KANO STATE POLYTECHNIC

SCHOOL OF TECHNOLOGY (SOT)

A FINAL YEAR PROJECT PROPOSAL IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT FOR THE

AWARD OF NATIONAL DIPLOMA

PROJECT TITLE: VARIABLE SPEED CONTROLLED FAN BASED ON

TEMPERATURE VARIATIONS

BY:-

S/N NAME REGISTRATION NO.

1. AMINU ABDULLAHI ABUBAKAR ND/MET/21/0035

2. ABDUL YUSUF YAHYA ND/MET/21/0038

3. BUHARI SALISU SANI ND/MET/21/0041

4. UMAR ISMAIL YAKUBU ND/MET/21/0045

5. FAISAL MUHAMMAD ND/MET/21/0052

6. ABDULLAHI IBRAHIM ABDULLAHI ND/MET/21/0043

MECHATRONICS ENGINEERING DPARTMENT

SUPERVISED BY ENGR. AUWAL S. YUNUSA

2023/2024 SESSION
 AKNOWLEDGEMENT

Glory goes to Almighty Allah, who gives us opportunity to see the end of this programme. Our

acknowledgement goes the project supervisor (for his valuable advice, critics and guidance

giving during our technical report project.

Special thanks go to our HOD and level coordinator for their contribution and support and also

wish to acknowledge all the lectures in our department.

We are also gratitude to our parent, Brothers and Sisters for their moral and financial support

towards the success of our studies, may Allah bless them all Amen.
 Abstract

“ Variable speed fan control based on temperature variations has emerged as a crucial

technique for optimizing energy consumption, noise reduction, and fan life across diverse

applications. By utilizing temperature sensors and microcontroller-based control systems, fan

speed can be dynamically adjusted to match cooling demands, leading to significant savings.

This review explores the existing research landscape, analyzing commonly employed sensor

types, control methods like PWM and adaptive algorithms, and the multifaceted benefits and

challenges associated with this technology. Through examples of existing implementations and

potential future directions, the review highlights the vast potential of variable speed fan control

to enhance efficiency and create a more comfortable environment in various domains”.

 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Title ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Acknowledgment -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Abstract-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Table of contents ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Introduction------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Statement of the problem----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Objective of the study--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Project Benefit----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Project Motivation-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Literature Review ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Methodology------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Circuit Diagram---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Block diagram ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Source Code-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Time Frame-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Budget---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Reference

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

In the grand orchestra of technology, fans hum a persistent melody, playing a vital role in

cooling systems across countless applications. From the whirring blades within your personal

computer to the industrial giants thrumming in factories, their steady flow of air ensures optimal

performance and prevents overheating. However, the traditional, one-note performance of fixed-

speed fans often sacrifices efficiency for brute force, drowning out the potential for a more

harmonious balance. This is where variable speed fan control based on temperature variations

steps in, conducting a concerto of energy savings, acoustic comfort, and extended fan life.

Imagine a world where fans adjust their tempo, not through rigid dials, but in response to the

dynamic dance of temperature. As the thermal tide rises, the fan's rhythm quickens, efficiently

dissipating the heat. But when the temperature ebbs, the fan gracefully slows, reducing its

energy consumption and noise. This is the essence of variable speed fan control – a technology

that transforms fans from rigid instruments into adaptive maestros, conducting a symphony of

efficiency and comfort.

This chapter lays the foundation for a deeper exploration of this captivating technology. We will

delve into the driving forces behind its emergence, analyzing the growing need for optimized

cooling in an increasingly energy-conscious world. We will then unpack the core principles of

variable speed control, explaining how temperature sensors, microcontrollers, and clever

algorithms weave together to create a dynamic cooling tapestry.

Furthermore, we will unveil the benefits that blossom from this technological metamorphosis.

Imagine a personal computer fan that whispers instead of roars, a data center humming with the

gentle purr of optimized airflow, or an industrial cooling system that slashes energy
consumption without compromising performance. These are just glimpses of the transformative

potential that variable speed fan control holds.

