Smart irrigation system using ESP32 via cloud integration with Blynk

A PROJECT REPORT
Submitted by

NIDHIN S 711321107076
MITHUN RAAM 711321107114
VINITHKUMAR A S 711321107126
VIKASH B 711321107125

U21EE702 – ELECTRICAL APPLICATION LABORATORY

DEPARTMENT OF
ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING

KPR INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY

(Autonomous Institution)

ARASUR, COIMBATORE 641 407

NOV 2024
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 Abstract

This project focuses on the development of a smart irrigation system designed

to optimize water usage and monitor key environmental parameters to enhance
agricultural efficiency. Utilizing an ESP32 microcontroller, the system
integrates multiple sensors, including a soil moisture sensor, air humidity
sensor, and temperature sensor probe, to measure soil and environmental
conditions in real time. Additionally, a water flow sensor tracks water usage,
while a solenoid valve, controlled by a relay module, automates water
distribution. The collected data is transmitted to the Blynk Cloud, enabling
remote monitoring and control via a smartphone application. The system can
autonomously regulate irrigation based on soil moisture levels, providing alerts
through the Blynk app when thresholds are exceeded. This innovative approach
leverages IoT technology to ensure water conservation, reduce manual
intervention, and improve irrigation management. Key features include real-
time data visualization, customizable alerts, and remote-control capabilities,
making the system versatile and user-friendly. Through testing and validation,
the system demonstrates its potential as a sustainable solution for modern
agriculture.

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 TABLE OF CONTENT

Chapter No TITLE Page no

INTRODUCTION
1.1 Problem statement
1 5
1.2 Objective
1.3 Scope of the project
SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
2.1 Functional Requirements
2 2.2 Non-Functional Requirements 7
2.3 Hardware Requirements
2.4 Software Requirements
IMPLEMENTATION
3.1 Hardware Setup
3 10
3.2 Hardware Configuration
3.3 Software Configuration

4 SIMULATION 13

5 RESULT 15

6 CONCLUSION 16

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 CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION

In an era of rapid technological innovation, automation systems are redefining

the way we interact with our surroundings, enhancing convenience, efficiency, and
sustainability. One promising area of application is the automation of lavatory
environments, where advancements can significantly improve user comfort and
energy conservation. The development of a Lavatory Automation System using
Arduino microcontroller technology represents a notable stride toward realizing
these objectives.
At the core of this system are essential components such as the Arduino
microcontroller, DHT11 temperature sensor, and motion detection sensor. The
DHT11 sensor provides continuous monitoring of ambient temperature, sending
real-time data to the Arduino controller. The system responds to temperature
thresholds by activating a ventilation fan, ensuring a comfortable environment.
Simultaneously, the motion detection sensor facilitates intelligent lighting
control, automatically illuminating the lavatory upon detecting user presence and
switching lights off when the space is unoccupied. This automation enhances user
experience while conserving energy by minimizing unnecessary power usage.
The integration of these sensors and actuators with Arduino technology
ensures reliable, autonomous control of lavatory conditions. Its modular and
scalable design allows seamless integration into broader smart home ecosystems,
enabling a customizable and comprehensive automation solution.
This report delves into the design, hardware setup, software development, and
performance evaluation of the Lavatory Automation System. With the inclusion of
cloud storage capabilities for real-time data logging and remote monitoring, the
system leverages analytics for optimization and scalability. By illustrating the
potential of Arduino-based automation in enhancing lavatory environments, this
project contributes to the evolution of smart, sustainable living solutions for
modern households and facilities.

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1.1 Problem Statement:

Efficient water management is a critical challenge in agriculture, with traditional

irrigation methods often leading to overuse or inadequate watering, negatively
impacting crop yields and wasting resources. Farmers and gardeners lack real-
time monitoring and automated control systems to optimize water usage based on
environmental conditions like soil moisture, temperature, and air humidity. This
inefficiency not only increases operational costs but also exacerbates water
scarcity, a growing global concern.

1.2 Objective:

To design a smart irrigation system using IoT to monitor soil moisture, air
humidity, and temperature in real time, automate water distribution via a solenoid
valve, and enable remote monitoring and control through the Blynk app. The
system aims to optimize water usage, provide real-time alerts for critical
conditions, and enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability.

1.3 Scope of Project:

This project focuses on developing a cost-effective smart irrigation system for

agricultural and gardening applications. It enables real-time monitoring of soil
moisture, air humidity, and temperature, and automates irrigation based on soil
moisture levels using a solenoid valve. Users can remotely access and control the
system through the Blynk app, ensuring convenience and efficiency. The system
optimizes water usage, reduces waste, and provides timely alerts for abnormal
conditions, making it a sustainable solution adaptable to various crops and
environments.

