i

ARDUINO-BASED SOIL MOISTURE SENSOR WITH AUTOMATED SPRINKLERS

A Research Proposal
Presented to
The Senior High School Faculty of
Luis Palad Integrated High School
City of Tayabas, Quezon

In Partial Fulfilment
Of the Requirements in
INQUIRIES, INVESTIGATIONS AND IMMERSION

By:
.
Cañete, Andrea Leiane D.
Lagran, Myrrh Raquel P.
Osongco, Catherine Cate
Pacios, Jerico L.

January 2020
 ii

Approval Sheet
In fulfilment of the requirements for Inquiries, Investigation and Immersion, this

research paper entitled Arduino-based Soil Moisture Sensor with Automated Sprinkler

has been prepared and submitted by Cañete, Andrea Leiane D., Lagran, Myrrh Raquel

P,. Osongco, Catherine Cate B., Pacios, Jerico L. who are hereby recommended for

oral examination.

Mrs. JOE VICTORIA B. DAELO

Research Adviser

Approved in fulfilment of the requirements for Inquiries, Investigation and

Immersion by the Oral Examination Committee.

Member Member

Mr. MARVIN J. ROSALES

Chairperson

Accepted in fulfilment of the requirements for the subject Inquiries, Investigation and

Immersion.

Ms. MARICEL L. ABELLA Dr. GENER C. DELOS SANTOS

Assistant Principal, SHS Principal IV
 iii

Acknowledgement
The researchers would like to extend their deepest gratitude and appreciation to

the following that in one way or another have helped us in the accomplishment of this

study.

To Mrs. Joe Victoria Daelo, the researcher’s adviser for guidance, time,

encouragement, valuable comments, suggestions and knowledge for the completion of

the study.

To the panellist, thank you for your suggestions and recommendations for the

completion of the study.

To Mr. Pitz Gerald Lagrason, the professor in Engineering at SLSU Lucban,

thank you for lending your time, helping us throughout the progress and for giving

suggestions for the progression of the study.

To STEM 12 C – RN for moral support and for encouraging us all throughout the

progress.

Foremost, to our family that serves as our inspiration and above all, the

omnipotent and omnipresent God, for leading us always to His path, for answering our

prayers and for giving us the wisdom, knowledge and strength despite our constitution

wanting to give up and leave everything. All praise and glory belongs to you

Thank you so much.

 iv

DEDICATION

The research proposal is dedicated to our loving parents who gave us moral and

emotional support and leading light of strength in completing our research proposal.

Also to our research adviser Mrs. Joe Victoria Daelo for her inevitable guidance and

support throughout the process. To our classmates and friends for their words of

encouragement that made us persistent and who never left our side in supporting us

throughout the process.

And lastly, we dedicated this research proposal to the Almighty God, thank you

for strength, power of mind, protection and skills, for giving us a healthy life and

guidance. All of these, we offer to you.

 v

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Title Page ……………………………………………………………………………….…... i

Approval Sheet …………………………………………………………………….………..ii

Acknowledgement …………………………………………………………………………..iii

Dedication ………….…………………………………………………………….................iv

Table of Contents ……..……………………………………………………………….…... v

Abstract ……………………….………………………..………………………………….....vi

Chapter I. The Problem and its Setting

Introduction ……………………………………………………………….

Background of the Study ………………………………………………....

Statement of the Problem …………………………………………………

Hypothesis………………………………………………………………...…

Conceptual Framework ………………………………………………..

Significance of the Study ………………………………………………….

Scope and Delimitation …………………………………………………....

Definition of Terms ………………………………………………………

Chapter II. Review of Related Literature and Studies ……………..……………...

Chapter III. Methodology ………………………………………………………...

 Research Design ………………………………………………………….

Research Locale ….…………………………………………………........

Materials and Methods …………………………………………………….

Statistical Treatment ……………………………………………………….

Chapter IV. Results and Discussion ………………………………………………

Chapter V. Summary of Findings, Conclusions and Recommendations …….…

Summary of Findings…………………………………………………….

Conclusions …………..………………………………………………….

Recommendations ……………………………………………………..

References ………………………………………………………………….

Appendices …………………………………………………………………...

vi

Abstract
 This paper involves the development of Arduino-based Soil Moisture Sensor with

Automated Sprinkler that uses sensor to determine the soil moisture. The researchers

used mixed method form of research with an experimental design in order to gather the

results that was conducted in Brgy. Camaysa Tayabas City. Using scientific approach,

the researchers test the functionality of the system if the moisture of the soil was really

sensed. This paper also discusses the prototype design of microcontroller based on

watering system which detects a soil if watering is required then the water will be

maintained at constant level. If the specific area is watered too much there are

possibilities that the plant may die due too excessive watering. The proposed system

uses a microcontroller platform device called Arduino, where sensor is connected in its

internal and external parts. Whenever there’s a difference in moisture content of

the soil, the sensor will determine the change and will give a signal to the

microcontroller and will send signal to the relay and the solenoid valve will be

automatically activated. The Arduino-based Soil Moisture Sensor with Automated

Sprinkler can minimize the impacts of excess water applied to the crops. Also, the

researchers recommend to the community to use the Arduino-Based Soil Moisture

Sensor with Automated Sprinkler in farming. This watering system includes the soil

moisture content and the capacity of the sprinkler released per minute.

Keywords: Soil Moisture Sensor, Microcontroller, Moisture Content, Automatic Watering

System
1

THE PROBLEM AND ITS SETTING

Introduction

Land degradation in dry lands is known as desertification and is the loss of the

biological or economic productivity of land. Sustainable land management practices

often involve protecting biodiversity to boost soil organic matter and soil moisture.

