SMART IRRIGATION SYSTEM

CASE STUDY: NDEJJE UNIVERSITY DEMONSTRATION FARM

By

GROUP MEMBERS:

NAMES REGISTRATION NO

MUWANGUZI SOLOMON 21/1/370/D/221

MULYANTI EVELYN 23/1/314/D/287

DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTING

FACULTY OF SCIENCE COMPUTING

JUNE, 2025

A Project report submitted to the Faculty of Science Computing In Partial fulfillment of the
Requirements for the Award of the Degrees of Bachelor of Software Engineering the
Information Technology of Ndejje University.

SUPERVISOR.
MR. BUKOLI HERBERTSON
Department of Computing
Faculty of Science Computing, Ndejje University
Tel: +256-702186668
Email: hbukoli@[Link].
DECLARATION

We, the undersigned, hereby declare that this project report titled "Smart Irrigation System: A Case
:Ndejje University Demonstration Farm.” is our original work. It has been conducted in partial
fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the degrees of Bachelor of Software Engineering
the Information Technology of Ndejje University.

This work has not been submitted previously to any other institution or university for any academic
award. All sources of information references used in this report have been duly acknowledged.

We affirm that this report was conducted with the highest standards of integrity professionalism.

Group Members:

Name Registration Number Signature

Muwanguzi Solomon 21/1/370/D/221 ___________

Mulyanti Evelyn 23/1/314/D/287 ___________

Date: _____________________________

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APPROVAL

This is to certify that the project report titled “Smart Irrigation System: A Case: Ndejje University
Demonstration Farm." has been submitted for examination with my approval as the official
supervisor. The work has been conducted under my guidance supervision meets the standards
required for submission to the Faculty of Science Computing at Ndejje University.

Supervisor:

Name: Mr. Bukoli Herbertson

Department of Computing

Faculty of Science Computing,

Ndejje University

Tel: +256-702186668

Email: hbukoli@[Link]

Signature: _____________________________

Date: _____________________________

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DEDICATION
We dedicate this work to our families for their dedicated cooperation support, our Supervisor Mr.
Bukoli Herbertson for being with us in the whole process, guiding, motivating instructing us
through the research process above all the Almighty God who has always protected us, guided
provided for us with knowledge, wisdom towards accomplishing our project. Thanks be to God.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The satisfaction that accompanies the successful completion of any task would be incomplete
without mentioning people whose ceaseless cooperation made it possible, whose constant
guidance encouragement crown all efforts with success.
We are very grateful to our project Supervisor Mr. Bukoli Herbertson for the guidance, inspiration
constructive suggestions that helped us in the preparation of this project. We also acknowledge
Ndejje University Demonstration Farm for their assistance with the necessary support to ensure
that our project is a success.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Contents
DECLARATION.............................................................................................................................. i
APPROVAL .................................................................................................................................... ii
DEDICATION ............................................................................................................................... iii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ............................................................................................................. iv
TABLE OF CONTENTS ................................................................................................................ v
LIST OF FIGURES ..................................................................................................................... viii
LIST OF ACRONYMS.................................................................................................................. ix
ABSTRACT.................................................................................................................................... x
CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................. 1
1.1 Background. .................................................................................................................... 1
1.2 Problem Statement ................................................................................................................ 1
1.3. Objectives of the study......................................................................................................... 2
1.3.1 Main Objective: ............................................................................................................. 2
1.3.2 Specific Objectives ........................................................................................................ 3
1.4 Research Questions: .............................................................................................................. 3
1.5 Scope of the study ................................................................................................................. 3
1.6 The Significance of the Study ............................................................................................... 4
Chapter 2: LITERATURE REVIEW .............................................................................................. 5
2.0 Introduction ........................................................................................................................... 5
2.1 Introduction to Ugandan Agriculture Traditional Irrigation ................................................. 5
2.2 Overview of Existing Smart Irrigation Systems Technologies ............................................. 6
2.3 Research Gaps Motivation for the Current Project ............................................................... 8
CHAPTER 3: METHODOLOGY ................................................................................................ 10
3.0 Introduction ......................................................................................................................... 10
3.1 Research Design.................................................................................................................. 10
3.2 Data Collection Methods: ....................................................................................................11
3.3 Data Analysis Methods: .......................................................................................................11
3.4 Software Development Method: ......................................................................................... 18

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 3.4.1 Software Development Tools ....................................................................................... 19
3.4.2 System Modeling Techniques: ..................................................................................... 19
3.4.5 Testing Evaluation ....................................................................................................... 19
3.6 Limitations of the study ...................................................................................................... 21
Chapter Summary ..................................................................................................................... 22
CHAPTER FOUR: SYSTEM STUDY, ANALYSIS DESIGN .................................................... 23
4.0 Introduction ......................................................................................................................... 23
4.1 System Requirements.......................................................................................................... 23
4.1.1 Functional Requirements ............................................................................................. 23
4.1.2 Non-Functional Requirements ..................................................................................... 23
4.2 Current System Study ......................................................................................................... 24
4.2 Proposed System Description: ............................................................................................ 25
4.3 Tools Technologies Used .................................................................................................... 26
4.3.1 Hardware Components................................................................................................. 27
System Models .......................................................................................................................... 30
Use Case Diagram: ............................................................................................................... 30
Entity-Relationship Diagram (ERD)..................................................................................... 32
Data Driven Models .............................................................................................................. 33
Architectural Design: ................................................................................................................ 40
System Implementation: ........................................................................................................... 43
Software Development.............................................................................................................. 46
CHAPTER 5: IMPLEMENTATION TESTING........................................................................... 49
5.0 Introduction: ........................................................................................................................ 49
5.1 System Functionality Demonstration .................................................................................. 49
5.2 System Testing Validation ................................................................................................... 49
5.2.1 Unit Testing .................................................................................................................. 50
5.2.2 Integration Testing ....................................................................................................... 50
5.2.3 System Testing ............................................................................................................. 51
5.2.4 System Validation ........................................................................................................ 52
5.3 Test Results Performance Evaluation ................................................................................. 52
5.4 Challenges Encountered...................................................................................................... 53

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 5.5 Chapter Summary: .............................................................................................................. 53
CHAPTER 6: CONCLUSION, SUMMARY, LIMITATION RECOMMENDATION .............. 54
6.1 Summary ............................................................................................................................. 54
6.2 Limitations .......................................................................................................................... 54
6.3 Recommendations ............................................................................................................... 55
Conclusion: ............................................................................................................................... 57

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LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1 shows an Arduino UNO board ....................................................................................... 27
Figure 2 shows a moisture sensor ................................................................................................. 27
Figure 3 shows an ultrasonic sensor ............................................................................................. 28
Figure 4 shows a water pump ....................................................................................................... 28
Figure 5 shows a relay module ..................................................................................................... 29
Figure 6 shows an LCD screen ..................................................................................................... 29
Figure 7 shows an I2C Driver ....................................................................................................... 30
Figure 8 shows a buzzer ................................................................................................................ 30
Figure 9 shows a use case diagram ............................................................................................... 31
Figure 10 shows an ERD Diagram ............................................................................................... 33
Figure 11 shows a Level 0 DFD diagram ..................................................................................... 35
Figure 12 shows a Level 1 DFD Diagram .................................................................................... 37
Figure 13 shows an interface diagram .......................................................................................... 39
Figure 14 shows an architectural diagram .................................................................................... 42
Figure 15 shows simulation using TinkerCAD ............................................................................. 44
Figure 16 shows the code for the Microcontroller ........................................................................ 45
Figure 17 shows the code for the Dashboard ................................................................................ 45
Figure 18 shows the questionnaire used ....................................................................................... 61
Figure 19 shows our first interview guide used ........................................................................... 62
Figure 20 shows our second interview guide ................................................................................ 63

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LIST OF ACRONYMS
IoT: Internet of Things