By demystifying the principles, revealing the benefits, and acknowledging the challenges, this

chapter paves the way for a deeper understanding of variable speed fan control. As we journey

through the subsequent chapters, we will immerse ourselves in the technical intricacies, explore

real-world implementations, and envision the future of this transformative technology. So, settle

in, dear reader, and prepare to be captivated by the symphony of efficiency orchestrated by

variable speed fan control.

1.2 Statement of the Problem:

Traditional fixed-speed fans present a multifaceted problem that disrupts the harmonious

orchestration of cooling systems. The current paradigm:

 Inefficiency: Running at full blast regardless of cooling demand, fixed-speed fans

consume excessive energy, increasing costs and contributing to environmental concerns.

 Excess Noise: The constant roar of full-speed fans generates unwanted noise pollution,

compromising comfort and impacting work or living environments.

 Shortened Fan Life: Continuous high-speed operation creates unnecessary wear and tear,

leading to frequent replacements and increased maintenance costs.

 Poor Temperature Control: The binary on/off nature of fixed-speed fans struggles to

maintain consistent temperature, potentially harming sensitive equipment or creating

thermal discomfort.

The crux of the problem lies in the disconnect between fan operation and actual cooling needs.

This results in a symphony of wasted energy, unwelcome noise, and unreliable temperature

control, disrupting the delicate balance of efficient cooling and environmental well-being.
Developing and implementing effective variable speed fan control based on temperature

variations offers a promising solution to these challenges. By dynamically adjusting fan speed

according to real-time temperature fluctuations, we can achieve a more harmonious orchestration

of cooling systems, aiming to:

 Optimize Energy Consumption: Reduce energy waste by matching fan speed to cooling

demand, leading to significant cost savings and environmental benefits.

 Minimize Noise Pollution: Achieve quieter operation through lower fan speeds when

cooling needs are minimal, enhancing comfort and productivity.

 Extend Fan Life: Reduce wear and tear by operating fans at appropriate speeds,

minimizing maintenance costs and prolonging their lifespan.

 Improve Temperature Control: Maintain consistent desired temperatures through precise

fan speed adjustments, ensuring optimal performance and thermal comfort.

1.3 Aims and Objectives

To develop and implement an intelligent fan control system that adjusts fan speed in response to

real-time temperature variations, optimizing energy consumption, noise levels, and cooling

performance in diverse applications.

1.4 Objectives of the Study

 Energy Efficiency: Reduce overall energy consumption of fan systems by at least X%

compared to fixed-speed control.

 Noise Reduction: Minimize fan noise generated during operation by Y% compared to

fixed-speed settings.
  Improved Temperature Control: Maintain consistent temperature within a pre-defined

range (Z°C) through precise fan speed adjustments.

 Enhanced System Performance: Extend the lifespan of fan motors and associated

equipment by reducing wear and tear from high-speed operation.

 Cost-Effectiveness: Develop a system that is affordable to implement and maintain,

balancing technology advancements with cost considerations.

1.5 Project Motivation:

The ubiquitous whirring of fans resonates across our daily lives, from personal computers to

industrial giants. While crucial for cooling, their traditional one-note performance, dictated by

rigid dials, ignores the dynamic dance of temperature. This dissonance not only disrupts the

harmony of efficiency but also generates wasted energy, unwanted noise, and unreliable

temperature control.

1.5.1 Our motivation stems from a multi-faceted desire:

 Embrace sustainability:** By optimizing energy consumption through variable speed

control, we can reduce our environmental footprint and combat climate change. This

aligns with the global shift towards energy-conscious practices, making our project not

just technically innovative but ethically responsible.

 Enhance comfort and productivity:** The constant roar of fixed-speed fans can be

disruptive and unpleasant. By minimizing noise through lower fan speeds when cooling

needs are minimal, we can create a more comfortable and productive environment for

work and leisure.

 Extend equipment life:** Continuous high-speed operation wears down fans and related

equipment, leading to frequent replacements and increased maintenance costs. Our

 project aims to prolong fan life by operating them at appropriate speeds, saving costs

and reducing waste.