(Davies, 2012) In a study by Oregon State University (2010), the soils in large areas of

the Southern Hemisphere, including major portions of Australia, Africa and South

America, have been drying up in the past decade, a group of researchers conclude in

the first major study to ever examine "evapotranspiration" on a global basis.

Meanwhile, according to Khor (2019), South Asian countries lose billions of

dollars due to soil erosion and other forms of land degradation. When land is degraded

there can be serious effects such as erosion, loss of soil fertility, reduced crop yields,

flooding and water shortages. Present and future generations suffer losses of

agricultural productivity, the cost of replacing soil nutrients and the cost of land

reclamation and restoration. Additionally, underlying causes of degradation include

inappropriate land tenure agreements, economic pressures on farmers and population

growth.

In a review paper on the problem of soil degradation in the Philippines published

in the Annals of Tropical Research vol. 31 (Asio et al. 2009 in Soil degradation in the

Philippines 2010) revealed that soil erosion is the most widespread process of soil

degradation and is also the most studied in the country. Other important but less studied

soil degradation processes include loss of nutrients and organic matter, salinization,

acidification, pollution, compaction, and subsidence. 

 2

In fact, according to the Global Assessment of Land Degradation and

Improvement Study in UN Development Programme (2015), the total degraded lands in

the Philippines is estimated at 132,275 square kilometers affecting 33 million Filipinos.

According to Soil Science Society of America, soil moisture is the water stored in

the soil and is affected by precipitation, temperature, soil characteristics, and more.

These same factors help determine the type of biome present, and the suitability of land

for growing crops. As moisture availability declines, the normal function and growth of

plants are disrupted, and crop yields are reduced. According to Spruce (2019), soil

moisture will range from 10% to 45%, but can be higher during and after watering.

Arduino is an open-source electronics platform developed for building digital

devices and interactive objects that can sense and control objects in the physical world.

Consisting of both a physical programmable circuit board and a piece of software, or IDE

(Integrated Development Environment) that runs on the computer, used to write and

upload computer code to the physical board. (LOCO Technologies, 2017)

With this, the researchers will make an Arduino-based Soil Moisture Sensor with

Automated Sprinklers which will determine the effectiveness of the sensor itself and its

acceptability.
 3

Background of the Study

According to LGU Tayabas, plants are also essential to human life. The food we

eat, medicine, fiber which can be manufactured to fabric and clothing can also be

provided by plants. It also acts as settling chambers for particulate pollutions. Like us,

plants also need water in order to make their food. Water is considered one of the basic

needs for plant growth. But everyone must consider such potential situations in watering

our plants such as watering too much, too little and of course, just enough for us to

sustain and maintain the plant growth. Because keeping your plant properly watered is

important to its health.

The researchers thought of an idea of an automatic sprinkler, conservation

project which can also be useful and be able to contribute to the environment. This

project design study to focus on soil condition of a certain grass/plantation area and

determine when the plants need to acquire sufficient water.

Statement of the Problem

This study developed an Arduino-based Soil Moisture Sensor with Automated

Sprinkler.

Specifically, this study answered the following questions:

1. What is the innovative design of Arduino-based Soil Moisture Sensor with

Automated Sprinkler?

2. What is the detection time of sensing the moisture content through the device?
 4

3. What is the delay time of the activation of the sprinklers through the sensor?

4. What is the amount of water that the sprinkler released per minute?

5. What is the level of acceptability of Arduino-based Soil Moisture Sensor with

Automated Sprinkler in terms of:

5.1. Functionality

5.2. Design

Hypothesis

Null Hypothesis: The Arduino-based Soil Moisture Sensor with Automated Sprinkler has

no detection time on determining the moisture content of the soil

and the activation of the sprinkler.

Conceptual Framework

Input Process Output

 Moisture  detection time

sensor of sensing the Arduino-
programmed level of Based Soil
with Arduino moisture of soil Moisture
Uno  Amount of Sensor with
water that the Automated
 Automated
sprinkler Sprinkler
water
released per
sprinkler
minute.
 Figure 1. Conceptual Framework of Arduino-based Soil Moisture Sensor with
5
Automated Sprinklers

The figure shows the independent and dependent variables that may effect on

making the Arduino-based Soil Moisture Sensor with Automated Sprinklers. The

independent variable is the usage of moisture sensor and sprinklers programmed with

Arduino Uno that may affect the dependent variables which are the fast duration of

sensing the moisture of the soil and the amount of water that the sprinkler released per

minute.

Significance of the Study

This study will determine the efficiency and effectiveness of the Arduino-based

Soil Moisture Sensor with Automated Sprinklers.

The following individuals would be most benefited by the outcome of this study:

For the farmers, this study can help them reduce their work by automatically

sprinkling the lands. In addition, this will help them ensure that their lands have good

moisture content since the device will automatically sense the moisture of the soil. If not,

the device will automatically sprinkle the lands to give water and help soil maintain its

moisture.

For the community, this study will lessen the percentage of land degradation in

the Philippines since moisture of the lands will be monitored. Introducing Arduino to the

community may also help them to conduct more studies and use this for future

purposes.
 For researchers, this study can serve as guide and basis for future researches
6
regarding the same topic. They can also use this as reference.

