Design and implementation of wireless sensor node for noncontact measurement of liquid

Abstract

A need often arises to precisely measure water and other liquids in many industrial and commercial places wirelessly. Along with water, other liquids may be measured by Noncontact method, detailed in this paper. Many measurement techniques for liquid such as float, pressure gauge, ultrasonic and radar are available. Cumulative error, which increases with time, and their cost are hindrance in adopting them. So, an immediate need is felt for measuring the level of liquid with reasonable accuracy, Noncontact principle and low cost. The proposed sensor node is used to measure a considerable range, by using magnet and sensing floating switch (Noncontact), with a minimum error and communicate with remote terminal wirelessly. Wireless feature is essential for ease of recording readings, database management, and to remove wiring complications at difficult to reach places. The sensor node is Noncontact, green device having low power requirement, good measuring accuracy device with wireless transmission capability. It overcomes the problems faced by other gauges and is suitable for Noncontact measurement of almost any liquid. A solar panel and battery backup aid the gauge to be installed at remote places where supply is partially or not available at all, making the unit self dependent. An additional feature to wirelessly control the sensor node from the master unit makes it single person operating device. A smart self powered sensor node with wireless data transmission capability, self power cut on maloperation is implemented and presented in this paper.