IoT Based Environmental Monitoring System Architecture

Introduction

IoT-based environmental monitoring systems use interconnected sensors to collect real-time data on environmental factors. These factors include air and water quality, temperature, and humidity. These systems are vital for the early detection of environmental hazards and supporting data-driven decision-making. They also ensure compliance with environmental regulations, contributing to environmental conservation and public health protection.

Environmental Monitoring System Components

The system consists of various sensors installed at different locations to sense environmental parameters. The sensors are installed with a Microcontroller Unit (MCU) such as ESP32 or another microcontroller or microprocessor. The MCU board requires a DC power supply, provided by an AC/DC converter.

The MCU board houses wireless System on Chips (SoCs) such as WiFi or other cellular standards (GSM, 4G LTE, 5G, etc.). Using this wireless connectivity, data collected by sensors is uploaded to a cloud server. There are many cloud servers available, such as Google Firebase, Microsoft Azure, and AWS. Web portals and mobile apps read the data from the cloud and provide useful insights into any deviations from normal readings. Environmental management strategies check the data collected by sensors using mobile and web apps.

The following are common sensors employed to monitor various environmental parameters:

• Temperature sensors: Texas Instruments TMP Series (TMP36 - analog output and TMP102 - digital output), Maxim DS18B20 digital temperature sensor.
• Humidity sensors: Sensirion SHT series (SHT35 - analog output, SHT31 - digital output), Silicon Labs Si70xx sensor
• Pressure sensors: Bosch BMP series (BMP180, BMP280) offer barometric pressure, Honeywell HSC series
• Gas sensors: Alphasense series offers electrochemical gas sensors to detect gases such as CO, NO2, SO2, and O3. Winsen ZE series produces electrochemical gas sensors.
• Particle sensors: Plantower PMS series, Sensirion SPS30
• Light sensors: TAOS TSL series offers ambient light sensing, Vishay VEML series
• Sound sensors: Knowles SP series, PUI Audio PMM Series
• Water Quality sensors: EZO series sensors offer a range of sensors to measure pH, DO, conductivity, etc., in water.

Benefits or Advantages of Environmental Monitoring System

Following are the benefits or advantages of the environmental monitoring system:

1. It provides a comprehensive view of environmental conditions, monitoring numerous environmental parameters such as air quality, soil health, water quality, temperature, humidity, wind speed, rainfall, etc.
2. It offers real-time insights as IoT sensors continuously collect data. This allows for prompt action during natural disasters or emergencies.
3. IoT-based systems are cost-effective due to their scalability and reduced manpower requirements.
4. The data can be accessed remotely using web portals and Android/iOS mobile applications.
5. The system functions as an early warning for various environmental hazards, such as chemical leaks, pollution, and natural disasters.
6. It provides highly accurate and reliable data, ensuring qualified decision-making.
7. It helps conserve natural resources, protect ecosystems, and promote sustainability.
8. The collected data can be analyzed to identify trends/patterns to predict/forecast changes in the environment.
9. It helps companies comply with environmental regulations and standards by providing accurate data on emissions, pollutants, and other impacts.
10. It can raise public awareness, helping engage communities in environmental stewardship efforts.

Conclusion

Overall, IoT-based environmental monitoring systems play a crucial role in monitoring, managing, and protecting the environment, contributing to sustainable development and the well-being of both present and future generations.