Final Paper 1

Republic of the Philippines
Department of the Education

Marinduque National High School
Isok I, Boac, Marinduque
MONITORING AND INDICATING FLOOD LEVEL THROUGH WARNING SYSTEM

WITH SHORT MESSAGE SERVICE (SMS) ALERTS
A Mixed Method Research
Presented to MRS. RIENA I. RODRIGUEZ
Senior High School Department
Isok 1, Boac Marinduque
In partial fulfillment of the requirements in
Capstone Research Project subject
by
Henri Louis D. Del Prado
Lyresh Ann L. Navilgas
Sairah Jeana J. Jalimbawa
Reika M. Sugawara
Edward John S. Luz
Lindsay Mariae O. Luarca
Angela Beatrize A. Fellizar
Vanessa M. Espino
Grade 12- STEM Eiffel

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Preliminaries Page No.
Title Page …………………………………………………………………………… i
Table of Contents ………………………………………………………………… ii
List of Tables …………………………………………………………………….. vi
List of Figures ……………………………………………………………………. vi
Chapter I ………………………………………………………………………… 1
THE PROBLEM AND ITS SETTING ……………………………………. 1
Introduction ………………………………………………………… 1
Background of the Study …………………………………………… 3
Conceptual Framework …………………………………………... 7
Statement of the Problem ………………………………………… 8
Research Hypothesis ……………………………………………….. 9
Scientific Hypothesis ………………………………………………. 9
Significance of the Study ………………………………………….. 10
Scope and Delimitations of the Study ……………………………… 11
Chapter 2 ………………………………………………………………………….. 14
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES ……………….. 14
ii
Monitoring and Indicating Flood Level ……………………………. 14
Warning System …………………………………………………… 17
Short Message Service (SMS) Alert System ………………………. 19
Definition of Terms ………………………………………………… 24
Synthesis ……………………………………………………………. 25
Chapter 3 …………………………………………………………………………... 26
METHODS OF RESEARCH AND PROCEDURE ………………………. 26
Research Design …………………………………………………… 26
Research Locale …………………………………………………… 26
Research Instruments and Procedures ……………………………... 29
Hardware Construction of the Flood Monitoring and

29
Warning System ………………………………………….....
Overall Design of the Project ………………………………. 30
Electronics Assembly and Circuit Design ………………… 31
Programming of Flood Monitoring and Warning System …………. 33
Individual Programming of HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Sensor ….. 34
Programming Light Crystal Display (LCD), LED Lights, of

35
Ultrasonic Sensor …………………………………………
Programming Ultrasonic Sensor and SIM900 GSM/GPRS 36
iii
Module ……………………………………………………...
Combining Sketches of Separated Coding ………………… 37
Operational Flowchart of the System ………………………………. 38
Block Diagram of the Project ………………………………………. 40
Functionality and Performance Test ……………………………….. 42
Data Gathering Procedure …………………………………………. 43
For Ultrasonic Sensor …………………................................ 43
For SMS ……………………………………………………. 44
Data Analysis Procedure …………………………………………… 45
Chapter 4 …………………………………………………………………………... 46
PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION OF DATA .. 46
Accuracy of Ultrasonic Sensor …………………………………….. 46
Ultrasonic Sensor against Manual Reading ……………………… 49
Short Message Service (SMS) Speed ………………………………. 50
Chapter 5 …………………………………………………………………………... 53
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND

53
RECOMMENDATIONS ………………………………………………...
Summary of Findings …………………………………………….. 53
iv
Conclusion ………………………………………………………….. 55
Recommendations ………………………………………………….. 56
v
LIST OF TABLES
No. Title Page
Percent (%) Error on Distance between Maximum Water Level and

1 46
Ultrasonic Sensor
2 Percent (%) Error on Distance of Ultrasonic Sensor from Wall 47
3 ANOVA test between Ultrasonic Sensor and Manual Reading 49
4 Speed of SMS 51
LIST OF FIGURES
No. Title Page
1 Research Paradigm 7
2 Scientific Hypothesis 9
3 Bangbangalon 27
4 Tabigue 28
5 Ogbac 28
6 Hardware Construction of Flood Monitoring and Warning System 29
7 Overall Design of the System 30
8 Arduino to Components 31
Arduino Board and HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Sensor Electronic Assembly and

8.1 31
Circuit Design
Arduino Board and SIM900 GSM/GPRS Electronic Assembly and Circuit