LCD: Liquid Crystal Display

DFD: Data Flow Diagram

ERD: Entity Relationship Diagram

PC: Personal Computer

WSN: Wireless Sensor Network

GSM: Global System for Mobile Communications

UAT: User Acceptance Testing

MIS: Modern Irrigation System

GDP: Gross Domestic Product

FDR: Frequency Domain Reflectometry

IEEE: Institute of Electrical Electronics Engineers

IOSR: International Organization of Scientific Research

IJCSIT: International Journal of Computer Science Information Technologies

IJIRST: International Journal for Innovative Research in Science and Technology

ICACCS: International Conference on Advanced Computing and Communication Systems

ICASS: International Conference on Applied Smart Systems

MDPI: Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute

API: Application Programming Interface

AWS IoT: Amazon Web Services Internet of Things

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 ABSTRACT
Global agricultural production faces significant challenges due to escalating water scarcity

inefficient traditional irrigation practices, which lead to substantial water waste high labor

demands. This project addressed these issues by designing, developing, implementing an

automated smart irrigation system to optimize water usage enhance efficiency at the Ndejje

University Demonstration Farm. Utilizing an Applied Research approach framed within an

Engineering Design Research methodology, the iterative development process involved rigorous

virtual prototyping in Tinkercad for hardware (Arduino, soil moisture ultrasonic sensors, pump,

LCD) software (C/C++ firmware, TypeScript dashboard with SQLite) components, ensuring

design integrity before physical assembly deployment. Data integration was managed via the

Arduino's serial port for local monitoring as a conceptual link to the remote dashboard. The key

findings demonstrated the system's precise monitoring of soil conditions water levels, successfully

automating irrigation cycles based on real-time data. This resulted in significant water savings,

reduced manual labor, provided continuous operational insights through both a local

LCD/LEDs/buzzer interface a remote digital dashboard, confirming the practical application of

IoT principles in agriculture. The study concludes that this developed Smart Irrigation System

offers a cost-effective sustainable solution for modernizing irrigation practices, providing a

valuable model for optimizing resource management, improving crop health, increasing efficiency

in demonstration farms similar agricultural contexts, particularly in water-stressed regions.

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CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background.

Ndejje demonstration farm is a 2.5-acre mixed farm located at Ndejje University, Luweero campus

besides the Agricultural Block. Although it is a mixed farm, this project focuses on its crop

production.

The farm was established with the primary objective of demonstrating various agricultural

technologies best practices to students members of the surrounding community. It serves as a

hands-on learning platform enabling the practical application of theoretical knowledge promoting

innovation in sustainable farming.

Crop cultivation on the demonstration farm includes a variety of plants grown under different

conditions to showcase the different farming methods. Through this, the farm plays a good role in

equipping agriculture students with practical skills encouraging local farmers to adopt improved

techniques for better yields.

Despite its educational purpose, the farm faces challenges during the dry season rainy season

throughout the year. The existing irrigation methods are mostly manual leading to overuse or

underuse of water inconsistent crop yields. These limitations undermine the farm’s ability to fulfill

its purpose of promoting sustainable agriculture

1.2 Problem Statement

Uganda, like many countries in East Africa, faces challenges in sustainable agriculture water

management. The agriculture sector is the backbone of Uganda’s economy employing over 70%

of the population contributing significantly to the GDP. However, irregular rainfall patterns

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inefficient irrigation practices often lead to crop failures food insecurities affecting millions of

livelihoods. This situation is compounded by climate change which has intensified weather

unpredictability made water resources scarcer.

At a localized level, these challenges are evident at Ndejje Demonstration Farm which lead to

unpredictable crop yields. While the farm has some increases in crop production during favorable

seasons, the yields have been inconsistent making planning educational demonstrations difficult.

For example, maize yields recorded in 2021 were approximately 1100 kg per season but this

dropped to around 860 kgs in the 2023 season, according to the farm records. (Ndejje

Demonstration Farm Records, 2023). Similar fluctuations have been noted with other crop yields

disrupting the learning reducing the farm’s effectiveness as a training ground for students.

Additionally, the timing of rainfall often beginning the academic semester of (September to

December) interferes with the planned students’ activities, making it challenging to complete full

crop cycles. This affects the student’s ability to carry out practical agricultural work on individual

basis. Without a dependable efficient irrigation system in place, the demonstration farm remains

to be vulnerable to irregular rainfall patterns hence limiting its productivity its role in promoting

sustainable farming techniques.

1.3. Objectives of the study

1.3.1 Main Objective:

The main objective of this study is to design implement a smart irrigation system that improves

water efficiency enhances agricultural productivity for farmers in Uganda.

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1.3.2 Specific Objectives

1. To improve crop yields by maintaining optimal soil moisture levels hence enhancing plant

health.

2. To develop an automated irrigation system that utilizes real time data from soil moisture

sensors, weather forecasts hence optimize water distribution.

3. To reduce water wastage in selected agricultural sites through a precise, data driven

irrigation system.

1.4 Research Questions:

1. Can the created smart irrigation system reduce the total amount of water used for particular

crops at the Ndejje University Demonstration Farm when compared to the existing

traditional irrigation methods?

2. What is the capacity of the smart irrigation system to monitor soil moisture levels in real-

time integrate weather data, how does this capability contribute to accurate efficient water

application, thereby reducing waste from overflow or over-irrigation?

3. Can the implementation of the smart irrigation system enhance crop yield quality for

specific crops cultivated at the Ndejje University Demonstration Farm, as compared to

traditional irrigation practices?

1.5 Scope of the study

1.5.1 Geographic Scope:

The study is specifically centered on the Ndejje University Demonstration Farm in Ndejje,

Uganda. Implementation testing of the smart irrigation system will be conducted on selected

irrigation plots within the farm's grounds. This focused approach enables a comprehensive

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examination of the farm's unique environmental conditions, soil characteristics, current

agricultural practices

1.5.2 Functional Scope:

1. Monitoring of soil moisture in real time: The system will continuously gather information

on the moisture content of the soil in the specified plots.

2. Automated irrigation control: The system will automatically start stop watering, managing

pumps or valves, based on real-time soil moisture data preset standards for certain crops.

3. Water consumption tracking: By measuring the amount of water used, the system will

enable comparison with traditional methods.

1.6 The Significance of the Study

This research on the design installation of a smart irrigation system at the Ndejje University

Demonstration Farm has significant implications for a number of different stakeholders makes an

important improvement to Uganda's methods for sustainable agriculture.

First of foremost, the study provides an innovative approach for controlling water for the Ndejje

University Demonstration Farm. The farm stands will benefit significantly by improving water

usage in the following way:

Improved Water Conservation: In an environment of increasing scarcity of water, the ability of the

system to distribute precise amounts of water based on real-time demands would significantly cut

down on wasted water, which is an essential first step towards sustainable resource management.

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Chapter 2: LITERATURE REVIEW

2.0 Introduction

Irrigation has attained increasing importance the world over due to the growing demfor food by an

increasing population. The current global population is estimated at approximately 8.23 billion

people as of mid-2025, with an annual growth rate of about 0.85% (Worldometer, 2025a).

Projections indicate this global population will reach around 10.3 billion people in the mid-2080s,

followed by an expected slow decline (United Nations, 2024). Africa's population, standing at

approximately 1.55 billion in mid-2025, is projected to reach nearly 2.5 billion by 2050

(International Monetary Fund, 2023; Worldometer, 2025b). Within Uganda, the population is 45.9

million, with an average annual growth rate of approximately 2.9% according to the preliminary

results from Uganda's 2024 census report (Uganda Bureau of Statistics, 2024).

The application of smart irrigation systems leveraging Internet of Things (IoT) technology holds

significant potential to transform agriculture in Uganda. These systems can effectively optimize

water usage, enhance crop yields, strengthen food security. Consequently, there is increasing

interest in these technologies, evidenced by the establishment of several new systems.

2.1 Introduction to Ugandan Agriculture Traditional Irrigation

Agriculture is the backbone of Uganda's economy, employing about 70% of the population

contributing significantly to the country's GDP (Ugandan Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry

Fisheries, 2023; World Bank, 2024). However, one of the critical challenges facing Ugandan

agriculture is the reliance on traditional irrigation methods, which often lead to inefficient water

use reduced crop yields (FAO, 2022). Traditional irrigation methods such as surface irrigation,

furrow irrigation, basin irrigation, manual irrigation have been used for centuries (Smith and Jones,

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2018). While these methods are simple low-cost, they often come with limitations that hinder

optimal agricultural productivity (National Agricultural Research Organization, 2021). This

section provides an overview of these traditional irrigation methods, their advantages, their

inherent limitations in the context of Uganda.

