Design and Implementation of an Automated Irrigation

System Using Soil Moisture Sensors

A Proposed Project Presented to

Ms. Devorah Mae S. Doce

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the

IT-7/L: Systems Integration and Architecture 1

By:

Abadines, John Moises A.

Pullo, Rica Flor D.

Sagala, Angela Eve H.

 CHAPTER 1

Introduction

Automated irrigation systems that use soil moisture sensors have gained significant

attention as an effective solution to optimize water usage in agriculture. These systems

monitor soil moisture levels in real time, allowing for precise irrigation without the need for

manual intervention. This research focuses on developing a fully automated irrigation system

that utilizes soil moisture sensors to ensure crops receive the correct amount of water, based

on the current soil conditions. The system operates offline, without the need for internet

connectivity, and is specifically designed for small-scale applications such as home gardening

and small farms.

The proposed system automates the irrigation process by measuring soil moisture and

triggering irrigation only when necessary. This eliminates the inefficiencies associated with

traditional time-based irrigation schedules, which often lead to overwatering or

underwatering. By relying on real-time data, the system ensures optimal water usage, which

is crucial in areas facing water scarcity. In addition to irrigation, the system will record and

analyze data on soil moisture levels, providing valuable insights into soil conditions and

irrigation history.

Previous studies, such as Tan et al. (2022), have demonstrated the potential of

integrating soil moisture monitoring with advanced technologies like ARM and IoT for

improved irrigation management. However, challenges remain in terms of adaptability to

diverse environmental conditions and system scalability. This research seeks to address these

challenges by developing a simple yet efficient solution for small-scale agriculture,

improving water conservation and supporting sustainable farming practices.

Statement of the Problem

This study delves into the development of fully automated irrigation systems driven by

real-time soil moisture data from sensors. Specifically, it seeks to answer the following

questions:

1. How can the irrigation system be fully automated using moisture sensors while

eliminating the need for time-based scheduling?

2. How can the automated irrigation system accurately irrigate the soil based on its

moisture level?

3. How can data-driven insights be obtained from tracking irrigation history and soil

conditions?

Objectives of the Study

This study addresses the need for an efficient and autonomous irrigation system. By

leveraging soil moisture detection and automated control, the proposed system aims:

• To develop a fully automated irrigation system that operates based on soil moisture

levels, eliminating the need for manual intervention.

• To implement a soil moisture detection and automated irrigation system capable

of accurately assessing soil conditions and applying the appropriate amount of

water.

• To design a system that records and analyzes collected data, including irrigation

history and soil conditions.

Theoretical Framework

As the demand for precision agriculture and water conservation grows, real-time

monitoring and automation have become essential. This study aims to design and implement

a system that operates autonomously based on real-time soil moisture data, eliminating the

need for manual intervention and time-based scheduling. While previous research, such as

that by Moghavvemi et al. (2016), has demonstrated the importance of soil moisture sensors

in optimizing irrigation, many existing systems still rely on preset schedules or cloud-based

controls, limiting their adaptability in areas with unreliable internet connectivity.

To guide this study, two key theoretical foundations are employed. Control Theory

emphasizes the feedback loop between soil moisture levels and irrigation actions, which is

crucial for ensuring efficient water distribution. The system continuously adjusts irrigation

based on sensor data, maintaining optimal soil moisture levels without human intervention.

According to Çetin and Beyhan (2022), advancements in control theory have enabled precise

water management in irrigation systems by adapting to real-time conditions. Meanwhile,

Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) provide a framework for integrating sensors, automated

controls, and data analysis into a cohesive system. This approach ensures that the irrigation

system functions reliably in offline conditions, making real-time, localized decisions rather

than relying on remote cloud servers.

The key concepts in this framework include the automated irrigation system as the

core mechanism for regulating water distribution, the soil moisture sensors that provide real-

time monitoring, and the system’s ability to record and analyze past irrigation patterns and

soil moisture trends. These elements work together to improve irrigation precision while

ensuring long-term sustainability. Based on these foundations, the study posits several

hypotheses. First, a fully automated irrigation system based on real-time soil moisture data

will significantly improve irrigation efficiency compared to time-based or manually

controlled methods. Second, the effectiveness of the system is directly dependent on the

accuracy and reliability of soil moisture sensors and automated control mechanisms. Lastly,

data-driven irrigation history tracking enhances long-term water management efficiency by

enabling adaptive irrigation strategies.

To explore these hypotheses, the study is guided by several research questions. One

question examines how real-time soil moisture data improves irrigation efficiency in small-

scale agriculture. Another considers how an autonomous irrigation system can operate

effectively in offline conditions while ensuring precision in water application. Additionally,

the study investigates the role of tracking soil conditions and irrigation history in optimizing

future irrigation schedules. These questions aim to address critical challenges in small-scale

irrigation management and contribute to developing a more efficient, technology-driven

solution.

