I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all those who provided guidance and support throughout the development of this ultrasonic car sensor project. First, I would like to thank my project supervisor, Dr Ashish Sachdeva, for their valuable insights, encouragement, and expert advice, which were essential in understanding the complexities of microcontroller- based embedded systems. Their mentorship has been invaluable in navigating the challenges encountered during this project.
I am also grateful to department of computer science and engineer , for providing the necessary resources and a supportive environment that enabled me to conduct this project successfully. Special thanks to the lab assistants and staff for their assistance with equipment and technical support.
Lastly, I would like to thank my family and friends for their encouragement, patience, and support during this project. Their understanding and motivation were instrumental in the successful completion of this work. This project has been a rewarding experience, and I am truly appreciative of everyone who contributed to it in one way or another.
I/We hereby declare that work presented in this project report entitled “Ultrasonic car sensor”, is an authentic record of our own work carried out at Manav Rachna University.
4 Abstract The ultrasonic car sensor system is designed as an embedded safety application that assists drivers in avoiding obstacles during parking or low-speed maneuvers. This system employs an 8051 microcontroller and ultrasonic sensors to detect objects in the vehicle’s path, calculate their distance, and alert the driver when they are within a potentially dangerous proximity. The project focuses on leveraging the 8051 microcontroller’s I/O capabilities and precise timing functions to drive an ultrasonic transceiver module that measures the distance to nearby objects by calculating the time delay between the emission and reflection of sound waves.
In operation, the ultrasonic sensor emits high-frequency sound pulses, which, upon striking an obstacle, reflect back to the sensor. The 8051 microcontroller accurately measures this echo time and uses it to compute the distance. The system then compares this distance to a pre-set safety threshold. If an object is detected within the threshold, the microcontroller triggers visual or auditory alerts, such as activating an LED or buzzer, to warn the driver. The system may also include an LCD display that provides real-time distance readings, enabling the driver to monitor proximity at a glance.
This project aims to enhance driver safety and reduce the likelihood of collisions, particularly in situations where the driver’s field of view is limited. Additionally, this solution offers an accessible, low-cost approach to automotive safety, suitable for integration in educational demonstrations, small-scale vehicles, or prototype testing environments. It showcases the applications of ultrasonic sensors in real-time systems and demonstrates core concepts in embedded system design, such as signal processing, sensor integration, and microcontroller programming. Through this project, users gain practical experience in building microcontroller-based systems for safety-critical applications, with potential extensions for multi-sensor systems that could offer 360-degree obstacle detection.
5 I. INTRODUCTION
With the increase in urbanization, the demand for safe and precise parking systems is greater than ever. Parking a vehicle in tight spaces poses challenges, and minor collisions while parking are common. These accidents, while usually low-impact, lead to unnecessary repair costs, inconvenience, and can even pose safety risks. The ultrasonic car sensor system aims to address these challenges by providing a reliable, real-time obstacle detection mechanism.
Ultrasonic sensors are well-suited for proximity detection in automotive applications due to their high accuracy and cost-efficiency. This project leverages an 8051 microcontroller to control ultrasonic sensors, process distance measurements, and alert the driver when an obstacle is detected within a predefined threshold. The use of an 8051 microcontroller makes the system scalable and modular for further enhancement, such as multi-sensor integration for full 360-degree detection.
The system not only serves as a low-cost alternative to commercially available parking sensors but also provides a valuable learning opportunity in understanding microcontroller- based embedded systems, sensor interfacing, and real-time signal processing.
II. REQUIRED COMPONENTS
A list of key components includes:
8051 Microcontroller: Manages timing, I/O control, and processing.
HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Sensor: Emits ultrasonic pulses and detects reflections to determine distance. Buzzer/LED Indicator: Alerts the driver of close obstacles. LCD Display (Optional): Shows real-time distance readings for precise feedback.
6 III. Collision Avoidance System Using Arduino Uno
Fig 1.4
This is a simple Arduino based Collision Avoidance System. It is also known as
Forward Collision Warning System. Basically ,it is an advanced driver- assistance system designed to prevent or reduce the severity of a collision. It will continuously monitors the distance between the vehicles/objects in front of it , so that it can provide warning to the driver if the vehicles get too close.
7 Step 1 : Components Required
5 More Images Fig 1.5
1.Controllers : Arduino UNO
2.Sensor : HCSR04 Ultrasonic sensor
3.Piezo Buzzer : For providing sound
4.Three LEDs(RED,YELLOW,GREEN)
5.Three Resistors(1k)
6.DC Motor
7.Few jumper wires for connection
8.Breadboard
8 Step 2 : Circuit Design and Connections
Fig 1.6
Fig 1.7
9 Now it's time to connect all the components to Arduino through wires!
Ultrasonic sensor(HCSR04) to Arduino Uno
VCC pin of Ultrasonic sensor is connected to 5V power supply of Arduino.
GND pin of Ultrasonic sensor is connected to GND pin of Arduino. TRIG pin of Ultrasonic sensor is connected to 7th pin of Arduino. ECHO pin of Ultrasonic sensor is connected to 4th pin of Arduino.
