IoT Solar-Powered Irrigation System

Project Overview:
The Solar-Powered Irrigation System is an innovative IoT solution designed to automate plant watering in outdoor environments. This system is powered entirely by solar energy, ensuring sustainability and minimal operational costs. The core of the project is an ESP32-S3 microcontroller, chosen for its low power consumption and advanced connectivity features. The system utilizes a high-efficiency buck converter to regulate power, ensuring consistent operation even under varying solar conditions. A 5V water pump is controlled via a USB Type-A interface, with PWM control to adjust the water flow based on plant needs.

System Components:

1. Power Management:
   • Solar panel to harvest renewable energy.
   • Integrated battery and charging circuit (TP4056 module) to store energy.
   • High-efficiency buck converter (TPS63020) to provide stable 5V and 3.3V outputs for system components.
2. Microcontroller:
   • ESP32-S3 as the central controller, providing Wi-Fi/Bluetooth connectivity for remote monitoring and control.
3. Water Pump Control:
   • 5V water pump powered through a USB Type-A port.
   • PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) for precise water flow control to avoid overwatering or under-watering.
4. Sensors:
   • AM2301 temperature and humidity sensor to monitor environmental conditions.
   • Optional soil moisture sensor integration for targeted irrigation.
5. User Interface and Debugging:
   • LED indicators for power and charging status.
   • Buttons for manual pump control and system reset.
6. Additional Features:
   • MAX17048 battery fuel gauge for monitoring battery levels.
   • Ultrasonic sensor (HC-SR04) for water level or distance measurement in reservoirs.

Key Benefits:

1. Energy Efficiency:
   • Solar-powered operation reduces dependency on external power sources.
   • High-efficiency buck converter minimizes energy losses.
2. Resource Conservation:
   • Optimized water usage with PWM-controlled pump and environmental sensors.
   • Remote monitoring allows precise scheduling and adjustments.
3. Scalability:
   • Modular design allows integration with other IoT devices.
   • Expandable to larger irrigation systems.
4. Cost-Effective:
   • Reduces labor and water costs through automation.
   • Sustainable solar energy eliminates electricity expenses.
5. Environmentally Friendly:
   • Renewable energy-based operation minimizes carbon footprint.
   • Promotes efficient water usage in agriculture and gardening.

This system is ideal for smart gardening, urban farming, and agricultural applications where efficient water management is critical. With its advanced features and eco-friendly design, it provides a modern solution to traditional irrigation challenges.