Contents

Abstract i

List of Figures ii

1 Introduction 1
1.1 Motivation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
1.2 Organisation of the report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

2 Literature Survey 3
2.1 Objective of the project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2.2 Scope of the project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

3 System Overview 6
3.1 Methodology and Blockdiagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
3.3 Brief Description of the Block Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
3.3.1 Blynk IOT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
3.3.2 RFID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
3.3.3 fingerprint module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
3.3.4 microcontroller ATmega328p . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
3.3.5 Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

4 System Hardware 9
4.1 Arduino nano . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
4.2 Fingerprint module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
4.3 Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
4.4 RFID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

5 System Software 15
5.1 About software requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
5.2 Flowchart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

6 Tests and ResultS 17

7 Conclusion 19

Bibliography 19
List of Figures
3.1 block diagram of fingerprint sensor based projection system . . . . . . . . . 7

4.1 Image of Fingerprint Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

4.2 Image of Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
4.3 Image of RFID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

5.1 Flowchart of fingerprint sensor based protection system . . . . . . . . . . . 16

6.1 Image of Hardware Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

6.2 Image of RFID scanner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
6.3 Image of fingerprint scanner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

ii
Chapter 1
Introduction
Now a days electricity become a part of our daily life and also electricity is used for various
purpose like industry or commercial sectors.The electrical energy is the clean and cheapest
form of energy for the specific needs of domestic, corporate and industrial consumers. The
electric distribution is a very wide network of wires to deliver the supply by incorporating
various electrical elements. In current scenario accidental cases of deaths or injuries of
linemen is noticed while working on the section of line for the repair or maintenance. the
present work focuses on regular practice and flaws of line clearance (LC) for the repair
request and closing of LC after the repair is done. The drawbacks of current LC system
are charging of the line by accidental or by mistake of the operators at substation may be
due to lack of communication or criticality has evidenced injuries or even death of working
linemen on the line. The use of intelligent micro controllers for various control mechanisms
is found in the literature .This project is set up so that a lineman or maintenance worker
must input the fingerprint in order to turn ON or OFF the electrical line. Now, if
there is a problem with an electrical line, the line man will turn off the power supply
to the paramount concern, particularly concerning the well-being of electrical linemen
working tirelessly to maintain and repair power lines. However, amidst the crucial tasks
performed by these linemen, incidents of critical electrical accidents during repair work
have surged due to inadequate coordination and communication between maintenance
staff and substation personnel .

1.1 Motivation
Electric linemen operate in one of the most hazardous work environments, where acciden-
tal electrocution remains a significant risk despite stringent safety protocols. Traditional
methods to ensure power lines are de-energized before maintenance often rely on human
actions and communication, which can be fallible. This project aims to introduce a fin-
gerprint sensor-based protection system that addresses these challenges by enhancing the
safety and reliability of the process.

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Fingerprint sensor based protection system 2023-24
The motivation behind this project is rooted in the critical need to minimize human error
and improve the accountability and efficiency of safety measures. By implementing a
biometric authentication system, we ensure that only authorized personnel can control
the energization and de-energization of power lines. This system not only provides an
additional layer of security but also logs user actions, creating a robust audit trail that
can be reviewed for compliance and safety verification.
In essence, the drive to develop this system is fueled by the imperative to safeguard the
lives of electric linemen, reduce the risk of accidents, and utilize modern technology to
create a more reliable and foolproof safety mechanism. This innovation has the potential
to significantly enhance the safety standards in the industry and ensure that maintenance
activities are conducted in the safest possible manner.

1.2 Organisation of the report

The report is divided into 8 chapters. Chapter 2, presents a literature survey covering
the theory of Fingerprint sensor based protection system for electric lineman. Chapter
3.provides a overview of the system including a block diagram and a brief description of
each block which include the Fingerprint module,Microcontroller,Relay, Power supply .In
Chapter 4, Details the system hardware describing the components such as the Arduino
Nano, Fingerprint module, Relay, RFID, Powersupply. In Chapter 5,describes steps in-
volved in a designing a system.In chapter 6,focusses on system software and including
Arduino IDE, Flowchart of the system.In cahpter 7 and 8,Draws conclusion based on
the results and discusses of the fingerprint sensor based protection system for electric
lineman.

