Wollege university

College of engineering and technology

Department OF ELECTRICAL AND COMPUTER
ENGINEERING

STREAM: INDUSTRIAL CONTROL

TITLE: AUTOMATIC IRRIGATION SYSTEM using soil
moisture sensor

Name of the students ID №

Yerosan Jabessa ………………………………12/1226
Leta Amselu……………………………………12/737

ADVISOR: Mr. Firaol.k

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 DECLARATION
We do hereby declare that this thesis is our original work and that it has not been submitted partially;
or in full, by any other person for an award of a degree in any other university/institution. This thesis
entitled Automatic Irrigation System using soil moisture sensor being submitted by:

Name signature

1. Yerosan Jabessa ………………..

2. Leta Amselu ………………..

Head of the Department

Name:…………………………………………………………………………

Signature …………………………………………………………………….

Date:……………………………………………………………………………

Advisor

Name:…………………………………………………………………………….

Signature ……………………………………………………………………….

Date:……………………………………

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 CERTIFICATE
This is certify that project report entitled “Automatic Irrigation System soil moisture sensor’ ’this
work is carried out by Yerosan Jabessa and Leta Amselu Student in partial fulfillment of the
requirement for Bachelor degree by Electrical and computer Engineering Stream of Industrial control,
to Wollega University. This project result is the effort of each individual in group, except where stated
on the reference. All source and reference is acknowledged by appropriate mention and precise
references that attached.

Signature of advisor _____________

Place_________________________

Date__________________________

Examiners Signature

1.___________________ ___________________

2.___________________ ____________________

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 ACKNOWLDGEMENT
First and foremost, we would like to acknowledge the Almighty God for giving our physical and
spiritual strength during our studies. Sincere thanks also goes to the head Department of Electrical and
Computer Engineering. Next to this we would like to appreciate the advices and the support we received
from our honorable advisor captain Mr. Firaol we are deeply thankful for his dedication and
commitment in realizing our project finalization. all my lecturers in the University of Wollega including
the supporting staff for the impact they have had to our life and also for providing the conductive and
enabling environment for learning critical comments and valuable advice that guided us immensely
throughout our project work and also in the lectures they undertook with and within the five years
course work. Finally, we extend our appreciation to our family and friends for the support they offered
us during our study at the University. Further, we would like to thank all the laboratory and
administrative staff members of Department of Electrical Engineering for their humble cooperation
and support. We would also take this opportunity to give thanks to all others who have helped us
throughout our project and study at our university.

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Abstract
Farming can be done using various new technologies to yield higher growth of the crops and their more
production. The objectives of this paper is to avoid wastage of water and increase irrigation efficiency
by using PLC based irrigation system with the help of soil moisture sensor. The project presented here
will water plants regularly in accordance with the state of soil moisture.
The circuit comprises sensor parts which are water mark moisture sensor is inserted in the soil to sense
whether the soil is wet or dry. The PLC program monitors the sensors and when moisture sensor senses
the dry condition then the circuit will switch on the motor at which the pressure sensor on normal
conditions and it will switch off the motor when the moisture sensor senses the dryness of the soil at
which one or two of the factors are in abnormal conditions. The PLC does the above job when it
receives the signal from the sensors.
It also improves the traditional irrigation system in Ethiopia enabling the irrigation system to have high
efficiency and low water usage. The existing irrigation system is tedious, time consuming and very
wasteful in water usage.

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 CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Introduction
In developing countries like Ethiopia automatic irrigation system is not much familiar rather than
using labor system and it is not much effective and all the system is controlled by humans and if it
is dry or moisture content the person cannot exactly detect or identify It .Appropriate soil water
level is a necessary pre-requisite for optimum plant growth. Water is a basic component of all
known life on Earth .Water can both sustain life in correct quantities and threaten life when it is
not available. Water as a result is a very precious natural resource that must not be wasted .Now a
day’s economical usage of water resource is becoming a critical issue due to its limitation & climate
change. Water is the main input of agricultural activities, construction, industries etc. thus, it should
be managed by technology.

Using Automatic irrigation system helps to avoid wastage of water. If too much water is applied
the problems arise consisting of runoff, erosion, waste of water and deceased plant life. If too little
water is applied different problems arise such as grass burnout. The key in irrigation is striking to
correct balance for optimal plant life with optimal use of water. An irrigation controller is a device
to operate automatic irrigation systems. Soil moisture sensor is a sensor connected to an irrigation
system controller that measure soil moisture content in the active root zone. The PLC is used to
control the whole system by monitoring the sensors and when sensors sense the dry condition then
the PLC will send command to relay the contacts of which are used to switch on the motor and it
will switch off the motor, when adequate moisture is detected in the soil. The PLC does the above
job as it receives the signal from the moisture sensors and these signals operate under the control
of software which is stored in the PLC. Besides, the automatic pumping also pumping irrigation
system reduces the involvement level human labor in the irrigational activities. Water being an
essential element for life sustenance, there is the necessity to avoid its undue usage. Irrigation is a
dominant consumer of water. This calls for the need to regulate water supply for irrigation purposes.
Fields should neither be over-irrigated nor under-irrigated. Over time, systems have been
implemented towards realizing this objective of which automated processes are the most popular
as they allow information to be collected at high frequency with less labor requirements. Soil
moisture sensors are sophisticated devices like sensors measure some physical property that is
related with soil moisture. Some portable sensing tools are pushed into the soil directly or into an

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access tube planted in the soil. Other systems rely on buried sensors that are wired to a fixed meter.
Being an automated process, this provides accurate results and is highly efficient. Ethiopia has been
following traditional agricultural method. Currently the agriculture is on transformation. That
means, modern technological finding are going to be involved. The government is motivating
irrigational agriculture. So there will be a great deal atomization of the agriculture sector. The water
pumps used by the farmer are fuel consuming. Automatic pumping system is also helps to minimize
wastage of water whereas the traditional method has high pumping of water beyond the crop
requirement. By using automatic pumping system, the available water can be used to cultivate more
lands than the recent. Generally there is technological gap that the country would get benefit from.

1.2 Statement of the problem

Irrigation of plants usually a very time consuming activity; to be done in reasonable short time a lots
of human labor should be involved. In a big farm or in a nursery, usually need many employ of worker
involved. Hence, if farmers are still using traditional irrigation system, there will obtain human work
force. Therefore, need to spend money to pay the worker's salary which can be high and expensive.
Otherwise, it is difficult to verify the effect moisturizing in the soil .Using technologies the number of
worker or the time required to water is reduced. Water has been used excessively for irrigation,
traditionally. The plant/crop is watered beyond its needs, which result massive wastage of the limited
water resource. It also limits the farm to be cultivated using the available water resource. An affordable,
convenient and flexible system is much needed because different soil has different needs and level of
moisture. Controlling by PLC is used to assist the understanding on how that system can control the
balance of moisture properly.

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1.3 Objective of the Study
1.3.1 General Objective
The main objective of this project is to design and constructing small-scale automatic irrigation system
using soil moisture sensor and this level of sensing is done by soil moisture sensor which detects the
moisture level and also provides moisture level to various crops are controlled by PLC .
1.3.1 Specific objectives:
 To monitor and regulate the moisture level of a soil sample mainly aimed to provide to the
needs of technologically ignorant rural farmers.
 Minimize human intervention in agricultural irrigation industry.
 To develop a cost effective
 To increase irrigation water utilization efficiency.
 To enhance the transfer of irrigation technologies and management alternatives emphasizing
economic and environmental benefits.
1.4 Scope of the study
This project will commence with an over view of the problem encountered with an automatic irrigation
system using soil moisture sensing. The primary goal of an automatic irrigation system is to control the
fluctuation of moisture sensor by PLC and give information to controller and the programmable logic
controller is ON and OFF the motor based on the moisture level sensor. PLC is the main issue and
effect used to develop a program for automatically controlling watering pump process.
1.5 limitation
Fields should neither be over-irrigated nor under-irrigated. Over time, systems have been implemented
towards realizing this objective of which automated processes are the most popular as they allow
information to be collected at high frequency with less labor requirements.
The principle can be extended to a higher or large scale farms and small scale Ethiopian farmers land
irrigation for farmers specially who live in a place where water is very scares and water can be stored
in well and/or there is another water body like lake, river and etc. Soil moisture sensor have limited life
after installation due to the effect of the plastic components in hot, arid climate when exposed to
ultraviolet.

