CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

In the present day, security systems play an important role in the protection of
lives and investment. This is achieved by the incorporation of various subsystems
into the security system with a single control unit such as surveillance, intruder
control, access control, fire detection, etc. A smart home is one that is equipped
with lighting, heating, and electronic devices that can be controlled remotely by
Smartphone or via the internet. An internet-based home automation system
focuses on controlling home electronic devices whether you are inside or outside
your home (Nathan, Abafor, Aronu & Edoga, 2015). Home automation gives an
individual the ability to remotely or automatically control things around the home.
A home appliance is a device or instrument designed to perform a specific
function, especially an electrical device, such as a refrigerator, for household use.
The words appliance and devices are used interchangeably.

Automation is today’s fact, where things are being controlled automatically

usually the basic tasks of turning ON/OFF certain devices and beyond, either
remotely or in close proximity. Automation lowers the human judgment to the
lowest degree possible but does not completely eliminate it. The concept of
remote management of household devices over the internet from anywhere, any
time in the world today is a reality. Assume a system where from the office desk,
the user could view the status of the devices and decides to take control by tuning
his TV set to his favourite channel, turns on the cooling system, say the air
conditioner, and switches on or off some of the lights. This, the user could walk
back home and only find a very comfortable, pleasant home. The recent
developments in technology which permit the use of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi have
enabled different devices to have capabilities of connecting with each other. Using
a WIFI shield to act as a Micro web server for the Arduino eliminates the need for
wired connections between the Arduino board and computer which reduces cost
and enables it to work as a standalone device. The Wi-Fi shield needs connection

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to the internet from a wireless router or wireless hotspot and this would act as the
gateway for the Arduino to communicate with the internet.

Home automation system is getting popular and widely used in a lot of houses
worldwide. It has tons of advantages to users even more to the handicapped and/or
elderly users in which it will make it easier for them to control their home
appliances. Home automation systems can be labeled to two media in which how
it is connected and they are either wired or wirelessly connected. The main
difference between these two kinds is that home appliances are linked wirelessly
to a central controller if it is a wireless home automation system. On the other
hand, the appliances are connected to a central controller if the medium uses wired
communication method. Wireless system had been introduced in order to dispose
of wired communication among home appliances.

Nowadays, everyone cannot be separated from their smartphones. A number of

five thousand individuals from USA, UK, South Korea, India, China, South
Africa, Indonesia and Brazil took a survey regarding which was done by Time
magazine. The result proved most of them are inseparable from their smartphones,
eighty four percent allegedly claimed that they cannot survive without their
smartphones (Ahmed, 2015). Another study by Nathan, Abafor, Aronu and
Edoga (2016) shows that seventy five percent of the market share is Android and a
total of one hundred and six million android smartphones were shipped in the
second half of 2012. Android Smartphone became the top operating system in the
market in the present time worldwide and it became the most popular operating
system known to man.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

In the present day, home automation is becoming essential for the purpose of
improving life conditions. Home automation offers convenience and ease in the
use of home appliances. This ranges from using a smart phone in turning on a TV
to locking and unlocking doors. It also offers an efficient use of energy. However,
to get or acquire such systems installed costs a lot of money and that is the major
reason why home automation has not received much demand and attention in

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some parts of the world (including Nigeria). In addition, it is also complex to
install and configure. There is therefore the need to develop a cost effective and
easy to configure system so that a lot of people will be willing to acquire it in their
homes, offices and schools.

It is against this backdrop that we undertake a design of a cost-effective home

automation system using arduino board and smartphone.

1.3 Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of this study is to design and implement an automated arduino-based

home automation using android application. The following are the ancillary
objectives of the study.

i. To construct a wireless home automation system controlled by a

smartphone specifically an android device

ii. To design and construct a microcontroller-based system that effectively

controls and monitors devices in the home system.

iii. To develop a remotely control system that enables data transfer through
wireless transfer medium.

1.4 Scope of study

In order to fulfill the stated objectives, several steps must be taken. These steps
involve both software programming and hardware implementation. These steps
are as follows:

i. Establishing a wireless network communication between the android and

the home automation system, using a microcontroller.

ii. Create a simple, yet, reliable home automation system using Arduino as a
microcontroller that will be the medium between the android and the home
appliances.

iii. To find a suitable app that will work efficiently with the Arduino board in
order to control the home appliances.

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iv. Program the Arduino board in a way that will let it interact with the
android app.

The project scope is therefore limited to the above stated objectives.

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study will be undertaken to create a home automation system at low cost and
easy to create, this will benefit both the manufacturer and the client. It will help
the manufacturer by making it easy and cheaper to apply it, and it will also benefit
the clients by making it cost effective and the most important advantage is that it
will make the house a much more convenient place for the clients especially for
the elders and the handicapped.

1.6 Operational Definition of Terms

The following terms are operationally defined.

Algorithm: An algorithm is a self-contained succession of activities to be

performed with a specific end goal to tackle a particular problem. The
algorithm can perform computations, information handling and mechanized
thinking errands

Automated: This is a conversion of a process or facility to be operated by largely

automatic or electronic means.

Automation: The art of making processes or machines self-acting or self-moving.

Automation also means the technique of making a device, machine,
process, or procedure more fully automatic. Automated machinery may
range from simple sensing devices to autonomous robots and other
sophisticated equipment. Automation of operations may encompass the
automation of a single operation or the automation of an entire facility.

Breadboard: A breadboard is a rectangular plastic board with a bunch of tiny

holes in it. These holes let you easily insert electronic components to
prototype (meaning to build and test an early version of) an electronic
circuit, like this one with a battery, switch, resistor, and an LED (light-

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 emitting diode)

Connector: A connector is a coupling device that joins electrical terminations to

create an electrical circuit. Connectors enable contact between wires,
cables, printed circuit boards, and electronic components.

Control: A measure taking to determine the behaviour or supervise the running of

[a system].

DigitalRead: DigitalRead is used to read the status of any digital Pin in Arduino.
We have to give the digital Pin number in the small brackets.

Dupont connector: Dupont is also called Jumper Wire cables. They are low cost
and used to connect hardware such as sensors, Arduino boards and
breadboards together.

Header: A header is a shortened form of pin header. The connector is generally

what plugs into the header.

Home appliances: A home appliance is an electrical/mechanical machine which

accomplishes household functions, such as cooking or cleaning. Also
known as domestic appliances, are electrical machines which helps in
household functions, such as cooking, cleaning or food preservation.

Home Automation: Home automation or domotics is building automation for a

home, called a smart home or smart house. A home automation system will
control lighting, climate, entertainment systems, and appliances. It may
also include home security such as access control and alarm system

Jumper wires: Jumper wires are simply wire that have connector pins at each
end, allowing them to be used to connect two points to each other without
soldering. Jumper wires are typically used with breadboards and other
prototyping tools in order to make it easy to change a circuit as needed.

Male and Female headers: Just like people the Male has a sticking out “pin”
which he plugs into something. The Females on the other hand have a
“hole” in which to receive something, usually a “pin”!

