battery provided portability,
its limited capacity required frequent recharging, which could disrupt the system's operation if
not managed properly. Implementing a more efficient power management solution or
integrating solar charging could mitigate this issue, ensuring continuous operation without
manual intervention.
4.5 Future Improvements

The project's outcomes suggest several avenues for future improvements. Enhancing the
system's power management by incorporating renewable energy sources such as solar panels
could significantly extend the system's operational time and reduce the need for frequent
battery recharges.

Additionally, improving the sensor's calibration process to account for different soil types and
conditions would enhance the system's accuracy and reliability across various environments.

Expanding the system's capabilities by integrating additional sensors, such as light or pH

sensors, could provide a more comprehensive environmental monitoring solution. This
expansion would enable more precise control over plant care, adapting to a wider range of
conditions and needs.

Furthermore, incorporating machine learning algorithms could enable predictive analytics,

optimizing water usage based on historical data and weather forecasts, making the system
smarter and more efficient over time.

In conclusion, the IoT-based automated plant watering system successfully demonstrated the
potential of smart technology in plant care management. While challenges remain, the
project's results underscore the benefits of integrating IoT with agriculture, paving the way for

more advanced and efficient solutions in the future.

 CHAPTER 5

CONCLUSION AND FUTURE SCOPE

5.1 Conclusion
The development and implementation of the IoT-based automated plant watering system
showcased the significant potential of integrating smart technology into agricultural practices.
The system efficiently managed soil moisture levels, temperature, and humidity, ensuring
optimal conditions for plant health with minimal human intervention. The use of NodeMCU
ESP8266, coupled with the Blynk platform, allowed for real-time monitoring and control,
enhancing user convenience and system responsiveness. The project demonstrated that IoT
can play a crucial role in automating and optimizing agricultural tasks, leading to more
efficient and sustainable practices.

Future Scope

The future scope of this project is vast, with numerous opportunities for enhancements and
expansions:

1. Integration with Renewable Energy: Incorporating solar panels to power the system
could significantly reduce dependency on battery recharging and enhance the sustainability
of the setup. This would ensure continuous operation even in remote areas without reliable
electricity supply.

2. Advanced Environmental Monitoring: Adding additional sensors, such as light, pH, and
nutrient sensors, could provide a more comprehensive understanding of plant health and
environmental conditions. This would enable more precise and tailored care strategies.
3. Machine Learning and Predictive Analytics: Implementing machine learning algorithms
could allow the system to predict optimal watering schedules based on historical data,
weather forecasts, and real-time environmental conditions. This would further optimize
water usage and improve plant health outcomes.

4. Scalability and Commercialization: Scaling the system for larger agricultural fields and
commercial use could have a significant impact on large-scale farming operations.
Developing a more robust and scalable version of the system could revolutionize the way
farmers manage their crops.
Title of Project 2023-2024

CHAPTER 6

OUR JOURNEY EXPERIENCE AND TAKEAWAY

Student 1: Prajwal J [1DT23CG033]

My journey through the IDT (Innovation and Design Thinking) and EEC (Engineering
Exploration Course) has been incredibly transformative. Initially, I had a basic understanding
of electronics and programming, but these courses pushed my knowledge to new heights. The
IDT course introduced me to the process of identifying real-world problems and innovating
solutions through a structured design-thinking approach. This involved meeting with local
farmers to understand their challenges and needs directly from the source.

One of my key contributions was programming and building a plant disease detection system
using machine learning. This project involved integrating a camera module with the
NodeMCU ESP8266 to capture images of plant leaves. I used a pre-trained convolutional
neural network (CNN) model to analyze the images and detect signs of disease.

The EEC course provided the necessary background in engineering principles and system
design, allowing me to efficiently handle the hardware integration. This project was a
significant learning experience, highlighting the potential of combining IoT with ML to solve
real-world problems. My major takeaway was the power of interdisciplinary knowledge and
the exciting possibilities it opens up.
Title of Project 2023-2024

Student 2: Varsihth Shekar [1DT23CD059]:

My experience with the IDT and EEC courses has been both
challenging and rewarding. I started with minimal knowledge about
IoT and embedded systems, but through these courses, I gained a
solid foundation.

The IDT course was eye-opening, as it showcased the endless possibilities of IoT applications.
During the course, we visited several farms and interacted with farmers to gain insights into
their daily operations and the issues they faced, such as unpredictable weather patterns and
inefficient water usage.

In the EEC course, I particularly enjoyed learning about microcontroller programming and
circuit design. The hands-on labs were the highlight for me, as they provided practical
experience and reinforced my understanding of complex concepts.

One major takeaway from these courses was the importance of debugging and
problem-solving skills. Many times, I encountered issues with my projects, but through
perseverance and critical thinking, I was able to resolve them. These experiences have
prepared me well for future challenges in the field of electronics and computing.
Title of Project 2023-2024

Student 3: S G Virupaksh Gowda [1DT23CS184]

IDT course introduced me to the exciting world of interconnected devices and innovative
problem-solving. Learning about different communication protocols and how to implement
them in IoT systems was particularly intriguing.

As part of our project, we met with farmers to understand their irrigation practices and identify
how IoT could improve water efficiency and crop health.

The EEC course complemented this knowledge by providing a deeper understanding of the
engineering principles and design processes involved. Building and programming circuits
from scratch was a steep learning curve, but it was incredibly satisfying to see my projects
come to life.

A significant takeaway from these courses was the importance of teamwork and collaboration.
Many projects required working in groups, which helped me develop my communication and
teamwork skills, essential for any professional environment.
Title of Project 2023-2024

Student 4: Prajit [1DT23CG032]:

The IDT and EEC courses have profoundly impacted my understanding of modern
technology. The IDT course opened my eyes to the practical applications of IoT in daily life
and the importance of user-centered design. We engaged with farmers, learning firsthand
about their struggles with soil moisture management and crop diseases. This direct interaction
was invaluable in shaping our project objectives and ensuring our solutions were tailored to
their needs.

The EEC course provided a strong foundation in engineering exploration, where I learned to
design and program microcontroller-based systems. This was a completely new experience for
me. One of the key takeaways was the importance of meticulous planning and testing in
hardware projects. Small errors could lead to significant issues, so attention to detail and
thorough testing became second nature to me. These skills will undoubtedly be beneficial in
my future career in engineering.

Overall, the IDT and EEC courses have been instrumental in shaping our understanding of IoT
and embedded systems. The knowledge and skills we gained through hands-on projects and
collaborative learning, combined with our field interactions with farmers, will undoubtedly
serve us well in our field.