Design and Implementation of an IoT-Based Smart Bin for Real-Time Fill Level Monitoring
Abstract
In today’s world, as populations and cities grow, the generation of waste increases accordingly. Traditional waste management systems face several problems, like poor human monitoring, untimely collection, inadequate disposal of hazardous material, and high costs. This project focused on the design and implementation of an IoT-based smart bin, a prototype that was developed to provide automated waste disposal while also offering real-time monitoring capabilities. The project involved the Espressif32 (ESP32) microcontroller, which was used for its fast-processing speed and integrated Wi-Fi stack. The hardware of the system included two HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensors that provided signals for the ESP32 to operate with. Upon detecting a user, the first ultrasonic sensor facilitated automated waste disposal by sending signals to the ESP32 for the opening and closing of the bin’s lid using the servo motor. The second ultrasonic sensor monitored the waste fill level of the bin, and when the bin was filled up, an email notification was sent to the user. The prototype offered multi-layered feedback that included remote monitoring and immediate local alerts through LEDs and a buzzer. The prototype, which is powered by lithium-ion batteries, offered a reliable, technologically advanced result for improving urban sanitary infrastructure.
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