2.2 Overview of Existing Smart Irrigation Systems Technologies

Sensor-based automation: Recent research continues to emphasize the crucial role of soil moisture

sensors for direct monitoring of soil water content automatic irrigation triggering (Abdelmoneim

et al., 2024; Tenreiro et al., 2020). Studies from this period highlight the refinement of these sensor

networks for improved accuracy consistency. For instance, systems developed in 2025 are

described as leveraging three-point soil moisture sensing (shallow, mid, deep) to provide a full

profile of moisture movement depth penetration, leading to more precise water application

(Agrilynk, 2025). Beyond soil moisture, current systems integrate a wider array of environmental

sensors, including those for temperature, humidity, even weather data, to create more responsive

adaptive irrigation schedules (MDPI, 2024; IRJMETS, 2025). The focus remains on optimizing

water usage by reacting to real-time environmental conditions.

Microcontroller-Based Control: Arduino-compatible microcontrollers (increasingly, more

powerful platforms like ESP32 Raspberry Pi) continue to serve as the central processing units for

these systems due to their affordability, flexibility, ease of programming. Literature from 2020-

2025 showcases various smart irrigation solutions built around these microcontrollers,

emphasizing their role in processing diverse sensor data controlling actuators like water pumps

valves. Recent designs prioritize energy efficiency the ability to operate independently, often

integrating with solar power for remote off-grid locations (IRJMETS, 2025). Microcontrollers are

6
now commonly tasked with executing intelligent algorithms that factor in not only current sensor

readings but also weather forecasts plant water requirements (RJPN, 2024).

IoT for Remote Monitoring Control: The Internet of Things has profoundly revolutionized smart

irrigation in this recent period, making remote monitoring, sophisticated data analysis, remote

control via web or mobile applications commonplace. Studies from 2020 onwards consistently

demonstrate a strong shift towards highly connected agricultural systems. IoT enables real-time

data transmission from remote fields to cloud computing platforms, allowing for dynamic

adjustments to irrigation schedules (IWA Publishing, 2024; 1NCE, 2024). The use of low-power,

scalable communication protocols like LoRa is becoming increasingly prevalent for extensive farm

deployments (PubMed Central, 2025). Furthermore, IoT-enabled systems now frequently

incorporate features like automatic weather station data for precise irrigation needs based on

forecasted rainfall evapotranspiration rates (IWA Publishing, 2024).

Data Analysis Dashboards: With extensive IoT integration, the focus has shifted from mere data

collection to advanced visualization analysis to inform critical irrigation decisions. Projects now

commonly include sophisticated dashboards for presenting real-time historical data, often built

with modern web frameworks. These platforms allow users to gain detailed insights into water

usage efficiency, soil conditions, crop performance, leading to reduced water waste increased crop

yields (agrifoodTEF, 2025). The goal is to provide actionable insights remote management

capabilities, moving beyond simple sensor readings to comprehensive, data-driven decision

support systems (Agrilynk, 2025).

Advanced Techniques: Recent research in this period has seen a significant surge in integrating

more advanced techniques, particularly artificial intelligence (AI) machine learning (ML), for

predictive irrigation scheduling.

sensors, weather stations, even satellite imagery to predict water fertilizer requirements, monitor

crop health, optimize irrigation schedules (Vassar Labs, 2025; IWA Publishing, 2025). Advanced

algorithms like neural networks, decision trees, support vector machines are employed for tasks

such as evapotranspiration estimation, water stress prediction, optimizing irrigation volume timing

(MDPI, 2024; African Journals Online, 2021). The aim is to move from reactive to proactive

irrigation, enabling systems to make autonomous decisions based on forecasted conditions. Deep

reinforcement learning is also being explored for its potential to improve adaptive irrigation

scheduling (ResearchGate, 2024).

Renewable Energy Integration: The sustainability aspect of smart irrigation has gained significant

traction, with extensive research on utilizing renewable energy sources, primarily solar power, to

make systems more self-sufficient environmentally friendly. Solar-powered irrigation systems

(SPIS) are highlighted for their low operating costs, minimal maintenance, environmental benefits,

especially in off-grid agricultural areas (8MSolar, 2025; Global Green Growth Institute, 2024).

2.3 Research Gaps Motivation for the Current Project

While existing literature showcases significant progress in smart irrigation, several areas still

present challenges or opportunities for further development, which motivate the current project:

Practicality Cost-Effectiveness: While high-end solutions exist, making smart irrigation systems

accessible cost-effective for smaller demonstration farms or typical farmers remains a challenge.

The selection of readily available affordable components is crucial.

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Comprehensive Testing Validation: Literature often presents prototypes. Comprehensive

testing, including unit, integration, system-level validation, in a real-world agricultural

environment is essential to prove the system's reliability long-term efficacy.

Specific Contextual Needs: Research often comes from diverse geographical contexts. Tailoring

a system to the specific needs conditions of a location like the Ndejje University Demonstration

Farm provides valuable localized insights.

Addressing Data Flow Dashboard Implementation: While many papers mention dashboards,

the specifics of how data flows from embedded systems to web frameworks (like React

TypeScript, leveraging lightweight databases like SQLite for certain functionalities) are areas that

benefit from practical demonstration.

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CHAPTER 3: METHODOLOGY

3.0 Introduction

This chapter details the research methodology employed in the design, development,

implementation of the Smart Irrigation System at Ndejje University Demonstration Farm. It

outlines the overall research approach, the specific research design adopted, the methods for data

collection, the materials equipment utilized, the procedures for system development testing.

3.1 Research Design

This research project used an Applied Research approach, primarily using an Engineering Design

Research framework which is used for investigating understanding engineering design processes,

products outcomes.

In this project, the Applied Research influenced the development of the Smart Irrigation system

through;

Analysis of the current irrigation practices at the Ndejje Demonstration Farm, identifying specific

inefficiencies in water usage existing infrastructure.

Designing measurable objectives to solve this problem using technology.

Designing, development validating a system prototype to meet these objectives

The developed prototype was tested on under actual operating conditions to assess its functionality,

reliability performance in reducing water usage.

The software development life cycle followed the Iterative methodology; whereby various

components were built in iterative sprints. This was preferred from the Waterfall model due to its

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flexibility adaptability to evolving requirements emphasis on continuous feedback from the

farmers.

3.2 Data Collection Methods:

This study mainly focused on gathering both quantitative qualitative information to evaluate the

performance impact of the smart irrigation system to reduce water wastage. The data collection

instruments included; Interviews Questionnaire.

Interviews: The researchers conducted interviews with the respondents in relation to the set

objectives of the study. Open ended questions were used to give detailed information to

supplement the information obtained from the questionnaire, as structured interviews were useful

not only because they show excellent validity in meta-analytic research, but also provide a chance

to probe the answers understprecisely what they mean.

Questionnaire: This is used for collecting recording information about a particular issue of

interest is mainly made up of a list of questions. We made up a form with both open ended closed

ended questions. This helped us understsome of the requirements as well as problems faced by the

farmers at the Ndejje Demonstration Farm.

3.3 Data Analysis Methods:

After collecting data from the interviews questionnaires, we are able to do content data analysis.

This analysis helped us identify the key challenges needs of the farmers which helped us to develop

a system that meets the user’s requirements like shown below;

Content Data Analysis

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This analysis focuses on identifying key themes, common responses, notable variations in

perspectives regarding current irrigation practices the potential adoption of smart irrigation

systems, as gathered from the questionnaire interview guide.

I. General Information

Questionnaire (Respondent: Bakari Christopher, Age: 30):

Occupation: Agricultural consultant

Crops Grown/Managed: Vegetables

Current Irrigation System Use: Yes

Type of Irrigation System: Manual watering (buckets, hose)

Irrigation Frequency: Weekly

Interview Guide 1 (Interviewee: Kaleema Davis, Date: 13th March 2025):

Farm Description: Greenhouse where tomatoes beans are grown.

Farming Experience: Two years, with experience in drip irrigation.

Typical Irrigation Routine: Manually checks soil moisture by touch sight. If dry, adds water.