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1.6 Significance of the project
 Minimize human intervention in agricultural irrigation industry.
 To increase irrigation water utilization efficiency.
 To enhance the transfer of irrigation technologies and management alternatives
emphasizing economic and environmental benefits.

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 CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Introduction
Literature review is a process to find, search, collect, analyze and concluded all debates and issues
raised for developing the final product of the project. Besides, it also provide examples of what other
experts have or researcher has found in the last time and that idea could be a benefit for the next
development process. That information will use to overcome the current problems and try to investigate
the solution to give the best result for the project. The literature reviews focuses on the various theory
and basic computer engineering knowledge used in the project. The sources of the information were
grab from the books, magazine, articles, web pages, or testing result. This discusses the overall project
theory and concept. The purpose of this is to explain the perspective and method that is used in previous
research or project and to classify how much this project is related with those research and theory [4].
Moreover, this Project will the theory and concept used to solve the project problem [1]. Theoretical
understanding is very important as a guide in doing any kind of research. In developing countries like
Ethiopia automatic irrigation system using sensor is not much familiar rather than using labor system
and it is not much effective and all the system is controlled by humans and if it is dry or moisture
content the person cannot exactly detect or identify it [2]. In our project we are trying to see so many
papers deals about automatic irrigation system using sensors [3]. It is very expensive for rural areas
and for irrigation purpose compared with its profit. The other paper what we have seen is that it uses a
micro controller to control the whole system bases on the program that the users enter according to the
moisture content [2].
The problem of previous project is, that not suitable for illiterate people and it requires a high
maintenance and also high cost. After we observe this problems we are interested to design cheap,
simple and it requires minimum maintenance and we use a gypsum block instead of using expensive
moisture sensor and we are using PLC in order to control the whole system rather than micro controller
[5].

This section summarizes the literature background of our work connected with automatic irrigation
system using soil moisture sensor and the benefits of automatic controller. We cover several papers to
serve the purpose and related work in the literature and theory’s.

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 CHAPTER THREE
SYSTEM BLOACKDIAGRAM

Figure 2.1 block diagram of the project

3.1 Material component

The materials we have used in our paper are different books, journals, and thesis and ongoing projects
in automatic irrigation system. From this we are going to select appropriate principle operation of PLC
programming, soil moisture sensor, dc relay, pressure sensor and water pump based on their application
in automatic irrigation system using soil moisture sensor.
The other material we have been using for our simulation is Siemen PLC/ logo software.

Hardware Components
The hard ware is a physical, touchable, material part of a computer or other system. The
hardware components are the backbone of the system. Our paper contains the following components;
 Soil moisture sensor
 pressure sensor
 Pump motor /DC motor
 DC Relay
 Indicator (alarm for bell)

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3.1.1 Relay 5DC
This is an electromagnetic switch which is activated when a current is applied to it. A relay
uses small currents to switch huge currents. Most relays use principle of electromagnetism to
operate but still other operating principles like solid state are also used[6] .A contactor is a
type of relay which can handle a high power required to control an electric motor or other
loads directly. Solid state relays have no moving parts and they use semiconductor devices to
perform switching.

Figure 2. 5VDC Coil Relay

Relays are switches and thus terminologies applied to switches are also applied to relays. A
relay switches one or more poles, each of whose contacts can be thrown by energizing the coil
in one of three ways.

• NO contacts connect the circuit when the relay is activated; the circuit is
disconnected when the relay is inactive.

• NC contacts disconnect the circuit when the relay is activated; the circuit is
connected when the relay is inactive.

• CO or double-throw (DT), contacts control two circuits: one normally-open contact

and one normally-closed contact with a common terminal.

A contact relay switches one or more poles each of whose contacts can be thrown by energizing
the coil in three ways namely; normally open(NO), normally closed(NC) or change over(CO).

Just like manual switches the relay switch part is available in various configurations. Double
pole, double throw (DPDT) configuration is most common configuration. DPDT means that

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the relay separately controls two switches that work together. Both switches have a normally
NO and NC contacts. Other commonly used configurations are:

• SPST – Single Pole Single Throw. This relay configuring has four terminals. Two of
the terminals are coil terminals.

• SPDT – Single Pole Double Throw. This configuring has five terminals. One of the
terminals is a common terminal which connects to either of the two others.

Figure 2.20 Inside a SPST relay

• DPST – Double Pole Single Throw. This relay configuring has six terminals. It is
equivalent to SPST in that it is actuated by a single coil.

A simple example of relay application is where a 9V DC circuit can be used to turn on/off a 230v
AC lamp.

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 Figure 2.21Simple relay interfacing

Whenever a relay is driven from a circuit that has delicate components such as integrated
circuits or transistors, a diode is always included across the relay coil to prevent the relay from
damaging the circuit.

3.1.3 Water Pump

Different types of applications require different types of pumps. Pumps are selected based on system
requirements, discharge pressure required, flow capacity required, and availability of space [11]. The
types of pumps most often found in water distribution systems are:
 Centrifugal pumps,
 Vertical turbine pumps and
 Submersible pumps.
Centrifugal pumps are the most common type used in water distribution. Centrifugal pumps have a
circular “fan/turbine shaped” structure called an impeller that is mounted on a centrally supported
structure call the shaft. The motor rotates the shaft and can be powered by electricity or diesel fuel.
Water enters at an opening in the center called the suction. The rotating impeller imparts a high
velocity to the water, and it is circulated and thrown outward.

Advantages:
 Wide range of capacities
 Uniform flow at constant speed and head
 Low to moderate initial cost
 Simple construction
 Ability to adapt to several drive types
e.g Motor, engine, or turbine

 Moderate to high efficiency at optimal operation

 No need for internal lubrication
Disadvantages:
 Efficiency is limited to a narrow range of discharge flows and heads

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  Low capacity that is greatly depended on discharge pressure
 Generally no self-priming ability
 Potential for impeller to be damaged by abrasive matter in water
Vertical turbine pumps are most often used at raw water intakes and at booster stations in the
distribution system. In vertical turbine pumps, the water flows vertically through a channel or
uniform cross-sectional area. The impeller is positioned in the center along the axis and the blades of
the impeller are shaped so that the water flows in a radial direction.
Advantages:
Uniform flow at constant speed and head
 Simple construction
 Low noise level
 Small footprint
 Ability to adapt to several drive types
E.g motor, engine, or turbine

 Moderate to high efficiency at optimal operation

Disadvantages:
 High initial cost
 High repair costs
 Efficiency is limited to a narrow range of discharge flows and heads
 Inability to pump water containing any suspended matter
Submersible pumps are placed below the water level and are used mostly for pumping groundwater
from wells. The pump is basically a multi-stage centrifugal pump and the impellers of the pump are
mounted on a vertical shaft. The pump is driven by an electric motor placed adjacent to the pump and
is constructed for submerged operation.
Pumps help businesses and individuals move liquids and gases through the use of mechanical action.
From this three major groups of pumps submersible pump is more important than the others.
A submersible pump (being represented by DC motor) was a device used to move or pulls water out
of a well or a pond and displaces it volume by physical or mechanical action as shown in the figure. It
is most considered as the heart of irrigation system. Before selecting an irrigation pump, a careful and
complete inventory of the conditions under which the pump will operated was considered.
A DC motor as shown in Figure below is an electric motor driven by a direct current (DC)

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3.1.1 Electrical Motors

Industrial motors come in based on the application. These variations are suitable for many different
applications; naturally some types of motors are more suited for certain application than other
motor types.

The common types of motors are;

• AC motor
• DC motor
• Brushless DC motors
• Servo motors
• Brushed DC motors
• Brushless AC servo motors
• stepper motors
• Linear motors
DC Motor

DC motors are one of the earliest motor designs and it is a motor of choice in the majority of
reliable speed and torque applications. The reason is that DC motors are in general much more
adaptable to adjustable speed service than are AC motors due to its simplicity in control.

