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IOT WATER LEVEL MONITORING SYSTEM
A project study on PROJECT
TITLE : IoT BASED WATER LEVEL
MONITORING
Submitted for review for the
DEGREE PROGRAM : ELECTRONICS AND
TELECOMMUNICATION ENGINEERING
In the Faculty of Computer Engineering Informatics and
Communications by
NAME : ISRAEL TADIWANASHE MADUBA
Academic supervisor: ENG S MADONDO
Industrial supervisor: ENG S MADONDO
2025
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IOT WATER LEVEL MONITORING SYSTEM
Abstract or Executive Summary
This project addresses the limitations of traditional water level monitoring systems by
developing an innovative IoT-based solution. Traditional methods often rely on manual
measurements, which are time-consuming, error-prone, and lack real-time insights. This
project leverages the power of IoT technology, specifically the ESP32 microcontroller and
ultrasonic sensors, to create a system capable of continuous and accurate water level
monitoring. The system transmits data wirelessly to a Blynk cloud platform, providing users
with remote access to real-time water level information via web and mobile dashboards.
Automated control mechanisms, such as a relay-controlled water pump, can be integrated
based on predefined thresholds. This project offers a cost-effective and efficient solution for
various applications, including water tanks, reservoirs, and other water storage systems. The
system's ability to provide real-time data and enable remote control contributes to efficient
water resource management, reduces the risk of water scarcity or overflow, and promotes
sustainable water practices. Future work may include integrating additional sensors for water
quality monitoring and implementing more complex control algorithms.
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Contents
Chapter 1: Introduction......................................................................................................................5
1.1 Problem Statement........................................................................................................................5
1.3 Aim of Study...................................................................................................................................5
1.4 Objectives of Study.........................................................................................................................5
1.5 Research Question(s).......................................................................................................................6
1.6 Research Hypothesis........................................................................................................................6
1.7 Justification/Significance of the Study............................................................................................7
1.8 Instruments and Methods.................................................................................................................7
1.9 Scope of the Study...........................................................................................................................7
1.10 Delimitations and Limitations........................................................................................................7
1.11 Work Plan....................................................................................................................................8
Chapter 2: Literature Review.........................................................................................................9
2.1 Introduction...................................................................................................................................9
Chapter 3: METHODOLOGY.........................................................................................................12
INTRODUCTION...........................................................................................................................12
SOLUTION DESIGN......................................................................................................................12
METHOD OF DESIGN.................................................................................................................13
CHAPTER 4: RESULTS..................................................................................................................15
TEST CASES..................................................................................................................................15
CONCLUSION...............................................................................................................................15
REFERENCES..................................................................................................................................16
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IOT WATER LEVEL MONITORING SYSTEM
List of Symbols and Abbreviations
IoT - Internet of Things
ESP32 - Espressif32
LCD - Liquid Crystal Display
Blynk - IoT platform
V0 - Blynk Virtual Pin 0
V1 - Blynk Virtual Pin 1
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Chapter 1: Introduction
1.1 Problem Statement
Traditional water level monitoring systems for tanks and boreholes are plagued by
inefficiencies, hindering effective water resource management. For instance:
- In water storage tanks, manual measurements, and periodic inspections can lead to delayed
detection of leaks or overflows, resulting in wasted water and potential environmental
hazards like floods and diseases.
- In boreholes, the lack of real-time monitoring can cause pumps to run dry, leading to
equipment damage and increased energy costs.
The reliance on manual measurements and periodic inspections results in:
- Time-consuming data collection processes
- Error-prone measurements
- Lack of real-time insights
These limitations increases the risks associated with water scarcity and flooding,
underscoring the need for a more robust and efficient monitoring system that can provide
timely and accurate data for informed decision-making.
1.3 Aim of Study
The primary aim of this project is to design and implement an IoT-based water level
monitoring system that provides real-time water level information, remote access, and
automated control capabilities.
