Republic of the Philippines

Western Mindanao State University

DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER SCIENCE
Pagadian City

Solar-Powered Smart Bim System with Real-Time Monitoring for

Optimized Waste Management using Internet of Things

A Thesis proposal presented to the faculty of

Department of Computer Science
College of Computing Studies

In partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Janjie M. Aljas
Brethel B. Chavez
Charlotte E. Ploma
Elen M. Sumagang
Researchers

Randy L. Cañete
Adviser

March 25, 2024

 INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

In today's world, trash management and disposal are challenges. The issue of
waste disposal in the world is one that is only getting worse as industrialized countries
expand and the population increases. One frequent form of disposal is to dump waste
materials at open landfill sites. There are negative environmental effects from the
disposal method of dumping in open land sites. Human health is impacted, as is the
existence of plants and animals, by the disposal of waste in such an exposed area [1,2].

The traditional method of managing waste involves citizens of cities producing

waste, which is then dumped in trash cans at the site of origination. The city's garbage
trucks pick up the trash and deliver it to the designated facilities on a prearranged
schedule. People find it difficult to monitor the outdoor bins to know when to clean them
or if they are fully filled. The prevention, tracking, and treatment of these wastes are
among the most urgent problems of our day [3]. With the use of modern technology, the
labor-intensive, time-consuming, and costly manual waste inspection process in bins can
be removed [4].

The Internet of Things (IoT) has the potential to significantly impact urban areas'
safety, efficiency, and greenness. By integrating all of the infrastructure, vehicles, and
electronics in a city, safety and quality of life can be improved [5]. IoT is essential to
improving smart city applications since it allows for real-time process management and
monitoring. Solid waste management, which has an effect on both the environment and
the health of our society, is one of the main issues with smart city applications [6].

We propose a solar-based waste monitoring system based on the level of waste

materials in trash cans. The integration of solar power into this system not only ensures
greater energy independence and sustainability but also contributes to the reduction of
greenhouse gas emissions associated with conventional waste management practices.
The system utilizes sensors to gather information on the fill level of trash cans, which is
then transmitted to a central server via the Internet. This data is processed and stored

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on the server, enabling city waste management department to remotely monitor the
status of dustbins through a web interface.

As the trash cans reach their maximum capacity, the waste management
department receives alerts via SMS through GSM modules installed in the dustbins. This
allows the department to efficiently dispatch waste collector vehicles to the respective
locations for garbage collection. By optimizing the cost and time required for waste
collection, the system contributes to keeping cities clean and improves the practicality of
IoT-based waste management for smart cities.

Furthermore, the collected data on trash can fill levels is utilized to make
informed decisions about route optimization for waste collection vehicles. Dijkstra
algorithm will be used for calculating the shortest path. The system dynamically updates
and sends optimal routes to the garbage collectors through their GPS devices, ensuring
efficient collection from various locations within the city.

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Statement of the Problem

Efficient waste management systems are crucial for maintaining clean and
sustainable environments. An effective waste monitoring system should accurately track
bin fill levels in real-time, optimizing waste collection routes and minimizing costs while
promoting environmental sustainability. Current waste management practices often rely
on manual collection methods, leading to inefficiencies such as overflowing bins,
increased operational costs, and environmental pollution due to missed collections and
inefficient routes [7]. Implementing a solar-based waste monitoring system utilizing IoT
technology can address these challenges. By providing real-time data on bin fill levels,
the city can optimize collection routes, reduce costs, and enhance environmental
stewardship, leading to cleaner and more sustainable communities.

Objectives

The general objective of this study is to design and develop a waste management
monitoring system that can detect level of trash bin to optimize collection routes, save
operating costs, to alert garbage collectors when a trash bin is nearing full capacity and
improve overall garbage disposal efficiency, develop a solar-powered waste
management system with real-time trash bin monitoring. And encourage the use of
renewable energy (solar power) for waste management systems, contributing to
environmental goals.

Specifically, the study will:

 develop a solar-powered waste management with real-time monitoring system
that will monitor the waste level and will send out real-time notification in the web
application about the level of waste in the trash bins in five specific places in the
city.
 integrate sensors like Ultrasonic sensors, a Ublox NEO-6M GPS Module, an
Arduino Uno – R3, a QuadBand GPRS-GSM SIM800L and ESP8266-01 - Wifi
Module.
 improve waste collection by using GPS for real-time bin location data, saving
time, fuel, and costs while minimizing environmental impact. GPS technology in

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 garbage cans enables real-time tracking and alerts, optimizing resource
distribution and prioritizing high waste areas for efficient management.
 enhance waste level monitoring, use quality sensors, enable real-time
monitoring, perform routine maintenance, and ensure a strong communication
network for reliable data transfer.

