AWTS: AUTOMATED WATERING TECH-SYSTEM WITH MOISTURE AND

TEMPERATURE SENSOR

Capstone Design Project

Submitted to the Faculty of
Science Technology and Engineering Mathematics
Luis Y. Ferrer Jr. Senior High School
General Trias, Cavite

RODMAR A. PERIA
HARGEISA MIKA IRIS B. JOSOL
CHRISTIAN HAROLD N. LEAÑO
ANN S. REYES
APRIELLE ANNE C. FELIZARDO
JUNE 2021

i
 BIOGRAPHICAL DATA

Rodmar Alcantara Peria was born on 22th of August 2001 at City of General

Trias, Cavite. He is currently living in Barangay Pasong Camachile, City of General Trias,

Cavite. He is the third child among three siblings in the family. His mother’s name is Mrs.

Marline A. Peria and his father is Mr. Roger F. Peria. He has two sisters named Princess

Dian A. Peria and Jessice A. Peria.

He finished his Elementary at General Trias Memorial Elementary School in

Barangay San Juan 1, City of General Trias, Cavite. He became a boy scout and journalist

in that school. He finished his secondary schooling in Governor Ferrer Memorial National

High School-Main at Barangay Pinagtipunan, City of General Trias, Cavite and graduate

as with honors and receive an award for excellence in Computer System Servicing in ICT,

he also served in Supreme Student Government. He is currently studying and continuing

his dreams to become a successful programmer in Luis Y. Ferrer Jr. Senior High School.

He desires to graduate at Cavite State University with the course Electronics and

Communication Engineering. He has his interest in programming and hopes to be an

electronic engineer one day.

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 BIOGRAPHICAL DATA

Hargeisa Mika Iris Benjamin Josol was born in Taguig City on the 10th day of

November in the year 2002. She is currently living at Richmond Park Townhomes Phase 2

at Barangay Navarro, General Trias, Cavite. She is the only child of Vanessa B. Josol and

Richard D. Josol.

She finished her Elementary school at D.F. Tinkerbell School, Inc. at Taguig City

and graduated as the Class Valedictorian. She spent her Secondary school at Governor

Ferrer Memorial National High School-Main where she graduated as with High Honors.

She is currently a senior high school student taking the STEM strand at Luis Y. Ferrer Jr.

Senior High School at General Trias, Cavite. Her interests lie in the field of Medicine with

an ambition of becoming a pharmacist.

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 BIOGRAPHICAL DATA

Christian Harold Navarez Leaño was born on the 7th of October in the year 2002

at Trece Martires City, Cavite. He is currently living in Barangay Pinagtipunan, General

Trias City, Cavite. He is an only child in their family. His parent's names are Mr. Rodrigo

T. Leaño Jr. and Carene N. Leaño. He was raised and purely grew up in Cavite.

The Researcher finished his Primary and Elementary years in General Artemio

Ricarte Memorial School in Barangay Poblacion, General Trias City, Cavite and graduated

as an honor student. During elementary years, he participated in various competitions such

as “Mathrathon”, Math quiz bee, Journalism, Team reading, etc. He pursued his Junior

High School years at Governor Ferrer Memorial National High School - Main located at

Pinagtipunan, General Trias City, Cavite as an Honor student. He is currently pursuing his

Senior High School Years in Luis Y Ferrer. He is interested in the field of mathematics and

is dreaming of becoming a professional civil engineer someday.

iv
 BIOGRAPHICAL DATA

Ann Santos Reyes was born on the 17th of September in the year 2003 at General

Trias, City of Cavite. She currently resides in Grand Riverside Subdivision, Pasong

Camachile I. She is the eldest among the three children of the family and she was raised by

her parents namely, Sahlee S. Reyes and Fernando P. Reyes. She has two siblings, the

second born is Lee S. Reyes and the youngest is Sum S. Reyes.

The researcher pursued her Elementary years at Claremont School of General Trias

Cavite inside the Grand Riverside Subdivision and then pursued his Junior High School at

Blessed Maria Cristina Brando School where she received a recognition as one of the honor

students of her class during her 7th grade to 9th grade. She transferred school during his

10th grade at Santiago National High School and finished her year as an honor student. She

is currently attending at Luis Y. Ferrer Jr. Senior High School as a Senior High School

Student. She takes an interest in the field of Pediatrics and aspires to become a licensed

medical professional one day.

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 BIOGRAPHICAL DATA

Aprielle Anne Caber Felizardo, Born on November 30th, 2002. She graduated

her primary education at the Parañaque Central Elementary school which she has given

various awards in different aspects, she continued studying her secondary education at the

Caloocan City Business High School (CCBHS) and graduated as Batch 2016. She

transferred to Olivarez college to accomplish her 2 years extension of grade 11 and 12, but

because of some fortunate event she continued studying at Luis Y. Ferrer Jr. Senior High

school as a Grade 12 STEM student. The researcher was doing her best in school so that

she can climb to the top and accomplish her dreams. She dreams of becoming an engineer

someday and hopes for achieving a master’s degree in civil engineering.

