DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT OF AN IoT SMART OUTLET

By:

JEWIN ADRIAN C. BONCODIN

BENJO B. BERMUNDO

MICHAEL LAWRENCE A. AMANTE

 Chapter 1

INTRODUCTION

In the modern world, electricity is the lifeblood that powers countless aspects of daily

life, from lighting our homes to driving complex industrial machinery. As electricity usage has

surged in recent decades, it has driven technological advancements across various sectors,

including household conveniences and scientific research. This increase has also spurred

innovations in electrical safety devices like circuit breakers and convenience outlets. Among

these advancements, smart home devices, particularly smart outlet switches, have gained

popularity for offering greater control, energy efficiency, and security.

Geofencing technology, combined with IoT capabilities, enhances home automation by

triggering actions based on a user’s location. For instance, geofenced smart outlet switches can

automatically activate lights or heating when a user approaches their home, improving

convenience and energy efficiency. The integration of Bluetooth, WiFi, and geofencing allows

for seamless, context-aware automation. Consequently, the rapid technological growth has

transformed traditional devices into advanced smart versions, enhancing daily life and energy

management.

This research aims to innovate and implement a cost-effective, open-source IoT smart

outlet switch featuring Bluetooth, Wi-Fi connectivity and geofencing capabilities.

According to previous study, IoT-based Smart Outlet Switch is powered by Arduino uno

OS. Which has lack of built in communications, as Arduino uno do not come with Bluetooth or

WiFi. There is no built-in functionality on an Arduino to run multiple sketches at the same time.

Typically, an operating system provides this multitasking functionality such as the Raspberry Pi

OS for the Raspberry Pi., The project will develop a hardware for a smart outlet switch using the
ESP32 NodeMCU and a relay module to control electrical devices. ESP32 NodeMCU, a

powerful and versatile microcontroller and the Raspberry Pi, a popular single-board computer, to

create a robust and flexible system.

The IoT-based Smart Outlet Switch also enhances the overload and vampire current

interruption. It automatically cuts off power to devices drawing vampire current, conserving

energy, and provides overcurrent protection by detecting and addressing hazardous power

surges. Researchers have added new features, including a Raspberry Pi for managing geofencing

logic to turn off the outlet when a device is left on based on the user's location. The device uses

alarm notifications to communicate actions to the outlet. It connects also to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

for remote control via a web interface or mobile app, making it practical for households with

WiFi and Bluetooth connections. Additionally, energy usage is monitored through a graphical

chart in the EspHome app, aiding in energy management and savings.

LITERATURE REVIEW

According to (Prayongpun, N.) a common home consists of some electrical loads such as

lighting, laundry appliances, kitchen appliances, climate control equipment, etc. All devices

consume a lot electric power despite of being on their standby mode. This low-cost smart plus

with the use of algorithm is implemented for monitoring and controlling of energy consumption,

it is possible to use ZigBee concept to implement wireless communication between smart plus

device and the embedded base server for monitoring and controlling of electric consumption.

An article on Tom's Guide by Spadafora and Mortram (2023) lists the best smart plugs for

2023. The top three (3) have easy-to-use, convenient features. The TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi

Mini Plug EP10, Wemo Smart Plug, and Ring Outdoor Smart Plug are these three. Comparable

characteristics amongst them include wireless on/off switching, power scheduling, voice
controllability, and connectivity with Google Home and Alexa. Nevertheless, the Wemo Smart

Plug lacks energy monitoring. While they have different price points and uses (such an outdoor

smart outlet), the other smart plugs in the article offer the same features.

Massive vacuum tube-based processing units comprised the initial generation of computers

Basumallick, C. (2022). More affordable and smaller versions of the eventual design of a

computer have emerged over time. These days, we carry along pocket-sized minicomputer

devices like cellphones. Computers are still not extensively available in developing nations,

despite their increasing commonplaceness. The Raspberry Pi computer was developed as a result

of this disparity in access to computers and programming tools. People of all backgrounds and

skill levels can experience and learn to compute using the Raspberry Pi, a tiny, inexpensive,

credit card-sized single-board computer. It is an upgraded motherboard created by the Raspberry

in the United Kingdom.

