i

BESTLINK COLLEGE OF THE PHILIPPINES, INC.

Novaliches, Quezon City

DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF TRI-FUNCTIONAL

AUTOMATIC PLANT SPRAY WITH SOIL
MOISTURE SENSOR AND GSM MODULE
BASED MONITORING SYSTEM

A Proposed Study Submitted to the Faculty of Computer Engineering Department

Bestlink College of the Philippines
Novaliches, Quezon City

In Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the degree of

Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering

by

Ralph Matthew M. Dela Cruz

John France R. Montañez
Sheldon Mitch P. Edillor
Menard Cary C. Reyes
Alfrances L. Reyes

January 2022
 ii
APPROVAL SHEET

This Thesis entitled Design and Development of Tri-Functional Automatic Plant

Spray with Soil Moisture Sensor and GSM Module Based Monitoring System
prepared by Ralph Matthew M. Dela Cruz, Sheldon Mitch P. Edillor, John France R.
Montañez, Menard Cary C. Reyes, and Alfrances L. Reyes in partial fulfillment of the
requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering has been
examined and is recommended for acceptance and approval for Oral Defense.

MARK GERALD B. MEDENILLA

Adviser

THESIS REVIEW PANEL

Approved by the Committee on Oral Examination with a grade of PASSED.

DR. IMELDA PRADIL ENGR. JESUS VICTOR LACERNA

Member Member

MR. JOHN PROS VALENCIA

Chairperson

Accepted and approved in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of
Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering.

DR. RONALDO TINIO

Dean, College of Arts, Science and Engineering

Date of Pre-Oral Defense: January 23, 2022

 iii
ABSTRACT

DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF TRI-FUNCTIONAL AUTOMATIC PLANT

SPRAY WITH SOIL MOISTURE SENSOR AND GSM MODULE BASED

MONITORING SYSTEM

Ralph Matthew M. Dela Cruz, John France R. Montañez, Sheldon Mitch P. Edillor,

Menard Cary C. Reyes, and Alfrances L. Reyes

June 10, 2022

Introduction

A plant is a living thing that grows on the earth and has a stem, leaves, and roots

(Collins, n.d.). The researchers want the plantsman and planter improve their way of

taking care of plants by innovating the current plant sprayer and applying the innovation

on it. The study will cover the plantsman and planter who assessed the plant sprayer in

terms of accuracy, presentation, and materials used. The researchers are motivating future

researchers to share their own knowledge for better improvement on this study using this

research as their guide to accomplished this study.

Methods

The method of research used is qualitative research. Qualitative research is

collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data by observing what people do and speak.

Prototyping model is an early sample, model, or release of a product built to test a

concept or process or to act as a thing to be replicated or learned from (Pedamkar, n.d.).

 iv
Results

The results indicate that the product will be functional, useful, and reliable for

planters and plantsman. The machine will perform properly in terms of functionality.

Usability has become less necessary than functionality; the plantsman will be able to use

it. The lowest of all is reliability.

Analysis

The researchers utilized observational analysis of a product's overall quality of

functionality, usability, and reliability. This provides the researchers with information

depending on the stated acceptability.

Discussion

Plant care technology this will ensure long-term viability and reduce the

negative environmental impacts of production, such as pollutants and waste. It provides

an opportunity for agriculture producers to increase productivity while better managing

natural resources. Tasks can be more accessible or more efficient. It offers substantial

help for farmers in their endeavor for optimizing inputs, simplifying farm management,

and increasing productivity. The researchers came up with the conclusion that exact

calculations and measurements of the overall system and physical appearance. Usability

can make operation, accessible and the overall satisfaction of the user. The quality of the

work is really important to users. The higher the quality of the product, the more it can be

accessible. The researchers recommended that looking for different sites to help in

improving the Automatic plant sprayer and different editions of books for more ideas.

Consultations with experts, particularly electrical and computer engineers or teachers

 v
who are experts in this field of study were involved in this study. Observation in the

surroundings for the innovation were also considered. Finding affordable materials to

avail and, at the same time, available anywhere were also taken into consideration. Give

more attention to the details of the system and design of the Automatic plant sprayer were

given much attention by the researchers.

Keywords: plantsman, planter, usability, functionality, reliability, innovation and accessible

 vi
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The researchers wish to express their sincerest gratitude to the following persons
who unselfishly gave their invaluable assistance towards the realization of this humble
piece of work.

Sr. Mark Gerald B. Medenilla – their mentor, for having been a moving power behind
the writing and completion of this paper;

Dr. Ronaldo S. Tinio, Ph. DTE.- for their department head, who provided guidance and
format for the completion of this paper;

The Respondents- for their cooperation and gives efforts and information suggestions
and recommendations to make this research project accomplished;

Our Family-for being always there whenever the researchers needed them, theirs is a life
filled with a thousand and one “silent” and almost unnoticed heroism humdrum of
everyday living. Yet, no other person has influenced their disposition towards life, as
much as they did;

Foremost, to the ALMIGHTY GOD for providing the physical and the mental strength,
inner drive and sense of direction and purpose in this endeavor and whom all good things
come.

