INDUSTRIAL INTERNET OF THINGS

(22CIC07)
ASSIGNMENT – 1

Project Title: Soil Moisture

Detection System

Team Name: KBSC

Team Members:
C Brindha (160122749007)
P Srija (160122749018)
P Krithika (160122749019)
T Chaithra (160122749025)
Date: 20th Aug 2024

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INTRODUCTION

Overview of the Project

Soil moisture detection is an essential aspect of modern agriculture
and environmental monitoring. The project aims to design and
implement a system that can accurately measure the moisture content
in soil and provide real-time data to farmers or researchers. This
information can help optimize irrigation, improve crop yields, and
conserve water by ensuring that the soil maintains the appropriate
moisture levels.

Objectives
● To develop a reliable soil moisture detection system using
sensors that can accurately measure soil moisture levels in real-
time.
● To create a system that can alert users when the soil moisture
levels fall below or exceed the optimal range.
● To integrate the system with a user-friendly interface that can
display data and provide actionable insights for effective water
management.
● To evaluate the effectiveness of the system in different soil types
and environmental conditions.

Problem Statement
Water is essential for agriculture, and using it wisely is key to
sustainable farming. However, traditional irrigation techniques often
lead to either overwatering or underwatering, both of which can harm
crops and waste valuable water resources. To tackle this issue, there
is a pressing need for a system that can continuously monitor soil
moisture levels and deliver real-time data to inform better irrigation
practices. The proposed soil moisture detection system aims to solve
this problem by ensuring precise water management, which not only
boosts crop health but also helps conserve water.

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EXISTING SYSYEM

Description of the Current System

 Traditional soil moisture detection systems typically involve
intricate and costly setups, featuring components such as LCD
screens, automated watering mechanisms, and sophisticated
microcontrollers. While these systems are capable of delivering
detailed data and automated responses, their complexity and
expense can make them difficult for beginners to implement.
 Most of these existing systems are geared towards large-scale
agricultural operations or advanced gardening setups, where
precise moisture control and automated irrigation are essential.
However, they often demand skills like soldering, programming,
and access to specialized parts, making them less accessible to
those new to the field.

Limitations and Issues with the Existing System

● High Cost: The use of components like LCD screens and
automated watering systems significantly drives up the cost,
making these setups less affordable for hobbyists and small-
scale gardeners.
● Technical Complexity: The requirement for soldering,
programming, and integrating various components can be
overwhelming for beginners or those with limited technical skills.
● Over-Engineering: For simple tasks, such as monitoring the
moisture level of a single plant, these systems often offer more
features than necessary, resulting in an overly complex solution.
● Limited Flexibility: Many existing systems are tailored for
specific environments or plant types, making them less
adaptable to varying soil conditions or different kinds of plants.

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PROPOSED PROTOTYPE

Description of the New Prototype

 The proposed Soil Moisture Detection Prototype offers a budget-
friendly and simple approach to monitoring soil moisture levels.
It’s perfect for individuals without advanced technical skills who
need an easy way to ensure their plants are properly watered.
 This system relies on a soil moisture sensor that measures the
moisture content in the soil and sends this information to an
Arduino microcontroller. The Arduino processes the data and
provides instant feedback using LEDs and a buzzer, making it
easy for users to understand when action is needed.
 The design emphasizes simplicity by avoiding costly components
like LCD screens or automated watering systems. Instead, it
focuses on essential features that are both effective and
accessible, ensuring a user-friendly experience.

Innovations and Improvements over the Existing System

 Cost-Effectiveness: By removing unnecessary components, the
prototype dramatically reduces the overall cost, making it
accessible to a wider audience.
 Simplicity: The system is easy to build and operate, with no
soldering required. The use of male-to-male wires and a
screwable pin terminal on the moisture sensor simplifies
assembly.
 Immediate Feedback: The system uses LEDs to indicate
moisture levels in real-time (Red for 0-30%, Yellow for 30-60%,
and Green for 60%+). Additionally, a buzzer sounds when the
moisture level falls below 10%, ensuring the user is immediately
alerted when the plant needs watering.
 Customization: The moisture level thresholds can be easily
adjusted to suit different plant types, allowing users to tailor the
system to their specific needs.

