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BLOG · 22/7/2026

Level 2

Task no. : 1 :- Smart Irrigation System

###Objective: Automate plant watering based on soil moisture levels.

This system behaves like a smart caretaker for plants. The soil moisture sensor constantly checks how wet or dry the soil is. When the soil becomes too dry (crosses the set threshold), the ESP32 instantly reacts by switching ON the relay. This relay acts like a switch that opens the solenoid valve, allowing water to flow to the plant.

Once the soil absorbs enough water and becomes moist again, the sensor detects this change. The ESP32 then turns OFF the relay, closing the solenoid valve and stopping the water supply.

The soil moisture sensor acts as the diagnostic tool for the setup by measuring the physical properties of the earth. Typically using capacitive sensing, it detects changes in the soil's dielectric constant; wet soil increases capacitance, while dry soil lowers it. This change is converted into an analog voltage signal that is continuously polled by the ESP32. When the soil becomes too dry, the voltage crosses the programmed threshold, instructing the microcontroller to initiate the watering sequence.

To safely activate the water flow, the ESP32 sends a digital control signal to trigger the electromechanical relay. This module uses the low-power signal to energize an internal magnetic coil, which physically pulls a metal switch closed with an audible "click." Closing this switch completes a separate, high-power circuit dedicated to the solenoid valve. Once the sensor detects sufficient moisture, the ESP32 cuts the signal, the magnetic coil de-energizes, and the switch snaps open, stopping the water flow while keeping the microcontroller completely isolated from the heavy electrical load of the valve.

Task 2 : Smart parking system

Objective : Monitor parking space availability using ultrasonic sensors.

This smart parking system works like an automatic parking attendant. Each parking slot has an ultrasonic sensor that continuously checks whether a car is present by measuring distance. When a vehicle comes close to the sensor, the ESP32 identifies the slot as occupied. This status is instantly sent over Wi-Fi to the Blynk app the platform that i have used for this task.

On the mobile app, LEDs turn ON and labels update to show “Slot Occupied” or “Not Occupied” in real time. If the car leaves the parking space, the distance increases and the system automatically updates the app. This allows users or parking managers to monitor parking availability remotely without manual checking. Though it has some draw backs it just works fine.

Task 3 – Smart Street Lighting with Node-RED Dashboard

Objective: Create a Smart Street Lighting System and get real-time operational data using a Node-RED dashboard.

This smart street lighting system works like an intelligent city light controller. The LDR continuously checks whether it is day or night by sensing ambient light. When it becomes dark, the system stays alert but keeps the street light dimmed or OFF to save power. As soon as a pedestrian or vehicle is detected by the PIR sensor, the ESP32 instantly turns the street light ON using a relay.

At the same time, all sensor readings and light status are sent wirelessly to a Node-RED dashboard through MQTT. The dashboard shows live light intensity, motion detection, and lamp status, allowing real-time monitoring. Once motion stops, the light automatically turns OFF again, ensuring energy-efficient and smart street illumination. Add fun working with it!

Task 4 – Intro to RFID and Attendance Logger

Objective: Understand RFID technology and learn to log data on cloud platforms.

This system that i built works like a digital attendance register. Each person carries an RFID card with a unique ID. When the card is brought near the RFID reader, the ESP32 instantly reads its identity. In the first part, this ID is simply displayed on the serial monitor to understand how RFID works. Metro card uses a slight advanced technology for the same so the UID's cant be read that easily but yeah was able to read other card.

In the second part, the same card ID is sent through Wi-Fi to Google Sheets, where it is stored along with the current time. This removes the need for manual attendance marking. The entire process is fast, contactless, and automatically stored in the cloud, making it suitable for classrooms, offices, and secure entry systems. Initially each UID should be associated with specefic candidate name.

Task 5 – House Security System

Objective: Create a security system to detect motion, capture intruder images, and trigger an alert.

The task was designed to be workaround esp32's cam module . This security system works by separating sensing, vision, and intelligence. The cam continuously monitors and a PIR motion sensor placed near the entrance. When motion is detected, the ESP32 sends a real-time signal to the Blynk cloud. A Python application running on a computer listens for this signal. Once triggered, Python logic triggers.

Task 6 – Red Light Green Light Game (Squid Game)

Objective: Build a motion detection game using image processing and sound effects.

This project recreates the “Red Light Green Light” using computer vision. An ESP32-CAM or mobile camera streams live video to a Python program. The game alternates between GREEN and RED light states at fixed intervals. During GREEN light, the player is allowed to move and earns progress points. During RED light, OpenCV detects motion using frame-difference analysis. If motion is detected during RED light, the player is eliminated instantly. Visual indicators and a score bar provide real-time game feedback. This project demonstrates motion detection, game logic, and vision-based control. If a buzzer is included it makes things interesting.

UVCE,
K. R Circle,
Bengaluru 01