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The completion of this thesis wouldn’t be possible without the assistance of many

people who the researchers are truly grateful for. In honor of their contributions, the

researchers would like to express their appreciation and indebtedness to the following

people:

Special thanks are due to their thesis adviser, Ms. Judy Ann T. Nasuli, for her efforts

in supervising the researchers throughout research days, and for sharing her knowledge to

further give insights, encouragement and deepen the researcher’s understanding in their

thesis that helped them see Research as a way to understand life and contribute something

for the betterment of the community. To Mr. Sydney Bajenting, who made an effort in

critiquing and giving remarks for the improvement of the product as well as the research

study.

To the school principal, Ma’am Sally P. Genuino, for her utmost support and

continuous guidance, reminders and motivations to complete the research study.

To their Parents, who gave their endless support and tremendous sacrifices to

ensure that they are taught with wisdom and high integrity. Their guidance, financial

support, and encouragement helped the researchers to fulfill their study;

To their classmates and friends, for the good and bad moments that brought them

together and learn leadership, cooperation, and teamwork.

The researchers would like to extend their sincere gratitude to those people who

took part in the research study but are failed to mention.

vii
 And above all, to the ALMIGHTY GOD, because of His everlasting love, bountiful

blessings and faith that gave the researchers hope, strength, determination, wisdom, and

passion to complete the research study.

RODMAR A. PERIA

HARGEISA MIKA IRIS B. JOSOL

CHRISTIAN HAROLD N. LEAÑO

ANN S. REYES

APRIELLE ANN C. FELIZARDO

viii
 ABSTRACT

PERIA, RODMAR A., JOSOL, HARGEISA MIKA IRIS B., LEAÑO, CHRISTIAN
HAROLD N., REYES, ANN S., and FELIZARDO, APRIELLE ANNE C., (AWTS:
AUTOMATED WATERING TECH-SYSTEM WITH MOISTURE AND PHOTO
SENSOR). Capstone Design Project. Science, Technology and Engineering Mathematics
(STEM). Luis Y. Ferrer Jr. Senior High School, General Trias, Cavite. June 2021. Adviser:
Ms. Judy Ann T. Nasuli

The study was conducted from March 2021 to June 2021 at Luis Y. Ferrer Jr. Senior

High School, General Trias, Cavite. The study is mainly focused on designing, assembling,

and assessing the effectivity of the watering tech-system. Specifically, the objectives of the

study are to: 1.) Design and construct an Arduino-based automated plant watering system;

2.) Program the system to monitor the soil’s moisture and surrounding temperature; 3.)

Develop the program system using Arduino software; 4.) Compare the growth of Brassica

rapa subsp. chinensis (Chinese cabbage) with and without the use of the device; 5.) Test

and evaluate the automatic watering tech-system to assess the effectiveness of the final

product; 6.) Calculate cost computation of the proposed device.

The product was developed using Arduino R3, soil moisture sensor to detect the

moisture level of the soil, LM35 temperature sensor that detects heat from the surrounding

of the proposed product, solenoid valve to regulate fluid control, Polyethylene UV plastic

sheet for blocking harmful UV rays from the sun, 5V relay that was used as a switch for

the solenoid valve, PVC pipe to and Styrofoam used as the base of the product.

The project device was tested at Pasong Kawayan II beside the house of one of the

researchers through which the functions and overall performance are assessed.

Furthermore, a second set-up was conducted without the proposed device to validate the

significant difference of the moisture content and temperature between set-up A (with

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device) and set-up B (without device) using T-Test to obtain statistical data. The evaluation

was done in the school garden of Luis Y. Ferrer Jr. Senior High School where the device’s:

A.) Performance and Function, B.) Usability, C.) Contribution to Environment, D.)

Reliability, and E.) Economical and Overall Condition was assessed.

Based on the statistical result, there was a “significant difference” between the

temperatures of set-up a and set-up b. On the other hand, the data between the moisture

content from both set-ups showed that there’s “no significant difference”. The evaluation

for the device gained an “acceptable” score which means that the proposed device is

functional.