Overall, this theoretical framework provides a structured approach to understanding

automation in precision irrigation, particularly for small-scale applications that require

offline functionality and reliable water management. Unlike existing solutions that rely on

manual scheduling or cloud-based automation, this study prioritizes localized decision-

making, real-time sensor feedback, and historical data analysis to create a self-sufficient

irrigation system. By integrating these components, the study aims to enhance irrigation

efficiency, conserve water resources, and provide a sustainable, adaptive solution for modern

agriculture.
Conceptual Framework

Figure 1. Conceptual Framework of the System

Figure 1 illustrates the conceptual framework for an automated irrigation system

designed to optimize water usage through smart and data-driven processes. The system's

primary inputs consist of essential components that enable real-time monitoring and decision-

making. Soil moisture sensors are deployed to measure real-time soil moisture levels

accurately. A reliable power supply supports the continuous operation of system components,

including the control unit and water pump. The control unit functions as the central

processing hub, analyzing data from the sensors and triggering irrigation actions based on

predetermined conditions.

The system operates through a series of interconnected processes designed to

optimize irrigation. Continuous monitoring of soil moisture levels is achieved through sensor

integration. The data collected by the sensors are transmitted to the control unit for analysis.

The control unit compares the moisture data with predefined irrigation thresholds. When

moisture levels fall below the threshold, the system activates the water pump, delivering
precise amounts of water to the soil. This automated process ensures irrigation is applied only

when necessary. Additionally, historical data on irrigation activities and soil conditions are

recorded and stored, providing valuable insights for future decision-making and system

optimization.

The outputs of the system underscore its benefits in water resource management.

Optimized irrigation is achieved through data-driven operations, ensuring that water is

applied efficiently based on soil moisture levels. Water wastage is significantly reduced by

targeting irrigation only where and when it is required. The system generates data-driven

insights, which can inform future water management strategies and agricultural practices.

Furthermore, the system achieves a fully automated irrigation process, eliminating the need

for manual intervention or time-based scheduling.

Scope and Limitations

Scope of the System

This study focuses on developing a fully automated irrigation system based on real-

time soil moisture data from sensors. The system aims to eliminate the need for manual

intervention and time-based scheduling, accurately irrigate the soil based on its moisture

level, and record and analyze data to generate insights on irrigation history and soil

conditions. The system will be designed to be fully automated, operate offline without

requiring internet connectivity, and be suitable for use in small-scale agriculture and

gardening.

Limitation of the System

The study is limited to the development of an automated irrigation system using soil

moisture sensors. It does not cover other factors that may affect irrigation, such as rainfall,

temperature, and wind speed. The study also does not address the economic viability of the
system or its scalability to large-scale agricultural operations. The system is intended for use

in small-scale gardening and agriculture, with limited consideration for large-scale

applications or regions with limited resources. Additionally, while the study emphasizes the

use of sensors for accurate soil moisture detection and automated irrigation, it does not delve

into the development of advanced AI-driven predictive models for irrigation scheduling or

the integration of solar power for sustainable operation.

Review of Related Literature (RRL)

Automated irrigation systems have significantly contributed to efficient water

management in agriculture. Moghavvemi et al. (2016) emphasized the importance of soil

moisture sensors in irrigation control, demonstrating how automated systems enhance crop

growth by maintaining optimal soil conditions. Similarly, EOS Data Analytics (2021)

provided insights into different types of soil moisture sensors and their applications in

precision irrigation.

Water conservation is a key focus in smart agriculture. Sui and Baggard (2018)

analyzed the performance of automatic irrigation systems in humid climates, revealing how

such systems optimize water usage while reducing labor costs. Meanwhile, Alex et al. (2024)

explored the integration of Arduino Uno and humidity sensors in irrigation, illustrating the role

of artificial intelligence in sustainable agriculture.

The Internet of Things (IoT) has revolutionized irrigation by enabling real-time

monitoring and automation. Nsoh et al. (2024) reviewed IoT-based irrigation solutions that

utilize machine learning for efficient water distribution. Additionally, Nsoh et al. (2020)

provided an overview of recent trends in smart irrigation, highlighting how IoT sensors

improve precision agriculture.

Furthermore, Liao et al. (2021) developed a greenhouse irrigation system based on

real- time soil moisture data, reinforcing the practicality of automated solutions in controlled

environments. Manongi (2020) also presented an RF-based smart irrigation monitoring

system, demonstrating how wireless communication enhances agricultural water

management.

Several studies have emphasized the sustainability aspect of automated irrigation.

