A new metric for building automation systems using microcontroller

Abdul Aziz Bin Ruzaini1, Ahmad Maslan Bin Sinto2, *, Jagan A/L Visyanathan3, Pravin Raj
A/L Visyanathan4

1,2,3,4
Bachelor Of Technology In Electrical System Maintenance With Honours (BBJ) Group
6, Faculty of Technical and Vocational Education, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia
(UTHM), 86400 Batu Pahat, Johor, Malaysia.
*
Corresponding author. E-mail address: [email protected], my (Pravin Raj A/L
Visyanathan)

Abstract:

This project outlines building a Building Automation System (BAS) with Arduino for

homes and businesses. The BAS aims to cut energy use, boost comfort, and beef up

security by running building systems on autopilot. The BAS packs these key perks:

1. Energy Savings: Smart control of lights, heat, airflow, and AC to slash power bills

based on who's around and when.

2. Safety Net: Hooks up gadgets like motion sensors, alarms on doors and windows,

and spy cams to keep an eye on things and ward off trouble.

3. Indoor Health Check: Keeps tabs on stuff like temp, moisture in the air, and how

clean it is to keep the space comfy and healthy.

4. Remote Access and Control: Users can manage the system from anywhere using a

smartphone app or web portal, which offers a user-friendly remote access and control

interface.

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 5. Scalability and Flexibility: Designed to be scalable, the system lets users add more

sensors and devices when needed. It can also be tailored to suit various building types,

from small homes to large commercial spaces.

The system centres around an Arduino microcontroller because it is versatile, easy to

use, and supported by a community. Many sensors and actuators hook up to the Arduino

to gather data and automate tasks. The Arduino communicates with the remote interface

via Wi-Fi or other wireless methods allowing smooth integration and control by the

user. This Building Automation System (BAS) seeks to offer a less expensive and more

effective solution for managing modern buildings by using microcontrollers to add

advanced automation to many applications. This paper discusses ways to improve

building operations in efficiency, ease, and functionality using automated control

systems. The system includes these features:

1. Lighting System:

o Manual Control: Capability to turn lamps on and off via a switch.

o Dimmer Control: Use a switch or potentiometer to adjust lamp brightness.

o Automatic Control: Integration of a light sensor to automatically adjust lamp

brightness based on ambient light levels, optimizing energy consumption and

maintaining desired lighting conditions.

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 2. Socket Switch Outlet (SSO) Control:

o On/Off Control: Ability to remotely turn SSO on or off, providing control over

connected devices and appliances.

The microcontroller serves as the central controller, managing inputs from switches,

potentiometers, and light sensors, and executing corresponding outputs to control lamps and

SSO. The system is designed to be user-friendly and easily expandable, allowing additional

sensors and control points to be integrated as needed. By employing microcontrollers like

Arduino or Maker UNO, the BAS offers a versatile and cost-effective solution for automating

building functions. This enhances energy efficiency, provides convenience, and ensures

adaptability for various home and commercial environments.

Keywords: Designed to enhance energy efficiency, improve comfort, and ensure security by

automating various buildings.

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1. Introduction

In modern society, the incorporation of smart technologies within the spaces where we live,

and work is of paramount importance. Another effort in this direction is the Building

Automation Systems (BAS) which provides solutions in energy efficiency, security and

convenience. This project is about creating an intelligent BAS with microcontrollers like

Arduino or Maker UNO for residential and commercial purposes. This system was designed to

transform major functions within the building through automation. Application of

microcontrollers in Building Automation. Arduino and Maker UNO microcontrollers have

become popular enabling affordable, and versatile automation solutions. These devices are easy

to use, well supported in the amateur community, and very versatile devices which are good

for a wide variety of tasks. Concerning building automation, microcontrollers can conveniently

connect with different loads, sensors, and actuators to manage lighting, HVAC systems,

security gadgets, etc.

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2. Methodology

The flowchart of the system is based on the microcontroller, often referred to as the central

controller. The microcontroller communicates with different sensors and actors to control the

lighting and the SSO. In the lighting system unit, the microcontroller receives inputs from

manual switches, potentiometers, and light sensors and determines the state and brightness of

the lamps. The automatic dimming function uses light data obtained from the light sensor to

control the lighting of the car interior. Regarding the SSO control the microcontroller handles

the ON/OFF states according to signals from manual switches or a remote interface. The remote

interface can be implemented using Wi-Fi or other wireless communication technologies to

enable the users to operate the system using a smartphone app or a web portal.

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2.1. Bill of materials

Smart Home Lighting and SSO Automation System Using Arduino

2 MB102 Solderless Large breadboard 1 CM RM3.90 RM3.90

3 Single Channel 5V Relay Breakout 1 1 RM 5.00 RM 5.00

4 5MM Led Light (RED, BLUE AND 3 Unit RM 0.40 RM 1.20

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5 Arduino breadboard dupont jumper 30 Pcs RM 5.00 RM 5.00
wire 10p 40p male female

6 Potentiometer / Variable resistor 1 250KΩ RM 1.00 RM 1.00

7 Resistor 0.25W 5% (10KΩ) 3 KΩ RM 1.00 RM 3.00

8 Photoresistor Light Dependent Resistor 1 1 RM 1.00 RM 1.00

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 9 B3f push button round (green, blue, 2 KΩ RM 1.00 RM 2.00
red, yellow, white, black, grey)

Total Number Quantity 14 Total cost RM 51.34

2.2. Program Coding

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2.3. Procedure / Method

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3. Results and discussion

• Lighting System Control

o Manual On/Off Control.