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Chapter 2
Literature Survey
This chapter includes the literature survey has been carried out on Fingerprint sensor
based protection system for electric lineman.
[1]Midhun Prasanth et.al (2020) have Proposed a Protection of Distribution System is to
bring a solution for increasing loss of power as well as human life, caused by electrical shock
during breakdown of distribution lines and to implement a safer working environment for
lineman. The circuit breaker unit works on a pre-set password, which is already stored
in the memory of microcontroller. An external keypad is provided for the entering of
password by the authority, both the passwords are compared by the microcontroller and
if they match, the relay can be operated for connection and disconnection of supply. This
password based circuit breaker has several advantages, it is capable of providing a safer
working environment to lineman and safer disconnection of power supply is possible by
authority with a mobile application.
[2] Okhueleigbe et.al (2021) have examined the problem faced during electrical accident in-
vestigation ,This system focuses veers towards dispelling apprehensions, uncertainties, and
suspicions surrounding the re-energization of purportedly isolated lines. This quandary
often pits DISCO’s linesmen and substation operators against factory maintenance tech-
nicians and their control room counterparts during investigations. The research seeks a
solution that would be universally acceptable in determining the actual cause of energiza-
tion during repairs and maintenance, potentially attributable to feedback current from
another source. With the implementation of a password and fingerprint-protected cir-
cuit breaker, the peace of mind of the linesmen is ensured, and their safety is maximally
guaranteed.
[3] Adarsh H R et.al (2021) have proposed the development of fingerprint based IOT
controlled Electric Protection System is based on a circuit breaker that can only be
remotely controlled by the lineman. When in operation, only authorized personnel can
control the circuit breaker either remotely via a dedicated IoT application or manually
using a fingerprint sensor at the workstation. A relay mechanism facilitates the opening

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Fingerprint sensor based protection system 2023-24
and closing of the circuit breaker, ensuring secure and controlled access.

[4] Shafique Ahmed Soomro et.al (2021) have Presents a system that addresses the global
need for centralized internet communication to monitor and control installed electrical
systems, with a specific focus on protecting linemen from hazards. It introduces an au-
tomatic password-based circuit breaker designed to enhance lineman safety. This system
allows linemen to operate substations by entering a reference password, facilitating fault
detection in installed electric lines. By improving lineman efficiency and reducing accident
risks, the proposed method offers additional security measures for the electrical system.

[5] Ritik Sharma et.al (2021) have Presents a system that uses the microcontroller ,which
controls all the operations in regarding the password system. For this process, required
components like microcontroller control circuitry, power supply, relay and keypad. These
keypads are used for entering a password for operating different load which is connected
to the controller. If suppose password is wrong, then the load will not be switched to the
controller and then the controller checks for the precaution instruction which is provided
by the developer. This includes operations such as the number of loads to be opened,
the number of threshold levels that are crossed. In this process, the controller checks
the number of threshold levels that are crossed and according to that the gates are being
controlled.

[6] M.Dilip kumar et.al (2022) have examined a system utilizing password-controlled ac-
cess to control panel doors and circuit breakers. This system aims to address the lack
of coordination and communication between maintenance crews and electric substation
workers, which often contributes to serious electrical accidents during line repairs. By
providing a secure method for linemen to control circuit breaker activation, the proposed
technique significantly improves safety protocols. Upon request, linemen receive a pass-
word from the control room, granting them access to the circuit breaker controls at the
repair site. Utilizing an Arduino Uno microcontroller connected to a matrix keypad, line-
men input the password, enabling them to safely perform repairs with the option to open
or close the circuit breaker as needed.

[7] Kavitha et.al (2022) have proposed a solution to address this issue by introducing a cir-
cuit breaker control system operated through a password mechanism. The system grants
exclusive control over the power line to the lineman, requiring a password input for circuit
breaker operation (on/off). Utilizing a microcontroller from the 8051 family, interfaced

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Fingerprint sensor based protection system 2023-24
with a matrix keypad, the system ensures secure authentication by cross-referencing the
entered password with the stored password in the microcontroller’s ROM. Successful au-
thentication enables the lineman to activate or deactivate the circuit breaker, with visual
feedback provided by an illuminated lamp.
[8] Josya Marvin Immanuel et.al (2024) have proposed an advanced security system that
combines facial recognition and fingerprint verification, integrated with Internet of Things
technology. This system aims to enhance the security of safes by requiring dual authen-
tication, thus significantly reducing unauthorized access risks. The system works by first
capturing and verifying the user’s face using a facial recognition module. Upon successful
facial authentication, it then requires a fingerprint scan to complete the verification pro-
cess. This dual-layered security approach ensures that only authorized users can access
the safe.