Patil and Patil (2022) described an automatic watering system using soil moisture sensors,

underscoring the benefits of reducing water wastage. Likewise, Laxmi and Saxena (2022)

provided a comprehensive review of soil moisture detection techniques, offering insights into

the technological advancements in smart agriculture.

Review of Related Systems (RRS)

Soil moisture detection and automated irrigation systems have become vital tools in

modern agriculture, enhancing water use efficiency and crop yield. Several approaches to

these systems, leveraging different technologies, have been developed.

Tan et al. (2022) designed an advanced system that integrates ARM architecture and

IoT technology for soil moisture monitoring and irrigation control. The system features real-

time soil moisture detection, offering automatic irrigation based on preset moisture levels. The

addition of IoT capabilities enables remote monitoring and control, making it a flexible

solution for large-scale agricultural management. This system is particularly beneficial for

improving irrigation efficiency and reducing water waste.

Similarly, Moghavvemi et al. (2016) developed an automatic irrigation system that

activates based on soil moisture levels. While effective for small-scale farming, the system

lacks advanced features such as remote access or the adaptability of modern IoT systems. It

relies on basic moisture sensors to control irrigation, making it less scalable and efficient

compared to more sophisticated systems.

 Alex et al. (2024) focused on optimizing water usage by combining humidity sensors

with an Arduino Uno microcontroller for automated irrigation. The system is cost-effective

and provides a precise solution for small to medium-scale farms, ensuring water is only

supplied when necessary. This low-cost system highlights the potential for improving water

efficiency in regions with limited resources.

Patil and Patil (2022) developed a basic soil moisture sensor-based watering system

that activates irrigation when the soil is dry. This simple system is suitable for small-scale

applications but lacks real-time monitoring and remote control, limiting its functionality

compared to more advanced systems.

Manongi (2020) explored a radio frequency (RF)-based smart irrigation monitoring

system, which uses wireless communication for remote monitoring. This system provides a

solution for large-scale irrigation management but still faces challenges in data accuracy and

wireless connectivity particularly in remote areas.

Pramanik et al. (2022) developed a basin irrigation system that automates soil moisture-

based irrigation. This system integrates moisture sensors to trigger irrigation, significantly

reducing water consumption, but like other basic systems, it lacks advanced control features

such as remote monitoring and adaptation to varying environmental conditions.

Liao et al. (2021) introduced a smart irrigation system that uses real-time soil moisture

data to optimize irrigation in greenhouse settings. This system demonstrates the potential for

improving water management in controlled environments, offering a more adaptive solution

for precision irrigation.

Ramakrishnan et al. (2024) proposed an advanced plant irrigation system that

incorporates soil moisture sensing and cloud-based control. The integration with cloud

platforms allows for real-time data analysis and adaptive irrigation scheduling, making it a

highly flexible solution for modern agriculture.

These reviewed systems highlight the evolving capabilities of soil moisture detection and

automated irrigation technologies. Traditional systems focus on basic moisture sensing and

scheduled irrigation, while modern IoT-based systems integrate remote monitoring, cloud

storage, and machine learning to create more adaptive, scalable, and efficient irrigation

solution.

Synthesis

The reviewed literature on automated irrigation systems reveals significant

advancements in optimizing water management, improving crop yields, and promoting

sustainability in agriculture. Numerous studies, such as those by Moghavvemi et al. (2016)

and EOS Data Analytics (2021), highlight the critical role that soil moisture sensors play in

ensuring efficient irrigation. Research by Sui and Baggard (2018) and Alex et al. (2024)

further explores automation techniques, including Arduino-based systems and the use of

artificial intelligence to improve the precision of agricultural practices. The integration of IoT

has also played a pivotal role in enhancing irrigation management, enabling real-time

monitoring and automated decision-making, as seen in the works of Nsoh et al. (2024) and

Liao et al. (2021). Together, these studies underline the growing demand for sustainable,

technology-driven irrigation solutions that can tackle the challenges of water conservation.

However, despite these advancements, existing systems often face limitations, such as

the lack of real-time monitoring, remote accessibility, and adaptability to diverse

environmental conditions. Systems like those developed by Tan et al. (2022) and

Ramakrishnan et al. (2024) incorporate cloud-based automation, allowing for remote access

and data-driven decisions, yet some systems still depend on preset schedules or basic sensor

triggers, which may not be as responsive to changing soil conditions. This research aims to
fill these gaps by developing a fully automated irrigation system that operates solely based on

soil moisture levels, eliminating the need for human intervention. By integrating real-time

monitoring and data analysis, this study seeks to create a more intelligent, efficient, and

sustainable irrigation solution, improving both water conservation and agricultural practices.
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