SMART WATER METER

ABDULRAZAQ MUHAMMAD SANI

BU/16C/ENG/2110

Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering

Baze University

Abuja, Nigeria

[January, 2021]
 SMART WATER METER

ABDULRAZAQ MUHAMMAD SANI

BU/16C/ENG/2110
A thesis submitted to the Faculty of Engineering through the Department of
Electrical and Electronics Engineering in partial fulfillment of the
requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Engineering

in

Electrical and Electronics Engineering

Baze University

Abuja, Nigeria

[January, 2021]
 DECLARATION

BAZE UNIVERSITY

DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING

I, Abdulrazaq Muhammad Sani, confirm that this report and the work presented
in it are my achievements.

I have read and do understand the penalties associated with plagiarism.

Signed: .......................................................

Date: ...........................................................

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 CERTIFICATION
This is to certify that this thesis is fully adequate in scope and quality as undergraduate project
work for the award of the degree of Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical and Electronics
Engineering.

----------------------------------------------------- ------------------
Name and Signature of First Supervisor Date

----------------------------------------------------- -----------
-------
Name and Signature of Second Supervisor (if applicable) Date
This is to certify that this thesis satisfies the requirements as a graduation project for the award of
the degree of Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical and Electronics Engineering.

----------------------------------------------------- ------------------
Name and Signature of H.O.D, Date
Department of -----------------
Engineering

Endorsement of External Examiner:

This is to confirm that this thesis satisfies the requirements as a graduation project for the award
of the degree of Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical and Electronics Engineering.

----------------------------------------------------- ------------------
Name and Signature of External Examiner Date

Approval of the Faculty of Engineering:

----------------------------------------------------- ------------------
Name and Signature of Dean, Date
Faculty of Engineering

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 DEDICATION
I dedicate this project to Almighty God my creator, my source of inspiration, wisdom,
knowledge and understanding.
I also dedicate this project to my father, Barrister Muhammad Sani, my mother, Asabe
Abubakar, my siblings Abdulrasheed, Ruqayya, Zainab, and Fadeela for their endless love,
encouragement, and support, my love for you all will never be quantified. God bless you all

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
First and foremost, I would like to offer my sincere gratitude to my research supervisor Dr. Najashi
Bara’u Gafai, for his guidance, supervision, encouragement, and support throughout this study.
I would not know what research is and how to research if the lecture series of thesis writing and
research methodologies were not offered. So, I would like to offer my sincere gratitude to Dr.
Najashi Bara’u Gafai for feeding the knowledge and guidance for doing researches.
I would also like to thank all the lecturers of the Faculty of Engineering – Baze University, for
their guidance and encouragement to get the maximum use of knowledge and capabilities. Also, I
would like to thank my coursemates Mahmud Jibril Inuwa, Michael Ari, and Khadija Aliyu Kaita
for their support.
Finally, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to Ibrahim Saleh Babandi for his continuous
support given in every possible way to make this project a success.

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 ABSTRACT

In recent years, water demand has increased in households. Consumer awareness regarding daily
water consumption is very low. Traditional water meter unable to get daily consumption efficient
manner and water consumption has been calculating once in a month. It has been calculated
manually. With the advancement of information technology, over the past years, there has not been
any attempt to enhance manual meter reading to automate within Nigeria.
The main objective of this project is to propose and implement a system to identify customer
behaviors and patterns of consuming water using the Smart Water Meter System (SWMS). In
developing nations, the technology of employing smart water meters new to society. Cost savings
and improved operational efficiency of meter reading personnel were achievable.
In some cases, existing water meters are fixed in the backyards, and difficult in granting access to
enter the premises. In such a situation, meter reading personnel has to wait until the customer
opens the gate. There are cases where the customer has been locked and out of the premises and
unable to get the meter reading. In such a situation the meter reading personnel calculates the bill
using an average monthly reading as the current month's consumption. Customer’s point of view
this calculation will not be feasible when the actual reading exceeds the monthly consumption as
charges may vary according to the tariff category they belong. These customers have been
instructed to read their meters themselves and inform a substation after receiving the monthly bill
for alteration. This will be an extra cost to the billing as an officer has to be appointed to solve
these matters.
The proposed system consists of Smart Water Meter (Developed using The Arduino Uno -
microcontroller board, Flow Sensor, SD Card module, and Wi-Fi Shield), Web application. Instant
meter reading has been saved to memory in the control board and periodical time interval data will
be uploading to the cloud system. Customers can be logging into the cloud system and able to
upload their meter reading, download the bill, and upload the evidence of payment during the
given period. With this system, it is expected to facilitate consumers to make better service and
save the water as a resource.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS
DECLARATION ...................................................................................................................... i
CERTIFICATION ................................................................................................................... ii
DEDICATION ........................................................................................................................ iii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT .......................................................................................................iv
ABSTRACT .............................................................................................................................. v
CHAPTER 1 .............................................................................................................................. 1
INTRODUCTION..................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Prologue ........................................................................................................................................1
1.2 Background of Study and Motivation .........................................................................................1
1.3 Research Problem ........................................................................................................................2
1.4 Aim ...............................................................................................................................................3
1.5 Objectives .....................................................................................................................................3
1.6 Summary ......................................................................................................................................3
CHAPTER 2 .............................................................................................................................. 4
LITERATURE REVIEW .........................................................................................................4
2.1 Early Developments .....................................................................................................................4
2.2 Modern Trends.............................................................................................................................5
2.3 Future Challenges ........................................................................................................................5
2.4 Previous Works ............................................................................................................................6
2.5 Summary ......................................................................................................................................8
CHAPTER 3 .............................................................................................................................. 9
MATERIALS AND ANALYSIS TECHNIQUES ....................................................................9
3.1 Materials .......................................................................................................................................9
3.1.1 Flow Sensor............................................................................................................................9
3.1.2 Arithmetic ............................................................................................................................ 10
3.1.3 The Microcontroller board – Arduino Uno ........................................................................ 11
3.1.4 Wi-Fi Module ....................................................................................................................... 13
3.1.5 Web Application .................................................................................................................. 13
3.1.6 Data Model .......................................................................................................................... 13
3.1.7 Smart Water Meter ............................................................................................................. 14
3.1.8 Cloud Computing ................................................................................................................ 15
3.1.9 Technology Stack ................................................................................................................. 15
3.2 System Design ............................................................................................................................. 16
3.2.1 Top Level Architecture of Smart Water Meter .................................................................. 16