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1.4 Objectives of Study
To develop a system using an ultrasonic sensor to accurately measure water levels.
To interface the sensor with an ESP32 microcontroller for data processing and
communication.
To implement a Blynk platform for data visualization and remote control via web and
mobile interfaces.
To integrate a relay module for automated water pump control based on water level
thresholds.
To test and evaluate the performance and accuracy of the developed system.
1.5 Research Question(s)
How can an ultrasonic sensor be effectively used to measure water levels in real-time?
How can the ESP32 microcontroller be programmed to process sensor data and
communicate with the Blynk platform?
How can the Blynk platform be utilized to visualize water level data and provide remote
control capabilities?
How can a relay module be integrated to automate water pump control based on water level
thresholds?
1.6 Research Hypothesis
The ultrasonic sensor will provide accurate and reliable water level measurements.
The ESP32 microcontroller will successfully process sensor data and communicate with the
Blynk platform.
The Blynk platform will effectively visualize water level data and enable remote control.
The relay module will accurately control the water pump based on predefined water level
thresholds.
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1.7 Justification/Significance of the Study
This project is significant because it offers a practical and cost-effective solution for
improving water level management. The real-time data and remote control capabilities
provided by the system can significantly improve water resource utilization, reduce water
waste, Save energy and prevent water-related accidents. This system has potential
applications in various sectors, including agriculture, domestic water supply, and industrial
water management.
1.8 Instruments and Methods
This project uses an ultrasonic sensor (HC-SR04) to measure water levels. The sensor is
interfaced with an ESP32 microcontroller, which processes the data and sends it to the Blynk
cloud platform via Wi-Fi. The Blynk platform provides a user interface for monitoring water
levels and controlling a relay module connected to a water pump. The system is programmed
using the Arduino IDE.
1.9 Scope of the Study
This project focuses on the design and implementation of a water level monitoring and
control system using an ultrasonic sensor, ESP32, and Blynk. It does not include water
quality monitoring or other aspects of water resource management.
1.10 Delimitations and Limitations
Delimitation: The project is limited to a single water tank/reservoir setup.
Limitation: The accuracy of the ultrasonic sensor may be affected by environmental factors
like temperature or humidity. Network connectivity issues could also impact data
transmission.
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1.11 Work Plan
Task Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 Week 6 Week 7
Phase 1: Project Setup & Research (1 week)
Literature Revi X X
Component SeleX X
Phase 2: System Development (4 weeks)
Ultrasonic Sensor Interfacing ( X X
ESP32 Programming (Arduino I X X X
Blynk Platform Integration X X
Relay Module Integration & Testing X
Phase 3: System Testing & Refinement (2 weeks) X
System Testing (Accuracy, Reliability) X
Software/Hardware Refinement & Debugging X
Phase 4: Documentation & Presentation (1 week) X
Report Writing & Documentation X
Project Presentation Preparation X
1.12 Conclusion
This chapter has introduced the project, outlining the background, problem definition, aim,
objectives, research questions, hypothesis, justification, methodology, scope, and limitations.
The next chapter will review the relevant literature on water level monitoring techniques and
IoT applications.
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Chapter 2: Literature Review
2.1 Introduction
[1]Effective water level management is crucial for optimizing water usage, mitigating water
scarcity, and managing flood risks. Traditional manual monitoring methods are often
inaccurate and time-consuming. The Internet of Things (IoT) offers a promising solution
through real-time monitoring, automated control, and data-driven decision-making making it
a big potential for automatic irrigation schemes. Cloud platform integration enables remote
access and in-depth data analysis. This literature review explores existing research and
developments in automated water level monitoring, focusing on the use of ultrasonic sensors
within IoT frameworks.
2.2 Water Level Monitoring Techniques
[2]Several techniques are employed for water level monitoring, each with its own advantages
and limitations. Traditional methods, such as manual measurements and periodic inspections,
are labor-intensive, prone to human error, and lack real-time capabilities. Modern techniques
offer improved accuracy and automation.