LED connections : It has two pins Anode(longer leg) and Cathode(shorter leg).
Green LED : Connect anode to resistor and then to 13th pin of Arduino. Connect cathode to GND of Arduino.
Yellow LED : Connect anode to resistor and then to 12th pin of Arduino. Connect cathode to GND of Arduino. Red LED : Connect anode to resistor and then to 2nd pin of Arduino. Connect cathode to GND of Arduino.
Buzzer
Positive terminal of buzzer is connected to pin-10 on Arduino.
Negative terminal is to GND of Arduino.
DC Motor
It has two terminals.
Connect one terminal to pin-6 on Arduino and another one to GND of Arduino.
Step 3 : Arduino Sketch
const int trigPin = 7;
const int echoPin = 4;
int buzz = 10;
long duration;
int distance;
10 void setup()
pinMode(trigPin, OUTPUT);
pinMode(echoPin, INPUT);
pinMode(13, OUTPUT);
pinMode(12, OUTPUT);
pinMode(2, OUTPUT);
pinMode(6, OUTPUT);
Serial.begin(9600);
void loop()
digitalWrite(trigPin, LOW);
delayMicroseconds(2);
digitalWrite(trigPin, HIGH);
delayMicroseconds(10);
digitalWrite(trigPin, LOW);
duration = pulseIn(echoPin, HIGH);
distance= duration*0.034/2;
if (distance >= 20)
digitalWrite(6, HIGH);
else
digitalWrite (6, LOW);
11 if (distance >= 100)
digitalWrite(13, HIGH);
else
digitalWrite(13,LOW);
if(distance < 100 && distance >= 50)
digitalWrite(12, HIGH);
delay(400);
digitalWrite(12, LOW); delay(400);
else
digitalWrite(12, LOW);
if(distance < 50 && distance >= 20)
digitalWrite(2, HIGH);
delay(600);
digitalWrite(2, LOW);
delay(600);
digitalWrite(buzz, HIGH);
tone(buzz, 2000);
delay(400);
12 noTone(buzz);
delay(100);
tone(buzz, 2000);
delay(400);
noTone(buzz);
delay(50);
tone(buzz, 2000);
delay(400);
noTone(buzz);
delay(50);
tone(buzz, 2000);
delay(400);
noTone(buzz);
delay(50); }
else
digitalWrite(2, LOW);
This is the code we used to program our Arduino Uno. You can change the pin connection(Input/Output) if you want. But you have to change the pin number and connection in your code according to the changes that you've made. Otherwise just copy and paste this code in Arduino IDE.
13 Step 4 : Working of the Circuit We already discussed about the circuit connection and required code for our project. Make those necessary circuit connection and upload the given code to the Arduino using Arduino IDE. Now let's see about the working of our circuit.
It has four different zones.
Zone 1 : No Warning(Safe zone)
Zone 2 : Visual Warning
Zone 3 : Visual and Audible Warning(Need to pay attention)
Zone 4 : Auxiliary brake
Zone 1 :
When the distance between the object in front of the Ultrasonic sensor is greater than 100cm then no warning will be provided. Only green colour LED will glow and motor will run, indicating that object is at a safe distance.
Zone 2 :
If the distance between the object in front of the sensor is between 100-50cm ,then yellow colour LED will start blinking. This indicates that "Object is approaching". Motor will continue to run.
Zone 3 :
If the distance get reduced between 50-20cm ,then red colour LED will start blinking. In addition to that a beep sound is also provided by the buzzer. Driver needs to respond in this situation. In spite of the warning, the motor will continue to run.
Zone 4 :
This is the last zone. Here, if the distance between the object is even get reduced to less than 20cm ,then the motor will automatically stop functioning.
Step 5 : Test the Setup
This is the hardware working of this project. I haven't added the motor . If you want you can add the motors also. I have already provided the connections and code for motor in step 2 & 3.
