AUTO-SPRINKLER SYSTEM

Abstract

Disclosed herein is an auto-sprinkler system (100) for monitoring and controlling irrigation in agricultural fields. The system (100) comprises sensors (102) configured to monitor environmental and soil conditions and regulate water flow distribution. The sensors (102) further comprises a soil moisture sensor (104) configured to measure the moisture content and automatically trigger irrigation when the moisture levels fall below a threshold, a temperature and humidity sensor (106) configured to monitor temperature and humidity levels to support optimal crop growth; a methane sensor (108), configured to detect methane gas levels in the agricultural environment, alerting the user when gas levels exceed safe limits and a carbon monoxide sensor (110), configured to detect carbon monoxide levels, providing warnings when dangerous levels are detected. The system (100) also includes a microcontroller (112) further comprising an alert module (114) configured to send notifications to the farmer.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF DISCLOSURE
[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a auto-sprinkler system, more specifically, relates to a system for monitoring and controlling irrigation in agricultural fields.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0002] Globally, agriculture consumes approximately 85% of the world's freshwater resources. Due to population growth and increasing food demand, efficient water usage in agriculture has become critical. Many farmers initially maintain their crops well but often face challenges with sustained care over time, leading to water wastage and deteriorating plant health.
[0003] Traditional irrigation methods often lack automation, requiring manual intervention to ensure proper moisture levels in the soil. This invention seeks to address these issues by introducing a highly automated IoT-based system. The system continuously monitors soil moisture levels, temperature, and humidity using sensors and controls the operation of sprinklers to optimize water usage. Additionally, the system provides real-time notifications to farmers and integrates features for financial management, crop sales, and agricultural decision-making, thus ensuring both resource efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
[0004] Existing systems are predominantly manual or semi-automated, requiring regular human intervention to monitor soil moisture levels and control irrigation. This leads to inefficient water usage and increased labor costs. Additionally, these systems often lack comprehensive integration with IoT technology, limiting their ability to provide real-time monitoring and automated control of irrigation based on environmental conditions such as soil moisture, temperature, and humidity.
[0005] Many prior systems fail to offer a multi-functional approach for farmers. They typically focus solely on irrigation without integrating additional tools such as financial services or crop sales platforms. This reduces their overall utility for farmers who would benefit from features like real-time loan information or the ability to sell crops directly through an app. In contrast, the present invention incorporates these functions, making it a more versatile and farmer-centric solution.
[0006] Prior art systems also have limitations in scalability, cost-effectiveness, and accessibility. They are often too expensive or complex for small to medium-sized farms and are not easily adaptable to different field conditions. Furthermore, they lack user-friendly interfaces and multi-language support, making them difficult for widespread adoption, especially in rural areas. The current invention addresses these issues with a more affordable, scalable, and accessible design, featuring a mobile application that provides multi-language support and simplified operation for farmers.
[0007] The present disclosure introduces a fully automated, IoT-based irrigation system that continuously monitors environmental factors such as soil moisture, temperature, and humidity. This ensures optimal water usage without requiring human intervention, making the system both efficient and labor-saving for farmers. It provides real-time data that improves the accuracy of irrigation decisions.
[0008] Unlike conventional systems that lack real-time monitoring and multi-functional capabilities, this invention offers live updates through a mobile app, which not only controls irrigation but also allows farmers to sell crops and access financial information. This comprehensive solution supports various aspects of farming, making it much more versatile and useful for managing farm operations.
[0009] The system is highly scalable, cost-effective, and easy to install, catering to small, medium, and large farms alike. With multi-language support and a user-friendly app interface, it is accessible even to farmers in rural areas. By addressing issues like over- and under-irrigation, the system reduces water wastage, prevents crop damage, and ultimately enhances farm productivity and sustainability.
[0010] Thus, in light of the above-stated discussion, there exists a need for an auto-sprinkler system for monitoring and controlling irrigation in agricultural fields.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0011] The following is a summary description of illustrative embodiments of the invention. It is provided as a preface to assist those skilled in the art to more rapidly assimilate the detailed design discussion which ensues and is not intended in any way to limit the scope of the claims which are appended hereto in order to particularly point out the invention.
