Energy-saving wireless bidirectional people counter with notification and data systems

ABSTRACT: In 2020, Philippines succumbed to the pandemic brough by the COVID-19 virus. Businesses were forced to shut down and lockdown protocols, like social distancing and limited capacity, were implemented. Despite closing of recreational establishments, electricity consumption in households spiked since people were mandated to stay at home and have virtual setup for employees and students. With these in mind, the researchers conducted a study on the development of Energy-Saving Wireless Bidirectional People Counter with Notification and Data Storing Systems to aid people in making energy-saving efforts, implementing maximum capacity of establishments, and providing information to business owners about their foot traffic. The prototype utilized ultrasonic sensors for detecting the number of people entering and leaving an area, light dependent resistor for detecting ample amount of light energy present in an area, LED lights and speaker for notification and alarm systems, relay modules for controlling the connected bulb and fan, and Arduino Uno for controlling the other components of the prototype. Through the data from the prototype, the bulb and fan were controlled; when there was human presence in an area, the bulb and fan was on the otherwise, off. The prototype was 100% accurate in controlling the LED lights, alarm, bulb and fan. On the other hand, a success rate of 86.27% and an error of 13.72% regarding the usage of ultrasonic sensors was recorded. Overall, the prototype was able to save energy and return on investment was proven to be theoretically possible if the controlled loads are 36-Watt bulb and 48-Watt fan or higher.

Filipiniana