 Push the boundaries of technology:** Developing and implementing an intelligent fan

control system presents an exciting technical challenge. We can leverage advancements

in microcontrollers, sensor technology, and control algorithms to design a system that is

not only effective but also adaptable to diverse applications.

1.6 Project Benefits:

The symphony of efficiency conducted by variable speed fan control promises a chorus of

benefits across various domains:

 Significant energy savings: Studies indicate that variable speed control can reduce

energy consumption by up to 50% compared to fixed-speed fans. This translates to cost

savings for individuals and businesses while contributing to a more sustainable future.

 Reduced noise pollution: Lower fan speeds create a quieter environment, enhancing

comfort and productivity in homes, offices, and industrial settings. This benefit is

particularly valuable for noise-sensitive environments like libraries and healthcare

facilities.

 Improved temperature control: Precise fan speed adjustments based on real-time

temperature fluctuations ensure consistent thermal conditions, protecting sensitive

equipment and creating a more pleasant environment.

 Extended equipment lifespan: Operating fans at appropriate speeds reduces wear and

tear, leading to longer lifespans and lower maintenance costs. This benefit applies to

fans in personal computers, data centers, and industrial cooling systems.

 CHAPTER TWO

LITERARURE REVIEW

2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW

Controlling fan speed based on temperature variations is a widely explored technique in various

applications, ranging from personal computing to industrial cooling systems. This review aims

to explore the existing research on this topic, analyzing different approaches, control methods,

and potential benefits and challenges.

 Sensor types and signal processing:

 Temperature sensors: The most common sensors include thermistors, thermocouples,

and resistance temperature detectors (RTDs). Each has its own advantages and

limitations, such as cost, accuracy, and operating range. Signal conditioning circuits may

be required to amplify or convert the sensor's output before feeding it to the controller.

 Microcontrollers: Arduino and Raspberry Pi are popular choices for their ease of use and

programming flexibility. Other options include dedicated microcontrollers or field-

programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) for more complex control algorithms.

 Control methods: Pulse Width Modulation (PWM):** PWM is the most common

technique for controlling DC fan speed. By varying the on-off ratio of the voltage

supplied to the fan, the average voltage and, consequently, the fan speed are adjusted.

 Analog control: Direct voltage or current control methods can be used, but they often

require additional circuitry and may be less efficient than PWM.

 Fuzzy logic and adaptive control: These techniques can be employed to implement more

sophisticated control algorithms that adapt to different operating conditions and

temperature variations.
BENEFITS AND CHALLENGES:

 Energy savings:** Reducing fan speed when cooling is not as crucial can significantly

lower energy consumption.

 Noise reduction: Slower fan speeds generate less noise, creating a more comfortable

environment.

 Extended fan life: Operating at lower speeds can reduce wear and tear on the fan motor,

leading to longer life.

 Challenges: Implementing control systems can be complex and require technical

expertise. Cost can also be a factor, depending on the chosen components and desired

functionality. Additionally, ensuring compatibility with different fan types and motors is

crucial.
 CHAPTER THREE

METHODOLOGY

In the previous chapters, we explored the motivations and benefits of variable speed fan control

based on temperature variations. Now, it's time to delve into the heart of the matter: the

methodology that will transform this vision into a tangible reality. This chapter will detail the

steps involved in orchestrating an efficient and effective fan control system, conducting a

symphony of energy savings, noise reduction, and precise temperature control.

1. System Design and Architecture:

1.1. Hardware Selection:

 Temperature Sensor: Choose an accurate and reliable sensor based on application

requirements. Consider options like thermistors, thermocouples, and RTDs, accounting

for factors like cost, operating range, and response time.

 Microcontroller: Select a platform that balances processing power, ease of use, and

compatibility with chosen sensor and fan control mechanism. Arduino, Raspberry Pi,

and dedicated microcontrollers are popular choices, each with its own strengths and

limitations.

 Fan and Control Mechanism: Determine the fan type (DC or AC) and choose an

appropriate control method. For DC fans, Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) using the

microcontroller is a prevalent approach. For AC fans, investigate Variable Frequency

Drives (VFDs) or alternative control solutions.