Scope and Delimitation

This study focus in making the Arduino-based Soil Moisture Sensor with

Automated Sprinklers. It will measure how fast and efficient the device senses the

moisture of the soil. In addition, the level of acceptability in terms of functionality and

cost will be determined. Moreover, the study will only focus on determining the

effectiveness of the device. This study will be conducted on Brgy. Camaysa, Tayabas

City from June to February 2020.

Definition of Terms

Arduino refers to an open-source electronics platform developed for building

digital devices and interactive objects that can sense and control objects in the

physical world. Consisting of both a physical programmable circuit board and a

piece of software, or IDE (Integrated Development Environment) that runs on

the computer, used to write and upload computer code to the

physical board (LOCO Technologies, 2016)

Soil refers to a natural body comprised of solids (minerals and organic matter),

liquid, and gases that occurs on the land surface, occupies space, and is

characterized by one or both of the following: horizons, or layers, that are

distinguishable from the initial material as a result of additions, losses,

transfers, and transformations of energy and matter or the ability to

 support rooted plants in a natural environment. (Soil Taxonomy
7
National Resources Conservation Services, nd)

Soil Moisture refers to the water stored in the soil and is affected by precipitation,

temperature, soil characteristics, and more. As moisture availability

declines, the normal function and growth of plants are disrupted, and crop

yields are reduced. According to Spruce (2019), soil moisture will range

from 10% to 45%, but can be higher during and after watering.

Soil Moisture Sensor is used to measure the volumetric water content of soil.

(Vernier, 2019)

Sprinklers refers to method of applying water to a controlled manner in that is similar

to rainfall. The water is distributed through a network that may consist of

pumps, valves, pipes, and sprinklers. Irrigation sprinklers can be used for

residential, industrial, and agricultural usage. (USGS, 2015)

Sensor refers to a device that detects and responds to some type of input from

the physical environment. The specific input could be light, heat, motion,

moisture, pressure, or any one of a great number of other environmental

phenomena. The output is generally a signal that is converted to human-

readable display at the sensor location or transmitted electronically over a

network for reading or further processing. (Rousse, 2012)

CHAPTER II
 REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

This chapter presents the different literature and studies that are closely related

with the research problems. Several theories and concepts, which are excerpted from

books, journals, online scholarly project / info database, documents within a scholarly

project / info database as well as findings of previous studies that have connection to

this study, were briefly discussed.

Land Degradation

Soil refers to a natural body comprised of solids (minerals and organic matter),

liquid, and gases that occurs on the land surface, occupies space, and is characterized

by one or both of the following: horizons, or layers, that are distinguishable from the

initial material as a result of additions, losses, transfers, and transformations of energy

and matter or the ability to support rooted plants in a natural environment. (Soil

Taxonomy in National Resources Conservation Services, nd)

Land degradation in dry lands is known as desertification and is the loss of the

biological or economic productivity of land. Sustainable land management practices

often involve protecting biodiversity to boost soil organic matter and soil moisture.

(Davies, 2012) In a study by Oregon State University (2010), the soils in large areas of

the Southern Hemisphere, including major portions of Australia, Africa and South

America, have been

 9

drying up in the past decade, a group of researchers conclude in the first major study to
ever examine "evapotranspiration" on a global basis.

Meanwhile, according to Khor (2019), South Asian countries lose billions of

dollars due to soil erosion and other forms of land degradation. When land is degraded

there can be serious effects such as erosion, loss of soil fertility, reduced crop yields,

flooding and water shortages. Present and future generations suffer losses of

agricultural productivity, the cost of replacing soil nutrients and the cost of land

reclamation and restoration. Additionally, underlying causes of degradation include

inappropriate land tenure agreements, economic pressures on farmers and population

growth.

In a review paper on the problem of soil degradation in the Philippines published

in the Annals of Tropical Research vol. 31 (Asio et al. 2009 in Soil degradation in the

Philippines 2010) revealed that soil erosion is the most widespread process of soil

degradation and is also the most studied in the country. Other important but less studied

soil degradation processes include loss of nutrients and organic matter, salinization,

acidification, pollution, compaction, and subsidence. 

In fact, according to the Global Assessment of Land Degradation and

Improvement Study in UN Development Programme (2015), the total degraded lands in

the Philippines is estimated at 132,275 square kilometers affecting 33 million Filipinos.

According to Asio et. al. (2019), soil erosion appears to be the most widespread

process of soil degradation and is also the most studied. Other important but less

studied soil degradation processes include loss of nutrients and organic matter,
salinization, acidification, pollution, compaction, and subsidence. Studies reviewed have

shown that the widespread degraded upland soils possess chemical and physical

constraints for crop growth like acidic or calcareous chemical condition, low organic

matter and nutrient contents, shallow solum, presence of toxic substances and

compaction. There is a need for more data on the physical and socioeconomic

characteristics of degraded lands to aid in the formulation of appropriate soil

management strategies to support biodiesel production in these unproductive lands

which is now being promoted by the Philippine government.

Soil Moisture

According to Soil Science Society of America, soil moisture is the water stored in

the soil and is affected by precipitation, temperature, soil characteristics, and more.

These same factors help determine the type of biome present, and the suitability of land

for growing crops. As moisture availability declines, the normal function and growth of

plants are disrupted, and crop yields are reduced. According to Spruce (2019), soil

moisture will range from 10% to 45%, but can be higher during and after watering.

Soil moisture is affected by precipitation, temperature, soil characteristics and

other. This factor helps to determine the type of biome present and to know if the land is

ideal in growing crops. Soil moisture is the water that stores in the spil that helps crops

to grow.