The total cost of the proposed project was P1922.00

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

BIOGRAPHICAL DATA…………….………………………….…………..…. ii
ACKNOWLEDGMENT……………………………………………………….. vii
ABSTRACT………………………………………………………….…............ ix
INTRODUCTION……………………..…….…………………………………. 1
Statement of the Problem……………….…………………………........ 2
Objectives of the Study……………….………………………………... 3
Significance of the Study……..….…….……………………….…….... 3
Scope and Limitations of the Study …………………………………… 4
Time and Place of the Study ……..…………….……………….. ….………… 5
Definition of Terms……………………..…………………………..…………. 5
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE……..………………...................….. 6
METHODOLOGY…………………..……………………………………........ 9
Materials……………………………………………………………...... 9
Conceptual Framework ……………………………………………….. 11
Methods………………………………………………………………… 12
Overview…………………………….……..…………………………... 12
Designing of the Automatic Watering System ………………………… 12
Construction of Soil Moisture Module…..………...…………………... 12
Construction of the Temperature Sensor...…………………………….. 13
Construction of the Watering System…………………………………. 13
Testing and Evaluation………………………………………………… 13
Cost Computation……………………………………………………… 14
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION………………………..………..……….. …. 16
System Description…………………….………………………...……. 16
Principle of Operation………………………………………………..... 17
Soil Moisture Sensor………………………………………………….. 19
LM35 Temperature Sensor..................................................................... 20
5V Relay Module…………………………………………………....... 22
Testing and Evaluation………………………………………………... 23
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION, AND RECOMMENDATIONS………….. 26
Summary……………………………………………………………… 26
Conclusion…………………………………………………………… 27
Recommendation……………………………………………………… 28
REFERENCES………………………………………………………………. 29
APPENDIX………………………………………………………………….. xi
AWTS: AUTOMATED WATERING TECH-SYSTEM WITH MOISTURE AND PHOTO

SENSOR

Rodmar A. Peria
Hargeisa Mika Iris B. Josol
Christian Harold N. Leaño
Ann S. Reyes
Aprielle Anne C. Felizardo

A design project outline submitted to the faculty of the Department of Science, Technology and
Engineering Mathematics (STEM), Luis Y. Ferrer Jr. Senior High School, General Trias, Cavite
in partial fulfillment of the requirements for Senior High School Capstone Project. Contribution
No.________. Prepared under the supervision of Ms. Judy Ann T. Nasuli.

INTRODUCTION

A sensible automated irrigation framework proposes an efficient way to produce

good quality crops that utilizes the use of Arduino, soil moisture sensor and temperature

sensor as the main components of an automated irrigation system. Different schemes and

parameters set standards to the design of the automated irrigation system. The automated

watering tech-system uses sensors that will monitor the soil moisture content and

temperature that will trigger the automatic watering which limits the human intervention

and lessen water loss. It acts as a supporting tool for farmers and gardeners to boost

productivity and increase the yield of crops.

According to a related study, Current Challenges in Agricultural Water Resource

Development and Management in the Philippines (Inocencio, A., 2018), Philippines is

facing water crisis. Water demands aside from agricultural purposes is increasing which

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interferes the water supply needed for growing crops. Thus, improving water management

and addressing concerns regarding water productivity will help pursue solutions regarding

these problems. More so, this study was conducted to address solution to the said issue by

designing an automated watering-tech system using Arduino.

The project is focused on constructing an automated watering system using Arduino

R3 as its microcontroller. Soil moisture sensor and temperature sensor was used to monitor

moisture content and temperature, respectively. The device was compared to a second set-

up wherein manual watering is done to check whether the proposed device is efficient and

operational. The project was beneficial to help farmers and local gardeners to increase their

productivity and lessen water loss.

Statement of the Problem

This research study specifically seeks to find the answers to these questions:

1. How does the design of the product help in conserving water?

2. How are the data different from both set-up a and set-up b?

3. How does the proposed product benefit farmers and local gardeners?

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Objectives of the Study

The primary objective of the study is to design and create an automatic watering

tech-system for indoor and outdoor gardens.

Specifically, it aims to:

1. Design and construct an Arduino-based automated plant watering system;

2. Program the system to monitor the soil’s moisture and surrounding

temperature;

3. Develop the program system using Arduino IDE;

4. Determine the significant difference of the data collected;

5. Test and evaluate the automatic watering tech-system to assess the

effectiveness of the final product;

6. Calculate cost computation of the proposed device.

Significance of the Study

The study intends to construct an Arduino-based irrigation system that monitors the

soil moisture and surrounding temperature of Brassica rapa. Farmers and local gardeners

are responsible for producing quality crops, however due to large agricultural field farmers

had a hard time watering their crops. In addition, manual watering takes up their time and

may delay other important activities related to farming. It is also one of the factors of water

wastage. Based on the aforementioned, this Arduino-based watering tech-system reduces

human interaction by saving farmer’s time, effort, and increase the production level of

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crops. Additionally, the device’s purpose is to promote water conservation. This proposed

device can be used as a substitute for farm machines as it handles even simple task which

is watering. Moreover, this watering tech-system benefits farmers and gardeners

economically.

The study is of great help to future students and researchers who wishes to use this

study as a reference to further expand current knowledge regarding the development of

automated irrigation systems.

Scope and Limitations of the Study

The study is focused on designing the automated watering tech-system using

Arduino R3 as the microcontroller for the soil moisture sensor, temperature sensor, 5V

relay module, and solenoid valve. The study will only use one type of plant, Brassica rapa

chinensis as it requires consistent moisture and moderate heat level to grow properly.