8.2 32
Design
vi
Arduino Board, LCD, and LED Lights Electronic Assembly and Circuit
8.3 33
Design
9 Coding for Ultrasonic Sensor 34
10 Codes for LCD, LED Lights, and Ultrasonic Sensor 35
11.1 Programming GSM/GPRS Module and Ultrasonic Sensor 36
11.2 Incorporation of millis() function in Program 37
12 Combination of Sketches in Arduino IDE 37
13 Operational Flowchart of the Device 39
14 Experiment Conduction 40
15 Materials 42
16 Testing of the Device 42
16.1 Experimentation 42
16.2 Level Application 42
17 Experiment Conduction 43
17.1 Pouring of Water 43
17.2 Manual Measurement 43
17.3 Sensor’s Placement Adjustment 43
17.4 Sensor’s Reading 43
vii
CHAPTER I
THE PROBLEM AND ITS SETTING
This chapter presents the Introduction that covers the problem and its setting. It includes
the Background of the Study, Conceptual Framework, Statement of the Problem, Research
Hypotheses, Scientific Research Hypothesis, Significance of the Study, and the Scope and
Delimitation of this study.
Introduction
Flooding, for some considerable amount of time, has been an alarming natural calamity,
wreaking havoc on properties and infrastructures, while also risking human lives. Since the
Philippines is in the location of a region that is prone to tropical storms and typhoons, it causes
severe rains that leads to widespread inundation. This was evident when the Philippines
experienced heavy rains that began on December 25, 2022, and continued through New Year’s
Day. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council stated that at least 28
people have passed away within the mentioned time span. As a result of the fatal floods,
damaging homes, infrastructure, crops, and fishing boats, more than 211,000 people have been
forced to flee their homes, leaving 1.3 million people affected (Westfall, 2023). Furthermore, the
Philippines is being ranked as one of the most vulnerable nations to the impact of climate
change, hence, a more powerful storm may strike, in which may result in incessant rain that
exacerbate the frequency and intensity of flooding. Therefore, the need for an effective solution
to respond to the dangers posed by flood is necessary. In this concern, the researchers aim to
develop a warning system device that can accurately monitor and indicate flood levels, as well as
disseminate alerts via Short Message Service (SMS) notification to the residents, emergency
services, and relevant authorities. This solution has a great deal of potential to improve
community preparedness and resilience in the event of disastrous floods.
The achievement of developing a warning system device with SMS will require
assimilation of advanced technologies, such as ultrasonic sensor as the water detector, Arduino
UNO R3 as microcontroller, and Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) module as
the communication system, to establish a coherent and reliable flood level warning system. This
is similar to the study conducted by Natividad and Mendez (2018) whereupon they utilized the
same mentioned materials to create the device. Moreover, as for the experimentation, they have
tested the developed prototype in a basin to test the accuracy of the detected water level, as well
as the disseminated information through SMS. This is crucial as the system will not only provide
accurate and relevant information on flood levels, but also trigger an SMS alert system designed
to immediately notify relevant stakeholders, including the residents, emergency responder, and
local authorities. By delivering critical information directly to those at risk, this device aims to
improve the preparedness and response time in the face of impending floods.
Throughout the duration of this project, the researchers will delve into the feasibility of
the technical aspects of the proposed system. Examining the challenges and opportunities
associated with implementing such a system, the study will contribute valuable insights to the
broader field of disaster management and resilience planning. However, the obstacle the
researchers must go through is to improve and add distinguishing features to the device that other
conducted studies similar to this project have never done before. Thus, the researchers ultimately
aim to develop a distinctive warning system with SMS alert that has the potential to save lives,
2
protect property, and enhance community resilience in the face of increasingly devastating
floods.
Background of the Study
The Philippines experiences flooding from time to time, one (1) considering its
geographical location. These are caused to name a few, by prolonged rainfalls, storm surges,
seiches, and others. According to the Department of Science and Technology–Philippine
Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration or DOST-PAGASA
website (2022), this results to damage onto its impact on socio-economic situation and
infrastructure. The said government organization added that there are two (2) types of flooding;
major flooding, where there is no bank overflow and is simply due to the accumulation of
excessive surface run-off in low lying areas, whereas major flooding, the most damaging type, is
caused by the overflowing by rivers and lakes. It includes serious brakes in dikes and other
protective structures, as well as uncontrollable releases in reservoirs. The World Bank
Organization-Climate Knowledge Portal website (2021) explains that 23% of the average annual
hazard occurrences in the country from the year 1980 to 2020 are floods. They added that under
a changing climate, rainfall due to typhoons and other weather extremities may increase in both
intensity and frequency, contributing to flood risk. Flooding is evident in Marinduque as Inquirer
reports the flooding in several areas Typhoon Rolly landfalls back in 2020. Typhoon Ruby did
the same in 2014 where Mogpog and Boac River overflowed which urged evacuation. The
University of the Philippines Report on LiDAR Surveys and Flood Mapping (2017, p. 68)
showed the flood level and area affected of barangays based on the Light Detection and Ranging
(LiDAR) survey conducted on communities along Boac River. Few of the mitigating solutions
3
according to the World Meteorological Organization or WMO (2011) includes a flood
monitoring and warning system that concerns early observation of flooding and data reporting
which aims to provide notice of an impending flood to authorities and the public. WMO added
that flood forecasting and warning includes real-time data collection, response to warning,
preparation of forecasts, communication and dissemination of messages, and interpretation of
forecast.
This study on flood monitoring and warning system with SMS alert utilizes theories as
foundation on its research including Protection Motivation Theory which explains that
individuals are more likely to protect themselves when given a warning, before a disaster occurs.
This, in turn, make early warning systems effective as people ‘motivate themselves’ to protect
his or her own, or even others when they are made aware of consequences. Under
Communication Theory, there are different levels of communication that can be used to deliver
messages. In the case of a flood monitoring and warning device, mass communications are
viable, which now lies Agenda-setting theory that gives the assumption that media filters and
shapes what the audience sees, and the public is more likely to consider an issue important when
media gives more attention to it. Such theories are fundamental in giving basis to the study.
Other studies like of Rossi et al. (2015) used mobile sensing for flood service where they
evaluated delay contributions of data reporting to the cloud with and without images, then
evaluated users through a POST stress test. Thus, evaluating and demonstrating its viability for
effective flood emergency management. Meanwhile, Raj, Hazra, and Hanz (2022) proposed a
flood alert system that checks the flood level with the use of Raspberry pi and an Ultrasonic
Sensor (HC-SR04). They used Thinkspeak, an IoT (Internet of Things), to relay data along with
4
a GSM. Ibarreche et al. (2020) utilized a Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) which is a data logger
control, an Inter Integrated Circuits (I2C) unit consisting of a Global Positioning System (GPS)
components, and Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter unit relays data both being
received and transmitted. Their study presented an early warning system that alert areas that can
possibly suffer from flash floods in real time and concluded that the system produced, though
still under development, that a network such as theirs “may shortly reduce impacts of floods.”
The data presented above shows the problems entailed on flooding, specifically in
Marinduque. To mitigate this problem, an effective flood warning and monitoring system shall
be utilized. Specific theories are fundamental as basis for producing such device. It is
aforementioned that Protection Motivation Theory, Communication Theory, and Agenda-setting
Theory explains theoretical assumptions regarding the behavior and response of people when it
comes to being alerted and medium of communication. Meanwhile, studies of Raj, Hazra, and
Hanz, as well as Ibarreche et al. primarily used an IoT system to relay data and evaluated the
effectiveness of their device alone—unlike in the study of Rossi et al. who evaluated the
effectiveness of the system including the response of sample users of the said system instead of
the latter. Generally, all the results of the study were acceptable and ideal for flood monitoring
and warning. Though of favorable results, the researchers considered the delimitations of
relevant studies and literature in order to produce a better working device.
5
Conceptual Framework
This research follows the Context Input Process Product Model (CIPP). The
figure below shows the flow of the study with regards to the processes included and delimited in
this research – including the aims or objectives as well as its context.
Shown in Figure 1 are the targets of the researchers per subsets of methods in the inputs,
processes, and outputs. The researchers evaluated in the inputs the necessary materials, both
hardware and software, to proceed in setting up the device sufficient for testing. The separation
of the target to be achieved by the researchers shows the chronology of the methods in
conducting the research.
Figure 1: Research Paradigm
6
Statement of the Problem
The main objective of this project is to develop a warning system that monitors and
indicates flood level through SMS alert.
Specifically, this study is ought to answer the following:
1. Is the flood warning system capable of monitoring and indicating flood level?
2. Is there a significant difference between the manual reading and detected water level of
ultrasonic sensor?
3. At what distance between the maximum water level and the ultrasonic sensor is the device
effective?
a. 10 cm
b. 20 cm
c. 30 cm
4. At what distance from the wall will the ultrasonic sensor be the most effective?
a. 0 cm
b. 12.5 cm
c. 25 cm
5. At what geographic location does the GSM will be the most effective in sending SMS?
a. Low-lying areas
b. Mountainous areas
7
Research Hypothesis
Based om the questions formulated, the following hypotheses will be tested:
Null Hypothesis
The warning system is not effective in monitoring and indicating flood level.
H o: A < B
Alternative Hypothesis
The warning system is not effective in monitoring and indicating flood level.
H A: A > B
Whereas A is the warning system while B would be the monitoring and indicating flood level.
Scientific Hypothesis
8
Significance of the Study
The study “Monitoring and Indicating Flood Level Warning System with Automatic
Short Message Service (SMS)” could be beneficial to the following:
Community. The study can promote community involvement in disaster preparedness and
response. By providing people with flood-level warning alerts through their mobile phones, they
can take an active role in ensuring their safety and become more aware of the risks associated
with flooding in their area. They could also become prepared and alert for any additional
announcements that would be made by the barangay officials or government.
Barangay Officials. This study can benefit in helping the barangay officials execute a successful
evacuation if necessary. One of the main things a flood warning system does for the officials is
to alert them about the status of a nearby body of water if it were to flood. Additionally, the SMS
feature of the device can help with information dissemination. Thanks to the warning system
already informing the community, the officials could focus on preparations for evacuation if they
received the ordinance made by the government or if the situation was dire enough to issue the
protocol themselves.
The Local Government Unit. This study can help local government units make the best
decision for the community. Early warning systems are often intertwined in the planning process
for disaster risk reduction. With access to community hazard maps, the local government unit
can easily decide how much and which part of the community is required to be displaced for
their safety thanks to the information provided by the warning system.
9
Future Researchers. This study can aid future researchers if they wish to partake in research
that is related. Either by helping with setting the groundwork for innovation or to allow future
researchers to have more material to compare, contrast, and refer to.
Scope and Delimitation of the Study
The general objective of this experimental mixed-method research study is to create a
flood warning system with SMS alerts that monitors and indicates flood level. The device is
aimed at providing people and communities living in flood-prone areas with real-time
information regarding the river's water level and flood state. The flood warning system consists
of an ultrasonic sensor, GSM module, LCD display, and an embedded system. The system will
use a sensor to monitor the flood level once the water starts to rise within its normal level and the
information gathered will be transmitted to the server. The server will then analyze the data and
send SMS alerts to the residents in the affected areas.
On top of that, this study aims to develop a flood warning device that is focused on
indicating and monitoring flood level and does not cover the prediction of the occurrence of
flood, as well as determining the possible flood extent. The research is also limited to the
development and implementation of an SMS-based warning system that provides alerts through
SMS and will not investigate other types of warning systems or methods. Furthermore, the
researchers will only focus on determining the accuracy of the ultrasonic sensor and will not
examine the accuracy of other types of sensors. Additionally, this study is confined to developing
10
a device that monitors the level of flood in rivers and not the other types of floods such as coastal
and flash floods.
The concern of this study is utilizing a single flood monitoring device to measure
stationary waters rather than simulating the dynamic flow of a river. Consequently, the
researcher’s development of a single sensor device limits the study’s scope to examine one side
of the container rather than testing various floor elevations that replicate the river conditions.
This constraint arises from the need for several sensors or devices to provide a thorough
examination on different floor elevations.
The testing of the prototypes’ capacity in monitoring and indicating flood levels through
SMS alerts will only include a specific geographic area and does not cover all the barangays in
Boac, Marinduque and may not be applicable to other regions or countries. Furthermore, the tests
will only be conducted in a controlled laboratory environment and not in an actual river, which
could limit the external validity of the study.
In testing the efficacy and the speed of the SMS with various terrains, the research does
not cover the effectiveness of the SMS alert feature in different weather conditions, such its
speed during the rainy season since the weather is out of the researchers' control and this research
was conducted during summer, specifically, in the month of April to May of 2023.
There are certain variables that have had an impact on the efficacy of the investigation
that are beyond the control of the researchers. The success of the study depends on the
researchers' expertise in conducting the evaluation and testing of the device. However, these
systematic and random errors cannot be avoided. In manufacturing of materials, specifically the
11
container used in the experiment, has imperfections and deformities that considerably affect the
equal measuring of its sides and floors, limiting having uniform water level all throughout the
container during the process of evaluating and testing the devices’ accuracy. In addition to the
container's unusual shape, the researchers considered its placement because they had no control
over the floor level. In addition, the indicated water level of an ultrasonic sensor is always a
whole number and does not contain any decimal places, which may affect its accuracy when
compared to the manual reading. Although these factors may cause inaccuracy of the gathered
data and ultimately affect the overall result and findings of the study, it still is unfortunately
beyond the researcher’s control. It is because this study is conducted with a limited amount of
time frame and financial resources which may have affected the overall production and the
testing of the prototype.
12
CHAPTER II
REVIEW OF THE RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES
This chapter of the paper presents the Review of Related Literature and Studies,
Theoretical Framework, Definition of Terms, and Synthesis.
Monitoring and Indicating Flood Level
Flooding has been a problem in numerous places around the world. It also has the
potential to destroy properties and take people’s lives. Therefore, in order to reduce or lessen the
damage floods may bring, monitoring and indicating the flood level became essential. As such,
there are variety of ways to monitor and indicate flood levels, including the traditionally used
tool which is the staff gauges.
A staff gauge is defined by Huron River Watershed Council (2016) as a tool similar to a
ruler, but in bigger version and is used as a measuring tool to indicate water level on river. The
staff gauge is numerically labelled by feet and tenths of feet that were marked with longer harsh
line. Installing such a tool is of high feasibility because it is less maintenance compared to other
flow measurement tools (Tracom News, 2018). However, although staff gauges can accurately
measure the water level, it has many setbacks. The Tracom News (2021) have cited that
readability of the tool can be at disadvantage if its placement is of greater distance. Additionally,
extreme turbulence of water could also be considered as disadvantage of staff gauge as it can
alter its measurement.
13
Fortunately, the technology develops rapidly, resulting in discoveries and inventions of
highly advanced equipment. Hence, the use of manual reading to monitor water level was
replaced by sensors, particularly, ultrasonic sensor⸻a commonly utilized sensor for
determining the flood level because of their excellent precision and dependability (Sabatinni et
al., 2021). Also, due to their cost-effectiveness and non-contact measurement capability,
ultrasonic sensors have been widely used in different industries (de Castro et al., 2023).
The ultrasonic sensor measures the distance of an object by transmitting and receiving an
ultrasonic sound wave. Transducer emits signal and receives ultrasonic pulses that relay back
information about an object’s proximity. High-frequency sound waves reflect from boundaries to
produce distinct echo patterns (Cenite, 2015). Furthermore, several studies have been carried out
to assess the utility of using ultrasonic sensors for flood monitoring.
For instance, a study by Natividad and Mendez (2018) aimed to develop a real-time flood
monitoring and early warning system in the northern portion of the province of Isabela,
particularly the municipalities near Cagayan River with the utilization of Arduino as the
microcontroller and ultrasonic sensors as the water level sensor. The study evaluated the system's
performance through a temporary basin to test the water level. Also, the water level is measured
in inches in the designed prototype. Furthermore, to obtain accurate data, the input of the device
has several parameters. As for the result of the study, they concluded that the device that uses
ultrasonic sensor to detect water level functions perfectly as it passed several tests based on
different parameters.
Similarly, a study conducted by Mohammed et al. (2019) entitled “Highly Accurate
Water Level Measurement System Using a Microcontroller and an Ultrasonic Sensor” aimed to
14
develop an ultrasonic sensor-based flood monitoring system. The study used an ultrasonic sensor
to measure the water level and a microcontroller to control the sensor and display the measured
data. The system was tested in a laboratory setup, using a rectangular water tank. To measure the
accuracy of the sensor, they compared the actual level reading and the measured level readings,
with the actual reading being obtained using a scale ruler attached vertically to the tank. As for
the result of the study, based on the statistical results, it is safe to assume that the ultrasonic
sensor was accurate and reliable.
The two studies aimed to develop flood monitoring systems using ultrasonic sensors and
Arduino as the microcontroller. However, they differ in their approaches, with the first study
focusing on the different features of the device, such as for SMS and power supply, reducing the
focus on the accuracy of the sensor. Meanwhile the second study mostly focused on the software
aspect, as well as the testing of ultrasonic sensor. The first study and second study evaluated the
system's performance in a laboratory setup, however, in terms of more reliable experiment, the
second study can be credited as they thoroughly evaluate the sensor’s capability to accurately
measure water levels.
However, both studies have similar limitations. The first and second study did not
evaluate the system's performance in a real flood scenario, which is crucial for determining the
system's practicality. The limitation of this study questions the accuracy of ultrasonic sensor in
turbulent flow regimes as it has not been evaluated. There may be a possibility of ultrasonic
sensor having a not accurate monitoring considering the water turbulence. Fortunately, such
beliefs can be debunked as contrary to the two studies, a study conducted by Pereira et al. (2022)
aimed to evaluate the accuracy of ultrasonic sensor when turbulent flow of water is present.
15
Based on the result, the combination of Arduino and ultrasonic sensor is adequate in measuring
water levels accurately for permanent and transient flow of water, including conditions in which
the turbulence is high.
Overall, all the cited studies have proven that ultrasonic can effectively measure accurate
water level. The accuracy of ultrasonic sensor was further proven by the third study in which its
capability to measure accurate water level was tested when there is a turbulence in water.
Therefore, it can be considered that the ultrasonic sensor is an effective instrument for
monitoring and indicating flood levels.
Warning System
The International Labour Organization (ILO) notes that disasters are a major issue that
requires urgent actions due to their frequency and intensity. Stating that only in 2021, 432
catastrophic events took place, affecting about 101.8 million worldwide. Which surpasses the
annual average of catastrophic events recorded in 2001-2020 numbering 357 events. Thus,
furthering the need for early warning systems for the safety of the community and mitigation of
the risks produced by disasters. The ILO consider early warning systems as a major component
when it comes to disaster risk reduction.
The Global Disaster Preparedness Center states that “early warning systems represent the
set of capacities needed to generate and disseminate timely and meaningful warning information
to enable individuals, communities and organizations threatened by a hazard to prepare and to
act appropriately and in sufficient time to reduce the possibility of harm or loss.” A checklist was
developed to determine if an early warning system is effective. For an early warning system to
16
be considered good, it should have the four major elements in place: risk knowledge, monitoring
and warning service, dissemination and communication, and response capability (United Nations
Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, 2006). Several warning systems were already developed and
researched, especially when it comes to monitoring and indicating flood levels, thus this section
aims to review all related literature and studies about flood level early warning systems.
Mastor, F. et al. (2015) developed a pre-flood warning system that uses almost similar
materials as this study. The research conducted by Mastor, F, et al. is a great reference material
especially as it extensively explains the pros and cons of each material or part used in developing
a flood warning system; be it the use of different communication channels, 2G-GSM and 3G for
SMS technology, user mobility, sensors for measuring water level, and different
microcontrollers. They tested their device against three different tests (Accuracy, System, and
Performance testing) which received great results.
Meanwhile, Devaraj Sheshu, E., et al. (2018) took the previous research a step further.
Despite using materials different from the previous research and this study, it does provide ideas
on how the current warning system could be further developed. With the addition of IR sensors
as supposed to only use Ultrasonic sensors, a buzzer, the use of a website, and a different
microcontroller. It was stated by the researchers of that study that their system does function
well, the only recommendation is that their system could still use some improvements in terms of
accuracy. Another problem that can be noted is that the warning system is only designed to send
alerts to the authorities and does not include the residents that may be in danger.
Locally, there had been a study on developing a flood warning system in the province of
Sorsogon. The researchers Labo, J. J., Floresca, E. E., and Gracilla, L. E. (2016) tested their
17
flood level monitoring device by submerging water level sensors in canals which in turn tests the
LED indicators, siren alarm, emergency light, and the performance of the River Monitor
Software or the Water Level monitor. The demonstration of their flood warning device in the
results and discussion raises some questions regarding the energy required to run it as it is stated
