Malnad College of Engineering

(An Autonomous Institution under Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belgavi)

Hassan – 573202

GUI-BASED HOME AUTOMATION SYSTEM

A Mini-Project report submitted to Malnad College of Engineering, Hassan, during the

year 2023 in partial fulfillment for the award of the degree of

Bachelor of Engineering
in
Electrical & Electronics Engineering
by

B T SHASHANK KEERTHANA D V
(4MC20EE007) (4MC20EE032)
MANJUNATH S S NANDINI K S
(4MC20EE038) (4MC20EE046)

under the guidance of

Mr. G T ARJUN
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR

Department of Electrical & Electronics Engineering

Malnad College of Engineering
Hassan – 573202

Tel.: 08172-245093 Fax: 08172-245683 URL:www.mcehassan.ac.in

2023
 Malnad College of Engineering
(An Autonomous Institution under Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belgavi)

Hassan – 573202
Department of Electrical & Electronics Engineering

CERTIFICATE
Certified that the Mini-Project Work titled
GUI-BASED HOME AUTOMATION SYSTEM
is a bonafide work carried out by

B T SHASHANK KEERTHANA D V
(4MC20EE007) (4MC20EE032)

MANJUNATH S S NANDINI K S
(4MC20EE038) (4MC20EE046)

in partial fulfillment for the award of

Bachelor's Degree in Electrical & Electronics Engineering
of
Malnad College of Engineering
affiliated to
Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belgavi

during the year 2023. It is certified that all corrections/suggestions indicated for Internal Assessment have
been incorporated in the Project report deposited in the Department Library. The Project Report has been
approved, as it satisfies the academic requirements regarding Mini-Project Work prescribed for the
Bachelor of Engineering Degree.

Mr. Arjun G.T Dr. N. S. Jyothi Dr. S Pradeep

Assistant Professor Head of the Department Principal

External Viva
Name of the Examiners Signature with Date

1.

2.

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We would like to express our gratitude to all those who contributed to the successful completion of
this GUI-Based Home Automation System project using Blynk.

First and foremost, we extend our appreciation to the developers of the Blynk platform, whose
innovative tools and resources enabled us to create a seamless and user-friendly interface for
controlling and monitoring home devices.

We extend our sincere gratitude and deep respect to Mr. G T ARJUN, Assistant Professor in the
Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, for her invaluable guidance and insightful
interactions.

Special thanks are due to Dr. M Ramesh, Assistant Professor and Project Coordinator in the
same department, for his unwavering encouragement, which played a pivotal role in the
successful completion of our project within the designated timeframe.

We would also like to express our appreciation to Dr. N S Jyothi, Professor and Head of the
Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering at MCE, Hassan, for consistently offering
support and motivation throughout this project.

Our heartfelt thanks go to Dr. N S Pradeep, the Principal of MCE, Hassan, for fostering an
exceptional academic environment that greatly contributed to our project's success.

Lastly, we extend our gratitude to all the teaching and technical staff members of the Department
of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, as well as to our friends, for their cooperation and
assistance in the execution of this project.

B T SHASHANK
KEERTHANA D V
MANJUNATH S S
NANDINI K S

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 ABSTRACT

This project presents the development of a graphical user interface (GUI)-based home automation system
leveraging the Blynk platform. The system integrates various components, including a NODEMCU
ESP8266, DHT11 temperature sensor, 4-channel relay module, 1293D motor driver, 6V DC motor fan,
light bulbs, and their holders. The primary objective is to enable users to remotely control and monitor their
home devices through a smartphone application.

The Blynk app serves as the user interface, allowing users to control four light bulbs individually, monitor
real-time temperature using the DHT11 sensor, and regulate the speed of a 6V DC motor fan. Equipped
with appropriate libraries and connected to the NodeMCU, serves as the microcontroller managing the
hardware components. The system is powered by a 9V battery, providing a wireless and convenient solution
for home automation.

The step-by-step guide covers the installation of the Blynk app, creation of a BLYNK PROJECT, design of
the GUI interface, setup of the ARDUINO IDE, coding of the Arduino script, and the physical connection of
hardware components. The project aims to offer a versatile and user-friendly home automation solution,
demonstrating the potential of IoT technologies and mobile applications in enhancing household
convenience and energy efficiency.