Water Sources: Rainwater, well, sometimes collected from basins.

From Interview Guide 2 (Interviewee: Agnes N., Interviewers: Mulyanti Evelyn and

Muwanguzi Solomon, Date: 11th February 2025):

Farm Description: Small piece of land, crops like beans, vegetables (sukuma wiki).

Farming Experience: More than 5 years.

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Typical Irrigation Routine: Wakes up early, waters crops using a watering can. Checks soil by eye

touch. Estimates water needed.

Water Sources: Nearby borehole, sometimes rainwater collected in drums.

II. Current Irrigation Practices and Challenges

Questionnaire:

Challenges with Water Management: Yes

Major Challenges: Water wastage, uneven water distribution

Manual Adjustment Frequency: Weekly

Weather Conditions Affecting Practices: Uneven distribution of water

Interview Guide 1:

Biggest Difficulties/Challenges with Manual Irrigation: Time, labor availability (sometimes needs

2-3 people).

Over-watering/Under-watering Issues: Yes, impacted yields plant health, leading to "other issues."

Unpredictable Rainfall/Dry Seasons Impact: Primarily relies on well water when it doesn't rain,

requiring more effort.

Difficulty Getting Real-time Information on Soil/Water Levels: Yes, cannot know this (relies on

sight).

Interview Guide 2:

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Biggest Difficulties/Challenges with Manual Irrigation: Watering by his tiring some crops may be

missed. Sometimes not enough water, especially in the dry season.

Over-watering/Under-watering Issues: Yes, sometimes pours too much water, leading to

vegetables getting spoiled/rotted, less harvest/yields, some crops not growing well.

Unpredictable Rainfall/Dry Seasons Impact: If it doesn't rain on time, relies on borehole water.

Some crops die because they can't water them all.

Difficulty Getting Real-time Information on Soil/Water Levels: Yes, by the time it's seen with eyes,

it's "already late" plants have suffered.

Labor Required: Takes 2 people meaning that the farm is not very big.

III. Awareness Perception of Smart Irrigation

Questionnaire:

Heard of Smart Irrigation Systems: Yes

Interest in Adopting Smart Irrigation: Yes

Most Useful Features: Soil moisture monitoring sensors, Weather-based automated controls,

Mobile app for remote monitoring control, Alerts notifications for maintenance needs.

Concerns about Technology-based Systems: Yes, concerned about the cost of having the

technology.

Type of Connectivity Available: Wi-Fi

Power Source for Irrigation: Electricity

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Interview Guide 1:

Perceptions of Potential Improvements (if a system automatically watered based on soil dryness):

"Yes, I would adopt this."

Benefits: Would help reduce labor, number of people required, help water crops well.

Importance of Saving Water: Yes, important, especially in the dry season.

Interest in System Showing Moisture Levels: Yes, would be appreciated.

Thoughts on New Technologies for Farming: Believes technology would make life easier for

farmers help water crops with the right amount of water.

Concerns about Adopting Automated Irrigation: Concerned about the expenses required to adopt

the system.

Interview Guide 2:

Perceptions of Potential Improvements (if a system automatically watered based on soil dryness):

It would benefit the plants would never go thirsty because the systems would know when they

need water.

Importance of Saving Water: It is important because if we use too much, it runs out quickly.

Interest in System Showing Moisture Levels: Yes, because knowing exactly would save water

make me yield more plants.

Thoughts on New Technologies for Farming: It makes work a lot easier helps grow more crops. It

is good to adopt learn.

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Concerns about Adopting Automated Irrigation: The expenses, the costs.

IV. Feedback Suggestions

From Questionnaire:

Improvements in Current Irrigation Systems: Right amount/volume of water, time based on

daily weather requirements (precision).

Smart Irrigation Systems Reduce Water Consumption: Yes, because it would only irrigate

when required and in right amount.

V. Synthesis of Key Themes

Across all three respondents’ consistent themes emerge:

Predominance of Manual Irrigation: All respondents primarily rely on manual watering methods

(buckets, watering cans, hoses), using tactile visual cues to determine moisture levels.

Significant Challenges with Manual Irrigation:

Labor Time Intensive: Watering by his described as tiring takes like 2-3 people, highlighting the

substantial human effort time commitment.

Inaccurate Water Management: Farmers admit to uneven water distribution, over-watering

leading to spoilage/rotting, under-watering leading to plants suffering/dying, directly impacting

yields plant health.

Lack of Real-time Information: A critical pain point is the inability to know exact soil moisture

levels, leading to delayed action. By the time visual cues appear, the plants have "already suffered."

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Vulnerability to Climate: Unpredictable rainfall dry seasons severely exacerbate the challenges,

making manual irrigation efforts insufficient leading to crop loss.

High Awareness Eagerness for Smart Irrigation: All three respondents have heard of smart

irrigation express strong interest in adopting such systems. This indicates a general openness to

technological solutions in agriculture.

Clear Understanding of Smart Irrigation Benefits:

Water Conservation: A universally recognized benefit, with smart systems ensuring water is used

only when required and in right amounts, preventing wastage ensuring resources don't run out

quickly.

Improved Plant Health and Yields: The ability to provide precise watering means "plants would

never go thirsty" can lead to "more plants" better harvests.

Reduced Labor and Effort: Automated systems are seen as making "work a lot easier" reducing

the need for multiple people.

Data-driven Decision Making: The desire for systems that show exactly how much moisture is

in your soil highlights a need for precise data to move beyond guesswork.

Overarching Barrier: Cost/Expenses: Consistently, the "expenses" "costs" of acquiring

implementing smart irrigation technology are cited as the primary concern barrier to adoption.

Desired Smart Irrigation Features: Soil moisture monitoring sensors, weather-based automated

controls, mobile apps for remote control, alerts for maintenance are highly desired.

Basic Infrastructure Present: Wi-Fi electricity are mentioned as available, suggesting

fundamental connectivity power sources exist for potential smart system integration.

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VI. Conclusion

This combined analysis reinforces that farmers, even those with varying levels of experience farm

sizes, face similar, significant challenges with traditional irrigation methods, primarily related to

labor, water efficiency, timely information. There is a strong consistent desire for smart irrigation

solutions, driven by a clear understanding of their potential to save water, improve yields, reduce

manual effort. However, the recurring concern about "cost" stands out as the most critical barrier

to adoption. Therefore, successful promotion implementation of smart irrigation in this context

would necessitate:

Affordable Solutions: Developing or subsidizing smart irrigation systems that are financially

accessible to small medium-scale farmers.

Demonstrating Return on Investment: Clearly showing how the initial investment in smart

technology leads to long-term savings in water, labor, increased yields.

Targeted Training: Educating farmers on the use maintenance of these systems, reinforcing their

perceived benefits.

Policy Support: Exploring government or organizational support mechanisms to ease the financial

burden encourage adoption.

3.4 Software Development Method:

The software development life cycle used was an Iterative methodology. This was preferred over

the traditional waterfall model due to its ability for flexibility adaptability, allowing for evolving

requirements incorporating continuous feedback from the farmers. Under this methodology,

various components of the smart irrigation system were built in iterative sprints.

18
Key aspects of the software development methods are as follows:

3.4.1 Software Development Tools

Integrated Development Environment (IDE): Arduino IDE for programming the

microcontroller as well as Visual Studio Code to build used for building the front and back end of

the application.

Programming Language: C/C++ is the primary language for embedded programming on the

microcontroller while TypeScript for both front end back end of the application as well as SQL for

designing the database.

3.4.2 System Modeling Techniques:

These are used to visually represent the system’s architecture, data flow functional processes.

These improve in understanding, designing documenting the system effectively:

Entity-Relationship Diagrams (ERDs): Used to model the structure of data relationships

between entities within the system, especially if data logging storage become more complex.

UML Diagrams (e.g., Use Case Diagrams): Use Case diagrams illustrate the different ways farm

staff interact with the system such as reading status from LCD, responding to buzzer alerts.

Data Flow Diagrams (DFDs): Employed to depict the flow of data within the system, from sensor

readings to data processing, decision-making (e.g., based on moisture water level), actuator

commands.