2.1 Objective of the project

To design and implement a fingerprint sensor based protection system to provide a safety
to electric lineman from electrical shocks and accidental damages.

2.2 Scope of the project

The scope of the project is to;

• Prepare schematic circuit of the project.

• Design Circuit and PCB.

• Interface fingerprint sensor to Arduino.

• Programme Arduino nano by using Arduino IDE software.

• Test the system.

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Chapter 3
System Overview
3.1 Methodology and Blockdiagram
The proposed system is designed to control a circuit breaker with the help of a fingerprint
on fingerprint module.The controlling of the project can be done by an Ardunio. A fin-
gerprint module is connected to the microcontroller to access the fingerprint.The circuit
breaker activation and deactivation is indicated by a lamp (ON/OFF).When the finger-
print is entering on the fingerprint module if it is matched with stored fingerprint then
the microcontroller sends a signal to relay to turn OFF the line.when the maintenance
is done, and then put the fingerprint on module . if it matched with stored fingerprint
then microcontroller sends signal to relay to turn ON the line. A fingerprint module is
connected to the microcontroller to access the fingerprint. The entering fingerprint is com-
pared with the stored fingerprint in the microcontroller. If the given fingerprint is right,
then only the line can be switched ON/OFF. The circuit breaker activation/deactivation
is indicated by a lamp (ON/OFF).

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Fingerprint sensor based protection system 2023-24

Figure 3.1: block diagram of fingerprint sensor based projection system

Above Figure 3.1 shows the block diagram of the fingerprint sensor based protection
system for electric line man. if any fault occures in transmission and distrubution lines,the
head of the substation granted permission to lineman to repair line. After the permission
lineman scan the RFID tags then enter the fingerprint on fingerprint module then send
signal to the microcontroller ,if fingerprint matches with stored fingerprint access granted
.The microcontroller send signal to relay to turn ON/OFF the load.after repair has to be
done again line man put the fingerprint then only line will be charged.

3.3 Brief Description of the Block Diagram

The block diagram of the Fingerprint sensor based protection system for electric lineman
project is shown in figure 3.1.It consists of the following components

3.3.1 Blynk IOT

Blynk IoT is a platform that provides tools for building and managing Internet of Things
(IoT) applications. It allows users to create custom mobile and web applications to control
and monitor connected devices.and also used to select the particular lineman for repairng
line.

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Fingerprint sensor based protection system 2023-24

3.3.2 RFID
RFID is a technology that uses radio waves to read and capture information stored on
a tag attached to an object. In this system after permission is given from the Blink iot
then line scan the rfid cards.

3.3.3 fingerprint module

A fingerprint module is a device used to capture and recognize fingerprints for identifica-
tion and authentication purposes. In this system liman scan the rfid card then enter the
fingerprint on fingerprint module,if fingerprint matches turn on/off line.

3.3.4 microcontroller ATmega328p

The ATmega328P is a popular microcontroller from Microchip Technology. It is widely
used in various embedded systems and is the core component of many Arduino boards,
including the Arduino Uno. this is programmed and control the enter system .it is used
access the fingerprint and send signal to the relay module to turn on/off line .

3.3.5 Relay
A relay is an electrically operated switch used to control a high-power or high-voltage
circuit with a low-power signal. In this system relay is used turn onthe line.