Polyethylene UV plastic sheet was used to block harmful UV rays from the sun instead of

other garden tarpaulins. The data for moisture content and temperature for set-up A (with

device) and set-up B (without device) is scheduled every day at 6:00 p.m., 6:00 a.m., and

12:00 p.m. Instead of temperature sensor, a phone is used for the temperature reading in

set-up B. The data gathered were used to compare if the moisture and temperature reading

between the two set-ups have significant difference. The study used Arduino IDE to

develop the system. Other factors such as humidity, radiation, pH level, pest control, water

quality, water pressure, and fertilization management are within the limitations of the

study.

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Time and Place of the Study

The study was conducted at Pasong Kawayan II, City of General Trias and at Luis

Y. Ferrer Jr. Senior High School from March 2021 to June 2021.

Definition of Terms

This section gives a short description of definitions that might encounter the paper.

Irrigation. An artificial process of watering land as a means for cultivating crops.

Communal Irrigation System. Small-scale irrigation system wherein farmers are

responsible for managing.

Brassica rapa chinensis. Commonly known as Chinese cabbage or Pechay in the

Philippines.

Polyethylene UV plastic sheet. A type of plastic film that is treated with UV

resistant commonly used for greenhouse projects.

Arduino R3. The third and newest generation of Arduino Uno. A small breadboard

designed for beginners for its exceptional function and various applications.

Arduino IDE. Software used to write codes and upload it to an Arduino board.

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 REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

The review of related literature includes research studies, journals, blogs, and

articles related to the construction of an automated watering tech-system. The following

literature provides an overview of scientific works that was used in the investigation and

supports concepts and other critical information presented in the study to fully understand

the conducted project.

Origin of Irrigation

Evidence of irrigation can be found in middle East at Jordan Valley. Concurrently,

it was also believed that Egypt practiced irrigation until this knowledge expanded from one

continent to another. Different strategies and schemes are introduced in irrigation and was

believed by some anthropologists and historians that the development of irrigation became

the fundamental key to civilization. However, there were cases wherein ancient irrigation

caused severe destruction of soil, reservoirs, and irrigation channels due to siltation and

erosion (Sojka et al., 2002). Because of the ancient irrigation system, modernity gave way

to provide early studies, prior knowledge and understanding, and the inauguration of

advanced irrigation designs.

Communal Irrigation System in the Philippines

According to NIA, out of 1.731 million ha of irrigated land there are about 615, 797

ha under communal irrigation system (CIS) in the Philippines which are being managed by

farmers as of December 2015. Communal irrigation system only covers small-scale

irrigation; however, CIS in the Philippines displays issues regarding inadequate water

supply and unreliable source of water. Although CIS also relies on unreliable water supply

6
especially in dry season, the source of water must be assessed to maintain a consistent flow,

reliable, and low sediment discharges (Luyun and Elazegui, 2019).

Automated Irrigation System using Arduino

Based on an International Journal, A Review on Arduino Based Smart Irrigation

system, G. Khan et al., (2018) concluded that a remote irrigation framework provides an

effective feedback in limiting human intervention. Automated irrigation framework utilizes

its capacity to monitor ecological parameters such as soil moisture, temperature, pH, sun

radiation, and other deemed essentials in the growth and proliferation of a plant.

Pechay: Optimizing Soil Moisture and Temperature

Applied Horticultural Research (AHR) collaborated on a research project,

Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), that aims to provide

Filipino Farmers in the Southern Philippines to increase their productivity. The practice

guide focuses on different types of crops. As highlighted in their “Pechay – field

production”, Brassica rapa flourish when planted at a loamy soil with an optimum

temperature of 18 to 20 °C. Aside from that, a journal article (Kim and Jeon, 2009)

determines the least soil moisture content of different crops at which germination occurs

and found that at 44.0%, seed germination occurred for Brassica rapa (Chinese Cabbage).

Growing Crops using Polystyrene

Rubio (2018), wrote an article, Dealing with Polystyrene Wastes, through

which she pointed out that the mass production of Polystyrene, also known as EPS foam

or Styrofoam, is considered to contribute negative environmental impacts since EPS foam

adds up as a pollution and takes thousands of years to decompose. Nonetheless, EPS foam

offers great benefits to agricultural means. EPS foams are great insulators which provides

protection for the root of the plant or seedlings caused by winter frost and summer heat.

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Moreover, it is also good for moisture retention, avoids rotting, and helps plant to nurture

against adverse conditions. The EPS foam is lightweight hence it can be move around but

may be destroyed when it is affected by factors that causes huge impact (Coleby-Williams,

2020). Because of its characteristic, it is capable of growing plants which makes it ideal for

practicing horticulture as well as for making mini gardens.

The use of Polyethylene Sheet in Gardening

As stated in “Pechay – protected cropping” guide from AHR, pechay

production in Eastern Visayas was sheltered by means of protected cropping in which a

low tunnel structure was covered with netting and UV-treated plastic film was used to

lessen impact from other objects and enable light to be permeated through the structure.