that the warning device has the following features: emergency light, sirens to alert the residents,
and LED lights to specify at what warning level the water level is in. Another question would be
using only the LED lights to indicate the flood level may end up being missed by some residents
as opposed to SMS alerts that may be checked anytime.
Overall, despite the differences the studies may have taken on the development of a flood
warning device, it doesn’t change the fact that all of them do work and are viable to apply to the
community. The researchers plan to ensure that the study “Monitoring and Indicating Flood
Level Warning System with Automatic Short Message System (SMS) Alert” would be able to
cover the limitations noticed from the studies reviewed above by ensuring the accuracy of the
warning system and the broadness of who would be able to receive the warning alert.
Short Message Service (SMS) Alert System
Short Message Service (SMS) is defined by Cambridge Dictionary as a “system for
sending short text messages from one mobile phone to another.” McSweeny (2018) stated that
SMS services, collectively referred to as ‘text messaging,’ the technical limitations involved in
this regard is secondary to its function according for many end users. This is further proven as
texting has emerged as the most widely-used form of CMC or Computer-Mediated
Communication where mobile phones and subscriptions are, particularly on SMS packs, have
become cheaper (Cougnon and Fairon, 2014) – contracting the limitation of SMS when it comes
18
to message size. Short Message Service is also described as one of the modern forms of
communication. Both authors, in their book, used technical and situational aspects to distinguish
SMS texting from other forms of CMC texting such as size of messages accepted, devices they
are used in, its speed (e.g. instant communication), and intended scale of communication. Cho &
Hung (2011) explained that SMS is considered to be a new form of technology. With its use, it is
described as an instant, cost-effective, and ubiquitous communication tool; users can practically
use it anywhere and anytime they want to send text messages. With these viewpoints provided in
several literatures, the researchers considered SMS as a viable and acceptable tool to be used in
an alert system, along with its limitations to give regard.
De Guzman et al. (2016), Yumang et al. (2017), and Natividad & Mendez (2018)
integrated SMS into their research in flood alert systems. In the study of De Guzman et al.
(2016), they incorporated the Short Messaging System, and it was automatically sent to
recognized recipients based on the data interpreted based on the ultrasonic sensor. This is to warn
users with regards to the situation on roads. This will continue in sending SMS with the use of a
Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) module until the sensor detects normal water
level. The SMS is to be sent to the Local Government Unit (LGU) and disseminate the message
to the community. De Guzman et al. added that their system includes Users, Logs, and Contact
Numbers modules, modifiable by the admin in order to send SMS containing the date, time,
water level, and road accessibility to be sent to both Forecaster/LGU and residents. Meanwhile,
Natividad and Mendez (2018) discussed the cost of money and time when it comes for residents
to monitoring water level, then suffering from the unsuspecting flood. Thus, they made a
designed a prototype that provides interactive and real-time information on the current water
19
level. Unlike to De Guzman et al., Natividad and Mendez used two (2) GSMs. The first GSM
module is connected to the device that collects data read from the sensor, then relays the data to
another GSM modem. The second GSM dispatched the messages to concerned governmental
bodies and communities, as well as a computer server where the message received through SMS
alerts, citing low cost and low data bandwidth, will be interpreted, and analyzed to be relayed to
a developed website. Their alert system also differentiates from the previous study as concerned
agencies and communities can inquire about the current status through sending a message
containing keywords, thus developing a two-way communication system between the device and
participants. Natividad and Mendez included several features with regards to the SMS sent to the
relevant stakeholders. An application was made and used in the computer server using a Fuzzy
Logic algorithm for decision making given to the microcontroller. The message sent to
stakeholders contains the water level and the alert level, different from De Guzman et al. where
theirs included the date, time, water level, and road accessibility. Another comparison to the
preceding study is that Natividad and Mendez set SMS notification delivery intervals to specific
alert levels. They concluded that the two-way communication developed provided more
flexibility in providing information and data to the community. As for Yumang et al. (2017),
their study incorporated SMS into their objectives to function as it notifies people whether the
area is passable or not and in real time. The module used in the study to transmit the message is a
GSM shield – another variant of the GSM devices. The content of SMS is limited to specific
acronyms indicating corresponding messages and the said messages has only the content of
whether an area is passable or not. Unlike the studies of De Guzman et al., and Natividad and
Mendez, Yumang et al. tested the SMS sending speed of the device with the unit of time in
seconds and when tested, it shows that it takes around 2 seconds to receive the message from the
20
GSM. In this study, the researchers consider that SMS sending speed should be testing in areas
where flooding hazard is high. This also includes the test for accuracy of the measurement read
by the ultrasonic sensor. The SMS alert system should provide accurate content with regards to
the water level and alert level used in the sensor to be disseminated by governing bodies and
people in the community. Minimal error on the accuracy should be achieve as not being able to
do so may cause unnecessary panic and confusion.
In the proposed system of Kato, Sinde, and Kaijage (2015), they plan to use SMS as one
of the ways to send a critical water status. This is where a message from the device is sent to a
mobile phone using GSM technology; the other being there is a person in charge in overseeing
and interpreting data received. Overall, this study involved the incorporation of SMS in the early
warning system to warn users about flooding status. No mention of the content of the said SMS
were stated in this study. Azid et al. (2015) also incorporated SMS to their flood warning system
to be SMS-based and also the use of a GSM module. They emphasized that a possible problem
the system may develop is when the network provider makes changes to the network as the GSM
module cannot upgrade itself. Azid et al. also included that the user can check the battery status
of the device through the GSM module via SMS. Banakar et al. (2019) also used a GSM module
that automatically sends the SMS alert to the registered mobile number in real time. The message
contained in the SMS is the flood water level. Banakar et al. itemized the advantages and
disadvantages of their device based on their assessment. Some positive valuation is that the
people are alerted to react quickly, and the device is inexpensive. Network availability could go
wrong, and the SMS cannot be sent is one disadvantage. In this particular study, the speed of the
SMS being sent is also tested as part of the alert system Banakar et al. proposed.
21
All relevant studies, both foreign and local, incorporated SMS as part of the alert system
with the use of a GSM module to transmit or relay messages directed by the microcontroller.
Unlike the other studies, Natividad and Mendez used two GSM – one modem and one module –
to relay messages containing water level data from the sensor passed onto the microcontroller. In
testing SMS, several of these studies involved testing the speed of the message sent up until the
time it was received. Another notable difference is that the content of the messages sent by some
respective flood warning models also includes additional information other that the water level
such as the date, time, area status, and others. Another differentiating feature of certain studies
mentioned and cited is another feature where users can instruct the GSM to do certain things
through the use of SMS such as requesting for the current flood level and the battery status of the
device.
Theoretical Framework
Development of an Early Warning System
During the Third International Conference on Early Warning — on the date of March 27-
29, 2006 — the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) put forth a
checklist on how governments and community organizations can develop and evaluate early
warning systems. described as a “practical, non-technical reference tool to ensure that the major
elements of a good early warning system are in place.” According to UNDRR, there are four
interrelated elements that make a complete and effective early warning system: Risk Knowledge,
Monitoring & Warning Service, Dissemination & Communication, and Response Capability.
(1)Risk Knowledge – Systematically collect data and undertake risk assessments. (2)Monitoring
& Warning Service – Develop hazard monitoring and early warning services. (3)Dissemination
22
& Communications – Communicate risk information and early warnings. (4)Response Capability
– Build national and community response capabilities.
This study plans to develop a prototype that can aid with three of the elements (Risk
Knowledge, Monitoring & Warning Service, and Dissemination & Communications) for the
accommodation of the community’s plans against natural hazards — floods to be specific — that
may impact the community (Which falls under Response capability). On the element of risk
knowledge, the flood level warning system would monitor and indicate the flood level of a body
of water near the community while the authorities would refer to their developed risk maps to
know who would be vulnerable to the potential flood. On the element of Monitoring & Warning
Service, this study’s device is set to send alerts when the flood level reaches the set parameters
on when it could get dangerous. Finally, regarding the element of Dissemination &
Communications, the flood-level warning system would utilize SMS alerts; which can be readily
accessible to anyone as long as they have a phone.
Justification of a Warning System
Inouye, J. (2017) from Campbell Institute presents several theories regarding risk
perception theory and how each theory and concept was put into action. One of the theories
mentioned, the Protection Motivation Theory, best exemplifies why early warning systems are
often developed. The theory states “People are more likely to protect themselves when they
anticipate negative consequences, have the desire to avoid them, and feel they have the ability to
take preventive measures.” It was also mentioned that if people were made aware of the
consequences of their actions on others can also make them avoid high-risk behavior and be
motivated to protect themselves and others.
23
Early warning systems like the one being developed by this study aim to take advantage
of this theory. A combination of the measures a community already has in case of a natural
disaster and a warning system that alerts the community in advance ensures that the people
would be able to avoid risking their lives and their families. Based on the theory, the
development and usage of an early warning system falls under allowing people to be aware of
negative consequences and perhaps even giving them the ability to take preventive measures. As
they are made aware of an impending flood, depending on whether the people do have the desire
to protect themselves and how they understand the severity of the situation surrounding them
would be the deciding factor on whether they evacuate. Regardless, allowing people to have the
chance to take preventive measures is highly beneficial in protecting as many people as possible.
Method of Information Dissemination
Under Communication theory, it is stated that there are different levels of communication
that can be used to transfer messages from one to another through any medium. The main form
of communication that the flood level warning system utilizes is Mass Communication. Mass
communication is defined by Volle, A.. (2022) as the “process of sharing information with a
large audience. Mass communication is accomplished via mass media—that is, technology
capable of sending messages to great numbers of people, many of whom are unknown to the
sender.”
Under mass communication lies Agenda-Setting Theory. This theory has two core assumptions:
(1) media filters and shapes what the audience sees rather than just reflecting stories, and (2) the
more attention the media gives to an issue, the more likely the public will consider that issue to
be important. This relates to the reasoning behind choosing SMS as a method of information
dissemination as well as deciding on who would receive the alerts via messages. If a member of
24
the community receives an alert regarding the impending flood that may occur due to the rising
flood level, it would fulfill both assumptions and bring attention to the danger. This would also
make evacuation efforts by the authorities of the community easier as the community members
may already be aware and prioritize taking action against the rising waters.
Definition of Terms
Arduino Uno – the microcontroller that gives instructions to the ultrasonic sensor and other
components.
Flood monitoring – it is the process of determining the water level by using sensor
and/or manual reading.
Manual Reading – it is the process of indicating water level by manually reading the
measurement taken by the ruler.
Ultrasonic Sensor – it serves as the component of the warning system that monitor and indicate
flood level.
Short Message Service (SMS) – it is the alert notification of the device that will be received
by mobile phones.
Warning system – system that monitors flood conditions and delivers alerts to the public and
emergency personnel in a disaster region.
25
Synthesis
Through an in-depth review of the related studies and literature, this study aims to
provide a further understanding of the variables needed for conducting a “Monitoring and
Indicating Flood Level Warning System with Automatic Short Message Service (SMS) Alert”.
Likewise, in order to realize the main objective of the study, the researchers reviewed the
relevant literature on monitoring and indicating flood level, warning system, and short message
service (SMS) Alert System. These variables were discussed in order to support and contrast the
current study with previous research. Similarly, the relevant studies related to the Flood Warning
System, as well as the use of an ultrasonic sensor and Arduino and their effectiveness in
detecting flood levels, were also reviewed in order to acquire insights and recommendations for
improving the viability and reliability of the device.
In general, the aforementioned review of related studies and literature provided a firm
basis for the development of the monitoring and indicating flood level warning system with
automatic Short Message Service (SMS) Alert, and the insights gained from previous research
will help guide further development of the device. Overall, these variables significantly
contribute to the development of the flood warning system, thus assisting in reducing the
devastating impact of floods on the environment.
26
CHAPTER III
METHODS OF RESEARCH AND PROCEDURE
Research Design
The research employed an experimental approach to develop a device intended to
monitor and indicate flood levels, incorporating an SMS alert feature. This feature aids in the
preparation and protection of people during floods. To determine the accuracy and the potential
of the device, the researchers utilized a Single Group Design. In the single group design, a group
of subjects has been administered a treatment which is measured or observed. To further
examine its accuracy, the researchers administered interventions for the ultrasonic sensor and the
warning system, which were measured and observed three times. The researchers use Analysis of
Variance (ANOVA) to statistically analyze the study's findings during design administration.
Research Locale
The research is being carried out at one of the researchers' residences in Bangbangalon,
Boac, Marinduque, as shown in Figure 2. This location was chosen for the reason it has
sufficient space to conduct the experiment required to determine the accuracy of monitoring and
indicating flood level of the ultrasonic sensor.
27
Figure 2. Bangbangalon
Specifically located at 13°26’15.3” N latitude and 121°49’52.3” E longitude, the
experimental area is located near Bangbangalon Basketball Court on east and on the west by
Santol Road. Barangay Bangbangalon is located approximately 3.1 kilometers away from Boac
District, specifically from Marinduque National High School.
The study was also conducted in the Barangay Halls of Tabigue, as shown in Figure 3
and Ogbac, as shown in Figure 4. These locations were selected from a study conducted by the
University of the Philippines in 2017 that determined the areas affected in Boac during a 5-year
rainfall return period and its depth of flood. The affected areas from the study are then
categorized first by their topographical location whether it is low-lying or in mountainous areas.
From the two categories, it has been randomly chosen that Tabigue as the low lying and Ogbac
as the mountainous. The researchers will conduct an experiment to test the efficacy and the speed
of transmitting SMS messages in an area with varied terrain and environment such areas with
low elevation, steep inclines and potential obstacles such as trees and residential buildings.
28
Figure 3 Tabigue
The barangay Hall of Tabigue is specifically located at 13°27’11” N latitude and
121°49’21” E longitude, the experimental area is located beside the Tabigue Basketball Court.
Barangay Tabigue is about 3.6 kilometers from Boac District, specifically Marinduque National
High School.
Figure 4 Ogbac
The barangay Hall of Ogbac is specifically located at 13°25’00” N latitude and
121°04’08” E longitude, the experimental area is located beside the Tabigue Basketball Court.
29
Barangay Tabigue is about 12.4 kilometers from Boac District, specifically Marinduque National
High School.
Research Instruments and Techniques
Preparation of Materials
Once the location where the experiment would be conducted was decided, the researchers
first gathered the materials to develop a flood warning system to experiment on which includes
buying an Ultrasonic sensor HC-SR04, Arduino Uno R3 ATmega 328p, SIM900 GSM/GPRS,
Jumper wire, Breadboard, Resistor 560, LED lights, and LCD Crystal I2C from the local market
and through online shopping. The solar charge controller is bought online, the 12V motor battery
is bought locally, while the solar module is from one of the researchers. These aforementioned
materials were shown in Figure 5 below.
Hardware Construction of the Flood Monitoring and Warning System
This demonstrates the process of assembling the physical components of the device. In
order to achieve the device primary functions efficiently it is crucial to assemble the Flood
Monitoring and Indicating Warning System’s hardware correctly. The researchers use the
provided hardware components in order for them to successfully build a flood monitoring and
indicating warning device. The researchers prepare an acrylic box that will serve as the main
body of the device and they diligently sought for a stand where the ultrasonic will be placed.
Moreover, the ultrasonic sensor was mounted using cardboard to ensure that it did not interfere
with the readings. After the components have been connected by the jumper wires, the assembled
device will be placed inside the acrylic box that includes components such as the Arduino UNO
30
R3 board, breadboard, and the GSM module SIM900A. Meanwhile, the LCD was placed at top
of the box, and the light indicators were placed beneath it.
Once the location where the experiment would be conducted was decided, the researchers
first gathered the materials to develop a flood warning system to experiment on which includes
buying an Ultrasonic sensor HC-SR04, Arduino Uno R3 ATmega 328p, SIM900 GSM/GPRS,
Jumper wire, Breadboard, Resistor 560, LED lights, and LCD Crystal I2C from the local market
and through online shopping.
Figure 6 Hardware Construction and General Connection of the Flood Monitoring and
Warning System
Overall Design of the Project
Upon evaluating all the necessary components of the flood warning system with SMS
alert, below is the visual representation and schematics of the entire system. This shows how the
Arduino Uno board is connected to the other components. Figure 6 shows the representation of
the system or overall design.
31
The Arduino Uno contains codes where instructions are placed. These instructions are
executed by the Arduino microcontroller that gives orders to the other components in the system.
The Arduino instructs the ultrasonic sensor to measure the water level. The measurements are
then sent back to the Arduino which spreads the data to the other components. The Light Crystal
Display or LCD shows the measurement read by the ultrasonic sensor. While this is being done,
the data measurements are also sent to the SIM900 GSM/GPRS module. The said module
Figure 7 Overall Design of the System
executes commands from the Arduino which are the instructions to send the SMS alert
depending on the water level. This is also seen in the LED lights where these light up depending
on the water level.
32
Electronics Assembly and Circuit D esign
After constructing the hardware components of the device, the researchers then
assembled the circuit design. This shows the diagrams, wiring connections, and units involved in
the system. The circuit design also shows the representation of the physical electronic circuits
with the components and units involved. Figure 8 shows the units are connected to the Arduino
Uno microcontroller.
Figure 8.1 Arduino Board and HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Sensor Electronic Assembly and
Circuit Design
33
As for Figure 8.1, this
shows how the HC- SR04 ultrasonic
sensor is connected to the microcontroller. The trigger pin of the sensor is connected to the
number 9 pin in the Arduino board while the echo pin is connected to pin number 10. Figure 8.2
below, on the other hand, shows the connection between the Arduino and the SIM900
GSM/GPRS module. The Ground pins, and both number 7 and 8 pins of the Arduino and the
Figure 7.2 Arduino Board and SIM900 GSM/GPRS Electronic Assembly and Circuit Design
GSM/GPRS are connected to each other respectively.
The electronic assembly and circuit design between the Arduino board, Light Crystal
Display or LCD, and LED lights is shown in Figure 7.3 below. The LED lights has their own
colors indicating their respective flood levels. Each of all the LED lights are connected to a 560Ω
on their anode. The resistors connected to the anode of the LED lights are wired to the GND or
ground pin of the Arduino Uno while its cathodes are wired to the numbers 2, 3, 4, and 5 pins in
the Arduino which are the pins for the Arduino to send commands. The SDA and SCL pins from
the LCD are connected to analog pins 4 and 5, respectively. The VCC and GND pins of the LCD
are also wired to the Arduino through the 5V and GND pins, respectively.
34
Lastly, Figure 7.4 shows the connection of the components that serves as the power
source for the main device module. It comprises of a solar module that absorbs light energy from
the sun then converts it to electrical energy, a solar charge controller which controls the amount
of energy it lets through onto the battery, and a motor battery which serves as the main storage
for electrical energy. The positive wires (red wires) and negative wires (black wires) are
connected to each component. When connecting these to the solar charge controller, the order of
battery-solar panel/module-load is followed to avoid short circuiting it.
Figure 7.4 Solar Module, Solar Charge Controller, and Motor Battery Electronics Assembly and
Circuit Design 35
Programming of Flood Monitoring and Warning System
The system of the Flood Monitoring and Warning device is powered by several software
which is crucial for its function. Since the device has an ultrasonic sensor, a SIM900
GSM/GPRS module for sending SMS, and LCD for the water level display, a software program
is needed for to accomplish the input, processes, and outputs. This entire process entails several
key parts. These are, first, separate programming of the HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor, SIM900
GSM/GPRS, LCD, and LED lights, and second, the combination of the sketches of codes of the
aforementioned components. With the use of Arduino Integrated Development Environment or
Arduino IDE, an open source programming software for Arduino components, the programming
of each part of the flood monitoring and warning system is made possible.
Individual Programming: HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Sensor
After the researchers installed the Arduino IDE application, they now proceeded to
program the individual components of the system starting with the ultrasonic sensor. Figure 8
below shows the depicted primary codes used for acquiring the distance as read by the said
sensor.
36
Figure 8 Coding for Ultrasonic Sensor
The code entails the maximum distance the ultrasonic sensor can measure, the unit it is
measured and connections. The code is then verified and the connection or wiring between the
ultrasonic sensor and Arduino Uno is made sure to be correct and in the right place before
uploading the code. It can be seen that there is an equation used at line 17 in the code and this is
because the sensor measures how far away the object it detects is. To be able to measure the
water level, linear equations were used particularly the slope of a line and point-slope form to be
able to derive to this final equation.
37
Programming Light Crystal Display (LCD), LED lights, and Ultrasonic Sensor
The programming the ultrasonic sensor to be able to measure a water level, the program
sketches for the LCD and LED lights are then added. Figure 9 shows the codes for this function.
The figure above shows the programming done by the researchers. This coding contains
the measurement of the water level read by the ultrasonic sensor, followed by the output of the
LCD screen, as well as the instruction when to light up the LED lights depending on the water
level detected.
Figure 9 Codes for LCD, LED lights, and Ultrasonic Sensor