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 3.2.2 Software and Hardware Used .............................................................................................17
3.2.3 Implementation of UDP Server ...........................................................................................17
3.2.4 Upload Code Using USB TTL Converter ...........................................................................18
3.2.5 Upload code using Arduino Uno Board (without USB TTL converter).............................18
3.2.6 Implementation of Server Program ....................................................................................18
3.2.7 Universal Asynchronous Receiver and Transmitter (UART) ............................................18
3.2.8 Interconnection of ESP8266 Module and Arduino Uno Board ..........................................19
3.2.9 Implementation of Water Flow Sensor ...............................................................................19
3.2.10 Implementation of Real-Time Clock .................................................................................20
3.2.11 Implementation of Micro SD Card Module ......................................................................21
3.2.12 Interconnection of Micro SD Card Module and Arduino Uno Board .............................22
3.2.13 Integrated Different Module to Main System ...................................................................22
3.2.14 Online Platform .................................................................................................................23
CHAPTER 4 ........................................................................................................................... 26
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION ............................................................................................. 26
4.1 Results.........................................................................................................................................26
4.2 Discussion ...................................................................................................................................27
4.2.1 Key Benefits .........................................................................................................................27
4.2.2 Cons of Smart Meters ..........................................................................................................28
4.2.3 Limitations of Smart Meters ...............................................................................................28
CHAPTER 5 ........................................................................................................................... 30
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION ..................................................................... 30
5.1 Conclusion ..................................................................................................................................30
5.2 Recommendation for Future Work ...........................................................................................30
REFERENCES ....................................................................................................................... 31
APPENDICES ........................................................................................................................ 33
APPENDIX A – Configuration and Installing Modules .................................................................33
APPENDIX B – Use Case Diagram .................................................................................................38
APPENDIX C – Flow Chart ............................................................................................................39
APPENDIX D – The Online Platform .............................................................................................41
APPENDIX E – Codes .....................................................................................................................44
APPENDIX F – Text File for Smart Water Meter Reading ...........................................................46

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 LIST OF TABLES
Table 2.1: Comparison of all the systems .................................................................................... 5
Table 2.2: Comparison of Smart and Analog Meter .....................................................................5
Table 2.3: Summary of literature of Smart Water Meters ............................................................ 6
Table 3.1: Specifications of Water Flow Sensor ..........................................................................9
Table 3.2: Interconnection of ESP8266 Module and Arduino Uno Board .................................. 19
Table 3.3: Pin layout for the Flow Sensor .................................................................................. 19
Table 3.4: Calibration factor of the flow sensors ....................................................................... 20
Table 3.5: Interconnection of DS3231 RTC Module and Arduino Uno Board ........................... 21
Table 3.6: Interconnection of Micro SD Card Module and Arduino Uno Board ......................... 22

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 LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 3.1: Turbine of Flow Meter.............................................................................................. 9
Figure 3.2: YF-S201 Water Flow Sensor .................................................................................. 10
Figure 3.3: Arduino Uno – Microcontroller Board .................................................................... 12
Figure 3.4: Arduino Uno – Microcontroller’s Pin Plan .............................................................. 12
Figure 3.5: ESP8266 Wi-Fi Module.......................................................................................... 13
Figure 3.6: Arduino Platform .................................................................................................... 14
Figure 3.7: Cloud Architecture ................................................................................................. 16
Figure 3.8: Top Level Architecture of Smart Water Meter ........................................................ 17
Figure 3.9: USB TTL converter and ESP8266 .......................................................................... 18
Figure 3.10: Universal Asynchronous Receiver and Transmitter ............................................... 19
Figure 3.11: DS3231 Module ................................................................................................... 21
Figure 3.12: Water Meter Circuit Diagram ............................................................................... 23
Figure 4.1: Tested water consumption in a 4-bedroom of six residents ...................................... 26

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 CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION

1.1 Prologue
A new technology platform is required to sustainably manage urban water resources in Nigeria.
This can be achieved by real-time monitoring of water consumption at domestic, corporate, and
city levels. It will enable the implementation of efficient resources and demand management
strategies. This project aims to better understand the consumption pattern of the customer and
extracting water meter reading data with less human interaction in an efficient manner. This
chapter presents the background of the study, the motivation of the research, research problems,
and the aims and objectives of the research.

1.2 Background of Study and Motivation

In many parts of the world, analog water meters have been installed by water companies to measure
the consumer’s water consumption. These water meters are read monthly by an authorized
employee and the consumer’s bill is computed based on the approval rates according to the amount
of water consumed [1]. Sometimes the customer premises are not easily accessible and
consumption estimates have to be used in the computation of the water bill. This approach is error-
prone as accuracy cannot be guaranteed. The method of manual data collection is also expensive,
labor-intensive, and hence inefficient [2].

Digital water meter allows extracting meter reading electronically with less human interaction.
Cost savings and improved operational efficiency are achievable. Mainly cost savings that could
be created from improved efficiency of meter reading personnel. Once meter reading data is
available, it can be captured and processed like any other signal. Internet, Mobile communication
technology, and other data communication technology makes it possible to bring this signal to
mobile phone or handheld device [3]. This data will be converting information to get a better
understanding of the consumption patterns of water consumers. Smart Water Meters can serve as
networks that can be installed in thousands of households to collect periodic measurements that
are reported in real-time [4].

Water Metering is the process of measuring water use. There are two bases of measuring flow,
these are volumetric basis and weight basis. The basic relationship for determining the liquid’s

1
flow in a pipe is given by the product of the cross-sectional area of the pipe and the average velocity
of the flow. The other factors that affect the liquid flow rate include the liquid’s viscosity, density,
and the friction of the liquid in contact with the pipe [5].

In some cases, existing water meters are fixed in the backyards and therefore it is difficult to get
access to the premises. In such situations, meter reading personnel has to wait until the customer
opens the gate. There are cases where the customers lock their premises, in such a situation, meter
reading personnel is unable to get the meter reading. Water Board is instructed to calculate the
bills using an average monthly water consumption. Obviously, from the customer’s point of view,
this calculation will not be feasible when the actual reading exceeds the monthly consumption.
Because next month, customers have to pay higher bill value because charges may vary according
to the tariff.

1.3 Research Problem

Currently, there is no system to monitor real-time water consumption at domestic, corporate, and
city levels in Nigeria. Some solutions are implemented in the United States, the United Kingdom,
and China to monitor their water consumption. It is necessary to implement an affordable solution
that should be beneficial for the consumer who intends to know their current consumption of water.
Therefore, utilizing commonly available equipment, technologies, and infrastructure for a Smart
Water Meter System has been employed here to solve this problem as implemented in this project.

Studies indicate that the implementation of a prepaid water meter entrenches social inequality and
poverty in society: as the rich use more water as they can pay for it. The two biggest barriers to
prepaid metering in the North American market have been the high cost of meter as customers
have to pay between USD225 – USD400 per installation [1]. Besides, it is viewed as economic
discrimination in terms of racial, social, or cultural profiling. The poor have to consider their
consumption, hindering their water requirements, and productive water use for improving their
livelihood strategies. Productive use of water includes uses such as brewing, animal watering,
construction, and small-scale. An aspect of good neighborliness is lost in cases where prepaid
water meters are introduced, this is because water is likely to be treated as an individualized market
commodity thereby largely excluding the poor from accessing it [6].