As stated by Jitket, P. (20220) that the creation of a smart plug for the Internet of Things that

can detect energy and there is an example of home appliances' energy use can be tracked and

recorded with the suggested smart plug. Additionally, we use machine learning models based on.

Their paper has a set of features for the classification of electrical appliances and the

construction of an inexpensive Internet-of-things (IoT) smart plug is proposed. There are two

sections for their work. Measuring electricity utilization is the first task in this job. The

microcontroller and the affordable energy meter sensor are used to implement the smart plug.

Electrical power is measured using the real-time data from the sensor is read by the ESPino32.

The active power (W), reactive power (VAR), apparent power (VA), voltage (V), current (A),

energy (Wh), power factor (P.F.), frequency (Hz), and temperature of the smart plug are among

the characteristics that consumers can check regarding their power consumption.
 An article written by LinkedIn about smart plugs (2024) that the ability to fake occupancy

when you're away from home is one advantage of utilizing smart plugs and outlets for home

security. To create the impression that someone is home, timers or schedules can be used to

switch on and off lights, TVs, radios, and other appliances. Devices can also be turned on or off

based on your proximity to your house by using geofencing or location-based triggers. One

drawback of utilizing smart plugs and outlets for home security is the possibility of privacy and

data security breaches. They could be targets of virus, eavesdropping, or hacking assaults since

they are online.

The most improving things now a days is developing a study that provides a wirelessly

controllable intelligent power outlet system according to Fernández-Caramés (2015) specifically

intended to detect electrical occurrences in low-current loads. The system's primary functions are

the ability to remotely control the power outlet, monitor current consumption in real-time,

customize and program the power supply time schedule, automatically cut off vampire currents,

and prevent specific electrical fires also it identifies vampire currents and averting electrical

shocks that it offers a quick and adaptable way to upgrade and secure future dwellings.

Studies also showed that to power up electrical appliances, wall outlets are a common

household item Jing, S. (2020). Sometimes mistakenly leaving outlets switched on wastes

energy. Without the assistance of a measuring or monitoring instrument, detection is challenging.

The lack of easily accessible wall outlets for monitoring and regulating causes these problems.

Despite the existence of smart wall outlets, the majority of them are just plug-and-play devices

that can only be managed and monitored remotely via the same connection. This project

showcases a smart wall outlet system that uses the Internet of Things (IoT) and has a locking

mechanism to remotely monitor the use of electrical equipment plugged into the outlet. The
socket is an RFID reader is used as the input signal to obtain access. Through a unique mobile

application, the suggested solution gives customers real-time control and monitoring over their

energy usage.

STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

The researchers designed and developed an IoT smart outlet that offers connectivity with the

Smart Outlet which can be controlled remotely. Its design also offers power consumption

monitoring of the user. Specifically, the researchers aimed to answer the following questions;

1. What is the design of a Design & Development of an Iot Smart Outlet?

2. What is the reliability of the device in terms of;

2.1 Power Outlet Switching

2.2 Power Consumption Monitoring

2.3 Geofencing

2.4 Response-time

3. What is the acceptability of the device in terms of;

3.1 Functionality

3.2 Safety

3.3 Usability (Ease of use)

3.4 Cost

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

In today's rapidly advancing technological landscape, the design & development of an Iot

smart outlet is an indispensable device that provides a plethora of advantages that enhance

everyday living through the utilization of WiFi, energy management, and general ease. Electric

users may use the device to track their power usage and, with the help of blynk app, the device
remotely turn on and off from any location via internet. By cutting off power, it also provides

overcurrent protection and prevents energy dissipation. Additionally, the following will gain

from the device's development:

Electric Consumers (Residential Households)

They are thought to be the primary gainers from the developed gadget. The design &

development of an Iot smart outlet enables users to operate the device remotely from any

location by just tapping their smartphones to turn on or off any plugged-in device. This degree of

control makes daily chores and routines more convenient. It may also be integrated with other

devices, including lighting systems, to create a networked smart home. Additionally, the gadget

generates data on energy usage patterns via a smartphone, giving homeowners useful

information to assist them make informed decisions about their energy use.