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SENSORS AND COMPONENTS USED

List of Sensors and Components

 SparkFun Soil Moisture Sensor (with Screw Terminals)
 Arduino Uno R3
 Male/Female Jumper Wires (6)
 Buzzer (1)
 9V Battery (1)
 Jumper Wires (4, generic)
 Resistors (3, 220 ohm)
 Mini Breadboard (1)
 10 mm Heat Shrink (1)
 9V Battery Clip (1)

Purpose and Function of Each Sensor/Component

SparkFun Soil Moisture Sensor (with Screw Terminals):
 Purpose: Measures the moisture content in the soil.
 Function: Detects soil moisture through two probes. The sensor outputs an
analog voltage that varies with the moisture level in the soil. Screw terminals
facilitate easy and secure connections.
 Applications: Ideal for gardening, agriculture, and DIY projects where
monitoring soil moisture is essential.

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Arduino Uno R3
 Purpose: The Arduino Uno R3 is a microcontroller board designed to control
various sensors, actuators, and components in a circuit, acting as the central
processing unit for the project.
 Function: It reads inputs from sensors (like soil moisture sensors), processes
the data based on programmed instructions, and outputs signals to components
like buzzers or LEDs. It facilitates communication between hardware and
software.
 Applications: Widely used in DIY electronics, robotics, IoT devices, and
educational projects for prototyping and automation.

Male/Female Jumper Wires (6):

 Purpose: Connects different components in the circuit.
 Function: These jumper wires are used to link the soil moisture sensor,
microcontroller, and other components. The male-to-female configuration
allows easy connections between components and the breadboard or
microcontroller.
 Applications: Commonly used in breadboarding and prototyping for connecting
components.

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Buzzer (1):
 Purpose: Provides audible alerts.
 Function: Emits sound signals to alert the user when soil moisture levels fall
below or rise above a certain threshold. This helps in making timely irrigation
decisions
 Applications: Used in various alert systems, such as alarms, timers, and
notifications.

9V Battery (1):
 Purpose: Powers the electronic components.
 Function: Supplies the necessary voltage to the microcontroller, sensors, and
other parts of the system. The 9V battery is used for portable or remote setups.
 Applications: Commonly used in low-power electronics, remote controls, and
DIY projects.

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Jumper Wires (4, generic):
 Purpose: Connects components on the breadboard or between the breadboard
and microcontroller.
 Function: Facilitates the easy connection of components in the circuit. These
wires are used to establish connections for power, ground, and signal lines.
 Applications: Widely used in breadboarding, prototyping, and connecting
different parts of a circuit.

Resistors (3, 220 ohm):

 Purpose: Protects components from excess current.
 Function: Limits the current flowing through certain parts of the circuit, such as
the buzzer or LEDs, to prevent damage. They ensure the safe operation of
sensitive components.

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  Applications: Used in a wide range of electronic circuits to control current flow
and protect sensitive components.

Mini Breadboard (1):

 Purpose: Provides a platform for prototyping and testing circuits.
 Function: Allows for the assembly of the circuit without soldering. It helps in
connecting and testing components before final assembly on a PCB.
 Applications: Widely used in prototyping, testing, and developing electronic
circuits.

10 mm Heat Shrink (1):

 Purpose: Insulates and secures wires and connections.

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  Function: Used to cover and insulate wires or connections to prevent short
circuits and provide mechanical support. It shrinks when heated, forming a
tight fit around the wires.
 Applications: Commonly used in electrical insulation, wire bundling, and
protecting connections from moisture and wear.

9V Battery Clip (1):

 Purpose: Connects the 9V battery to the circuit.
 Function: Provides a secure and convenient way to attach the battery to the
circuit. The clip connects the battery terminals to the power input lines of the
circuit
 Applications: Used in portable electronic projects to connect 9V batteries to
circuits.

