DIY Smart EcoBin: Intelligent Waste Management System

The DIY Smart EcoBin operates as an integrated, microcontroller-based environmental and physical monitoring system centered around an Arduino Nano. At the core of its waste tracking functionality is the HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor, which emits high-frequency sound waves to measure the distance between the top of the bin and the accumulated waste inside. This distance calculation allows the system to determine the current fill level of the EcoBin. Concurrently, the DHT11 sensor monitors the local ambient temperature and humidity conditions surrounding the unit, while the MQ135 gas sensor continuously samples the air quality to detect potential odor or hazardous gas concentrations resulting from decomposing waste. The Arduino Nano processes these incoming analog and digital signals continuously. When the calculated waste level exceeds a predetermined capacity threshold, or if the MQ135 sensor detects poor air quality surpassing safe limits, the system triggers the onboard buzzer to provide an audible alert. Furthermore, real-time data metrics including fill percentage, temperature, humidity, and air quality status are transmitted via the I2C protocol and rendered on the LCD I2C display screen, offering immediate visual feedback to anyone interacting with or maintaining the smart dustbin unit.