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 List Of Figures

Nomenclature

IDE INTEGRATED ENVIRONMENT DEVELOPMENT

4
 CONTENTS
Page No.
Acknowledgment ⅰ

Abstract ⅰⅰ

List of Figures ⅲ

Nomenclature ⅳ

1. Introduction
1.1 Objectives
1.2 Scope of the Project

2. System Overview
2.1 Architecture
2.2 Components Used

3. Blynk Platform Setup

4. Arduino IDE Configuration

4.1 Library Installation
4.2 Code Implementation

5. Hardware Connections
5.1 Circuit
5.2 Block Diagram

6. Code Explanation

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7. Powering Up the System
7.1 Connecting the 9V Battery
7.2 NodeMCU Power Source Setup
7.3 Uploading Code to NodeMCU

9. Testing and Troubleshooting

9.1 Blynk App Testing
9.2 Hardware Testing
9.3 Troubleshooting Common Issues

10. Conclusion

11. References

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 1. INTRODUCTION

Home automation has become an integral part of modern living, offering convenience,
energy efficiency, and enhanced control over household devices. This project introduces a
GUI-Based Home Automation System that utilizes the Blynk platform, NodeMCU
ESP8266, and various sensors and actuators to create a versatile and user-friendly smart
home solution.

1.1 Objectives

The primary objectives of this project are:

Remote Control: Enable users to remotely control and monitor home devices through a
graphical user interface (GUI) provided by the Blynk mobile application.

Integration of Components: Integrate components such as a 4-channel relay for light control,
a DHT11 temperature sensor, a 1293D motor driver for a DC fan, and NodeMCU ESP8266
for seamless communication.

User-Friendly Interface: Develop an intuitive and user-friendly interface using Blynk

widgets, allowing users to easily interact with and manage their home automation system.

Fig 1.1
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1.2 Scope of the Project

The scope of this project encompasses:

Lighting Control: Implement the control of multiple light bulbs using a 4-channel relay
module, allowing users to independently manage lighting in different rooms or zones.

Temperature Monitoring: Integrate a DHT11 temperature sensor to provide real-time

temperature data, enhancing environmental awareness and energy optimization.

DC Motor Fan Control: Utilize a 6V DC motor fan controlled by a 1293D motor driver,
enabling users to adjust the fan speed for personalized comfort.

Blynk Platform: Leverage the Blynk platform for its simplicity and versatility in creating a
customized mobile application interface for efficient home device management.

This introduction sets the stage for a comprehensive exploration of the design,
implementation, and functionality of the GUI-based home Automation System using Blynk
and the specified hardware components.

Fig 1.2

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 2. SYSTEM OVERVIEW

2.1 Architecture

The home automation system is designed with a modular and scalable architecture to provide
efficient control and monitoring of household devices. At its core is the NodeMCU
ESP8266, a versatile and WiFi-enabled microcontroller that serves as the central processing
unit. The architecture leverages the Blynk platform for seamless communication between the
NodeMCU and the user's mobile device.

Fig 2.1

2.2 Components Used

The system incorporates a set of essential components, including a 4-channel relay for
controlling light bulbs, a DHT11 temperature sensor for environmental monitoring, an
L293D motor driver to regulate the speed of a 6V DC motor fan, and the Blynk app for
intuitive user interface and remote access.

Fig 2.2
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 3. BLYNK PLATFORM SETUP
1. Download Blynk App:
 Install the Blynk app on your smartphone. It is available for both iOS and
Android.

Fig 3.1

2. Create a Blynk Account:

 Open the app and click on "Create Account" to set up your Blynk
account.
3. New Project Creation:
 After logging in, click on the "+" button to create a new project.
 Name your project (e.g., HomeAutomation) and choose the device
(NodeMCU) and connection type (WiFi).

Fig 3.2

4. Receive Auth Token:

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  Blynk will email you an Auth Token. Note this token, as it will be used in
the Arduino code.

5. Project Dashboard:
 Once your project is created, you'll be directed to the project dashboard.
 Drag and drop widgets onto the dashboard to control and monitor your
devices.

Fig 3.3

6. Add Widgets for Relay Control:

 Drag four "Button" widgets onto the dashboard, one for each relay.
 Configure each button's settings, such as output pin, mode, and color.
7. Add Widgets for Temperature Display:
 Drag a "Gauge" widget onto the dashboard to display temperature.
 Configure the gauge's settings, such as input pin, min/max values, and
color.
8. Add a Widget for Motor Speed Control:
 Drag a "Slider" widget onto the dashboard to control motor speed.
 Configure the slider's settings, such as output pin, range, and step.