1.2. Circuit Design:

 Develop a detailed schematic diagram outlining the connections between the chosen

components. This includes sensor integration, power supply management,

microcontroller connections, and fan control circuitry.

 Ensure proper component placement and consider factors like EMI shielding and signal

conditioning (if necessary).

1.3. Software Development:

 Define the communication protocols between the microcontroller and other components

(e.g., sensor, fan control).

 Implement control algorithms within the chosen programming environment. Common

approaches include:

 Threshold-based control: Adjust fan speed based on predefined temperature thresholds.

 PID control: Implement a Proportional-Integral-Derivative algorithm for more precise

and responsive control.

 Adaptive control: Develop algorithms that learn and adapt to dynamic temperature

changes and user preferences.

 Consider incorporating data logging functionality to record temperature readings, fan

speeds, and other relevant parameters for analysis and optimization.

2. System Implementation and Testing:

2.1. Prototype Assembly:

 Construct the system based on the design schematics, using a breadboard or printed

circuit board (PCB) depending on complexity and desired final form factor.
2.2. Calibration and Fine-tuning:

 Calibrate the temperature sensor against a reference standard for accurate readings.

 Test and refine the control algorithms under various temperature conditions to ensure

smooth fan transitions and desired performance.

 Gather data on fan speeds, temperature variations, and energy consumption throughout

the testing process.

3. Optimization and Advanced Features:

3.1. Data Analysis and Performance Evaluation:

 Analyze collected data to identify areas for improvement and optimize control

algorithms.

 Consider factors like minimizing energy consumption, maintaining targeted temperature

ranges, and minimizing noise generation.

3.2. User Interface and Control:

 Develop a user interface (optional) for displaying temperature readings, fan speeds, and

control options. This could be a simple LED display, a smartphone app, or integration

with existing building management systems.

 Allow users to set desired temperature preferences, adjust control parameters, and

monitor system performance.

3.3. Advanced Control Techniques:

 Explore incorporating machine learning algorithms that can learn from operational data

and optimize control strategies dynamically.

 CIRCUIT DIAGRAM

Connections of this temperature controlled fan circuit is very simple, here a liquid crystal display

is used for displaying temperature and fan speed status. LCD is directly connected to Arduino in

4-bit mode. Pins of LCD namely RS, EN, D4, D5, D6 and D7 are connected to Arduino digital

pin number 7, 6, 5, 4, 3 and 2. And a LM35 temperature sensor is also connected to analogue pin

A0 of Arduino. Digital pin 9 is used for controlling fan speed through the MOSFET transistor.

The complete circuit for the project is shown in the following figure. With this circuit, we will be

able to change the fan speed in our home or any place according to the room temperature and

also display the temperature and fan speed changes on a 16x2 LCD display.

BLOCK DIAGRAM

Temperature MICRO PWM

Sensor CONTROLLER

POWER SOURCE

DC FAN

SOURCE POWER
PROJECT IMAGE
SOURCE CODE
/* Source Code for Variable Speed Controlled Fan Based on
* Temperature Variations for ND final Project
* Kano State Polytechnic, School of Technology
* Department of Mechatronic Engineering
* Created on 20th-November, 2023 at Mechatronics Laboratory
* By Muhammad Auwal Shehu
* Under the supervision of Engr Auwal Salisu Yunusa
*/

#include<LiquidCrystal.h>
#include <LM35.h>

#define Sensor A0
#define FAN 9
#define Cont 11
#define Buzzer 12

LM35 tempSensor(Sensor);
LiquidCrystal lcd(7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2); //(rs en D4 D5 D6 D7)

void setup() {
pinMode(Cont,OUTPUT);
pinMode(Buzzer,OUTPUT);

analogWrite(Cont,25);
lcd.begin(16, 2);
lcd.clear();
lcd.print(" SMART FAN ");
lcd.setCursor(0,1);
lcd.print(" INITIALIZING ");

//Beep the buzzer twice

digitalWrite(Buzzer,HIGH);
delay(200);
digitalWrite(Buzzer,LOW);
delay(200);
digitalWrite(Buzzer,HIGH);
delay(200);
digitalWrite(Buzzer,LOW);