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Male breakaway header: Breakaway header is like the duct tape of electronics.
It’s great for connecting things together, soldering to perf-boards, fits into
any breakout or breadboard, etc.

Pin headers: Pin headers are stiff metallic connectors that are soldered to a circuit
board and stick up to receive a connection from a female socket.

Resistor: A resistor is a passive two-terminal electrical component that

implements electrical resistance as a circuit element. In electronic circuits,
resistors are used to reduce current flow, adjust signal levels, to divide
voltages, bias active elements, and terminate transmission lines, among
other uses.

Smart Connectivity: Smart connectivity relates to the availability of a reliable

data channel between devices and between the human and devices and
enabling an interface to the cloud/network where information gets
personalised.

Smart Home: Smart home is a term that refers to modern homes that have
appliances, lighting and/or electronic devices that can be controlled
remotely by the owner, often via a mobile app. Smart home-enabled
devices can also operate in conjunction with other devices in the home and
communicate information to other smart devices.

Smart Lighting: Smart lighting is a lighting technology designed for energy

efficiency. This may include high efficiency fixtures and automated
controls that make adjustments based on conditions such as occupancy or
daylight availability. Lighting is the deliberate application of light to
achieve some aesthetic or practical effect.

Smart object or device: A smart object is an object that enhances the interaction
with not only people but also with other smart objects. Also known as
smart connected products or smart connected things, they are products,
assets and other things embedded with processors, sensors, software and
connectivity that allow data to be exchanged between the product and its

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 environment, manufacturer, operator/user, and other products and systems.
Connectivity also enables some capabilities of the product to exist outside
the physical device, in what is known as the product cloud.

System: This is a set of interacting or interdependent component parts forming a

complex or intricate whole. Every system is delineated by its spatial and
temporal boundaries, surrounded and influenced by its environment,
described by its structure and purpose and expressed in its functioning. All
parts of a system work together to achieve a common goal. This is a set of
things working together as parts of a mechanism or an interconnecting
network; a complex whole.

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 CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Introduction

The onus of this chapter is to present a review of related works on the subject
matter of investigation. Herein, the review is conducted under the concept of home
automation system, arduino, android and home automation in the real world.

2.2 The Concept of Smart Home and Home Automation

A smart home otherwise known as intelligent home is a simulated intelligent

home environment, populated with appliance agents (Ahmed 2015). Electronic
agents interact and coordinate to perform home tasks efficiently by sharing
resources. The house is a living laboratory for the home, with integrated
ubiquitous sensor architecture. The vision of this project is therefore to develop a
smart home, to study technology that motivates behaviour change in context.

Home automation or domotics is a building automation for a home, called smart

home or smart house. Home automation system control lighting, climate,
entertainment systems and appliances; it could also include home security systems
such as access control and alarm system. When connected with the internet, home
devices are an important constituent of the internet of things (IoTs).

The Internet of Things is an interrelated computing device bet it mechanical or

digital machines, objects, animals or people that are provided with unique
identifiers (UiDs) and have the ability to transfer data over a network. The
definition of the internet of things has evolved due to the convergence of multiple
technologies, real-time analytics, machine learning, commodity sensors and
embedded systems.

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2.2.1 Existing Home Automation Systems

Different types of approaches have been made towards home automation. An

SMS based method uses GSM technology available in phones to communicate
with a microcontroller which acts as the main control for access to home
appliances. A GSM module is also required to be attached to the microcontroller
through a port to enable SMS capability (AlShu’eili, Gupta & Mukhopadhyay,
2011). The disadvantage of such a system is that it is not user friendly, as there is
no graphical user interface, and access codes and command codes must be
remembered to operate the system.

Another approach focuses on voice recognition to send commands through a

wireless RF network. The voice command is captured using a microphone,
digitalized, and sent to a computer to be processed by a program based on Visual
Basic which employs Microsoft speech API. Upon recognition of the voice
command, control signals are sent to the specified appliance addresses for action.
The tested system however was not always accurate in recognising voice
commands. Hand gestures were also proposed as control for home automation
systems by. A small camera is worn as a necklace to observe the various gestures
made by a user’s hand in order to interpret and send command signals. The use of
such technology, however, requires the use of a high-end PC for data processing,
resulting in a higher setup cost.

2.3 Arduino Technology

Arduino is an open source physical processing which is based on a microcontroller

board and an incorporated development environment for the board to be
programmed. The arduino takes a few inputs, for example, switches or sensors,
and, control a few multiple outputs such as lights, engine, etc. An arduino program
can run on Windows, Macintosh and Linux operating systems (OS) as opposed to
most microcontroller frameworks which run only on Windows. Arduino is easy to
program by both beginners and amateurs.

Arduino is instrument used to build a better version of a computer which can

control, interact and sense more than a normal desktop computer. It is an open-

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source physical processing stage focused around a straightforward microcontroller
board, and an environment for composing programs for the board. Arduino can be
utilised to create interactive items, taking inputs from a diverse collection of
switches or sensors and controlling an assortment of lights, engines, and other
physical output. Arduino activities can be remaining solitary or they can be
associated with programs running on a machine (e.g. flash, processing and
maxmsp). The board can be amassed by hand or brought preassembled; the open-
source IDE can be downloaded free of charge. Focused around the processing
media programming language is an execution of wiring, a comparative physical
computing platform (Ahmed 2015).

Terminology

The term Arduino covers the hardware, software, development team, design
philosophy, and morale of the user community. Originally developed in Ivrea,
Italy, Arduino was named after the king of Italy about 1000 years ago, “Arduin of
Ivrea”. The name Arduino is a masculine Italian name meaning “strong friend”,
and is always capitalized being a proper name. The Arduino I/O Board is the
physical, tangible part of the Arduino system. The board is based on the Atmel
AVR ATmega8 microprocessor and later derivatives containing a serial port,
power supply circuitry, expansion connectors, and various support components.

Inside the Arduino

Processor – Atmel ATmega328: The Atmel ATmega328 is the microcontroller

which functions as the brains of the Arduino Uno, containing a central processing
unit (CPU), memory arrays, clocks, and peripherals; basically, a computer on a
chip. ATmega328 can operate from 1.8 to 5.5V, making it suitable for battery-
powered applications. Lower voltages however, have a lower maximum clock
rate. To run at the maximum rated clock rate of 20MHz, at least 4.5V supply is
required. As the Arduino I/O board supplies 5.0V to the ATmega328, the
processor can run at any speed up to the maximum of 20MHz (Barrett 2012). The
ATmega328 comes with a wide variety of features such as: Memory system, Port
system, Timer system, Analog-digital-converter (ADC), and Serial

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communications.

Serial Port

The serial port is used to communicate between the Arduino and PC in the
development stage when uploading programs to the I/O Board. There are several
types of serial communication protocols. The Arduino’s serial port is used in an
asynchronous mode, meaning it doesn’t require an independent clock signal. The
asynchronous method uses one signal to transmit data and another to receive data
(Barret 2012).

