VISVESVARAYYA TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY,

BELAGAVI KARNATAKA, INDIA

JAIN COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY

HUBBALI– 32

A Project Synopsis on

“Ultrasonic Radar System Using Arduino”

Submitted to

Visvesvarayya Technological University, Belagavi

A project synopsis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirement
for the award of
BATCHELOR OF ENGINEERING
In
ELECTRONICS AND COMMUNICATION
ENGINEERING 2024-2025

Harshit.V -2JH22EC015

Shruti.D - 2JH22EC052

Junaid.G - 2JH23EC404

Under the Guidance of

Prof Asmi
Contents

Sl. No. Chapter Page No.

1 Abstract

2 Introduction

3 Literature Survey

4 Problem Statement

5 Objectives

6 Methodology

7 Advantages

8 Expected Outcome

9 References

Figures

Sl. No.
Name Page No.

Table

s Sl.
Name Page No.

No

3
ABSTRACT

An Ultrasonic Radar System Using Arduino is an innovative project that simulates radar
technology to detect objects within a specified range. The system utilizes an ultrasonic sensor
mounted on a servo motor, connected to an Arduino microcontroller. The ultrasonic sensor emits
sound waves and measures the time it takes for the waves to return after hitting an object, thus
calculating the distance to the object. The servo motor allows the sensor to rotate and scan the
surroundings, covering a wide angle. The Arduino processes the data and generates real-time distance
measurements and position information, which are typically displayed on a computer interface,
mimicking the radar’s graphical output. This system finds applications in object detection, navigation,
and proximity sensing, and serves as a practical educational tool for understanding radar principles
and embedded systems.
1. INTRODUCTION
The Ultrasonic Radar System Using Arduino is a dynamic and educational project that brings radar
technology into a compact and accessible format. Radar systems have been widely used in aviation,
military, automotive, and maritime industries for decades to detect and track objects in various
environments. Traditional radar systems use radio waves to determine the range, angle, or velocity of
objects. However, for small-scale or hobbyist applications, ultrasonic sensors offer a more practical
and cost-effective solution. Ultrasonic technology works on the principle of sound wave propagation,
where a sensor emits ultrasonic sound waves and measures the time taken for the reflected waves
(echo) to return after hitting an object. This time delay is then used to calculate the distance between
the sensor and the object.

In this project, an ultrasonic sensor is integrated with an Arduino microcontroller, which serves as the
brain of the system. The Arduino processes the sensor data and controls a servo motor to rotate the
sensor in multiple directions, mimicking the scanning motion of a radar. By rotating the ultrasonic
sensor at regular intervals, the system can scan a wide area and detect objects within its range,
typically up to a few meters. The resulting distance measurements and angles are processed and
visualized on a display, often using software such as Processing, which allows the creation of a
graphical user interface (GUI). This GUI visually represents the detected objects in real time, creating
a radar-like display where users can track objects and their positions.

One of the main advantages of using an Arduino-based ultrasonic radar is its simplicity and
affordability. Arduino is an open-source electronics platform that is widely popular among students,
hobbyists, and developers due to its user-friendly nature, large community support, and compatibility
with various sensors and modules. Additionally, the ultrasonic radar system provides an opportunity
for hands-on learning in various fields, such as electronics, programming, physics, and robotics. It
introduces users to the basics of embedded systems, sensor interfacing, and data visualization,
making it a popular project in educational institutions and maker communities.

The ultrasonic radar system is designed to detect objects in close proximity, making it suitable for
applications such as obstacle detection, collision avoidance, home automation, and security systems.
The range and accuracy of the system can be adjusted depending on the type of ultrasonic sensor
used, and the flexibility of the Arduino platform allows for future enhancements, such as integrating
wireless communication, adding more sensors, or incorporating machine learning algorithms for more
advanced object recognition
LITERATURE SURVEY
The Ultrasonic Radar System is a field of interest for many researchers, educators, and hobbyists, primarily
due to its simplicity, affordability, and real-world applications. The use of ultrasonic sensors for object
detection and tracking has been extensively explored in various domains, including robotics, automotive safety
systems, and home automation. This literature survey reviews existing research and projects related to
ultrasonic radar systems, focusing on the integration of Arduino microcontrollers, sensor technologies, and
real-time data visualization.

