Automatic Temperature Controlled Cooling System
Undergraduate Project
Principal Supervisors
Group Members
- Indushan Senavirathna
- Mahanama R.M.I.K
- Nuwarawewa S.W.N.W.B.B
Successfully completed a project based on the embedded system design module, focusing on the development of a temperature-based automatic fan speed controller. This system effectively regulates the speed of an electric fan in accordance with the temperature of the system. By utilizing embedded technology and implementing a closed-loop feedback control system, we have enhanced the overall efficiency and reliability of the system. The Atmega328p microcontroller was chosen for its ability to provide fast and dynamic control. The temperature data is sensed and displayed in real-time on an LCD panel, allowing for a more user-friendly experience.
This project aligns with the core objective of automatic control technology, which is to advance control techniques for improved system performance. By automating the fan speed control, we eliminate the need for manual adjustments by individuals. Traditionally, users would manually adjust the fan speed based on temperature variations, with lower speeds in cooler conditions and higher speeds in warmer situations. However, our proposed solution employs a circuit design that integrates a brushless DC motor, DHT11 temperature sensor, Atmega328p microcontroller, and various other electronic components. The DHT11 temperature sensor accurately senses temperature and converts it into a digital signal, which is then processed by the microcontroller. Additionally, we incorporate an LCD display to provide simultaneous temperature and fan speed feedback. Rigorous testing has confirmed the flawless operation and reliability of our developed circuit system.
Our implementation focuses on the development of a portable automatic cooling pad specifically designed for laptops, utilizing embedded technology. However, the versatility of this design enables its application in various scenarios, including air-conditioners, water heaters, snow-melters, ovens, heat exchangers, mixers, and more. By employing the Atmega328p microcontroller, we achieve comprehensive control over all system functions.
- Use of embedded C programming language for coding and programming the Atmega328p microcontroller.
- Implementation of pulse width modulation (PWM) technique for controlling the speed of the brushless DC motor.
- Integration of a DHT11 temperature sensor for accurate temperature measurement.
- Calibration and tuning of the control algorithm to ensure smooth and precise fan speed adjustment based on temperature.
- Design and construction of the circuit board and electrical connections for proper functioning of the system.
- Development of a power supply unit to provide the necessary voltage and current requirements for the circuit.
- Analysis and selection of suitable electronic components and sensors based on their specifications and compatibility with the microcontroller.
- Testing and validation of the system under various temperature conditions to ensure accurate temperature sensing and reliable fan speed control.
- Documentation of the project, including circuit diagrams, code explanations, and user manuals, for future reference and replication.
- Potential for further improvements and expansions, such as integrating additional sensors for multi-parameter control or incorporating wireless communication capabilities for remote monitoring and control.
Skills
- Embedded systems design and programming using microcontrollers like Atmega328p.
- C programming language for embedded systems.
- Circuit design and construction.
- Understanding and implementation of closed-loop feedback control systems.
- Integration of sensors, specifically the DHT11 temperature sensor
- Pulse width modulation (PWM) for motor speed control.
- Calibration and tuning of control algorithms.
- Testing and validation of the system under various conditions.
- Documentation of the project, including circuit diagrams and code explanations.
- Problem-solving and troubleshooting skills in an embedded systems context.
- Circuit design and schematic capture
- Through-hole component selection and placement
- PCB layout and design with a focus on through-hole components
- Proficiency in through-hole soldering techniques
- Familiarity with through-hole component types and their specifications
- Understanding of through-hole PCB fabrication processes
- Ability to read and interpret through-hole component datasheets and technical specifications
- Knowledge of electrical safety practices and ESD (electrostatic discharge) precautions in handling through-hole components
- Troubleshooting and repair of circuits using through-hole components and PCBs
- Familiarity with through-hole component removal techniques (desoldering).