Power Supply

There are a number of ways to power an Adruino, the simplest method having the
Arduino’s USB cable connected to a PC. The USB standard allows for the supply
of up to 100mA for an unenumerated USB device and as much as 500mA for a
properly enumerated USB device, which is enough to power several LEDs and
low-power sensors. For greater electrical loads, however, an external, stronger
power supply will be required (Wheat 2011).

Expansion Connectors/Ports

The Arduino Uno provides four sets of expansion connectors with the purpose of
adding additional circuitry: Power connector, Analog connector, and Digital I/O
connectors (2 sets). The power connector provides connection to the main supply
voltages (Vin, 5V, 3V3, GND) as well as the –RESET pin. The analog connector
presents the six analog inputs, A0-A6, which can also be configured to be used as
digital I/O lines (Wheat 2011). In the ATmega328 convention, these digital I/O
connectors are called ports, namely Port B, Port C, and Port D. Each of the I/O pin
has an alternate peripheral function, configurable when programming the Arduino
(Wheat 2011).

Shields

Additional features and external hardware may be added to the Arduino using the
daughter card concept, known as “Shields” in the Arduino convention. These

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shields mate with the expansion connectors on the arduino board, allowing the I/O
Board to act like a small motherboard, providing mechanical and electrical
connections to additional circuitry.

Programming the Arduino

This section will give an overview of how the Arduino Uno is programmed. A
compiler, hosted on a computer separate from the Arduino Uno, produces a
machine code to be uploaded into the Arduino board (.hex file), using the program
source files provided by the program writer (.c and .h files). This is done in three
steps.

- Compilation – program source files are converted into assembly code (.asm
file).

- Assembly language file is then delivered to assembler which then

transforms it into machine code (.hex file) suitable to be uploaded to the
Arduino.

- Program is uploaded into Arduino.

The Arduino Development Environment (ADE) provides users with a friendly

interface making the development and programming process easier. The ADE will
be discussed in more detail in the next subsection (Azrul 2013).

Arduino Development Environment (ADE)

The Arduino Development Environment contains a text editor, a message area for
status displays, a text console, a tool bar of common functions, and a menu bar.
ADE also provides a user-friendly interface allowing for quick code upload, which
is possible as the Arduino is ready-made with a bootloader program (Azrul, 2013).
ADE is a user-friendly interface making the development and programming
process easier.

Verify/Compile

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 Save

New

Open

Upload

Source: Author’s computation, 2020.

Arduino Development Environment buttons

The figure above shows the buttons available on the ADE toolbar. The buttons
provide single click access to the most commonly used features. “Upload to I/O
Board” button compiles written code and uploads it to the Arduino Board, while
“Serial Monitor” button opens the serial monitor feature, allowing text data to be
send to and received from the Arduino board. The other buttons are self-
explanatory.

Sketchbook Concept

In order to make the Arduino a friendly platform for art students, the sketchbook
concept is employed in the Arduino Environment. Programs written are called
‘sketches’ and maintained within a sketchbook in the Arduino environment. An
individual sketch can be accessed via the ‘Sketchbook’ entry under the file tab
(Azrul, 2013).

Built-in Functions

The Arduino Development Environment contains a number of built-in functions

that allow users to construct sketches quickly.

Arduino WiFi Shield

The Arduino WiFi Shield is based on the HDG104 Wireless LAN 802.11b/g
System in-Package (SiP), allowing an Arduino board to connect to the internet
using the 802.11b and 802.11g wireless specifications (WiFi). The WiFi library is
used to write sketches (programs) to connect to the internet using the shield. An
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onboard micro-SD card slot accessible through the SD Library is also available
and can be used to store files for serving over the network (Azrul, 2013).

The Arduino WiFi Shield communicates with the Arduino using the SPI (serial
peripheral interface) bus through the ICSP header, located on pins 11, 12, and 13
on the Arduino Uno. Pin 10 is used to select the HDG104 and pin 4 is used for the
SD card. Additionally, pin 7 is used as a handshake pin between the WiFi shield
and the Arduino. As a result, each of these pins cannot be used for general I/O
(Azrul, 2013). Connecting to a network with the WiFi shield requires the name of
the network, known as SSID (service set identifier) and a password or key
depending on the type of connection. The WiFi shield can connect to open
networks or secured networks with WEP, WPA, or WPA2 encryption. A
password is required for WPA and WPA2 networks, while for WEP a key and key
index is necessary (Azrul, 2013).

2.4 Android Technology

Android is a Linux based operating system which is primarily designed for touch
screen mobile devices such as smart phones and tablet computers. The operating
system has developed a lot in the last 15 years starting from black and white
phones to recent smart phones. The android is a powerful operating system and it
supports large number of applications in Smartphones. These applications are
more comfortable and advanced for the users. The hardware that supports android
software is based on ARM architecture platform. The android is an open source
operating system means that it’s free and any one can use it. The android has got
millions of apps available that can help you managing your life one or other way
and it is available low cost in market at that reason android is very popular.

According to Nikhil, Agrawal and Pande (2017), the first commercial android
version (Android 1.0) was released in September 2008. Since then, it has been
continually developed by Google and the Open Handset Alliance. It has seen a
number of updates to its base operating system since the initial release. Versions
1.0 and 1.1 were not released under specific code names, but since 2009, Android
1.5 Cupcake and other Android versions have had confectionery-themed code

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names. A version of Android KitKat exclusive to Android Wear devices was
released on June 25, 2014, with an API level of 20. Each is in alphabetical order
with Android 7.0 Nougat version released in August 2016 (Nikhil, Agrawal &
Pande, 2017). As at September 03, 2019, the latest version of android system was
version 10.0. Unlike the previous versions, this version did not have an attractive
sweet name or any other type of name beyond the version number.

2.4.1 Android System Architecture Details

Many Android users use their Android phones just for calls, SMS, browsing and
basic apps. However, from the development prospective, one must know about the
Android internal structure. Android uses several partitions like boot, system,
recovery, data etc to organise files and folders on the device just like Windows
OS. Each of these partitions has its own functionality, which most of us do not
know the significance of each partition and its contents. There are mainly 6
partitions in Android phones, tablets and other Android devices (Nikhil, Agrawal
& Pande, 2017).

About applications: The first layer of the android architecture is an application

layer, in this layer your written application which to be installed are available on
this layer only. Example like applications Contacts books, Browser, Games etc.
are available in it.

Application framework: This layer provides many high- level services to

applications in the form of java classes. Applications developers are allowed to
make use of these services in their applications.

Android libraries: Android libraries are available on top of Linux kernel. There
is a set of libraries including open-source Web browser engine web kit, well
known library like SqLite database which is a useful option for storage and
sharing of application data, libraries to play and record and video, secured socket
layer (SSL) libraries responsible for internet security etc.

Android Runtime system: This section which is the third part of the android
architecture, provides a key component called Dalvik Virtual Machine specially

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designed and optimised for android. The Dalvik Virtual Machine makes use of
Linux core features like memory management and multi-threaded, which is
intrinsic in the java language. The Dalvik Virtual Machine enables every android
application to run in its own process, with its own instance of the Dalvik Virtual
Machine.