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 Fig 3.4

9. Open your Arduino code for the NodeMCU.

 Locate the line char auth[] = "YourAuthToken"; and replace
"YourAuthToken" with the Auth Token received in your email.

Fig 3.5

10.WiFi Configuration:
 In the Arduino code, provide your WiFi credentials by replacing
"YourWiFiSSID" and "YourWiFiPassword" with your actual WiFi
credentials.

Fig 3.6

11.Upload the Blynk Code:

 Connect the NodeMCU to your computer via USB.
 Select the correct board and port in the Arduino IDE.
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  Click the "Upload" button to upload the code to the NodeMCU.

12.Power Up the NodeMCU:

 Connect the NodeMCU to a power source, ensuring it has a stable WiFi
connection.
13.Open Blynk App and Test:
 Open the Blynk app on your smartphone.
 Run the project and test the buttons for relay control, slider for motor
speed, and gauge for temperature display.

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 Fig 3.7

4. ARDUINO IDE CONFIGURATION

Arduino IDE configuration is a crucial step in setting up the software side of your home
automation system. Follow these steps to ensure the correct setup for your NodeMCU
ESP8266:

4.1 Library Installation:

 Install Arduino IDE:
If you haven't installed the Arduino IDE, download and install it from the official
Arduino website (https://www.arduino.cc/en/software).
 Open Arduino IDE:
Launch the Arduino IDE on your computer.
 Install Blynk Library:
- Navigate to "Sketch" > "Include Library" > "Manage Libraries...".
- In the Library Manager, type "Blynk" in the search bar.
- Click on "Blynk by Volodymyr Shymanskyy" and click the "Install" button.
- Install DHT Library:
Similarly, install the DHT sensor library.
- Go to "Sketch" > "Include Library" > "Manage Libraries...".
- Search for "DHT" and install the library that supports your DHT sensor model.

4.2 Code Implementation:

 Open a New Sketch:
 Open a new sketch in the Arduino IDE.
 Include Blynk and DHT Libraries:
 At the beginning of your sketch, include the necessary libraries:

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4.3 Define DHT Sensor Pin and Type:
 Declare the pin to which the DHT sensor is connected and its type (DHT11, DHT21,
or DHT22):

4.4 Blynk Auth Token and WiFi Configuration:

 Replace the placeholder values with your Blynk Auth Token and WiFi credentials:

4.5 Initialize DHT Sensor:

 In the setup() function, initialize the DHT sensor:

4.6 Blynk Widget Control Functions:

 Write functions to control and read from Blynk widgets:

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4.7 Temperature Reading:
 In the loop() function, read the temperature from the DHT sensor:

4.6 Upload Code:

 Connect the NodeMCU to your computer via USB.
 Select the correct board and port in the Arduino IDE.
 Click the "Upload" button to upload the code to the NodeMCU.

With these configurations, your Arduino code is ready to interface with the Blynk
platform and control the home automation system. Make sure to customize the code
according to your specific hardware connections and requirements.

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 Fig 4.1
5. HARDWARE CONNECTIONS

Setting up the hardware connections is a critical step in ensuring the proper functionality of
your home automation system. Below is a guide on how to connect the components:

5.1 Circuit:

- NodeMCU Connections:

 Connect the NodeMCU ESP8266 to your computer via USB for programming.
 Connect the DHT11 temperature sensor to a digital pin (i.e., D2).
 Connect the L293D motor driver control pins to the appropriate digital pins
(i.e., D1).
 Connect the relay control pins to specific digital pins (i.e., D3, D4, D5, D6).

- Power Supply:

 Connect the 9Watt battery to the 6 volt DC Motor for power.

 Connect the ground (GND) of the 9V battery to the NodeMCU's ground (GND)
pin.

- Relay Connections:

 Connect each relay's common (COM) terminal to the power source (e.g., 220V
for light bulbs).
 Connect the normally open (NO) terminal of each relay to the corresponding
light bulb.

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- DHT11 Temperature Sensor:

 Connect the DHT11's VCC pin to the 3.3V output on the NodeMCU.
 Connect the DHT11's GND pin to the NodeMCU's ground (GND) pin.
 Connect the DHT11's data pin to the digital pin defined in the code (i.e., D2).

