report
report
Introducing an innovative smart irrigation system designed to optimize water usage and promote
healthy plant growth. This system leverages sensors such as the soil moisture sensor to monitor
environmental conditions and efficiently manage the irrigation process. Powered by the ATmega8
microcontroller, it continuously gathers environmental data, converts it via an ADC, and processes
the information into actionable metrics for humidity.
Using customizable thresholds specific to individual plant needs, the system intelligently controls
the water pump, preventing overwatering or underwatering by activating irrigation only under
optimal conditions (conditions to be specified in details in the problem description). Outputs such
as the water pump and visual indicators ensure
accurate, automated irrigation, delivering benefits
like water conservation, improved plant health, and
the convenience of hands-free operation.
System Design: The smart irrigation system Figure 1 smart irrigation system in practice
smart irrigation system in practice
comprises a microcontroller and a water pump
sensor. It measures humidity levels using sensors
like the soil moisture sensor. The ATmega8 microcontroller analyzes the collected data and
manages the water pump based on pre-set thresholds customized to suit specific plant
requirements.
The soil moisture sensor in practical will depend on soil resistivity, so when the soil is fully
mustered, the resistivity of the soil will be low. Vice versa, when the soil is dry soil resistivity will be
at maximum so no flow of electricity will be moving through the soil.
Abstract:
The Smart Irrigation System utilize the humidity sensor to monitor soil moisture levels, with a
microcontroller, such as the ATmega8 which will handle data then processing the data then
manipulating the data using specific methods to give a signal based on the output of the sensor and
determine when to display the on or off on the LCD . Based on the collected information, the
system efficiently controls the activation of a water pump for farm or tree irrigation, with its
operation indicated through a motor.
Intensity that must be exceeded for value of humidity, which determine when the pump is
activated, are adaptable and tailored to the specific needs of the plants or farm.
These values are typically established through practical observation and experimentation, ensuring
optimal conditions for plant growth, these conditions are specified in percentages of the soil
moisture.
However, these values are merely illustrative; actual thresholds vary depending on factors such as
plant type, local climate, potential environmental events, crop requirements, and needs of the
plant. Determining accurate thresholds requires careful research and expert input.
The microcontroller we used in the project (The ATmega8 microcontroller) will convert the analog
sensor readings into digital values using its ADC (Analog-to-Digital Converter), this conversion is
crucial to operate the system. This system provides health and fast growth for the plants, saving
water, avoiding overwatering the plants, and avoiding soil dryness.
Problem Description:
Maintaining optimal water levels for plants is a complex task. Traditional irrigation methods often
lead to water wastage or insufficient hydration, negatively affecting plant health. A modern smart
irrigation approach incorporates sensor and a controller to assess watering requirements based
soil moisture. However, accurately defining the thresholds for initiating irrigation is a significant
challenge. Incorrect parameter settings can expose plants to heat stress or dehydration,
jeopardizing their growth and vitality.
Achieving the perfect balance involves thorough testing and close collaboration with agricultural
experts to customize thresholds according to specific plant species and regional climatic
conditions. Implementing such a system effectively offers numerous benefits, including water
conservation, improved plant health, and the elimination of issues caused by overwatering or
underwatering.
The system progression is first it takes an analog value continuously from the soil moisture sensor
then display these values in the PC by UART approach, so for example if the analog value is higher
than 128 the pump will turn on and water will flow to irrigate the plant or the farm, otherwise when
the analog value is less than 128 the pump will turn off to stop the water flow. So overall the analog
value 128 represents a 50% dryness of the soil.
Component and Equipment:
• Power supply.
• ATmega8 microcontroller.
Figure 2: soil moisture sensor
• Breadboard.
• MOSFET (IRF540).
• Diode (1N4007).
Figure 5: Diode (1N4007)
• 10k resistance.
References:
Smart Irrigation Technology and System - Renke. (2022, August 27). Environment Monitoring
Sensors Manufacturer. [Link](https://www.renkeer.com/smart-irrigation-technology-and- system/)