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Scope and Limitations

This study broadens its original scope by including a waste monitoring system for
some specific places in Pagadian City that is solar based. The addition entails
incorporating solar-powered sensors into the software for monitoring waste
management, assuring efficient data collection. Two solar-powered trash cans with
monitoring equipment will be installed in strategic locations as part of the suggested
system. By using data-driven insights and improved waste management efficiency, this
comprehensive approach seeks to optimize energy use, support environmental
sustainability, and address waste-related challenges in the city. To enhance the waste
monitoring system for in the city, a GPS tracker will be incorporated into the solar-
powered garbage cans as part of the expanded scope. By attaching a GPS tracker to
the garbage cans, it can improve by providing real-time location data in the waste
monitoring system. This feature can track the movement of bins, increase waste
collection efficiency, and possibly even help improve collection routes, save operating
costs and to alert garbage collectors when a trash bin is nearing full capacity.

While the Waste Management Monitoring System boasts solar-based

functionality, limitations arise from time and resource constraints. These constraints
affect features such as garbage collection schedule, difficulties adding more trash bin
sites, and difficulties correctly separating biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste
are other downsides brought on by time and resource constraints. The installation of
solar-powered trash cans is limited to strategic locations within the city. Despite being
solar-based other alternative energy sources for waste monitoring systems, such as
wind or hydroelectric power, are beyond the purview of this study. Because the system
only uses solar power for the garbage cans and not for internal operations, it cannot
notify the server in the event of an electrical outage. This study solely measures the
amount of waste in trash cans; it does not include waste segregation.

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Significance of the Study

The researchers will design and develop a solar-based waste monitoring system
for the following benefactors:
City Council. By addressing residents' concerns, particularly those related to
maintaining an environmentally friendly environment, the system enables them to fulfill
their commitment to the community.
City Waste Management Committee. They will have the ability to track the
amount of trash in each trash can in real time. As a result, the garbage collection
schedule will be set up in advance, and supervision of the collection process will be
simple.
Residents. Through the system they can experience a clean and less polluted
neighborhood.
Environment. It helps promote a green environment.
Researchers. It enables them to build researchers who will benefit the community
to the fullest extent possible. Additionally, it improves their ability to build and develop
systems, particularly when it comes to subjects that were not covered in the classroom
but still need to be learned.
Future Researchers. This study would serve as their guide in developing and
enhancing studies relates to Solar-Based Waste Monitoring System: Developing A
Sensor System in Tracking Wastes Status in Trash Bins.

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Theoretical Framework (if only applicable)

This section discusses the theories and models other researchers have
already developed. The goal of a theoretical framework is to present and explain
this information.

There may be many different theories about your topic, so the theoretical
framework also involves evaluating, comparing, and selecting the most relevant
ones.

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 REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

Related Studies

This chapter discusses studies that are similar to the Solar-Powered Smart Bin
System with Real-Time Monitoring for Optimized Waste Management using Internet of
Things.
Internet of Things (IoT) has expanded greatly in recent years. Numerous socially
significant systems and applications have been developed by it, improving our quality of
life. Both urban and suburban living depend heavily on waste management and
collection systems. Thus, the researchers have already become aware of it. Enhancing
the trash cans and garbage collection system is a major project.

Tambekar et al. [8] developed a system that utilizes sensors and GSM module to
monitor garbage collection and disposal efficiencies and anomalies. Ultrasonic sensors
were installed at various fill levels in the bin, allowing the device to operate continuously
even in harsh conditions. A text message was sent to the waste management authorities
using the GSM module.

The smart garbage monitoring system of Yusof et al. [9] incorporates the use of
an Arduino Uno microcontroller along with ultrasonic sensors to detect the garbage
levels in bins. It also includes a GSM module for sending alerts to the municipality via
SMS. The system generates warning messages when the bins reach 70% and 90%
capacity.

Padal et al. [10] proposed a system where in there are multiple dust bins located
throughout the city and this dust bins are provided with low cost embedded devices.
Sensors are placed above the dust bin. It will detect whether the garbage is at low,
middle or highest level. The main control unit consist of arduino - it will receive the output
signal of sensor, process it and according to that it will send the message to office user.

Another IoT based smart waste management system was designed by Muniandy
et al. [11]. They used NodeMCU (the web-based IoT solution) and an ultrasonic sensor

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to create a wireless prototype device for real-time monitoring of the waste bin level. They
also provided a route optimization solution by using Dijkstra’s algorithm.

The "Smart Garbage Management System" is the title of this study. Jajoo et al.
[12] presents an observational study of a garbage bin using an Arduino Uno R3
controller, an ultrasonic sensor, and a Wi-Fi Model ESP8266, which connects the
Arduino to a Wi-Fi network and allows the Arduino to send and receive alert signals.
When the bin is ought to be full, the authority is alerted or notified.