//Serial.begin(9600);
delay(1000);

for (int j=0; j<=15; j++){

lcd.scrollDisplayLeft();
delay(150);
}

analogWrite(FAN, 0);
}

void loop() {
int temp = tempSensor.getTemp();
lcd.clear();
lcd.setCursor(0,0);
lcd.print("TEMP: ");
lcd.print(temp);
lcd.print((char)223);
lcd.print("C");
 lcd.setCursor(0,1);
//Serial.println(temp);

if(temp < 27) {

analogWrite(FAN,0);
lcd.print("FAN OFF ");
delay(100); }

else if(temp >= 27 && temp < 29)

{
analogWrite(FAN, 70);
lcd.print("FAN SPEED: 25% ");
delay(100);}

else if(temp >= 29 && temp < 31)

{
analogWrite(FAN, 90);
lcd.print("FAN SPEED: 35% ");
delay(100);}

else if(temp >= 31 && temp < 33)

{
analogWrite(FAN, 128);
lcd.print("FAN SPEED: 50% ");
delay(100);}

else if(temp >= 33 && temp < 35)

{
analogWrite(FAN, 166);
lcd.print("FAN SPEED: 65% ");
delay(100);}

else if(temp >= 35 && temp <37) {

analogWrite(FAN, 192);
lcd.print("FAN SPEED: 75% ");
delay(100);}

else if(temp >= 37 && temp <39) {

analogWrite(FAN, 230);
lcd.print("FAN SPEED: 90% ");
delay(100);}

else if(temp >= 39) {

analogWrite(FAN, 255);
lcd.print("FAN SPEED: 100% ");
delay(100);}

delay(1000);
}

PROJECT COMPONENT

The following are the materials required to perform a temperature-based fan speed control using
Arduino. Most of the components are easily available in local hardware shops:

1. An Arduino nano 2. One 16x2 LCD

3. One LM35 temperature sensor 4. One DC buzzer

5. One 12V DC fan 6. One 2N222A NPN transistor

 7. One IRFZ44N mosfet transistor 8. One 10BQ015-ND schottky diode

9. Two 10 kΩ resistors 10. Two 1 kΩ resistors

11. One Breadboard 12. Assorted Jumper wires

13. One SPST switch 14. Three Lithium ion batteries

15. One 3S battery management system (BMS) 16. One 12V Charging port

17. A Junction box

TIME FRAME

Project Time 3 Weeks

Project Testing 1 Week

Documentation 1 Month

BUDGET COST ANALYSIS

COMPONENT QUANTITY PRICE

An Arduino nano 1 Piece N 10,000
One 16x2 LCD 1 Piece N 4,000
One LM35 temperature sensor 1 Piece N 1,000
One DC buzzer 1 Piece N 1,000
One 12V DC fan 1 Piece N 4,000
One 2N222A NPN transistor 1 Piece N 500
One IRFZ44N mosfet transistor 1 Piece N 500
One 10BQ015-ND schottky diode 1 Piece N 3,000
Two 10 kΩ resistors 1 Piece N 400
Two 1 kΩ resistors 1 Piece N 300
One Breadboard 1 Piece N 2000
Assorted Jumper wires 1 Piece N 300
One SPST switch 1 Piece N 2,000
Three Lithium ion batteries 1 Piece N 3,000
One 3S battery management system (BMS) 1 Piece N 3,000
One 12V Charging port 1 Piece N 3,000
A Junction box 1 Piece N 2,000
Others 1 Piece N 5,000
CONCULUSION

This Variable Speed controlled fan project explores an alternative approach, steering away from
Arduino dependency, to create a practical and accessible system that contributes to both user
comfort end environmental conservation.
REFRENCE

Live, y,, zeng,j. and wang c. (2009) temperature monitoring in packaging using thin film sensor
arraly, new or lens LA,VSA.

Mehta V.K and Mehta R. (2007) principal of electronics S. Chand & company LTD new Delhi,
438

Gayakwad R.A (2004). Op amps and linear integrated circuits, pearson edition (Singerpore)
PLC.LTD, new Delhi, India.