DEVELOPMENT AND EVALUATION OF A SMART IRRIGATION SYSTEM USING SOLAR AND MOISTURE SENSOR
Abstract
This project presents the design and implementation of a smart irrigation system powered by solar energy, aimed at optimizing water usage in agriculture. The system integrates a solar panel, lithium battery, moisture sensor, Wi-Fi module, and a mobile app called Blink. The solar panel charges the lithium battery, which powers the system continuously for 24 hours, with the charge controller ensuring safe battery operation. The moisture sensor collects real-time data from the soil and sends it to the microcontroller, which then determines whether to activate the DC pump to irrigate the soil. The system is designed to provide water to crops precisely when needed, based on the moisture levels detected, thereby conserving water and enhancing crop yield.
This smart irrigation system is particularly beneficial for regions with limited water resources and irregular rainfall patterns, making it highly relevant for agricultural practices in Nigeria. The system’s ability to operate sustainably with solar power and its automation features make it a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution for modern farming. The project also explores the potential for future improvements, including the integration of chlorophyll sensors for better soil health monitoring and the use of Wi-Fi range extenders like TP-Link to support large-scale agricultural operations. This work contributes to the growing field of smart agriculture by offering a practical solution to the challenges of efficient water management and crop health monitoring.
Key words: Smart Irrigation, Water Conservation, Smart Agriculture, Sustainable Agriculture
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