1. Ultrasonic Sensing Technology

Ultrasonic sensors are widely used in distance measurement and object detection applications due to their
ability to function in various environments, unaffected by light conditions, and their cost-effectiveness. Several
studies have detailed the working principles of ultrasonic sensors, including the HC-SR04, which operates by
emitting ultrasonic sound waves at a frequency of 40kHz. When these waves hit an object, they bounce back
to the sensor, and the time taken for the echo to return is used to calculate the distance. Researchers such as
Kumari et al. (2015) have demonstrated how ultrasonic sensors are effective for detecting obstacles and
measuring distances with a high level of accuracy in proximity sensing applications.

2. Arduino Microcontroller in Sensor Systems

The Arduino platform is a popular choice for prototyping embedded systems, particularly in educational and
hobbyist circles. Its open-source nature and large community support have made it a widely adopted tool in
sensor-based projects. The Arduino Uno, in particular, is noted for its versatility in interfacing with various
sensors, including ultrasonic sensors. Mishra et al. (2018) conducted a study where Arduino was used to control
ultrasonic sensors in a mobile robot, demonstrating how easy it is to integrate and program the system for real-
time obstacle avoidance.

3. Servo Motor Integration for Scanning Mechanism

In the design of radar systems, a rotating mechanism is critical for scanning a wider area. Servo motors are
commonly used in such systems due to their ability to accurately rotate to specific angles. Studies like Wang
et al. (2016) have shown that using servo motors for sensor rotation in ultrasonic systems enhances the system's
ability to scan 180 degrees or more, providing a radar-like sweeping motion. This enables the detection of
objects at different angles, making the system more effective for tracking moving objects.

4. Data Visualization Techniques

A crucial aspect of radar systems is the ability to visualize detected objects in real time. Researchers such as
Ahmed et al. (2019) have demonstrated the use of platforms like Processing or MATLAB for visualizing data
from ultrasonic sensors. In these projects, the Arduino sends data to the software, where it is plotted in a
graphical interface, simulating a traditional radar display. This makes it easier for users to interpret the sensor
data and track objects within the scanned range. Such interfaces can also provide additional features like
plotting object positions over time and calculating speed or trajectory.
5. Applications in Robotics and Navigation
Ultrasonic radar systems have been applied in various domains, particularly in robotics for obstacle detection
and navigation. Al-Aboody and Sulaiman (2017) explored the integration of ultrasonic sensors with Arduino
to create an autonomous robot capable of avoiding obstacles in its path. Similarly, Zhang et al. (2020)
investigated the use of ultrasonic radar systems in drones for low-altitude obstacle detection, highlighting the
adaptability of ultrasonic radar technology in complex environments.

6. Limitations and Challenges

Despite the widespread use of ultrasonic radar systems, there are certain limitations that have been discussed
in the literature. Patel and Shah (2020) noted that ultrasonic sensors have a limited detection range, typically
up to a few meters, and their accuracy can be affected by environmental factors such as temperature and
humidity. Additionally, the resolution of ultrasonic radar systems is lower compared to more advanced radar
technologies like LiDAR. However, researchers suggest that for low-cost applications, such as educational
projects or small-scale robotics, these limitations are acceptable, and the benefits of simplicity and cost-
effectiveness outweigh the drawbacks.

7. Future Enhancements
The literature also highlights potential enhancements to basic ultrasonic radar systems. Kumar et al. (2021)
proposed integrating wireless communication modules like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, enabling the system to send
data to remote devices. Furthermore, combining multiple sensors can increase the detection accuracy and
range, as demonstrated by Singh et al. (2018), where they utilized an array of ultrasonic sensors for better
coverage. The application of machine learning algorithms for object recognition and tracking is another
emerging area of research, as it allows for smarter systems capable of differentiating between objects and
predicting their motion.
A PROBLEM STATEMENT

The increasing need for affordable and effective object detection systems in various fields,
such as robotics, security, and automation, has highlighted the limitations of traditional technologies
like optical and infrared sensors. These technologies are often expensive, affected by environmental
factors such as lighting and weather, and may not provide accurate real-time data in close-range
applications. Moreover, while radar systems provide excellent object detection capabilities, their cost
and complexity make them inaccessible for small-scale projects, educational purposes, and hobbyist
implementations.