Alfrances L. Reyes
John France R. Montañez
Menard Cary C. Reyes
Ralph Matthew M. Dela Cruz
Sheldon Mitch P. Edillor
 vii
TABLE OF CONTENTS

BESTLINK COLLEGE OF THE PHILIPPINES, INC. i

APPROVAL SHEET ii
ABSTRACT iii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT vi
TABLE OF CONTENTS vii
LIST OF TABLES viii
LIST OF FIGURES viii
Chapter 1: INTRODUCTION 1
Background of the Study 1
Theoretical/Conceptual Framework 3
Conceptual Framework 3
Statement of the Problem 4
Hypothesis 5
Significance of the Study 5
Scope and Limitations 6
Definition of Terms 6
Chapter 2: REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES 8
Related Literature 8
Related Studies 10
Synthesis and Justification 12
Chapter 3: METHODOLOGY USED 14
Research Design 14
Research Setting 14
Respondents of the Study 14
Data Gathering Procedures 15
Data Gathering Instruments 16
Statistical Treatment 16
Chapter 4: RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS 17
Project Context 17
Design Process 18
Project Cost Estimation 20
Materials Used 22
Project Testing and Evaluation 32
Performance Measurement 33
 viii
Chapter 5: CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 35
Conclusions 35
Recommendations 35
APPENDICES 37
Appendix A: Survey Questionnaire 37
Appendix B: Cost of Materials 39
Appendix C: Letter of Intent 41
REFERENCES 45

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1.1: Respondents of the Study

Table 1.2: Materials Cost Estimation

Table 1.3: Equipment Cost Estimation

Table 1.4: Miscellaneous Cost Estimation

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1.1: Research Paradigm

Figure 1.2: Project Design

Figure 1.3: Circuit Design

Figure 1.4: Develop and Concept Solution

Figure 1.5: Arduino UNO R3

Figure 1.6: Soil Moisture Sensor

Figure 1.7: SIM800A QuadBand GSM Module

Figure 1.8: LCD

Figure 1.9: 2.5 Gallons Water Container

Figure 2.0: 9V DC Water Pump

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Figure 2.1: Water Level Sensor

Figure 2.2: 5m Solid wire

Figure 2.3: 1 Channel 5V relay Module

Figure 2.4: Rain Steam Sensor for Arduino and Raspberry Pi

Figure 2.5: ½ to ¾ PVC Blue Pipe Fittings connections

Figure 2.6: Acrylic Sheet/ Plexiglass

Figure 2.7: Faucet connectors

Figure 2.8: 4/7 5m Water hose

Figure 2.9: 4/7 mm TEES

Figure 3.0: Styrene Sheets

Figure 3.1: Closable Drippers

Figure 3.2: Super Glue

Figure 3.3: 9V Battery

 1
Chapter 1

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

A plant is a living thing that grows on the earth and has a stem, leaves, and roots

(Collins, n.d.). It plays a vital role in the everyday lives on the earth, and this makes the

needs accommodated. Maintaining plants’ health is not easy for farmers or plantsmen,

they may encounter pests, the incorrect amount of watering plants and can also be costly

if machinery is being used in order to maintain the protection, and health of the plant

itself.

Taking care of plants is difficult. Plant pests and pathogens interfere with the

growth and cause damage to cultivated and naturally growing plants. The interference

and damage result in the failure of plants to reach their genetic potential (Guest, 2017).

This may lead to the plant no longer being harvestable by the plantsman. An incorrect

amount of watering can also kill a plant. A plantsman should identify the species before

watering occurs to maintain its healthy and strong posture to prevent underwatering or

overwatering. It can be costly for the plantsman and planter; he/she may have to buy tools

or machines for the maintenance of the plant’s health.

Maintaining a plant's health is important to be useful and harvestable to the

plantsman. Some tools and machines were invented to make the plantsman's life easier in

maintaining the plants health. A number of equipment manufacturers make self-propelled

sprayers, including John Deere, Hagie, Hardi, Case IH, New Holland, AGCO, and

Equipment Technologies. In 2017, John Deere introduced a 123-foot, carbon-fiber

 2
boom—its widest boom to date, New Holland, AGCO, Hardi, and Equipment

Technologies also introduced new sprayer models last year, and at the end of 2016, John

Deere and Hagie introduced the STS16 – the first product collaboration between the

companies since Deere’s acquisition of Hagie. The 2017 STS16 features a 9-liter John

Deere PowerTech PSS engine (Scott, 2018). Although these innovations were good, on

the other hand, they can be costly, huge, and can also be hard to function. Innovation

adds features or specifications to the current inventions this is exactly needed in the

study.

In this study, the innovation to the current invention is being conducted by the

present researchers that want to innovate an upgraded version of the plant sprayer. The

researchers want the plantsman and planter improve their way of taking care of plants by

innovating the current plant sprayer and applying the innovation on it.

The field of this study is significant, mainly because designing and developing an

automatic plant sprayer will enable the researcher to build a functional foundation that

will establish a better invention. In addition, it is important to understand and to consider

a lot of factors to help the researchers conduct an efficient way of designing and

developing products that are surely worth the cost. Innovating current inventions can

have a huge impact on society and on the whole world as well.