The usage of a switch panel for manual control was also added and tested

successfully. Depending on the connected switches users can easily switch the

lamps on or off. The basic functionality was established to be fully functional

and efficient and a new one was quick to respond and offered on-the-spot access

to the lighting system.

o Dimmer Control.

Potentially the dimmers control implemented with potentiometers supplied

sufficient and appropriate control over lamp intensity levels. The brightness can

be changed to whichever the user wanted, was an added advantage since it

means people can adjust the light according to their desire. The potentiometer

was sensitive and the changes in brightness were elegant – thus it was evident

that the system could easily meet different client needs.

o Automatic Dimming.

That is why the addition of light sensors for the dimming function’s integration

was identified as a key improvement. It was possible to control the lamp

brightness by the change in ambient light levels reduce power consumption to

the appropriate level and guarantee the desired level of illumination. In testing,

the lamps were adjusting their brightness, that is, reducing when there was

increased natural light and vice versa. This feature is very useful because it

lowers energy use and increases the comfort of the users by providing a stable

illuminance level.

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Socket Switch Outlet (SSO) Control

• On/Off Control

The on/off control feature for the SSO. Users can activate or deactivate the SSO.

Much emphasis was placed on this feature, and it was found to be very convenient.

There was a short response time, and the system was responsive to the commands

given by the user. This capability makes it easier to manage energy by allowing a

user to switch on or off power to certain appliances.

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System Performance and Reliability

Scalability and Flexibility

The modularity of the system was challenged by the installation of more sensors and control

area. The microcontroller was able to manage the increased configuration without any impact

on the system’s capability, further proving the system’s scalability. This makes it possible for

the system to be easily customized to suit different sizes and complexity of buildings, from a

small house to a complex commercial building.

Energy Efficiency

initial readings of energy consumption manifested a considerable decrease in power usage

because of the automatic dimming function. To achieve this, the brightness of the lamp is

controlled by the system such that it does not produce light beyond what is required because of

the prevailing lighting conditions. This was also helpful in the control of the SSO to save energy

since users were able to switch it off.

User Experience

Some of the feedback that test users provided about the system was that it was easy to use.

Switches and potentiometers were used for the manual control and the automatic dimming

feature was quite simple and enhanced comfort. There was a great appreciation of the remote-

control option that was provided with the device, as it reduced the level of direct control

required from the users.

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Discussion

Advantages

1. Energy Savings: The automatic dimming and SSO control significantly contribute to

energy efficiency. By leveraging natural light and allowing management, the system

reduces overall power consumption.

2. User Convenience: The ability to control lighting and SSOs enhances user

convenience, making it easier to manage building functions even when away from the

premises.

3. Scalability: The system's design allows for easy expansion, accommodating additional

sensors and control points as needed. This makes it suitable for both small and large-

scale applications.

4. Cost-Effectiveness: Using microcontrollers like Arduino or Maker UNO ensures the

system remains affordable while delivering high functionality.

Challenges and Limitations

1. Network Dependency: The control feature relies on a stable internet connection. Any

disruption in connectivity could affect the system's responsiveness.

2. Sensor Accuracy: The accuracy of the light sensors can impact the performance of the

automatic dimming feature. Ensuring high-quality sensors are used is essential for

optimal performance.

3. User Adaptation: While the system is user-friendly, some users may require time to

adapt to the new controls and features. Providing comprehensive user guides and

support can mitigate this issue.

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Future Improvements

1. Enhanced Security: Implementing security measures for the feature, such as

encryption and authentication, to protect against unauthorized access.

2. Integration with Other Systems: Expanding the system to integrate with other

building automation systems, such as HVAC and security systems, for a more

comprehensive automation solution.

3. Advanced Analytics: Incorporating data analytics to provide users with insights into

their energy usage patterns and suggestions for further efficiency improvements.

4. Conclusion

The developed Building Automation System using microcontrollers like Arduino and

Maker UNO has proven to be effective, efficient, and user-friendly. It successfully

automates lighting control and SSO management, offering significant benefits in terms of

energy savings and convenience. The system's scalability and flexibility make it suitable

for a wide range of applications, from residential homes to commercial buildings. With

further enhancements and integration, this BAS has the potential to become a cornerstone

of smart building technology.

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Acknowledgement

We would like to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who contributed to the successful

completion of this Building Automation System project.

Firstly, we extend our sincere thanks to our project advisor, [Ts. Dr. Khairul Rijal Bin

Wagiman], for their invaluable guidance, insightful suggestions, and unwavering support

throughout the project. Their expertise and encouragement have been instrumental in

overcoming the challenges faced during the development process.

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