Introduction

This project addresses the challenge of uninterrupted power supply management in residential settings. The system automatically monitors grid power availability and seamlessly switches to a backup diesel generator when the grid fails. It integrates real-time energy monitoring via the PZEM-004T sensor, fuel level tracking, temperature monitoring, and GSM-based SMS notifications for critical events such as low fuel warnings and generator faults. All data is logged to Firebase for remote monitoring through a web dashboard.

System Overview

Aim and Objectives

Aim:
Design and develop a smart home energy monitoring system with automatic generator control for seamless power supply management.

Objectives:

• Monitor real-time electrical parameters (voltage, current, power, energy, frequency, power factor) using PZEM-004T.
• Detect grid power failure and automatically start the backup generator.
• Track fuel level and send SMS alerts when fuel is low or insufficient.
• Monitor generator temperature for overheat protection.
• Log all data to Firebase Realtime Database for remote monitoring.
• Support both Automatic and Manual operating modes.

Features & Deliverables

• Automatic Generator Control: Detects grid failure and starts the generator automatically with starter motor relay control.
• Real-Time Energy Monitoring: Tracks voltage, current, power, energy, frequency, and power factor via PZEM-004T.
• Fuel Level Monitoring: Analog fuel sensor tracks diesel level with low-fuel and insufficient-fuel alerts.
• Temperature Monitoring: MCP9808 sensor monitors generator temperature to prevent overheating.
• SMS Notifications: SIM800L GSM module sends critical alerts for low fuel, generator faults, and status updates.
• Cloud Dashboard: Firebase Realtime Database enables remote monitoring through a web interface.
• LCD Display: 20x4 LCD provides local real-time status display.
• Dual Mode Operation: Supports Automatic and Manual switching modes.

Process / Methodology

Hardware Assembly

Components: ESP32, PZEM-004T v3.0, SIM800L GSM, MCP9808 Temperature Sensor, 20x4 LCD (I2C), Relay Modules (Generator ON/OFF, Starter Motor), Fuel Level Sensor, LED Indicators, Buzzer.

• Assembled and integrated all sensors with the ESP32 microcontroller.
• Configured relay circuits for generator starter motor and main power switching.
• Connected grid input and generator output voltage sensing circuits.

Software Development

• Developed firmware in Arduino IDE with WiFi connectivity and Firebase integration.
• Implemented automatic grid failure detection and generator startup sequence.
• Programmed fuel level monitoring with configurable threshold alerts.
• Integrated SIM800L GSM module for SMS notification system.

Testing & Calibration

• Tested grid-to-generator switchover timing and reliability.
• Calibrated fuel level sensor readings for accurate percentage display.
• Validated SMS delivery for all critical alert scenarios.

Challenges & Solutions

• Challenge: Reliable grid failure detection without false triggers.
  Solution: Implemented voltage threshold monitoring with debounce timing to avoid false positives from momentary fluctuations.
• Challenge: Generator startup sequencing with proper relay timing.
  Solution: Programmed sequential relay activation with appropriate delays for fuel pump priming and starter motor engagement.
• Challenge: GSM module power requirements causing system instability.
  Solution: Used dedicated power regulation for the SIM800L module with adequate capacitor filtering.

Results & Impact

• Seamless Switchover: Achieved reliable automatic switching between grid and generator power.
• Real-Time Alerts: SMS notifications delivered within seconds of critical events.
• Remote Monitoring: Firebase dashboard provided comprehensive real-time system status.
• Energy Awareness: Detailed energy consumption data helped optimize power usage patterns.

Future Enhancements

• Add mobile app for remote generator control and monitoring.
• Integrate solar panel input as a third power source option.
• Implement predictive maintenance alerts based on generator runtime hours.
• Add historical energy consumption analytics and cost estimation.

Demonstration / Access

• GitHub Repository: Coming soon
• Live Demonstration Video: Coming soon

Thank You for Visiting My Portfolio

I sincerely appreciate you taking the time to explore my portfolio and learn about my work and expertise. If you have any questions or wish to discuss potential collaborations, please feel free to reach out via the Contact section.

Best regards,
Damilare Lekan, Adekeye.