Introduction
In today's advancing world, where technology is growing fast, SIMDS (Smart Irrigation and Moisture Detection System) helps farmers with distant fields. Instead of farmers going far to water crops, now using this simple model, the farmers can now water their fields from any location around the globe having mobile network connectivity. Using 4G network connectivity, farmers can just send a text SMS to the system and start watering. No need to be there in person, especially for big fields.
And here's the smart part: my model knows when the soil needs water. If a farmer forgets to water the plants and the moisture level of the soil goes below the given threshold, the model senses it and sends a message to remind the farmer. It's like having a helpful buddy for the crops as well as a helping hand to the farmers.
Plus, the model has Wi-Fi, so farmers can control the water pump from anywhere near the farm. Even if they're relaxing under a tree, they can still manage the watering. It's all about making farming simpler, better, and easier for the farmers.
Working
When the soil moisture levels drop below a specified threshold, an automated system sends an SMS alert notifying the farmer of low soil moisture. Upon receiving the alert, the farmer can choose to activate the irrigation system. The system is equipped with a motor that starts and irrigates the field for a predefined duration.
For added convenience, the farmer has the option to control the irrigation system remotely using WiFi connectivity. This allows them to turn the motor on or off with a simple mobile application (SIMDS-Hyrdo.apk) . Additionally, a physical switch is integrated into the system, providing a manual control option.
Once the irrigation cycle is complete, another SMS is sent to inform the farmer that the motor has been automatically turned off. This smart and versatile system ensures efficient water management, offering both automated and manual control options to suit the farmer's preferences and needs.
PHASES OF DEVELOPMENT
Version 1.0: I started with Version 1 of this model using an Arduino Nano, relay and an old phone. Where the model uses a simple technique where the user can operate the pump with just a missed call. Where the first call will start the motor and the second one will turn it off. Where the data about the current moisture of the soil is not taken into consideration and it is solely at the discretion of the farmer when to turn on and off the pump
Version 1.1: In Version 1.1, I upgraded by adding a 2G GSM module connected to a NodeMCU for Wi-Fi connectivity and coded it accordingly. Here only the old phone is replaced by and 2G SIM card module to reduce the size of the kit
Version 1.2: In this version a major upgradation has taken place where I have added a soil moisture sensor. Now the model can sense the moisture level of the soil and remind the farmer when the level of moisture goes below the given threshold level. Moreover, now the farmers receive SMS instead of phone call operations. The pumps can now be controlled using SMS.
This version had one major advantage where the farmer could change the register phone number, required threshold, and set a timer to the pump to operate, by connecting a specific web server using the IP address of the NodeMCU.
Version 2.0 (Current Version): Now, in this Version 2.0, I've taken it a step further by using a 4G LTE GSM module connected to an Arduino Nano along with a soil sensor. For Wi-Fi functionality, I've integrated a NodeMCU. I also connected the relay and coded both the NodeMCU and Arduino Nano, while also developing a dedicated app where the pumps can be operated through it while being connected to the Access Point (AP) of the NodeMCU. A major setback is faced during the development of this version as the app and its user interface to change phone number, required threshold, and set a timer to the pump to operate, could not be made operational. It can still be set into the programme code.
Version 2.1 (Future Versions): In future model I am thinking of adding a Bluetooth module by which we can change phone number, required threshold, and set a timer to the pump to operate while being in the Bluetooth range
I am also planning to develop an integrated application through which the user can monitor the current moisture level, operate the pumps, get notifications through the application alongside the current SMS facility when the moisture level goes below the set threshold. The app can also be used to set the registered phone number, threshold according to their need and timer for the pumps. This application can be used over the internet from anywhere in the world.
connection diagram is given below (Version 2.0)
code for Version 2.0 👉 source code
MATERIALS REQUIRED:
The components used in this model includes.
- 4G LTE module (SIM7672S),
- Two Micro Controller Units (MCU)
- 5-volt relay
- Push switch
- Soil moisture sensor
- Set of wires.
a. Arduino
b. Noemcu ESP8266
SCIENTIFIC PRINCIPLE OF INVOLVED:
The scientific principle underpinning this project involves the correlation between soil moisture and electrical conductivity. The soil moisture sensor incorporated into the system operates based on the principle that as soil moisture increases, the electrical conductivity of the soil also rises. This sensor measures the changes in conductivity, allowing the system to accurately detect when the soil requires watering. This scientific principle aligns seamlessly with the project's objective of using advanced technology, such as 4G networks, to streamline irrigation processes for farmers with distant fields. The sensor's ability to assess soil moisture levels serves as a key component in the intelligent irrigation system, enhancing efficiency and ensuring timely watering for optimal crop growth
ADVANTAGES
DISTINCTIVE ADVANTAGES ASSOCIATED WITH THIS MODEL.
- The moisture level of the soil is constantly monitored resulting in good health of the plants
- Farming is made easy for the farmer as the farmer does not has to be physically present in the farm to water the fields.
- It reduces the wastage of water resulting from excess watering.
DISADVANTAGES
POTENTIAL DRAWBACKS OF THIS MODEL IN PRACTICE
- The module needs to have a constant power supply.
- Initial installation cost is to be incurred which is also kept minimal.