[0012] According to illustrative embodiments, the present disclosure focuses on a system for monitoring and controlling irrigation in agricultural fields, which overcomes the above-mentioned disadvantages or provide the users with a useful or commercial choice.
[0013] An objective of the present disclosure is to introduce a fully automated IoT-based system that intelligently monitors and controls irrigation processes, reducing human intervention while promoting efficient water usage. The system leverages various sensors to track soil moisture, temperature, and humidity, ensuring sustainable farming practices.
[0014] Another objective of the present disclosure is to optimize irrigation by automating the water distribution based on continuous environmental monitoring. This prevents both over-irrigation and under-irrigation, ensuring crops receive precise water levels, which enhances crop health and yield while conserving water resources.
[0015] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a user-friendly mobile application that offers farmers real-time control over their irrigation system. The application delivers instant notifications about soil and weather conditions, allowing farmers to manage irrigation remotely, thus reducing labor and providing flexibility.
[0016] Another objective of the present disclosure is to integrate additional functionalities into the system, such as access to financial resources, real-time information on available loans, and the ability to sell crops directly through the mobile app. These multi-functional features support both the technical and business aspects of farming, empowering farmers beyond irrigation management.
[0017] Another objective of the present disclosure is to ensure the system's scalability and cost-effectiveness, making it adaptable to farms of various sizes, from small family farms to large commercial operations. The modular design allows for easy customization, while the affordability of the system promotes widespread adoption across different agricultural settings.
[0018] Yet another objective of the present disclosure is to enhance accessibility for farmers in rural or underserved areas by offering multi-language support and an intuitive interface. This ensures that farmers with limited technological experience can easily operate the system, thus encouraging the adoption of smart irrigation technologies for improved agricultural efficiency worldwide.
[0019] In light of the above, in one aspect of the present disclosure, an auto-sprinkler system for monitoring and controlling irrigation in agricultural fields is disclosed herein. The system comprises sensors configured to monitor environmental and soil conditions and regulate water flow distribution. The sensors further comprises a soil moisture sensor, positioned in the soil, configured to measure the moisture content and automatically trigger irrigation when the moisture levels fall below a threshold; a temperature and humidity sensor, positioned near the crops, configured to monitor temperature and humidity levels to support optimal crop growth; a methane sensor, configured to detect methane gas levels in the agricultural environment, alerting the user when gas levels exceed safe limits and a carbon monoxide sensor, configured to detect carbon monoxide levels, providing warnings when dangerous levels are detected. The system also includes a microcontroller connected to the sensors, configured to receive sensor data and execute irrigation operations. The microcontroller further comprises an alert module, embedded in the mobile application, configured to send notifications to the farmer when abnormal conditions are detected. The system also includes a motorized pump configured to automatically turn on and off to control water flow based on sensor readings. The system also includes a motor driver connected to the microcontroller and the motorized pump, positioned within the system, configured to control the pump's operation based on real-time soil moisture data. The system also includes a user device, connected to the microcontroller via a communication network, configured to receive and display real-time data on a mobile application.
[0020] In one embodiment, the soil moisture sensor is configured to automatically deactivate the motorized pump when the soil moisture level returns to a predetermined optimal level, thereby conserving water and preventing over-irrigation.
[0021] In one embodiment, the system further comprises a real-time notification unit integrated with the methane sensor and carbon monoxide sensor, configured to send warning notifications to the farmer when dangerous levels of gas are detected.
[0022] In one embodiment, the alert module is configured to send both text and voice notifications to the user.
[0023] In one embodiment, the cloud database coupled to the microcontroller and user device, configured to store historical sensor data, enable remote monitoring, long-term trend analysis of environmental data, and access to real-time data.
[0024] In one embodiment, the mobile application is configured to allow farmers to upload images of their crops and list them for sale to merchants or consumers, providing a platform for direct farm-to-market sales.
