Increased energy consumption without user awareness can lead to waste and higher carbon footprints. There’s a lack of real-time, intuitive feedback mechanisms for everyday electricity use.
The team developed a multi-function energy meter with a visual LED display that helps users easily understand their electricity consumption through color-coded indicators. The project was completed in three phases:
1. Sensor Integration (Voltage Measurement):
Used an AC Digital Multi-function Meter with an electrical sensor connected to:
Arduino board
Plug
Switchboard
Defined usage thresholds:
Green LED: Low consumption
Orange LED: Moderate consumption
Red LED: High consumption
2. Visual Display System:
Initially used 3 discrete LEDs
Later upgraded to Neopixel LEDs for:
Full color control
Consistent brightness
Required Arduino MEGA and code refactoring
3. Device Body Fabrication:
Created a custom panel using laser cutting
Built a wooden base for mounting components
Integrated electronics into the housing to complete the working prototype