Sensors Based on the Internet of Things for Semi-Outdoor Air Cleaners: An Alternative Method for Controlling Haze and COVID-19

Abstract

Background: Particulate matter has been connected to COVID-19 occurrences, whereas Internet of Things (IoT) technology can be utilized to address the demand for ambient air quality monitoring.

Objective: The purpose of this research is to create a low-cost IoT platform that can be integrated with multi-air sensors and a ventilating fan controller for public semi-outdoor air conditions, and to protect us from the haze and the COVID-19 crisis.

Materials and Method: The IoT platform was designed and built, with two-way data communication, between a dual ventilating fan, air quality sensors, and a chatbot platform.

Results: The results of a preliminary test were collected and interpreted, including the operation of the ventilation system, aerosol reports, and IoT interfacing. When PM2.5 levels reached 50 μg/m3, a set of ventilating fans was activated and ran indefinitely until the aerosol level dropped below 50 μg/m3. The chatbot system was divided into two LINE groups, the first of which was used to send a machine code. This chatbot could respond within 1-5 seconds, depending on Wi-Fi stability, to monitor the status of the ventilation system as well as any types of aerosol levels (CO2, formaldehyde, TVOC, PM2.5, PM10, temperature, and humidity). Another report system was used to only report machine status and aerosol levels every 1 hour or as users desired, which was designed for people who want to know the air quality levels in their location.

Conclusion: Multi-sensors and the LINE chatbot can both detect aerosols as well as control ventilation fans. With the exception of a SIM card included with the Wi-Fi 3G system, which is suitable for developing countries during the haze and COVID-19 crisis, all platforms are free for potential users.