[0025] In one embodiment, the financial advisory module integrated within the mobile application, configured to provide information about bank loans, interest rates, and repayment terms for supporting farm management decisions.
[0026] In one embodiment, the system comprises a power supply unit (126), configured to deliver continuous and reliable power to the sensors, microcontroller, motorized pump, and communication modules, ensuring uninterrupted operation even in remote areas or during power outages.
[0027] In one embodiment, the system is further configured to provide real-time updates to the mobile application, wherein the sensors transmit updated data every 5 seconds, ensuring accurate monitoring and control of the irrigation system.
[0028] In light of the above, in another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for preparing traditional Indian food using the auto-sprinkler system. The method comprises monitoring environmental and soil conditions and regulating water flow distribution via sensors. The method includes measuring the moisture content and automatically triggering irrigation when the moisture levels fall below a threshold via a soil moisture sensor. The method also includes monitoring temperature and humidity levels to support optimal crop growth via a temperature and humidity sensor. The method also includes detecting methane gas levels in the agricultural environment, alerting the user when gas levels exceed safe limits via a methane sensor. The method also includes detecting carbon monoxide levels, providing warnings when dangerous levels are detected via a carbon monoxide sensor. The method also includes receiving sensor data and executing irrigation operations via a microcontroller. The method also includes sending notifications to the farmer when abnormal conditions are detected via an alert module. The method also includes automatically turning on and off to control water flow based on sensor readings via a motorized pump. The method also includes controlling the pump's operation based on real-time soil moisture data via a motor driver. The method also includes receiving and displaying real-time data on a mobile application via a user device.
[0029] These and other advantages will be apparent from the present application of the embodiments described herein.
[0030] The preceding is a simplified summary to provide an understanding of some embodiments of the present invention. This summary is neither an extensive nor exhaustive overview of the present invention and its various embodiments.
[0031] The summary presents selected concepts of the embodiments of the present invention in a simplified form as an introduction to the more detailed description presented below. As will be appreciated, other embodiments of the present invention are possible utilising, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set forth above or described in detail below.
[0032] These elements, together with the other aspects of the present disclosure and various features are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed hereto and form a part of the present disclosure. For a better understanding of the present disclosure, its operating advantages, and the specified object attained by its uses, reference should be made to the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in which there are illustrated exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0033] To describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present disclosure or in the prior art more clearly, the following briefly describes the accompanying drawings required for describing the embodiments or the prior art. Apparently, the accompanying drawings in the following description merely show some embodiments of the present disclosure, and a person of ordinary skill in the art can derive other implementations from these accompanying drawings without creative efforts. All of the embodiments or the implementations shall fall within the protection scope of the present disclosure.
[0034] The advantages and features of the present disclosure will become better understood with reference to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawing, in which:
[0035] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of an auto-sprinkler system, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0036] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of the auto-sprinkler system, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0037] FIG. 3 illustrates a user interface of the auto-sprinkler system, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; and
[0038] FIG. 4 illustrates a system flow diagram of a method, outlining the sequential steps involved in the auto-sprinkler system for monitoring and controlling irrigation in agricultural fields, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0039] Like reference, numerals refer to like parts throughout the description of several views of the drawing.
[0040] The auto-sprinkler system is illustrated in the accompanying drawings, which like reference letters indicate corresponding parts in the various figures. It should be noted that the accompanying figure is intended to present illustrations of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. It should also be noted that the accompanying figure is not necessarily drawn to scale.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0041] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.
[0042] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure. It may be apparent to one skilled in the art that embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced without some of these specific details.
[0043] Various terms as used herein are shown below. To the extent a term is used, it should be given the broadest definition persons in the pertinent art have given that term as reflected in printed publications and issued patents at the time of filing.
[0044] The terms "a" and "an" herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items.
[0045] The terms "having", "comprising", "including", and variations thereof signify the presence of a component.
[0046] Referring now to FIG. 1 to FIG. 4 to describe various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of an auto-sprinkler system 100, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0047] The system 100 may include sensors 102, a soil moisture sensor 104, a temperature and humidity sensor 106, a methane sensor 108, a carbon monoxide sensor 110, a microcontroller 112, an alert module 114, a motorized pump 118, a motor driver 116 and a user device 120.
