This project presents the design and development of an Arduino-based controller for a solar-powered washing machine. The system ensures that the washing machine can complete all its cycles (wash, rinse, and spin) despite fluctuations in solar power.
The solution focuses on power management, embedded systems, and sustainable energy usage, making it suitable for off-grid or low-income environments.
- Develop a controller that enables full washing cycles using solar power
- Monitor and respond to real-time solar energy availability
- Reduce electricity consumption through efficient system design
- Simulate and test washing machine operations under varying power conditions
- Solar Panel – Main power source
- Battery – Stores energy for low sunlight conditions
- Power Inverter – Converts DC to AC
- Arduino Uno – Main controller
- Power Sensor (INA219) – Measures power availability
- Motor Driver (L298N) – Controls drum motor
- Water Pump – Simulates water flow
- Sensors – Monitor temperature, water level, and cycle timing
- Relay Module – Controls switching of components
| Cycle | Estimated Power | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Wash | 300–500 W | Drum rotation with detergent |
| Rinse | 200–300 W | Water refill and cleaning |
| Spin | 400–800 W | High-speed rotation to remove water |
The Arduino continuously monitors available solar power using a power sensor. Based on the available energy:
- The system decides whether to start, pause, or continue a cycle
- Components such as the motor and pump are controlled dynamically
- If power drops, the system adjusts operation to prevent failure
This ensures reliable washing performance even with unstable solar input.
- Analyze washing machine power requirements
- Study solar panel performance under different conditions
- Design a control system using Arduino
- Develop and implement control software
- Simulate and test system behavior under power fluctuations
- Evaluate system performance and limitations
- Cannot generate power, only manage it
- Prototype is not full-scale
- Limited heating capability due to power constraints
- Arduino I/O limitations restrict scalability
- Reduces electricity costs
- Supports sustainable living
- Useful in off-grid and rural environments
- Demonstrates practical embedded systems application
- Integrate smarter power prediction algorithms
- Upgrade to higher-capacity controllers
- Improve water heating efficiency
- Scale system for real household use
Gift Bongani Mahlambi