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 CHAPTER 2
SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS

2.1 Functional Requirements for Smart Irrigation:

1. Environmental Parameter Monitoring:

 The system must monitor soil moisture, air humidity, and
temperature in real-time.
 It should be able to detect deviations from the predefined
temperature range.
 The system should provide real-time temperature readings to users
or administrators.

2. Automated Irrigation Control:

 The system must regulate water flow using a solenoid valve based
on soil moisture levels.
 It should adjust ventilation rates to ensure optimal air circulation
and freshness.
 The system should track and report water flow to ensure efficient
resource usage.

3. Alert and Notification System:

 The system must send alerts when soil moisture is too low or
environmental conditions exceed specified thresholds.
 Notifications should be accessible on the Blynk app for timely
user intervention.

4. Remote Monitoring and Control:

 Users must be able to monitor sensor data and control irrigation
remotely using the Blynk app.
 Lighting control should include options for dimming, motion-
activated lighting, and scheduled adjustments.

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2.2 Non-Functional Requirements for Smart Irrigation:

1. Reliability:
 The system should operate reliably under normal conditions and in the
event of unexpected failures or disruptions.
 It should have a low failure rate and be resilient to hardware or software
malfunctions.
 The system should have built-in mechanisms for fault detection,
isolation, and recovery to minimize downtime.

2. Energy Efficiency:
 The system should optimize energy usage throughout its operation,
including lighting, ventilation, and other components.
 It should employ energy-saving features such as motion sensors to
control lighting and ventilation only when necessary.
 Energy-efficient components and algorithms should be prioritized to
minimize overall power consumption.

3. Responsiveness:
 The system should respond promptly to user inputs and environmental
changes.
 It should have low latency in detecting user presence, adjusting settings,
and executing commands.
 Responsive feedback mechanisms should be in place to confirm user
actions and provide real-time status updates.

4. Scalability:
 The system should be capable of scaling to accommodate varying
numbers of users and lavatory facilities.
 It should support modular expansion to add new features or integrate
with additional sensors and devices.
 Scalability should be achieved without compromising performance or
reliability.

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5. Security:
 The system should prioritize the security and privacy of user data and
interactions.
 It should implement robust authentication and authorization
mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access.
 Data transmission and storage should be encrypted to protect sensitive
information from unauthorized disclosure or tampering.

6. Compatibility:
 The system should be compatible with a wide range of hardware and
software platforms.
 It should support standard communication protocols and interfaces to
facilitate integration with existing building systems and future
upgrades.
 Compatibility testing should be conducted to ensure seamless
interoperability with different devices and environments

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2.3 Hardware Requirements for Lavatory Automation:

1. ESP32 Microcontroller:
 The ESP32 serves as the central processing unit, providing Wi-Fi
connectivity and sufficient GPIO pins for sensor interfacing.
 Recommended models include Arduino Uno or Arduino Nano for their
versatility and ease of use.
 Its low power consumption and dual-core processing capabilities make
it ideal for continuous operation in outdoor environments.

2. Soil Moisture Sensor:

 A soil moisture sensor measures the water content in the soil to
determine irrigation needs.
 It provides accurate readings and is relatively inexpensive, making it
suitable for this application.
 The sensor should be durable and resistant to environmental conditions
like moisture and temperature changes.

3. Air Humidity and Temperature Sensor (e.g., DHT22):

 A combined humidity and temperature sensor monitors environmental
conditions to complement irrigation decision-making.
 PIR sensors detect changes in infrared radiation caused by movement,
triggering actions such as lighting activation or ventilation adjustment.
 It should be placed strategically to ensure accurate ambient condition
measurements.

4. Water Flow Sensor:

 A water flow sensor tracks water usage and ensures efficient resource
management.
 It should be installed between the water supply and the solenoid valve
to measure real-time water flow accurately.

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 5. Relay Module:
 A relay module controls the solenoid valve, acting as a switch to
automate water flow based on soil moisture levels.
 It should be compatible with the ESP32 and capable of handling the
voltage and current of the solenoid valve.
 The relay must have proper isolation to ensure safe operation.

6. Power Supply:
 A stable and reliable power supply is essential to power the Arduino
microcontroller, sensors, ventilation fan, and lighting system.
 Depending on the specific components used and the lavatory's power
infrastructure, options include batteries, AC adapters, or a combination
of both.