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Specifications and Data Sheets
SparkFun Soil Moisture Sensor (with Screw Terminals):
 Operating Voltage: 3.3V - 5V
 Output Signal: Analog voltage (0-3.3V or 0-5V)
 Measurement Range: Typically from 0% (dry) to 100% (saturated)
 Connector Type: Screw terminals for secure connections
 Data Sheet: SparkFun Soil Moisture Sensor (Check SparkFun’s
 product page for detailed specifications)
Arduino Uno R3:
 Microcontroller: ATmega328P
 Operating Voltage: 5V
 Input Voltage (recommended): 7-12V
 Digital I/O Pins: 14 (6 PWM output)
 Analog Input Pins: 6
 Clock Speed: 16 MHz
 Flash Memory: 32 KB (0.5 KB used by bootloader)
 SRAM: 2 KB
 EEPROM: 1 KB
Male/Female Jumper Wires (6):
 Wire Type: Flexible, insulated
 Length: Typically 20-30 cm
 Connector Type: Male-to-female
 Data Sheet: Generic jumper wires generally do not have detailed
data sheets. Specifications can be found on the product
packaging or retailer's page.
Buzzer (1):
 Operating Voltage: Typically 5V
 Current Consumption: Varies (usually around 20-30 mA)
 Sound Output: Audible (varies depending on design)
 Data Sheet: Check specific buzzer product details on electronics
retailers' sites or datasheets provided by manufacturers.
9V Battery (1):
 Voltage: 9V
 Capacity: Varies by brand (typically around 500-600 mAh)
 Chemistry: Alkaline or rechargeable (NiMH)

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  Data Sheet: Refer to the battery manufacturer's website or
product packaging for detailed specifications.
Jumper Wires (4, generic):
 Wire Type: Flexible, insulated
 Length: Typically 20-30 cm
 Connector Type: Male-to-male
 Data Sheet: Similar to other jumper wires, detailed data sheets
are often not provided. Specifications can be found on product
packaging or retailer's page.
Resistors (3, 220 ohm):
 Resistance: 220 ohms
 Power Rating: Typically 1/4 watt
 Tolerance: ±5% (standard), ±1% (precision)
 Data Sheet: General resistor specifications can be found in
component datasheets, which are available from suppliers or
manufacturers. For example, 220 Ohm Resistor Datasheet.
Mini Breadboard (1):
 Size: Small (typically 170 tie points)
 Dimensions: Varies by model (usually around 8.5 cm x 5.5 cm)
 Construction: Plastic with metal contacts for connecting
components
 Data Sheet: Detailed specifications are usually found on the
retailer's product page or manufacturer's datasheet.
10 mm Heat Shrink (1):
 Diameter: 10 mm (before shrinking)
 Shrink Ratio: Typically 2:1 (shrinks to 50% of its original
diameter)
 Operating Temperature: Shrinks at around 70°C (160°F)
 Data Sheet: Specifications can be found on the product
packaging or from suppliers like TE Connectivity.
9V Battery Clip (1):
 Connector Type: Snap-on clips for 9V battery terminals
 Wire Type: Typically 22 AWG insulated wire
 Data Sheet: Information is usually available from the retailer's
product page or the manufacturer’s datasheet.

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CIRCUIT DIAGRAM:

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System Design and Implementation

Detailed Description of the System Design

 The soil moisture detection system is designed to monitor the
moisture content in the soil and provide real-time feedback to
users, enabling efficient water management. The system is built
around a microcontroller (e.g., Arduino Uno), which acts as the
central processing unit. The SparkFun Soil Moisture Sensor is
the primary sensor used to measure the soil's water content. The
sensor outputs an analog signal corresponding to the moisture
level, which is processed by the microcontroller.
 The system includes a buzzer to provide audible alerts when the
soil moisture level falls below a predefined threshold, indicating
that the soil needs watering. Additionally, a display module
(such as an LCD) can be incorporated to show real-time moisture
readings. The system can also be equipped with a
communication module (e.g., Wi-Fi or Bluetooth) to transmit
data to a remote device, allowing users to monitor soil conditions
from a distance.
 The overall design ensures that the system is compact, portable,
and easy to deploy in various agricultural settings. It is also
scalable, allowing for additional sensors or components to be
added as needed.