Another information regarding Polyethylene was cited from a blog from

TerraCast (2016). Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE) can withstand great impact

due to its durability, flexibility, and strength. Many manufacturers use LLDPE in the

production of, ice bags, garbage bags, stretch film, agricultural film, etc. (Omnexus).

Linear Low-Density Polyethylene is resistant to UV rays; however, it can also be treated

with UV-treatment to prolong its life expectancy (TerraCast, 2016).

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 MATERIALS AND METHODS

The materials and method in the study is discussed in this section. It provides the

function and specification of the materials used in the device.

Materials

Arduino R3. The proposed device used Arduino R3 as its microcontroller. It is an

ATmega328P based microcontroller. It has a 5V operating voltage. There are only 14 input

and output pins enough for all the components. However, it is not enough to support crystal

LED.

Soil Moisture Sensor. It was used in the study to gauge the volumetric content of

water in the soil. It was programmed using Arduino IDE that when the moisture level hits

below 50%, it will operate to activate the watering system.

LM35 Temperature Sensor. This temperature sensor had only three pins; the

VCC, Analog Out, and Ground. It was used in the study as it can only measure temperature

from -55°C to 150°C. It only measures room or surrounding temperature with an accuracy

of 0.5°C.

Printed Circuit Board. It is a small circuit where connections are soldered so that

the wirings are in a fixed position. It is much more durable and looks finished than using a

breadboard.

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 PVC Pipe. It is a material made up of plastic and vinyl combination. Because of its

durability, strength, and resistance to impact, it is commonly used for water systems which

makes it easier for water to flow.

5V Relay Module. It operates at 5V DC. It includes six pins namely Signal Pin,

VCC Pin, Ground Pin, Common Pin, NC Pin, and NO Pin. It is operated by a small electric

current that can turn the larger electric current on and off. It functions like a switch wherein

it uses an electromagnet, a coil that becomes a magnet when electricity passed through it.

12V Adapter. It is the main source of power used in the device. Although solar

panels are also good, using a 12V adapter is much more efficient and cheaper. When

electricity is not available in the area, a 12V battery could be used as a substitute.

Polyethylene UV Plastic Sheet. A UV-treated agricultural film commonly used as

a shed to limit the heat circulating in the surrounding area of the plants or crops. Using

heavy or thick agricultural tarpaulins will not give enough sunlight for the plants compared

to a Polyethylene sheet where it is more durable, flexible, and resistant to scratches and

impacts.

Styrofoam. A kind of polystyrene foam that has a good insulating property and is

commonly used in Agriculture as a plant box. It is durable, lightweight, and has water

retention. Using this kind of material reduces pollution in the environment as long as this

foam is recycled for better use.

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Conceptual Framework

INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT

1. In designing the device, 1. Soil Moisture
Arduino, soil moisture, and sensor monitors the
1. Design and
LM35 was the main components moisture content
construct an
of the study. and a temperature
automated watering-
sensor that detects
tech system,
the surrounding
2. Microcontroller is the heart temperature of the
of the device as it commands device.
and operates the components
2. Data gathered
2. Build a second set- attached to it.
was analyzed and
up to compare data
interpreted for
needed.
conclusion.
3. The system was programmed
using the Arduino IDE. To fully 3. Provides an
3. Develop a program establish system functions. efficient watering
using Arduino 1DE. and promotes water
conservation and
4. An initial evaluation, final limits human
4. Test and evaluate evaluation and statistical intervention.
the performance of evaluation was conducted to
4. Overall design
the device. assess the overall quality of the
and performance
device.
was determined.

11
Methods

Overview. The development of an automatic watering system needs multiple parts

and components working together in monitoring the soil moisture which will then activate

the watering system. The system includes two main operations. First is the operation of the

sensors which are soil moisture sensor and temperature sensor, and the last operation is the

data logging and activation of watering system using the microcontroller. The device uses

a 12V power adaptor as the power source. The process flow of these operations is provided

in the following sections.

Designing of the Automatic Watering System. The watering system includes a

microcontroller as the main part, a soil moisture sensor, temperature sensor, PVC pipe, UV

plastic sheet, and a 12V power adapter as the power source. Styrofoam is used as the base

of the automatic watering system which will be the container for the soil. The soil moisture

sensor is used to monitor the moisture level of the soil which will decide whether it is time

to water the plants. The temperature sensor is used to monitor the temperature of the

surrounding of the plants. The data that will be collected by the sensors will be displayed

to the serial monitor in the software used which is Arduino Uno IDE. (For Reference see

Figure 12 in Appendix.)

Construction of Soil Moisture Module. A soil moisture sensor is used to monitor

the soil’s moisture level that will be sent back to the soil moisture module to the Arduino

which will then decide if the plant needs watering or not. This data that is monitored by the

soil moisture sensor will be recorded by the Arduino microcontroller and displayed in the

serial monitor of the software. This is made to efficiently monitor and utilize the moisture

level of the soil which will help the plant’s growth efficiently. (See Figure 13)

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 Construction of the Temperature Sensor. The temperature sensor is used to

monitor the temperature of the surrounding of the setup to know if the UV plastic sheet is

effective in reducing the heat that the plants are receiving from the sun. The LM35 sensor

is used for this setup because it is effective in measuring temperature anywhere between -

55°C to 150°C. The data coming from the LM35 sensor will then be also displayed in the

serial monitor of the software Arduino Uno IDE.