2.4 Software Requirements for Lavatory Automation:

1. Arduino Integrated Development Environment (IDE):

 The Arduino IDE is the primary software tool used for programming
Arduino microcontrollers.
 It provides an intuitive interface for writing, compiling, and uploading
code to the Arduino board.
 The Arduino IDE is available for free download and is compatible
with Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems.

2. Arduino Libraries:
 Relevant Arduino libraries need to be installed within the Arduino
IDE to interface with sensors and control external devices.
 Libraries such as "DHT sensor library" for DHT11 temperature and
humidity sensor and "Arduino-IRremote" for infrared communication
with motion sensors may be required.
 These libraries provide pre-written code and functions to simplify
programming tasks and facilitate interaction with hardware
components.

3. Sensor Calibration Software:

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  Software tools for calibrating sensors, such as temperature and
humidity sensors, may be necessary to ensure accurate readings.
 Calibration software allows users to adjust sensor parameters and
offsets to compensate for environmental variations and improve
measurement accuracy.

4. Programming Languages:
 Proficiency in programming languages such as C/C++ is required for
developing code for the Arduino microcontroller.
 Knowledge of programming concepts such as variables, functions,
loops, and conditional statements is necessary for writing efficient and
reliable code.

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 CHAPTER 3
IMPLEMENTATION AND WORKING

3.1 Hardware Setup:

The hardware setup for the Smart Irrigation System involves assembling
and positioning various components to ensure efficient monitoring and control
of irrigation. The ESP32 microcontroller is centrally placed to maintain
connectivity with sensors and the Blynk Cloud. Soil moisture sensors are
embedded in the soil for accurate water content detection, while the air humidity
and temperature sensor is positioned in an open area to monitor environmental
conditions. The water flow sensor is installed in the water supply line, and the
solenoid valve is connected to control water distribution. Proper wiring and
enclosure protect the components and enhance system durability.

Gathering the Components:

1. ESP32 Microcontroller
2. Soil Moisture Sensor(s)
3. Relay Module
4. DHT 11
5. Solenoid Valve
6. Breadboard (optional, but recommended for prototyping)

Circuit diagram:

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 3.2 Hardware configuration:

The hardware configuration for the Smart Irrigation System involves the
installation and setup of components to ensure optimal performance in monitoring
and automating irrigation. The configuration includes:

 ESP32 Microcontroller: Positioned centrally to connect with all sensors and the
solenoid valve, acting as the main processing and communication hub.
 Soil Moisture Sensor: Installed at appropriate depths in the soil to measure
water content accurately, ensuring sensors are placed away from irrigation water
outlets to avoid false readings.
 Air Humidity and Temperature Sensor (DHT22): Mounted in a shaded, open
area to provide accurate ambient readings without interference from direct
sunlight or irrigation water.
 Water Flow Sensor: Configured in-line with the water supply to monitor flow
rates accurately, ensuring placement is secure to prevent leaks.
 Relay Module: Connected to the ESP32 and the solenoid valve to control water
flow automatically based on soil moisture levels.
 Solenoid Valve: Installed on the irrigation line to regulate water distribution
efficiently, ensuring proper alignment for seamless operation.
 Power Supply: Set up to provide stable and reliable power to all components,
with provisions for backup power or solar energy where needed.

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3.3 Software Configuration:

1. Arduino IDE Setup:

Installation of the Arduino Integrated Development Environment (IDE)
on a computer for programming the Arduino microcontroller and
configuring it to communicate with the Arduino board for code upload.
2. Sensor Calibration:
Configure the DHT22 sensor to ensure precise humidity and temperature
readings by validating its output against known conditions.
3. Programming Logic:
Develop code to read data from all sensors and process it to determine
irrigation needs. Create logic to control the solenoid valve via the relay
based on soil moisture thresholds.
4. Blynk Cloud Integration:
Configure the ESP32 to connect to the Blynk Cloud using Wi-Fi
credentials and an authentication token. Set up virtual pins for each sensor
to send data to the Blynk dashboard. Enable notifications for critical events,
such as low soil moisture or unusual environmental conditions.
5. User Interface:
Optionally, creation of a user interface using LCD displays, LEDs, or
serial communication to provide feedback on system status and allow user
interaction, such as manual control overrides or setting adjustments.
Additionally, integration with a mobile or web application can provide a
more advanced interface for monitoring and controlling the system via the
cloud.
6. Error Handling:
Implementation of error handling mechanisms to manage exceptional
conditions, such as sensor malfunctions, communication errors, or failed
adata uploads to the cloud, ensuring the robustness and reliability of the
system.

