1. [image] MoE's INNOVATION CELL (GOVERNMENT OF INDIA).
2. Identification of the Problem. Urban areas often face challenges in efficient waste management, especially regarding the timely collection of garbage from public and private dustbins. The problem of overflowing bins, improper waste collection schedules, and inefficient allocation of waste collection resources leads to environmental pollution, unsanitary conditions, and an increase in operational costs. Waste collection services are often scheduled based on estimated collection times, regardless of whether the dustbins are full or not. This leads to inefficiencies where some bins are collected prematurely while others are left overflowing, creating unhygienic conditions. There is a lack of real-time monitoring, which could enable authorities to optimize the collection process, reduce operational costs, and improve the overall cleanliness of public spaces..
3. Innovative Solution. Brief description:- The proposed system is an intelligent garbage monitoring solution that uses ultrasonic sensors installed on dustbins to monitor the fill level in real-time. The system will send this data via NodeMCU (a microcontroller equipped with Wi-Fi capabilities) to a cloud-based server where the data can be analyzed. If the sensor detects that a dustbin is full or nearing its capacity, an automated alert will be sent to the relevant authorities or waste management operators, prompting them to arrange for timely waste collection. Garbage monitoring system is one that identifies fullness of the bin using a Wireless Sensor Network (WSN). It provides a web interface to the cleaning authority so that they can monitor and clean the garbage bin..
Technologies used in the project: Communication Technologies: a. Wi-Fi (802.11) Purpose: To transmit the sensor data from NodeMCU to a cloud server or centralized system. Why: Wi-Fi is widely available and provides sufficient speed for sending small amounts of data (like sensor readings) at regular intervals. Cloud/Server Technologies: a. Cloud Platform (NODEspeak) Purpose: To host the backend server that stores and processes data from multiple dustbins. Why: Cloud platforms provide scalable and reliable infrastructure to store and process data, and offer services for real-time monitoring and notifications..
Novelty of the Solution : Many traditional waste management systems rely on static schedules for waste collection, regardless of the actual fill levels of the dustbins. By integrating ultrasonic sensors into the bins to measure the fill level in real time, this system introduces dynamic waste monitoring, enabling more efficient collection based on actual needs rather than estimated schedules. By integrating IoT devices (such as NodeMCU for communication), the system connects everyday objects (the dustbins) to the internet, creating a smart waste management network. The system doesn’t just monitor the waste levels; it also sends data to a cloud server where it is processed and analyzed in real-time. Using low-cost ultrasonic sensors combined with NodeMCU microcontrollers, the system offers a low-cost, scalable solution for cities of any size. The project's novelty extends beyond technology into its positive environmental and social impact. By reducing waste overflow and inefficient waste collection routes, it helps in maintaining cleaner, healthier urban environments and reduces the carbon footprint associated with waste management operations. Stage of the development of the solution/Prototype: Currently we are at making of the prototype for the project..
6. Competition Analysis. Feature/Characteristic Our Garbage Monitoring System Bigbelly Enevo Compology SmartBin Sensor Type Ultrasonic Sensor (for fill level) Ultrasonic + Solar Compaction Ultrasonic Ultrasonic + Camera Ultrasonic Power Source Solar/Battery (optional) Solar-powered Battery Battery Solar (optional) Real-Time Monitoring Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Route Optimization Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Alert System Real-time notifications to authorities Real-time notifications Real-time notifications Real-time + AI alerts Real-time notifications Data Analytics Cloud-based + historical data Basic analytics Advanced analytics AI-powered, Visual + Sensor Data Basic analytics.
Deployment Cost Low cost (using NodeMCU, sensors) High (due to solar compacting) Medium to High High (camera-based) Low Scalability High (low cost, easily scalable) Medium (due to infrastructure cost) High Medium (camera/tech heavy) High (simple solution) Target Market Urban & Rural areas High-density urban areas Urban & Rural areas High-density urban areas Urban & Rural areas Additional Features Predictive Data Analytics (Future enhancement) Solar compacting bins Advanced analytics & sensor integration Waste contamination detection Route optimization & basic analytics Differentiation/Novelty Low-cost, scalable solution with predictive analytics, simple IoT integration, flexibility for rural areas Advanced compaction tech Focus on customizability, detailed reports Combines camera + sensors, AI-driven insights Low-cost, simple solution for fast implementation.
8. Target Market. Municipal Corporations / Smart Cities Commercial Establishments Industrial Parks / Factories Educational Institutions / Campuses Hospitals and Healthcare Centers Waste Management Services Providers Corporate ESG & Sustainability Programs Government & NGO Environmental Projects.
Prototype Development. Objectives: To automate and optimize waste collection schedules based on actual fill levels rather than estimates. To prevent waste overflow by providing real-time alerts to authorities. To reduce environmental pollution and improve sanitation in urban spaces by ensuring timely waste disposal. Basic Concept: The project is based on monitoring the fill level of dustbins in real time using ultrasonic sensors and IoT connectivity (NodeMCU + server). Materials used:- Hardware Components: a. Ultrasonic Sensor (HC-SR04) Purpose: Used to measure the distance to the garbage level inside the dustbin. Ultrasonic sensors work by emitting sound waves and measuring the time it takes for the sound waves to bounce back, allowing them to calculate the distance. b. NodeMCU (ESP8266/ESP32) Purpose: Microcontroller with built-in Wi-Fi capabilities to collect data from the ultrasonic sensor and transmit it to the cloud server. c. Dustbin/Container (Custom Built or Existing) Purpose: The physical structure where the ultrasonic sensor is mounted for real-time monitoring..