The study will cover the plantsman and planter who assessed the plant sprayer in

terms of accuracy, presentation, and materials used. The researchers are motivating future

researchers to share their own knowledge for better improvement on this study using this

research as their guide to accomplished this study.

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Theoretical/Conceptual Framework

Theoretical Framework

The study is anchored on the theoretical support of the Diffusion of Innovations

Theory by (HALTON & KELLY, 2021), describes the pattern and speed at which new

ideas, practices, or products spread through a population. The main players in the theory

are innovators, early adopters, early majority, late majority, and laggards. Also, a theory

that explains the new technology that layout and makes changes to the cultures and

societies, from old technology to new technology that is adopted in the whole world.

Conceptual Framework

Figure 1. Shows that the input of study consists of twenty-five (25)

plantsmen and twenty-five (25) planter of Quezon City, Philippines.

INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT
1. Plantsman  Assessment made  TRI-
2. Planter by the plantsman FUNCTIONAL
 Materials on the level of AUTOMATIC
 Tools acceptability in PLANT SPRAY
 Equipment’s terms of: WITH SOIL
1. Functionality MOISTURE
2. Usability SENSOR AND
3. Reliability GSM MODULE
BASED
MONITORING
SYSTEM

FEEDBACK

Figure 1.1. Research Paradigm.

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The four basic elements of conceptual frameworks are output, process, input, and

feedback. Inputs represent the basic materials or resources that will be transformed into

the output. A process represents the operations that occur to transform the inputs into the

desired outputs. Feedback is the element of control.

Statement of the Problem

This study aims to construct an Automatic plant sprayer. Specifically, it will

answer the following questions:

1. How do the plantsman and planter assess the level of acceptability of the

Automatic plant sprayer in terms of;

1.1 functionality;

1.2 usability; and

1.3 reliability?

2. Is there significant difference between the assessment of the plantsman and

planter in the level of acceptability in terms of the above cited variables?

3. What are the suggestions and recommendations of plantsman and planter to

improve the automatic plant sprayer?

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Hypothesis

This study hypothesized that there is no significant difference between the

assessment plantsman and planter in the level of acceptability in the assessment of the

automatic plant sprayer in terms of the above cited variables.

Significance of the Study

The field of this study is significant, mainly because taking good care of plants

will enable them to build knowledge on protecting plants and to learn the advantages of

taking good care of plants. In addition, it is important to understand and consider many

factors to help the researchers conduct an efficient way of taking good care of plants that

are surely worth the cost. This brings improvements towards the plantsman on protecting

plants.

Students. This study will provide the information that might help them improve their

knowledge in protecting and taking good care of plants. Knowing this will improve their

performance using the invention.

Teachers. This study will help the teachers improve their way of teaching and

conducting activities to students on the advantages of protecting plants to the ecosystem,

the teachers will also be able to find effective ways on how their students can learn easily

on this kind of study.

Plantsman. This study will help them to improve their garden healthy and be sprayed on

time. This will also enable them to add protection to their plants against pests. The

learning of plants' advantages may also benefit the whole society as well.
 6
Planter. This study will help them to improve their cultivation skills in order to improve

the plantation they had.

Future Researchers. For future researchers to be inspired to improve this study that may

contribute greatly to the study of the students. This will be a starting point for them to

discover more information concerning the subject.

Scope and Limitations

The study will focus on how regular plant sprayers may be transformed into

automated plant sprayers that can assist individuals with meeting their basic needs. The

proposed innovation will benefit society by producing healthy plants that will contribute

to a healthy plant environment.

The study will consist of twenty-five (25) plantsman and twenty-five (25) planter

who will assess the automatic plant sprayer in terms of functionality, usability, and

reliability.

The study will not cover the other plant-taking care machines that are not

considered as one of the plant sprayers available on the market. Each of the respondents

is given the same questionnaire to answer. The main source of data will be the

questionnaire, which was prepared by the researchers.

Definition of Terms

One of the first things to do in conducting a study is to define important words or

terms that is unfamiliar to the readers.

 7
Costly. commanding a high price especially because of intrinsic worth; made or

done at heavy expense or sacrifice (Merriam Webster, n.d.).

Cultivate. to prepare and use (soil) for growing plants, to grow and care for

(plants) (Merriam Webster, n.d.).

Diffusion. the state of being spread out or transmitted especially by contact: the

action of diffusing (Merriam Webster, n.d.).

GSM MODULE. (Global System for Mobile Communications, originally

Groupe Spécial Mobile), a GPRS module is a chip or circuit that will be used to establish

communication between a mobile device or a computing machine and a GSM or GPRS

system (All You Wanted to Know About GSM Module and GPRS Module, 2021).

Innovation. the act or process of introducing new ideas, devices, or methods

(Merriam Webster, n.d.).

Interfere. to enter into or take a part in the concerns of others (Merriam Webster,

n.d.).

Pathogens. is an organism that causes disease Schulman (2019).

Reliability. the extent to which an experiment, test, or measuring procedure

yields the same results on repeated trials (Merriam Webster, n.d.).

Specification. a detailed precise presentation of something or of a plan or

proposal for something —usually used in plural (Merriam Webster, n.d.).