Android Linux Kernel: In the Linux layers Linux 2.6 with approximately 115
patches. This provides basic system functionality like process management,
memory management, device management like camera, keypad, display etc. also,
the kernel handles all the things that Linux is really good such s networking and a
vast array of device drivers, which take the pain out of interfacing to peripheral
hardware.

2.5 Home Automation in the Real World

In an ideal world, any device that can be connected to a remote network can be
automated and controlled. In the real world, home automation most commonly,
connects simple binary devices. This includes “on and off” devices such as lights,
power outlets and electronic locks. Also, devices such as security sensors which
have only two states, open and closed are automated as well. For a home to
become truly smart, internet enabled devices must be attached to this network and
controlled remotely. The home computer was the classic control unit for which
most of the earlier home automation systems were built or designed. In recent
times, most especially in the 21st century, home automation systems distribute
programming and monitoring control between dedicated devices in the home like
the control panel of a security system interdem with a user-friendly application
interface that can be accessed via internet enabled-PC, smart phone, tablet, etc.

Manufacturers have produced a wide variety of “smart” devices, many of which

are full of innovative features but few of which offer the kind of integration
needed to be part of a complete home automation system. Much of the problem
has been that each manufacturer has a different idea of how these devices should
be connected and controlled. So, while one may have a “smart” TV, washing
machine, refrigerator, thermostat, coffee maker or any of the other Internet-ready

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household devices on the market, the end result is usually a separate control
scheme for each device (Ahmed 2015).

In the near future, home automation may be standardised to let users truly take
advantage of all of these additional possibilities. For manufacturers in the present
times, home security systems specialized in home automation is hinged on the
most critical and useful part of a smart home. This means that doors, windows and
environmental devices (thermostat, smoke detectors, temperature, humidity, fire
and carbon dioxide sensors) at the basic level. For a real-time security,
convenience and control, home automation systems from security providers also
include options for video cameras.

2.5.1 Advantages of Home Automation Systems

The 21st century homes have become more and more self-controlled and
automated due to the comfort automation provides, especially when employed in a
private home. Home automation system serves as a means that allow users to
control electric appliances of varying kind. Many existing and well-established
home automation systems are based on wired communication. This does not pose
a problem until the system is planned well in advance and installed during the
physical construction of the building. Nonetheless, for already existing buildings,
the implementation cost goes very high. In contrast, Wireless systems can be of
great help for automated systems. With the advancement of wireless technologies
such as Wi-Fi, cloud networks in the recent past, wireless systems are used every
day and everywhere. This reduces the hitches associated with wired-network.
Wireless systems like Wi-Fi have become more and more common in automated
homes. Likewise, in home and building automation systems, the use of wireless
technologies gives several advantages that could not be achieved using a wired
network only.

Reduced installation costs: Installation costs are significantly reduced since no

cabling is necessary. Wired solutions require cabling, where material as well as
the professional laying of cables (e.g. into walls) is expensive.

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System scalability and easy extension: The deploying of a wireless network is
especially advantageous as extension of the network is necessary. In contrast to
wired installations, with cabling extension is tedious and this makes wireless
installations a seminal investment.

Aesthetical benefits: This attribute helps to full aesthetical requirements as well

apart from covering longer areas. Examples include representative buildings with
all-glass architecture and historical buildings where design or conservatory
reasons do not allow laying of cables.

Integration of mobile devices: With wireless networks, associated mobile

devices such as PDAs and Smartphones with automated systems become possible
everywhere. Wireless technology is an attractive choice in renovation,
refurbishment and for new installations.

2.6 Review of Related Works

Ahmed (2015) presented an implementation of cost-effective Home Automation

System with a remote control. This framework was intended to help and give help
to satisfy the needs of the elderly and the handicapped at houses. Additionally,
Ahmed (2015) stated that the idea of home automation system will improve the
normal living status at houses. The fundamental control system uses a wireless
Bluetooth device gives a wireless access to smart phones. The system design does
not remove the existing electrical switches and gives a safer control over the
switches with low voltage usage technique. The switches status is synchronised
everywhere each person interface demonstrates the current existing switch status.
This system is designed to control electrical devices throughout the house with
ease of installing it, ease of use and cost-effective design and implement. It was
concluded that home automation system using arduino was a success. This system
consists of an Arduino-Uno board, a Bluetooth Module, an Android phone, power
sockets, home appliances and an android Application (ArduDroid). It is user
friendly and it is cost effective.

Ilyas, Chiktay and Salahuddin (2016) presented a design and prototype

implementation of new home automation system that uses WiFi technology as a

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network infrastructure connecting its parts. The proposed system consists of two
main components; the first part was the server (web server), which presents
system core that manages, controls, and monitors users’ home. Users and system
administrator can locally (LAN) or remotely (internet) manages and control
system code. Second part was hardware interface module, which provided
appropriate interface to sensors and actuator of home automation system. Unlike
most of available home automation system in the market the proposed system is
scalable that one server can manage many hardware interface modules as long as
it exists on WiFi network coverage. System supported a wide range of home
automation devices like power management components, and security
components.

Rajneesh, Abhinav and Sh. Nishant (2015) while investigating internet of things
based controlling of appliances using GSM/GPRS enabled embedded server for
remote access observed that the internet has initially started as the “Internet Of
Computers”, a global network enabling services that now include the World Wide
Web (WWW), File Transfer Protocol and others allowing computers and hence
users to communicate with each other and exchange information. There are
several definitions for the Internet of Things (IoT) that explain what are the main
functionalities of it and what we should expect from when connecting “Things”
with each other and with the internet. Internet of Things (IoT) is an ideal emerging
technology to influence the internet and communication technologies. Simply
“Internet of Things” connects living and nonliving things through internet.

It can therefore be inferred from the above that the main aim of IoTs is to enable
the users to control and monitor smart devices through internet. In this an
interface between users and smart home by using GSM and internet technologies
or simply creating GSM based wireless communication from the web server into
the smart home.

Corroborating the above view in their paper titled “Home Automation Using
Internet of Things”, Vinay and Kusuma (2015) noted that with advancement in
Automation technology, life is getting simpler and easier in all aspects. In today’s
world Automatic systems are being preferred over manual system. With the rapid

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increase in the number of users of internet, IoT is the latest and emerging internet
technology. Internet of things is a growing network of everyday object-from
industrial machine to consumer goods that can share information and complete
tasks while you are busy with other activities. Wireless Home Automation system
(WHAS) using IoT is a system that uses computers or mobile devices to control
basic home functions and features automatically through internet from anywhere
around the world, an automated home is sometimes called a smart home. It is
meant to save the electric power and human energy. The home automation system
differs from other system by allowing the user to operate the system from
anywhere around the world through internet connection.

Sirsath, Dhole, Mohire, Naik and Ratnaparkhi (2013)’s work on “Home

Automation using Cloud Network and Mobile Devices” proposed a Home
Automation system that employs the integration of multi-touch mobile devices,
cloud networking, wireless communication, and power-line communication to
provide the user with remote control of various lights and appliances within their
home. This system uses a consolidation of a mobile phone application and PC
based program to provide a means of user interface to the consumer.