14 IV. Applications of the Car Parking Sensor
Reverse Parking Assistant
Imagine you're in a crowded parking lot, and you need to reverse park. This sensor can be a game-changer. By mounting the ultrasonic sensor on the back bumper, you can get real-time audio feedback on the distance to any obstacles behind you. This way, as you reverse, the system emits sound signals that increase in frequency the closer you get to an object, helping you park without risking scratches or bumps. For added accuracy, you could even use multiple sensors positioned on the sides and back of the vehicle, offering a full perspective on nearby objects when reversing. Home Garage Parking System For those who have tight garage spaces, a wall-mounted sensor can be a lifesaver. Mount the sensor on the back wall where you park, so it activates when the car approaches. As you pull in, the sensor detects how close the car is getting to the wall or any items stored in the garage. A loud buzzer, mounted on the garage wall, will warn you to stop at the perfect parking distance. You could even integrate colored LEDs (e.g., green for safe, yellow for caution, red for stop) that light up sequentially as you get closer, providing a clear, visual parking guide. Trailer Parking Aid Parking with a trailer attached is notoriously challenging due to blind spots and the extra length. Mounting a sensor on the back of the trailer can provide feedback that’s relayed to the driver’s cabin. You could use a wireless RF or Bluetooth module to transmit the distance data from the trailer sensor to an LED display or speaker in the car, which lets you know when you’re nearing an obstacle. With this setup, the trailer practically becomes an extension of the vehicle’s own senses, making backing up a trailer much less stressful. Bicycle and Motorcycle Parking This system isn’t just for cars! In a tight storage area or a packed garage, parking a bike or motorcycle can benefit from similar distance guidance. The sensor can be mounted near the front wheel or the handlebar area to detect obstacles. Instead of a loud buzzer, you might opt for a gentle chime or a small LED light that changes color, so as not to disrupt the household or disturb neighbors. Warehouse or Factory Application Imagine a busy warehouse with forklifts moving in and out. Adding this system to forklifts or even installing it near narrow passageways can improve safety by helping operators know how close they are to objects. You could also mount the sensor on walls or shelving units in tight warehouse areas to guide forklifts as they maneuver. With a louder buzzer and perhaps a flashing LED, operators get clear alerts when they’re approaching hazardous objects. Smartphone Integration For an advanced setup, you could integrate Bluetooth to send sensor data to a smartphone app. This way, instead of relying only on sound alerts, the driver can look at their phone to get a visual indicator of how close they are to an obstacle. Imagine a display showing colored zones (green, yellow, red) or even the exact distance in centimeters or inches. This could be especially useful for car owners who like tech- savvy solutions.
15 V. CONCLUSION The ultrasonic car sensor system developed in this project demonstrates an effective, low-cost solution for enhancing vehicle safety during parking and low-speed maneuvers. Using the 8051 microcontroller and the HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor, the system reliably detects obstacles within close range and alerts the driver through clear visual and audio signals. This setup not only prevents minor collisions but also reduces stress and guesswork for drivers in tight parking spaces.
The system showcases the practical application of microcontrollers in real-time distance
measurement and sensor integration, making it suitable for small-scale automotive applications, educational purposes, and prototyping. Furthermore, it opens up possibilities for further enhancements, such as multi-sensor arrays for 360-degree coverage and temperature sensors for more accurate distance calculations. Overall, this project highlights how embedded systems can make meaningful contributions to everyday safety, offering a valuable learning experience in electronics, programming, and system design.
16 VI. References 1. "The 8051 Microcontroller and Embedded Systems: Using Assembly and C" - by Muhammad Ali Mazidi, Janice Gillispie Mazidi, and Rolin D. McKinlay o Covers programming of the 8051 microcontroller, which can be useful for handling sensor input in parking systems. 2. "Embedded Systems: Introduction to ARM Cortex-M Microcontrollers" - by Jonathan W. Valvano o Introduces ARM Cortex microcontrollers, which offer a more powerful platform if you want to scale up from 8051-based systems. 3. "Ultrasonic Transducers: Materials and Design for Sensors, Actuators and Medical Applications" - Edited by K Nakamura o Discusses the design and properties of ultrasonic transducers, critical for understanding how they function in a parking sensor context.
4. "Automobile Parking Assistant System Using Ultrasonic Sensor"
o Provides insights into the application of ultrasonic sensors in vehicle parking assistance, including common issues and best practices for sensor calibration. 5. "Ultrasonic Sensor Applications in Parking Assistance Systems" o Explores various ultrasonic sensor setups and placement strategies to optimize obstacle detection in parking systems. 6. "Development of Microcontroller-Based Ultrasonic Distance Measurement Systems" o Describes the process of setting up microcontroller-based distance measurement with ultrasonic sensors, including programming and accuracy considerations. 7. "Research and Implementation of Auto Parking System Based on Ultrasonic Sensors" (IEEE) o Examines challenges and solutions in implementing auto-parking systems using ultrasonic sensors, covering sensor precision, calibration, and real-time response. 8. "Arduino Uno-Powered Parking Guidance System with Ultrasonic Sensors" (IEEE) o Focuses on hardware design and programming for a parking guidance system based on the Arduino Uno microcontroller and ultrasonic sensors. 9. "Car Parking Distance Controller Using Ultrasonic Sensors Based on Arduino Uno" - Journal of Robotics and Control (JRC) o Presents a project using ultrasonic sensors and an Arduino Uno to measure safe parking distances, highlighting testing techniques for different distance scenarios
ResearchGate
10. Professional Trends in Industrial and Systems Engineering (PTISE)
o Details an intelligent parking system that leverages multiple ultrasonic sensors and an Arduino controller to detect parking spaces and assist with autonomous parking maneuvers
ResearchGate
11. 8051 Microcontroller Tutorial on TutorialsPoint
Link
Provides foundational knowledge of the 8051 microcontroller, which can be adapted for managing ultrasonic sensor data.
17 12. Basics of Ultrasonic Sensors on Digi-Key Link
Offers a comprehensive overview of ultrasonic sensors, including how they work and typical applications, relevant for understanding sensor behavior in parking systems.
13. Interfacing Ultrasonic Sensor with 8051 Microcontroller on Circuit Digest
Link
Walkthrough for connecting and programming an ultrasonic sensor with the 8051 microcontroller, useful for beginners.