 8
Chapter 2

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

This chapter presents the related literature and studies after the thorough and in-

depth search done by the researchers. This will also present the synthesis and justification

of the study to fully understand the research to be done.

Related Literature

Local

Virgino (2021) as cited, “taking responsibility for a plant can boost one’s self-

esteem. When one starts to take care of something and watch it grow, it makes one feel

proud of him or herself—in a good way. This then leads to a sense of self-worth,

knowing that you had contributed to the growth of something beautiful… That is, not just

the plant, but you, yourself”. This means that taking care of a healthy plant can make the

plantsman and planter healthy as well as physically and mentally.

Gomez (2021) as cited, “In the Philippines, these farming technologies and

innovations are yet to be fully realized in a broader scale although the Department of

Agriculture (DA) is implementing its "New Thinking" strategy that is built on eight

paradigms to ensure a stable food supply: modernization; industrialization; export

promotion; farm consolidation; infrastructure development; higher budget allocation and

investment; legislative support; and roadmap development”. This means that the use of

modern technology in planting will affect the planting techniques of one country more

than another.
 9
Dar (2020) as cited, “fast-tracking” the development of a digital road map for the

agriculture sector to promote and integrate precision agriculture and digital technology in

local farming practices. “We aim to integrate digital technologies in the food value chain

and logistics, benefiting both producers and consumers,”. This means that improving the

technology in planting can benefit the plantsman and planter as well as the whole society.

Foreign

Buckardt (2021) as cited, "Monitoring efforts give us a better understanding of the

occurrence, distribution, and status of plant populations in the preserves. Plants have a

vital role in the world. " This means that the basic needs of humans are being consumed.

By maintaining the plants' occurrence, this makes humans alive.

Community (2021) as cited, “Monitoring crops not only prevents the production

and spread of pests, but also guarantees that diseases and weeds that are prone to appear

are kept under control without causing major inconveniences in terms of performance and

final product results”. In this written work, monitoring plants can help plantsman and

planter be motivated to harvest plants. Taking care of plants can also help the plantsman

and planter manage the plants' health to make them harvestable.

Keyplex (2021) as cited, “Promoting a healthy soil culture in your plantings will

benefit you immensely. In maintaining the plants' health, the soil must be healthy and

free from pests that may result from the soil's unhealthiness”. According to this citation, a

pest-free soil can produce healthy plants that can possibly be harvestable by the

plantsman and planter.

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Related Studies

Local

According to Mogato (2018) that “In the past few years, both the government and

the private sector made efforts to address self-sufficiency in important food staples

through the introduction of hybrid seeds, innovative farming techniques and technology

to the agriculture sector”. This means that the government and private sectors must work

together in order to conduct and acknowledge technology that can develop healthy plants

and also develop productivity for plantsman and planter.

According Doringo (2021) that “Such technological revolution includes

innovative techniques to produce food through organic farming, increase efficiency in the

food chain, and apply nanotechnology, artificial intelligence, and data analytics, among

others”. This means that by adapting the power of technology to planting, this can

possibly produce healthy plants and, by innovation, develop planting techniques.

According to Malasig (2018) “Agriculture industry originally relies on manual

labor but certain integrations of technology into the sector has definitely leveraged its

own growth and development. In other countries, for instance, they have started to roll

out particular innovations in order to boost their agricultural systems”. This means that

developing the country’s technology in plants can make a country strong in terms of its

economy and wealth.

Foreign
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In the study conducted by Kumar Raina (2021) entitled “Importance and

Advancement in Agriculture Technology” written that “The use of crop sensors can make

it easy for farmers to effectively apply fertilizers just as much as the crops need. Variable

rate technology becomes useful in such cases. Such technology gives you the opportunity

to sense how your plants are feeling and subsequently help you reduce the probability of

leaching or surface runoff”. In this study, the focus was on the development of plant

modernization using technology in order to grow a healthy plant that can possibly be

manufactured.

The study conducted by Ku (2021) entitled “New Agriculture Technology in

Modern Farming” written that “New precision agriculture companies are developing

technologies that allow farmers to maximize yields by controlling every variable of crop

farming such as moisture levels, pest stress, soil conditions, and micro-climates. By

providing more accurate techniques for planting and growing crops, precision agriculture

enables farmers to increase efficiency and manage costs”. In this study, Through the use

of modern technology, the techniques used by plantsman and planter have improved in

taking care of plants and other harvestable plants.

According to MEDIA (2019) that “Technology plays an important role in

developing farming industry and improving agribusiness. Scientists have managed to

grow crops in deserts and other adverse conditions through genetic engineering which

introduces traits into existing genes with a goal to create crops; resistant to pests,

droughts and plant pathogens”. In this study, technology can affect the agribusiness

industry in terms of healthy plant growth.

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Synthesis and Justification

In the local literature written by Virgino (2021), taking care of plants can boost

self-esteem by taking responsibility. On the other hand, according to Gomez (2021),

planting using new techniques and technological innovation can result in a food supply

increase. This also agrees with the literature written by Dar (2020), that modern

technology can help both plantsman, planter and a whole society. The related literature,

written by the said authors, has similarities to the present study that is being conducted by

the researchers on this study in terms of new technology modernization in taking care of

plants.