- L293D Motor Driver:

 Connect the motor to the L293D motor driver's output terminals.

 Connect the motor driver's control pins to the specified digital pins on the
NodeMCU.

Fig 5.1

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5.2 Block Diagram:

Fig 5.2

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5.3 Flow Chart:

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 Fig 5.3

6 CODE EXPLANATION

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 This Arduino code is designed for an ESP8266 microcontroller to work with the Blynk
IoT platform. The ESP8266 is a popular Wi-Fi module, and Blynk is a platform that allows
you to control and monitor IoT devices over the internet.

6.1 Blynk Template Information:

 BLYNK_TEMPLATE_ID: Template ID for Blynk app.
 BLYNK_TEMPLATE_NAME: Template name for Blynk app.
 BLYNK_AUTH_TOKEN: Authentication token for connecting the
ESP8266 to the Blynk app.

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6.2 Blynk Configuration:
 #define BLYNK_PRINT Serial: Define the printing method for
Blynk to use Serial communication for debugging.

6.3 Libraries:
 The code includes necessary libraries: ESP8266WiFi for Wi-Fi
connectivity, BlynkSimpleEsp8266 for Blynk integration, and
DHT for interfacing with the DHT11 sensor.

6.4 Pin Definitions:

 RELAY_PIN_1 to RELAY_PIN_4: Pin numbers for controlling
four relays.
 MOTOR_PWM_PIN: Pin number for motor speed control using
PWM.
 DHT_PIN: Pin number to which the DHT11 sensor is connected.

6.5 Wi-Fi and Blynk Configuration:

 auth, ssid, and pass are variables holding the Blynk authentication
token and Wi-Fi credentials.

6.6 DHT Sensor Initialization:

 An instance of the DHT class is created for reading temperature
and humidity from the DHT11 sensor connected to DHT_PIN.
6.7 Blynk Virtual Write Functions:
 BLYNK_WRITE functions are defined for different virtual pins
(V1 to V7) which correspond to different functionalities on the
Blynk app.

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  Pins V1 to V4 control four relays, and V5 controls motor speed
using PWM.
 The mapSpeed function maps motor speed levels to PWM values.

6.8 Setup Function:

 Serial communication is initialized, Blynk is connected using WiFi
credentials and the authentication token.
 Pins for relays and the motor are set as outputs.
 DHT sensor is initialized.

6.9 Loop Function:
 Blynk.run() is called to handle Blynk-related tasks.
 Temperature and humidity data are read from the DHT11 sensor
and sent to corresponding virtual pins (V6 and V7) on the Blynk
app.

Overall, the code allows you to control four relays and a motor speed using the Blynk
app. Additionally, it reads temperature and humidity data from a DHT11 sensor and sends
that data to the Blynk app as well.

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 7 POWERING UP THE SYSTEM

7.1 Connecting the 9V Battery:

 Ensure the 9V battery is fully charged.
 Confirm the correct polarity of the battery terminals (positive and
negative).
 Connect the Battery to L293D MOTOR DRIVER:
 Connect the positive terminal of the 9V battery to the L293D's VIN
pin.
 Connect the negative terminal of the 9V battery to the L293D's
ground (GND) pin.

7.2 NODEMCU Power Source Setup:

 Some NodeMCU boards have a power indicator LED. When
connected correctly, this LED should light up, indicating that the
NodeMCU is receiving power.
 Confirm that the NodeMCU is configured to operate on an external
power source (VIN).

7.3 Connect NodeMCU to Computer:

 Keep the NodeMCU connected to your computer via USB for
programming.
 Select Board and Port: In the Arduino IDE, select the correct board
(NodeMCU) and port to which the NodeMCU is connected.
 Upload the Code: Click the "Upload" button in the Arduino IDE to
upload the code to the NodeMCU.

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  Monitor Serial Output:Open the Serial Monitor in the Arduino IDE
to monitor any debug or status messages from the NodeMCU.
 Ensure that the NodeMCU successfully connects to the WiFi
network.