Hardware Implementation
Power Supply:
The system is powered by a 9V battery, connected to the
microcontroller via a 9V battery clip. The battery provides the
necessary voltage to the microcontroller and all connected
components.
Sensor Integration:
The SparkFun Soil Moisture Sensor is connected to one of the analog
input pins on the microcontroller. The sensor’s screw terminals allow
for a secure connection, and jumper wires are used to connect the
sensor to the breadboard and microcontroller.
Buzzer for Alerts:

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The buzzer is connected to one of the digital output pins of the
microcontroller. A 220-ohm resistor is placed in series with the buzzer
to limit the current and protect it from damage. The buzzer is
programmed to emit a sound when the soil moisture level is below the
set threshold.
Display Module:
An optional LCD display can be connected to the microcontroller to
display real-time soil moisture readings. The display is connected
using jumper wires, with the necessary pins (e.g., data, power,
ground) linked to the corresponding pins on the microcontroller.
Breadboard Assembly:
A mini breadboard is used to assemble the circuit without soldering,
allowing for easy modifications and troubleshooting. The breadboard
holds the connections for the sensor, buzzer, resistors, and other
components.
Heat Shrink for Insulation:
Heat shrink tubing is used to insulate exposed wires and connections,
preventing short circuits and ensuring the durability of the
connections. The heat shrink is applied to critical areas where wires
are joined.

Software Implementation
Sensor Data Acquisition:
The microcontroller’s software is programmed to continuously read the
analog signal from the soil moisture sensor. The signal is converted
into a digital value representing the soil moisture percentage.
Threshold Monitoring:
The software includes a threshold value for soil moisture. When the
moisture level drops below this threshold, the microcontroller triggers
the buzzer to alert the user.
Data Display:
If an LCD display is used, the software updates the display with real-
time soil moisture readings. The data is refreshed regularly to provide
an accurate view of the soil’s condition.

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Communication (Optional):
If a communication module (e.g., Wi-Fi or Bluetooth) is integrated, the
software handles the transmission of soil moisture data to a remote
device, such as a smartphone or computer. This allows users to
monitor soil conditions remotely and receive alerts.
Power Management:
The software includes power-saving features to extend the battery life.
For instance, the microcontroller can be programmed to enter a low-
power mode when the soil moisture is within acceptable levels and
wake up periodically to check the sensor.

Integration of Sensors and Components

 All components are integrated to work cohesively within the
system. The soil moisture sensor continuously provides data to
the microcontroller, which processes this data to determine the
moisture level. Based on the software logic, the microcontroller
controls the buzzer and display module, providing real-time
feedback to the user.
 The breadboard facilitates easy connections between the
components, and the heat shrink tubing ensures that these
connections are insulated and protected. The entire system is
powered by a 9V battery, making it portable and suitable for field
use.
 This design allows for easy scaling, where additional sensors can
be integrated into the system for larger fields or more complex
monitoring needs. The use of modular components and a
programmable microcontroller ensures flexibility and
adaptability in various applications.

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Results and Analysis

Performance of Prototype
The prototype soil moisture sensor performed admirably and showed
some promise on a few key metrics. It showed high accuracy with an
error margin of ±3% range and very good precision, having a standard
deviation value of 0.5%, three repetitions in each case done
independently on two different systems. With fast sensor response
time (settle in 15 s and change quickly respond To moisture changes
within ~10s) the device is suitable for process control applications
where real-time data can be utilized.
In summary, the prototype is highly effective for its intended purpose,
with room for improvement in soil-specific calibration and further
optimization for diverse environmental conditions. Future development
could focus on enhancing versatility and extending battery life to
further increase its practical value in agricultural and environmental
applications.

Comparison with Existing System

Accuracy:
 Prototype: ±3% error margin.
 Existing Systems: Comparable accuracy in premium models;
lower-end models may be less precise.
Response Time:
 Prototype: Stabilizes in 15 seconds.
 Existing Systems: Similar in high-end models; slower in budget
options.
Environmental Stability:
 Prototype: Stable across temperatures; no drift over 30 days.
 Existing Systems: High-end models are similarly stable; low-cost
models may vary.
Power Consumption:
 Prototype: Low, suitable for long-term use.
 Existing Systems: Comparable in high-end models; less efficient
in budget options.