There are two parameters to be considered in controlling the movements of a DC motor.

1. Direction
2. Speed
The first thing that can be controlled in a motor is its direction of rotation. Direction of the motor
can be controlled by controlling the polarity of the current flowing through it. Usually a DC motors
are driven by famous H-Bridge circuits made up of either transistors or the buffers or any other
suitable methods.

Controlling the speed of the motor is another important area to be considered. The speed of motor
is directly proportional to the DC voltage applied across its terminals. Hence, if we control the
voltage applied across its terminal we actually control its speed.

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A PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) wave can be used to control the speed of the motor. Here the
average voltage given or the average current flowing through the motor will change depending on
the ON and OFF time of the pulses controlling the speed of the motor i.e. the duty cycle of the
wave controls its speed.

3.1.4 Permanent magnet DC motor

For this project we have used PMDC (Permanent Magnet DC motor) with rated voltage of 24.A
magnetic field in DC motor is created in the stator by either of the following two means.

• permanent magnet
• Electromagnetic winding
If the field is created by permanent magnet the motor is called permanent DC motor (PMDC) and
if it is created by electromagnetic windings, the motor is called wound DC motor. Today, due to
cost effectiveness and reliability, the PMDC motor is the motor of choice for applications up to
3HP.

The torque production is due to the interactions of the axial current carrying armature and the magnetic
flux produced by permanent magnet of the stator.

As flux per pole in PMDC motor cannot be controlled these are not used as dc generators. It is
speed and torques is controlled by through the adjustment of armature voltage applied to the motor
terminals. The circuit model or equivalent circuit of a PMDC motor is shown figure below

Figure 3.5: Circuit model of PMDC motor

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As field flux in PMDC motor is provided by permanent magnets the field winding is not shown in
the circuit model of this motor

In CDC motors; the generated or counter electromagnetic force is given by

Ea=Ka∅𝜔m (2.1)

And electromagnetic torque is given by equation

Te=Ka Ia (2.2)

In a PMDC motor; flux ( ) is constant and as a result; above equations can be reduced to

Ea=Km m (2.3)

Where Km=Ka is known as speed-voltage constant or torque constant.

Its value depends up on the number of field poles armature conductors etc.

From the equivalent circuit shown in the above gives

Vt=Ea+Iara=Km m+Iara (2.4)

Vt-Iara=Km m

Or m= (Vt-Iara)/Km (2.5)

Since the flux is constant so speed of the PMDC cannot be controlled above base speed. The only
way to control the speed of PMDC motor is by varying the terminal voltage, using rheostats or
power electronics converter.

Working principle

These motors are usually designed to run on 6v, 12v, or 24v dc supply obtained either from batteries
or regulated dc sources. In such motors torque is produced by the interaction between the axial
current carrying rotor conductors and the magnetic flux produced by the permanent magnets.

Performance

Their speed-torque curve is straight line which makes this motor ideal for a servomotor. Moreover,
input current increases linearly with the load torque. The efficiency of such motors is higher as
compared to wound-field dc motors due to the absence of field copper loss.

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 Figure 3.6 speed-torque relationship of PMDC

Speed control

Since flux remains constant, speed of a PMDC motor cannot be controlled by using flux control
method. The only way to control its speed is to vary the armature voltage with the help of an
armature rheostat or electrically by using choppers. Consequently such motors are found in systems
where speed control below base speed is required.

Advantage of PMDC motor

1.In very small ratings, use of permanent magnet excitation results in lower manufacturing cost.

2.In many cases of a PMDC motor is smaller in size than a wound-field dc motor of equal power
rating.
3.Since field excitation current is not required, the efficiency of these motor is generally higher
than that of the wound-field motors.

4.Low voltage PMDC motors produce less air noise.

5.When designed for low voltage (12v or less), these motors produce very little radio and TV
interference.

Disadvantage of PMDC motor

A motor serious disadvantage is that the permanent magnets can be demagnetized by armature reaction
MMF causing the motor to become inoperative.

Demagnetization can result from;

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 • Improper design
• Excessive armature current
• Improper brush shift
• Temperature effect

3.1.4 Programmable logic controllers (PLC)

Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), also referred to as programmable controllers, are in the
computer family [1]. They are used in commercial and industrial applications. A PLC monitors inputs,
makes decisions based on its program, and controls outputs to automate a process or machine [1].
PLCs consist of input modules or points, a Central Processing Unit (CPU), and output modules or
points. An input accepts a variety of digital or analog signals from various field devices (sensors) and
converts them into a logic signal that can be used by the CPU. The CPU makes decisions and executes
control instructions based on program instructions in memory. Output modules convert control
instructions from the CPU into a digital or analog signal that can be used to control various field devices
(actuators) [2]. A programming device is used to input the desired instructions. These instructions
determine what the PLC will do for a specific input. An operator interface device allows process
information to be displayed and new control parameters to be entered. [3]

Input CPU Output

Module Central processing Module

Unit

Programming Operator

Device Interface

Figure 2.1: PLC operation block diagram

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 Advantages of PLCs
The same, as well as more complex tasks can be done with a PLC. Wiring between devices and relay
contacts is done in the PLC program. Hard-wiring, though still required to connect field devices, is less
intensive. Modifying the application and correcting errors are easier to handle. It is easier to create and
change a program in a PLC than it is to wire and rewire a circuit [1]. Following are just a few of the
advantages of PLCs:
• Smaller physical size than hard-wire solutions.
• Easier and faster to make changes.
• PLCs have integrated diagnostics and override functions.
• Diagnostics are centrally available.
• Applications can be immediately documented.
• Applications can be duplicated faster and less expensively.
The language of PLCs consists of a commonly used set of terms; many of which are unique to PLCs.
In order to understand the ideas and concepts of PLCs, an understanding of these terms is necessary.
Sensor
A sensor is a device that converts a physical condition into an electrical signal for use by the PLC.
Sensors are connected to the input of a PLC. A pushbutton is one example of a sensor that is connected
to the PLC input. An electrical signal is sent from the pushbutton to the PLC indicating the condition
(open/ closed) of the pushbutton contacts[3].
Actuators
Actuators convert an electrical signal from the PLC into a physical condition. Actuators are connected
to the PLC output. A motor starter is one example of an actuator that is connected to the PLC output.
Depending on the output PLC signal the motor starter will either start or stop the motor.
Discrete Input
A discrete input also referred to as a digital input, is an input that is either in an ON or OFF condition.
Pushbuttons, toggle switches, limit switches, proximity switches, and contact closures are examples of
discrete sensors which are connected to the PLCs discrete or digital inputs. In the ON condition a
discrete input may be referred to as logic 1 or logic high. In the OFF condition a discrete input may be
referred to as logic 0 or a logic low.

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 Figure 2.2: discrete inputs [2]
A Normally Open (NO) pushbutton is used in the following example. One side of the pushbutton is
connected to the first PLC input. The other side of the pushbutton is connected to an internal 24 VDC
power supply. Many PLCs require a separate power supply to power the inputs. In the open state, no
voltage is present at the PLC input. This is the OFF condition. When the pushbutton is depressed, 24
VDC is applied to the PLC input. This is the ON condition[4].

Figure : logic ON/OFF [2]

Analog Inputs

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An analog input is an input signal that has a continuous signal. Typical analog inputs may vary from 0
to 20 milliamps, 4 to 20 milliamps, or 0 to 10 volts.
Discrete Outputs
A discrete output is an output that is either in an ON or OFF condition. Solenoids, contactor coils, and
lamps are examples of actuator devices connected to discrete outputs. Discrete outputs may also be
referred to as digital outputs. In the following example, a lamp can be turned on or off by the PLC
output it is connected to[5].
Analog Outputs
An analog output is an output signal that has a continuous signal. The output may be as simple as a 0-
10 VDC level that drives an analog meter.
CPU
The central processor unit (CPU) is a microprocessor system that contains the system memory and is
the PLC decision making unit. The CPU monitors the inputs and makes decisions based on
instructions held in the program memory. The CPU performs relay, counting, timing, data
comparison, and sequential operations[7].