Future Researchers

Researchers studying electrical and electronics with the use of IoT (Internet of Things) will be

able to refer to this work. The study's conclusions and insights lay the groundwork for future

studies to expand on the body of information and address fresh inquiries into certain facets of

IoT-based smart outlet switches. When evaluating the performance of more recent devices that

are related, this could be used as a standard. It's possible that later researchers will find holes in

the study, which they can use to investigate and make improvements. This will function as a

roadmap for advancing the study in relation to automation and the Internet of Things.

Electrical Engineering Students

Students can able to gather ideas for their research and broaden their knowledge on using the

IoT (Internet of Things). Furthermore, they acquire and enhance various skills and critical

thinking in the IoT, Studying IoT-based Smart Outlet Switches exposes supporters to cutting-
edge ideas and technology that can stimulate original thought and a greater comprehension of

current technological developments.

SCOPE AND DELIMITATION

The researcher’s goal of the design & development of an Iot smart outlet will only focus on

the remote-control capability, energy monitoring, geofencing, vampire electricity and

overcurrent interruption. The ESP32 Node MCU will have logic and an algorithm added by the

researchers to enable the device to operate automatically in the event of a vampire current

detection, when the user exits the range, and in conjunction with another program code to enable

complete feature integration.

The study is limited to customer families and will only use outlets that have a 20-amp

amperage. With the exception of devices like freezers, air conditioners, CCTV, and FDAS that

require a continuous power source, the study is solely applicable to plug-in household

appliances.

SYNTHESIS OF THE STATE OF THE ART

After examining related studies, it can be said that instead of using Arduino electrical

microcontrollers for better and more appropriate control, researchers are focusing on enhancing

geofencing using WiFi connectivity. The aforementioned materials emphasize how these outlets

can be connected to the internet and operated by cellphones using the Blynk app. Moreover,

earlier research has suggested strategies for cutting power usage, including energy planning,

scheduling, and vampire current interruption. By scheduling the outlet to operate within

predetermined time ranges, regardless of whether a device is plugged in, it is possible to limit the

amount of current it can give. The process of energy budgeting entails establishing a

consumption ceiling. However, when a device detects a vampire current, the microcontroller
notifies the relay to turn off the power. A vampire current is defined as current used by a device

while it is in standby mode.

The current features of this device are energy control, monitor power consumption, switch

on/off the device remotely, overcurrent protection energy wastage prevention by shutting of the

power, vampire and overcurrent interruption. The value of vampire current interruption as a

practical way to save energy when a device is turned off has only been mentioned in a very small

number of publications; this topic has mostly been ignored in the field of electrical research. The

newly features described in this paper provide wireless control with the assistance of a Raspberry

Pi, wireless control with the help of blynk app, application of geofencing with WiFi connectivity.

DEFINITION OF TERMS

Raspberry Pi

The Raspberry Pi is a single-board computer that is small, inexpensive, and very

adaptable. It may be used for a variety of projects and educational activities. It has several

digital and analogue input/output pins and other capabilities that let users connect sensors,

actuators, and other electronic parts. The Phyton programming language may be used to program

the board, which makes it user-friendly. The creation of the IoT Smart Outlet Switch will

incorporate the Raspberry Pi as the microcontroller unit.

WiFi and Bluetooth Module (ESP32 NodeMCU)

The ESP32 NodeMCU is a low-cost, low-power system on a chip (SoC) with integrated

Wi-Fi and dual-mode Bluetooth, designed for use in Internet of Things (IoT) applications. It is

widely used for DIY projects and prototyping. It will allow the IoT Smart Outlet Switch to

connect to the internet or communicate with one another wirelessly within a certain range.
Relay Module

An electromechanical switch is used by an electronic device called a relay module to

regulate the flow of electricity. It is made up of a control circuit that supplies the required

voltage and current to activate the relay, which is an electrically controlled switch, and a relay.

Current Sensor Module (ACS712)

It is an electrical tool for tracking and measuring the amount of electric current in a

circuit. It usually consists of circuitry to turn the current into a quantifiable signal in addition to a

current sensing element, like a shunt resistor or Hall-effect sensor. Numerous applications, such

as power management, motor control, energy monitoring, and industrial automation, frequently

use current sensor modules.

