Design and Implementation of an IOT Based Cooking Gas Gauging System Using STM32F411CEU6 Microcontroller

Abstract

In Nigeria, many Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) users face two common issues due to their inability to gauge the gas level in cooking cylinders. First, they often get defrauded by either LPG vendors or their assistants, leading to the purchase of less gas than paid for. Second, they experience the inconvenience of running out of gas while cooking, especially during odd hours. To address these problems, this paper introduces an LPG gauging system utilizing the Internet of Things (IoT) technology. Key components of the system include load cells for weight sensing, an HX711 amplifier, and an STM32F411CEU6 microcontroller (MCU) that acts as the central processor of the device. When the load cell detects weight, it sends a signal to the HX711 amplifier, which amplifies the signal, converts it to digital form and then forward it to the MCU for processing. The MCU then triggers the Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), showing the LPG level from the time of purchase until it is depleted. Users can also set a refill reminder to be triggered via SMS and calls when the gas reaches a preset level. Additionally, a custom mobile app has been developed for remote monitoring and control of the LPG cylinder. The system is powered by a battery, a 5V power pack, and an 18W solar panel. Implementing this system will prevent LPG users from being defrauded and will help in avoiding the inconvenience of running out of gas while cooking.