The foreign literature written by Buckardt (2021), Community (2021), and

Keyplex (2021), agreed in their foreign literature that monitoring and caring for plants

can benefit plantsman and planter both mentally and physically. This has been compared

to the present study, which the researchers of this study found to have a comparison in

terms of the advantages of taking plants and their other benefits.

In the local studies cited by Mogato (2018) and Doringo (2021), developing and

adapting new technologies in agriculture can produce healthy plants that can be

harvestable by plantsman and planter. Also, the study Malasig (2018) pointed out that the

development and innovation of technology can help the whole society. The present study,

which was conducted by the researchers, also has relevance in terms of modern

technology development in planting.

The foreign studies cited by Kumar Raina (2021) emphasized the use of modern

technology in improving planting and agriculture and can be manufactured. Ku (2021)

 13
also said that applying modern technology to taking care of plants can help the plant’s

growth and be free from pests. It can also be harvestable and manufactured by the

plantsman and planter. MEDIA (2019). On the other hand, they pointed out that planting

a healthy plant can also help plantsmen and society to supply food and save for future

needs. The studies that were written by the above authors have relevance to the project

study that was conducted by the researchers in terms of using modern technology in

agriculture to help the plantsman, planter and the whole society as well.
 14
Chapter 3

METHODOLOGY USED

This chapter presents and discusses the research design, setting, respondents of

the study, data gathering procedures, instruments, and statistical treatment of data.

Research Design

The method of research used is qualitative research. Qualitative research is

collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data by observing what people do and speak.

Qualitative research refers to the meanings, concepts, definitions, characteristics,

metaphors, symbols, and descriptions of things (Singh, 2013). Prototyping model is an

early sample, model, or release of a product built to test a concept or process or to act as a

thing to be replicated or learned from (Pedamkar, n.d.).

Research Setting

The study took place in Quezon City, Philippines under the supervision of Sr.

Mark Gerald B. Medenilla, research adviser.

The researcher selected to perform the study in Quezon City, Philippines, in order

to gather information from plant care experts on their machines and procedures.

Respondents of the Study

The study utilized randomly selected twenty-five (25) respondents of plantsman

and twenty-five (25) respondents of planter of Quezon City, Philippines.

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Table 1.1: Respondents of the Study

Respondents Frequency
Plantsman 25
Planter 25
Total 50

Table 1 shows the distribution of respondents are as follows: 25 for the

respondents are Plantsman and 25 respondents for Planter.

Data Gathering Procedures

The following procedures were undertaken in the conduct of this study:

Design and develop the questionnaire.

In order to perform and validate this study, a letter of approval is permitted from

of the Research Adviser, Content Adviser, and English Editor.

The researchers spread the questionnaires among the respondents, who are

plantsmen, and printed enough copies for distribution.

The researchers explained the study's purpose to the respondents in order to

ensure that the questionnaire was filled out properly.

The data gathered were tabulated, classified, and analyzed to answer the specific

statement of the problems.

 16
Data Gathering Instruments

The researchers utilized survey instruments for data gathering. For the

quantitative probe, a self-administered survey questionnaire was employed.

The survey questionnaire includes three (3) assessments with three (3) criteria in

the first assessment and two (2) criteria in both the second and third assessments.

Statistical Treatment

The data to be gathered in this study will be subjected to the following statistical

treatment:

1. The Percentage. The frequency of each response will be determined by the

number of respondents. This was used to determine the distribution of the two (2)

groups of the respondents. According to (Mendoza, 2014), the formula for

finalizing the percentage was:

𝐹
𝑃= 𝑥100
𝑁
Where:

𝑷 = Percentage

𝑭 = Frequency

𝑵 = Total Number of the

Respondents
100 = constant
 17
Chapter 4

RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

This section discussed how the research project implemented the final outcome

base on the assumption of the researcher in the introductory section of this research.

Project Context

The design and development of Tri-Functional Automatic Plant Spray with Soil

Moisture Sensor and GSM Module Based Monitoring System is as follows:

To figure out the project as well as its physical appearance, the researchers first

built a conceptual design, then worked with its monitoring systems to build a functional

model. Second, create a list of all the materials and components required for the project

design and purchase them all. Assemble the purchased items to construct the Tri-

Functional Automatic Plant Spray with Soil Moisture Sensor and GSM Module Based

Monitoring System's physical appearance. Then, in the monitoring program's software

architecture, programming Arduino according to the layout and made in the first phase of

the system design process. Afterwards, all of the essential components are combined and

assembled to finish the project. Finally, when all of the components had been assembled,

the researchers conducted the testing.

 18
Design Process

Back view Front view Right-side view Left-side view

FIGURE 1.2 PROJECT DESIGN

 19

FIGURE 1.3 CIRCUIT DESIGN

 20
Process Flow

FIGURE 1.4 DEVELOP AND CONCEPT SOLUTION

Project Cost Estimation

The estimation was based on the individual cost of each component used in the

development with the consideration to the quality, compatibility, and uses to minimize

the cost in developing the system.

