Project Overview

This project implements a smart water level monitoring and control system using an ESP8266 microcontroller, an ultrasonic sensor, and IoT capabilities. The system tracks the water level in a tank and controls a relay to manage water flow based on predefined thresholds. Additionally, it integrates with Blynk for real-time monitoring and notifications.

Project Objectives

1. Real-Time Monitoring: Measure and display water levels in real-time.
2. Automation: Control a relay to maintain water levels between 50% and 95%.
3. IoT Integration: Use the Blynk IoT platform to monitor water levels and receive notifications remotely.
4. User-Friendly Operation: Provide a web-based interface for seamless connectivity and updates.

System Features

1. Water Level Measurement

• Uses an ultrasonic sensor to measure the distance from the sensor to the water surface.
• Calculates water level by subtracting the measured distance from the total tank height.

2. Relay Control

• Automatically switches the relay OFF when the tank is 95% full.
• Automatically switches the relay ON when the tank falls below 50%.
• Ensures optimal water usage and avoids overflows.

3. IoT Integration with Blynk

• Displays the water level on the Blynk mobile application.
• Sends notifications for critical low and high water levels.
• Allows remote monitoring and control.

4. Wi-Fi Auto-Connect

• Uses Wi-Fi Manager for easy configuration of network credentials.
• Ensures reliable and consistent connectivity.

5. Error Handling

• Detects and handles sensor errors, assuming the tank is empty when measurements are invalid or out of range.

Technical Specifications

Hardware Components

1. ESP8266 Microcontroller: Handles sensor readings, IoT connectivity, and relay control.
2. Ultrasonic Sensor (HC-SR04):
   • TRIG pin: Sends a high-frequency sound pulse.
   • ECHO pin: Receives the reflected signal to calculate distance.
3. Relay Module: Controls water flow based on tank levels.
4. Power Supply: 5V power supply for the microcontroller and peripherals.

Software

1. Arduino IDE: Used for programming the ESP8266.
2. Blynk Library: Enables IoT functionality.
3. Wi-Fi Manager: Provides an easy interface for Wi-Fi configuration.

Working Principle

1. Water Level Measurement:
   • The ultrasonic sensor calculates the distance between the sensor and the water surface.
   • The system calculates the water level using the formula:
     Water Level = Tank Height - Measured Distance
2. Relay Control:
   • If the water level ≥ 95%, the relay turns OFF (stopping water flow).
   • If the water level ≤ 50%, the relay turns ON (allowing water flow).
3. IoT Monitoring:
   • The system sends water level data to the Blynk app every 2 seconds.
   • Critical notifications are triggered for levels below 20% or above 90%.

Applications

• Residential: Automates water pump control in homes.
• Commercial: Ensures optimal water usage in industries.
• Agriculture: Monitors water levels in irrigation tanks.

Future Enhancements

1. Mobile Alerts: Add SMS-based alerts for users without smartphones.
2. Energy Efficiency: Integrate solar power for a sustainable setup.
3. Web Dashboard: Provide a web-based dashboard for detailed analytics.

Project Benefits

• Time-Saving: Eliminates the need for manual water level monitoring.
• Cost-Effective: Reduces water wastage and prevents motor damage.
• Scalable: Suitable for small tanks to large reservoirs.
• Remote Access: Allows real-time monitoring from anywhere.

Conclusion

This project provides an efficient and reliable solution for managing water levels. With its combination of IoT integration, automation, and user-friendly features, it addresses the needs of both residential and commercial users. The system is scalable and can be enhanced with additional features like solar power and advanced analytics.