Since its development in the United Kingdom, the use of these meters has spread through countries
like Brazil, Egypt, Uganda, Curacao, Nigeria, Tanzania, Swaziland, Sudan, Malawi, Namibia, and
South Africa. Where the common evidence found, that the prepaid system for water supply being

2
enforced on the poor is dangerous environmentally, socially, politically and questionable morally
[7].

Sudden changes in pressure can damage meters to the extent that many meters in cities and
developing countries are not functional. Also, some types of meters become less accurate as they
age, and under-registering consumption leads to lower revenue if defective meters are not regularly
replaced. Many types of meters also register air flows, which can lead to over-registration of
consumption, especially in systems with intermittent supply, when water is re-established and the
incoming water pushes air through the meters. Also, the real working life of prepaid meters is only
about five (5) to seven (7) years, compared to the estimated fifteen (15) to twenty (20) years for
conventional meters [6].

1.4 Aim
This project aims to;

Design and develop a digital water meter.

1.5 Objectives
The objectives of this project can be summarized as follows;

Develop an online platform to upload meter reading, calculate customer’s bills, receive
their bill information, send their evidence of payment using WordPress.
To estimate household water consumption and pattern by recording accurate readings.
To analyze water-saving potential for the residential sector.

1.6 Summary
This chapter gives an overall picture of the entire project. As such, we described the
background of the study and motivation of the research, research problems, aims, and
objectives. Chapter two presents a critical review of the literature on Smart Water Meter.

3
 CHAPTER 2
LITERATURE REVIEW

This chapter provides a literature review of the developments and challenges of the Water Meter
System. For this purpose, the review of the past researches has been presented under three major
sections namely, early developments, modern trends, and future challenges.

2.1 Early Developments

Among the various implementations of the Automated Meter Reading System (AMRS) consists
of two major modules: The Automated Meter Reading Module and Communication Module. The
communication Module uses GSM Network (Global System for Mobile Communications) for data
and SMS messaging services [7]. GSM technology provides SMS service (Short Message Service)
and GPRS (General Packet Radio Service) for requesting and retrieving data. GSM network
widely used without any technical issues for more than several years. It is enabled with an efficient,
reliable, and secure communication standard [8].

ZigBee technology is effective in high-level communication protocols such as creating personal

area networks, low power consumption, and zero traffic. ZigBee technology installation does not
require special permission from the authorities (anyone can transmit) and similarly handles
multiple channels. It uses an unlicensed 2.4 GHz ISM band which is available worldwide. ZigBee
has a range between 10m to 2km and it works well with networks such as Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and
GPRS and also provides a scalable networking solution which is suitable for use in controlling and
monitoring application. GSM has a built-in transport layer encryption, which is supported by most
network providers [9].

WPAN (Wireless Personal Area Network) covers a small geographical area, and it uses the IEEE
802.15 standard. It allows devices to provide communication with each other. Bluetooth is the
standard for enabling wireless communication among mobile computers, mobile phones, and
portable handheld devices. Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) allows sharing information
between different equipment located in a limited distance. WMAN networks use Worldwide
Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX) technology to connect to wide areas
(metropolitan width). It is a wireless communication standard designed with a transfer rate of 30-
40 Mbps. It can transmit much more data and handle over far greater distances [10].

4
Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) networks as the name implies have no physical wired connection
between the sender and receiver, the communication is done by using radio frequency (RF). RF
current is supplied to an antenna, an electromagnetic field is generated, it is then able to broadcast
through space. The keystone of any wireless network is an access point (AP). The primary job of
an access point (AP) is to broadcast wireless signal computers or mobile devices can detect. To
connect to an access point and join a wireless network, the device must be equipped with wireless
network adapters [11].

Table 2.1: Comparison of all the systems

Technology Cost Feasibility Reliability Coverage Communication
Used Protocol
GSM Low Most Feasible High High Stable
ZigBee Medium Small scale Low Low Least stable
WiMAX Medium Small scale Medium Low Stable
Wi-Fi Low Small scale High Low Stable

2.2 Modern Trends

The first attempts of Meter Automation or Automated Meter Reading (AMR) allowed utilities to
remotely read the consumption [12]. Recent Smart Metering Systems are equipped with improved
architecture and include smart sensors and more sophisticated distributed control technology.

Table 2.2: Comparison of Smart and Analog Meter

No. Features Smart Meter Analog Meter
1 Remote Monitoring Possible Not possible
2 Remotely Disconnection of Supply Possible Not possible
3 Maintenance Cost Less High
4 Data Security Avoid error meter reading Error in meter readings

2.3 Future Challenges

Global warming and urban migration have an enormous amount of pressure on resources in many
cities. This fast exhaustion of resources such as water calls for faster and firm actions from
respective authorities to improve the management of resources. The solution must be moving
Analog Water Meter to Smart Water Meter. Smart Water Meter are electronic devices that record
consumption of water in periodic intervals and communicates that information to a server.
Domestic users will be able to monitor their water usage.

5
2.4 Previous Works
Transferring technique, protocol, and future challenges have been discussed so far. As per the
literature review, low-cost data transferring techniques and low power consumption techniques are
more relevant. The literature review has identified various unsolved problems including security,
efficiency, and reliability of Smart Water Meters.

Table 2.3: Summary of the literature on Smart Water Meters

Research Country Technology used Key benefits Limitations
Wireless power meter India ZigBee, GSM An automated The proposed
monitoring with power system of theft system found to be a
theft detection and detection, saving a little bit complex as
intimation system using lot of labor work, far as the
GSM and ZigBee time and cost of distribution network
networks [9] reading is concerned
GSM based Automatic India GSM enabled Generate timely Data transmission is
Energy Meter Reading energy meter, .NET bills, better charged at standard
System with Instant framework, and C# understanding SMS rates
Billing [12] energy demand
patterns, manage
meter failures more
efficiently, and
fraud detection
A Low Cost and Low Vietnam Cluster-based Low Cost and Low The packet loss due
Power Consumption wireless sensor Power Consumption to collision, the
Automatic Water Meter network, GPRS packet delivery
Reading System: gateway delay
Hardware Investigation
and Network Design [3]
Remote Power Meter Russia Bluetooth, GPRS, Three means of It requires a lot of
System [13] Infrared. communication in manual labor and
case one or two travel
prove abortive.
Real-time Water India GPRS It transmits data The monitoring
Monitoring System from multiple system of multiple
[14] meters to a control meters is only
center. Several theoretical and no
meters send their consideration into
data to a data factors such as
collector node which scalability and

6
 then relays the data reliability has been
to the control center. taken.
Smart Metering System Malaysia ZigBee, GSM This system uses a The collector node is
for a Power Utility mesh network however a
Company [15] topology to allow bottleneck, as well
meters too far away as a single point of
from the collector failure as all data
node to transmit needs to flow
their data to nearby through this node to
meters for reach the central
forwarding to the computer.
collector node. This
approach increases
the effective
coverage range of
the collector node.
Smart Water Meters South Korea Magnetic hall The already installed
using Magnetic Sensing sensors sensing a water meter
[16] magnet attached to measures flow by
the impeller of a monitoring a
water meter. rotating magnetic
coupling.
Smart Water Meters South Korea An external camera It requires no An image
using Image Processing module is used to modification of the processing based
[16] capture the water existing meter’s approach would
meter’s display for internal structure. have to be
processing. developed with
specific water meter
models in mind as
the displays would
differ.
Smart Water Meters South Korea A capacitor is The system was
using Capacitive formed by the tested using 300 test
Sensing [16] combination of the samples over 30
metal arrow, the days and had a
copper foil, and the success rate
water between these exceeding 95%.
two conductive
objects.