3.4.5 Testing Evaluation

Rigorous testing evaluation is conducted throughout the system development lifecycle to ensure

functionality, reliability, effectiveness in achieving the project's objectives.

19
Unit Testing

Individual components such as moisture sensor, ultrasonic sensor, LEDs, buzzer, relay, LCD were

tested separately to ensure they function as expected before integration. This included verifying

sensor accuracy actuator responsiveness.

Integration Testing

Once individual components were tested, they are integrated into subsystems such as a moisture

sensor to a microcontroller, an ultrasonic sensor to a microcontroller, a microcontroller controlling

a pump via relay, microcontroller sending data to an LCD via I2C). Testing at this stage ensured

seamless communication interaction between modules.

System Testing

The complete smart irrigation system was tested as a whole in a controlled environment to verify

all functionalities. Automatic irrigation was tested based on various moisture levels under

simulated conditions.

Field Implementation Performance Evaluation

The fully integrated system is deployed on the selected demonstration plot at Ndejje University

Demonstration Farm. Performance evaluation involves:

Functionality Verification: The researchers ensure the system consistently activates deactivates

irrigation based on programmed logic as well as real-time soil moisture data. Verifying correct

operation of LEDs, buzzer, LCD display.

Reliability Assessment: The researcher monitors system uptime, consistency of sensor readings,

stability of control logic over a defined period.

20
Usability Assessment: The researchers gather feedback from farm staff on the ease of interpreting

the LCD display responding to alerts, overall system operation

3.6 Limitations of the study

Although the methodology selected is suitable for this project, certain disadvantages have been

highlighted:

Scope Limitation: The study's implementation is limited to specific areas at the Ndejje University

Demonstration Farm, which means that without additional validation, the results might not be

instantly relevant to large-scale commercial farms or different geographic areas.

Duration of Study: The project is usually completed within a set academic timeline (such as a

final year project), which could restrict how long it takes to collect long-term data for multi-year

performance analysis or seasonal crop cycles.

External Factors: Data collection system performance may be affected by unpredictable external

events (such as extended power failures that affect pumping operation or severe weather that the

system is unable to fully control) or sensor degradation.

Resource Constraints: The availability of certain expensive sensors or equipment, along with

available funds, may require design or scale restrictions.

Technical Expertise of Users: Although farm employees will receive basic training on how to

read the LCD respond to warnings, their initial level of technical comfort with new technologies

may affect how usable they believe them to be require further assistance.

21
Chapter Summary

The research approach implemented in the design, development, assessment of the Smart Irrigation

System at the Ndejje University Demonstration Farm has been completely stated in this chapter.

The project aims to provide a practical, effective, sustainable solution for water usage reduction

by utilizing an Iterative design approach along with an Engineering Design Research framework.

The research is scientific produces accurate findings because to the specified data collection

methods, appropriate tool technology selection, system modeling approaches, rigorous testing

protocols. Additionally, the study's dedication to ethical practical research is demonstrated by its

thorough evaluation of ethical issues recognition of methodological limits. The implementation

details, findings, analysis, conclusions derived from this effective methodological framework will

be presented in the upcoming chapters.

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CHAPTER FOUR: SYSTEM STUDY, ANALYSIS DESIGN

4.0 Introduction

The Ndejje University Demonstration Farm's current irrigation methods are carefully investigated

in this chapter, which is followed by an extensive review of the specifications for a smart irrigation

system. The design of the suggested automatic solution, including its components, architecture,

functioning logic, is its final step. The goal is to close the gap between recognized issues associated

with traditional irrigation techniques an effective, modern relevant solution.

4.1 System Requirements

4.1.1 Functional Requirements

Soil Moisture Monitoring: The system continuously monitors measures the soil moisture content

in the proposed farm using a soil moisture sensor.

Automated Irrigation Control: The system automatically activates the water pump when the soil

moisture content falls below a predefined threshold deactivates it when sufficient moisture is

reached.

Real-time Status Display: The system displays the current soil moisture percentage water level

in centimeters on an LCD screen, providing immediate feedback to farm personnel.

4.1.2 Non-Functional Requirements

Reliability: The system must operate consistently without frequent failures, ensuring continuous

monitoring irrigation when needed.

Accuracy: The water level soil moisture sensor data must be precise enough to allow for accurate

irrigation decisions.

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Cost-effectiveness: The system must be financially realistic for a demonstration farm, meaning

the components must be readily available cheap.

Ease of Use: Farm employees should be able to easily understinterpret the system's interface

(LCD, LEDs, buzzer).

Maintainability: Each component should be easily repaired, troubleshooted, potentially upgraded

due to its design.

4.2 Current System Study

Like many agricultural setups in this region, the Ndejje University Demonstration Farm mostly

uses traditional, frequently manual irrigation techniques. Despite being essential, the traditional

approach has a number of disadvantages:

Manual Monitoring: Irrigation is sensitive unpredictable since soil moisture levels are frequently

determined physically or by poor manual checks. It could be necessary to physically be present in

order to manually check the water levels in storage tanks.

Effective Water Application: Regardless of the actual requirements of plants or the external

environment, irrigation programs are usually time-based or fixed. This often results either

excessive or insufficient irrigation, which wastes a lot of water can result in crop damage from

decay of roots or stress from water.

Absence of Real-time Information: Farmers are unable to make prompt well-informed irrigation

decisions due to a lack of real-time data on soil conditions or water availability.

Limited Flexibility to Variations: The system lacks the ability to adapt effectively to significant

weather or crop water demands changes, such as prolonged dry periods or unexpected rainfall.

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4.2 Proposed System Description:

The proposed Smart Irrigation system is an automated, sensor-based solution designed to reduce

water usage in agricultural environments, specifically made for Ndejje University Demonstration

Farm. The system uses Arduino UNO microcontroller as its central processing unit, integrating

various sensors actuators to enable smart efficient irrigation.

Main Components Functionality:

Soil Moisture Monitoring:

The soil moisture sensor continuously measures the moisture content in the soil, providing an

analog reading to the microcontroller. The microcontroller converts this analog reading into a

percentage giving a clear indication of the soil’s dryness or wetness.

Automated Irrigation Control:

The sensor inputs are processed by the microcontroller using complex logic.

A relay module controls the water pump by securely connecting the higher-voltage pump to the

low-voltage microcontroller.

The irrigation continues until the soil reaches adequate moisture, at when the pump shuts off on

its own.

Real-time Status Display:

A 16x2 Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) screen is integrated into the system (connected via an I2C

driver to Analog Pin A4 (SDA) Analog Pin A5 (SCL)).

The LCD provides immediate, local feedback to farm personnel, displaying the current soil

moisture percentage (e.g., "Moist L 80%") the water level in the reservoir (e.g., "Water L 120cm").

25
Audible Alerts:

A buzzer (connected to Digital Pin 11) serves as an audible warning system.

If an object moves towards the system i.e a critical threshold (e.g., distance < 60 cm), the buzzer

activates, emitting a distinctive sweeping tone to alert farm staff that there is an intruder in the

farm.

Data Output for Monitoring Debugging:

The system also outputs all sensor readings operational statuses to a Serial Monitor (via a USB

connection to a computer). This allows for detailed data logging, debugging, deeper analysis of

the system's performance environmental conditions.

System Development Simulation:

The design development process for this system incorporated a crucial simulation phase. The entire

electronic circuit the programmed logic were first simulated using Tinkercad Circuits. This virtual

prototyping allowed for:

Pre-verification of component connections wiring.

Early debugging refinement of the Arduino code in a risk-free environment.

Observation of system behavior under various simulated conditions before proceeding to physical

construction, thereby saving time resources.

4.3 Tools Technologies Used

The Smart Irrigation System leverages a combination of hardware software tools technologies to

achieve its objectives:

26
4.3.1 Hardware Components

1. Microcontroller: An Arduino Uno serves as the central processing unit, chosen for its

versatility, affordability, robust community support, ease of programming.

Figure 1 shows an Arduino UNO board

2. Moisture Sensor: A moisture sensor detects the dryness level of the soil, providing input

for irrigation decisions.

Figure 2 shows a moisture sensor

3. Ultrasonic Sensor: An ultrasonic sensor is used to measure the water level in the storage

tank or reservoir, ensuring water availability before irrigation.