[0048] The sensors 102 are IoT-based environmental sensors 102. They are responsible for monitoring key agricultural conditions such as soil moisture, temperature, humidity, and harmful gases like methane and carbon monoxide. These sensors 102 work together to optimize the irrigation system and maintain the crop health by ensuring proper environmental control. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the sensors 102 are a combination of a soil moisture sensor 104, DHT11 temperature and humidity sensor 106, MQ4 methane sensor 108, and MQ7 carbon monoxide sensor 110.
[0049] The soil moisture sensor 104 is a key component in managing irrigation. It is designed to measure the moisture content of the soil and provide real-time data to the system to ensure optimal watering. The sensor controls the system by detecting when the soil moisture drops below a critical level and turning on the water. Once the soil reaches the optimal moisture level, the sensor deactivates the system to prevent overwatering. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the soil moisture sensor 104 is a capacitive sensor integrated with the control system.
[0050] In one embodiment of the present invention, the soil moisture sensor 104 is configured to automatically deactivate the motorized pump 118 when the soil moisture level returns to a predetermined optimal level, thereby conserving water and preventing over-irrigation. It also transmits real-time data to the monitoring application, where farmers can track soil conditions and water usage on their mobile devices. This feature significantly reduces the need for manual intervention and helps in the efficient management of water resources.
[0051] The temperature and humidity sensor 106 is essential for environmental monitoring. It is responsible for measuring ambient conditions, including temperature and humidity, around the crops. This data ensures that the crops are growing in optimal conditions and helps adjust irrigation or ventilation based on environmental factors. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the temperature and humidity sensor 106 is a DHT11 sensor.
[0052] The methane sensor 108 is a gas detection sensor. It is responsible for monitoring the presence of methane in the agricultural environment. The sensor can detect abnormal levels of methane, alerting the farmer to potential issues related to crop decomposition or nearby methane sources, which can harm the crops. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the methane sensor 108 is an MQ4 sensor.
[0053] The carbon monoxide sensor 110 is a safety sensor. It is designed to detect harmful levels of carbon monoxide in the agricultural area. This sensor ensures the safety of the crops and the working environment by providing early detection of hazardous gases. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the carbon monoxide sensor 110 is an MQ7 sensor.
[0054] In one embodiment of the present invention, the system further comprises a real-time notification unit integrated with the methane sensor 108 and carbon monoxide sensor 110, configured to send warning notifications to the farmer when dangerous levels of gas are detected. It enables immediate corrective action by alerting the farmer via the mobile application, allowing for prompt intervention to prevent harm to the crops and the surrounding environment. The integration of real-time notifications enhances the overall safety and efficiency of the system.
[0055] The microcontroller 112 is the central processing unit of the system. It is responsible for receiving data from the sensors 102 and controlling the various components such as the motorized pump 118, alert module 114, and other interconnected devices. The microcontroller 112 processes the sensor data in real-time, enabling the system to automatically respond to changes in environmental conditions, such as activating the irrigation system when the soil moisture is low. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the microcontroller 112 is an Arduino Nano, which supports multiple sensor inputs and can efficiently handle the automation logic.
[0056] The alert module 114 is the communicating interface between the system and the farmer. It is responsible for notifying the user of any critical changes in the environmental parameters monitored by the sensors 102, such as low soil moisture or the detection of harmful gases. The alert module 114 ensures that the user stays informed and can take immediate action if necessary.
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the alert module 114 is a Bluetooth-based communicating interface integrated with a mobile application.
[0057] In one embodiment of the present invention, the alert module 114 is configured to send both text and voice notifications to the user. It provides alerts in real-time via the mobile application in multiple languages, allowing the farmer to receive updates in a user-friendly manner. The use of both text and voice notifications ensures that the alerts are accessible to farmers with varying literacy levels, making the system more inclusive and effective.