7
Furthermore, in the comprehensive literature review, some problems need to be addressed in
further research. According to Table 2.3, despite many solutions being available for wireless
sensor networks, they are rather expensive. Therefore, developing a low-cost solution has become
necessary.

The limited number of researches on Smart Water Meter with Wi-Fi connectivity has been
recorded in the literature [17].

2.5 Summary
This chapter presented a comprehensive literature review on the Smart Water Meter research and
identified the research problems as inadequate attention to the reliability of wireless protocols.

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 CHAPTER 3
MATERIALS AND ANALYSIS TECHNIQUES
3.1 Materials
3.1.1 Flow Sensor
The Flow Sensor is a device that detects and measure water flow through pipes. The water flow
meter works with the flow sensor to calculate water flow. The water flows through the rotor blade;
Rotor will start to rotate. Thus, pulses produce an output frequency that is directly proportional to
the volumetric flow rate/total flow rate through the meter [18]. Figure 3.1 shows the Turbine of
Flow Meter block diagram.

Figure 3.1: Turbine of Flow Meter

Table 3.1: Specifications of Water Flow Sensor
Features Details
Model: YF-S201
Sensor Type Hall effect
Max current draw 15mA
Output type 5V TTL
Working Flow Rate 1 to 30 Litres/minute
Working Temperature -25 to +80
Working Humidity 35% - 80% RH
Accuracy ±10%
Maximum Water Pressure 2.0 MPa
Output Duty Cycle 50%
Output Rise Time 0.04 μs

9
 Output Fall Time 0.18 μs
Flow Rate Pulse Frequency (Hz) = 7.5 * Flow rate (L/min)
Durability Minimum 300,000 cycles
Cable Length 15cm
1/2” nominal pipe connections, 0.78” outer
Size 2.5” x 1.4” x 1.4”

Figure 3.2: YF-S201 Water Flow Sensor

3.1.2 Arithmetic
Flow rate can be determined by relating it to different techniques like change in velocity. The flow
rate can vary according to the velocity of the water. Velocity will be dependent on the pressure
through the pipelines. The pipe’s cross-sectional area is known and remains constant. The average
velocity is an indication of the flow rate. The basic relationship for determining the liquid flow
rate in such a case is Q = 𝑉 × 𝐴 …equation 3.1

where Q = flow rate/total flow rate of water through the pipe.

V = average velocity of the flow

A = cross-sectional area of the pipe. (viscosity, density, and friction of the liquid in contact with
the pipe also influence the flow rate of water) [19]

Pulse frequency (Hz) = 7.5 × 𝑄, Q is the flow rate in Litres/minute

𝑃𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒 𝐹𝑟𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑦 ×60 𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑢𝑡𝑒𝑠

𝐹𝑙𝑜𝑤 𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑒 (𝐿𝑖𝑡𝑟𝑒𝑠⁄𝐻𝑜𝑢𝑟) = 7.5𝑄

In other words:

𝑆𝑒𝑛𝑠𝑜𝑟 𝐹𝑟𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑦 (𝐻𝑧) = 7.5 × 𝑄 (𝐿𝑖𝑡𝑟𝑒𝑠⁄𝑀𝑖𝑛𝑢𝑡𝑒)

𝑄 × 𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒 𝑙𝑎𝑝𝑠𝑒𝑑 (𝑠𝑒𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑑𝑠)

𝐿𝑖𝑡𝑟𝑒𝑠 =
𝑠𝑒𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑑𝑠
60 ( 𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑢𝑡𝑒 )

10
 𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒𝑠
𝐹𝑟𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑦(𝑠𝑒𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑑) 𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒 𝑙𝑎𝑝𝑠𝑒𝑑 (𝑠𝑒𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑑𝑠)
𝐿𝑖𝑡𝑟𝑒𝑠 = ×
7.5 60

𝑃𝑢𝑙𝑠𝑒𝑠
𝐿𝑖𝑡𝑟𝑒𝑠 =
7.5 × 60

3.1.3 The Microcontroller board – Arduino Uno

The Uno Microcontroller board consists of 14 digital input/output pins (of which 6 can be used as
PWM outputs), 6 analog inputs, a 16MHz crystal oscillator, a USB connection, a power jack, an
ICSP header, and a reset button. The Uno can simply connect to a computer using a USB cable or
an AC-DC adapter or battery to get started. It consists of an Atmega328 microcontroller [20].

11
Figure 3.3 illustrates the major components of the Arduino Uno microcontroller board and figure
3.4 explains the Microcontroller’s Pin Plan of the Arduino Uno.

Figure 3.3: Arduino Uno – Microcontroller Board

Figure 3.4: Arduino Uno – Microcontroller’s Pin Plan [23]

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3.1.4 Wi-Fi Module
The ESP8266 has a fully Transmission Control Protocol stack support. It can also be configured
as a web server. The module accepts commands via a simple serial interface. The ESP8266 module
is an extremely cost-effective board than Wi-Fi Shield [23]. ESP8266 Wi-Fi Module is shown in
figure 3.5

Figure 3.5: ESP8266 Wi-Fi Module

3.1.5 Web Application
There are numerous technologies available to develop the proposed Web application for Water
Board Billing. ASP.net, C#.net, Java EE, and PHP are commonly used to build a web application.
PHP, C++, JavaScript has been selected for development for the proposed application since there
are many tools for development. The main requirement is calculating the bill and usage
information. The system can cater to a large amount of user’s access simultaneously. Web
application on Apache webserver running on a Linux server which has a low cost of usage when
compared with Windows servers.

3.1.6 Data Model

MySQL is the top choice for developers and open-source nature. It is free and can be used by
anyone without any license or permission. It is under the General Public License. This enables
developers to customize the source code according to their needs and modify the database for their
requirements. As it is a modified version of SQL, general knowledge of SQL is enough to work
efficiently with MySQL [24].