According in Encyclopedia of Atmospheric Sciences (2015), Soil moisture is an

important variable in the climate system. Understanding and predicting variations of

surface temperature, precipitation, drought, flood, and the impacts of future climate

change depend critically on knowledge of soil moisture variations. There are few long-

term observations of soil moisture. Remote sensing of soil moisture is in its infancy and

can observe only the wetness of the top centimeter or two of soil. The production of a

global soil moisture data set will require an excellent land surface model and data

assimilation system, validated with observations, that calculates soil moisture based on

soil moisture observations and observations of precipitation, temperature, insolation, and

other weather variables.

Soil moisture depends on the climate change. Also, it is an important variable in

climate system. It is the understanding of surface temperature and moisture whether it is

high or low. The precipitation, drought, flood and the impacts of the climate change

depend on the knowledge of the soil moisture variations.

Arduino

Arduino is an open-source electronics platform developed for building digital

devices and interactive objects that can sense and control objects in the physical world.

Consisting of both a physical programmable circuit board and a piece of software, or

IDE (Integrated Development Environment) that runs on the computer, used to write

and upload computer code to the physical board. (LOCO Technologies, 2017)

In making the Arduino-based Soil moisture sensor with Automated Sprinklers, the

following will be used:

 12

Sensor refers to a device that detects and responds to some type of input from

the physical environment. The specific input could be light, heat, motion, moisture,

pressure, or any one of a great number of other environmental phenomena. The output

is generally a signal that is converted to human-readable display at the sensor location

or transmitted electronically over a network for reading or further processing. (Rousse,

2012)

Sprinklers refers to method of applying water to a controlled manner in that is

similar to rainfall. The water is distributed through a network that may consist of pumps,

valves, pipes, and sprinklers. Irrigation sprinklers can be used for residential, industrial,

and agricultural usage. (USGS, 2015)

Solenoid Valve refers to electrically activated valves, typically used to control the

flow or direction of air or liquid in fluid power systems. Used in both pneumatic and

hydraulic fluid power functions, the spool or poppet design of most solenoid valves

makes them perfect for various functions and applications. (Gannon, 2019)

In a study conducted by Dhanseely & Faheemah (2018), they utilized Arduino on

proposing a system that produced high quantity of yield than of that traditional

agriculture of in an innovative drip irrigation system with rainwater harvesting. The entire

system is electronically monitored by using Arduino Mega board, PH sensor and an

electrical conductivity unit. Healthy plants are grown by using the home-produced

nutrient solution. This system showed live streaming of crops using android phones and

automatic comparison of water.

 13

In a study by Harun et. al. (2017), Arduino Development Environment (IDE)

software is used to develop a program for the microcontroller to communicate with

multiple sensors and other hardware. The circuit of pH sensor, temperature sensor,

water sensor, servo, liquid crystal displays (LCD), peristaltic pump, solar and Global

System for Mobile communication (GSM) are constructed and connected to the system.

The system powered by a rechargeable battery using solar energy. When the results of

pH, temperature and water sensor are out of range, a notification message will be sent

to a mobile phone through GSM. If the pH of water is out of range, peristaltic pump is

automatic on to maintain back the pH value of water. The water sensor is fixed in the

siphon outlet water flow to detect water flow from grow bed to the fish tank. In addition,

servo is used to auto feeding the fish for every 12 hours. Meanwhile, the LCD is

indicated the pH, temperature, siphon outlet water flow and remaining time for the next

feeding cycle. The pH and temperature of water are set in the ranges of 6 to 7 and 25

°C to 30 °C, respectively.

In relation to this, an automatic control system was developed by Lopes et. al.

(2014) for real time preparation and application of nutrient solution for soilless tomato

production. The control strategy was based on transpiration estimates by the Penman–

Monteith model and on leachate concentration by measurements of electrical

conductivity. The performance of the fertigation system was evaluated during tomato

cultivation in sand substrate under greenhouse conditions. The commercial crop yield

was 4.74 kg m−2 and the average total soluble solids of tomato fruits was 4.50 °Brix.

Water use efficiency for tomato crop cultivated with the developed control system was

17.94 kg m−3. To produce 1 kg of tomato fruits, 44.42 L of nutrient solution were

necessary. The proposed system was efficient in adjusting the frequency of fertigation

cycles and controlling the prepared nutrient solution concentration, minimizing

environmental problems related to effluent disposal and contributing to economy of

fertilizer and water resources.

Automatic Watering System

According to Gupta (2016), in present days, in the field of agriculture farmers are

facing major problems in watering their crops. It’s because they don’t have proper idea

about the availability of the power. Even if it is available, they need to pump water and

wait until the field is properly watered, which compels them to stop doing other activities

– which are also important for them, and thus they loss their precious time and efforts.

In the society there are some people who is facing some problems like in

watering their crops because they are lack of things in the field of agriculture. They don’t

have enough money to buy some equipment or things that can help them to ease their

problem. If they have the equipment, they can have a quality time to their family or the

lifestyle that they have. They can also do their other activities that’s why it is very

important that they have the complete equipment or things that can help them through

their work in the field of agriculture. Also, if they have an automatic watering system that

can help them, they don’t need to pump water and waste their time on waiting until the

field is properly watered because the automatic watering system will do the work for

them. Some people would say that having an automatic watering system that will do the

job for them can cause them to be lazy but the advantages of having an automatic

watering system is to help them lessen the labor and to give the soil a sufficient amount

of water.
 15

According to Okokpujie(2016), a good way to provide adequate irrigation through

artificial means is the automated irrigation system using a microcontroller to supervise

the process. This system is also efficient in saving water, as the microcontroller ensures

that the exact amount of water needed to saturate the soil when dry is provided. This is

done by the help of a moisture sensor which ensures that water is supplied to the soil

when the soil moisture goes below a certain fixed level. The moisture sensor sends

information about the soil moisture to the microcontroller. The microcontroller then

receives the information, and then turns the solenoid valve on or off based on the

information signal received.