27
Figure 3 shows an ultrasonic sensor

4. Water Pump (Motor): A water pump is used to deliver water from the source to the

irrigation lines.

Figure 4 shows a water pump

5. Relay: A relay module is used to safely interface the low-voltage microcontroller with the

higher-voltage water pump, acting as an electronic switch.

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Figure 5 shows a relay module

6. LCD Screen: A 16x2 Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) screen is used for local display of

real-time sensor readings system status.

Figure 6 shows an LCD screen

7. I2C Driver: An I2C driver facilitates serial communication with the LCD screen,

simplifying wiring.

29
Figure 7 shows an I2C Driver

8. Buzzer: A buzzer provides audible alerts for critical conditions, such as critically low

water level in the reservoir.

Figure 8 shows a buzzer

9. Power Supply: A reliable power supply unit is designed to power all components.

System Models

Use Case Diagram:

Use Case Diagrams show how a system works from the viewpoint of the user. They show how

various "actors"—such as users or other systems—interact with the system to accomplish

particular objectives.

Actors: Farm Staff, Smart Irrigation system

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Use cases:

1. Monitor Soil Moisture: Soil moisture levels are often measured by the Smart Irrigation

System.

2. Water Level Monitoring (the reservoir): The reservoir's water level is continuously

measured by the Smart Irrigation System.

3. Display System Status: The Smart Irrigation System shows the farm staff or operator the

most recent information on soil moisture water level on the LCD panel.

4. Start Irrigation: When soil moisture levels are low water is available, the Smart Irrigation

System automatically turns on the water pump.

5. Terminate Irrigation: When the water supply is low or adequate moisture is reached, the

Smart Irrigation System automatically turns off the water pump.

Figure 9 shows a use case diagram

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Entity-Relationship Diagram (ERD)

Entities are shown in an ERD, that represents the conceptual framework that exists within a system.

A theoretical ERD can be useful to imagine how data could be organized if monitoring analytical

capabilities were increased, even though the existing Arduino-based system does not use a

traditional database for persistent storage.

Conceptual Entities for Smart Irrigation System:

1. Area: Attributes: AreaID (Primary Key), Name, Location, CropType

2. Sensor: Attributes: SensorID(Primary Key), Type (such as Soil Moisture, Ultra sonic),

Location (connected to AreaID), CalibrationData

3. Reading: Attributes: ReadingID (Primary key), Timestamp, Value, Unit, SensorID

(Foreign key to Sensor)

IrrigationEvent:

Attributes: EventID (Primary Key), StartTime, EndTime, Duration, WaterVolume (if flow sensor

added), TriggerCondition (e.g., "Soil Moisture Low"), PlotID (Foreign Key to Plot).

Equipment:

Attributes: EquipmentID (Primary Key), Type (e.g., Pump, Relay, LCD, Buzzer, LED), Status

(e.g., "ON", "OFF"), MicrocontrollerPin.

Conceptual Relationships:

1. The area has many Sensors (e.g., multiple moisture sensors per plot).

2. Sensor generates many Readings.

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 3. The plot has many IrrigationEvents.

4. IrrigationEvent triggered by Readings (from Soil Moisture Sensor Ultrasonic Sensor).

5. Microcontroller controls Equipment

Figure 10 shows an ERD Diagram

Data Driven Models

Data-driven models illustrate how the data that a system receives immediately influences

influences its behavior. This is essential to the automated functioning of the Smart Irrigation

System.

33
Data Flow Diagrams (DFDs)

These are graphical representations that illustrate the flow of data within a system. They represent

how data enters exits the system, where it is stored, the processes that transform it. DFDs focus on

the movement of information rather than the physical components or control flow.

1. Level 0 DFD

The Level 0 diagram, provides the highest-level view of the system. It shows the entire system as

a single process, along with its external entities (actors or other systems) that interact with it. It

highlights the primary data inputs outputs that cross the system boundary.

For the Smart Irrigation System:

System (Central Process): "Smart Irrigation System"

External Entities:

Soil: Provides raw moisture data.

Water Source (Reservoir): Provides raw water level data.

Farm Staff/Operator: Receives system status, alerts, potentially performs manual interactions.

Data Flows:

1. From Soil to System: Raw Soil Moisture Data

2. From Water Source to System: Raw Water Level Data

3. From System to Soil/Plants: Water Supply (via pump)

34
Figure 11 shows a Level 0 DFD diagram

2. Level 1 DFD

The Level 1 DFD is a "decomposed" view of the single process shown in the Level 0 DFD. It

breaks down the main system into its major sub-processes, showing the data flows between them,

any data stores involved. This level provides more detail about how the system operates internally.

For the Smart Irrigation System:

Processes:

1. Sensor Data Acquisition: Responsible for reading raw data from sensors.

2. Data Processing and Decision Logic: Transforms raw sensor data into meaningful

information applies the irrigation control rules.

3. Actuation and Alerting: Controls the physical components (pump, LEDs, buzzer) based

on decisions.

4. Status Display and Logging: Manages output to the LCD Serial Monitor.

35
Data Stores (Conceptual/Temporary)

Current Sensor Readings: Holds the most recent moisture percentage water level.

Configuration Parameters: Holds thresholds (e.g., dry moisture %, critical water level).

Data Flows:

1. Raw Soil Moisture Data (from Soil to P1)

2. Raw Water Level Data (from Water Source to P1)

3. Processed Moisture % (from P1 to DS1, P1 to P2)

4. Processed Water Level cm (from P1 to DS1, P1 to P2)

5. Thresholds (from DS2 to P2)

6. Irrigation Comm(from P2 to P3)

7. Alert Comm(from P2 to P3)

8. Display Data (from DS1 to P4)

9. Water Supply Activation (from P3 to Soil/Plants)

10. Low Water Alert Trigger (from P3 to Farm Staff/Operator)

11. Pump Status (from P3 to Farm Staff/Operator via LEDs)

12. LCD Output (from P4 to Farm Staff/Operator)

36
Figure 12 shows a Level 1 DFD Diagram

Interface design

Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) Screen:

Purpose: Serves as the primary visual display for presenting key system data.

Content:

The 16x2 character LCD provides two lines of information:

Line 1: Displays the current soil moisture percentage (e.g., "Moist L 80 %").

Line 2: Displays the current water level in the reservoir in centimeters (e.g., "Water L 120 cm").

37
Usability: This provides instant, quantifiable feedback to farm staff, allowing them to quickly

assess the environmental conditions the availability of water at a glance without needing complex

tools or extensive technical knowledge.

Buzzer:

Purpose: Provides an audible alert for critical conditions.

Functionality: Activates when the water level in the reservoir falls below a predefined critical

threshold (e.g., 60 cm). It emits a distinctive sweeping tone to draw immediate attention.

Usability: The audible alarm is crucial for alerting farm staff to low water supply, preventing the

pump from running dry ensuring timely replenishment of the reservoir.

Web-based Dashboard

The system features a web-based application for remote monitoring, detailed data analysis,

potentially remote control.

Purpose: To provide a comprehensive, accessible, historical view of the irrigation system's

operation

Key Features:

Real-time Sensor Readings: Displays current soil moisture levels water reservoir levels, often

presented in numerical form or with gauges.

Historical Data and Trends: Visualizes sensor data over time through graphs charts enabling

users to analyze patterns make data-driven decisions.

Irrigation Status: Clearly indicates whether the pump is currently ON or OFF.

38
Alerts Notifications: Shows active alerts potentially with timestamps severity.

User-friendly Layout: Organized widgets sections make it easy to digest complex data.

Usability and Benefits:

Accessibility: Allows farm managers to monitor manage irrigation operations even when away

from the farm.

Data-Driven Insights: Historical data visualization helps in understanding long-term trends,

optimizing irrigation schedules, identifying potential issues.

Enhanced Awareness: Provides a complete view of multiple parameters simultaneously,

contributing to better decision-making.

Improved Efficiency: Facilitates driven management troubleshooting, potentially reducing site

visits.

Figure 13 shows an interface diagram

39
Architectural Design:

The flexible, layered architecture of the Smart Irrigation System allows for easy maintenance,

scalability, a clear division of responsibilities. Through a digital dashboard, it allows control

capabilities with local sensing actuation.