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Chapter 4
System Hardware
4.1 Arduino nano
The Arduino Nano is a compact, breadboard-friendly microcontroller board based on the
ATmega328P (or ATmega168). Here are some key features and details:
Microcontroller: ATmega328P (ATmega168 on older versions)
Operating Voltage: 5V
Input Voltage: 7-12V (via VIN pin)
Digital I/O Pins: 14 (6 provide PWM output)
Analog Input Pins: 8
DC Current per I/O Pin: 40 mA
Flash Memory: 32 KB (ATmega328P) of which 2 KB used by bootloader
SRAM: 2 KB (ATmega328P)
EEPROM: 1 KB (ATmega328P)
Clock Speed: 16 MHz
Dimensions: 45 mm x 18 mm
Fingerprint Enrollment:
Authorized personnel’s fingerprints are enrolled and stored in the fingerprint sensor’s
memory. This step typically involves using a predefined setup mode where the Arduino
Nano communicates with the fingerprint sensor to capture and store fingerprints. Finger-
print Verification:
When a lineman needs to perform maintenance, they place their finger on the fingerprint
sensor. The sensor captures the fingerprint and sends the data to the Arduino Nano.
The Arduino Nano processes the fingerprint data and compares it against the stored
fingerprints to verify the identity. Authorization Check:
If the fingerprint matches an authorized entry, the Arduino Nano triggers a relay module
to de-energize the power lines, ensuring that it is safe for maintenance. If the fingerprint
does not match, the system denies access and can trigger a buzzer or LED to indicate

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unauthorized access. Control and Feedback:
The Arduino Nano can be programmed to provide feedback via an LCD display, showing
messages like “Access Granted” or “Access Denied.” Additionally, it can activate LEDs
or a buzzer to provide immediate visual or auditory feedback to the user. Logging and
Monitoring:
The system can be extended to log the timestamp and identity of each authorized access
attempt, providing a record for safety audits and compliance checks.

4.2 Fingerprint module

Fingerprint modules are devices used for biometric authentication by scanning and recog-
nizing human fingerprints. They are commonly used in security systems, access control,
and identification applications. Here are some general features of fingerprint module:

• Fingerprint Sensor: Optical sensor or capacitive sensor that captures fingerprint

images.

• Microcontroller: Built-in microcontroller to process and store fingerprint data.

• Interface: Typically UART (serial) communication interface.

• Storage: Can store a certain number of fingerprint templates in its onboard memory.

• Identification: Can perform 1:1 verification (comparing a captured fingerprint with

a stored template) and 1:N identification (comparing a captured fingerprint against
all stored templates).

• Power Supply: Usually operates at 3.3V or 5V.

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Fingerprint sensor based protection system 2023-24

Figure 4.1: Image of Fingerprint Module

4.3 Relay

Figure 4.2: Image of Relay

A relay is an electrically operated switch shown in Figure 4.3 . Many relays use an electro-
magnet to operate switching mechanism mechanically, but other operating principles are
also used. Relays are used where it is necessary to control a circuit by a low-power signal
(with complete electrical isolation between control and controlled circuits), or where sev-
eral circuits must be controlled by one signal. A relay is an electrically operated switch.
Current flowing through the coil of the relay creates a magnetic field which attracts a
lever and changes the switch contacts. The coil current can be on or off so relays have
two switch positions and most have double throw (changeover) switch contacts as shown
in the diagram.

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Fingerprint sensor based protection system 2023-24

4.4 RFID

Figure 4.3: Image of RFID

RFID, which stands for Radio-Frequency Identification, is a technology that uses electro-
magnetic fields to automatically identify and track tags attached to objects. The tags
contain electronically stored information. Here are the main components and concepts of
RFID: Components:-
1.RFID Tags:

• Passive Tags: Do not have their own power source and are powered by the reader’s
electromagnetic field. They have a shorter read range.

• Active Tags: Have their own power source (battery) and can transmit signals over
longer distances.

• Semi-Passive Tags: Have a battery to power the tag’s circuitry but rely on the
reader for communication.

2.RFID Readers: Devices that send out a signal and receive the data transmitted back
from the RFID tags. Readers can be fixed or mobile.
3.Antenna: Both the RFID reader and tag have antennas that enable them to communi-
cate with each other.

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Fingerprint sensor based protection system 2023-24

How It Works
1.Transmission: The RFID reader sends out an electromagnetic signal.
2.Activation: The signal powers up the RFID tag (in the case of passive tags).
3.Response: The tag transmits its stored information back to the reader.
4.Data Processing: The reader receives the information and sends it to a computer system
for processing.

Applications

• Inventory Management: Tracking products in warehouses and retail stores.

• Supply Chain: Monitoring the movement of goods through the supply chain.