Basil Hamed (2012) designed and implemented a control and monitor system for
smart house. Smart house system consists of many systems that controlled by
LabVIEW software as the main controlling system. Also, the smart house system
was supported by remote control system as a sub controlling system. The system
also is connected to the internet to monitor and control the house equipment’s
from anywhere in the world using LabVIEW.

Deepali, Mohd and Shreerang (2013) also conducted a study and investigated
Home Automation and Security System Using Android ADK. The prime
objective of this paper is to assist handicapped/old aged people. It gives basic idea
of how to control various home appliances and provide a security using Android
phone/tab. The design consists of Android phone with home automation
application, Arduino Mega ADK. User can interact with the android phone and
send control signal to the Arduino ADK which in turn will control other
embedded devices/sensors.

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Basma, Sherine and Mahmoud (2013) proposed a new design for the smart home
using the wireless sensor network and the biometric technologies. The proposed
system employs the biometric in the authentication for home entrance which
enhances home security as well as easiness of home entering process. The
structure of the system is described and the incorporated communications are
analyzed, also an estimation for the whole system cost is given which is
something lacking in a lot of other smart home designs offers. WB-SH is designed
to be capable of incorporating in a building automation system and it can be
applied to offices, clinics, and other places. The authors argued that with an
imagination for the future, the smart home will employ the biometric technology
in a larger and more comprehensive form.

2.7 Summary of Literature Review

This chapter has reviewed works related to home automation, arduino technology
and android technology. It is apparent from the literature review that the rapid
growth of technology has drastically changed the living standards of modern
society. Based on the increasing number of electronic devices being made in a
household, automated home control system has become an increasing useful
feature. Current systems, however, have problems with complexity, high costs,
non-open sources and multiple incompatible standards; resulting in the limited
venture of the home automation into the homes of the rich or hobbyists. This
project intends to design an affordable and easy to use home automation system,
which will be done by interfacing the Arduino microcontroller with wireless
control via Bluetooth while creating a simple, easy-to-use system to control home
appliances.

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 CHAPTER THREE

METHODOLOGY

3.1 Methodology

Methodology simply refers to the definite procedures or techniques used to

identify, select, process, and analyze information about a problem of study.
Methodology is that section which allows the reader to critically evaluate a study's
total validity and reliability. Alan et al, (2012) defined a methodology as a
formalised way or approach to implementing software development life cycle. It is
aimed at splitting software development work into distinct phases (stages) and
each stage containing a particular activity. It is the process used to collect data and
information for the purpose of making good business decision, understanding
organisational problem in a holistic way and for proper analysis and interpretation
of an existing problem. With respect to this work, it focuses on processes and data
generated by such processes and therefore, we adopted the waterfall software
development methodology which was defined by W. Royce in 1970 as a
sequential development process in which development is seen as flowing steadily
downwards through the phases from conception, planning, requirement definition,
design, implementation, verification and maintenance (cited in Alan et al, 2012).

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The methodology is chosen for this project because

 Development phases move in sequence with the users’ needs.

 Each phase is presented for approval before moving to the next phase.

 It identifies needs, specifies requirements and design the model first

before going into implementation.

To achieve these purposes, this chapter tend to answer questions like “the why,
the how or by what means people do what they do”. With respect to this work,
this chapter will be focusing wholistically with detailed analysis and the design of
the proposed home automation system using arduino uno.

3.2 Analysis of the Proposed System

3.2.1 Hardware Components Required

arduino UNO

Proto board

Android phone

Bluetooth module (HC-06)

Android application (to control the arduino via Bluetooth)

Some resistors

jumper wires

Relay modules

Light bulbs

Block connectors.

3.2.2 Software

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 Arduino 1.0.3 (Arduino Software)

Arduino Development Environment

Arduino Bluetooth Home Automation (Android app)

Arduino UNO

This is an open-source platform which is used to develop electronics projects,

which can be programmed, erased and reprogrammed at any time easily. Many
Arduino boards are available in the market such as Arduino UNO, Arduino Nano,
Arduino Mega, Arduino lilypad, etc with having different specification according
to their use. In this project, we are going to use Arduino UNO to control home
appliances automatically.  The ATmega328 microcontroller IC on it runs on
16MHz clock speed. Arduino is a powerful which can work on USART, I2C and
SPI communication protocols. This board is usually programmed using Arduino
IDE and using a micro USB cable. ATmega328 comes with preprogrammed
onboard boot loader which makes it easier to upload the code without the help on
external hardware. The C and C++ language is used to program the board which is
very easy to learn and use. The Arduino IDE makes it much easier to program. It
separates the code in two parts i.e. void setup() and void loop(). The function void
setup() runs only one time and is used for mainly initiating some process whereas
void loop() consists the part of the code which should be executed continuously.

The arduino model consists of 6 analog input pins and 14 digital GPIO pins which
can be used as input-output, 6 of which provides PWM output and analog using
pinMode(), digitalWrite(), digitalRead() and analogRead() functions. 6 analog
input channels are from pins A0 to A5 and provide 10-bit resolution. The board
can be powered either from using a USB cable which operates at 5 volts or by DC
jack which operates between 7 to 20 volts. There is an onboard voltage regulator
to generate 3.3 volts for operating low powered devices. Since the ATmega328
work on USART, SPI and I2C communication protocol, has 0 (Rx) and 1(Tx) pins
for USART communication, SDA (A4) and SCL (A5) pin for I2C and SS (10),
MOSI (11), MISO (12) and SCK (13) pins for SPI communication protocol. These
specifications make Arduino Uno board perfect for Home Automation project.

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HC-06 Bluetooth Module

The HC-06 is a Bluetooth module used for wireless communication; it is

commonly used to establish serial two-way wireless communications between
microcontrollers, smartphones, computers, sensors, etc. The Bluetooth module
range is less than 100 meters and it depends on the atmospheric conditions. It
works on the USART (Universal Synchronous Asynchronous Receiver
Transmitter) protocol to communicate with other devices. It can work both in
master and slave mode with supported band rates 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600,
115200, 230400 and 460800. It works on slave mode and master mode by default,
and it can be configured using AT commands. It can be used to transfer data both
ways from a microcontroller to any device and device to a microcontroller. The
Bluetooth module works in command mode and data mode; while the command
mode is used to access the configuration setting of HC-06 using some AT
commands, the data mode is used to send the data serially. Command mode can be
accessed by grounding the “key” pin and using AT commands; we can change its
setting. There are AT commands which can be used to change the name,
password, baud rate, etc. of the module. Here are few AT commands:

 AT – for checking if the module is communicating or not

 AT+NAME = hc-06 – for changing the name of the device to “hc-05”

 AT+PSWD = 1234 – for changing the password to 1234

 AT+UART = 9600, 1, 0 – for changing the baud rate to 9600, stop bit to 1
and parity bit to 0.

Pin Out of HC-06:

EN/Key pin: This pin is used to set Bluetooth module in either command mode or
data mode. Command mode can be accessed by setting this pin high and data
mode can be accessed setting it low. By default, it is set as low in data mode.