[0058] The motorized pump 118 is the mechanism responsible for controlling the flow of water to the crops. It is activated or deactivated based on the readings from the soil moisture sensor 104, ensuring that the crops receive optimal water levels without manual intervention. The pump automatically turns on when the soil moisture is below the set threshold and turns off once the moisture level is restored. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the motorized pump 118 is an electric water pump controlled by the microcontroller 112 through the motor driver 116.
[0059] The motor driver 116 is the interface between the microcontroller 112 and the motorized pump 118. It is responsible for controlling the power supply to the motorized pump 118, allowing the microcontroller 112 to turn the pump on or off as required. The motor driver 116 ensures that the correct voltage and current are supplied to the motorized pump 118, safeguarding it from damage.
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the motor driver 116 is an L293D driver module, which provides reliable control of the motorized pump 118.
[0060] The user device 120 is the interface that allows the farmer to monitor and control the system remotely. It is connected to the system via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi and provides real-time updates on environmental conditions, water usage, and system status. The user device 120 receives alerts from the sensors 102 and allows the farmer to manually override the automatic system if necessary.
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the user device 120 is a smartphone or tablet running a dedicated mobile application that communicates with the system.
[0061] In one embodiment of the present invention, the cloud database 124 is coupled to the microcontroller 112 and user device 120, configured to store historical sensor data, enable remote monitoring, long-term trend analysis of environmental data, and access to real-time data. It allows farmers to track changes in soil moisture, temperature, humidity, and gas levels over time, helping them make informed decisions based on past patterns. The cloud database 124 also provides access to real-time data, ensuring that farmers can monitor their fields from any location using their mobile device. This feature enhances the system's utility by providing predictive insights into irrigation needs and crop health.
[0062] In one embodiment of the present invention, the mobile application is configured to allow farmers to upload images of their crops and list them for sale to merchants or consumers, providing a platform for direct farm-to-market sales. It enables farmers to bypass intermediaries, giving them greater control over pricing and the selling process. The platform supports multiple languages and is designed to be user-friendly, allowing farmers to upload crop details, set prices, and communicate with potential buyers. This direct sales approach helps farmers maximize their profits and expands their market reach by connecting them directly with consumers and merchants.
[0063] In one embodiment of the present invention, the financial advisory module integrated within the mobile application is configured to provide information about bank loans, interest rates, and repayment terms for supporting farm management decisions. It helps farmers access up-to-date financial information, including available loan options, the best interest rates, and flexible repayment schedules. This module provides tailored recommendations based on the farmer's needs, improving financial planning and decision-making for farm investments. The integration of financial data within the application simplifies the process of acquiring loans and enables better management of farm-related expenses.
[0064] In one embodiment of the present invention, the system comprises a power supply unit 126, configured to deliver continuous and reliable power to the sensors 102, microcontroller 112, motorized pump 118, and communication modules, ensuring uninterrupted operation even in remote areas or during power outages. It ensures that the system remains functional at all times, which is critical for monitoring and maintaining optimal growing conditions. The power supply unit 126 can be supplemented by solar panels or backup batteries, making the system sustainable and reducing dependence on grid electricity. This feature is particularly important for farmers in rural or off-grid locations, ensuring consistent irrigation and monitoring without the risk of system failure.
[0065] In one embodiment of the present invention, the system is further configured to provide real-time updates to the mobile application, wherein the sensors 102 transmit updated data every 5 seconds, ensuring accurate monitoring and control of the irrigation system. It allows farmers to stay informed about the current status of soil moisture, temperature, humidity, and gas levels, giving them the ability to intervene when necessary. The real-time updates improve the efficiency of the irrigation system by minimizing delays between detection and action, allowing for more precise water usage and better crop health management. This high-frequency data transmission also ensures that any issues, such as a malfunction in the motorized pump 118 or abnormal gas levels, are quickly detected and addressed.
[0066] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of the auto-sprinkler system 100, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0067] FIG. 2 illustrates the system 100, which is an IoT-based system designed to monitor environmental conditions and control irrigation for crops automatically. At the core of the system is the Arduino nano microcontroller 112, which acts as the central control unit, connecting and managing all the sensors, the motorized pump, and the communication with the user.