38
Programming Ultrasonic Sensor and SIM900 GSM/GPRS Module
The GSM/GPRS module and sensor is then programmed for sending SMS to multiple
recipients depending on the water level read. This is shown in Figure 10 below. The codes
contains if-then functions where conditions are set according when and to whom the SMS will be
sent with regards to the water level.
Combining Sketches of Separated Coding
Figure 10 Programming GSM/GPRS Module and Ultrasonic Sensor
39
After coding individual programs separately for each components of the system, it is then
combined by the researchers into one single sketch of programming. This is shown in Figure 12
below.
Figure 11 Combination of Sketches in Arduino IDE
40
Operation Flow Chart of the System
Figure 12 depicts the operational flow chart of the warning system device, which
functions as a guide for the researchers to follow throughout the testing process of the study.
Figure 12 Operational Flow Chart of the Device
Figure 12 illustrates the initial phase of device operation, wherein the lack of power
supply results in the cessation of device’s functionality due to its inability to operate. Conversely,
41
with the power supply activated, the Arduino board initiates a command sequence to prompt the
ultrasonic sensor to detect the water level, while simultaneously displaying the reading of the
sensor on the LCD screen. Furthermore, if the water level reaches or exceeds seven (7) cm, as
detected by the ultrasonic sensor, the Arduino instructs the GSM module to transmit an SMS. It
is imperative to emphasize that the successful transmission of the SMS hinges upon the
operational status of the GSM module, as the absence of power supply to the module precludes
the transmission of the SMS. On the other hand, in scenarios where the water level sensed by the
sensor remains below seven (7) cm, the Arduino refrains from issuing the command to the GSM
module, resulting in the non-transmission of the SMS.
42
Block Diagram of the Project
Upon locating the site of for the study to be conducted, the researchers continued to configure
and setup initial designs of the project. Several locations were chosen as the testing area in the
network block diagram. The process followed the methods of research.
Figure 13 Block Diagram of the Flood Monitoring and Indicating Device
43
The figure above shows the overall network block diagram of the flood monitoring and
indicating device with SMS alerts. It shows the connection of the components as well as its
wireless functions. Those are the Arduino Uno R3 Microcontroller, the HC-SR04 Ultrasonic
Sensor, Light Crystal Display (LCD) screen, LED lights, and SIM900 GSM/GPRS module.
The Arduino Uno R3 microcontroller board consists of 14 digital pins (Pin 0 to Pin 13)
and six (6) analog pins (Pin A0 to Pin A5), as well as a USB port, a power jack, and reset button
that are essential for the use in the system. Along with the microcontroller is the HC-SR04
ultrasonic sensor which has a range of 2 cm to 400 cm. The Arduino Uno microcontroller is
programmed with the ultrasonic sensor connected to it in order for the sensor to function and
measure distance. The sensor has a 5-volt operating voltage, and was thus connected to the 5V
and GND pins in the Arduino. Since the sensor initially measures the distance of a medium it
detects from the sensor itself, the researchers programmed the Arduino to instruct the ultrasonic
sensor to measure the inverse for an ideal measurement of water level. With this done, the
researchers then interfaced the Arduino microcontroller with the Light Crystal Display (LCD)
screen and LED lights. The Arduino will instruct the LCD to show the water level output based
on the measurement input the ultrasonic sensor read, while the Arduino instructs the LED lights
with respective colors to emit light based on the water level read by the ultrasonic sensor. The
actions of the ultrasonic sensor, LCD screen, and LED lights happen simultaneously based on the
instruction in the program given by the microcontroller. With these outputs fixed, the SIM900
GSM/GPRS module is then interfaced. Its function is to send SMS alerts based on the given
warning level. Just like the previous components, the Arduino microcontroller instructs the
GSM/GPRS module to send SMS alerts based on the measurements read by the ultrasonic
44
sensor. The recipients are added in the programming so that the module can send these message
to the designated receivers. This, as well, occurs simultaneously with the other components.
Functionality and Performance Test
Only when the warning system was successfully programmed did the experiments begin.
To test the functionality of the device, the researchers prepared a simulated environment.
Figure 15 Materials
Figure 15 presents the materials used for the experimentation of the flood warning
system: a container that was locally bought; a stand borrowed for the ultrasonic sensor to be
placed on; and metal rulers also borrowed for manual reading. The ultrasonic sensor as well as
the metal ruler is taped