VCC: This is the power supply pin which is connected to either 5V or 3.3V.

Ground: This is the ground pin of the Bluetooth module.

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TXD: This pin used for serial transmission of the data.

RXD: This pin is used for serially receive the data.

State: This pin tells whether the module is connected or disconnected with the
other device.

Table 1: Pin description of HC-06 bluetooth Module

Pin on HC-06 Description

EN/key High – Command Mode, Low – Data Mode

VCC 3.3 V to 5 V

GND Ground

TXD Transmit Serial Data

RXD Receive Serial Data

State Shows module connected or not

Source: Researcher’s computation, 2021.

In this project, HC-06 is used to establish a serial wireless communication

between Arduino Uno and Smartphone. This can be done by connecting Hc-06
with the Arduino Uno and installing an application on the smartphone. Although
there are various applications available for connecting a smartphone to HC-06,
here we are going to use Bluetooth terminal HC-06 which we will develop.
Connect the HC-05 with Arduino UNO. TXD pin of HC-06 goes to RX (pin 0) of
the RXD pin; HC-06 goes to TXD (pin 1) of the Arduino Uno. EN/key is set as
LOW. Turn on the Bluetooth of your smartphone and search for Bluetooth
devices. Connect to the Bluetooth device named as “HC-06”. By default, password

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is either “0000” or “1234”.

HC-06 Bluetooth module has built-in red led which indicates the connection
status. Before any connection, it blinks continuously in some periodic manner and
after it gets connected, its blinking speed slows down.

Application of HC-06 Bluetooth module:

 Computer and peripheral devices

 GPS receiver

 Industrial control

 Microcontroller projects

Relay

A relay is an electromagnetic switch which is operated by a small electric current

to turn on or off one or many bigger circuits. It consists of an electromagnet coil
which converts in a temporary magnet when a small electric current is passed
through it. A relatively small current is used to create a magnetic field in a coil
with a core and this is used to operate a switch that can control a much larger
current. Earlier relays were used in telegraphs and telephone exchanges to amplify
the signals. After the invention of computers relays were used to perform Boolean
and logical operations. Relays come in different sizes and varieties according to
their use in circuits. The main applications of the relay include motor control,
automotive applications, industrial applications, home automation, etc.

Relay Configurations

There are various configurations for a relay’s contacts depending on its use. Four
common types of relays will be discussed here (Azrul, 2013):

Single Pole, Single Throw (SPST): This type of relay uses one coil to control one
switch with two contacts

Single Pole, Double Throw (SPDT): This type of relay uses one coil to operate

| 27
one switch with three contacts.

Double Pole, Single Throw (DPST): One coil is used to operate independent
SPST switches at the same time. It is useful for switching two loads at the same
time.

Double Pole, Double Throw (DPDT): This type of relay uses one coil to operate
two independent DPDT switches at the same time. This relay can be configured as
an H-bridge circuit.

Figure 1: Relay Configurations (Azrul, 2013)

In this project, we are going to use an electromagnetic relay to turn on and off the
home appliances like, bulb, fan or any ac powered source in our home by giving
DC signals from the Arduino UNO. The relay has 6 pins, two of which VCC and
Ground are used to give power to the relay. One pin is the Data pin which is used
to take the signal either “1” or “0” from microcontrollers. Other 3 pins Normally
Closed (NC), Common, Normally Open (NO) are used to connect AC powered

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appliances. This relay works in two conditions either in Normally Open or in
Normally Close condition:

Normally Open: It closes the circuit whenever the relay is activated and it opens
the circuit whenever the relay is deactivated.

Normally Close: It opens the circuit whenever the relay is activated and it closes
the circuit whenever the relay is deactivated.

Table 2: Pinout of Relay

VCC 5V
GND Ground
Data pin “1” or “0” from
microcontroller
NC For Normally Closed Circuit
COM Common
NO For Normally Open Circuit
(Source: Author’s computation, 2021)

 Applications of the relay:

 Relay is used to provide safety-critical logic.

 They are used to control a high voltage circuit with a small voltage signal.

 Relays are also used for protection purpose.

 Relays are used in substation and grids when supplying electricity from one
point to another.

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Functionality

The circuit is designed using Arduino, Bluetooth, relay, and electric bulbs. We
have connected the Bluetooth serially with the Arduino. The relay is used to
operate the home appliances. We have used four relays for four appliances. We
can change the numbers of the relay to operate various home appliances
accordingly. While moving to the hardware, the LEDs will be replaced by Bulbs.
The command for controlling the home appliances will be sent through a
“Bluetooth terminal HC-05 app” from your smartphone to the Bluetooth,
connected to the Arduino. The Arduino reads the data coming serially to the
Bluetooth. Hence, actions are performed according to the command coming from
the Bluetooth to the Arduino.

3.3 Project flow

Gathering the parts needed for the project

Drawing the basic concept

Connect the arduino Uno and the Bluetooth

module
Program the arduino.

Install an android software

Control the arduino using the android

Figure 2: Project Flow

3.4 Programming the Arduino-Uno

In order for the Arduino-Uno board to be able to interact with the application used
in this project certain program (code called sketch) needs to be uploaded to the
Arduino-Uno. Arduino Company provides user friendly software which allows

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writing any code for any function wanted to be performed by the Arduino-Uno
and upload it to the board. See section 3.4.1 below for the full source code of the
Arduino-Uno board.

3.4.1 Project Code (sketch) and Explanation

#include<SoftwareSerial.h>
int bulb1 = 8;
int bulb2 = 9;
int bulb3 = 10;
int bulb4 = 11;
SoftwareSerial bt(0,1); /* (Rx,Tx) */
String str;
void setup() {
bt.begin(9600);
Serial.begin(9600);
pinMode(bulb1,OUTPUT);
pinMode(bulb2,OUTPUT);
pinMode(bulb3,OUTPUT);
pinMode(bulb4,OUTPUT);
}
void loop() {
if (bt.available())
{
str = bt.read();
Serial.println(str);
//bulb1
if(str==”bulb1 on”)
{
digitalWrite(bulb1,HIGH);
Serial.println(“BUlB 1 is ON”);
}
else if(str==”bulb1 off”)
{
digitalWrite(bulb1,LOW);
Serial.println(“BUlB 1 is OFF”);
}
else
{
digitalWrite(bulb1,LOW);
}
//bulb2

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 if(str==”bulb2 on”)
{
digitalWrite(bulb2,HIGH);
Serial.println(“BUlB 2 is ON”);
}
else if(str==”bulb2 off”)
{
digitalWrite(bulb2,LOW);
Serial.println(“BUlB 2 is OFF”);
}
else
{
digitalWrite(bulb2,LOW);
}
////bulb3
if(str==”bulb3 on”)
{
digitalWrite(bulb3,HIGH);
Serial.println(“BUlB 3 is ON”);
}
else if(str==”bulb3 off”)
{
digitalWrite(bulb3,LOW);
Serial.println(“BUlB 3 is OFF”);
}
else
{
digitalWrite(bulb3,LOW);
}
//bulb4
if(str==”bulb4 on”)
{
digitalWrite(bulb4,HIGH);
Serial.println(“BUlB 4 is ON”);
}
else if(str==”bulb4 off”)
{
digitalWrite(bulb4,LOW);
Serial.println(“BUlB 4 is OFF”);
}
else
{
digitalWrite(bulb4,LOW);
}
}
}

3.4.1.1 Program Code Explanation

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To include the libraries required for the project, SoftwareSerial.h library is
imported for serial communication with Bluetooth Module HC-06.