To sustain a right amount of water needed by the plant it is necessary to use an

automated irrigation system which made an easy way to water the plant. Using this

advance watering system it requires a process.

Nowadays, in the age of advanced electronics and technology, the life of human

being should be simpler and more convenient, there is a need for many automated

systems that are capable of replacing or reducing human effort in their daily activities

and jobs. One such system, named as automatic plant watering system, which is

actually a model of controlling irrigation facilities that uses sensor technology to sense

soil moisture with anIC in order to make a smart switching device to help millions of

people. Irregular watering leads to the mineral loss in the soil and may end up with

rotting the plants.

In the society, nowadays some farmers use electronics technology to help their

life. Watering system is one of the problem for farmers because irregular watering leads
to loss in the soil and may end up with rotting the plants. If they have a automatic plants

watering system some farmers should help their lifestyle, and the life of human being

should be simpler and more convenient. Automated systems that are capable of

replacing or reducing human effort in their daily activities and jobs.

 17

CHAPTER III

METHODOLOGY

This chapter presents the methodology that will be used in conducting this study.

This includes research design, locale, population and sample, research instrument, data

gathering and data analysis.

Research Design

This study utilized a mixed method form of research. Specifically, experimental

research will be used by the researchers as their research design. An experimental

research is any research conducted with a scientific approach, where a set of variables

are kept constant while the other variables are being measured as the subject of

experiment. In this study, the researchers will seek the effectiveness of the Arduino-

based Soil Moisture Sensor with Sprinklers by determining how long do the moisture

sensor detects the moisture of the soil. It will also determine the delay time of the

activation of the sprinklers after sensing the moisture of the soil. Moreover, the amount

of water that the sprinkler released per minute.

Research Locale

The study was conducted on Brgy. Camaysa, Tayabas City. It would be easier

for the researchers since one reside here. In addition, it would be more accessible and

convenient for the researchers since they are familiar with the place.
Research Instrument

The instrument used was a survey questionnaire checklist to gather the data

needed for the level of acceptability of Arduino-based Soil Moisture Sensor with

Automated Sprinkler in terms of its functionality and design. Also, the researchers add

some questions that can be answered by the farmers opinion regarding the level of

acceptability of the product.

Data Gathering Procedure

The researchers had exerted time, effort and cooperation in developing the

questionnaire. The survey was created using suitable questions modified from related

research and questions formed by the researchers. The survey was composed of two

parts. The first part is the checklist, wherein the respondents will rate the product in

terms of its functionality and design. While the second part was a question that can be

answered by the respondent’s opinion. Also, the researchers ask for permission to the

farmers to conduct the study and the survey.

Materials and Methods

In developing the Arduino-Based Soil Moisture Sensor with Automated Sprinkler,

the researchers used Arduino UNO microcontroller, breadboard, LCD, 12V G1/2” NC

plastic electrical inlet solenoid water valve for water dispense solenoid water valve,

garden plastic sprinkler automatic 360 degree rotation spray nozzle watering, relay, soil

moisture sensor, two meter flexible hose and wires.

A. Procedure in Gathering Materials

The materials were gathered in order to make a Arduino-Based Soil Moisture

Sensor with Automated Sprinkler. The researchers will buy it at Lazada.com and to the

professional engineer.

B. Procedures in Assembling the Connections between Components

In assembling the connections, the researchers will seek for the assistance of an

engineer and use the circuit.io for the proper assembling of wires between the

components.

The Arduino UNO has parts before it will be formed the parts of Arduino UNO are

breadboard, jumper wires, LED, photo resistor, tactile switch, piezo speaker and

resistor. Before starting any projects, the researchers need to get the Arduino to the

computer, this allows them to write and compile code for the Arduino to execute, as well

as providing a way for the Arduino to work alongside the computer. Installing the

Arduino software package on windows head over to the Arduino website and download

a version of the Arduino software suitable for the version of Windows. Once

downloaded, there are instructions to install the Arduino integrated Development

Environment (IDE). After the installation of the Arduino UNO to the computer it has a

window setup navigate to and select the UNO’s driver file, named ArduinoUNO.inf,

located in the Drivers folder of the Arduino Software download. Finally, click the upload

button on the top left of the environment. Wait a few seconds and it would show the RX

and TX LEDs on the Arduino flashing. If the upload is successful, the message “done
uploading” will appear in the status bar. A few seconds after the upload finished, you

should see the pin 13 LED on the board start to blink. You previously used the Arduino

sample code to blink the on-board LED. This project will flash an external LED using a

breadboard. When the button isn’t pressed, the Arduino detects ground

(pin>resistor>ground). When you press the button 5V is connected to ground. Arduino

pin 4 can detect this change, as pin4 has now changed from ground to 5V. Here’s the

setup() { // put the LED as an output pinMODE(4, INPUT); //configure the button as an

in out}. Upload this code and keep the USB cable connected. Open the serial monitor,

you should see the messaged arriving every 0.5 seconds. As you can see, the Arduino

is an easy way to get into electronics and software. It’s one of the best microcontrollers

for beginners. When the uploading is done then get all the jumper wires and insert all

the jumper wires in the Arduino UNO, soil moisture sensor, breadboard and in the relay

to their designated areas and insert the LCD to the breadboard. Also, assemble the

extension wire in the middle and left portion of the relay and the other end of the

extension wire is connected to the solenoid valve. When the soil moisture sense the

moisture content then the solenoid will automatically turn on and off.