Pressure Transducers: These devices measure the pressure exerted by a fluid, which is
directly related to the water level. Different types of pressure transducers exist, including
capacitive and piezoresistive. While generally accurate, pressure transducers can be affected
by factors like temperature, fluid density, and the presence of debris. Capacitive transducers,
as mentioned in the original text, can experience issues with residual liquid affecting
readings, particularly with viscous fluids, leading to response lag.
Ultrasonic Sensors: These sensors use ultrasonic waves to measure the distance to the water
surface. They offer non-contact measurement, making them suitable for various applications
and avoiding contamination issues. The time taken for the ultrasonic pulse to travel to the
water surface and back is proportional to the distance, which is then translated to a water
level reading. However, factors like temperature, humidity, and the presence of foam or
turbulence on the water surface can affect the accuracy of ultrasonic sensors.
Radar Level Sensors: Similar to ultrasonic sensors, radar level sensors use electromagnetic
waves in the microwave frequency range. They are less susceptible to environmental factors
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like temperature and pressure changes, making them suitable for harsh conditions. However,
they tend to be more expensive than ultrasonic sensors.
Float Sensors: These mechanical sensors use a float that rises and falls with the water level.
The float's movement is then translated into a reading using a potentiometer or other
mechanism. Float sensors are simple and relatively inexpensive, but they can be affected by
mechanical wear and tear, and are not suitable for all types of liquids.
Shaft Encoders: As mentioned in the original text, shaft encoders can be used in conjunction
with float sensors or other mechanical level measurement devices to provide digital feedback
on the water level. They convert the rotational motion of a shaft into a digital signal, allowing
for precise measurement and control.
2.3 IoT Integration for Water Level Monitoring
[3]Integrating water level sensors with IoT platforms offers significant advantages. Real-time
data acquisition, remote monitoring, and automated control become possible. The data
collected by the sensors can be transmitted wirelessly to a central server or cloud platform for
storage, processing, and visualization. This allows users to access water level information
from anywhere with an internet connection, enabling timely interventions and informed
decision-making.
2.4 Ultrasonic Sensors in IoT-based Systems
[3] Ultrasonic sensors are widely used in IoT-based water level monitoring due to their ease
of integration, non-contact measurement, and relatively low cost. Their data can be easily
interfaced with microcontrollers like the ESP32, which then transmits the data to a cloud
platform via Wi-Fi or other communication protocols. The Blynk platform, as mentioned in
the original text, is a popular choice for visualizing and managing IoT sensor data, providing
user-friendly dashboards and remote control capabilities.
2.5 Challenges and Future Directions
[4]Despite the advancements in IoT-based water level monitoring, several challenges remain:
Connectivity: Reliable internet connectivity is crucial for data transmission and remote
access. In remote areas or areas with poor network coverage, alternative communication
technologies like LoRaWAN or satellite communication may be necessary.
Sensor Accuracy and Reliability: Environmental factors can affect the accuracy and
reliability of sensors. Calibration, regular maintenance, and sensor fusion techniques
(combining data from multiple sensors) can help improve accuracy.
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Power Management: For remote deployments, power consumption is a critical concern.
Low-power microcontrollers and energy-efficient communication protocols are essential.
Solar power or battery-powered solutions may be necessary.
Data Security: Protecting the sensor data from unauthorized access is important. Secure
communication protocols and data encryption techniques should be implemented.
Scalability: Deploying and managing a large number of water level monitoring systems can
be challenging. Scalable IoT platforms and efficient data management strategies are needed.
Future research directions include:
Developing more robust and accurate sensors that are less susceptible to environmental
factors.
Exploring the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning for data analysis and
predictive maintenance.
Integrating water level monitoring systems with other environmental monitoring systems for
a more holistic view of water resources.
Developing standardized protocols and platforms for IoT-based water management systems.