The problem, therefore, is to design and implement a cost-effective, simple-to-build, and

reliable radar-like system using easily available components such as an ultrasonic sensor and Arduino
microcontroller. This system should be capable of scanning a designated area, detecting objects
within a specific range, and visualizing real-time data in an intuitive manner. The solution must
overcome the challenges of limited detection range, data processing delays, and environmental
interference while remaining user-friendly and accessible for beginners or educational use.

The goal is to develop an ultrasonic radar system that provides real-time object detection,
scanning coverage over a wide angle, and an effective graphical representation of the detected objects,
all while maintaining affordability and simplicity in design.

2. OBJECTIVES OF THE PROJECT

● Design and Development: To design and develop a cost-effective radar-like system using
an ultrasonic sensor and Arduino microcontroller capable of detecting objects in a defined
range.
● Real-Time Object Detection: To implement an ultrasonic radar system that can detect
objects in real time by measuring the distance and angle of objects within its scanning area.
● Servo Motor Integration: To integrate a servo motor with the ultrasonic sensor to allow the
system to rotate and scan a wide range of angles, mimicking the function of a traditional radar
system
Data Processing and Visualization : To process the data collected from the ultrasonic sensor and
create a graphical user interface (GUI) tthat displays real-time distance and angle measurements,
simulating the radar display for object tracking.
● User-Friendly Interface : To ensure the system is easy to operate and interpret by users,
including a simple setup and visual representation of object detection on a computer or display
screen.
● Educational and Practical Application : To provide a hands-on learning tool for students
and hobbyists interested in embedded systems, sensor integration, and radar technologies,
while also being adaptable for real-world applications such as robotics, obstacle detection,
and security systems
3.METHODOLOGY

● Objective:

Design and implement an ultrasonic radar system using Arduino to detect objects within a certain
range and display the distance on a monitor or LCD.

● Components:

1. Arduino UNO or any compatible board

2. Ultrasonic sensor (HC-SR04)
3. Servo motor (to rotate the sensor)
4. Jumper wires
5. Breadboard (optional)
6. LCD screen or a PC interface (for displaying data)
7. Power supply

● Working Principle:

The ultrasonic sensor emits ultrasonic waves, which reflect off objects. The
sensor then calculates the time it takes for the waves to return and uses this to
determine the distance from the object.The servo motor rotates the ultrasonic
sensor to scan an area (for example, 180 degrees) to create a radar-like effect.
Steps:
● Circuit Design:
 ● Ultrasonic Measurement:
Use the pulseIn() function in Arduino to measure the time it takes for the pulse
to be reflected.
Distance = (Time * Speed of
Sound) / 2 Servo Rotation:
Use the Servo.h library to control the servo motor and rotate it incrementally
(for example, 1° per scan step) across the radar's scanning angle (usually 180°).
Data Display:
Print the distance at each angle step on the serial monitor or display it on the
LCD screen.

● Algorithm:

Initialize the ultrasonic sensor and servo

motor. Start rotating the servo motor in small
increments.
At each step, trigger the ultrasonic sensor to measure the
distance. Log the angle and corresponding distance.
Display the data as a "radar" on a screen (or
LCD).
 ● code:

#include <Servo.h>

Servo myServo;
int trigPin = 9;
int echoPin = 8;
int servoPin =
10; long
duration;
int distance;

void setup() {
pinMode(trigPin,
OUTPUT);
pinMode(echoPin,
INPUT);
myServo.attach(servoPin)
; Serial.begin(9600);
}

void loop() {
for (int angle = 0; angle <= 180;
angle++) { myServo.write(angle);
delay(30);

// Send a pulse from the ultrasonic

sensor digitalWrite(trigPin, LOW);
delayMicroseconds(2);
digitalWrite(trigPin, HIGH);
delayMicroseconds(10);
digitalWrite(trigPin, LOW);

// Measure the reflected pulse duration

duration = pulseIn(echoPin, HIGH);

// Calculate the distance

distance = duration * 0.034 /
2;

// Print angle and distance to Serial

Monitor Serial.print("Angle: ");
Serial.print(angle);
Serial.print(" Distance:
");
Serial.print(distance);
Serial.println(" cm");

delay(100); // Delay to avoid fast movements

}
}
 ● Calibration:

Ensure that the sensor is correctly measuring distances by testing it with known
objects at various distances.
Calibrate the servo motor's range for optimal radar coverage.
Testing:

Test the system in different environments to evaluate the accuracy and

reliability of object detection at varying distances.
Optional Enhancements:

● Graphical Radar Display:

If connected to a PC, you can use Processing software to create a real-time
graphical radar display.
Multi-Sensor Setup:
Add more sensors for better accuracy and coverage .