Table 1.2 Materials Cost Estimation

MATERIALS COST ESTIMATION PHP 4,472.00

NAME AND
ITEM SPECIFICATION QUANTITY COST AMOUNT
OF MATERIAL
ARDUINO UNO
1 2 PHP 400.00 PHP 800.00
R3
 21
SOIL MOISTURE
2 1 PHP 45.00 PHP 45.00
SENSOR
SIM800A Quad
3 Band GSM 1 PHP 355.00 PHP 355.00
Module
4 LCD 1 PHP 100.00 PHP 100.00
2.5 GALLONS
5 WATER 3 PHP 120.00 PHP 360.00
CONTAINER
9V DC WATER
6 1 PHP 284.00 PHP 284.00
PUMP
WATER LEVEL
7 3 PHP 195.00 PHP 585.00
SENSOR
8 5m SOLID WIRE 2 PHP 60.00 PHP 120.00
1 CHANNEL 5V
9 3 PHP 60.00 PHP 180.00
RELAY MODULE
Rain Steam
Sensor for
10 1 PHP 83.00 PHP 83.00
Arduino and Rb
Pi
1/2-3/4 PVC
Blue pipe
11 4 PHP 160.00 PHP 640.00
Fitting’s
connections
Acrylic
12 4 PHP 110.00 PHP 440.00
Sheet/Plexiglass
13 Styrene sheets 3 PHP 110.00 PHP 330.00
14 Super Glue 5 PHP 30.00 PHP 150.00

Table 1.2 shows the materials cost estimation that has a total of Php 4,472.00.

Table 1.3 Equipment Cost Estimation

PHP
EQUIPMENT COST ESTIMATION
1,970.00
NAME AND
ITEM SPECIFICATION QUANTITY COST AMOUNT
OF MATERIAL
1 FAUCET 2 PHP 70.00 PHP
 22
CONNECTORS 140.00
2 4/7 5M WATER 1 PHP 300.00 PHP
HOSE 300.00
3 4/7 mm TEES 10 PHP 79.00 PHP
790.00
5 CLOSABLE 10 PHP 65.00 PHP
DRIPPERS 650.00
6 9V BATTERY 3 PHP 30.00 PHP
90.00

The table 1.3 shows the Equipment Cost Estimation that has a total of Php

1,970.00.

Table 1.4 Miscellaneous Cost Estimation

MISCELLANEOUS COST ESTIMATION PHP 2,860.00

NAME AND
ITEM SPECIFICATION QUANTITY COST AMOUNT
OF MATERIAL
TRANSPORTATION
1 PHP 1,500.00 PHP 1,500.00
FEE
FOOD
2 PHP 1,000.00 PHP 1,000.00
ALLOWANCE
3 Short BONDPAPER 2 PHP 180.00 PHP 360.00
TOTAL PHP 9,302.00

The table 1.4 shows the total miscellaneous cost estimation for the project which

is Php 2,860.00 and has an overall total of Php 9,302.00.

Materials Used

The materials and equipment’s used in this project are as follows:

Arduino UNO R3
 23

Figure 1.5: Arduino UNO R3

A microcontroller board based on a removable, dual-inline-package (DIP)

ATmega328 AVR microcontroller. It has 20 digital input/output pins (of which 6

can be used as PWM outputs and 6 can be used as analog inputs). Programs can

be loaded on to it from the easy-to-use Arduino computer program.

Soil Moisture Sensor

Figure 1.6: Soil Moisture Sensor

This Soil Moisture Sensor can be used to detect the moisture of soil or

judge if there is water around the sensor, let the plants in your garden reach out

for human help. Insert this module into the soil and then adjust the on-board

potentiometer to adjust the sensitivity.

 24
SIM800A Quad Band GSM Module

Figure 1.7: SIM800A Quad Band GSM Module

A complete Quad-band GSM/GPRS solution in an LGA (Land grid array)

type which can be embedded in the customer applications.

LCD

Figure 1.8: LCD

LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) is a type of flat panel display which uses

liquid crystals in its primary form of operation.

2.5 Gallons Water Container

 25

Figure 1.9: 2.5 Gallons Water Container

Small spout makes it easier to fill water bottles; breather hole with its own

cap provides great airflow for easy pouring.

9V DC Water Pump

Figure 2.0: 9V DC Water Pump

Use direct current from motor, battery, or solar power to move fluid in a

variety of ways. Can be hooked to a battery; portable, Simpler speed control and

operation, and More energy efficient.

Water Level Sensor

 26

Figure 2.1: Water Level Sensor

A device that measures the liquid level in a fixed container that is too high

or too low. water level sensor is that when it is put into a certain depth in the

liquid to be measured, the pressure on the sensor’s front surface is converted into

the liquid level height.

5m Solid wire

Figure 2.2: 5m Solid wire

Is a much heavier, thicker product than stranded wire. It is ideal for

outdoor use where more durability and higher currents are required.

1 Channel 5V Relay Module

 27

Figure 2.3: 1 Channel 5V Relay Module

Provides a single relay that can be controlled by any 5V digital output

from your microcontroller. The relay is accessible using screw terminals and can

handle up to 2A of current. A handy LED indicates the status of the relay.

