IoT-Based System for Monitoring LPG Fuel Cylinder Levels and Detecting Leaks

This project involves the development and implementation of an IoT-based system aimed at monitoring the levels of LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) in fuel cylinders and detecting potential gas leaks. By utilizing modern sensors, a microcontroller, and connectivity features, the system ensures safety and convenience for users, particularly in domestic and industrial environments. An integrated display provides real-time data on LPG levels, while alarms and notifications alert users to low fuel levels or leaks, promoting prompt action to mitigate risks and maintain an efficient gas supply.

Objectives

To continuously monitor the LPG level in the fuel cylinder and provide real-time data to users. To detect any LPG leakage promptly and alert the user through audible and visual alarms. To send notifications to the user’s mobile device if the LPG level is critically low or if a leak is detected. To ensure the system operates with high reliability and accuracy, enhancing safety and user convenience. To provide an easy-to-read display of LPG levels and system status on a local screen.

Key Features

- Real-time monitoring of LPG levels using a load cell sensor. - Leakage detection using an MQ-6 gas sensor. - On-screen display of gas levels and alert status. - Wireless connectivity to send alerts and notifications to the user's mobile device. - Audible alarm for immediate local notification of leaks.

Application Areas

The IoT-based system for monitoring LPG fuel cylinder levels and detecting leaks has extensive application areas. In domestic settings, it ensures the safety of household kitchens by providing timely alerts about potential gas leaks and low fuel levels, thereby preventing accidents. In industrial environments, the system helps in managing fuel supply efficiently, ensuring the uninterrupted operation of machinery that relies on LPG. Restaurants and commercial kitchens can benefit significantly by maintaining safety standards and preventing gas-related hazards. Moreover, this system is valuable in camping and outdoor cooking scenarios, where monitoring LPG levels is crucial for safety and convenience.

Detailed Working of IoT-Based System for Monitoring LPG Fuel Cylinder Levels and Detecting Leaks :

The IoT-based system for monitoring LPG fuel cylinder levels and detecting leaks is a sophisticated yet straightforward arrangement designed to ensure safety and efficiency. The primary components of the system include an ESP8266 microcontroller, an LCD display, a buzzer, voltage regulators (LM7812, LM7805), load cell, HX711 module, and a gas sensor. The system utilizes IoT to communicate real-time data directly to the user’s preferred device, offering a seamless monitoring experience.

The circuit begins with a 220V AC power supply which is stepped down to 24V AC using a transformer. This 24V AC is fed to a bridge rectifier configuration composed of four diodes, converting the AC voltage to DC voltage. The resulting DC voltage is filtered using a capacitor to ensure smooth DC output. The two voltage regulators, LM7812 and LM7805, play crucial roles here. The LM7812 provides a steady 12V output, while the LM7805 ensures a stable 5V output, essential for various components of the circuit, particularly the microcontroller and sensors.

Next, we have the heart of the system, the ESP8266 microcontroller, which is responsible for processing and transmitting data. The microcontroller is connected to the LCD display, which provides a user-friendly interface to display real-time data. The LCD is powered through the 5V regulator and interfaced with the ESP8266 using several digital pins for communication. This display portrays crucial information such as the current weight of the LPG cylinder and, if detected, any potential gas leaks.

The load cell, coupled with the HX711 module, measures the weight of the LPG cylinder. The load cell converts the force exerted by the cylinder's weight into an electrical signal, which is then amplified by the HX711 module. The amplified digital signal is sent to the ESP8266 microcontroller for further processing. By monitoring the weight, the system can effectively determine the LPG fuel level, sending this information wirelessly to a connected device via Wi-Fi.

In parallel, the gas sensor is responsible for detecting any potential LPG leakage. It continuously samples the surrounding air and, upon detecting the presence of LPG, sends an analog signal to the microcontroller. The ESP8266 interprets this signal and, if the gas concentration is above a predefined threshold, triggers an alarm via the connected buzzer. The buzzer emits a loud sound to alert nearby individuals of the gas leak, ensuring prompt action can be taken to avert any hazardous situations.