[0068] The system includes several sensors that provide real-time data on various environmental parameters. The soil moisture sensor 104 measures the water content in the soil, which is crucial for determining when irrigation is needed. This sensor sends continuous updates to the microcontroller 112. When the soil moisture drops below a set threshold, the microcontroller activates the motorized pump to water the crops. Once the optimal moisture level is reached, the pump is automatically turned off.
[0069] The temperature and humidity sensor 106, which is a DHT11 sensor, monitors the ambient temperature and humidity around the crops. This data helps maintain the optimal growing environment, ensuring that crops receive the necessary environmental conditions. The information from this sensor is also sent to the microcontroller for further action, such as adjusting irrigation based on weather conditions.
[0070] In addition to environmental monitoring, the system includes safety sensors for detecting harmful gases. The methane sensor 108 detects the presence of methane gas, which can be harmful to crops and the surrounding environment. Similarly, the carbon monoxide sensor 110 monitors carbon monoxide levels to ensure the safety of the crops and the agricultural workers. Both sensors alert the system in case of abnormal gas levels, enabling timely corrective actions.
[0071] The motorized pump 118 is responsible for delivering water to the crops. It is controlled by the motor driver 116, which regulates the power supply and operation of the pump. The motor driver interfaces with the microcontroller 112, allowing the system to automatically turn the pump on or off based on the soil moisture readings.
[0072] The system also includes a user device 120, such as a smartphone or tablet, which is connected to the system via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. The user can receive real-time updates and control the system remotely through an application. This device enables farmers to monitor the condition of their crops and the irrigation system, providing alerts and notifications on key environmental parameters and any critical issues detected by the sensors.
[0073] Finally, the system features an LCD display 114, which provides local feedback by displaying sensor data and system status. This display allows farmers to quickly check the system's performance without needing to access the mobile application.
[0074] Overall, FIG. 2 shows a well-integrated system where the sensors, microcontroller, and motorized pump work together to ensure efficient irrigation and environmental monitoring, with real-time user interaction and alerts available through the mobile application. This automated approach helps optimize water usage and crop health, reducing the need for manual intervention.
[0075] FIG. 3 illustrates a user interface of the auto-sprinkler system 100, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0076] FIG. 3.1 illustrates the system 100 with a user interface displaying the real-time environmental conditions and pump status. The interface shows temperature, humidity, methane (CH4) levels, and carbon monoxide (CO) levels. The pump state is also indicated as "ON," which means the system is actively watering the crops based on the data received from the sensors. This interface enables farmers to easily monitor the conditions in their fields and make informed decisions based on the current data. The top portion of the interface also allows the user to manage products or monitor different sections of the field.
[0077] FIG. 3.2 illustrates another view of the system 100, showing a similar interface with slightly different data updates. Here, the methane (CH4) and carbon monoxide (CO) levels are lower compared to FIG. 3.1, and the pump state is shown as "OFF," indicating that the irrigation system has been deactivated. This interface provides continuous feedback, ensuring that farmers stay informed about the changing environmental conditions and can monitor the system's response to those changes.
[0078] FIG. 4 illustrates a system 100 flow diagram of a method 400, outlining the sequential steps involved in the auto-sprinkler system 100 for monitoring and controlling irrigation in agricultural fields, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0079] The method 400 may include at 402, monitoring environmental and soil conditions and regulating water flow distribution via sensors, at 404, measuring the moisture content and automatically triggering irrigation when the moisture levels fall below a threshold via a soil moisture sensor, at 406, monitoring temperature and humidity levels to support optimal crop growth via a temperature and humidity sensor, at 408, detecting methane gas levels in the agricultural environment, alerting the user when gas levels exceed safe limits via a methane sensor, at 410, detecting carbon monoxide levels, providing warnings when dangerous levels are detected via a carbon monoxide sensor, at 412, receiving sensor data and executing irrigation operations via a microcontroller, at 414, sending notifications to the farmer when abnormal conditions are detected via an alert module, at 416, automatically turning on and off to control water flow based on sensor readings via a motorized pump, at 418, controlling the pump's operation based on real-time soil moisture data via a motor driver, and at 420, receiving and displaying real-time data on a mobile application via a user device.