GSM Module (GPRS-GSM SIM900 A)

A small module that combines the features of a GSM (Global System for Mobile

Communications) and GPRS (General Packet Radio Service) module is called the GPRS-GSM

SIM900 A. It is frequently used to facilitate communication across cellular networks in

electronic projects and Internet of Things (IoT) applications. It is commonly used for wireless

connectivity in applications like remote monitoring, tracking systems, and mobile devices that

need cellular communication capabilities. It runs on the 2G network.

Outlet (20 Amp)

An outlet is a device that enables the connection of an electrical device to a power source.

It is often referred to as a power outlet or electrical outlet. It is made up of a plug that is put into

the socket to create an electrical connection and a socket that is linked to a wired electrical
system. Outlets can supply power for a variety of items, including lamps, appliances, and

electronic gadgets. They are usually located on the walls, floors, or ceilings of buildings. The

device will be housed in a 20 A outlet by the researcher.

Chapter 2

METHODS

This portion of the document explores the approach the researcher will use to methodically

handle the particular challenges listed. It will go over the methods for gathering data, how the

study is organized, what resources are employed, and the justification for these decisions.

RESEARCH METHOD

The methods of developmental research, which include examining, characterizing, and

assessing the process of developing new products, will be applied in this investigation. This kind

of study is intimately linked to practical application, creating a mutually reinforcing relationship

in which experience in the real world informs research, and research influences practice (Richey

& Klein, 2005). These methods give the researcher an organized and systematic framework for

gathering study data, which is why the researchers used them.

THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK]
 Figure 1.0 Theoretical Diagram

The theoretical diagram explains how several theories, concepts, and ideas were combined

to create the technology. The device's primary component, the microcontroller, will govern every

technical aspect of it thanks to a programmed software. The interconnection and wireless

functions will be facilitated using wireless technology. The global positioning system, which is a

component of geofencing technology, provides location-based activation commands. The term

"Internet-of-Things" (Iot) refers to the internet-based interconnection of systems, objects, and

devices that will enable data sharing and communication. Design & development of an Iot smart

outlet will be effectively developed by combining these technologies and concepts.

CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK
 Figure 2.0 Conceptual Diagram

The working methods used by the researchers to create the development of an IoT smart outlet

are depicted in the conceptual diagram. The planning process involves coming up with ideas for

the device's primary parts as well as the study's general methodology. The researchers' approach

and the techniques they employ make up the designing. Assembling the device's parts in a way

that allows it to perform its intended function is known as construction. Until the IoT Smart

Outlet Switch is fully created, testing entails a series of trial-and-error iterations to identify

necessary improvements and repeat the process.

RESEARCH DESIGN

The researchers chose to employ a quantitative research methodology in order to guarantee a

methodical and focused approach, as the work relates to developmental research. Standardized

processes and numerical data are the foundation of quantitative research, which improves

objectivity and makes repeatability easier. In order to acquire results, factors are quantified and

Analyzed in quantitative research. In order to answer queries like who, how much, what, where,

when, how many, and how, it comprises the use and analysis of numerical data using specific

statistical approaches (Apuke, 2017). It became out that collecting data throughout the testing

and assessment stage was more beneficial when done so using numerical data. In particular, the

results from acceptance and reliability tests will provide the researchers with an objective basis

for measurement and evaluation thanks to the quantitative study methodology. Furthermore,

numerical data will be simpler.

RESPONDENTS
 The convenience sampling technique will be employed by the researchers to select research

participants. Convenience sampling is a non-probability sample strategy that is frequently

employed in research, wherein participants are chosen according to their accessibility and

researcher convenience.

DATA GATHERING TOOL

The statistical tool used to collect data will be survey questionnaires. Due to the many

advantages that using surveys and questionnaires as a data collection technique offers, including

cost-effectiveness and usability, the researchers decided to use them. They are a versatile

instrument for accumulating data over time because they may be duplicated or altered for

additional study.

DATA GATHERING METHOD

The chosen subjects will receive personal invitations to participate in this research. In the

paper's introduction, the researchers will identify themselves and the key findings of the

investigation for potential participants. As long as the information requested does not interfere

with the subsequent data collection procedure, the latter's inquiries will be addressed. Their

phone numbers and availability dates will be noted as soon as they confirm their participation.