Construction of the Watering System. The watering system includes a solenoid

valve which will be automatically controlled by a relay module that is connected to the

Arduino microcontroller. The solenoid valve will be the open and close pathway of the

water which is connected to the PVC pipe which will be the to distribute the water to the

soil and plants. The relay module is the one that controls whether the solenoid valve will

be opened or not depending on the data that the microcontroller will gather from the sensors

to activate the relay module. This set-up will efficiently use water because the solenoid

valve will only open when the soil moisture level is below the desired amount of soil

moisture content. The solenoid valve will then be closed if the soil moisture level is within

the desired soil moisture content. (See Figure 14)

Testing and Evaluation

A. Preliminary. The initial testing was held at Pasong Kawayan II, General Trias,

Cavite. The potential of the device to water automatically and regulate temperature through

UV plastic sheet was observed by the researchers. Checking the device’s status and

performance was done to see if it is operational and efficient. Testing the device will prove

that it meets the expectation and desired output of the researchers.

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 • Statistical Analysis. The Two-sample T-test Assuming Equal Variances

was used as the statistical analysis for this study. It will determine if there is a

significant difference between the means of temperature in set-up a and set-up b

and the difference between the means of moisture content in both set-ups.

B. Final Evaluation. The final evaluation of the product was held at Luis Y. Ferrer

Jr. Senior High School. The device’s Performance and Function, Usability, Contribution to

Environment, Reliability, and Economical and Overall Condition was assessed.

Cost Computation. The expenses for constructing the device were shown in the

table below. Some materials were ordered online, and some are bought in local hardware

store.

Quantity Description Specifications Unit Cost Total Cost

(Php) (Php)

1 Arduino R3 -ATmega328P 999.00 999.00

based
microcontroller
- 5V voltage
- 14 input

2 Soil Moisture - Analog 86.50 173.00

- 5V DC
Sensor
- <20 mA

LM35 - Temperature
2 70.00 140.00
range of -55°C to
Temperature 150°C
- 0.5 °C Ensured
Sensor Accuracy

14
 1 Printed Circuit - Small circuit 85.00 85.00
where
Board connections are
soldered so that
the wirings are in
a fixed position

2 90.00 180.00
-Approximately 2
PVC Pipe
inches 1 meter

1 50.00 50.00
5V Relay - operates at 5V
Module
DC
- 6 pins
1 96.00 96.00

12V Adapter - 12V adapter is

much more
efficient and
cheaper

149.00 149.00
1 Polyethylene - 3x1 meter
- 4mil – 100
UV plastic
microns
sheet
50.00 50.00
1 - Durable and
Styrofoam
Lightweight

1922.00
TOTAL COST

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 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The results and discussion show the collected results, interpretation, and evaluation

of the data gathered. It also includes pictures that represents the construction of the

proposed device.

System Description

The project AWTS provides an efficient watering system while maintaining an

optimal level of moisture and temperature without the need of human intervention. The

primary purpose of the study was to design an economical and effective irrigation

framework that is applicable for agricultural use. It was set to deliver quality standards that

includes certain parameters such as moisture content, surrounding temperature, and

efficacy of the device in distributing sufficient amount of water to grow the crop, Brassica

rapa (Chinese cabbage).

The device was comprised of three main components, the soil moisture sensor, the

LM35 temperature sensor, and the Arduino R3 microcontroller. The device is powered by

a 12V adapter; power source could also be from a 12V battery to support the system when

no electricity is available.

The soil moisture sensor was used to monitor the moisture level of the soil. It was

programmed that when the moisture level is at 50%, it will trigger the watering system.

Alongside is the temperature sensor which detects the surrounding temperature of the

device. The temperature sensor was also available to use for the second set-up to determine

whether the UV plastic sheet used was beneficial in terms of cooling or regulating the

temperature.

16
 The microcontroller, Arduino R3, was used to command the sensors and provide

support for the 12V solenoid valve via 5V relay module. Data can be accessed through

Arduino IDE. (See Figure 15)

Principle of Operation

The “Automatic Watering Tech-System with Moisture and Temperature Sensor

(AWTS) operates primarily using a microcontroller. The sensor module's pins that were

used to connect to the main system are indicated. Following the initialization of the sensors,

the system will measure the ambient temperature and soil moisture. The LM35 temperature

sensor and soil moisture sensor was programmed to detect the corresponding data which

will be gathered manually by the researchers. All components were operational and

functions according to their purpose. Data were collected from two set-ups: set-up a (with

device) and set-up b (without device) to measure and distinguish if there’s any difference

between the data from both set-ups. Although errors may occur since certain conditions

were not addressed. All data can be seen through the serial monitor of Arduino IDE

software. The device can operate within 24 hours; however, it will only stop functioning

when electricity is not available.