[0080] Once all sensors are connected and the system is initialized, the monitoring process operates continuously. Each sensor is dedicated to tracking specific environmental or soil-related parameters. The soil moisture sensor plays a central role in determining when the irrigation system should be activated. It consistently measures the moisture levels in the soil and, when the detected levels drop below a preset threshold, it sends a signal to the microcontroller. This signal triggers the motorized pump to start irrigating the crops, ensuring that water is supplied only when necessary. As a result, over-irrigation is avoided, which can lead to water wastage and potential harm to crops.
[0081] In addition to moisture detection, the system also relies on temperature and humidity sensors to maintain optimal growing conditions for the crops. These sensors measure the surrounding environmental conditions and send real-time data to the microcontroller. If extreme temperatures or humidity levels are detected, the system can alert the user through the mobile application, allowing for immediate action to be taken. This real-time environmental monitoring ensures that the crops are growing in the best possible conditions, thus increasing yield and reducing the risk of crop failure.
[0082] The system also incorporates methane and carbon monoxide sensors to monitor gas levels in the agricultural field. Methane and carbon monoxide are harmful gases that can arise in certain agricultural environments, posing a risk to both crops and workers. The methane sensor detects any significant rise in methane levels, while the carbon monoxide sensor checks for dangerous concentrations of carbon monoxide. If either sensor detects a hazardous level of these gases, an alert is immediately sent to the user through the mobile app, prompting a swift response to prevent potential health hazards or damage to the crops.
[0083] The microcontroller acts as the brain of the system, receiving input from all the sensors and processing the data to make decisions about when to activate or deactivate the irrigation system. The motor driver controls the motorized pump, ensuring that it operates smoothly based on the moisture content of the soil. The motor is powered on when the moisture content is low, and it is turned off when the soil has reached the desired moisture level. This dynamic control prevents overwatering, promoting efficient water usage, which is crucial in regions where water scarcity is a concern.
[0084] The system's integration with a mobile application enhances user experience by providing remote control and monitoring capabilities. Through the app, farmers can view real-time data from all sensors, including soil moisture levels, temperature, humidity, and gas concentrations. In the event of any abnormalities, such as excessive gas levels or an unexpectedly low soil moisture reading, the app sends push notifications to the user, ensuring they are always aware of their crops' status. This level of automation and remote monitoring reduces the farmer's workload, as they no longer need to manually check the field's conditions or control the irrigation system.
[0085] Furthermore, the mobile app's interface is designed to be user-friendly, even for individuals with minimal technical expertise. It provides visual representations of sensor data and simple controls to adjust the system's thresholds, irrigation schedules, and alert settings. Farmers can customize the system according to the specific needs of their crops and environment, ensuring that irrigation is perfectly tailored to local conditions. By leveraging IoT technology, the system creates a fully automated, intelligent irrigation solution that conserves resources, improves crop health, and reduces the effort required to manage agricultural fields
[0086] While the invention has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and various embodiments, it will be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims.
[0087] A person of ordinary skill in the art may be aware that, in combination with the examples described in the embodiments disclosed in this specification, units and algorithm steps may be implemented by electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination thereof.
[0088] The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present disclosure have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure to the precise forms disclosed, and many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The embodiments were chosen and described to best explain the principles of the present disclosure and its practical application, and to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the present disclosure and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is understood that various omissions and substitutions of equivalents are contemplated as circumstances may suggest or render expedient, but such omissions and substitutions are intended to cover the application or implementation without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
[0089] Disjunctive language such as the phrase "at least one of X, Y, Z," unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to present that an item, term, etc., may be either X, Y, or Z, or any combination thereof (e.g., X, Y, and/or Z). Thus, such disjunctive language is not generally intended to, and should not, imply that certain embodiments require at least one of X, at least one of Y, or at least one of Z to each be present.