Figureto16.1.
the Experimentation
stand while the container is simply
Figure 16.2. placed below it. In order to
Level Application
Figure 16 Testing of the Device
ensure that the placement of the sensor does not affect the readings negatively, an application
45
within a phone was used as a level. Some additional calibrations and final testing were made
before the experiments finally began. Figure 16 below shows how the experiment and the device
were generally set up.
Data Gathering and Procedure
For Ultrasonic Sensor
In the experiment, a specific set of procedures was followed to determine the accuracy of
the ultrasonic sensor in measuring water levels. Firstly, the container was filled up with water up
to the seven (7) cm mark on the container as seen in Figure 17.1. To validate the accuracy of the
ultrasonic sensor's readings, manual measurements were taken using a stainless-steel ruler at
seven (7) different spots shown in Figure 17.2, and each spot was measured three (3) times. After
taking the manual measurements, the vertical distance of the sensor was adjusted to 10 cm from
the maximum water level, and the horizontal distance was set to 25 cm from the container's wall
as seen in Figure 17.3. The ultrasonic sensor was then calibrated, and the sensor’s reading that
was shown in LCD was recorded three (3) times as seen in Figure 17.4. Then, the horizontal
distance of the sensor was adjusted to 12.5 cm from the wall and finally to zero (0) cm from the
wall. The ultrasonic sensor was calibrated for 12.5 cm and the zero (0) cm, and the sensor’s
reading for each was recorded three (3) times.
Figure 17.1 Pouring of Figure 17.2. Manual Figure 17.3 Sensor’s Figure 17.4 Sensor’s
46Placement Adjustment
Water Measurement Reading
Figure 17. Experiment Conduction