#include<SoftwareSerial.h>

Declaration of variables of output pins of Arduino at 8, 9, 10 and 11 which goes to

data pin of each of the four relays. Variable string “str” stores the data we get from
smartphone using HC-06 Bluetooth Module.

int bulb1 = 8;
int bulb2 = 9;
int bulb3 = 10;
int bulb4 = 11;
String str;
 pinMode(bulb1,OUTPUT);
 pinMode(bulb2,OUTPUT);
 pinMode(bulb3,OUTPUT);
 pinMode(bulb4,OUTPUT);

Bluetooth serial communication and serial monitor are initiated at 9600 baud rate.

  bt.begin(9600);              

  Serial.begin(9600);      

If the data got from the smartphone using Bluetooth Module HC-06 is “bulb1 on”
then we turn on the bulb 1 by setting data pin of the relay as HIGH. If data is
“bulb1 off” then we turn off the bulb by setting the data pin of the relay as LOW.
If no data received for bulb 1 then we set our bulb 1 to LOW. The same thing is
done for bulb 2, bulb 3, bulb 4.

if(str==”bulb1 on”)
     {
      digitalWrite(bulb1,HIGH);
      Serial.println(“BUlB 1 is ON”);

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      }
     else if(str==”bulb1 off”)
     {
      digitalWrite(bulb1,LOW);
      Serial.println(“BUlB 1 is OFF”);
     }
     else
     {
       digitalWrite(bulb1, LOW);
     }

Hence, you can control any home appliance in your home by using Arduino UNO,
Bluetooth, and relay. We have also provided the technical information for the
components required for constructing this project. The circuit diagram consists of
LEDs which will be replaced by the AC bulbs used in the home.

3.4.2 Connecting the Arduino-Uno board to the Bluetooth module

A connection between the Arduino-Uno and the Bluetooth module is required in

order to enable the android to control the Arduino-Uno. First, we need to connect
the VCC pin of the Bluetooth module to the VCC port in the Arduino-Uno board.
Second, we need to connect the GND pin of the Bluetooth module to the GND
port in the Arduino-Uno board. Lastly, we need to connect the receiver of the
Bluetooth module to the transmitter of the Arduino-Uno board and the transmitter
of the Bluetooth module to the receiver of the Arduino-Uno board.

Table 3: Bluetooth module/Arduino connection

Bluetooth Arduin
Module (HC- o-Uno
06) Board
VCC pin VCC
port
GND pin GND
port

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 TX pin RX
port
RX pin TX
port

The above is further illustrated in the figures below.

Figure 3: Bluetooth -Arduino Uno Board connection process.

3.4.3 Android Phone + Android App

In this project, an android phone is used as the remote control for the user
alongside with an App called Arduino Bluetooth Home Automation. Arduino

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Bluetooth Home Automation is a simple Android app that will make controlling
the pins of Arduino-Uno from an Android phone wirelessly possible. Arduino
Bluetooth Home Automation employs a simple Android user interface to control
Arduino Uno's digital and PWM pins, send text commands to Arduino-Uno and
receive data from Arduino over Bluetooth serial module. In this Project the Digital
Pin Function is only required to make the system work, so the Arduino-Uno Board
should be programmed to only support that feature.

3.5 Testing the Connection

After installing the app on the phone and connecting the Arduino-Uno board with
the Bluetooth module, a test to make sure that the phone is interacting with
arduino via the Bluetooth module is needed.

 Open the app in the android device.

 Search for Bluetooth devices via the app.

 Connect to the Bluetooth module.

 If the light in the Bluetooth module stops blinking, then everything is

working fine otherwise the wiring need to be checked.

3.6 Connecting the Appliances to the Arduino Board

After everything is set and ready (android phone is connected to the Arduino)
connecting the Arduino to the home appliances is needed. Using wires and
connector blocks connect the positive end of the home appliance (e.g. portable
fan) to the normally open (in this project we want to make the output active high)
port in the relay module and the negative end of the appliance to a power source.
Then connect the IN-port of the same relay module to the wanted Arduino-Uno
port. Apply the same for the other appliances only use different relays and
different Arduino- Uno Ports. Connect the android phone with the Bluetooth
module and now all the connected appliances can be controlled wirelessly using
the android device.

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Figure 4: Connecting the Appliances to the Arduino Board

3.7 Working of Arduino-Based Home Automation

Make the connection for Home Automation project as given in the circuit diagram.
First of all, we connect the bulb with AC powered sources and with relays as given
in the circuit diagram. Then the relays are given DC power from the Arduino Uno
board. Data pins of the relays are connected at pins 8, 9, 10 and 11 to the Arduino
which are the output pins of Arduino. Then connect the HC-06 module with the
Arduino Board as shown in the diagram and power the Adruino Board. Upload the
code given at the end of the project using Arduino IDE. Turn on the Bluetooth in
your smartphone and connect the HC-06 module by entering the password. By
default, the password is “0000” or “1234”. After successfully connecting your

| 37
smartphone with the HC-06, Open “Bluetooth terminal HC-06 app in your
smartphone” and it will show your device connected to HC-06. Now send the data
“Bulb1 turn on” or “Bulb2 to turn off” to turn on or off any bulb. This is how you
can control other appliances in your home remotely.

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 CHAPTER FOUR

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

This chapter discusses the results and any limitation and/or problems encountered
during the period of the project.

4.1 Results

4.1.1 Mobile App

Figure 5: Mobile App for controlling communication with Arduino via bluetooth
module

As seen in Figure 5 above, the android app helps in establishing the connection
between Bluetooth module. It also helps in controlling the appliance connected to

| 39
the Arduino via Bluetooth module. Once the ON button is pressed on the screen,
the first appliance, in this case, a light bulb will be switched on. Once it is pressed
OFF, it will switch off.

4.1.2 Arduino, Bluetooth and Relay Module Control

The sketch as shown in chapter three was uploaded into the Arduino after
connections (wiring) were done. The code was then uploaded into the Arduino and
tested for communication. Figure 6 below illustrates the connection and
communication between Bluetooth module and Arduino. Thereafter, connection
was also established between the Relay module, Arduino and home appliances and
tested for automation.