Figure 2.4: microcontroller CPU of PLC [2]

Programming
A program consists of one or more instructions that accomplish a task. Programming a PLC is simply
constructing a set of instructions. There are several ways to look at a program such as ladder logic,
statement lists, or function block diagrams.

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 Ladder Logic
Ladder logic (LAD) is one programming language used with PLCs. Ladder logic uses components that
resemble elements used in a line diagram format to describe hard-wired control.
 Ladder Logic Diagram
The left vertical line of a ladder logic diagram represents the power or energized conductor. The output
element or instruction represents the neutral or return path of the circuit. The right vertical line, which
represents the return path on a hard-wired control line diagram, is omitted. Ladder logic diagrams are
read from left-to-right, top-to-bottom. Rungs are sometimes referred to as networks. A network may
have several control elements, but only one output coil[6].

Figure 2.5: ladder diagram [2]

In the example program shown example I0.0, I0.1 and Q0.0 represent the first instruction combination.
If inputs I0.0 and I0.1 are energized, output relay Q0.0 energizes. The inputs could be switches,
pushbuttons, or contact closures. I0.4, I0.5, and Q1.1 represent the second instruction combination. If
either input I0.4 or I0.5 is energized, output relay Q0.1 energizes.
Statement list
A statement list (STL) provides another view of a set of instructions. The operation, what is to be done,
is shown on the left. The operand, the item to be operated on by the operation, is shown on the right. A
comparison between the statement list shown below, and the ladder logic shown on the previous page,
reveals a similar structure. The set of instructions in this statement list perform the same task as the
ladder diagram.

Function Block Diagrams

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Function Block Diagrams (FBD) provides another view of a set of instructions. Each function has a
name to designate its specific task. Functions are indicated by a rectangle. Inputs are shown on the left-
hand side of the rectangle and outputs are shown on the right-hand side. The function block diagram
shown below performs the same function as shown by the ladder diagram and statement list.

3.1.5. Sensors
A sensor is a device that converts a physical condition into an electrical signal for use by the PLC.
Sensors are connected to the input of a PLC. A pushbutton is one example of a sensor that is connected
to the PLC input. An electrical signal is sent from the pushbutton to the PLC indicating the condition
(open/closed) of the pushbutton contacts. Sensor is referred to in terms of controlling the operation of
something.
A sensor’s main function
is to measure a controlled variable in an accurate and continuous manner. In the manufacture industry,
we are typically measuring and controlling temperature, pressure, and humidity. The information
measured by the sensor must be gathered and processed, so that appropriate actions can be taken on
the controlled variable.
A limit switch is a sensor. The switch senses when its actuator is being pressed and sends an electrical
signal to the PLC input. The limit switch provides the PLC with a crude sense of touch. However, in
many cases, the PLC needs to sense something more sophisticated than a switch actuation. For these
applications, sensors are available that can sense nearly any parameter that may occur in a machine
environment. Fundamentally, sensor outputs are classified into two categories discrete (Sometimes
called digital, logic, or bang-bang) and proportional (sometimes called analog). Discrete sensors
provide a single logical output (a zero or one). For example a thermostat that operates the heating and
air conditioning in a home is a discrete sensor.[4]
I. SENSOR
Sensor A sensor is a device that converts a physical condition into an electrical signal for use by the
PLC. Sensors are connected to the input of a PLC. A pushbutton is one example of a sensor that is
connected to the PLC input. An electrical signal is sent from the pushbutton to the PLC indicating the
condition (open/ closed) of the pushbutton contacts.

26
Figure 3: Sensor connected to form potential divider arrangement to provide a voltage output in relation
to soil moisture levels
The parameter which is of importance is moisture content in the soil. A reliable indication of soil
moisture levels is provided by electrical resistance blocks. These are a cost-effective tool for effective
management of irrigation. They evaluate soil moisture tension by measuring the electrical resistance
between the two electrodes emerging out of the block. The blocks absorb and release moisture as the
soil wets and dries respectively. This electrical resistance is recorded with the help of a portable meter
that is attached to the wire leads coming out from the moisture sensors.
Instead of using commercially available sensors, effort has been made to build indigenous sensors with
the objective to make the project cost effective. For this model, we have used Sandy Loam from types
of soil in order to resistance for making the sensors.
Functional Description of Sensor:
1. For conversion of change in resistance to change in voltage, the sensor is connected with PLC but
the two of terminal soil moisture sensor insert to soil as resistivity level from minimum to maximum
divider arrangement. For example the maximum value for sandy loam soil is 700 kΩ is minimum 200
kΩ from here, respectively dry and wet.

2. It gives a voltage output corresponding to the conductivity of the soil. The conductivity of soil varies
depending upon the amount of moisture present in it. It increases with increase in the water content of
the soil. The higher the water content of the blocks, the lower the electrical resistance.

3. The voltage output is taken from the output terminal of this circuit.
The moisture sensor is immersed into the specimen soil whose moisture content is under test.
The soil was examined under three conditions:
 Dry condition:
The sensor is placed in the soil under dry conditions and embedded up to a fair depth of the soil. In dry
condition, as there is no conduction path between the two copper leads the sensor gives a high resistance

27
value (nearly 700 kΩ). The voltage output of the potential divider in this case ranges from 2.2 V to
lower optimum level (3 V).
 Optimum condition:
When water is added to the soil, it percolates through the successive layers of it and spreads across the
layers of soil due to capillary force. This increases the moisture content of the soil. Thus a conductive
path is established between the two copper leads. This leads to a decrease in resistance of sensor. The
optimum condition of the soil can be set manually depending on the type of soil.


 Excess wet condition:
With the increase in water content beyond the optimum level, there is drastic increase in the
conductivity of the soil and the sensor resistance is further decreased to around 50 kΩ. The voltage
output of the potential divider in this case ranges from upper optimum level (5 V) to 10 V.

2.5.1 Soil moisture sensors

A soil moisture sensor is a device that measures the volumetric water content (VWC) of soil.
Mathematically VWC, θ, is given as follows;

Equation 2-1: mathematical representation of VWC

Where: Vw is the water volume and VT is the total volume (soil volume + water volume) and ϴis
volumetric water content of soil.
Soil moisture sensors are classified according to how they measure the soil moisture content.
2.5.1.1 Soil Moisture calculation
Two methods are used in determining the volumetric water content (VWC); direct and indirect. The
direct method entails drying a known volume of soil in an oven and weighing it [4]. The direct method
of measuring VWC is done using the following mathematical notation:

Equation 2-2 Soil Moisture calculation

Where:

28
• Mwet is soil sample before drying in the oven
• Mdry is soil sample after drying in the oven
• ρw is water density
• Vb is the volume of soil sample before drying
Indirect method is based on correlating soil physical and chemical properties with water content. Three
techniques are used in this method namely: chemical titrations, geophysical sensing and satellite remote
sensing.
Chemical titration determines the moisture loss in sample soil after freeze drying or heating. Satellite
remote sensing uses microwave radiation to check on the difference in dielectric properties of dry and
wet soils. Geophysical sensing uses physical devices which are inserted in the soil to determine the soil
moisture content. Techniques used in this method include: electrical resistance, electrical conductivity,
soil dielectric, soil tension, TDR, FDR, soil capacitance among others.
2.5.1.2 Types of soil moisture sensors
A. Electrical resistance blocks Sensors
These sensors are made up of two electrodes made from a porous substance like sand ceramic mixture
or gypsum. The two electrodes are imbedded in the soil during installation. [4] Moisture is allowed to
move freely in and out of the sensors electrodes as the soil becomes moist or dries up. The resistance
of the electrodes to the flow current is correlated with moisture content. To measure this resistance the
electrodes are biased (energized) with a dc voltage and the current flowing through them measured.
Applying Ohm’s law;
R=V/I
Where: R is resistance (Unknown) (Ω)
V is biasing voltage (3.3V to 5.0V)
I is the current flowing through the electrodes (Amps)

29
 Figure 2.1.Home made soil moisture sensor

When the moisture content in the soil is high more current will be allowed to flow thus indicating low
resistance. On the other hand for dry soils the sensor will indicate higher resistance portrayed by the
low current reading.
This type of sensor is cheap and readily available. Electrical resistance blocks Sensors can also be
readily assembled from home using two metal plates or steel nails.
Electrical resistance blocks Sensors are mostly used in small projects and gardens due to the following
disadvantages;
• They are badly affected by soil PH and salinity thus requiring regular
maintenance
• They have low sensitivity.
• The electrodes; especially which provides a constant source of ions; do not dry
at the same rate as the soil surrounding it.