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ARDUINO CODE USED FOR THE EXECUTION :

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 CHAPTER 4
SIMULATION

 Simulation Environment Setup:

The simulation environment replicates real-world agricultural conditions,
including soil moisture, temperature, and humidity variations. It uses software or
hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) setups to emulate sensor and actuator behavior. Virtual
components simulate soil moisture sensors, humidity and temperature sensors,

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water flow sensors, and solenoid valve functionality. The ESP32 microcontroller
interacts with the simulated components to mimic real-world operations. All data
generated during the simulation is logged to the Blynk Cloud for real-time
monitoring and historical analysis.

 Soil Moisture Monitoring Simulation:

Experiments are conducted to simulate varying soil moisture levels,
assessing the system's ability to detect low and adequate moisture thresholds. The
behavior of the solenoid valve in responding to these changes is analyzed, ensuring
water is supplied when needed and stopped when soil moisture is sufficient. Key
metrics, such as soil moisture trends and irrigation timings, are logged to the cloud
for validation and optimization.

 Environmental Parameter Simulation:

Simulations evaluate the accuracy and responsiveness of the DHT22
sensor in monitoring humidity and temperature changes. Various temperature
and humidity profiles are tested to ensure the system can reliably report real-
time environmental data. The effectiveness of the system in using these
parameters to influence irrigation behavior is also assessed. Logged sensor data
in the cloud supports future improvements and real-world deployment
calibration.

 Irrigation Control Simulation:

The system's ability to regulate water flow is tested by simulating different
levels of water demand. The water flow sensor's performance is assessed, ensuring
accurate tracking of water usage. The solenoid valve's operation is validated by
testing automated and manual control scenarios via the Blynk app. Energy
consumption and efficiency metrics during these simulations are monitored and
stored in the cloud for further analysis.
 Data Collection and Analysis:
During simulations, data on sensor readings, actuator responses, and system
performance is collected and analyzed. Metrics include soil moisture levels,
irrigation timings, water usage, and energy consumption. The Blynk Cloud
dashboard visualizes this data, enabling the identification of trends and optimization
opportunities. Cloud-based storage supports collaboration and advanced analytics for
further development.

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 Validation and Verification:
The simulation results are compared against predefined requirements to validate
the Smart Irrigation System's functionality. Any deviations are analyzed, and
adjustments are made to hardware configurations or software algorithms. Validation
ensures the system meets performance and reliability expectations under simulated
conditions. The use of cloud-stored data streamlines remote testing and iterative
improvements, ensuring the system's readiness for real-world deployment.

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 CHAPTER 5
RESULT

The implementation of the Smart Irrigation System using the ESP32

microcontroller has successfully demonstrated effective monitoring and
automation for efficient water management. The system employs real-time soil
moisture sensing to trigger irrigation automatically, ensuring optimal soil
hydration while minimizing water wastage.
Environmental parameters, including temperature and humidity, are
continuously monitored, providing insights into conditions that impact plant
growth. Integration with the Blynk Cloud allows real-time data logging and
remote management through a user-friendly mobile application, enhancing user
control and accessibility.
Simulation and testing confirm the system's reliability and responsiveness,
with automated water flow regulation and accurate sensor readings. The solenoid
valve operates seamlessly, and the water flow sensor ensures precise usage
tracking. Cloud-based data storage facilitates advanced analytics, supporting
future enhancements and scalability for larger agricultural setups.
User feedback and performance evaluations highlight significant water
savings and improved irrigation efficiency. The system's modular design and
cloud integration ensure scalability, enabling its adaptation for diverse agricultural
applications. These results underscore the practicality and benefits of IoT-based
smart irrigation, promoting resource efficiency and sustainable farming practices.

Temperature Sensor:

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 CHAPTER 6
CONCLUSION

The Smart Irrigation System, developed using the ESP32 microcontroller,

demonstrates significant potential for improving agricultural efficiency and
sustainability. By autonomously regulating irrigation based on real-time soil
moisture levels and environmental parameters, the system ensures optimal plant
hydration while minimizing water wastage.

Integration of the soil moisture sensor, temperature, and humidity sensors with
the ESP32 microcontroller enables precise and intelligent control, offering
reliability and user convenience. The addition of Blynk Cloud connectivity
supports real-time data logging, remote monitoring, and system control via a
mobile app, enhancing functionality and accessibility.

The system’s modular and scalable design facilitates easy adaptation for diverse
agricultural applications and future expansions. This project highlights the
practicality and effectiveness of IoT-driven automation for water conservation
and sustainable farming, laying a strong foundation for advanced agricultural
technologies.

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