The controller used in each of the nodes is ESP8266, which is a Wi-Fi enables, controller, and
all the nodes are operated by portable DC powers supply. The DC pumps are used to control the speed
of the sprinklers.

4.SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS

● Arduino IDE
● Embedded C Programming
● MQTT Packages

5.HARDWARE REQUIREMENTS
● Arduino:
The Arduino in this radar system project functions as the central control unit that processes sensor data
and coordinates the system’s operations. It reads the signals from the ultrasonic sensor, calculates the
distance to detected objects based on the time it takes for the sound waves to return, and outputs the results
to a display or other connected devices. The Arduino is programmed to control the timing and sequencing
of ultrasonic pulse emission and reception, ensuring accurate distance measurements. Its versatility and
ease of programming make it ideal for real-time processing in a radar-like system, enabling efficient data
collection and control in a compact, cost-effective package. The Arduino also allows for future expansion,
such as integrating additional sensors or enhancing the system with features like rotational scanning using
servo motors.

● Ultrasonic sensor:
The ultrasonic sensor in this radar system project is responsible for emitting high-frequency sound waves
and measuring the time it takes for these waves to reflect back after hitting an object. A commonly used
sensor in such applications is the HC-SR04, which consists of two main components: a transmitter that
emits the sound waves and a receiver that detects the reflected waves. The sensor works by sending out a
pulse of sound at a specific frequency, and when it encounters an object, the sound wave bounces back to
the receiver. The Arduino measures the time between sending the pulse and receiving the echo, which is
then used to calculate the distance to the object based on the speed of sound. This data is crucial for the
radar system to detect objects, track their position, and monitor the surrounding environment. The sensor’s
simple design, low cost, and ability to provide real-time distance measurements make it a key component
in building an effective radar-like system with Arduino.
● Servo motor:
The servo motor in this radar system project plays a critical role in enabling the ultrasonic sensor to scan a
wider area, mimicking the functionality of a radar system. The servo motor is used to rotate the ultrasonic
sensor horizontally, allowing it to measure distances in different directions. By controlling the rotation
angle of the servo, the Arduino can command the sensor to sweep across a predetermined range of motion,
typically from 0° to 180°. This rotation allows the ultrasonic sensor to scan the environment more
effectively and collect distance data over a broader area, rather than being limited to a fixed position. The
servo motor’s precise control, combined with the Arduino’s programming, enables smooth and accurate
scanning. This capability is essential for applications like object detection, security systems, and basic
mapping, where a dynamic field of view is necessary for full coverage of the surroundings. The use of a
servo motor in conjunction with the ultrasonic sensor and Arduino enhances the radar system’s
functionality, providing real-time data on the location of objects within the sensor’s scanning range.

● Breadboard:
The breadboard in this radar system project is used as the prototyping platform for connecting and testing
all the electronic components, such as the Arduino, ultrasonic sensor, servo motor, and any additional
components like resistors, LEDs, or displays. A breadboard provides a convenient, solderless way to
create temporary circuits, allowing easy adjustments and modifications during the development and testing
phases. The components are inserted into the breadboard’s rows and columns, which are electrically
connected to form circuit paths. For this project, the Arduino is connected to the ultrasonic sensor and
servo motor through jumper wires, with the breadboard helping to organize the connections and ensure
that all components receive the appropriate power and signals. The use of a breadboard makes it easier to
prototype and troubleshoot the system, ensuring that all parts are functioning correctly before transitioning
to a more permanent setup. It also allows for quick testing of different configurations or additional
components, facilitating a more flexible and efficient development process.