Next, the vertical distance of the sensor was adjusted to 20 cm and 30 cm from the
maximum water level. In each vertical distance adjustment, the horizontal distance was also
adjusted to zero (0) cm, 12.5 cm, and 25 cm away from the container’s wall, and the sensor’s
reading was recorded for three (3) times for each change in the distance of the sensor. Finally,
after recording all the measurements needed from the seven (7) cm of water, the container was
filled with water until it reached the 14 cm mark, as monitored by the ultrasonic sensor. The
process done on the seven (7) cm of water was repeated for the 14 cm, 21 cm, 28 cm, and 35 cm
of water, starting from taking the manual measurement of the water using a stainless-steel ruler
to the adjustment of the horizontal and vertical distance of the sensor, and finally, the calibration
and reading of the sensor were recorded.
For SMS
The flood monitoring device is calibrated to send an alert message to the researcher’s
phone the moment its ultrasonic sensor senses the water level in the container rising to seven (7)
cm and above. The researchers first adjusted the vertical distance of the ultrasonic sensor from
the bottom of the container to 45 cm, and then they adjusted the horizontal distance of the
ultrasonic sensor from the wall of the container by 25 cm. To start the experiment, the
researchers start by pouring water into the container until it reaches seven (7) cm. When the
water level reaches the seven (7) cm mark as presented by the flood monitoring device. The
researcher will then measure and record the time it takes for the flood monitoring device to send
the alert message, starting from the time the ultrasonic sensor senses the water level reaching
seven (7) cm until the researcher’s phone receives the alert message sent by the flood monitoring
device. This experiment will be done three (3) times to make the data more reliable.
47
Additionally, this experiment will be conducted in mountainous and low-lying areas to determine
if the location of the device can affect the SMS alert.
Data Analysis and Procedure
After the researchers organized the data collected from the experiment, the percentage
error (%error) is then calculated which determines the amount of error and accuracy of the water
level readings done through manual and through the ultrasonic sensor. This is calculated with the
absolute value between the difference of the actual value and the estimated value, then divided
by the actual value multiplied to 100 percent. This is represented by the equation:
|acutual value−estimated value|

