Arduino based automated flow control system

At present when precise, accurate and time efficient systems have become a challenge, automated techniques are being replaced by manual practices. As a need of the hour, we introduce an automated, cost effective, yet reliable and efficient flow control system for fluids. Our prototype system can dispense varying amounts of fluids in milliliters (maximum 1L) as per demand of the user using peristaltic pump and solenoid valves. It uses the principle of time-based fluid dispensing achieved using PWM technology. To satisfy the principle used and verify the system's accuracy, fluids in different amount were dispensed for different amount of time and monitored. The experimental results of the fluid control system when tested showed linear relationship between the dispensing time and desired volumes of fluids. The added feature of our dispensing system is GUI for operating the Arduino. A screen comes up with buttons to toggle timers for individual valves as well as a button to run a sequence of commands in a specific order if necessary. GUI works in conjunction with the Arduino so the commands it sends must be formatted properly for the Arduino to actuate correctly. This system can be used in pharmaceutical and beverage industries as well as in different laboratories for dispensing and filling different volumes of fluids.