In the study of Khan et al. [13], the Smart Waste Management System features a
Smart Bin with sensors and microcontroller. Utilizing Arduino UNO R3 and GSM
modules in the simulation setup, the system ensures real-time waste level detection. The
hardware design integrates components like Arduino microcontroller for seamless
operation. GSM communication enables notifications and data transmission to the
control unit for remote monitoring. The system's cost-effective and user-friendly design
focuses on simplicity and efficiency.

This research paper of Abba et al. [14] presents the design and implementation
of an internet of things (IoT) based Arduino microcontroller working with the ultrasonic
sensors that detects the level of waste in the garbage bin placed in garbage locations
and constantly at regular intervals display the status information as “filled”, “half-filled”, or
“empty”, as well as send the content level information at those intervals to a central web-
server system that displays the garbage bin levels graphically. This is achieved using a
microcontroller, a Wi-Fi module, and ultrasonic sensors.

Susila et al. suggest an Internet of Things (IoT) based smart garbage collection
and management system that, when the trash can is full or left unattended for longer
than three days, notifies the specified phone via GSM [15]. Due to the ability to just visit
the necessary bins, fuel costs and labor costs are greatly reduced for the waste
collection vehicles. However, this lacks a routing system for garbage collection.

The IoT-based smart garbage system of Karthik et al. [16] utilizes ultrasonic
sensors to detect waste levels in dustbins, with data transmitted via an ESP8266 Wi-Fi
module for monitoring. The system includes an LCD display to show remaining space, a

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PIC microcontroller for communication, LED indicators for status, and a power supply for
operation. Data is sent to a web server for analysis, enabling efficient waste
management and timely action to prevent overflowing bins.

The proposed system of Pavan et al. [17] makes use of a micro controller that is
made up of a web server, ultrasonic sensors, and a Wi-Fi system. Using a micro
controller with Wi-Fi technology, the bins are outfitted with ultrasonic sensors to detect
the waste level, and the data is transmitted to a server via the internet. The server keeps
an eye on the trash cans, which are dispersed throughout the city in various places.
Based on the waste level in the bin, the system alerts the garbage truck driver when the
garbage has to be removed. Based on all the information gathered from the bins, the
server uses the designated mobile number to send an SMS with a route for the driver.

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Synthesis

This is the summary of the related literature showing the gap and the need to
develop/improve a system.

Functionalities Proposed
Model
Fill-level
measurement
Notification System
Route Optimization
Solar-powered

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Conceptual Framework

This is an early phase of the design process, in which the broad outlines of the
function and form of something are articulated. It includes the design of interactions,
experiences, processes, and strategies. It involves an understanding of people's needs -
and how to meet them with products, services, & processes. Common artifacts of
conceptual design are concept sketches and models.

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 METHODOLOGY

Research Design

The research design refers to the overall strategy that you choose to integrate
the different components of the study coherently and logically, thereby, ensuring you will
effectively address the research problem; it constitutes the blueprint for the collection,
measurement, and analysis of data. Note that your research problem determines the
type of design you can use, not the other way around.

The different types of research design could be obtained from the link specified
here: (https://library.sacredheart.edu/c.php?g=29803&p=185902)

Respondents

Discuss the profile of the people whom you have invited for a survey to validate
the need for the system development or the people who evaluated the software. A copy
of the questionnaire must be included in the Appendices.
Data Gathering Instruments, Techniques, and Procedures

This section describes the instruments (interviews, questionnaires, surveys,

observation, experiments, or reports), techniques (face-to-face, online, mail, and/or
phone), and procedures for data gathering.

This section also documents for secondary data collection is referred to as the
gathering of second-hand data collected by an individual who is not the original user. It is
the process of collecting data that is already existing.
Statistical Tools (if only applicable)

This section includes proposed statistical tools used in planning, designing,

collecting data, analyzing, drawing relevant interpretations, and reporting research
findings throughout a research project. Examples include the F-test, the t-test, and
regression analysis, to name a few.