9. TESTING AND TROUBLESHOOTING

Testing your home automation system is crucial to ensure proper functionality and identify
any issues that may arise.
9.1 Blynk App Testing:
- Button Controls:
 Use the Blynk app to test the buttons associated with the relays.
 Verify that pressing the buttons turns the corresponding light bulbs
on and off.
- Slider Control:
 Test the slider widget to control the speed of the DC motor fan.
 Observe changes in the fan's speed as you adjust the slider.
- Temperature Monitoring:
 Check the Blynk app's gauge widget to monitor real-time
temperature data from the DHT11 sensor.
9.2 Hardware Testing:
- Relay and Light Bulbs:
 Ensure that the relays are functioning correctly.
 Verify that each relay can independently control its associated light
bulb.
- Motor Driver and DC Motor:
 Check the motor driver connections and ensure it is receiving
signals from the NodeMCU.
 Confirm that the DC motor fan responds to changes in the slider
position.
- Temperature Sensor:
 Verify the DHT11 sensor connections.

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9.3 Troubleshooting Common Issues:
- WiFi Connection Issues:
 Check the WiFi credentials in the Arduino code. Ensure they are
correct.
 Confirm that the NodeMCU is within range of the WiFi network.
- Blynk Token Issues:
 Double-check the Auth Token in the Arduino code. It must match
the one generated in the Blynk app.
 Verify that the Auth Token is placed correctly in the code.
- Relay and Motor Driver Wiring:
 Review the wiring of relays and the motor driver. Incorrect
connections may lead to malfunction.
 Ensure that all ground connections are properly established.
- Serial Monitor Debugging:
 Utilize the Serial Monitor in the Arduino IDE to monitor debug
messages from the NodeMCU.
 Inspect error messages or warnings that may provide insights into
issues.
- Power Supply Issues:
 Check the 9V battery voltage. If it drops significantly, it might
affect the stability of the system.
 Ensure all power connections are secure and free from
interruptions.
- Sensor Readings:
 If the temperature readings are inconsistent, inspect the DHT11
sensor connections.
 Check for loose wires and verify the sensor is correctly powered.

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- Blynk Widget Configuration:
 Review the widget settings in the Blynk app. Ensure the pins
configured in the app match those defined in the Arduino code.

- Update Libraries:
 Ensure that you are using the latest versions of the Blynk and DHT
libraries.
 Update the libraries in the Arduino IDE if necessary.
- Physical Inspection:
 Visually inspect all components and connections.
 Look for loose wires, shorts, or any visible signs of damage.
- Reset and Reupload:
 In some cases, resetting the NodeMCU and reuploading the code
may resolve certain issues.

Fig 9.1

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 10. CONCLUSION

The implementation of the home automation system utilizing the Blynk platform and the
NodeMCU ESP8266 has provided an efficient and user-friendly solution for remote control
and monitoring of household devices. The successful integration of components, including
the 4-channel relay, DHT11 temperature sensor, and L293D motor driver, has resulted in a
versatile system that caters to lighting control, environmental monitoring, and fan speed
regulation.

Through the Blynk app, users can seamlessly interact with the system, toggling light bulbs,
adjusting fan speed, and monitoring real-time temperature data. The modular architecture
allows for easy expansion and customization, making the system adaptable to evolving
needs.

The project has not only demonstrated the capabilities of IoT technologies in the realm of
home automation but has also served as a practical guide for enthusiasts looking to build
similar systems. The use of the Blynk platform simplifies the development process,
providing an intuitive interface for users to interact with their smart home environment.

In conclusion, the home automation system showcases the potential for creating accessible
and effective smart home solutions. The successful combination of hardware components,
Arduino programming, and Blynk platform integration establishes a foundation for further
exploration and enhancement in the realm of home automation. As technology continues to
advance, such projects contribute to the evolution of smart living, offering both convenience
and energy efficiency.

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 11. REFERENCES

1. Blynk. (n.d.). Blynk - IoT for Arduino, ESP8266, Raspberry Pi. https://blynk.io/

2. Adafruit Industries. (n.d.). DHT11 Basic temperature & humidity sensor + extras.

https://www.adafruit.com/product/386

3. Texas Instruments. (n.d.). L293, L293D Quadruple Half-H Drivers.

https://www.ti.com/product/L293D

4. NodeMCU Documentation. (n.d.). NodeMCU Documentation.

https://nodemcu.readthedocs.io/en/release/

5. Arduino. (n.d.). Arduino - Software. https://www.arduino.cc/en/software

6. Blynk GitHub Repository. (n.d.). Blynk Library for Arduino.

https://github.com/blynkkk/blynk-library

7. Adafruit Learning System. (n.d.). Adafruit Motor Selection Guide.

https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-motor-selection-guide

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