13
3.1.7 Smart Water Meter
Smart Water Meter has five major components namely Flow sensor, Arduino Hardware Interface,
Real-time Clock Module, SD Card Data Logger Module, and Wi-Fi Module.

3.1.7.1 Flow Sensor

This sensor sits in line with the waterline and measures how much liquid has passed through it.
There is an integrated magnetic hall effect sensor that sends out an electric pulse. The hall effect
sensor is sealed, it will allow the sensor to stay safe and dry [25].

3.1.7.2 Arduino Platform

Arduino is an open-source electronics platform based on easy to use hardware and software. A
developer can send a set of instructions to the microcontroller. All Arduino boards are open-source,
empowering users to build them independently, and ultimately adapt them to their particular needs
[26].

Figure 3.6: Arduino Platform

3.1.7.3 Arduino Hardware Interface

Arduino/Genuino Uno board consists of an ATmega328P microcontroller chip. It has 14 digital

input-output pins, 6 analog inputs, a 16 MHz quartz crystal, a USB connection, a power jack, and
a reset button. The ATmega328 on the Arduino Uno comes programmed with a bootloader that
allows uploading new code [27].

14
3.1.7.4 Real-Time Clock Module

The DS3231 is an extremely accurate I2C real-time clock (RTC) with an integrated temperature-
compensated crystal oscillator (TCXO) and crystal. The device consists of an inbuilt battery to
maintain accurate time when the main power is interrupted. The RTC maintains seconds, minute,
hour, day, month, and year information. The clock operates either a 12-hour or 24-hour format
with AM/PM indicator [28].

3.1.7.5 SD Card Data Logger

The SD Card Module is required to save meter reading data. The measurements are read from
sensors (Flow Sensor and Real-Time Clock) and log in to the text file on the SD Card. The data
required is transferred to a mobile device later for the billing. SD Card is cheap and has a massive
storage solution. The Arduino development environment supports a built-in library that supports
the SD Card data logger module.

3.1.7.6 Wi-Fi Module

ESP8266 Module is based on the ESP8266 system on chip (SoC) which consists of a Wi-Fi serial
transceiver. This chip implements a full TCP/IP protocol stack. It has a great computational power
onboard feature. Hosting a simple TCP or UDP on-board server can make a very compact Internet
of Things (IoT) solution [29].

3.1.8 Cloud Computing

Cloud computing is most probably a cost-effective method to maintain and upgrade. Traditional
desktop software needs to pay a higher license fee for vendors. It is a higher cost in terms of
finance. The licensing fees for multiple users have been very expensive but cloud available at
comparatively cheaper rates. Storing information in the cloud gives almost unlimited storage
capacity. Hence, no more need to worry about running out of storage space or increasing current
storage space availability. Once registered in the cloud, the user can access the information from
anywhere when an Internet connection available. This convenient feature lets us move beyond
time zone and geographic location issues.

3.1.9 Technology Stack

Cloud Computing architecture includes many components, which are loosely coupled. Cloud
architecture can broadly divide into two parts: [30]

Front End
Back End

15
3.1.9.1 Front End

The front end refers to the client part of the cloud computing system. A Cloud computing platform
is required applications and interfaces (Web Browser).

3.1.9.2 Back End

The Back End refers to the cloud itself. It contains all of the resources essential to provide cloud
computing services. It contains huge data storage, virtual machines, security mechanism, services,
deployment models and servers, etc.

Figure 3.7: Cloud Architecture

3.2 System Design
3.2.1 Top Level Architecture of Smart Water Meter
Figure 3.8 below describes the input, output, major modules in the system, and the relationship
between each module. Smart Water Meter, Transaction core, Download of meter bills, upload of
meter readings as the four major modules of the Smart Water Meter.

Every module will be described individually in this chapter. Figure 3.8 illustrates the Top Level
architecture of the Smart Water Meter.

16
 Figure 3.8: Top Level Architecture of Smart Water Meter

3.2.2 Software and Hardware Used

Arduino/Genuino Uno uses open-source software (IDE) to program the ATmega328
microcontroller chip.

A separate billing system was developed for the water board. JavaScript was used for the
development of web applications which is an open-source scripting language having Object-
Oriented features. MySQL database uses to keep a record of customer information, water
consumption, and charges. WAMP server consists of Apache, MySQL, and PHP. The cost of an
open-source stack is comparatively low when compared to other technologies such as ASP.NET
and Java.

3.2.3 Implementation of UDP Server

ESP8266 module has been programmed to implement the UDP server. Arduino IDE is used to
develop and upload UDP Server. There are two ways of uploading the Server program to the
ESP8266 module.
Upload code using USB TTL converter
Upload code with Arduino Uno board (without USB TTL converter)

17
3.2.4 Upload Code Using USB TTL Converter

Figure 3.9: USB TTL converter and ESP8266

Figure 3.9 illustrates the connectivity of the USB TTL converter and ESP8266 module using
female-female connecting wires, steps of configuration, and installing relevant libraries in
Appendix A.

3.2.5 Upload code using Arduino Uno Board (without USB TTL converter)
Arduino Uno Board is directly connected to ESP8266 (without USB TTL converter) to upload the
UDP server program. It is required to upload a blank Arduino code into the Arduino Uno Board.
This method is time-consuming than the previous method (discussed in 3.2.4). If blank code does
not upload to Arduino Uno Board, and it ends up with an error message, refer to Appendix B for
detailed instruction.

3.2.6 Implementation of Server Program

ESP8266 module has to be enabled to upload mode by connecting the GP100 pin to GND. While
uploading the program to ESP8266, blue led continually blinks until the end of the upload. After
the upload, the GP100 pin has to be removed from the GND. Default IP address 192.168.4.1 and
the port defined as 23. This sever can connect only one client at a time. Refer to Appendix E –
Figure 4 for the code.

3.2.7 Universal Asynchronous Receiver and Transmitter (UART)

A universal asynchronous receiver and transmitter (UART) plays a major role when implementing
serial communication. The UART works as an intermediary between serial and parallel interfaces.
UART is a bus of eight data lines (some extra control pins included), on the other side there are
two serial wires – RX and TX as shown in Figure 3.10 [30].

