Abstract
The CHETAK project focuses on developing a cost-effective and reliable solution to enhance the safety and monitoring systems in coal mines. The system can detect hazardous gases, monitor environmental conditions, and provide real-time alerts to improve worker safety and emergency response.
Problem Statement
Coal mining is one of the most hazardous industries worldwide. Workers face severe risks from gas explosions, suffocation, and environmental hazards. Traditional monitoring systems lack real-time responsiveness. CHETAK aims to solve these challenges using advanced sensing and communication technologies.
Key Features
- Gas Detection: Real-time monitoring of CH4 (Methane), CO2, H2 (Hydrogen), and CO (Carbon Monoxide) levels.
- Environmental Monitoring: Temperature and humidity tracking to prevent heat stress and equipment malfunction.
- Alert System: Immediate SMS notifications for gas leaks and hazardous conditions.
- Data Logging: Continuous environmental data storage for future analysis using an SD card module.
- Worker Safety: Single helmet integration with real-time data for centralized monitoring.
Technical Description
The CHETAK system is built around the Arduino Uno microcontroller. It uses various gas sensors (MQ-4, MQ-7, MQ-8, MG811), a DHT11 temperature and humidity sensor, an RTC (DS3231) module for real-time clock data, and an SD card module for logging. Alerts are sent using a GSM module, ensuring immediate notification in case of danger.
Methodology
- Researching coal mine hazards and existing monitoring systems.
- Designing a robust sensor array and integrating with Arduino Uno.
- Implementing real-time gas detection and environmental monitoring.
- Enabling wireless alerts via SMS to relevant authorities.
- Testing the system in simulated hazardous environments for validation.
Components Used
- Arduino Uno
- MQ-4 (Methane) Sensor
- MQ-7 (Carbon Monoxide) Sensor
- MQ-8 (Hydrogen) Sensor
- MG811 (CO2) Sensor
- DHT11 Temperature & Humidity Sensor
- RTC DS3231 Module
- SD Card Module
- GSM SIM900A Module
- LCD Display (I2C)
- Buzzer
Experimental Results
CHETAK successfully detects gas leaks, temperature fluctuations, and environmental anomalies. Real-time alerts via SMS ensure rapid emergency response, and data logging provides long-term monitoring capabilities.
Achievements
- 1st Prize in Disaster Management at the Rajya Stariya Bal Vaigyanik Pradarshani.
- 1st Prize in Research & Industrial Conclave Integration '24 (RIC).
- 1st Prize under Environmental Hackathon 2024 at IIT Guwahati (IITG).
- Best Theme Award at the India International Science Festival (IISF).
Future Scope
- Integration of AI-based hazard prediction algorithms.
- Improved wireless range for remote underground monitoring.
- Additional gas detection (SO2, NOx) for expanded safety.
- Enhanced communication system with real-time video monitoring.
- Deployment in other hazardous environments like oil refineries.