Figure 7: Arduino, Bluetooth and Relay Module Control

4.1.3 Packaging of the Entire System

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The whole system was packaged using adapter box. The Arduino was powered
with an adapter of AC 12v 500mA 6VA. The reading represents respectively:
alternating current, maximum output load and power, expressed in VA (that can
always be obtained by means of the P=V*I formula). In some cases, in the place of
the AC abbreviation, the symbol “~” may be found, and it still means “alternating
current”. This reason for packing is because when we want to use an Arduino
board in stand-alone mode, the first problem to face is the one of how to power it,
once it is disconnected from the computer’s USB port. Unfortunately, a faulty
knowledge of the theme of powering sometimes leads people to make
unforgivable mistakes, since the first result is often that of seeing the board go up
in smoke and almost always irremediably, since from that moment it will not work
anymore. Figure 8 below shows the fully packaged system.

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Figure 8: Packaged Home Automation System Prototype Using Adapter Box

4.2 Discussion

We have successfully applied the HOME AUTOMATION SYSTEM USING

ARDUINO and it was user friendly and cost effective. User-friendly as in anyone
can use just a click of a button on an android screen and everything works. And it
is cost effective as in it will cost exactly as the project requires (optimum price).
Home automation market is very auspicious sector which is developing rapidly. It
requires extensive range of developments that can be made in the idea of smart
homes. Modeling and execution of home automation system using Bluetooth
Module and GSM through android application has been discussed in this research.
The proposed system is practical, economical and simple. While using Bluetooth
the motive of the system is to use mobile phone integral feature for automating the
Home. The key advantage of system is if control circuit fails then manual
switching option of traditional method is available.

4.3 Limitations and Problems Encountered

Some problems and issues were encountered during this project. Bluetooth
connection between the android phone and the Arduino-Uno board was

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unsuccessful in the early stages of this project. This problem was encountered
when the HC-05 Bluetooth module was meant to be used for this project. This
problem has been tackled by research on the matter and finally replacing the HC-
05 module with the HC-06 Bluetooth module.

Another issue is it was using the relay modules and connecting them. At first
normal relays were intentioned to be used in the project however soldering them
into a breadboard was troublesome because of the whole not matching the relay
pins and the breadboard needed specific modification, not to mention connecting
everything using soldering iron is not the ideal way if several tests and wiring and
unwiring is in order. This problem was tackled by using relay modules.
Furthermore, one of major limitations of the present research premised on the fact
that the system does not store data in a cloud server since it does not employ the
integration of cloud networking.

CHAPTER FIVE

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 SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

5.1 Summary

This research was set up to establish a home automation system using Arduino
microcontroller and android device as a remote-control through Bluetooth module.
The home automation circuit is built around an Arduino Uno board, Bluetooth
module HC-06 and a 2-channel relay board. The number of channels depends on
the number of appliances you wish to control. Arduino Uno was powered with a
12V DC adaptor/power source. The relay module and Bluetooth module were in
turn, powered using a board power supply of Arduino Uno. Results of the
experiment through the prototype shows that the home appliances can be
controlled using an android app. We can either use on/off buttons to control the
appliances. It is also discovered that we can control more electrical appliances by
increasing the number of channels in the relay used. For instance, using an 8-
channel relay, we can control up to eight devices.

5.2 Conclusion

It can be concluded that HOME AUTOMATION SYSTEM USING ARDUINO

was a success. This system consists of an Arduino-Uno board, a Bluetooth
Module, an Android phone, power sockets, light bulbs and an android Application
(ArduDroid). It is user friendly and it is cost effective. Also, it can be concluded
that the objectives of this project has been successfully met and they are as
follows: (i) constructed a wireless home automation system controlled by a
smartphone specifically an android device, (ii) designed and implement cost
effective home automation system yet an efficient one and (iii) designed a user
friendly and a safe system to control home appliances especially aimed to aid the
elders and handicapped. The motive of making the project cost efficient and user
friendly is taken into account and achieved. The project is comprised of
components such as a Bluetooth module, an Arduino board, an Android mobile
device, optocouplers, and an Android application.

Home automation system can make home even more intelligent. This System can
be used for building automation, industrial automation, hospital automation for

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patients and agricultural automation for farmers. Different sensor can interface
with the system such as motion sensor, light sensor, flame sensor, temperature
sensor etc. Automation toggling of device based on certain situation can also be
implemented WIfi and Ethernet based home automation systems can be
developed.

Using this system as framework, the system can be expanded to a distributed home
automation system that consists of server, sensors. Server controls and monitors
the various sensors, and can be easily configured to handle more hardware
interface module (sensors) with various other options which could include home
security features like capturing the photo of a person moving around the house and
storing it onto the cloud. This will reduce the data storage than using the CCTV
camera which will record all the time and stores it. The system can be expanded
for energy monitoring, or weather stations. This kind of a system with respective
changes can be implemented in the hospitals for disabled persons or in industries
where human invasion is impossible or dangerous, and it can also be implemented
for environmental monitoring.

5.2.1 Implication for Big Data Involvement

It is deduced from the study that IoT has become so vital in daily life and it is
creating a big impact for the future. For example, solutions can be provided
instantly for traffic flows, reminders about vehicle maintenance, reduce energy
consumption, etc. Monitoring sensors will diagnose pending maintenance issues,
and even prioritise maintenance crew schedules for repair equipment. Data
analysis systems will help metropolitan and cosmopolitan cities to function easily
in terms of traffic management, waste management, pollution control, law
enforcement and other major functions efficiently.

Linked devices can help people personally get an alert from the refrigerator
reminding them to shop some vegetables when the vegetable tray is empty, the
home security systems enables people to open the door for some guest with help of
connected devices (IoT). Since there is a massive growth in number of devices day
by day, the amount of data generated would also be enormous. Here is where Big

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Data and IoT go hand in hand.

Big Data manages the enormous amount of data generated using its technologies.
The Internet of Things (IoT) and big data are two vital subjects in commercial,
industrial, and many other applications. The name IoT refers to the world of
machines or devices connected to the Internet, by which a large amount of big data
is collected, stored and managed. Big data additionally refers to the analysis of this
generated data to produce useful results. The main motivating power behind the
IoT and big data has been the collection and analysis of data related to consumer
activities in order to find out why and what customers buy.

It was not too long ago that visualised houses of the future where things would be
done on their own- lights coming on by themselves, coffee being brewed just the
way an individual like, as waking up and taking a shower knowing the weather
outside and adjusting the water temperature accordingly. The world is at a point
where technology to achieve all that has been around for a while and has now
become affordable. Hence, it is not a particularly big surprise that the world is
witnessing some amazing things happening in the world of automation.

5.3 Recommendations

There are some recommendations for Future works. Some of them are:

a) The home automation system was limited to control Lights on/off, Fan
on/off, On/off different appliance which makes use of Bluetooth wireless
control. Future work should make use of cloud networking connection and
also include temperature and humidity, motion detection, fire and smoke
detection and light level control and data stored in a cloud server. This will
enable users to control their homes remotely from anywhere using internet
service and smartphones.

b) There is the need to design a smart home which employs the biometric
technology in a larger and more comprehensive form.

c) Better to use relay modules and connect it directly than using normal relays
with breadboard.

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d) Try to find a way to amplify the Bluetooth module signal to work in greater
distance.

e) Test each and every component before using them especially the relays for
safety purposes.

REFERENCES

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