The system can be conceptually divided into the following layers:

1. Sensing Layer:

Purpose: To collect real-time environmental data from the agricultural field water

source.

Components:

Soil Moisture Sensor: Provides analog readings indicating soil wetness.

Ultrasonic Sensor: Measures the distance to the water surface in the reservoir,

indicating water availability.

Data Flow: Raw sensor data is continuously acquired sent to the Processing Layer.

2. Processing/Control Layer (Microcontroller Unit - MCU):

Purpose: The intelligent core responsible for processing sensor data, applying

control logic, managing local actuators displays.

Components:

Arduino-compatible Microcontroller: Reads data from sensors, executes the pre-

programmed logic for irrigation decisions.

40
 Data Flow: Receives raw data from the Sensing Layer, processes it (e.g., converts

analog readings to percentages, calculates distances), applies decision rules (e.g., if

moisture < threshold water available), sends commands to the Actuation Layer data

to the Interface Layer.

3. Actuation Layer:

Purpose: To perform physical actions in response to decisions made by the

Processing Layer.

Components:

Water Pump: Activated to supply water for irrigation.

Relay Module: Safely switches the higher-power water pump based on low-

voltage signals from the microcontroller.

Buzzer: Provides an audible alert for critical conditions

Data Flow: Receives control commands from the Processing Layer executes

physical actions.

4. Interface Layer:

Purpose: To present system information to the user facilitate interaction. This layer

has two main components:

Local On-Device Interface:

Components: 16x2 LCD Screen (via I2C driver), Buzzer.

41
 Functionality: Displays real-time soil moisture percentage water level in

centimeters. The buzzer alerts for low water levels. This provides immediate, on-

site status.

Remote Digital Dashboard:

Components: A web-based graphical user interface.

Functionality: Receives data from the Processing Layer (via a communication

module). Displays real-time historical sensor data, pump status, alerts, potentially

offers remote control capabilities data analysis tools.

Access: Accessible via web browsers on a computer.

Figure 14 shows an architectural diagram

42
System Implementation:

1. Design Validation and Virtual Prototyping (Pre-implementation)

Before any physical components were assembled, the entire system's design logic underwent a

virtual validation phase using Tinkercad Circuits. This pre-implementation step was instrumental

in:

Circuit Verification: Confirming the accuracy correctness of all electronic connections

component interfacing.

Code Debugging: Thoroughly testing the Arduino program's logic, sensor data

interpretation, decision-making algorithms, actuator control functions in a risk-free,

simulated environment.

Behavioral Assessment: Observing the system's responses to various simulated

environmental conditions (e.g., dry soil, low water levels) to ensure predicted behavior

refine operational thresholds.

2. Hardware Realization Assembly

Following successful simulation, the physical hardware components were carefully assembled

according to the validated architectural design:

Microcontroller as Central Unit: An Arduino-compatible board formed the core,

facilitating data processing control.

Sensor Integration:

The soil moisture sensor was precisely wired to Analog Pin A0 for continuous moisture

detection.

43
 The ultrasonic sensor was connected via Digital Pin 2 (Trigger) Digital Pin 3 (Echo) to

accurately measure water levels.

Actuator Output Device Interfacing:

The water pump was integrated through a relay module connected to Digital Pin 8,

enabling safe electronic switching.

A buzzer (Digital Pin 11) was wired for audible alerts.

User Display Setup:

The 16x2 LCD screen was interfaced using an I2C driver module, simplifying

connections to the Arduino's Analog Pins A4 (SDA) A5 (SCL).

Power Supply Integration: Robust power management was ensured for all components,

matching their specific voltage current requirements.

Figure 15 shows simulation using TinkerCAD

44
Figure 16 shows the code for the Microcontroller

Figure 17 shows the code for the Dashboard

45
Software Development

The application-level software which operates the external digital display the embedded firmware

that runs on the microcontroller are the two distinct but connected levels of software development

for the Smart Irrigation System.

1. Embedded Software Development (Microcontroller Firmware)

This layer constitutes the core operational intelligence residing directly on the Arduino-compatible

microcontroller.

Development Environment: The Arduino IDE served as the primary platform for

writing, compiling, uploading the code to the microcontroller.

Programming Language: The firmware was developed using C/C++, leveraging the

Arduino platform's simplified syntax extensive hardware abstraction libraries.

Key Functionalities:

Sensor Interfacing: Code for reading analog data from the soil moisture sensor processing

pulse signals from the ultrasonic sensor to determine water level.

Data Processing: Algorithms for converting raw sensor readings into meaningful metrics

(e.g., percentage moisture, centimeters of water).

Decision Logic: Implementation of conditional statements thresholds to automate

irrigation decisions (pump activation/deactivation) based on real-time sensor data.

Actuator Control: Functions to send control signals to the relay module for the water

pump, to control the state of the LEDs the buzzer.

46
 Local Display Management: Code for updating the 16x2 LCD screen with current system

status sensor readings.

Serial Communication: Outputting detailed sensor data system messages to the Serial

Monitor for debugging monitoring purposes.

Libraries Utilized: Essential libraries like Wire.h (for I2C communication with the LCD

driver) LiquidCrystal_I2C.h (for simplified LCD control) were integrated to manage

peripheral interactions efficiently

2. Front-end Development (User Interface):

Programming Language: TypeScript is used as the primary language for developing the

React components. TypeScript enhances code quality maintainability by adding static

typing to JavaScript, reducing errors during development improving collaboration among

developers, especially for a complex data visualization application like a dashboard.

Database Management (Data Storage):

Database System: SQLite is employed as the database management system. Given its

lightweight, serverless, self-contained nature, SQLite would be suitable for storing local

configuration data, caching historical sensor readings for faster access, or managing user

preferences directly within the dashboard application (e.g., if it's a desktop application built

with Electron, or for local persistence in a web environment via Web SQL Database API,

although primarily data would flow from a central cloud database for a truly remote IoT

solution). If the dashboard implies a small-scale, localized deployment, SQLite could serve

as the primary data store on a local server.

47
Chapter Summary:

The Smart Irrigation System, which was created to maximize the utilization of water at the Ndejje

University Demonstration Farm, has been extensively designed, developed, implemented in this

chapter.

48
CHAPTER 5: IMPLEMENTATION TESTING

5.0 Introduction:

This chapter focuses on showcasing the operational effectiveness of the Smart Irrigation System,

presenting the tangible outcomes derived from its implementation testing at the Ndejje University

Demonstration Farm. It highlights how the system meets its objectives what insights were gained

during its deployment.

5.1 System Functionality Demonstration

This section provides a practical demonstration of the system, illustrating how each component

contributes to the overall automated irrigation process.

Real-time Sensor Readings: Display of live soil moisture percentage water level in the

reservoir on the LCD screen, confirming accurate data acquisition.

Dashboard Interface: Presentation of the digital dashboard's capabilities, including:

Display of real-time sensor data

Visualization of historical data trends through graphs

Demonstration of pump status indication alert notifications on the dashboard.

5.2 System Testing Validation

This section explains the systematic approach taken to ensure the Smart Irrigation System

functions correctly, reliably, meets its specified requirements.

49
5.2.1 Unit Testing

Unit testing focused on verifying the correct operation of individual components software modules

in isolation.

Sensor Calibration Readout:

Soil Moisture Sensor: Tested by immersing it in various known moisture conditions

(dry, damp, wet) to ensure accurate consistent analog readings, mapping them

correctly to percentage values in code.

Ultrasonic Sensor: Tested by measuring known distances to objects to verify the

accuracy of distance calculations

Actuator Functionality:

Water Pump and Relay: The relay's ability to switch the pump ON/OFF was

tested independently by sending control signals from the Arduino.

Buzzer: When certain control signals are received, the buzzer generates the

appropriate tone.

Code Modules: Specific functions within the Arduino sketch such as readMoisture(),

readWaterLevel() updateLCD() were tested to ensure they performed their intended logic

correctly efficiently without side effects.

5.2.2 Integration Testing

Integration testing focused on verifying the correct interaction data flow between different

modules components when combined.