Additionally, the microcontroller plays a vital role in the IoT aspect of the system. Utilizing its Wi-Fi capabilities, the ESP8266 sends data related to LPG levels and potential gas leaks to a cloud server or directly to a user’s smartphone or computer. This connectivity allows users to monitor the status of their LPG cylinders remotely and receive real-time alerts if any issues arise, thereby promoting safety and convenience.

The integration of these components creates a robust and efficient system for managing LPG fuel cylinders and detecting leaks. By encompassing power regulation, precise weight measurement, gas detection, real-time data display, and IoT capabilities, this project ensures a high level of safety and resource management for households or industry setups relying on LPG cylinders.

Modules used to make IoT-Based System for Monitoring LPG Fuel Cylinder Levels and Detecting Leaks :

Power Supply Module

The power supply module ensures that all components of the IoT-based system receive a stable power source. It converts the household AC voltage (220V) to a lower DC voltage (24V). This step-down is achieved through a transformer. The 24V AC is then rectified using diodes to convert it into DC voltage, followed by filtering to smooth out the voltage using capacitors. Two voltage regulators, LM7812 and LM7805, are used to provide regulated 12V and 5V outputs, respectively. The 12V is used for components requiring higher voltage, while 5V is used for the microcontroller and other low-power components, ensuring stable operation and preventing damage due to voltage fluctuations.

Microcontroller Module

The microcontroller module is the brain of the system and coordinates the activities of other modules. The ESP8266/ESP32 microcontroller is used, offering Wi-Fi capabilities for IoT functionalities. It gathers data from sensors, processes it, and then transmits it to a cloud server for monitoring. The microcontroller is programmed to handle various tasks such as reading sensor inputs, controlling outputs, and sending data through the internet. Power is provided by the 5V output from the power supply module. It acts as an interface between the sensor module, display module, buzzer, and the internet, ensuring smooth data flow and system functionality.

Sensor Module

The sensor module is responsible for detecting LPG levels and potential gas leaks. It typically includes gas sensors like the MQ-6 or MQ-2, which are sensitive to LPG concentration in the air. The sensors output an analog signal proportional to the gas concentration. This signal is read by the analog input pins of the microcontroller. Additionally, a load cell sensor is used to measure the weight of the LPG cylinder, indicating fuel levels. The load cell's output is processed by an HX711 amplifier, which converts the signal to a digital form for the microcontroller to interpret. This module ensures real-time monitoring of gas levels and leaks, providing critical data input for the system.

Display Module

The display module provides a user interface for instant data visualization. An LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) is typically used to show the current LPG level and leak status. The microcontroller sends the processed data to the LCD through serial communication or I2C interface. This module ensures that users can quickly glance at the system to understand the status of their LPG cylinder, without needing to check the software. It adds convenience and enhances user interaction with the system. The display is powered by the 5V output from the power supply module, ensuring its consistent operation alongside other system components.

Alert Module

The alert module enhances safety by notifying users of potential gas leaks. It comprises a buzzer that emits an audible alarm if a significant gas concentration is detected. The microcontroller continuously monitors sensor data and triggers the buzzer when a pre-set threshold is exceeded. This module ensures immediate awareness of dangerous situations, allowing prompt action to prevent accidents. The buzzer is driven by the microcontroller and typically powered by the 5V supply. This module is crucial for real-time alerting and adds a crucial safety layer to the system.

Data Transmission and Cloud Integration Module

The data transmission and cloud integration module enables remote monitoring of the LPG system. Using the Wi-Fi capabilities of the ESP8266/ESP32 microcontroller, the system sends sensor data to a cloud server. The module is programmed to periodically transmit data or send alerts during abnormal conditions. Users can access the data via a web interface or mobile application, providing convenience and enhancing safety through remote monitoring. This module ensures that users are always informed about the status of their LPG cylinders, even when not physically present. The integration facilitates real-time tracking, data logging, and comprehensive analysis over time.