Rain Steam Sensor for Arduino and Raspberry Pi

Figure 2.4: Rain Steam Sensor for Arduino

and Raspberry Pi

Is used for rain detection. It is also for measuring rainfall intensity. The

module includes a rain board and a control board that are separate for more

convenience.

½ to ¾ PVC Pipe Fittings connections

 28

Figure 2.5: ½ to ¾ PVC Pipe Fittings connections

These fittings are designed to change the end type of a pipe, allowing it to

connect to fittings and pipes of many sizes. They can have threaded or slip socket

ends to connect to an endless variety of pipes and fittings. Adapters can be either

male- or female-threaded, as well as socket or spigot.

Acrylic Sheet/ Plexiglass

Figure 2.6: Acrylic Sheet/ Plexiglass

Sheet exhibits glass-like qualities clarity, brilliance, and transparency but

at half the weight and many times the impact resistance of glass. From durable
 29
signs and skylights, to eye-catching retail store fixtures, displays and shelves,

acrylic plastics provide outstanding versatility, durability, and aesthetic qualities.

Faucet connectors

Figure 2.7: Faucet connectors

Can set easily connects garden hose to outdoor faucet. Includes one female

threaded faucet adapter and one male hose connector. Connector and adapter snap

together using spring compression. Interchangeable with many quick connector

systems. This can also be used between your hose end water timer and drip

system head assembly components for easy disconnect when needed.

4/7 5m Water hose

Figure 2.8: 4/7 5m Water hose

Is a long, round, hollow object, usually made of metal or plastic, through

which a liquid or gas can flow.

 30
4/7 mm TEES

Figure 2.9: 4/7 mm TEES

Tee connectors Perfect for the irrigation of your flower, plants, lawn,

agriculture, villas, industrial irrigation.

Styrene sheets

Figure 3.0: Styrene sheets

(HIPS Sheet) is a low cost, odorless, and non-toxic plastic sheet is used for

indoor signs and lithographs, prototypes, packaging, and toys. It is the appropriate

material where costs need to be kept low. High Impact Polystyrene sheets are

made of material engineered from polystyrene resins.

Closable Drippers
 31

Figure 3.1: Closable Drippers

Allow the option of changing the flow rate of water to each individual

plant. It is as simple as twisting the cap on the dripper toward the “+” or the “-”

signs to increase or decrease the flow rate.

Super Glue

Figure 3.2: Super Glue

A glue whose chief ingredient is a cyanoacrylate that becomes adhesive

through polymerization rather than evaporation of a solvent.

9V Battery
 32

Figure 3.3: 9V Battery

A miniature battery for electronics. It has 6 internal primary cells of

usually alkaline or carbon-zinc chemistry totaling 9V in series. A rectangular in

size with two small snap buttons for the terminals on the small end.

Project Testing and Evaluation

Soil Moisture sensor

According to the test of the Tri-Functional Automatic Plant Spray with Soil

Moisture Sensor and GSM Module Based Monitoring System, researchers observed that

the soil moisture sensor needs to be tested on how it will respond immediately to the

plants.

Monitoring System

Based on the test result of the monitoring system, in soil moisture level sensor, it

will indicate the low, medium, high, full and empty on the LCD screen based on the

situation of the water tank. While the GSM Module, will indicates warning via text

message when it reaches the right amount of plant care maintenance.

 33

Performance Measurement

Soil Moisture Sensor Performance

First attempt

In the first test of this Tri-Functional Automatic Plant Spray with Soil Moisture

Sensor and GSM Module Based Monitoring System, the researchers conducted the first

round of testing, which included soil moisture measurement or the computation of;
𝐹𝑊−𝐷𝑊
%𝑀𝐶 = 𝑥100%
𝐷𝑊

Where: FW = moist soil

DW = dry soil

constant = 100%

130𝑔−100𝑔
= 100𝑔 𝑥100%
130𝑔−100𝑔
= 𝑥100% = 30𝑔 𝑥100% = 30% of water
100𝑔 100𝑔

In this computation, researchers concluded that 30% of water with a moist soil of

130 g is not enough to a water a plant immediately.

Second attempt

The researchers attempted to add soil moisture to 140 g of moist soil and 110 g of

dry soil in the second experiment to test if the sensor would respond immediately.

%𝑀𝐶 𝐹𝑊 −
𝐷𝑊 𝑥100%
=
𝐷𝑊

140𝑔−110𝑔
= 110𝑔 𝑥100%
 140𝑔−110𝑔 34
= 𝑥100% = 30𝑔 𝑥100% = 27% of water
110𝑔 110𝑔

According to this calculation, 27 percent of water combined with 140 g of moist

soil is insufficient to water a plant instantly when it is dry.

Third attempt

The researchers added soil moisture to 150 g of moist soil and 120 g of dry soil on

their third attempt to check if the moisture sensor would respond immediately.

%𝑀𝐶 𝐹𝑊 −
𝐷𝑊 𝑥100%
=
𝐷𝑊

150𝑔−120𝑔
= 120𝑔 𝑥100%
150𝑔−120𝑔
= 𝑥100% = 30𝑔 𝑥100% = 25% of water
120𝑔 110𝑔

According to this calculation, 25 percent water and 150 g moist soil is enough to

irrigate a dry plant instantaneously.

