Weekly Activity Update: Flood Detection System Development Week 3 (Settimana 3)

Summary of Week 3's Activities

This week, we conducted real-life experiments to test the flood detection system. Our focus was on verifying sensor accuracy, ensuring proper integration with the microcontroller, evaluating system response under different conditions, and progressing with the poster design for the project. Additionally, we began developing the CAD design for the project and started conducting market research to assess the viability of the product.

Experiments Conducted:

1. Water Level Experiment

   • A container filled with water was used to simulate rising water levels.

   • The Ultrasonic Sensor (HC-SR04) was placed above the water to measure the distance to the water surface.

   • The Infrared Sensor (VL53L0) was also used for comparison.

   • As the water level rose, the system recorded data from both sensors to check for consistency.

2. Object Detection Experiment

   • A cylindrical container was used to simulate a confined water body.

   • An object was placed inside the container to test sensor response to obstacles.

   • The infrared sensor detected the object at close range, while the ultrasonic sensor monitored changes in water height.

3. Warning System Evaluation

   • The RGB LED was programmed to change colours based on water levels.

   • The buzzer was tested to ensure it activated at danger thresholds.

   • Wi-Fi connectivity was tested to confirm alerts were sent to a remote device.

4. Poster Design Work

• Work began on the project poster summarising the system’s operation.

• Key sections included: System Overview, Sensor Comparisons, Experimental Data, and Future Applications.

• Initial sketches and layouts were prepared, and refinements will continue into next week.

Figure 1: Preparing the project poster for the flood detection system presentation

Testing the Battery Before Soldering

Before permanently soldering the 800mAh LiPo battery, we conducted initial testing to ensure compatibility with the microcontroller. However, we ran into issues as the battery could not be connected or coded in Arduino due to missing university applications. This delayed our testing process.

To resolve this, Demonstrator Will assisted us in identifying and installing the correct application, allowing us to proceed with battery testing. Once connected, we verified its voltage stability and power delivery to the system. After confirming successful operation, we proceeded with soldering, ensuring a secure and stable connection.

Figure 2: Testing the 800mAh LiPo battery for voltage stability and compatibility before soldering. Initial connection issues were resolved with assistance from Demonstrator Will, ensuring the correct application was installed for successful Arduino coding and power delivery verification.

Proposed Solution for Sensor Reliability

To ensure a robust flood detection system, we implemented the Rule of 2 in Robotics, where two different sensors are used for redundancy and accuracy verification. The Ultrasonic Sensor and Infrared Sensor serve different purposes but complement each other. By comparing data from both sensors, we can determine reliable water level measurements. If both sensors agree on a measurement, we have a reliable result. If one fails due to environmental factors, the other sensor ensures continuity in detection. This redundancy is vital for ensuring reliability and reducing false alerts in real-world scenarios.

Experimental Validation

For testing, we designed an experiment using a pod filled with water and a cylindrical object placed within. By varying the water levels and tracking sensor readings, we verified the sensors' accuracy. The LED changed colour based on threshold levels, and the buzzer activated when the danger level was exceeded. This experiment confirmed that both sensors effectively monitored the water level and provided timely alerts.

Summary Table of Sensor Data Interpretation

Key Observations:

• Clay Soil has the highest initial moisture readings because it retains water the longest.
• Loam Soil has moderate moisture retention, as expected.
• Sand Soil has the lowest moisture readings due to its fast drainage properties.
• Water absorption time is identical for all samples, but moisture retention varies.

Three curves for Loam (Orange), Clay (Blue), and Sand (Green).

Shows how different soil types react to added water over 10 minutes.

More controlled data included: sensor depth, temperature, humidity, and density.

Figure 3: Soil Moisture Sensor Readings Across Different Soil Conditions – Higher values indicate drier soil, while lower values correspond to increased moisture levels.

Why Both Sensors Are Important

The Ultrasonic Sensor is effective for large-area water detection but is susceptible to temperature and humidity variations, which can slightly affect accuracy. Meanwhile, the Infrared Sensor is highly precise for short-range measurements, ensuring that small puddles or water accumulations are also detected. If only one sensor were used, limitations in specific conditions could lead to false or missing alerts. Using both ensures comprehensive monitoring, redundancy, and more accurate flood detection.

1. Poster Design Work

   • Work began on the project poster summarising the system’s operation.

   • Key sections included: System Overview, Sensor Comparisons, Experimental Data, and Future Applications.

   • Initial sketches and layouts were prepared, and refinements will continue into next week.

2. CAD Design & Market Research

   • The 3D CAD model of the flood detection system was started.

   • Research was conducted to explore potential market applications and consumer interest in flood detection solutions.

Figure 4: 3D CAD model development in progress, showing an early-stage design of the flood detection system housing and component placement.

Figure 5: 3D CAD model development in progress, showing an early-stage design of the flood detection system housing and component placement.

Code Breakdown & Functionality

 

Structured & Simple Flowchart of Arduino Code Execution

Task Assignment for Next Week