Development of A Laboratory-Based Automated Irrigation Prototype

Abstract

Advanced technology plays significance roles in the field of agriculture. Daily activities associated to farming or garden watering is the most essential cultural and the most labour intensive task. Automation is a technology in which a device is used to execute a specific task without human involvement. The research aimed at developing a laboratory-based automated irrigation system which will serve as teaching aid for students and farmers in order to save energy, conserve water and give required amount of water to the plants when needed. This project uses soil moisture sensor, Arduino Uno, relay module, DC motor and battery. The switching ON/OFF of the motor pump is based on the moisture content or the dryness level of the soil. The sensor values of the system range are 0<SV<300 (start irrigation) and SV≥300 (stop irrigation). If this system is replicated and used on the farm, it will help farmers enjoy having plants irrigated without necessarily going to the farm. It will also solve the problem of forgetfulness or omitting an irrigation schedules.