30
 Figure 2.2. Schematic of an electrical resistance block and meter

B. Electrical conductivity probe sensors

Electrical conductivity probes employ the same principle as the Electrical resistance blocks
Sensors. The one major difference between the two types of sensors is that Electrical
conductivity probes sensors have their electrodes/probes in direct contact with the soil. [4]

By definition electricity is the flow of charges and water in its pure form cannot conduct
electricity. The amount of impurities in water and mineral salts make it polar thus able to
conduct electricity. A large volume of water will mean more ions and thus better electric
conduction. Electrical conductivity probes sensors takes advantage of this phenomenon. [4]

The amount of current passing between the probes is directly proportional to the soil moisture
content. Moist soil allow more current to flow between the probes while drier soils only allow
a little current to flow between the probes. Better conductivity indicates a lower electrical
resistance.

Most of the soil moisture sensors currently in the market especially for small projects are Electrical
conductivity probes sensors. They have the following advantages.
• They are cheap
• They are readily available

31
 • Easy to calibrate and install

C. Dielectric sensors
Dielectric sensors measure the soil water content in the soil by measuring the dielectric
permittivity of the soil. A dielectric material is substance that does not conductor electricity,
but supports electrostatic fields efficiently. At some cases dielectric substance are referred to
as insulators. The volume of water in the soil influences the dielectric permittivity of soil.
[4]The dielectric of water which is 80.4 is greater than other soil constituents. Therefore
change in the amount of water in the soil will directly lead to change in the soil dielectric
permittivity.

Dielectric sensors are very complex to build thus making them very expensive. These sensors are
mostly used in scientific research owing to their high accuracy and cost

Dielectric sensors are classified into two types namely: Capacitance sensors and Time Domain
Reflectometry (TDR) sensors. These sensors do not measure electrical conductivity while
measuring soil moisture. [7]

1. Capacitance sensors
Capacitance sensors use frequency domain Reflectometry (FDR).Frequency domain
Reflectometry is the measure of signal reflections through a medium across frequency.
Capacitance sensors contain two electrodes which are separated by a dielectric material.

The soil becomes the dielectric component after the electrodes are inserted into the soil; it
could even be inserted into the access tube in the soil to achieve the same results. A high
oscillating frequency is thereafter applied to the electrodes to induce a resonant frequency. The
magnitude of the resonant frequency is dependent on the dielectric constant of the soil which
in turns depends on or can change to the soil’s moisture content. The change of the frequency
as a result of the soil’s moisture content is converted into the measurement of the soil moisture.

2. Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) sensors

Time Domain Reflectometry uses the principle of waveguides. The actual content of water in
the soil is measured under this technology and not the water potential.[7] The TDR device
sends signals to the rods inserted in the soil. The time required for an electromagnetic signal

32
to travel along the wave guide is measured. The rate at which the send signal returns is used
to measure the water content in the soil. The return rate is dependent on the dielectric properties
of the soil. The signal takes longer time in moisture soils and shorter time in dry soil. This
pulse signal is then converted into soil moisture measurement. [4] TDR sensors give accurate
readings faster and require very little maintenance. The major disadvantage of TDR sensors is
that they require they require different calibrations depending on different soil types.

D. Heat dissipation sensors

Heat dissipation sensors measure the soil moisture content by measuring the amount of heat
dissipated from a medium which is of ceramic kind in most cases. The water contained in the
medium spaces is directly proportional to the heat dissipated from the medium. [8]The less the
water contained in the medium the less the heat dissipated and more heat is dissipated if the
water contained in the medium is high. More heat dissipated leads to lower reading on the
sensor and less heat dissipated leads to higher reading on the sensor.

The sensor uses the principle of capillarity. Capillary forces influence movement of water
between the sensor medium and the surrounding soil. Heat dissipation sensors are
independent of soil salinity thus not affected by soil type. They require minimum or no
calibration at all. On the downside this type of sensors are very expensive.

E. Tensiometer Sensors
Tensiometer sensors measure the soil moisture content in the soil by measuring the moisture
tension/suction in the soil. Tensiometers sensors is made up of two major parts; a plastic tube
which has a ceramic porous medium at its tip and a vacuum gauge on the opposite end. [7]

During installation the ceramic tip is buried in the soil at the calibrated depth which should be
as near as possible to the plants root area. The vacuum gauge measures the effort the plants
roots have to put to extract water from the soil.[4]This is the measure of the soil measure
tension which is measured in centibars.

33
 Figure 2.3 Diagram of a Tensiometer

If the soil moisture content is low the roots work harder to extract water from the soil. The
reading on the sensor is high. When water is more available in the soil the roots works less and
thus lower reading is indicated on the sensor.[8]

Figure 2.4 Tensiometer installation

34
  Sensor Selection

When deciding on which sensor to use the following factors should be put into consideration: [4][8]

Price: This is the most important parameter when selecting any component. The price of the
sensor will ultimately affect the price of the whole system as this is one of the major system
modules. Sensor with the most competitive price should be chosen.

Power: In any electrical system power efficiency is critical. Moisture sensor will low power
consumption should be selected. Sensors which can be battery powered can be used in areas
without electricity connection.

Technology: Technology used to design sensor dictate the sensitivity, cost and durability of
the sensors. Most low cost sensors have poor sensitivity, rust and corrode over time. Resistive
or conductive sensors which are affected by soil salinity thus have a short life.

Shape: Long and slender sensors can be used in many applications than bulky ones.

Durability: Soil moisture sensor which are not affected by soil salinity, corrode or rust should
be selected. Soil moisture sensor probes that measure conductivity or resistance should be
avoided, since they will wear out over time.

Accuracy and Linearity: A quality soil moisture sensor probe should give an output which is
proportional to water content over the full output range. In addition, the soil moisture sensor
probe should have a good output range to reduce sensitivity to noise.

Voltage Range: Choose a sensor that has a big supply voltage range. Powering a sensor with the
wrong voltage will damage the sensor or give inaccurate results.
Sensor Installation

35
Sensors orientation and installation depends on the sensor type, size and shape (flat, node, and
rod). Installation should be guided by the manufacturer's installation manual. But in general
the sensor should be installed as close to the root area as possible. [4]

On new fields; the SMS should be installed prior to planting crops. The sensor should be
installed at approximately 3 inches deep. For existing fields trenches are dug at uniform
intervals and SMS installed.[8]

Figure 2.12.Installation of flat probe SMS

Flat sensor probes are commonly found in two types and typically use TDT technology. These
are the Exposed wave guides and the Encased wave guides. Both of these sensor types are
installed horizontally. [7]

Node probes type soil moisture sensors are usually installed vertically around the root area.

Granular Matrix technology is typically used in this SMS type.

Figure 2.13. SMSs with node probes installation

36
For rod type probes SMSs; the probes are installed inclined at 450 to the ground to allow the
probes to the read moisture content from the root zone. TDR technology is typically used in
this class of sensors. SMSs should be installed away from structures, tree canopy, construction
roads and plant debris.

 Sensor Calibration
As is the case of sensors installation, sensor calibration should also be done in line with the
manufacturer's specifications. Different sensors have different calibration procedures. Development
stage of the plants roots also determines the SMSs calibration. [7] The soil type and crops water
requirements greatly influence the sensors calibration.
condition Range In percent
Dry soil 0 ~300 <26%
In water(soil soggy) 300~1000 >26%

Table 2-3. YL-69 sensor value description

Maintenance

The technology used to design the sensors determines the regularity of maintenance. Electric
resistance and conductance sensors tend to corrode with time and thus require regular
maintenance and replacement.