18
 Figure 3.10: Universal Asynchronous Receiver and Transmitter
3.2.8 Interconnection of ESP8266 Module and Arduino Uno Board
Table 3.2: Interconnection of ESP8266 Module and Arduino Uno Board
ESP8266 Module Arduino Uno Board
RX 5
VCC 3.3V
GP100 *GND
(at the time of upload)
Rest -
GP102 -
CH_PD 3.3V
GND 3.3V
TX 6

3.2.9 Implementation of Water Flow Sensor

Table 3.3: Pin layout for the Flow Sensor
Flow Sensor Arduino Uno Board
Red 5V
Yellow 2
Black GND

19
 Table 3.4: Calibration factor of the flow sensors
Pipe connections Model Calibration
(Inch)
½ YF-S201 Hall Effect Water Flow 7.5
Sensor
¾ YF-S403 Hall Effect Water Flow 4.0
Sensor
Data wire of the flow sensor connected to Arduino Uno Board pin 2 and its calibration factor fine-
tune as 4.15 in the program, as shown in Appendix E – Figure 2

3.2.10 Implementation of Real-Time Clock

The DS3231 RTC module integrates DS3231 Real Time Clock (RTC) IC which has an internal
crystal and a switched bank of tuning capacitors. The temperature of the crystal is continuously
monitored, and the capacitors are adjusted to maintain a stable frequency. Compared to other RTC
solutions, this DS3231 module drifts less than a minute per year, even in extreme temperature
ranges. This makes the DS3231 module suitable for critical time applications that cannot be
regularly synchronized to an external clock.

3.2.10.1 Features of Real-Time Clock

Some of the features of the Real-Time Clock are;
It can be connected directly to the microcontroller IO ports
Two calendars and an alarm clock
Two programmable square-wave outputs
Real-time clock generator for seconds, minutes, hours, day, date, month, and year
Valid until 2100 with leap year compensation
Battery socket compatible with LIR2032 batteries
3.2.10.2 Installation of DS3231 Real-Time Clock Library to Arduino IDE
Arduino IDE needs to install the DS3231 module library provided by the device vendor to support
Real-Time Clock as illustrated in Appendix A – Figure 3.

20
3.2.10.3 Interconnection of DS3231 Real Time Clock and Arduino Uno Board
Pin layout for the DS3231 Real Time Clock Module and Arduino Uno Board are as follows:

Table 3.5: Interconnection of DS3231 RTC Module and Arduino Uno Board
DS3231 Real Time Clock Module Arduino Uno Board
SCL SCL
SDA SDA
VCC 5V
GND 3.3V
3.2.10.4 Setting up Date and Time to DS3231 Real-Time Clock
The date and Time of the module have to be initialized when using the module for the first time.
The code for initialization is illustrated in Appendix A – Figure 7. The RTC battery's purpose is
to keep the clock running when there is a power failure. Figure 3.11 shows the components of the
DS3231 module.

Figure 3.11: DS3231 Module

3.2.11 Implementation of Micro SD Card Module
The Micro SD (Secure Digital) module is used to keep a big amount of data as storage. This module
enables the plugging of a Micro SD Card to read and write data. Micro SD Cards have an operating
voltage of 3.3V. The module has six pins, two for powering the module, the VCC and the GND
pins, and four more pins for the Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) communication.

21
3.2.12 Interconnection of Micro SD Card Module and Arduino Uno Board
Table 3.6: Interconnection of Micro SD Card Module and Arduino Uno Board
Micro SD Card Module Arduino Uno Board
CS 4
SCK 13
MOSI 11
MISO 12
VCC 5V
GND GND

3.2.12.1 Preparation of Data Logger

The SD library allows for reading and writing to SD Card. The library supports FAT16 and FAT32
file systems on standard SD cards and SDHC cards. It uses short 8.3 names for files (8 bytes for a
file name and 3 bytes for extension). The file names passed to the SD library functions can include
paths separated by forward-slashes, /, e.g. “directory/filename.txt”. because the working directory
is always the root of the SD Card, a name refers to the same file whether or not it includes a leading
slash (e.g. “file.txt” is equivalent to “file.txt”).
The communication between the microcontroller and the SD card uses a Serial Peripheral Interface
(SPI), which takes place on digital pins 11, 12, and 13 (Arduino Uno Board). Additionally, another
pin must be used to select the SD card. This can be the hardware CS pin – pin 4 (Chip select).
Code in Appendix E – Figure 4 illustrates initializing the SD card before data write
3.2.12.2 Formatting SD Card Before Use
SD Card needs to be formatted before used to save data. If the SD Card is not properly formatted,
an error message will be generated. SD Card below 4GB is required to be formatted using FAT16.
SD Card above 4GB is required to be formatted using FAT32. The output shows an error message
when the SD Card is not compatible. Refer to Appendix E – Figure 5 for the output.

3.2.13 Integrated Different Module to Main System

The individual module has been developed separately and requires to be integrated into the
mainboard to build the proposed digital water meter. Based on the discussion in chapter 3, sub-
section 3.1 (Materials), Flow sensor, Real-Time Clock, SD Card Module, and Wi-Fi Module are
required to connect Arduino Uno Board.

3.2.13.1 Main programming code used to integrate hardware modules

Real-Time Clock and SD Card Modules program codes are running on the Arduino Uno
Microcontroller board. ESP8266 Wi-Fi Module program code runs on the chip inbuilt.

22
3.2.13.2 Integrated complete Water Meter

Figure 3.12: Water Meter Circuit Diagram

3.2.14 Online Platform
The process involved in developing the water management system can be categorized into five:

• Domain

• WordPress

• Hosting

• Website

• Plugin

3.2.14.1 Domain
The domain DigitalAgeWaterSystem.com is used. Purchased from NameCheap Registry for
approximately $9.00 for one year.

3.2.14.2 WordPress
The WordPress zip file was downloaded from wordpress.org. This will be extracted in the cPanel
of the hosting plan. The programming languages that made up WordPress are; PHP, MySQL,
JavaScript, HTML, and CSS.

23
3.2.14.3 Hosting
A one-year Stellar Hosting plan was also purchased from NameCheap Registry for approximately
$17.00. This comes along with cPanel where website development and management are carried
out.

The domain name was then hosted on the stellar plan. The process involves;

i. From the NameCheap website, sign in to your account

ii. In the dashboard, click on ‘Go to cPanel situated below the domain name
iii. The cPanel contains various Tabs. In the ‘DataBases’ tab, select the MySQL Database
wizard. This enables you to create a new database for the hosted domain.
iv. After successfully creating MySQL Database, return to the cPanel page. Then select ‘File
Manager’ under the ‘Files’ tab.
v. On the displayed page, a ‘public_html’ can be seen. This is where you can import and
extract the WordPress ZIP file.
vi. After successfully extracting the WordPress files, a WordPress theme named ‘Frontier’
was downloaded from Google search.
vii. It was then extracted in a folder named ‘Theme’ located in the ‘wp-content’ folder.
viii. The above process gets the domain name and WordPress hosted on the stellar hosting plan.

Thereafter, a username and password were created (in the cPanel) for the WordPress dashboard.