×100 %
actual value
With regards to the experiment, the actual value is the manual reading while the
estimated value the reading output by the ultrasonic sensor. A One-way Analysis of Variance
(ANOVA) test is used to determine whether there is a statistically significant difference between
the means of the samples and is analyzed through the use of Statistical Package for Social
Sciences or SPSS. This is an application used by the researchers to easily apply the statistical
treatment and determine the outcome of the data analysis. Since the accuracy of the measurement
of the ultrasonic sensor is being tested, the researchers should acquire a result stating that the
difference between the means of the variables are not significant.
48
CHAPTER IV
PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION OF DATA
This section present the results of the experimentation based on the data gathered, as well
as the analyzation and discussion of these results.
Accuracy of Ultrasonic Sensor
Table 1. Percent (%) Error on Distance between the Maximum Water Level and Ultrasonic
Sensor
Distance of Ultrasonic Sensor from

10 20 30
Maximum Level (in cm)
Current Water Level (in cm)
7 0.34% 0.34% 0.34%
14 0.74% 0.74% 1.53%
21 0.05% 0.05% 0.05%
28 0.21% 0.21% 1.01%
35 0.02% 0.66% 0.66%
AVERAGE 0.27% 0.40% 0.72%
Table 1 summarizes the percentage error (%error) between the manual readings and the
readings of the ultrasonic sensor based on the distance of the said sensor from the maximum
water level which is 35 centimeters (cm). The averages of the 10, 20, and 30 cm distance from
the maximum level are 0.27%, 0.40%, and 0.72%, respectively. This is less than 0.05 level of
significance. Although the measurement read by the ultrasonic sensor is not fully accurate,
Andang et al. (2017) discovered that in the 37 experiments they conducted that when
measurements from the system are compared to the manual, the error is 0.75%. They concluded
that the accuracy measurement of the system is ‘quite good’ despite the measurement changes
due to the water surface and is not constant. In contrast, Kuantama, Mardjoko, and Saraswati
(2013) determined that the average error for and ultrasonic sensor in measuring distance is
3.74%, which is greater than that of Andang et al.
Table 2. Percent (%) Error on Distance of Ultrasonic Sensor from Wall
Distance of Ultrasonic Sensor from

0 12.5 25
Wall (in cm)
Current Water Level (in cm)
7 0.34% 0.34% 0.34%
14 1.53% 0.74% 0.74%
21 1.12% 0.48% 0.48%
28 1.40% 0.21% 0.19%
35 1.29% 0.34% 0.30%
AVERAGE 1.14% 0.42% 0.41%
50
Table 2, on the other hand, shows the %error between the manual readings and the
ultrasonic sensor reading with regards to the distance of the sensor from the wall (0cm, 12.5cm,
15cm). The error is the highest at 4.76% on the 14cm water level, 0cm away from the wall. The
error is the least at 0.19% at the 28cm water level with the sensor 25cm from the wall. The
average error for 0cm, 12.5cm, and 25cm distances from the wall are 1.14%, 0.42%, and 0.41%
respectively. From this, it clearly shows that the ultrasonic sensor, when placed zero (0) cm from
the wall, produced 1.14% of error. This means that there is a huge difference on the
measurement taken by the ultrasonic sensor and the actual measurement taken by the researchers.
On the other hand, the percent error is greatly reduced when it is placed at a distance of 12.5 cm.
from the wall, given a percent error of 0.41%. Given the data from the table, it implies that the
sensor is more effective at monitoring and indicating flood level at A distance of 25 cm from the
wall than in the distance of zero (0) cm. In the study conducted by Toa & Whitehead (2021), it
has been discovered that surfaces such as walls exhibit the strongest echo response when
confronted with the sensor. The results on 0cm column in Table 2 is slightly greater than the
0.75% error Andang et al. measured. Regardless, the rest of the percentage errors between the
means of the manual reading and output measurement of the ultrasonic sensor are below this
with consideration of the error Kuantama, Mardjoko, and Saraswati measured in their study.
51
Ultrasonic Sensor against Manual Reading
Table 3. ANOVA test between Ultrasonic Sensor and Manual Reading
Water Level (in cm) Level of Significance (at 0.05)
7 0.614
14 0.066
21 0.913
28 0.324
35 0.321
Table 3 evaluates whether or not there is a significant difference between the manual and
ultrasonic sensor readings using the One-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) test at 7cm, 14cm,
21cm, 28cm, and 35cm water levels. This is measured against 0.05 level of significance or at 5%
error.
It has the following hypothesis as follows:
Ho: There is no significant difference between the measurement readings of the manual
and ultrasonic sensor.
Ho : x ≥ p
52
Ha: There is a significant difference between the measurement readings of the manual and
ultrasonic sensor.
H a : x< p
where is x is the significance of the means tested while p is the level of significance for x
to be compared to which is 0.05. The researchers aim to accept the null hypothesis as a
significant difference indicates that there is an existing accuracy between the manual
measurements and the measurements done by the ultrasonic sensor, which is contradictory to the
results of Tables 1 and 2. Since the level of significance of the means on all 5 water levels are
greater than 0.05, then Ho is accepted. Therefore, there is no significant difference between the
measurements of the manual and ultrasonic sensor at 0.05 level of significance. Tolentino et al.
utilized a t-test in their study to determine if there is a significant difference between their
proposed automated method and conventional method of measuring flood level. This is
measured at a 0.01 level of significance and they concluded that there is no significant
difference, hence, their proposed automated method of measuring the water level is accurate.
This research utilized this study as basis for testing the accuracy and the presence of a significant
difference between the measurement read through manual and ultrasonic sensor.
Short Message Service (SMS) Speed
Table 4 shows the speed of the SMS sent to the mobile phone users in both low-lying and
mountainous areas. The average time it takes for an SMS alert from the device to be received by
the time the message is sent in a low lying area is 13.37 seconds (s) after three (3) trials. On the
53
other hand, it takes 13.24 s for the message to be received in a mountainous area. The difference
between the mean time in both areas is just 0.13 seconds which is considerable minimal.
Table 4. Speed of SMS
Areas Test 1 Test 2 Test 3 Average
Low-lying
12.84s 14.04s 13.24s 13.37s
(Brgy. Tabigue)
Mountainous
12.41s 13.18s 14.14s 13.24s
(Brgy. Ogbak)
In the study of Yumang et al. (2017), the average time it takes for the SMS to be received
is just around two (2) seconds as well as the time sent. This was determined through a sending
time test. Indrasari et al. (2018), on the other hand tested the speed and reliability of the SMS
using 5 cellphones and determined the shortest and longest time the message was sent which was
8.2 seconds and 33.3 seconds, respectively. Though it only takes two (2) seconds for Yumang et
al. to send SMS from their device while Table 4 shows that it takes around 13 seconds, the
location of the area where the SMS is tested is remote and should be considered. Previous
research demonstrated that the time it takes for an SMS to be sent to the user is two (2) seconds
(Yumang et al., 2017). The aim of this research was to build on these previous findings and
54
further examine the effectiveness of the SMS. Specific objectives of this study was to determine
the speed of the SMS to be received by the user after being sent by the device in order to
determine the reliability of an SMS alert system in a flood monitoring and indicating device.
Unlike the previous studies, the researchers found that it takes an estimated average of 13
seconds for an SMS to be sent in both mountainous and low-lying areas prone to flooding. This
may be due to the remoteness of the area under study which falls to signal strength in those
areas. Future research incorporating proper methods of testing and measuring the speed of the
SMS sent, data with regards to the signal strength on the area, type of phone used that functions
as the receiver of the SMS, as well as the basis for referring when the message has been sent,
would help clarify the findings.
55
CHAPTER V
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSION, AND RECOMMENDATIONS
This chapter aims to present the summary of findings as answers to the aforementioned
problems in Chapter I. The conclusions that have been drawn from the findings are also
presented in the same way immediately followed by recommendations of this research.
Summary of the Findings
The general intention of this study is to develop a warning system that monitors and
indicates flood level through SMS alert. Specifically, this sought to answer the following
questions: (1) Is the flood warning system capable of monitoring and indicating flood level; (2)
Is there a significant difference between the manual reading and detected water level of
ultrasonic sensor; (3) At what distance between the maximum water level and the ultrasonic
sensor is the device effective: (a) 10 cm, (b) 20 cm, (c) 30 cm; (4) At what distance from the wall
will the ultrasonic sensor be the most effective: (a) 0 cm, (b) 12.5 cm, (c) 25 cm; and (5) At what
geographic location does the GSM will be the most effective in sending SMS: (a) Low-laying
areas, (b) Mountainous areas.
This study employed an experimental approach in developing a device with an intention
of indicating and monitoring flood levels and incorporating an SMS alert. Additionally, the study
utilized a Single Group Design to assess the accuracy and the potential of the device. To further
examine the warning system’s reliability, the researchers applied interventions for the device’s
sensor, which were observed and measured three (3) times.