2.5.2 Pressure sensor

Pressure sensors are based on the principle of bending a membrane caused by the pressure in a liquid
or gas. On the membrane is a very thin conductive screened layer that that follows the bending of the
membrane. This bending can be measured in two different ways:
First one can measure the distance between the conductive (and resistive) layer on the Membrane and
a reference layer in the housing of the sensor. The two layers form a capacity and the change in the
distance show a change in the capacitive value can be measured
Secondly, the resistance of the conductive layers is changed when the membrane is combined. A smart
mechanical layout of four resistive structures can form a stable Wheatstone bridge, comparable with
the classical strain gauge sensors. Both ways of measuring the pressure are widely used.

37
The bending of the membrane (and also the layer) is very small (<< 1 mm), but is still large enough to
measure the changes in the resistive values. The resistive structures on the surfaces can be compressed
or stretched depending what direction the membrane is blended. When the layer is compressed the
resistance value will decrease and when stretched this value will increase. In practice this means that
the Wheatstone bridge is imbalanced in a positive and in a negative way respectively.
In general the screened resistors are also sensitive to temperature which means a compensation for
temperature effects is required.

2.5.1 Types of pressure sensors

The membrane will be bended if there is a difference in pressure on both sides of the membrane. There
are three types of pressure sensors: the gauge type, the absolute type and the differential type; each type
with their specific field of application. In short: gauge sensor measuring the difference of the medium
and the atmospheric pressure, therefore one side of the membrane is always atmospheric pressure.
Absolute type is referenced to vacuum, so one side of the membrane is vacuum. Differential sensor is
referenced to another pressure and can measure the difference between the two pressures, so both sides
can be anything.
A. The gauge pressure sensor.
One side of the membrane is pressurized liquid or gas type medium that has to be measured and the
other side of the membrane is open to the atmosphere. This means the pressure measured is referenced
to the atmospheric pressure. This connection to the atmosphere is generally called the ventilation hole.
This implies that the only interface between the “outside world” and the pressurized side is the
membrane. Should this membrane be damaged (e.g. due to a pressure shock) the pressurized side is

38
directly connected to the ventilation hole which means gasses or liquids flaring out can cause a
dangerous situation. For measuring pressure of hazardous gases this type of sensor is not used.
B. Absolute pressure sensors.
The absolute version of the pressure sensor has no ventilation hole and that side of the membrane is
vacuum. There for it measures against vacuum and hence the name: Absolute sensor.
It is very hard to create such a “chamber” with an absolute vacuum (it does not exist actually).
However the pressure in the vacuum reference chamber of the smart sensors is very low (25.10-3 Torr
or 5.10-4 PSI).As is well-known, the vacuum must be high to prevent disturbing effects by differences
in temperatures in the “almost” vacuum chamber. By warming up of the residue the pressure in the
vacuum chamber will increase.
A special kind of Absolute sensor is the Barometric sensor. This sensor may be considered as an
absolute sensor with a limited range. In principle this range is between about 1000 mBar and 0 mBar.
But for more resolution Barometric sensors are designed for a range of 1000 – 800 mBar and are
generally used to measure the atmospheric pressure.

C. Differential pressure sensor.

The differential sensor has inputs to each side of the membrane, one for the positive input and the other
one for the negative pressure input. The bending of the membrane is related to the difference of the
pressure on each side. In this project we are using this type of pressure sensor and it more digitalized
rather than the other. Differential pressure sensor used to measure the amount of pressure due to force
of water exert on it .but, it installed through the pump of the water across. This pressure is different
from other because it smart and the threshold is simply arranged by user. Differential pressure sensor
have two main part: these are outer and inner part. This part of each has their own advantage and
compiled with each other.
As the input of pressure is applied on the pressure the inner part of this body pull up, the same as when
the input pressure which act in the process of force is reduced as soon as pressure sensor inner part is
pull down and close the water across pump.it is passive sensor because it do not need external power
supply as like soil moisture sensor.

39
 in
2.6 Power supply
Electrical supply is used in bringing electrical energy to central processing unit. Most PLC
controllers work either at 24 VDC or 220 VAC. On some PLC controllers you'll find electrical
supply as a separate module. Those are usually bigger PLC controllers, while small and medium
series already contain the supply module. User has to determine how much current to take from I/O
module to ensure that electrical supply provides appropriate amount of current. Different types of
modules use different amounts of electrical current in order device or instrument needs .24 v dc
batter can able to get from AC power supply or from batteries . In stand-alone systems, the power
generated by the solar panels is usually used to charge a lead acid battery. Other types of battery
such as nickel-cadmium batteries may be used, but the advantages of the lead-acid battery ensure
that it is still the most popular choice. A battery is composed of individual cells; each cell in a lead-
acid battery produces a voltage of about 2 Volts DC, so a 12 Volt battery needs 6 cells. The capacity
of a battery is measured in Ampere-hours or Amp-hours (Ah). [16]

There are two types of popular deep-cycle lead acid batteries in use today: SEALED and

40
WET. For solar applications a battery needs to be capable of being discharged hundreds or even
thousands of times. This type of battery is known as a deep-cycle battery. [15]
Lead-acid cells consist of two plates of lead, which serve as electrodes, suspended in diluted
sulphuric acid, which is then the electrolyte. In conventional lead-acid cells, the diluted acid is in
liquid form, hence the term "flooded" or "wet" cells. VRLA cells have essentially the same leadacid
chemistry, but the diluted acid electrolyte solution is immobilized, either by soaking a fibreglass
mat in it (hence: glass-mat batteries), or by turning the liquid into a paste-like gel by the addition
of silica and other gelling agents (hence: gel batteries).[15]

VRLA batteries offer several advantages compared with standard lead-acid batteries. The battery
can be mounted in any position, since the valves only operate on overpressure faults. Since the
battery system is designed to be recombinant and eliminate the emission of gases on overcharge,
room ventilation requirements are reduced and no acid fume is emitted during normal operation.
The volume of free electrolyte that could be released on damage to the case or venting is very small.
There is no need (nor possibility) to check the level of electrolyte or to top up water lost due to
electrolysis, reducing inspection and maintenance. Because of calcium added to its plates to reduce
water loss, a sealed battery recharges much quicker than a flooded lead acid battery. A deep cycle
wet cell battery can take 8-12 hours to achieve only 70% to 80% of its potential charge." Compared
to flooded batteries, VRLA batteries are more vulnerable to thermal runaway during abusive
charging. The electrolyte cannot be tested by hydrometer to diagnose improper charging, which
can reduce battery life. [15]

41
 Fig: 2.4 PLC power supply
In general PLC power supply;
 Supplies DC power to other modules that plug into the rack.
 In large PLC systems, this power supply does not normally supply power to the field devices in small
and micro PLC systems; the power supply is also used to power field devices.
Extension modules
Every PLC controller has a limited number of input/output lines. If this number is needed, it can be
increased through certain additional modules by system extension through extension lines. Each
module can contain extension both of input and output lines. Also, extension modules can have inputs
and outputs of a different nature from those on the PLC controller (ex. in case relay outputs are on a
controller, transistor outputs can be on an extension module).
Programming a PLC controller
PLC controller can be reprogrammed through a computer (usual way), but also through manual
programmers (consoles). This practically means that each PLC controller can programmed through a

42
computer if you have the software needed for programming. Today's transmission computers are ideal
for reprogramming a PLC controller in factory itself. This is of great importance to industry.
Once the system is corrected, it is also important to read the right program into a PLC again. It is also
good to check from time to time whether program in a PLC has not changed. This helps to avoid
hazardous situations in factory rooms (some automakers have established communication networks
which regularly check programs in PLC controllers to ensure execution only of good programs).
Almost every program for programming a PLC controller possesses various useful options such as:
forced switching on and off of the system inputs/outputs (I/O lines), program follow up in real time as
well as documenting a diagram. This documenting is necessary to understand and define failures and
malfunctions.
Programmer can add remarks, names of input or output devices, and comments that can be useful when
finding errors, or with system maintenance. Adding comments and remarks enables any technician (and
not just a person who developed the system) to understand a ladder diagram right away. Comments
and remarks can even quote precisely part numbers if replacements would be needed. This would speed
up a repair of any problems that come up due to bad parts.

