Arduino-Based Automatic Railway Crossing System

Description

Arduino-Based Automatic Railway Crossing System

Project Overview: The “Arduino-Based Automatic Railway Crossing System” is an innovative and practical final year project designed for Electrical and Electronics Engineering (EEE) students. This project aims to enhance railway crossing safety by automating the process using Arduino technology.

Key Features:

• Arduino UNO Microcontroller: The main control unit of the system, ensuring reliable and efficient operation.
• 5V 5A SMPS Power Supply: Provides stable and sufficient power to the entire system.
• IR Sensors: Two infrared sensors are used to detect the approaching train, ensuring timely operation of the crossing gates.
• Servo Motors: Two servo motors are responsible for opening and closing the railway gates automatically.
• Signal Lights: Green and red signal lights to manage vehicle and pedestrian traffic at the crossing.
• LDR Sensor: A light-dependent resistor sensor to control the street light, ensuring proper illumination during night time or low light conditions.
• 1 Channel Relay Module: Used to control the street light, ensuring energy efficiency.
• Street Light: Provides visibility at the crossing, enhancing safety for vehicles and pedestrians.
• I2C Display: Shows relevant information such as train arrival, gate status, and system health.

Project Components:

1. Arduino UNO: Acts as the brain of the system, controlling all operations.
2. SMPS 5V 5A: Ensures a stable power supply to all components.
3. IR Sensors: Detects the train’s approach, triggering the gate operation.
4. Servo Motors: Mechanically operate the gates.
5. Signal Lights: Indicate when it is safe or unsafe to cross.
6. LDR Sensor: Detects ambient light levels to control the street light.
7. 1 Channel Relay Module: Switches the street light on or off based on the LDR sensor input.
8. Street Light: Enhances visibility at the crossing.
9. I2C Display: Provides real-time system information.

How It Works:

The system employs two IR sensors placed at strategic points along the railway track. When a train is detected by the first IR sensor, the Arduino UNO microcontroller processes the signal and initiates the closing of the railway gates using the servo motors. The red signal light is activated to warn vehicles and pedestrians. Once the train has passed the second IR sensor, the Arduino commands the servo motors to open the gates and switches the signal light to green, indicating it is safe to cross.

The LDR sensor continuously monitors ambient light levels, and when it gets dark, the street light is turned on via the relay module, providing adequate illumination at the crossing. The I2C display keeps track of all operations and shows real-time updates for better monitoring and maintenance.

Benefits:

• Enhanced Safety: Automates the railway crossing, reducing human error and enhancing safety.
• Energy Efficiency: Utilizes energy-efficient components and controls the street light based on ambient light conditions.
• Real-Time Monitoring: Provides real-time information through the I2C display, aiding in maintenance and monitoring.

Conclusion:

The Arduino-Based Automatic Railway Crossing System is a comprehensive project that blends safety, efficiency, and technology. It is an excellent choice for EEE final year students looking to implement a practical and impactful solution in their project work. By leveraging the capabilities of Arduino, this system offers a reliable and effective method to manage railway crossings, ensuring safety for both trains and road users.