This project introduces an IoT-controlled smart distribution box designed for enhanced energy management and convenience, boasting versatile features for both online and offline usage. Utilizing a NodeMCU microcontroller unit, the system integrates a 4-channel relay for load management via voice commands (Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa), manual switches, and programmable timers and schedules. An LCD 2004 display provides real-time feedback, while a PZEM004T sensor enables precise energy monitoring. Users can also set load limits, with notifications sent when thresholds are reached, further enhancing efficiency and safety. With these comprehensive capabilities, the system empowers users to optimize energy usage, promote sustainability, and simplify control of electrical appliances in residential and commercial settings.
Introduction
This project involves designing and implementing a smart energy meter that measures power consumption and communicates with a control center via the Internet. It also features the ability to disable electrical loads based on electricity price and demand, addressing several challenges in current electricity infrastructure, such as lack of real-time data, manual meter reading, limited control, energy theft, and high operational costs.
Key Components and Functions:
Energy Meter – Measures voltage, power, and energy units; interfaces with microcontroller/Wi-Fi module.
Current Sensor – Monitors real-time current; connected via ADC.
Wi-Fi Module – Acts as the controller and communication hub (e.g., ESP8266/ESP32).
OLED Display – Displays real-time energy data; connected via I2C/SPI.
Power Supply – Provides regulated power to all components.
Driver Circuit – Switches the load on/off (e.g., relay or MOSFET), controlled by the Wi-Fi module.
Load – The appliance being monitored and controlled.
Design Considerations:
Calibration is necessary for accuracy.
Safety is critical when interfacing with high voltage.
Voltage readings are sometimes omitted in simpler power meters, which assume a constant voltage.
The prototype is intended for academic use and was built using insights from existing research papers.
References
[1] Wendt, Z. (2020, March 6). Solid State vs. Electromechanical Relays. Retrieved from https://www.arrow.com/en/research-and-events/articles/crydom-solid-state-relays-vs-electromechanical-relays
[2] Open Energy Monitor .(n.d.). Retrieved from https://learn.openenergymonitor.org/electricity- monitoring/voltage-sensing/acac-component-tolerances
[3] Electrical Relay and Solid State Relays. (2018, February 11). Retrieved from https://www.electronics-tutorials.ws/io/io_5.html
[4] Open Energy Monitor .(n.d.). Retrieved from https://learn.openenergymonitor.org/electricity-monitoring/voltage-sensing/measuring-voltage-with-an-acac-power-adapter
[5] Stream Data from Arduino into Excel. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://create.arduino.cc/projecthub/HackingSTEM/stream-data-from-arduino-into-excel- f1bede