Analytical Tools

Use DFD, ERD, and any system flowchart/diagram for this section. The
discussion of these diagrams will be written in this section.
Technical Tools

This research develops a waste management monitoring system that monitors

the level of waste in a trash bin and tracking their location and timestamp their
movements by integrating GPS technology. The waste bin utilizes Ultrasonic sensors, a
Ublox NEO-6M GPS Module, an Arduino Uno – R3, a QuadBand GPRS-GSM SIM800L,
ESP8266-01 - Wifi Module, solar panel, jumper wires, breadboard, and power supply.
The Ultrasonic sensors are used to detect the level of waste in the bins. The Ublox NEO-
6M GPS Module is used to determine the exact location of the trash bins. The Arduino
Uno – R3 collects data from the sensors, processes it, and controls the communication
with the monitoring system and other components. QuadBand GPRS-GSM SIM800L
enables communication between the trash bins and the central monitoring system. The
ESP8266-01 - Wifi Module provides an alternative communication option by connecting
the system to local Wi-Fi networks. The solar panel provide the power needed to run the
monitoring system from the sunlight. Jumper wires or hookup wires are the way to go for
connections. Breadboard provides a platform for connecting and arranging sensors,
microcontrollers, and other electronic elements without soldering and the power supply
which provides electrical power to all components of the waste monitoring system.
Software Process Model

Agile methodology was employed in the development of the Solar-Based

Management System in order to help guarantee that software development projects are
finished effectively and efficiently, with an emphasis on satisfying user needs and
minimizing risk (such as bugs, cost overruns, and changing requirements) when adding
new functionality.
The agile methodology is a framework for project management that divides work
into many, flexible stages, or sprints. Iterative process characterizes the Agile
framework. Teams review and analyze their performance at the end of each sprint to
identify areas for improvement and modify their plan for the following sprint.
System Architecture

As seen in Figure 2, the physical architecture is divided into three primary

elements that span from a bin to the control station: the gateway, the control station, and
the smart bin. The tasks include gathering different bin condition data in real time,
sending the data via a gateway to the control station, and representing the data in an
easy-to-understand format so that the bin status can be tracked. The web-access
architecture of a distributed bin network serves as the foundation for the system.
Additionally, the web-based user interface for updated route presentation, bin status
monitoring, and user interaction with the system is hosted on the central server.
 References

[1] Gopal Krishna Shyam, Sunilkumar S. Manvi, and Priyanka Bharti. "Smart Waste
Management using Internet-of-Things (IoT)." In Proceedings of the 2017 2nd
International Conference on Computing and Communications Technologies (ICCCT),
July 2017.

[2] Vlad Gogoncea, Gabriel Murariu, and Lucian Georgescu. 2010. "The Use of Dijkstra's
Algorithm in Waste Management Problem." In The Annals of “Dunărea de Jos”
University of Galaţi, Fascicle V, Technologies in Machine Building, ISSN 1221-4566,
125. Faculty of Sciences, Physics, Chemistry and Environment Department, "Dunărea
de Jos" University of Galati, Romania.

[3] Maria, C.; Góis, J.; Leitão, A. Challenges, perspectives, of, greenhouse, gases,
emissions, from, municipal, solid, waste, management in Angola. Energy Rep. 2020, 6,
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[4] Venkiteela, L.K. Status and challenges of solid waste management in Tirupati city.
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[5] G. K. Shyam, S. S. Manvi, and P. Bharti. 2017. Smart waste management using
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Computing and Communications Technologies (ICCCT), DOI:
10.1109/iccct2.2017.7972276.

[6] Ramson, S.J.; Bhavanam, D.; Draksharam, S.; Kumar, R.; Moni, D.J.; Kirubaraj, A.A.
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[9] Norfadzlia Mohd Yusof, Aiman Zakwan Jidin, and Muhammad Izzat Rahim. 2017.
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[10] Christopher M. Padal, Mary Jean May L. Salado, and Noel Sobejana. 2019.
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[11] K. A. Muniandy, A. F. A. Nasir, N. H. Razak, A. Adam, and M. A. Zakaria, “Smart

Waste Management System (SWMS) based on Internet of Things (IoT),” in Symposium
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[12] Parth Jajoo, Akshata Mishra, Sushmit Mehta, and Vivek Solvande. 2018. Smart
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[13] A. A. Khan, A. A. Sajib, F. Shetu, S. Bari, M. S. R. Zishan, and K. Shikder. 2021.

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 Appendices

An appendix or appendices, if any, should be after the bibliography or

references. Appendices include original data, preliminary tests, tabulations, tables that
contain data of lesser importance, very lengthy quotations, forms and documents,
computer printouts and other pertinent documents. Appendices should be arranged
chronologically as they are cited in the main text. Use capital letters of the English
alphabet to track appendices, and always begin with the letter A. Remove this section
when adding the actual Appendix.
Appendix A
Gantt Chart
 Appendix B
Evaluation Tool
 Appendix C
Photo Documentation of Testing
 Appendix D
Flowchart/Diagrams
Appendix E
Algorithms
 Appendix F
Relevant Source Code
 Appendix G
Screenshot/Picture of the System
 Appendix H
Test Cases and Results
Appendix I
Bug Report
Appendix J
User Manual
 Appendix K
Curriculum Vitae
Note: 1 page per researcher