C. Procedures in Programming using Arduino Software

The programming procedure has been done with the help of a professional

programmer. The researchers will use Arduino software that servers as the main control

center to measure the data of the system. Also, the researchers will encode the data

that need to attain to measure the moisture of the soil.

D. Procedures in Assembling the Arduino-based Soil Moisture Sensor with

Automated Sprinkler

In assembling the Arduino-based Soil Moisture Sensor with Automated Sprinkler,

the component was destined location specifically in Brgy. Camaysa Tayabas City. The

researchers put the sensor in the soil that is connected to the sprinkler, second check

for the connections and lastly run the system.

E. Procedures in Testing the Arduino-based Soil Moisture Sensor with Automated

Sprinkler

In order to test the functionality, the researchers will manipulate the moisture of

the soil. To determine the moisture of the soil, the soil moisture sensor will be used.

Schematic Diagram

Figure 2. Schematic Diagram of Arduino-based Soil Moisture Sensor with Automated

Sprinklers
 Figure 3. Circuit diagram of Arduino-based soil moisture sensor with automated

sprinkler

The materials to be used are the Arduino Uno, solenoid valve, and moisture

sensor and irrigation sprinklers to make the Arduino-based Soil Moisture Sensor with

Automated Sprinklers.

First, the size of the whole land will be calculated. The researchers will conduct

the study in a 100 sq. meters land. Since a standard irrigation sprinkler covers 4.6-5

meters, two (1) irrigation sprinkler will be used. It will be connected through wires on the

soil moisture sensor that will estimate the volumetric water content.

After setting the gathered materials, the whole system will be programmed with

Arduino Uno.
Statistical Treatment

On determining the delay time of sensing the moisture content of the device,

weighted average mean will be used.

Where:

∑X - Total of seconds per trial

X - Mean

N -Number of test
 Chapter IV

Results and Discussion

This chapter addresses the research questions. The questions that are

addressed are the following: (1) What is the innovative design of the Arduino Based Soil

Moisture sensor with automated sprinkler? (2) What is the delay time of sensing the

moisture content through the device? (3) What is the delay time of the activation of the

sprinklers through the sensor? (4) What is the amount of water that the sprinkler

released per minute? (5) What is the impact of the study to the community?
 Figure 4. Innovative design of Arduino-based Soil Moisture sensor with automated

sprinkler

The figure 4 shows the Innovat8uve design of Arduino-based Soil Moisture

Sensor with Automated Sprinkler. The parts of the Arduino shown in the figure are

Arduino UNO, soil moisture sensor, LCD, relay and the other materials of the product

are hose and extension. This sensor measures the volumetric content of water inside

the soil and shows the moisture level as output. When the sensor senses the moisture

content, the sprinkler will be automatically opened. And if the sensor senses the soil is

wet, the solenoid valve will be automatically closed. The function of Arduino-based Soil

Moisture Sensor with Automated Sprinkler, Arduino UNO is consists of both physical

programmable circuit board and a piece of software or IDE (Integrated Development

Environment) that runs on the computer, it is used to upload and create code to the

physical board, and the functions of solenoid valve are used to closed dose, distributed

or mix the flow of gas or liquid in a pipe. The specific purpose of a solenoid valve is

expressed by its circuit function. Relay are switching that open and close circuits

electromechanically or electronically. Relay control one electrical circuit by opening and

closing contacts in another circuit. Sprinkler is a method of applying irrigation water

which is similar to natural rainfall. LCD technology is used for displaying the image in

electronic devices.
 Moisture Content Detection Time
(%) (seconds)

Below 70% 4

Above 70% 0

Table 1. Detection time of moisture content through the

device.

The table 1 below shows the values directly obtained from the sensor which sent

to the Arduino. The data also shows a variation of moisture content. After the moisture

content reaches the maximum amount needed, the solenoid valve will stop the water

from flowing. On the other hand, when the moisture content reaches the minimum

amount, the sensor detects and sends the command directly to the Arduino and transfer

to the relay all the way to the solenoid valve and the water will flow directly to the

sprinkler and released water.

According to Aslinda(2018), it is mainly for the printing of the percentage that is

acquired from soil moisture sensor to determine whether the soil is wet or dry. The

value from the sensor also determine whether to switch the water pump on or off. It is

shown that when the soil moisture percentage is below 38% the water pump will be
switch on automatically. When the soil moisture percentage reach 47%, the water pump

will be switch off automatically.

Number of Trial Delay Time of Sprinkler Activation

(seconds)

1 7

2 7

3 7

4 7

5 7

6 7

7 7

Table 2. Delay time of the activation of the sprinkler through the sensor

The table 2 shows the delay time of the activation of the sprinkler through the

sensor. Every number of tests shows the same delay time of sprinkler activation.

ADD RELATED LITERATURE/STUDIES TO SUPPORT THIS

 Number of Test Minutes Amount of water
(Liter)

1 1 10L

2 2 14L

3 3 19L

4 4 24L

5 5 27L

Table 3. Amount of water that the sprinkler released per minute.

The table 3 shows the data of the amount of water released per minute. The data

also shows the variation of minutes. In order to measure the liter per minute, the

researcher gather the water by means of sealing the sprinkler with a plastic bag then

transfer the water to a gallon that can carry an amount of 6 liters.