 35
Chapter 5

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Conclusions

1. The exact calculations and measurements of the overall system and physical

appearance of the automatic plant sprayer allow the device to run or function,

however when the calculations are erratic the system is affected entirely.

2. When usability becomes possible, which contributes to the operation and

accessibility of the overall working of the device, satisfaction of the user will take

place, and this can improve the quality and user’s experience of the product.

3. The quality of the work is really important to users. The higher the quality of the

product, the more it can be accessible.

Recommendations

Based on the project design, the following statements are recommended;

1. For more ideas, different sites should be explored to help with the improvements

to the Automatic plant sprayer, which are found in different editions of books for

more ideas.

2. Researchers showed consult experts, particularly electrical and computer

engineers or professors who are experts in this field of study to ensure the success

of the study.

3. Researchers indicated being observant of the surroundings in order to create a

unique plant sprayer design.

 36
4. Research indicates materials that are both affordable and readily available

anywhere.

5. Research indicates give more attention to the details of the system and design of

the Automatic plant sprayer.

 37
APPENDICES

Appendix A: Survey Questionnaire

Name (optional):

Select one;
Plantsman Planter

Questionnaire on DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF TRI-FUNCTIONAL

AUTOMATIC PLANT SPRAY WITH SOIL MOISTURE SENSOR AND GSM
MODULE BASED MONITORING SYSTEM.
Direction: Please check (√) and rate how good is automatic plant sprayer for taking care
of plants using the following scales:
Rating Verbal Interpretation
5 Outstanding
4 Very Satisfactory
3 Satisfactory
2 Fair
1 Needs improvement
How do the plantsman and planter assess the level of acceptability of the Automatic plant
sprayer in terms of;
1.1 Functionality
Criteria 5 4 3 2 1
1. Completeness. all materials
used.
2. Correctness. all measurements
followed correctly.
3. Appropriateness. physical
appearance.

1.2 Usability
Criteria 5 4 3 2 1
1. Operability. easy to operate
and control.
 38
2. Accessibility. easy to use.

1.3 Reliability
Criteria 5 4 3 2 1
1. Maturity. easy to understand.
2. Availability. always available
to users whenever they need it.

What are the suggestions and recommendations of plantsman and planter to improve the
automatic plant sprayer?
As to the:

Functionality
.

Usability
.

Reliability
.
 39
Appendix B: Cost of Materials

PROJECT COST ESTIMATION

DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF TRI-FUNCTIONAL
PROJECT AUTOMATIC PLANT SPRAY WITH SOIL MOISTURE SENSOR
AND GSM MODULE BASED MONITORING SYSTEM
PROJECT DURATION N/A
PHP
MATERIALS
4,472.00
NAME AND SPECIFICATION
ITEM QUANTITY COST AMOUNT
OF MATERIAL
PHP PHP
1 ARDUINO UNO R3 2 400.00 800.00
PHP PHP
2 SOIL MOISTURE SENSOR 1 45.00 45.00
SIM800A Quad Band GSM PHP PHP
3 1
Module 355.00 355.00
PHP PHP
4 LCD 1 100.00 100.00
2.5 GALLONS WATER PHP PHP
5 3
CONTAINER 120.00 360.00
PHP PHP
6 9V DC WATER PUMP 1
284.00 284.00
PHP PHP
7 WATER LEVEL SENSOR 3
195.00 585.00
PHP PHP
8 5m SOLID WIRE 2 60.00 120.00
1 CHANNEL 5V RELAY PHP PHP
9 3
MODULE 60.00 180.00
Rain Steam Sensor for Arduino PHP PHP
10 1
and Rb Pi 83.00 83.00
1/2-3/4 PVC Blue pipe Fitting’s PHP PHP
11 4
connections 160.00 640.00
PHP PHP
12 Acrylic Sheet/Plexiglass 4
110.00 440.00
PHP PHP
13 Styrene sheets 3
110.00 330.00
PHP PHP
14 Super Glue 5
30.00 150.00
 40
PHP
EQUIPMENT COST ESTIMATION
1,970.00
NAME AND SPECIFICATION
ITEM OF MATERIAL
QUANTITY COST AMOUNT
PHP PHP
1 FAUCET CONNECTORS 2
70.00 140.00
PHP PHP
2 4/7 5M WATER HOSE 1
300.00 300.00
PHP PHP
3 4/7 mm TEES 10
79.00 790.00
PHP PHP
5 CLOSABLE DRIPPERS 10
65.00 650.00
PHP PHP
6 9V BATTERY 3 30.00 90.00

PHP
MISCELLANEOUS COST ESTIMATION
2,860.00
NAME AND SPECIFICATION
ITEM QUANTITY COST AMOUNT
OF MATERIAL
PHP PHP
1 TRANSPORTATION FEE - 1,500.00 1,500.00
PHP PHP
2 FOOD ALLOWANCE -
1,000.00 1,000.00
PHP PHP
3 Short BONDPAPER 2
180.00 360.00
PHP
TOTAL
9,302.00
 41
Appendix C: Letter of Intent
42
43
44
 45
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