The device operates for two main conditions: the watering system and the shed

system. The watering system comprises of soil moisture sensor, 5V relay, and 12V solenoid

valve. These three components work in conjunction to trigger the watering system. Once

the sensor detects that the moisture drops below 50% level, the information will be sent

through the Arduino which commands the 5V relay to turn on the switch to activate the

12V solenoid valve and supply water that will pass through the PVC pipe which then

17
automatically waters the crop, Brassica rapa. The second system comprises of LM35

temperature sensor and UV plastic sheet. The temperature sensor will detect the

surrounding temperature. It was expected that the temperature reading will not exceed for

at least 20 °C as UV sheet was installed to minimize the heat coming from the sun. The

following pictures (Figure 1-2) shows how the watering and shed system works.

Figure 1. Initial testing of Watering System

Figure 2. Watering and Shed System

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Soil Moisture Sensor

Figure 1 shows the schematic diagram of soil moisture sensor, the connection has

three pins which was the input or label in the soil moisture sensor as AO connected to the

analog input 1 of the microcontroller for the data reading of soil moisture level, the ground

of sensor connected to the ground of the microcontroller and the VCC or simply the positive

power source of the sensor which is connected to 5v pin of the microcontroller which is the

voltage requirement of the soil moisture sensor, this sensor will trigger the water system

when reading of this sensor drop or equal to 50%.

Figure 3. Connections of soil moisture sensor to the microcontroller

Figure 4. Photographic view of soil moisture sensor

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LM35 Temperature Sensor

The LM35 sensor was used to monitor the temperature of the surroundings. It has

three pins which is the supply voltage which is connected to 3.3v pin of the microcontroller,

the ground which is connected to the ground of the microcontroller and the analog out of

the LM35 sensor connected to analog input 0 of the microcontroller. This sensor is use to

monitor if the UV plastic sheet is affecting the temperature beneath.

Figure 5. Connections of LM35 Temperature Sensor to the microcontroller

Figure 6. Photographic view of LM35 temperature sensor

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Solenoid Valve

Solenoid valve was used to channel the water. It triggers to switch on and off

depending on the reading of the soil moisture sensor. It has two connections which is the

positive and negative input. The ground is connected directly to the negative output of 12V

power adapter, and the positive input is connected to the 5V relay module that serves as a

switch for the solenoid valve.

Figure 7. Connections of Solenoid Valve and 5V Relay Module to the microcontroller

Figure 8. Photographic view of Solenoid Valve

21
5V Relay Module

This module serves as the switch to trigger the solenoid valve to turn on and off. Its

connection is divided into two the input jumper which are the ground connected to the

ground of the microcontroller, the VCC which is connected to the 5V pin of the

microcontroller and the input which is connected to the digital pin 2 of the microcontroller.

The other part of the 5V relay module is the terminal block that serves as a switch for the

solenoid bulb, it has three ports, the normally close, normally open and the common

contact. The device only uses normally close and common contact ports of the 5V relay

module. Normally close is connected directly to the positive output of 12V power adaptor

and common contact is connected to the positive input of the solenoid valve.

Figure 9. Photographic view of 5V Relay Module

22
Testing and Evaluation

For the initial testing, the device was placed at South Square Village Pasong

Kawayan 2, City of General Trias Cavite. The device`s Performance and Function,

Usability, Contribution to Environment, Reliability, and Economical and Overall

Condition was evaluated by the researchers. The researchers used the data obtained from

the device to differentiate the two set up to showcase the usability of the device and shows

how it can function. This was done to identify if the device can work for what it was done.

One week of data gathering was used for the initial testing of the device which was

started from 6:00pm (June 10, 2021) until 6:00pm (June 17, 2021). The researchers leaved

the device for One week wherein it would work itself according to its function and return

three times a day to water the set-up B which is 6:00am, 12:00pm, 6:00pm. From these

times the researchers also gather data from set up A which was connected into laptop to

read the data from the device.

For the final evaluation which happened at Luis Y. Ferrer Jr. Senior High School.

To test and evaluate the device`s Performance and Function, Usability, Contribution to

Environment, Reliability, and Economical and Overall Condition. The researchers show

how the device can function. The automatic watering tech-system with moisture and photo

sensor or awts function as an automatic watering technology that can help farmers in

maintaining a good soil moisture level for the plants. By the used of soil moisture sensor

and LM35 temperature sensor its goal is to monitor the soil moisture level and temperature

of the surroundings of the plants for a better growth for the plants. The water distribution

can range up to 0.5 meter depending on its water pressure.