According to Town of Reading, it is estimated that each sprinkler zone uses 15

gallons of water per minute. For one watering cycle a total of 750 galloons per 100 cubic

feet (cf), so 100 cf of water is being used for one watering cycle.

Also, according to Rain Bird, at different pressures the sprinkler head nozzle will

consume different amount of water.

Neriza Morente

The research survey seeks to interview 3 local farmers from Brgy. Camaysa

Tayabas City about the use of Arduino-based Soil Moisture Sensor with Automated

Sprinkler. The farmers will be interviewed individually according to the product’s design

and functionality. The evaluation of effectiveness and acceptability are as follows:

5 – Strongly Satisfied

4 – Partially Satisfied

3 – Satisfied

2 – Dissatisfied

1 – Strongly dissatisfied

FUNCTIONALITY 5 4 3 2 1

The product works well 

The product is free from technical defects 

The product is continuously working 

The product accommodates right amount of 

water

The product can be used for larger scale of 

planting
 DESIGN 5 4 3 2 1

The design of the product is well build. 

The product is easy to use. 

The product is free from wiring defects. 

The products systematic scheme is easy to 

understand.

The material used is easily replaceable. 

The product is portable. 

Marvin Lorbes

The research survey seeks to interview 3 local farmers from Brgy. Camaysa

Tayabas City about the use of Arduino-based Soil Moisture Sensor with Automated

Sprinkler. The farmers will be interviewed individually according to the product’s design

and functionality. The evaluation of effectiveness and acceptability are as follows:

5 – Strongly Satisfied

4 – Partially Satisfied

3 – Satisfied

2 – Dissatisfied

1 – Strongly dissatisfied

FUNCTIONALITY 5 4 3 2 1

The product works well 

The product is free from technical defects 

The product is continuously working 

The product accommodate right amount of 

water

The product can be used for larger scale of 

planting

DESIGN 5 4 3 2 1
The design of the product is well build. 

The product is easy to use. 

The product is free from wiring defects. 

The products systematic scheme is easy to 

understand.

The material used is easily replaceable. 

The product is portable. 

Nicanor Fernandez

The research survey seeks to interview 3 local farmers from Brgy. Camaysa

Tayabas City about the use of Arduino-based Soil Moisture Sensor with Automated

Sprinkler. The farmers will be interviewed individually according to the product’s design

and functionality. The evaluation of effectiveness and acceptability are as follows:

5 – Strongly Satisfied

4 – Partially Satisfied

3 – Satisfied

2 – Dissatisfied

1 – Strongly dissatisfied

FUNCTIONALITY 5 4 3 2 1

The product works well 

The product is free from technical defects 

The product is continuously working 

The product accommodate right amount of 

water

The product can be used for larger scale of 

planting

DESIGN 5 4 3 2 1
The design of the product is well build. 

The product is easy to use. 

The product is free from wiring defects. 

The products systematic scheme is easy to 

understand.

The material used is easily replaceable. 

The product is portable. 

 Chapter V

Summary of Findings, Conclusion and Recommendation

In this chapter, cover the summary, conclusion and recommendations made by

the researchers. This chapter shows the findings and recommendations that the

proponent gathered about the study after the completion of the system.

Summary of Findings

1. The developed Arduino-Based Soil Moisture Sensor with Automated Sprinkler

aimed to make an innovative way of watering the crops which is effective and

efficient. It would help in progress and provide an accessible and convenient

way of watering the crops.

2. The detection time of the first sample is 2 seconds with a 2% moisture content,

the detection time of the second sample is 3 seconds with a 50% moisture

content and the detection time of the third sample is 6 seconds with above 50%

moisture content.

3. The delay time of all the test has the same sprinkler activation

4. The amount of water of the first test has 10 liters for 1 minute, the second test

has 14 liters for 2 seconds, the third test has 19 liters for 3 minutes, the fourth

test has 24 liters for 5 minutes and the last test has 27 liters for 5 minutes.

5. The level of acceptability of the Arduino-based Soil Moisture Sensor with

Automated Sprinkler is
Conclusion

Based on the result of this study, the researchers formulated the following

conclusions.

1. The innovative design can minimize the impacts of excess water applied to the

crops

2. The detection of the moisture content is based on how humid the soil is, if the

moisture content is low then the detection time is faster.

3. The delay time of the activation of the sprinkler through the sensor is 7 seconds.

4. The amount of water that the sprinkler released per minute is 10 liters and it

exceeds every minute.

5.

Recommendation

Related to the result and conclusion of this study, the researchers recommend

the following:

1. The researchers recommend to the community to use the Arduino-Based Soil

Moisture Sensor with Automated Sprinkler in farming.

2. Further researches may add more trials in order to get a more accurate and

reliable results

3. Further studies may utilize different innovations.

4. Further studies can use sms notification to improve the system that may

response to the proposal using Arduino.

References

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degradation in the Philippines. Retrieved September 29, 2019

from https://www.researchgatenet/publication

/259884368_A_review_of_soil_degradation_in_the_Philippines Davies, J.

(2012). Issues Brief: Drylands and Land Degradation. Retrieved

September 29, 2019 from https://www.iucn.org/resources/issues-

briefs/drylands-and-land-degradation

Harun, A., Mohyar, S., Murad, S., Sapawi, R. & Ten, S. (2017). Design of aquaponics

water monitoring system using Arduino microcontroller. Retrieved on

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journalCode=a

George, K., Palande, V. & Zaheer, A.(2018). Fully Automated

Hydroponic System for Indoor Plant Growth. Retrieved on

September 16, 2019 from https://www.sciencedirect.com

/science/article/pii/S1877050918302473?via%3 Dihub

Gupta, A.,Kumawat, S. & Garg, S(2016) Automatic Plant Watering System Retrieved on

January 30, 2020 at https://www.researchgate.net/publication/321307351

_Automatic_Plant_Watering_System
Khor, M. (2019). Land Degradation Causes $10 Billion Loss to South Asia Annually.