Furthermore, after the collection of data, the researchers used percentage error to identify
the amount of error and accuracy of the water level readings of ultrasonic sensor when compared
to manual reading. Moreover, the researchers also utilized ANOVA to determine if there is a
statistically significant difference between the means of the sample and is analyzed through
SPSS.
After analyzing the gathered data, the study found that the reading of water level through
ultrasonic sensor and manual reading have no significant difference.
As for the placement of ultrasonic sensor, the results of the study showed that the device
is most effective at 10 cm distance of ultrasonic sensor from the maximum water level. It is also
found that the ultrasonic sensor is deemed to be most effective when placed at 25 cm distance
from the wall based on the results.
Meanwhile, the SMS alert of the device is effective in both low-laying and mountainous area.
Based on the result of the study, there is a minimal difference between the time it took to receive
the message on mountainous and low-laying areas. Thus, the location has negligible effect on the
speed of receiving the SMS alert.
57
Conclusion
Based on the results of the study, the researchers concluded that the flood monitoring and
indicating warning device with SMS alert is effective.
The researchers hereby concluded that there is no significant difference between the
manual measurement readings and the ultrasonic sensor measurement readings at 0.05 level of
significance. This proves the accuracy of the ultrasonic sensor when measuring the water level.
This were further proven given the percentage errors between the measurements of the manual
method and the ultrasonic sensor. The %error were also significant at 0.05 level of significance –
supporting the accuracy of the ultrasonic sensor. Several factors were considered such as
distance of the ultrasonic sensor from the wall and the maximum water level (35 cm). With a
total of 240 trials, the researchers were able to determine the effectiveness of the sensor at
different tested conditions.
The Short Message Service (SMS) alert is concluded as effective in providing alerts to
the recipients with specific warning level associated with the current water level it has been
adopted. The average speed it takes for an SMS to be received on both mountainous and low-
lying areas is around 13 seconds, with only milliseconds of a difference – therefore, both are just
as fast. This is given that both areas are remote. Given that the SMS can be sent in a short period
of time, it is concluded that the SMS alert is an effective part of the flood monitoring and
warning system.
58
The study’s findings can help identify and give early warning of the flood risk as well as
its monitoring through the use of an SMS alert system. The measurements provided by the
ultrasonic sensor provides accurate data with minimal error for the end users which makes them
informed about the current water level around that area.
Recommendations
This part states the recommendations of the researchers according to the aforementioned
conclusions:
1. Based on the findings, the result of the study provides that this prototype is
effective and can be viable for potential use. Therefore, the researchers
recommend further review of the flood warning system in terms of its abilities to
monitor and indicate flood levels. It is advised to test the system under different
situations and conditions such as different temperature exposure and weather to
determine how accurate and precise the device is. In addition, researchers advise
the use of other available technologies, such as radar-based sensors, satellite-
based sensors, water level gauges, the Internet of Things (IoT), and others to
explore variability and identify potential differences.
2. The researchers in this study recommend doing research on the two methods in
order to find out the difference between a manual reading and the measured water
level using an ultrasonic sensor. This may involve testing in a specific place in
which both manual and sensor-based measurements are collected at the same
time, analyzing the data, and then contrasting the results of the experiment. Most
59
importantly, any factors that might have an impact on the validity and reliability
of the readings of the sensor must be considered, including the position of the
sensor, testing, or its surrounding conditions. Those surrounding conditions
involve the leveling of the material where the water will be put as to minimize
varying manual water level measurements on different sides of the container.
3. Based on the results of the study, 20 cm must be maintained between the
maximum water level and the ultrasonic sensor. This distance seems to achieve a
good balance between ensuring accurate readings and minimizing potential errors
caused by external factors such as wave reflections, air bubbles, or water
turbulence. While 10cm may provide more accurate readings, it may also lead to
more errors and instability, especially in less-than-ideal water conditions.
Provided the existing external conditions of a realistic flooding event, the
researchers recommend to simulate those conditions and do more testing when it
comes to those aforementioned to further determine the reliability of the
measurements provided by the ultrasonic sensor.
4. The ultrasonic sensor functions best at a distance of 25 cm from the wall. This
distance appears to strike a good balance between minimizing potential errors due
to reflections and maximizing sensor reading accuracy. If the sensor is placed too
close to the wall (0cm), signal interference and reflection from the wall may result
in inaccurate readings. The difference between the percentage errors of the 12.5
cm and 25 cm is only 0.01%. With these findings, the researchers cannot
indefinitely conclude that there is a relationship when it comes to the distance of
the ultrasonic sensor from the wall. It is suggested that a statistical test shall be
60
used to determine if there is a potential relationship between the distance of the
sensor from the wall through a much larger sample size for a normally distributed
data. In addition, the ultrasonic sensor shall also be tested with no external
obstruction except for the water level it detects.
5. Since this study appears to show that there is no significant difference in the time
it takes for an SMS alert to be received in a low-lying area and a mountainous
area, conduct more testing in different areas and under varied conditions, such as
weather conditions, for a better result. Looking into other aspects such as network
coverage, signal strength, and type of phone may also be helpful and influence the
time it takes for an SMS alert to be received. These factors can provide a more
thorough and significant analysis.
6. As for the future researchers, since the device implemented has its weaknesses
and limitations, conduct more thorough analysis about the existing flood level
warning system device with automatic SMS alert. Conduct in-depth analysis on
the sensor, accurate distance of the sensor. Look into different aspects that may
affect the SMS alert to be received. In terms of experimenting on the water level,
it is recommended to conduct study on other factors affecting the water and the
accuracy of the sensor.
61

Final Paper 1

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Final Paper 1

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Republic of the Philippines

Department of the Education

MONITORING AND INDICATING FLOOD LEVEL THROUGH WARNING SYSTEM

A Mixed Method Research

Presented to MRS. RIENA I. RODRIGUEZ

Senior High School Department

Marinduque National High School

Isok 1, Boac Marinduque

In partial fulfillment of the requirements in

Capstone Research Project subject

Henri Louis D. Del Prado

Lyresh Ann L. Navilgas

Sairah Jeana J. Jalimbawa

Edward John S. Luz

Lindsay Mariae O. Luarca

Angela Beatrize A. Fellizar

Grade 12- STEM Eiffel

Preliminaries Page No.

Title Page …………………………………………………………………………… i

Table of Contents ………………………………………………………………… ii

List of Tables …………………………………………………………………….. vi

List of Figures ……………………………………………………………………. vi

THE PROBLEM AND ITS SETTING ……………………………………. 1

Background of the Study …………………………………………… 3

Conceptual Framework …………………………………………... 7

Statement of the Problem ………………………………………… 8

Research Hypothesis ……………………………………………….. 9

Scientific Hypothesis ………………………………………………. 9

Significance of the Study ………………………………………….. 10

Scope and Delimitations of the Study ……………………………… 11

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES ……………….. 14

Monitoring and Indicating Flood Level ……………………………. 14

Warning System …………………………………………………… 17

Short Message Service (SMS) Alert System ………………………. 19

Definition of Terms ………………………………………………… 24

METHODS OF RESEARCH AND PROCEDURE ………………………. 26

Research Design …………………………………………………… 26

Research Locale …………………………………………………… 26

Research Instruments and Procedures ……………………………... 29

Hardware Construction of the Flood Monitoring and

Overall Design of the Project ………………………………. 30

Electronics Assembly and Circuit Design ………………… 31

Programming of Flood Monitoring and Warning System …………. 33

Individual Programming of HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Sensor ….. 34

Programming Light Crystal Display (LCD), LED Lights, of

Programming Ultrasonic Sensor and SIM900 GSM/GPRS 36

Combining Sketches of Separated Coding ………………… 37

Operational Flowchart of the System ………………………………. 38

Block Diagram of the Project ………………………………………. 40

Functionality and Performance Test ……………………………….. 42

Data Gathering Procedure …………………………………………. 43

For Ultrasonic Sensor …………………................................ 43

For SMS ……………………………………………………. 44

Data Analysis Procedure …………………………………………… 45

PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION OF DATA .. 46

Accuracy of Ultrasonic Sensor …………………………………….. 46

Ultrasonic Sensor against Manual Reading ……………………… 49

Short Message Service (SMS) Speed ………………………………. 50

SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND

Summary of Findings …………………………………………….. 53

No. Title Page

Percent (%) Error on Distance between Maximum Water Level and

2 Percent (%) Error on Distance of Ultrasonic Sensor from Wall 47