Sensor-Microcontroller Integration:
50
 Testing involved connecting the soil moisture sensor ultrasonic sensor to the

Arduino to ensure their raw data was correctly acquired interpreted by the

microcontroller's program.

The serial port integration, whereby data was being streamed to the PC's serial

monitor to observe the raw processed sensor values as modules were combined.

Control Loop Integration:

Testing the complete sensing-to-actuation loop: when moisture dropped, the pump

activated; when moisture increased or water level was low, the pump deactivated.

This involved observing the interaction between the moisture sensor, Arduino

logic, relay/pump.

Output Device Integration:

Verifying that sensor data correctly updated the LCD display.

5.2.3 System Testing

System testing involved evaluating the complete, integrated Smart Irrigation System in an end-to-

end manner, replicating real-world operational scenarios.

1. Rigorous Testing: The system was subjected to rigorous cases, such as extreme

dryness, critically low water levels, or rapid changes in conditions, to assess its

stability error handling.

2. Power Consumption Test: Monitoring the overall power consumption to verify

efficiency potential for solar integration.

51
 3. User Interface Responsiveness: Checking the responsiveness clarity of both the

local LCD/LEDs/Buzzer the dashboard.

5.2.4 System Validation

1. Requirement Traceability: Each functional non-functional requirement was

cross-referenced with the test results to ensure it was adequately met.

2. User Acceptance Testing (UAT): Farm staff participated in observing interacting

with the deployed system, providing feedback on its usability, effectiveness,

alignment with their operational needs. This included assessing the clarity of the

local display the utility of the remote dashboard.

5.3 Test Results Performance Evaluation

This section presents quantitative qualitative data collected during various testing phases,

evaluating the system's performance against its defined requirements. The data displayed on the

dashboard would forms these results, illustrating actual operational metrics.

Soil Moisture Monitoring Accuracy: Data logs showing consistency between sensor

readings (as seen on the dashboard local LCD) actual soil conditions (perhaps compared

with manual measurements).

Water Level Detection Accuracy: Data illustrating the precision of the ultrasonic sensor

in measuring water depth, referencing dashboard readouts.

Water Usage Efficiency: Comparison of water consumption with without the smart

irrigation system for similar plots or over different periods, demonstrating actual water

savings. This could involve metrics like liters of water per irrigation cycle or per crop yield,

with historical data potentially pulled from the dashboard.

52
 Response Time: Data indicating the time taken for the system to react (activate/deactivate

pump) once a threshold is crossed.

System Reliability: Uptime records a log of any system failures or malfunctions, along

with their resolutions, potentially drawing incident logs from the dashboard's data.

5.4 Challenges Encountered

1. Sensor Performance in Field Conditions: While sensors performed well in controlled

environments simulations, their longevity consistency of readings in real-world

agricultural soil (which can vary in composition, temperature, compaction) required careful

observation occasional recalibration. Ensuring the durability of sensors against moisture

environmental elements was a practical challenge

2. System Robustness against Environmental Factors: Protecting the electronic

components (Arduino, wiring, relay) from harsh outdoor conditions such as rain, dust,

extreme temperatures, pests required careful enclosure design material selection.

3. User Acceptance Training: While designed for simplicity, ensuring that farm staff fully

understood the local interface could effectively utilize the remote dashboard required some

level of training familiarization.

5.5 Chapter Summary:

In conclusion, the Smart Irrigation System provides a practical, effective, sustainable solution for

modern water management in farming areas, demonstrating the possibility of integrating

technology into agriculture. Despite the difficulties, the project's accomplishment of its main goals

offers a solid basis for further development wider use.

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CHAPTER 6: CONCLUSIONS, SUMMARY, LIMITATIONS AND

RECOMMENDATIONS

The final section gives a brief summary of the entire project, compiles the main findings from the

design testing of the system, lays out the inherent limitations of the current setup, makes

suggestions for future improvements areas of research.

6.1 Summary

The Smart Irrigation System project aimed to develop an automated, sensor-based solution to

optimize water usage in agriculture, specifically for the Ndejje University Demonstration Farm.

The system's architecture comprises a sensing layer (soil moisture ultrasonic sensors), a

processing/control layer (Arduino microcontroller), an actuation layer (water pump via relay,

buzzer). A dual-interface approach was designed, featuring a local LCD display for on-site

monitoring a web-based dashboard (TypeScript, SQLite) for comprehensive data visualization

management. The development process involved structured design phases, including DFDs ERDs,

followed by virtual prototyping in Tinkercad, physical hardware assembly, embedded software

programming. The system was integrated via the Arduino's serial port for data transfer to a PC,

forming a bridge for dashboard connectivity. Through rigorous testing, the system demonstrated

its ability to effectively monitor environmental conditions automate irrigation, thereby addressing

water scarcity labor intensity in farming.

6.2 Limitations

While the current iteration of the Smart Irrigation System delivers on its core functionalities,

several limitations were identified during its development testing:

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 1. Limited Sensor Scope: The system primarily relies on soil moisture water level data. It

does not integrate other crucial environmental parameters such as ambient temperature,

humidity, rainfall data, or soil pH, which could further refine irrigation decisions.

2. Dashboard Interaction: The current web-based dashboard is primarily for monitoring

data visualization. Direct remote-control capabilities (e.g., manually overriding the pump

from the dashboard) are not explicitly implemented, requiring physical presence for full

control.

3. Scalability for Large-Scale Farms: The current setup is more suited for smaller plots or

specific zones. Scaling it to cover vast agricultural lands with multiple irrigation zones

would require a more complex network architecture potentially multiple interconnected

microcontroller units.

4. Environmental Durability: While an enclosure is used, long-term exposure to harsh

agricultural environments (extreme weather, pests, chemical exposure) might affect sensor

component longevity without further ruggedization.

6.3 Recommendations

Based on the insights gained the identified limitations, the following recommendations are

proposed for future enhancements further research:

1. Integrate Additional Sensors: Incorporate sensors for ambient temperature, humidity,

rainfall, potentially soil pH nutrient levels to provide a more holistic understanding of crop

needs enable more sophisticated, context-aware irrigation decisions.

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2. Implement Remote Control Capabilities: Enhance the web-based dashboard to allow

farm staff to remotely activate/deactivate the pump, adjust irrigation thresholds, or set

custom schedules from their mobile phones.

3. Develop a Robust Cloud-Based IoT Platform: Transition from a conceptual

communication bridge to a dedicated, scalable cloud-based IoT platform (e.g., AWS IoT,

Google Cloud IoT Core, Thing Speak) for secure data ingestion, storage, processing, API

provision for the dashboard. This would improve reliability scalability.

4. Incorporate Weather Forecasting: Integrate APIs for local weather forecasting data into

the system's decision-making logic. This would enable predictive irrigation, preventing

unnecessary watering before anticipated rainfall.

5. Explore Machine Learning for Predictive Analytics: Utilize historical sensor data

weather patterns with machine learning algorithms to develop predictive models for

optimal irrigation scheduling, adapting to crop growth stages microclimates.

6. Enhance Power Solutions: Design implement a fully integrated, robust solar power

system with efficient battery management to ensure continuous operation, even in remote

locations without grid access.

7. Multi-Zone Irrigation Management: Develop capabilities for managing multiple,

independent irrigation zones from a single dashboard interface, allowing for tailored

watering based on diverse crop needs or soil types across a larger farm.

8. Develop a Dedicated Mobile Application: Create a native mobile application

(iOS/Android) for the remote dashboard to offer a more seamless intuitive user experience

on smartphones

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Conclusion:

The Smart Irrigation System's main goal of providing a smart reliable way to irrigate crops was

accomplished. The system's potential for significant water conservation resource optimization was

proven by its capacity to effectively control the water supply precisely monitor soil moisture water

levels. It showed that human involvement could be effectively reduced, which reduced labor costs

improved farm productivity. For usability oversight, the deployment of both a comprehensive

remote dashboard an unambiguous local interface proved useful. The project ends with a workable,

dependable, sustainable solution that has the potential to transform conventional irrigation

methods by utilizing IoT technology, despite the usual difficulties involved in combining hardware

software in real-world settings.

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APPENDICES:

Figure 18 shows the questionnaire used

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Figure 19 shows our first interview guide used

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Figure 20 shows our second interview guide

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