3.2.14.4 Website
From the WordPress dashboard, the website was managed. The process involved;

i. Creating two posts on the home page: This is done in the “post” tab in the WordPress
dashboard. The post title is: “Welcome to Water Management System Website: About the
Project” and “How the Website Works”.
ii. A page labeled “Upload Reading” was created in the “Pages” tab of the WordPress
dashboard. This page enables the consumers to upload their monthly reading in form of a
.txt file. The “Upload files” plugin was used for this purpose.
iii. Another page labeled “Current bill” was created in the “Pages” tab of the WordPress
dashboard. This page enables the consumers to download their monthly bills in form of a
.txt file. The “Download” plugin was used for this purpose.
iv. Another page labeled “Upload Receipt” was created in the “Pages” tab of the WordPress
dashboard. This page enables the consumers to upload their evidence of payment (receipt).
The “Upload files” plugin was used for this purpose.
24
 v. All pages edit and update are done in WordPress (not cPanel).

3.2.14.5 Plugin
A WordPress plugin is software that can be uploaded to extend and expand the functionality of
your WordPress site. There are tons of WordPress plugins available for free download from the
wordpress.org plugin directory. There are also premium or paid WordPress plugins.

Plugins were downloaded from the Plugins> Add New, tab in the WordPress dashboard.

The following WordPress plugin is used in this site:

i. Akismet Anti-Spam: Version 4.1.6 created by plugin profile known as ‘Automattic’. Its
function is to protect the website from spam.
ii. Download Manager: Version 3.1.09 created by plugin profile known as ‘W3 Eden’. Its
function is to manage, protect, and track file downloads. This was used on the site to enable
bill download.
iii. Password Protect WordPress Lite: Version 1.5.2 created by plugin profile known as
‘BWPS’. Its function is to password-protect the WordPress site. This was used on the
website to enable file upload and download only after login.
iv. WordPress File Upload: Version 4.14.4 created by plugin profile known as ‘Nickolas
Bossinas’. Its function is to enable file upload. This was used in the site to enable reading
.txt files and receipts.

25
 CHAPTER 4
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
4.1 Results
The outcome of this project is a simple Arduino-controlled smart water meter that measures the
amount of water consumed by the residential sector. During the operation of the meter, water flows
through the flow sensor which is a device that detects and measures water flow through pipes. The
water flow follows through the rotor blade. Thus, pulses produce an output frequency that is
directly proportional to the volumetric flow rate/total flow rate through the meter. The
microcontroller then communicates with the Real-Time Clock Module, SD Card Data Logger
Module, and Wi-Fi Module.

1st Week
700 650
592 603 579
600 570 560

500
LITRES

400
309
300

200
100

0
MON TUE WED THURS FRI SAT SUN
DAYS

Figure 4.1: Test for week one

2nd week
800
700
600
500
LITRES

400
300
200
100
0
MON TUE WED THURS FRI SAT SUN
DAYS

Figure 4.2: Test for week two

26
The figures 4.1 and 4.2 above represents the results of water consumed in a 4-bedroom consisting
of six residents in a week. It is plotted to show the graphical image of water consumption by the
residents. The smart water meter was placed on the outgoing pipe from the tank connected to the
house, the average water consumed daily in the first week as calculated with this data is 552 litres
and 564 litres in the 2nd week. So using percentage error to calculate the percentage of water saved
between week one and two, the water consumed in week one is saved by 2.128% compared to
week two.

Refer to Appendix F for the meter reading text file which contains data for Monday 14th September
2020 and Tuesday 15th September 2020. The reading is used to plot the graph in figure 4.1 The
completed smart water meter would be more feasible to the ‘GSM Based Automatic Energy Meter
Reading System with Instant Billing’ because, in locations where the standard SMS charge rate is
high, maintenance of the smart water would also be high.

4.2 Discussion
4.2.1 Key Benefits
Accurate bills: The smart meter sends your readings automatically so you will always be
billed for what you use.
If you have a standard (non-smart) meter and forget to submit a reading, your supplier will
have to estimate how much energy you’ve used over the billing period. They estimate
based on the typical amount of energy you have used in the past or how much they think
you will use. Sometimes the supplier’s estimates are inaccurate, especially if they don’t
have a lot of information about your usage.
With a smart meter, not only will you avoid inaccurate shock bills but also you can also
avoid building a large final bill at the end of your tariff.
Highlights Faulty Appliances: The In-Home Display shows how much energy you’re
using at any given time, allowing you to notice any sudden spikes which may be associated
with a faulty appliance. By identifying these promptly, you can ensure it is dealt with
quickly and safely.
Saving the Planet: Smart meters improve your awareness of energy consumption. By
changing behavioral habits and informing decisions to buy more energy-efficient
appliances there is less pressure on the electricity grid. Smart Energy GB estimate a 24%
decrease in emissions from homes and businesses by 2030.

27
4.2.2 Cons of Smart Meters
One of the cons could be the need to ask power suppliers for the professional installation
of smart meters. In most cases, it is free and uncomplicated, though the transition may
require some learning in the beginning.
PV owners may come across some inconveniences when dealing with the older generation
of smart meters unable to properly measure power usage and excess production when it
comes to renewables.

4.2.3 Limitations of Smart Meters

In-Home Display May be Inaccurate: When you switch with a SMETS 1 meter, the In-
Home Display should continue to display energy use and enable you to retrieve readings
without needing to access the meter however their ability to communicate with the smart
meter may be inconsistent and sometimes, they stop working entirely.
Poor Signal: First-generation smart meters communicate using mobile networks. In the
same way, your mobile signal can sometimes be a bit patchy in some areas, the same
applies to smart meters. The UK’s communications regulator Ofcom, reports that 8% of
households don’t receive data from mobile networks. With the current mobile network,
these homes would not be eligible for a smart meter at all. If you have a weak mobile
signal, it can prevent the meter from sending readings to the supplier. The new dedicated
wireless smart meter network that has been set up by the DCC will provide coverage to at
least 99.25% of premises in Great Britain.
A smart meter will not reduce bills alone: Whilst having a smart meter is showing a
reduction in bills, it can’t reduce your usage by itself. The theory is that by being aware of
your usage and spend, you are more inclined to reduce your usage. The reality may be
different from home to home, especially if you don’t pay attention to your smart meter
[32].
Sensor Performance: The flow sensor used is one of the most important components of
the project. It is a very important component because the performance of the smart water
meter is dependent on the accuracy of the flow sensor. The YF-S201 uses the ‘Hall effect’
sensor type, it has an operating voltage of 5V at 15mA. By counting the pulses from the
output of the sensor, you can easily calculate water flow. Each pulse is approximately 2.25
milliliters. Note this isn’t a precision sensor, and the pulse rate does vary a bit depending
on the flow rate, fluid pressure, and sensor orientation. It will need careful calibration if
better than 10% precision is required.

28
Automated data collection using Smart Water Meter is efficient than manual meter reading.
Several users can benefit from the Smart Water Meter system in multiple ways. National Water
Supply and Drainage Board, Domestic Water Consumers, Private, State Sector Consumers, and
Meter Readers can directly benefit from this project.