23
 For the usability of the device the researcher show the evaluators how can the device

be easily used. The device hardware where protected by a plastic cover for liquid

prevention as the device water the plants and it was placed beside the device to prevent

water going to electrical parts of the device. The researcher put water source and power

source to the device to run the device. The researcher designed the sensors to prevent water

damage, the LM35 was place underneath the UV plastic sheet and was cover to prevent

water and for the module of soil moisture sensor the researcher place it in a plastic covering.

The device’s contribution to the environment is that it poses a low risk of causing

environment, health, or regulatory problem because the materials used in the device are

recyclable and environmentally friendly which is not contributing to pollution. The device

also helps in promoting water conservation because it only uses the exact amount of water

needed in watering the plants to reach the needed soil moisture content. It is also made to

make a better irrigation system to solve manual problems.

For reliability, the device is durable enough to last for a long-term use even though

the materials are recyclable. The design of the device made it to withstand average weather

condition which helps it to last in the long-term. It is also very accessible to the user because

you can place it anywhere you want, and it will function automatically as long as it is

connected to a water source. The product cannot self-repair when error occurred, but the

device is easy to fix and can be functional for a long time.

For economical and overall condition, for a product that uses recyclable materials,

it is cost-effective for the function that it does. The only reason it will not be cost-effective

is because of the parts that are needed to build the circuit. It is fully operational and

functions according to what is desired by the researchers. The product is also universal

24
which means it can be used for different type of plants and still serve its function properly

which is to regulate and monitor the soil moisture content of the setup.

25
 SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

Summary

The research study entitles as “AWTS: Automated Watering Tech-System with

Moisture and Temperature Sensor was designed and constructed at Pasong Camachile II

from May 2021 to June 2021. The study was tested and evaluated at Pasong Kawayan II

and at Luis Y. Ferrer Jr, Senior High School.

The purpose of this study was to develop an efficient automated watering-system.

It serves as a tool for farmers and local gardeners that could detect moisture content,

surrounding temperature, and automatically waters the crop without human exertion. It is

composed of basic components to operate, these are the: Arduino R3, Soil Moisture Sensor,

Temperature Sensor, 5V Relay Module, and a Solenoid Valve.

The base of the device was made of Styrofoam. The system was enclosed in a case

to prevent from being damaged. The UV Plastic Sheet covered the top part of the device to

minimize heat from the sun. The PVC tube holed using a needle instead of installing of a

sprinkler.

The device used Arduino IDE software to program the soil moisture sensor and the

temperature sensor. This program was also used to the system’s microcontroller and

modules.

Testing and evaluation of the product was conducted to assess and check whether

the device meets the expected outcome. The data collected from the moisture and

temperature sensor was calculated using Two-Sample T-test Assuming Equal Variances

26
through Microsoft Excel’s Analysis ToolPak. The device was then evaluated based on its

criteria to show whether the device is acceptable or not.

The cost of the device was computed by the researchers.

Conclusion

Based on the result of T-test and Evaluation, it could be concluded that the device

made by the researchers was successful and operational.

The system of the device worked as it supposed to be; the moisture sensor monitors

the moisture content of the soil, if the water content went below 50% level, the watering

system will automatically trigger to water the crop. The temperature reading of the first

set-up was undeniably low than that of the set-up b, this can be inferred that the UV plastic

sheet was good in lowering the heat of the device’s surrounding. Moreover, the temperature

data was close to 18 to 20°C. The system works properly although there were some minimal

errors.

Based on the result of the statistical evaluation, there is a significant difference

between the temperature of both set-ups. This means that covering the device with UV

Plastic Sheet helped in maintaining the temperature at an optimized level. In contrast, there

is no significant difference between the moisture content of both set-ups. This shows that

the automated watering system and manual watering works on the same manner however,

the automated watering-system is more efficient than manual watering as it fairly

distributes water to different areas of the plant box. Some errors are observed in collecting

data since the moisture sensor is rusty and may fail on detecting the moisture as it is

damaged.

27
 Feedbacks on the device’s Performance and Function, Usability, Contribution to

Environment, Reliability, and Economical and Overall Condition shows that the device is

“Acceptable”. Data collected in the evaluation survey depicts that the device lacks in self-

repair and may cause errors when the system malfunctions. The result also shows that it

may not be suitable or applicable to use in other plants. Despite some flaws, the overall

design of the project was successful.

The total cost of the entire system was P1922.00

Recommendation

The project AWTS are only limited to certain parameters. To further develop the

study the researchers would like to recommend the following:

1. Use different types of sensors to measure other limitations present in the study.

2. Operate the system using Arduino Mega to support more components.

3. Add a Liquid Crystal Display (LED) to display data.

4. Enclose the whole device with UV plastic Sheet to be more efficient.

5. Make use of a cooling system to support the UV plastic sheet.

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 APPENDIX

Figure 10. Construction of the main system

Figure 10. Construction and designing of the product

base.

xi
Figure 12. Designing of the Automatic Watering System

Figure 13. Construction of Soil Moisture Module

xii
Figure 14. Construction of Watering System

Figure 15. System Design

xiii
Figure 16. Set-up A

Figure 17. Set-up B

xiv