Weekly Activity Update: Flood Detection System Development Week 4 (Settimana 4)

Summary of Week 4's Activities

Week 4 focused on completing all tasks, sensor testing, and preparing for the Week 5 presentation. The soil moisture, ultrasonic, and infrared ToF sensors were tested for accuracy and functionality, ensuring reliable data logging. LED indicators and the buzzer were validated, with final calibration and integration checks completed. Real-world testing confirmed ultrasonic and IR sensor performance in water clarity detection and soil moisture consistency. Data analysis, documentation, and report updates were finalised, incorporating graphs and observations. Poster preparation began, structuring methodology, results, and system functionality for an effective presentation. By the end of the week, the project was fully functional, the report near completion, and the team ready for Week 5.

Hardware Setup and Sensor Testing

The sensors were mounted and secured to ensure stable and accurate readings. The Arduino board and breadboard were properly wired, and sensors were positioned for optimal performance.

 

Figure 1: Full hardware setup mounted            Figure 2: Close-up of the ultrasonic and IR sensor on the frame.

Ultrasonic and IR Sensor Testing

The ultrasonic sensor was tested for measuring water level, while the infrared ToF sensor measured water clarity and depth accuracy.

• Clear Water: The IR sensor passed through the water with minimal interference, while the ultrasonic sensor detected only the surface.
• Slightly Muddy Water: Some IR sensor deflections occurred due to floating particles, but bottom detection remained possible.
• Completely Muddy Water: The IR sensor struggled due to the solid sediment at the bottom, blocking readings.

Figure 4: Little muddy test setup with sensors.     Figure 5: Completely muddy water test  

Soil Moisture Sensor Testing

Figure 6: Soil moisture sensor readings over time

The soil moisture sensor was tested in soil with controlled water increments. The data showed expected trends, confirming sensor reliability. Graphs were updated to reflect soil conditions.

Data Logging, Graphing, and Interpretation

Data from all sensors was recorded and analysed to validate system performance.

• Water level was calculated by subtracting ultrasonic sensor readings from the ground distance.
• IR sensor readings provided insight into water clarity based on reflections and interference.
• Soil moisture readings were mapped to moisture levels, correlating sensor values with actual soil conditions.

Figure 6: Data logging interface and real-time sensor values

Figure 7: Data Interpretation for soil types

System Refinements and Debugging

Several challenges were addressed:

✔ Sensor positioning was adjusted for better stability.
✔ Software improvements were made to filter inconsistent readings.
✔ Hardware wiring and soldering were reinforced to prevent connection issues.
✔ Final calibration and integration checks were completed.

     

Figure 8: workflow of the project

                                                                                                                                
  Report, Blog, and Poster Preparation

• Report updates included experimental results, final observations, and conclusions.
• Blog updates summarised key findings and visual data representations.
• The poster draft was created, outlining methodology, system overview, and key results.

                                                                                                                                  

Week 5 Tasks and Presentation Plan

Finalise and rehearse the poster presentation (Friday).
Complete and submit the report by the end of the week.
Perform final system checks to ensure full functionality.
Make final refinements to the blog and documentation.
Prepare answers for potential questions during the presentation.