Automatic Plant Watering System - Electronic Engineering Guide
1. Introduction
This project involves designing an Automatic Plant Watering System using basic electronic components and sensors. It is ideal for beginner to intermediate level electronic engineering students. The system ensures that plants receive adequate water based on soil moisture levels without human intervention.
2. Objectives
• To develop an electronic system that can automatically
water plants.
• To understand the working of soil moisture sensors and microcontrollers.
• To reduce water wastage through automation.
• To integrate hardware and software for real-time environmental monitoring.
3. Components Required
• Arduino Uno or compatible microcontroller board
• Soil moisture sensor
• Relay module
• Submersible water pump or solenoid valve
• Jumper wires
• Breadboard
• Power supply (battery or adapter)
• Resistors, LEDs (for indicators)
4. Block Diagram
Refer to the attached block diagram showing the interaction between sensors, microcontroller, and actuator.
5. Circuit Diagram and Explanation
The soil moisture sensor's analog output is connected to one of the analog input pins on the Arduino. A relay module controls the water pump. When the moisture level is below the threshold, the Arduino triggers the relay, turning on the pump.
6. Working Principle
The soil moisture sensor checks the moisture level. When the level falls below a preset value, the Arduino activates the relay to start the pump. Once the desired moisture level is reached, the pump is turned off automatically.
7. Software and Programming
Arduino IDE is used for writing and uploading code. The
logic involves reading analog values from the sensor and triggering digital
outputs to control the pump.
Example Code Snippet:
int sensorPin = A0;
int relayPin = 8;
void setup() {
pinMode(relayPin, OUTPUT);
Serial.begin(9600);
}
void loop() {
int moisture = analogRead(sensorPin);
if (moisture < 400) {
digitalWrite(relayPin, HIGH);
} else {
digitalWrite(relayPin, LOW);
}
delay(1000);
}
8. Construction and Testing
Assemble the components on a breadboard or PCB. Upload the code to the Arduino. Test by inserting the sensor in dry and wet soil and observe the pump operation. Adjust the moisture threshold as necessary.
9. Troubleshooting Tips
• Ensure correct wiring of sensor and relay.
• Check power supply voltage.
• Monitor serial output for sensor readings.
• Test the relay and pump independently if needed.
10. Conclusion
The automatic plant watering system simplifies garden maintenance and ensures optimal soil moisture. It is a practical application of sensors and microcontroller programming in environmental automation.