This is to provide details about the location and other things.

After using the Iot smart Outlet the researchers have predetermined, respondents will be

required to complete a survey that will evaluate the acceptability of the device. Respondents will

grade their answers on numerical scales found in the survey questions. In order to allow

respondents to interact with the survey in an authentic manner and to appropriately determine the

acceptability of the device, the researchers chose this approach of data gathering. In order to
determine whether the device satisfies the precise requirements stated in the study, the

researchers will conduct certain tasks on the device during the reliability test.

STATISTICAL TREATMENT

To measure the collected data, the researchers will employ a 5-point Likert scale. The reason

the researchers chose this approach is that it produces quantifiable data, which makes statistical

analysis possible. Likert scales will provide the researchers with a uniform framework for data

collecting, increasing its efficacy and guaranteeing consistency all the way through the study

procedure.

A. Interpretation of Data in Acceptability Test

 5 – Strongly Agree

 4 – Agree

 3 – Neutral

 2 – Disagree

 1 – Strongly Disagree

B. Interpretation of Data in Reliability Test

 1 – Passed

 0 – Failed

To analyses the expected data, the researchers measured the expected data through overall

device testing and evaluation of this study was simple mean. Simple mean calculation

summarizes an entire data set with a number representing the data typical value. By getting the

average value, it was calculated by dividing the sum of collected data by the total number of the

collected data.
 The statistical method used to determine the average of the data that enabled researchers

to draw conclusions is the simple mean method.

M = ∑n
x

M = mean

x = data acquired

n = total number of terms

Range Scale Evaluation

5 5.00 – 4.20 Highly Acceptable
4 4.19 – 3.40 Acceptable
3 3. 39 – 2.60 Least Acceptable
2 2.59 – 1.80 Undecided
1 1.79 – 1.00 Not Acceptable
Table 1: Acceptability Scale

Range Scale Evaluation

4 1.00 – 0.80 Highly Reliable
3 0.79 – 0.60 Reliable
2 0.39 – 0.20 Fairly Reliable
1 0.19 – 0.00 Unreliable
Table 2: Reliability Scale
ACCEPTABILITY TEST

The table below shows the questions the researchers will use to evaluate the acceptability of

the device in terms of:

A. Functionality

Least
Not Highly
Undecided Acceptabl Acceptable
Questions Acceptable Acceptable
(2) e (4)
(1) (5)
(3)
The device able to

function well with the

variables present

The device functionality

is satisfactory

The device can use

easier

C. Safety

Least
Not Highly
Undecided Acceptabl Acceptable
Questions Acceptable Acceptable
(2) e (4)
(1) (5)
(3)
Can safely detect and

mitigate

overcurrent/voltage?

The device is resistant

to leaks, overheating, or

explosions?

The device is safe to

use?
C. Usability

Least
Not Highly
Undecided Acceptabl Acceptable
Questions Acceptable Acceptable
(2) e (4)
(1) (5)
(3)

The device is user

friendly

The device is flexible

and accessible

It can easily maneuver

the connections needed

D. Cost

Least
Not Highly
Undecided Acceptabl Acceptable
Questions Acceptable Acceptable
(2) e (4)
(1) (5)
(3)
Is the cost of the device

acceptable for the

features and its

performance?

Is the device cost

suitable for practical

needs?

Is the device

recommendable based
 on its cost?

MATERIAL AND COMPONENTS

Hardware

The electronic components and materials that will be assembled or connected in this manner

to create the Microcontroller Operated Switch are covered in this section. Among the tools the

researchers will employ are:

1. Rasp Berry Pi

2. ESP-32 Node MCU

3. GPS Module

4. Micro USB Charger

5. Relay Module

6. Current Sensor Module (ACS712)

7. GSM Module (GPRS-GSM SIM900 A) x 2

8. Outlet (20 Amp)

Software

1. Blynk App/ Esphome

Through an easy-to-use interface, users can monitor and operate Internet of Things (IoT)

devices with the Blynk App/Esphome App, a mobile application. It offers a platform for

building unique control interfaces and integrating them with several IoT hardware

platforms, such as ESP8266, Arduino, and Raspberry Pi. The Blynk/Esphome app will be
 used by the researchers in the study to track the device's power use and manage the

changeover.