Components Used in IoT-Based System for Monitoring LPG Fuel Cylinder Levels and Detecting Leaks :

Power Supply Module

AC Transformer: Converts 220V AC to 24V AC for the circuit.

Diodes: Rectifies AC voltage to DC voltage.

Capacitor: Smooths the rectified DC voltage.

Voltage Regulators (LM7812, LM7805): Provides stable 12V and 5V DC output respectively.

Microcontroller Module

ESP32: Manages the entire system, processes sensor data, and connects to IoT platforms.

Display Module

LCD Display: Shows real-time data like LPG level and leak status.

Sensing Module

Load Cell: Measures the weight of the LPG cylinder to determine the remaining gas level.

HX711 Amplifier: Increases the signal from the load cell for accurate reading by the microcontroller.

Alert Module

Buzzer: Provides an audio alert in case of LPG leak detection.

Other Possible Projects Using this Project Kit:

1. Smart Water Quality Monitoring System

Utilizing the components of the IoT-based LPG monitoring system, a smart water quality monitoring system can be developed. The kit includes sensors, an ESP microcontroller, and a display unit. By integrating water quality sensors (such as pH, turbidity, and temperature sensors), the system can continuously monitor the water quality in real time. Data collected by the sensors can be sent to the ESP microcontroller, which processes and displays the information on the LCD screen. Additionally, the system can be connected to a cloud platform where the data can be accessed remotely through a web interface or a mobile application. Alerts can be set up to notify users when water quality parameters go beyond the acceptable range, ensuring safe and clean water supply.

2. Home Automation System with Voice Control

The components in the IoT-based LPG fuel cylinder monitoring kit can also be used to create a home automation system with voice control capabilities. The ESP microcontroller can be programmed to control various appliances in the home such as lights, fans, and security systems. By integrating a voice recognition module, users can issue voice commands to control these appliances. The system can be expanded to include remote control via a smartphone app, allowing users to manage their appliances from anywhere. The integration of sensors can also enhance functionality, such as using motion sensors for automatic lighting or temperature sensors for climate control.

3. Environmental Monitoring and Data Logging System

Another potential project using this kit is an environmental monitoring and data logging system. By replacing the gas sensor with air quality sensors, temperature, and humidity sensors, the system can monitor environmental conditions in real time. The ESP microcontroller processes the data and displays it on the LCD screen. This data can also be logged and uploaded to a cloud server for long-term analysis. Users can access the data through a web interface to monitor trends and take necessary actions to improve environmental conditions. This system can be used in various settings, including homes, offices, and industrial environments, to ensure a healthy and safe atmosphere.

4. Smart Agriculture System

Leveraging the IoT technology from the LPG monitoring kit, a smart agriculture system can be developed. By integrating soil moisture sensors, temperature sensors, and light sensors, the system can provide crucial data to farmers about the condition of their fields. The ESP microcontroller collects this data and displays it on the LCD screen, while also transmitting it to a cloud platform for remote monitoring. Automated irrigation systems can be controlled based on the sensor data to ensure optimal watering of crops. Alerts can be configured to notify farmers of any issues such as dry soil or extreme weather conditions, helping to increase the efficiency and yield of agricultural operations.

5. Smart Parking Management System

The components from the LPG monitoring system kit can be utilized to create a smart parking management system. By incorporating ultrasonic sensors to detect the presence of vehicles, the system can monitor the occupancy of parking spaces in real time. The ESP microcontroller processes the data from the sensors and displays the availability of parking spaces on an LCD screen. This information can also be transmitted to a mobile application or a web portal, allowing users to check for available parking spots remotely. The system can be further enhanced by integrating a payment solution, enabling automated billing for parking services. This can help streamline parking management and improve the user experience for drivers.