• Access Control: Managing entry to secured areas using RFID cards or badges.

• Transportation: Automated toll collection and tracking of public transportation

systems.

• Healthcare: Tracking patients and equipment in hospitals.

• Livestock Tracking: Monitoring animals in agriculture.

Advantages

• Efficiency: Enables fast and accurate tracking of objects.

• Automation: Reduces the need for manual data entry and human intervention.

• Security: Enhances security through better control and tracking of assets.

Limitations

• Cost: The initial setup and cost of RFID tags and readers can be high.

• Interference: RFID systems can be affected by metal objects and liquids, which can
interfere with signal transmission.

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Fingerprint sensor based protection system 2023-24
• Privacy Concerns: There are potential privacy issues related to tracking and data
collection.

RFID technology is widely used across various industries due to its versatility and effi-
ciency in tracking and managing objects.

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Chapter 5
System Software
5.1 About software requirements
Two softwares are used for this project

1. Arduino IDE: For programming of the project

Arduino IDE
IDE stands for “Integrated Development Environment” :it is an official software intro-
duced by Arduino.cc that is mainly used for editing, compiling and uploading the code in
the Arduino Device. Almost all Arduino modules are compatible with this software that
is an open source and is readily available to install and start compiling the code on the
go.
BLYNK IOT
Blynk IoT is a platform that provides tools for building and managing Internet of Things
(IoT) applications. It allows users to create custom mobile and web applications to control
and monitor connected devices.

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Fingerprint sensor based protection system 2023-24

5.2 Flowchart

Figure 5.1: Flowchart of fingerprint sensor based protection system

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Chapter 6
Tests and ResultS
This system provides a solution, which can improve the safety of the electric lineman. It
is designed to control a circuit breaker with the help of a fingerprint module.

Figure 6.1: Image of Hardware Module

If any fault occures in transmission and distrubution lines,the head of the substation
granted permission to lineman to repair line. After the permission lineman scan the
RFID tags.

Figure 6.2: Image of RFID scanner

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Fingerprint sensor based protection system 2023-24

Figure 6.3: Image of fingerprint scanner

Then enter the fingerprint on fingerprint module then send signal to the microcontroller
,if fingerprint matches with stored fingerprint access granted .The microcontroller send
signal to relay to turn ON/OFF the load.after repair has to be done again line man put
the fingerprint then only line will be charged.

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Chapter 7
Conclusion
This system provides a solution, which can improve the safety of the project. It is designed
to control a circuit breaker with the help of a fingerprint module. The maintenance staff
e.g., Line man’s for control to turn ON/OFF. The line works with the line man only this
system is arrangement such that a fingerprint is required to operate the circuit breaker
(ON/OFF). Line man can turn off the supply and comfortably repair it, and return to the
substation, then turn on the line by putdown the fingerprint. The system fully controlled
by a ATmega328p microcontroller . If the fingerprint matches with the stored fingerprint
, then the line can be turned (ON/OFF). Security is prime concern in our day-to-day
life. Everyone wants to be more secure as to be possible. This system provides a new
approach to a lineman security for their life. The circuit can be used without any fail of
a lineman. The circuit can be used without any load can also be controlled when required.

19
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[2] Okhueleigbe, Okhaifoh “Development and implementation of a password and finger-

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[3] Adarsha H R,Arun Kumar ,Mahesha N,Nandan Gowda S J, Manjunatha Prabhu

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[4] Shafique Ahmed Soomro, Muhammad Faizaan Khan, Syed Abid Ali Shah, Asad Ali,
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[5] Ritik Sharma, Pulusu Srinivas Reddy, Vineet Kumar “ PASSWORD BASED CIR-
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[6] Dr. M. Dilip kumar ,J Anvesh goud, M G Manish Chandra, J Sumanth “ ELEC-
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[7] K.KAVITHA “CIRCUIT BREAKER AUTHENTICATION FOR ELECTRICAL

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[8] Josya Marvin Immanuel, Ibrahim, Reni Rahmadewi, Yuliarman Saragih “IoT-based
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Fingerprint sensor based protection system 2023-24
[9] Mohd Inamul Haque, Sanket Kalaskar, Mohan Raut, Saurav Walokar, Ganesh Ingole
“Fingerprint Sensor Based System”.

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