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https://www.globalpolicy.org/global-taxes/49705-land-degradation-causes-10-

billion-loss-to-south-asi

LOCO Technologies. (2016). Arduino. Retrieved September 14, 2015 from

https://www.loco.com.sg/what-is-arduino/

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8kMqDAHhIFcd6ea5pEOeIssfU

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101010133630.htm

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issue-7/ZK0707326330.pdf

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https://www.earthsciweek.org/classroom-

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http://soil-environment.blogspot.com/2010/03/soil- degradation-in-

philippines.html?m=1
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target- moisture-level/

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APPENDICES
 Appendix A

Documentation of testing the Arduino-based Soil Moisture Sensor with Automated

Sprinkler

Appendix B
 Material and products
In developing the Arduino-Based Soil Moisture Sensor with Automated Sprinkler,

the researchers used Arduino UNO microcontroller, breadboard, LCD, 12V G1/2” NC

plastic electrical inlet solenoid water valve for water dispense solenoid water valve that

serves as the water breaker, garden plastic sprinkler automatic 360 degree rotation

spray nozzle watering, relay, soil moisture sensor that detects the moisture content of

the soil, two meter flexible hose and wires.

Appendix C
 Statement of the Problem
1. What is the innovative design of Arduino-based Soil Moisture Sensor with Automated

Sprinkler?

2. What is the detection time of sensing the moisture content through the device?

3. What is the delay time of the activation of the sprinklers through the sensor?

4. What is the amount of water that the sprinkler released per minute?

5. What is the impact of the study to the community?

Appendix D
Data Collected
II. Total Cost of Arduino-based Soil Moisture Sensor with Automated Sprinkler

Arduino UNO Microcontroller 209

Relay 70

Soil Moisture Sensor 100

LCD 185

Solenoid Valve (280V) 305

Rotational Sprinkler 220

2-meter hose 60

Jumper wires 50

Extension wire 95

Total Php 1,294

 Appendix E
Survey Questionnaire
The research survey seeks to interview 3 local farmers from Brgy. Camaysa

Tayabas City about the use of Arduino-based Soil Moisture Sensor with Automated

Sprinkler. The farmers will be interviewed individually according to the product’s design

and functionality. The evaluation of effectiveness and acceptability are as follows:

5 – Strongly Satisfied

4 – Partially Satisfied

3 – Satisfied

2 – Dissatisfied

1 – Strongly dissatisfied

FUNCTIONALITY 5 4 3 2 1

The product works well

The product is free from technical defects

The product is continuously working

The product accommodates right amount of

water

The product can be used for larger scale of

planting
 DESIGN 5 4 3 2 1

The design of the product is well build.

The product is easy to use.

The product is free from wiring defects.

The products systematic scheme is easy to

understand.

The material used is easily replaceable.

The product is portable.

 Appendix F
Biography

CAŇETE, Andrea Leiane D.

Brgy. Isabang

Tayabas City, Quezon Province, Philippines

Phone Number: 0966153958

Email Address: andreacanete192002@gmil.com

Date of Birth: May 19, 2002

Age: 17

Place of Birth: Gumaca Quezon

Nationality: Filipino

Civil Status: Single

Sex: Female

Religion: Catholic

Name of Father: Orlando D. Cañete Jr.

Name of Mother: Florian D. Cañete

Name of Siblings:

Jared Efraim D. Cañete Jaleel Seth D. Cañete

Andrei Reul D. Cañete

LAGRAN, Myrrh Raquel P.

Brgy. Isabang

Tayabas City, Quezon Province, Philippines

Phone Number: 09509882098

Email Address: myrrhraquellagran@gmil.com

Date of Birth: April 23, 2002

Age: 17

Place of Birth: Manila Sanitarium Pasay City

Nationality: Filipino

Civil Status: Single

Sex: Female

Religion: Seventh - day Adventist

Name of Father: Gilberto A. Lagran

Name of Mother: Maria Almira P. Lagran

Name of Siblings:

Mark Gerald P. Lagran Glenn Gilbert P. Lagran

OSONGCO, Catherine Cate B.

Brgy. Ibabang Bukal

Tayabas City, Quezon Province, Philippines

Phone Number: 09502723685

Email Address: catehyunra11@gmil.com

Date of Birth: November 11, 2001

Age: 18

Place of Birth: Pagbilao Quezon

Nationality: Filipino

Civil Status: Single

Sex: Female

Religion: Catholic

Name of Father: Ronaldo P. Osongco.

Name of Mother: Marilyn B. Oosngco

Name of Siblings:

Mary Joy B. Osongco

Jesalyn B.Osongco
PACIOS, Jerico L.

Brgy. Camaysa

Tayabas City, Quezon Province, Philippines

Phone Number: 09501669627

Email Address: paciosjerico19@gmil.com

Date of Birth: December 19, 2001

Age: 18

Place of Birth: Tayabas Cty

Nationality: Filipino

Civil Status: Single

Sex: Male

Religion: Catholic

Name of Father: Nestor F. Pacios

Name of Mother: Jocelyn L. Pacios

Name of Siblings:

Ericka L. Pacios