2.6 Conclusion
This literature review has examined various water level monitoring techniques and
highlighted the potential of IoT integration for improved water resource management.
Ultrasonic sensors have emerged as a popular choice for IoT-based systems due to their ease
of use and non-contact measurement capabilities. While challenges related to connectivity,
sensor accuracy, and data security remain, ongoing research and development are addressing
these issues. Future advancements in sensor technology, data analytics, and IoT platforms
will further enhance the effectiveness and scalability of water level monitoring systems,
contributing to more sustainable water management practices.
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Chapter 3: METHODOLOGY
INTRODUCTION
The methodology chapter introduces the approach utilized to develop an IoT-based water
level monitoring system using an ultrasonic sensor. It outlines the research design, data
collection methods, hardware and software components, data processing techniques, and
ethical considerations. The chapter provides a clear and systematic description of the
methodology employed, acting as a guide for understanding the project's implementation and
ensuring the reliability of the results. It sets the foundation for subsequent chapters, enabling
readers to comprehend the approach taken, replicate the study, and evaluate the project's
outcomes.
SOLUTION DESIGN
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METHOD OF DESIGN
Step 1
Proceed to individually position the LEDs onto the breadboard. Afterward, establish
connections between the resistors and the anode pins of each respective LED.
Step 2
Connected the LEDs to the ESP32 board
Step 3
Connect the LCD screen, ultrasonic sensor, and relay module to the ESP32 board.
Step 4
Set up the Blynk web dashboard
Step 5
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Connected the ESP32 board to the computer and design an Arduino IDE program for the
system
Step 6
Set up the Blynk mobile dashboard
Step 7
Connect the water pump to the relay module.
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CHAPTER 4: RESULTS
TEST CASES
If the ultrasonic sensor detects the level of water above the programmed full height, it sends a
signal to the Blynk software that notifies the user who then can turn the water pump. If the
water level is detected to be low and suggesting that the tank is empty the software also
notifies the user that the tank is empty and then the user can turn the water pump on. The
water pump can also turn itself on and off when it reaches a certain level, and the threshold
can be setup in the code.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the IoT based Water Level Monitoring System using an Ultrasonic sensor
harnesses the power of the ESP32 and the precision of the Ultrasonic sensor to ensure optimal
water level management and power consumption. By leveraging the capabilities of IoT and
the precision of the ultrasonic sensing technology, this project has successfully addressed the
challenges associated with the monitoring of water levels in various applications such as
tanks, water bodies and reservoirs. With real-time water level data displayed on an LCD
display screen, users are kept informed not only about the tanks’ or water level condition but
also about the active status of the water pump. The project’s IoT integration also opens doors
for automation and intelligent water management. By leveraging the sensor data and applying
analytics techniques, it is possible to develop predictive models and algorithms. These
algorithms can provide insights into water consumption patterns, detect anomalies and
optimize water distribution systems. As a result, water resources can be utilized more
efficiently, reducing wastage and promoting sustainable practices.
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REFERENCES
[1]OECD, "Sustainable Management of Water Resources In Agriculture," 1st ed. Paris,
France: OECD, 2010.
[2] Centre international pour la sécurité et la gestion durable de l'eau, "WATER SECURITY
AND SUSTAIINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS, GLOBAL WATER SECURITY
ISSUES SERIES" 1st ed. Paris, France: UNESCO, 2019.
[3] SrituHobby, "How to make a water level monitoring system with ESP32 board and
Blynk," [Online]. Available: https://srituhobby.com/how-to-make-a-water-level-monitoring-
system-with-esp32-board-and-blynk/. [Accessed: 05/ 02, 2024].
[4] "Automatic Plant Watering System with Arduino & Soil Moisture Sensor,"
How2Electronics, [Online]. Available: https://how2electronics.com/automatic-plant-
watering-system-with-arduino-soil-moisture-sensor/. [Accessed: Month Day, Year].
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