2. Raspberry Pi OS

An application called Raspberry Pi OS is used to program Raspberry boards. It offers a

set of tools and an intuitive interface that make authoring, compiling, and uploading code

to Raspberry Pi microcontrollers easier.

DEVICE OPERATIONAL PROCESS

Figure 3.0 Block Diagram

The block diagram of the design and development of Iot smart outlet provides a detailed view

of layout and function of the device. The operation involves using modules, sensors, and a
raspberry pi microcontroller showed in the diagram. The microprocessor receives its power

directly from the AC power line, which is then transformed into a lower DC voltage. Electronic

communication equipment such as the GSM module and Wi-Fi are employed as instruments to

deliver and receive data. The sensors that translate physical values into electrical signals are the

voltage and current sensors. Every day, the sensors and modules are run by the raspberry pi

microcontroller. the GPS unit, a different gadget connected to the outlet's microcontroller. The

GPS device will be in charge of transmitting the most recent location, and when it leaves the

designated virtual area, it will send a signal to the outlet instructing it to turn off. The GPS unit

needs to be carried about by the user or kept in a location they frequently bring.

PROPOSED ACTUAL DEVICE

 REFERENCES

Prayongpun N. Sittkul, V. Smart Plugs for Household Appliances

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/309092364_Smart_Plug_for_Household_App

liances

Spadafora, A., & Mortram, K. (2023). The best smart plugs in 2023. Tom’s Guide.

https://www.tomsguide.com/home/smart-home/smart-plugs-are-great-except-for-this-

one-thing

Linkendln (2024) Pros and Cons of Smart Plugs

https://www.linkedin.com/advice/1/what-pros-cons-using-smart-outlets-plugs-home-

security#:~:text=Smart%20plugs%20are%20simpler%20to,%2C%20Google

%20Assistant%2C%20or%20Siri.

Fernández-Caramés, T. (2015) An Intelligent Power Outlet System for the Smart Home

of the Internet of Things

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1155/2015/214805

Basumallick, C. (2022) What Is Raspberry Pi? Models, Features, and Uses

https://www.spiceworks.com/tech/networking/articles/what-is-raspberry-pi/
 Bai, Y. et. al, C. (2008). Remote power on/off control and current measurement for

Home electric outlets based on a low-power embedded board and ZigBee

Communication

Remote-Controllable
Power Outlet System
for Home Power
Management
Remote-Controllable
Power Outlet System
for Home Power
Management
Remote-Controllable
Power Outlet System
for Home Power
Management
Chia-Hung Lien, Ying-Wen
Bai, and Ming-Bo Lin,
Member, IEEE
Remote-Controllable
Power Outlet System
for Home Power
Management
Chia-Hung Lien, Ying-Wen
Bai, and Ming-Bo Lin,
Member, IEEE
Remote-Controllable
Power Outlet System
for Home Power
Management
Chia-Hung Lien, Ying-Wen
Bai, and Ming-Bo Lin,
Member, IEEE
Bai, Y. (2007) Remote Controllable Power Outlet System for Home Power

Management

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/3183341_Remote-

Controllable_Power_Outlet_System_for_Home_Power_Management
MTech Embedded Projects (2022) Remote power on/off control current measurement

for home electric outlets based on low power embedded boards and ZIGBEE

communication

https://www.mtechprojects.com/ieee-embedded-projects/29522-remote-power-onoff-

control-and-current-measurement-for-home-electric-outlets-based-on-a-low-power-

embedded-boards-and-zigbee-communication.html

Jing, S. (2020) IoT Based Smart Single Wall Outlet

http://eprints.utar.edu.my/4044/1/3E_1501389_FYP_report_-_JIAN_JING_SAW.pdf

Richey, R. (2005) Developmental Research Methods: Creating Knowledge from

Instructional Design and Development Practice

https://myweb.fsu.edu/jklein/articles/Richey_Klein_2005.pdf

Apuke, (2017) Quantitative Research Methods

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/

320346875_Quantitative_Research_Methods_A_Synopsis_Approach

Chris (2024) Disadvantages of Arduino (Compared with Raspberry Pi)

https://chipwired.com/disadvantages-of-arduino/