How It Works: The input is a Water Meter reading data captured by using a water meter and the
output of the system would be the current cost and consumption of water by customers. The
monthly meter reading .txt file is saved on the SD card using the SD card module. Decision support
information is available for Hourly, Daily, Weekly, and Monthly consumption. Water leakage
information can be identifying after analysing individual data. Smart Water Meter has an
identification number and it will be used to identify the device uniquely. The device will be
registered and activated before getting installed on the consumer’s premises. Every user has an
authentication process before using the facilities of the system. Consumers would be able to eject
the SD card on their SWM and upload the meter readings saved as a .txt file to the WordPress
online platform provided. As stated earlier, every meter has an identification number saved in the
.txt file to be uploaded.

Bill calculation platform is also provided where personnel for the water providers receives the
meter readings and therefore use the information in the uploaded .txt file to provide the bill for a
consumer, therefore, sending it as feedback to the consumer to pay for water consumed for the
given time (daily, monthly, bi-monthly) as the case may be.

The main risk has been identified the system requires 5v power to be operated. In the event of
power failure, the system has to turn to backup power (UPS), solar power can be used as an
alternative. The Smart Water Meter system is eligible to collect customer water consumption data.
This data collection approach would be a new experience for customers and Meter Readers.
Therefore, such a set of data could be used to generate new knowledge.

29
 CHAPTER 5
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
5.1 Conclusion
The customers, Water Meter Reader, and Water Board are mainly benefited by the proposed
system. In the current system, customers are unable to retrieve information on the current month's
water consumption and cost after the last water bill (Unbilled period). The advantage of the new
system, customers will be able to get information on their usage at any time (instant). Meter readers
can collect meter reading data electronically efficiently than the earlier system. Water Board can
easily detect water leaks in customer premises when analysing individual customer data. It will
prevent losing money without getting the benefit. The system will provide information on water
consumption every fifteen minutes and it will help to analyse water usage patterns and predict the
water demand in the future.

Following features of SWMS system manage entire national pipe borne water system efficient
manner.
Capture meter reading
View water consumption
Analyse the consumption pattern and demand management of water
Estimate household water consumption
Analyse water-saving potential for the residential sector

The main risk has been identified the system require 5v power to operation. System can connect
to national electricity grid. when power failure system has to turn to backup power (UPS). The
national electricity grid has not been covered in particular areas, solar power can be used as a
substitute.

The SWMS system eligible to collect customer water consumption data. This data collection
approach would be a new experience to customers and Meter Readers. Therefore, such a set of
data could be used to generate new knowledge.

5.2 Recommendation for Future Work

Further research could include; web base payment module can be introduced to pay online when
customer view pending bill payment, automated meter reading data collection technique can be
introduced through the customer home broadband, water supply can be disconnected automatically
when laps more than three bills, prepaid water billing system can be introduced according to the
customer requirement, water leaks have been detected by the system and produce SMS alert to the
customer.

30
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your-controller/.

[30] SparkFun, "Serial Communication," 14 June 2020. [Online]. Available:

https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/serial-communication/uarts.

32
 APPENDICES
APPENDIX A – Configuration and Installing Modules
A USB-TTL adapter driver has to be installed on the PC before connecting the adapter. USB to
Serial Com port driver not installed, Arduino IDE unable to detect port as illustrated in Figure 1.

Figure 1: Device Manager

USB-TTL converter connected to the computer to upload program and comm port has to be
selected in Arduino IDE when there was more than one comm port activated as illustrated in Figure
2.

33
 Figure 2: Comm Port Selection

When connecting specific modules to the Arduino IDE, it needs to install a specific program
supplied by the device vendor as shown in Figure 3.

34
 Figure 3: Include Libraries

Install ESP8266 library to Arduino IDE showing Figure 4.

Figure 4: Install ESP8266 Library

Before uploading to Arduino IDE, change the board to “Generic ESP8266 Module” as in Figure
5.

35
 Figure 5: Generic ESP8266 Module Selection

Arduino IDE needs to install the DS3231 module library supplied by the device vendor as
illustrated in Figure 6.

Figure 6: Install DS3231

36
The date and Time of the module initialization coded as follows in Figure 7.

Figure 7: DS3231 Date and Time Module Initialization

Initializing SD Card

Figure 8: Initializing SD Card

37
APPENDIX B – Use Case Diagram

Figure 1: Use Case Diagram

38
APPENDIX C – Flow Chart

Figure 1: Water Flow Reading

39
Figure 2: SD Card Reading

40
 APPENDIX D – The Online Platform
Online Platform: The online platform created (https://www.digitalagewatersystem.com) serves
many purposes such as uploading monthly readings, downloading bills, and uploading evidence
of payment.

Figure 1: Homepage of the Online Platform

Figure 2: System prompts the user’s password

41
Figure 3: Select file for upload

Figure 4: Download current bill

42
Figure 5: Upload evidence of payment

43
 APPENDIX E – Codes

Figure 1: UART implementation code in ESP8266

Figure 2: Code for Initialized Calibration factor of the flow sensor

Figure 3: Creating UDP Server using ESP8266

Figure 4: Code for initializing the SD Card

44
Figure 5: Error message when the SD Card is not compatible

Figure 6: Data writing to SD Card

45
 APPENDIX F – Text File for Smart Water Meter Reading
Reading Time Date
0000000000 13:00:00 14.09.2020
0000131597 14:00:00 14.09.2020
0000259298 15:00:00 14.09.2020
0000259298 16:00:00 14.09.2020
0000289969 17:00:00 14.09.2020
0000314192 18:00:00 14.09.2020
0000347095 19:00:00 14.09.2020
0000372841 20:00:00 14.09.2020
0000398130 21:00:00 14.09.2020
0000488300 22:00:00 14.09.2020
0000592513 23:00:00 14.09.2020
0000000000 00:00:00 15.09.2020
0000000000 01:00:00 15.09.2020
0000000000 02:00:00 15.09.2020
0000000000 03:00:00 15.09.2020
0000000000 04:00:00 15.09.2020
0000000000 05:00:00 15.09.2020
0000007095 06:00:00 15.09.2020
0000088841 07:00:00 15.09.2020
0000098130 08:00:00 15.09.2020
0000188300 09:00:00 15.09.2020
0000200013 10:00:00 15.09.2020
0000215080 11:00:00 15.09.2020
0000257985 12:00:00 15.09.2020
0000259298 13:00:00 15.09.2020
0000298298 14:00:00 15.09.2020
0000379996 15:00:00 15.09.2020
0000390192 16:00:00 15.09.2020
0000401709 17:00:00 15.09.2020
0000410841 18:00:00 15.09.2020
0000438130 19:00:00 15.09.2020
0000488300 20:00:00 15.09.2020
0000532907 21:00:00 15.09.2020
0000569109 22:00:00 15.09.2020
0000569765 23:00:00 15.09.2020
0000570213 00:00:00 16.09.2020

46