43
 CHAPTER THREE
HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE IMPLEMENTATION
3.1 Materials
The materials we have used in our paper are different books, journals, and thesis and ongoing projects
in automatic irrigation system. From this we are going to select appropriate principle operation of PLC
programming, soil moisture sensor, dc relay, pressure sensor and water pump based on their application
in automatic irrigation system using soil moisture sensor.
The other material we have been using for our simulation is Siemen PLC/ logo software.

3.2 Hardware Components

The hard ware is a physical, touchable, material part of a computer or other system. The
hardware components are the backbone of the system. Our paper contains the following components;
 Soil moisture sensor
 pressure sensor
 Pump motor /DC motor
 DC Relay
 Indicator (alarm for bell)

3.3 Basic Block Diagram of the System

The hard ware development described in this section depicts the PLC control circuit necessary
for the automatic irrigation system to function in accordance to some important parameters. As
show fig 3.1 below, the automatic irrigation system follows the stipulated block.
The block diagram of the circuit is shown in figure 3.1. This circuit controls the soil moisture
And water flow pressure by using programmable logic control.

44
 Figure 3.1: block diagram of the over all project

Operation Procedure
The controller is programmable logic controller and the controlled variable in this system is electrically
controlled. The final elements are the motor pumping and the indicator give voice or bell. State of the
Relay is controlled and determined by status of the three PLC inputs.
1. The moisture sensor is installed at a predetermined depth under the plant root. When the system
starts the Irrigation the shallow moisture sensor senses dry first and irrigation continued until the wet
moisture sensor senses. At this point the controller takes an action and the main relay will be closed.
2. The second input is a pressure sensor in water pump. This water pump level sensor senses the level
of the water in the pump pipe is high or low in the predetermined specification through PLC circuit.
That means the low pressure sensor senses, the motor pump will start pumping water to the field for
plant if soil moisture sensor sensing no water in the soil. When the high level sensor senses the motor
will stop pumping to the field.
3. The third inputs are start and stop which send command according to programmed parameters. These
input parameters to the controller sets high whenever the user want to start and stop the irrigation
system irrespective of the status of the level pressure sensor in the water pumping pipe and status of
moisture sensor in the root zone of the plant.

45
3.1.5 Programmable logic controller (logo)

Figure 3.4: LOGO picture

The type of PLC used in this project is LOGO 12/24 RC. It has eight inputs (I1-I6 digital input, analog
input I7 & I8) and 4 outputs (Q1-Q4). It is compatible with analog sensor were their output is 0-10v, 0-
20mA and 4-20mA .The two sensors which are used in this project are analog type. This project utilizes
hardware (PLC) available in the market. But the programmer is designed using LOGO software where
it’s uploaded in PLC and the automatic controller of the system will be commanded and controlled.
Gain
The standardized value is multiplied with a parameter. Using this parameter you can more or less boost
the electric quantity. Hence, this parameter is called the "gain".
Zero point offset
You can add or subtract a parameter to or from the boosted standardized value.
Using this parameter you can more or less move the zero point of the electric quantity. Hence, this
parameter is called the "zero point offset".
Gain and offset
The analog value is therefore calculated as follows:
Analog value = (standardized value x gain) + offset
The following diagram illustrates this formula and the significance of gain and offset

46
 Analog Value

Gain

Offset
Standard value

Figure 3.5: gain and offset diagram

The straight line in the graphic describes which standardized value is being converted into which analog
value. Gain corresponds to the slope of the straight line and offset to the movement of the zero passage
of the straight line on the y-axis.

Analog output
If you connect a special function (that has an analog output) to a realanalog output, then note that the
analog output can only process values from 0 to 1000.
The out of the moisture content sensor is 4-20ma of Analog output. The logo 12/24R is supporting
analog input. From the 8 input pins I7 & I8 are analog input pins.
Possible settings with LOGO
If you directly program your circuit program on the LOGO then you can only enter the gain and offset
parameters. You can calculate the gain and offset as follows:
External value range minSensor - maxSensor:
Range of a physical quantity that the sensor can measure:
Standardized value range minnorm - maxnorm:
Value range of the standardized values:
With sensors that provide 4 to 20 mA, the standardized range is 200 – 1000 so for gain and offset it
follows:
Gain = (maxSensor - minSensor) / (maxnorm – minnorm)

47
Offset = [(minSensor x maxnorm) – (maxSensor x minnorm)] / (maxnorm – minnorm)
If you have calculated either the gain or the offset in accordance with the formulas above, you can then
calculate the respective other value in accordance with the following formula:
Gain = (minSensor - Offset) / minnorm
Offset = (minSensor – (Gain x minnorm)
Calculation for soil moisture sensor
Sensor output=4-20 mA; 0-100%VWC
Standardized value range=200-1000
Gain= (100-0)/ (1000-200) =0.125≈1.3
Offset= (0-(1.3)*(200)) =-26
Calculation for pressure sensor
Sensor output=0-10v; 0-150MPSi
Standardized value range=0-1000
Gain= (150*10^6-0)/ (1000-0) = 150,000
Offset= (0-(149,900)*0) =0

3.2 Software implementation

Computer software or simply software is any set of machine-readable instructions that directs a
computer's processor to perform specific operations. Hardware is like a musical instrument and
software is like the notes played on that instrument. Computer software includes computer
programs, libraries and their associated documentation. The word software is also sometimes used in
a more narrow sense, meaning application software only. At the lowest level, executable code consists
of machine language instructions specific to an individual processor typically a central processing unit
(CPU). A machine language consists of groups of binary values signifying processor instructions
that change the state of the computer from its preceding state.
The Logo software is implemented to design the control of the system. Here the moisture level cab
selected in accordance to the purpose of the automatic pumping system. It can range 0-100% VWC.
But, for sample; 0-26%VWC the lower moisture level where the system require pumping water for
irrigation, and above 26%VWC up to 100% VWC no need of watering of the irrigation i.e. the pump
should be hold in off position.

48
 Realization of the software
The software is realized with the support of:
• We have started by assuming a solar power is always there.
• The program is developed based on the input signal.
• When there is a dry soil the motor is ON for a certain time and when the soil is moisture the motor is
OFF after a certain delay time.

49
3.2.1 Flow chart

Figure 3.6: algorithm flow chart

50
 CHAPTER FOUR

CIRCUIT DIAGRAM

4.1 BATTER
An important fact is that all of the batteries commonly used in deep cycle applications are Lead Acid.
This includes the standard flooded (wet) batteries, gelled, and AGM. They all use the same chemistry,
although the actual construction of the plates etc.
Gelled batteries or "Gel Cells" contain acid that has been "gelled" by the addition of Silica Gel, turning
the acid into a solid mass that looks like gooey Jell-O. The advantage of these batteries is that it is
impossible to spill acid even if they are broken. However, there are several disadvantages. One is that
they must be charged at a slower rate (C/20) to prevent excess gas from damaging the cells. They
cannot be fast charged on a conventional automotive charger or they may be permanently damaged.
This is not usually a problem with solar electric systems, but if an auxiliary generator or inverter bulk
charger is used, current must be limited to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Batteries self-discharge faster at higher temperatures. Lifespan can also be seriously reduced at higher
temperatures - most manufacturers state this as a 50% loss in life for every 15 degrees F over a 77
degree cell temperature. Lifespan is increased at the same rate if below 77 degrees, but capacity is

51
reduced. This tends to even out in most systems - they will spend part of their life at higher
temperatures, and part at lower.
All Lead-Acid batteries supply about 2.14 volts per cell (12.6 to 12.8 for a 12 volt battery) when fully
charged. Voltage on a fully charged battery will read 2.12 to 2.15 volts per cell, or 12.7 volts for a 12
volt battery. At 50% the reading will be 2.03 VPC (Volts Per Cell), and at 0% will be 1.75 VPC or less.
4.2 YGX-PTS503 pressure sensor
It detects pressure of the flowing water in the pipe of the pumping system and change in to proportional
electrical signal. Its output could be analog/digital based on the design. For this project, YGX-PTS503
is selected. Because, it using stainless steel integral component, the original imported elastic body, high
precision strain gauge and advanced technology, has the advantages of high sensitivity, stable
performance, and good shock resistance ability. It is installed in the pumping system pipe by screw
thread.