Power Supply: a. Battery or Solar Power Purpose: To power the NodeMCU and sensor, especially if the dustbins are placed in outdoor locations where electricity may not be readily available. Communication Technologies: a. Wi-Fi (802.11) Purpose: To transmit the sensor data from NodeMCU to a cloud server or centralized system. Cloud/Server Technologies: a. Cloud Platform (NODEspeak) Purpose: To host the backend server that stores and processes data from multiple dustbins. KEY FEATURES : Real-Time Monitoring IoT-Based Smart Technology Automatic Alerts Simple and Clear Status Optimized Waste Collection Cost-Effective and Energy Efficient Scalable Design Supports Clean Environment Future Scope – Data Analytics.
User Testing: Conduct user tests to check if the project is able to check the overflow of the dustbins and accordingly able to inform the people. Testing Process Installation Phase Place the smart dustbin in a chosen area (e.g., society, campus, or street corner). Connect the sensor, NodeMCU, and server for live monitoring. Functionality Testing Check if the ultrasonic sensor correctly detects empty, half-full, and full levels. Verify that NodeMCU sends the correct data to the server. Test the alerts/notifications when the bin reaches threshold level. Usability Testing Ask workers if the alerts and dashboard are clear and easy to understand. Ensure that notifications are timely and not confusing..
4. Performance Testing Observe how the system works at different times (day/night, high/low waste generation). Check response speed between bin full → alert received → garbage collected. 5. Feedback Collection Gather feedback from workers, residents, and authorities about ease of use, cleanliness improvement, and system reliability. Refinement: Improve the sensor sensing ability with more areas to cover. Feedback: Users may report that the sensor is not able to sense the overflow. You’ll get feedback on usability, reliability, efficiency, cleanliness impact, cost, and future improvements. Final Steps: After testing, the product can be refined for full-scale production, using higher-quality materials and adding more features. Analyze Feedback Implement Refinements Technical fixes → Improve sensor accuracy, reduce false readings, ensure stable Wi-Fi connection. Usability improvements → Make dashboard/app more user-friendly, clearer alerts. System Validation.
13. Resource Mobilisation Plan. Resource Type Example / Requirement Source of Mobilization Usage in Project Human Resources Students (team), Mentor/Guide, End Users (workers, residents) Project team, school/college, local community Designing, coding, testing, feedback collection Technical Resources Ultrasonic Sensor (HC-SR04), NodeMCU, wires, breadboard, dustbin, power supply Purchase from electronics store/online (Amazon, Robu, etc.) Hardware setup and garbage level detection Software Resources Arduino IDE, IoT platform (ThingSpeak/Firebase/Blynk), Mobile dashboard/app Free/open-source software, cloud platforms Programming, data transfer, monitoring Financial Resources For prototype components Self-funding, school project funds, NGO/municipality support Buying hardware components and cloud services Infrastructure Resources Lab/Workshop, Internet connection, Testing Area (society/campus/street) School/college lab, home Wi-Fi, local municipality permission Assembly, coding, and real-world testing Time Resources 6–8 weeks total (Planning, Setup, Testing, Refinement) Project schedule and team management Timely execution and project completion.
Phase 1: Problem Identification & Planning Identify the problem of overflowing dustbins and inefficient garbage collection. Define project objectives → real-time monitoring, timely alerts, optimized collection. Prepare resource mobilization plan (human, technical, financial, infrastructure). Phase 2: System Design Draw block diagram and circuit design. Select suitable components → Ultrasonic sensor, NodeMCU, dustbin, power source. Decide software platform → Arduino IDE for coding, IoT server (ThingSpeak). Phase 3: Prototype Development Assemble hardware (fix ultrasonic sensor on bin, connect with NodeMCU). Write and upload Arduino code to NodeMCU. Connect NodeMCU with Wi-Fi and test server communication..
Phase 4: Testing & Validation Place the smart dustbin in a real environment. Check if system correctly detects empty, half, full levels. Verify alerts are sent to dashboard/app on time. Test performance in different conditions (day/night, frequent/slow garbage fill). Phase 5: User Testing & Feedback Collect feedback from: Workers/Authorities → usability, accuracy, time-saving. Residents/Public → cleanliness improvement. Note strengths, weaknesses, and suggestions for improvement. Phase 6: Refinement Fix technical issues (false alerts, Wi-Fi disconnection, sensor calibration). Improve usability (clearer dashboard, simple notifications). Add durability features (waterproof casing, stable power supply). Phase 7: Final Deployment Document the entire project (report, diagrams, results). Demonstrate final prototype in school/college or community. If successful, scale to multiple bins in societies, campuses, or municipalities..
16. Fund Requirements. S.NO Item / Material Cost 1 Node MCU 1 COST=200 RUPEES (4 REQUIRED ) = 200*4=800 2 Ultrasonic sensors 1 COST = 70 RUPEES (4 REQUIRED)=70*2=140 3 Router 1 COST= 1000 RUPEES (1 REQUIRED)=1000 4 Batteries 1 COST=40 RUPEES (4 REQUIRED)=40*4=160 5 WIRES , SOLDERING KIT 1 COST=500 RUPEES ( 1 REQUIRED)=500 Total 2600 FOR ONE PROTOTYPE REQUIRED 2 =2600*2=5200.
17. Team. Both the team members contributes equally to the project. I Divyam focuses on the technologies , components . And my teammate- Hridik, focuses on the survey, gathering feedback, cloud management and handling data..
18. Contact Details. Team Lead / Teacher Name: Priyanka Gaur Email id:[email protected] Mobile Number:7982485685.