[0090] In a case that no conflict occurs, the embodiments in the present disclosure and the features in the embodiments may be mutually combined. The foregoing descriptions are merely specific implementations of the present disclosure, but are not intended to limit the protection scope of the present disclosure. Any variation or replacement readily figured out by a person skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the present disclosure shall fall within the protection scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the protection scope of the present disclosure shall be subject to the protection scope of the claims.
, Claims:I/We Claim:
1. An auto-sprinkler system (100) for monitoring and controlling irrigation in agricultural fields, the system (100) comprising:
sensors (102) configured to monitor environmental and soil conditions and regulate water flow distribution, wherein the sensors (102) further comprise:
a soil moisture sensor (104), positioned in the soil, configured to measure the moisture content and automatically trigger irrigation when the moisture levels fall below a threshold;
a temperature and humidity sensor (106), positioned near the crops, configured to monitor temperature and humidity levels to support optimal crop growth;
a methane sensor (108), configured to detect methane gas levels in the agricultural environment, alerting the user when gas levels exceed safe limits;
a carbon monoxide sensor (110), configured to detect carbon monoxide levels, providing warnings when dangerous levels are detected;
a microcontroller (112) connected to the sensors (102), configured to receive sensor data and execute irrigation operations, wherein the microcontroller (112) further comprises:
an alert module (114), embedded in the mobile application, configured to send notifications to the farmer when abnormal conditions are detected;
a motorized pump (118) configured to automatically turn on and off to control water flow based on sensor readings;
a motor driver (116) connected to the microcontroller (112) and the motorized pump, positioned within the system (100), configured to control the pump's operation based on real-time soil moisture data; and
a user device (120), connected to the microcontroller (112) via a communication network (122), configured to receive and display real-time data on a mobile application.
2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the soil moisture sensor (104) is configured to automatically deactivate the motorized pump (118) when the soil moisture level returns to a predetermined optimal level, thereby conserving water and preventing over-irrigation.
3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) further comprises a real-time notification unit integrated with the methane sensor (108) and carbon monoxide sensor (110), configured to send warning notifications to the farmer when dangerous levels of gas are detected.
4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the alert module (114) is configured to send both text and voice notifications to the user.
5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cloud database (124) coupled to the microcontroller (112) and user device (120), configured to store historical sensor data, enable remote monitoring, long-term trend analysis of environmental data, and access to real-time data.
6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the mobile application is configured to allow farmers to upload images of their crops and list them for sale to merchants or consumers, providing a platform for direct farm-to-market sales.
7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the financial advisory module integrated within the mobile application, configured to provide information about bank loans, interest rates, and repayment terms for supporting farm management decisions.
8. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) comprises a power supply unit (126), configured to deliver continuous and reliable power to the sensors (102), microcontroller (112), motorized pump, and communication modules, ensuring uninterrupted operation even in remote areas or during power outages.
9. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) is further configured to provide real-time updates to the mobile application, wherein the sensors (102) transmit updated data every 5 seconds, ensuring accurate monitoring and control of the irrigation system.
10. A method for monitoring and controlling irrigation in agricultural fields using the auto-sprinkler system (100), the method comprising:
monitoring environmental and soil conditions and regulating water flow distribution via sensors (102);
measuring the moisture content and automatically triggering irrigation when the moisture levels fall below a threshold via a soil moisture sensor (104);
monitoring temperature and humidity levels to support optimal crop growth via a temperature and humidity sensor (106);
detecting methane gas levels in the agricultural environment, alerting the user when gas levels exceed safe limits via a methane sensor (108);
detecting carbon monoxide levels, providing warnings when dangerous levels are detected via a carbon monoxide sensor (110);
receiving sensor data and executing irrigation operations via a microcontroller (112);
sending notifications to the farmer when abnormal conditions are detected via an alert module (114);
automatically turning on and off to control water flow based on sensor readings via a motorized pump;
controlling the pump's operation based on real-time soil moisture data via a motor driver (116); and
receiving and displaying real-time data on a mobile application via a user device (120).

Documents