Figure 3.2: water flow pressure sensor

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4.3 YL-69 Moisture Sensor
This is an Electrical resistance Sensor is made up of two electrodes. This soil moisture sensor
reads the moisture content around it. A current is passed across the electrodes through the soil
and the resistance to the current in the soil determines the soil moisture. If the soil has more
water resistance will be low and thus more current will pass through. On the other hand when
the soil moisture is low the sensor module outputs a high level of resistance. This sensor has
both digital and analogue outputs. Digital output is simple to use but is not as accurate as the
analogue output.

Figure 2.5 YL-69 Sensor

YL-69 soil moisture sensor has the following specifications:

Vcc power supply 3.3V or 5V

Current 35mA
Signal output voltage 4-2mA
Digital Outputs 0 or 1
Analog Resistance (Ω)
Panel Dimension 3.0cm by 1.6cm
Probe Dimension 6.0cm by 3.0cm
GND Connected to ground

Table 2-1 YL-69 specifications

It sense soil moisture level and induce proportional electrical signal to moisture level available in the
soil. This signal could be analog/digital. But it must be understandable to plc. For this project, due to

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its accuracy and comparatively low cost and compatibility of the sensor with LOGO12/24 RC, MAS-
1 is used. YL-69 soil moisture sensor connect to PLC used to alter the sensitivity of the sensor when
Resistance to flow of current between the sensor probes changes with soil moisture level and soil type.
The current passing through the sensor probes (Iout) for different soils and different soil moisture levels
was calculated as shown below:
Iout = Vcc / {Soil Resistance value (RS)}

Figure 4: mas-1 4-20 milliamp water content sensor

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55
 CHAPTER FIVE
RESULT AND DISCUSSION
In this chapter results has been presented after setting of sensors and implementation of the
algorithms discussed in chapter three. The algorithm has been developed in LOGO software
environment and solar panel is using MATLAB software.
5.1 Functional logic diagram and ladder logic diagram of control system

Figure 5.1: function logic diagram of control system

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 Figure 5.2: ladder logic diagram of control system

The logo software was used to design the automatic control system program. As shown in the figure
above, it comprise of the functional block diagram and the ladder diagram. All are represent the
automatic control irrigation system. The high function is activating both of the Analog watchdog
(B002) for moisture sensor and B005 for pressure sensor) i.e. the system become to accepts the analog
kinputs. AI1 and AI2 are analog output of the moisture level sensor and flowing water pressure sensor
respectively. Q1 and M1 are outputs. Where, M1 is to operate relay for starting of motor and Q1 is
alarm signal (Red lamp or bell…). B004, and B006 are NOT functioning, B001 is AND function ,B003
IS off delay timer function and B008 is asynchronous pulse generator.
When the simulation is turned on high function output is 1. This makes the Analog watchdog function
get ready to accept analog inputs.i.e analog is as like A/D converter system .Then, there are three
conditions of operation.
i. When pressure and moisture is below the required value. Both the Analog watchdog output will be 0.
In order to indicate the alarm, NOT function is connected to alarm output. The relay output is 0.
System indicating alarm but do not turn on the motor through relay (M1).
ii. When Pressure in normal operating range and the moisture is below the required. The system free from
fault. So that the alarm (Q1) output is 0. And in order to bring into normal range of moisture level (M1)
is turned on. When the sensor reaches to minimum of the normal range value of moisture level the

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 output of the Analog watchdog is 0. But in order to continue irrigating to the farm, the off delay
function will bring the pumping to certain seconds/minutes as desire.
iii. When the pumping system was operating in the middle of operation (II) but when suddenly the pressure
gets below the required level the output (M1) will be 0 or the motor will stop. This is because of the
AND function. Besides, off delay operation reset by the alarm output.

CHAPTER FIVE
CONCLUSION AND RECOMENDATION
5.1 Conclusion
Soil moisture sensor detects the amount of moisture level then transmits to the PLC. One could change
the design with ease due to the flexibility of the programmable logic controller. The PLC takes an
action according the available programmed. If the moisture level reduces from the required level, then
it sends a signal to the relay to turn on the brushless dc motor in order to water the irrigation. On the
contrary, if the moisture level in needed range, the system holds the pump in the off position.
Application of the system in accordance with soil moisture level results economic water utilization and
profit increment. Saved water from wastage will aid to cultivate additional lands. Due to automatic
operation of the system, it reduces human labour. This project has a great impact in modernization of
Ethiopia agriculture. The development of the country would demand such an automatic system for the

58
farmer who are able to afford the system cost and for who are in interest of cultivating additional land
with the available limited water resource. This also will be able to aid the large agricultural companies
who might suffer from scarcity of human labour or who has the interest to utilize the automatic
irrigation system using system from other of electrical energy.
To detect when the submersible pump is not operating normally using the pressure flow of the water
pipe pressure sensor is included in the system. When there is no water flow with low pressure, the
system protects the pump from running and wastage of stored power. The system fault alarm indication
is turned on by the PLC signal that the operator can identify existence of fault in order to troubleshoot
the problem occurred in the system.

5.2 Recommendation
The automatic farm irrigation system still can be improved for future development .Some modification
and renovation on the system have to be made in order to acquire Powerful system of automatic farm
irrigation. Therefore a list of recommendations is given as below:
1. The system should be tested to be practical in agricultural sectors to assist the economic activities
of the country and therefore stakeholders such as our university and ministry of agriculture
must cooperate to see the fruit of this project.
2. The system can be used to spray the fertilizers on the farm in scientific way for proper growth of the
plants to increase agricultural production as a whole and the system can be improved by PLC systems
and Microcontrollers.
3. The system should be installed by skillful and knowledgeable persons in the field which have
different types of soil to set the system at the recommended values of moisture level of the soil, local
light intensity and local wind speed and it should be also repaired by these persons when problems
occurred on the system.
For furthermore project research improvement this project is recommended

59
 REFERENCES
1. Rafael Munoz-Carpena and Michael D. Dukes, ʽʽ Automatic Irrigation Based on Soil Moisture for
Vegetable Crops,”(2001)
2. New Delhi, ʽʽ Introduction to Programmable Logic Controllers 3rd Edition,” (2006)

3. Siemens step 2000 basics of plcs

4. drip irrigation using a plc based adaptive irrigation system (shahidian, s., serralheiro, r.p., teixeira, j.l.,
santos, f.l., oliveira, m.r.g., costa, j.l., toureiro, c., haie, n., machado, r.m.)
5. water saving-irrigation automatic agricultural controller (pranita a. bhosale, prof. v. v. dixit)
6. Automatic irrigation system using a programmable logic controller (mostefa m.ghassoul m.i.e.e.e.)
7. Soil moisture sensor datasheet
8. Songle relay Datasheet
9. W. C. Dunn, Introduction to Instrumentation Sensors, and Process Control, British Library
Cataloguing, 2005
10. Skinner. A.Hignett. C., and Dearden. J., “Resurrecting the Gypsum Block for Soil Moisture
Measurement”, Australian Viticulture, October/November 1997.
11. (http://www.sowacs.com/sensors/gypsum.txt)
12. [2] Morris. M., “Soil Moisture Monitoring: Low Cost Tools and Methods” NCAT Energy Specialist,
ATTRA Publication #IP277, 2006.
13. [3] Daniel K. Fisher, HirutKebede, "A microcontroller-based system to monitor crop temperature
and water status", Computers and Electronics in Agriculture 74 (2010)
14. Helikson Haman, Pumping Water For Irrigation Using System,(2009)
15. [4] Richard Allen, “Soil Water Monitoring with Inexpensive Equipment”, University of Idaho, 2000

APPENDIX I
LISTS OF ABBREVIATIONS

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AC……………………………………..alternating current

CPU……………………………………central processing unit

DC……………………………………..direct current

Fig……………………………………..figure

IEC…………………………………….international electro technical commission

NC……………………………………..normally close

NO…………………………………….normally open

PLC…………………………………..programmable logic controller

R&D………………………………….research and development

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