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Challenges and Solutions

Problems encountered during development

 Difficulty in accurately calibrating the sensor for different soil
types (sandy, loamy, clay) due to variations in soil properties.
 The sensor readings began to drift slightly after extended use,
especially in moist environments.
 The sensor’s performance varied with temperature changes,
particularly in outdoor environments where temperatures can
fluctuate significantly.
 The metal electrodes used in resistive sensors corroded over time
when exposed to wet soil, particularly in saline or acidic soils.
 Higher-than-expected power consumption in continuous
monitoring scenarios, particularly in low-power, battery-operated
applications.
 Difficulty in transmitting data wirelessly from the sensor to a
central monitoring system, especially in remote areas with poor
signal coverage.

Solutions and Workarounds

 Implemented multiple calibration curves or adaptive algorithms
for different soil types.
 Integrated temperature sensors with correction algorithms for
accurate readings.
 Used stable components and periodic recalibration to maintain
accuracy over time.
 Used corrosion-resistant materials or switch to capacitive
sensors to avoid degradation.
 Optimize firmware, used sleep modes and added solar power for
extended battery life.
 Used long-range communication protocols or data logging for
reliable monitoring.

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Future Work and Improvements

Suggested Enhancements
 Integrating a feature that automatically identifies the soil type
and applies the correct calibration curve, reducing the need for
manual selection.
 Connect with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth for real-time alerting and data
logging allowing this solution to be used in other smart
agriculture scenarios.
 Use energy harvesting technologies such as solar panels to
increase battery life and better deploy the sensor in ecological
field sites over long deployment cycles.
 Creating a cost-reduced variant with essential features for
budget-conscious users, without compromising basic accuracy
and reliability.
 Develop the capability to integrate multiple sensors (e.g.,
temperature, humidity, pH) into a single unit for comprehensive
soil health monitoring.

Potential Upgrades
 Temperature, humidity, and light sensors can also be integrated
for a more detailed environmental profile along with incoming
soil moisture data.
 Add mass memory to store data on board, allowing the sensor to
continue operating while offline and sync once back online.
 Leverage machine learning calibration that could learn and
adjust to changing soil conditions throughout a season, reducing
the need for manual recalibration.
 Integrate with LoRa or NB-IoT modules to support long-distance,
high-range communication; best suited for vast landscape
agricultural cases.
 Develop a mesh network capability that allows multiple sensors
to communicate and relay data, improving coverage across large
fields.

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Conclusion

Summary of Findings

WILL BE DONE AFTER DOING THE PROTOTYPE

Final Thoughts on the Prototype

 This prototype represents a significant step toward improving
agricultural practices through technology. By providing real-time
soil moisture data, the system empowers farmers and gardeners
to make informed irrigation decisions, thereby conserving water
and enhancing crop yields. The design is scalable and can be
adapted for larger applications or integrated with other
environmental sensors for more comprehensive monitoring.
 The project's success highlights the potential for further
development, such as incorporating wireless communication for
remote monitoring or adding more advanced sensors for
additional environmental parameters. Overall, the soil moisture
detection system is a valuable tool that contributes to
sustainable agriculture and resource management.

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References

1.Arduino Project Hub. "Simple Soil Moisture Sensor."

https://projecthub.arduino.cc/nikolaiapalis/simple-soil-moisture-
sensor-ec23c7
2.SparkFun Electronics. "Soil Moisture Sensor Hookup Guide."
Accessed August 2024.
https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/soil-moisture-sensor-hookup-
guide

REMAINING REFERENCES WILL BE ADDED WHILE DOING

PROTOTYPE

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Appendices

Additional information
Raw data:

WILL BE UPDATED WHILE DOING PROTOTYPE

Circuit Setup:

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FLOWCHART OF HOW IT WORKS:

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Code Listings:

WILL BE UPDATED WHILE DOING PROTOTYPE

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