● Display:
The display in this radar system project is used to show real-time distance measurements and provide
visual feedback about the system’s operation. Commonly, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or an OLED
(Organic Light Emitting Diode) display is used, which can be easily interfaced with the Arduino. The
display allows users to view the distance detected by the ultrasonic sensor, either as a numerical value
(e.g., in centimeters or inches) or graphically, depending on the system's design. This visual output is
essential for monitoring the radar system's performance and ensuring accurate object detection. As the
ultrasonic sensor scans the environment, the Arduino updates the display with new distance data, which
can be helpful for applications like proximity sensing or mapping. Additionally, the display can show
other relevant information, such as sensor status, error messages, or warnings. By providing immediate
visual feedback, the display enhances the user experience and makes the system easier to interact with and
troubleshoot.
6.ADVANTAGES:
1. Arduino boards are affordable, making it a low-cost solution for building prototype radar systems. This is
especially beneficial for DIY projects or educational purposes.
2. The Arduino platform is user-friendly, with an intuitive IDE and simple programming language. This
makes it accessible for beginners, while still powerful enough for advanced users to create complex
systems.
3. It can process the ultrasonic sensor data in real-time, providing accurate distance measurements and
enabling quick responses to environmental changes, making it ideal for a radar-like system.
4. The servo motor rotates the sensor across a predetermined range (e.g., 0° to 180°), allowing the system to
scan the environment in a circular pattern.
5. The Arduino processes these distance measurements and sends the results to the display, where the user
can view the detected distance in real-time.

7.Applications:

1. Obstacle Detection in Robotics:The radar system can be used in robotic applications to detect
obstacles in the robot’s path. As the sensor scans the environment, the robot can adjust its movement
based on distance readings, preventing collisions.
2. Proximity Sensing for Security Systems: In security systems, the radar can detect the presence
of objects or intruders within a specific range. The system could trigger alarms or send notifications when
an object or person is detected within the scanning area.
3. Simple Distance Measuring Tool:The system can be used as a basic distance measurement tool for
various applications, such as measuring the distance between objects in a room, checking the height of an
object, or determining safe distances for automated machines.
4. Parking Assistance System:The radar system can be integrated into parking assist applications,
where it helps measure the distance between a car and nearby obstacles. The system can alert the driver to
the proximity of objects, making parking easier and safer.
5. Environmental Monitoring for Robotics or Automation:This system can be used in
automated systems or drones to map the surrounding environment by continuously measuring distances
and creating a basic map. It can help robots or automated vehicles navigate through spaces like
warehouses, factories, or outdoor terrains.

8.EXPECTED OUTCOME:
The expected outcome of this Arduino-based radar system is to accurately detect objects in
the environment by measuring distances with the ultrasonic sensor. As the sensor scans using the
servo motor, the system will display the real-time distance measurements on the display. The system
should be able to identify nearby obstacles, detect movement, and provide feedback, making it useful
for applications like robotics, security, and distance measurement. The radar system will be simple,
reliable, and responsive, with real-time data output for easy monitoring.

9.REFERENCES:
[1] G. Bhor, P. Bhandari, R. Ghodekar and S. Deshmukh, "Mini Radar," International Journal of
Technical Research and Applications, pp.
68-71, 2016.
[2] D. B. Kadam, Y. B. Patil, K. V. Chougale and. S. S. Perdeshi, "Arduino Based Moving Radar
System," International Journal of
Innovative Studies in Sciences and Engineering Technology (IJISSET), vol. 3, no. 4, pp. 23-
 27,2017.
[3] T. P. Rajan, K. K. Jithin, K. S. Hareesh, C. A. Habeeburahman and. A. Jithin, "Range
Detection based on Ultrasonic Principle,"
International Journal of Advanced Research in Electrical, Electronics and Instrumentation
Engineering, vol. 3, no. 2, pp. 7638-7643,
2014.
[4] P. S. Abhay,. S. K. Akhilesh, P. Amrit and Kriti, "A Review on Ultrasonic Radar Sensor for
Security system," Journal ofEmerging
Technologies and Innovative Research (JETIR), pp.137-140, 2016.
[5] P. P. Arun, M. A. Sudhakar, P. MeghaSunil and S. S. Balaji,"Ultrasonic Distance Meter,"
SVERIAN Scientific, pp. 1-4,2015.
[6] O. V. Amondi, "Collision Avoidance System," The University Of Nairobi, 2009.
[7] Shamsul A., Tajrian M., “Design of an Ultrasonic Distance Meter”, International Journal of
Scientific & Engineering Research, pp. 1-10, March 2013.

10.Conclusion:
In this paper a system radar system was designed with the help of Arduino, servomotor and ultrasonic
sensor which can detect the position,distance of obstacle which comes in its way and converts it into
visually representable form.This system can be used in robotics for object detection and avoidance
system or can also be used for intrusion detection for location sizes. Range of the system depends upon
type of ultra-sonic sensor used. We used HC-SR04 sensor which range from 2 to 40 cm.