Introduction
Many ECE students find it challenging to select the right Arduino based projects that provide both learning and practical application in embedded systems.
Explore these Arduino projects, build innovative solutions, and enhance your skills in electronics and embedded systems for a successful career.
List of 50+ Arduino projects for Engineering Students
Beginner Arduino Projects
1. LED Blinking with Push Button
This project uses a push button to control an LED. When the button is pressed, the Arduino reads the input and turns the LED ON. When released, the LED turns OFF. It introduces digital input/output handling using digitalRead() and digitalWrite() functions.
2. Automatic Night Lamp using LDR
An LDR senses ambient light. When the light level drops below a threshold (like during evening), the Arduino turns on an LED to act as a night lamp. It teaches how to use analogRead() and control outputs based on sensor input values.
3. Temperature Display on Serial Monitor
The LM35 temperature sensor outputs analog voltage based on room temperature. Arduino reads this voltage using analogRead() and converts it to Celsius. The result is displayed on the Serial Monitor, helping beginners understand sensor reading and serial communication.
4. Traffic Light Control System
This project simulates a traffic light using LEDs. Arduino controls the red, yellow, and green LEDs in a timed sequence, just like real traffic signals. It helps in learning delays, sequencing, and digital output control.
5. Motion Detector with Buzzer Alert
A PIR motion sensor detects movement. When motion is sensed, Arduino triggers a buzzer for a short alert. It introduces motion detection and event-based responses in Arduino.
6. Digital Dice using 7-Segment Display
Press a button to “roll” a dice. The Arduino generates a random number from 1 to 6 and displays it on a 7-segment display. It teaches random number generation and controlling display segments.
7. Password-Based Door Lock System (Without Keypad)
A simulated password is entered via the Serial Monitor. If the password matches, a servo motor rotates to unlock. It teaches string comparison and actuator control using Arduino.
8. Water Level Alarm using Float Sensor
A float sensor detects high water levels in a tank. When the water reaches the threshold, it closes the circuit and Arduino triggers a buzzer. This teaches input from sensors and alarm systems.
9. Fire Detection Alarm using Flame Sensor
A flame sensor detects infrared radiation from fire. If detected, the Arduino triggers a buzzer or LED. It’s a basic safety project demonstrating sensor-based alert systems.
10. Ultrasonic Obstacle Avoider (Simple Version)
An ultrasonic sensor detects distance from nearby obstacles. If an object is detected within a specific range, Arduino activates an alert like LED or buzzer. It teaches distance sensing using sound waves.
Intermediate Arduino Projects
1. Line Follower Robot (2 Sensors)
This robot uses two IR sensors to follow a black line on a white surface. Depending on which sensor detects the line, Arduino adjusts the direction by controlling two DC motors. It introduces motor driver modules and sensor-based navigation.
2. Digital Thermometer with LCD Display
Using an LM35 sensor, the Arduino reads temperature and displays it on a 16×2 LCD screen. It teaches how to interface analog sensors and use LiquidCrystal library to show real-time values on a digital display.
3. Rain Detector with Automatic Window Closer
A rain sensor detects water drops. When rain is sensed, Arduino activates a servo or motor to automatically close a window. This project teaches sensor-triggered automation and actuator control.
4. Visitor Counter Using IR Sensors
Two IR sensors placed at a doorway detect entry and exit. Arduino increases or decreases a count and displays it on an LCD. It helps learn input interrupts and people-counting logic using basic digital sensors.
5. Password Door Lock Using Keypad & Servo
A 4×4 keypad is used to enter a password. If the entered code matches, Arduino rotates a servo to unlock the system. It helps understand keypad interfacing, string comparison, and motor control.
6. RFID Based Attendance System
Each person carries an RFID tag. When scanned, the tag’s UID is verified and attendance is recorded. Arduino displays names on an LCD. It teaches RFID module interfacing and basic user authentication.
7. Remote Controlled Light Using IR Remote
An IR receiver module reads signals from a TV remote. Arduino decodes these signals to turn ON/OFF a relay connected to a light. This helps understand IR communication and relay control.
8. Soil Moisture Monitor with OLED Display
A soil moisture sensor measures water content in soil. Arduino reads this value and displays real-time moisture percentage on a small OLED screen. It teaches analog sensor reading and graphical display handling.
9. Speed Detection Using IR Sensors
Two IR sensors placed at a known distance calculate the time an object takes to travel between them. Arduino then computes speed using distance/time formula. It demonstrates time-based calculations with digital sensors.
10. Bluetooth Controlled LED Pattern Display
Using a mobile app (like Arduino Bluetooth Controller), the user can send commands to Arduino via HC-05 module to change LED patterns. This introduces wireless communication and real-time control.
Advanced Arduino Projects
1. Face Mask Detector Using Arduino & Ultrasonic Sensor
An ultrasonic sensor measures the distance between a person’s face and sensor. If the person is too close without a mask (detected by specific gap range), an alert is triggered. This project simulates safety compliance using proximity sensing.
2. RFID Door Lock with Logging to SD Card
This system uses RFID tags to unlock doors and logs the entry time and tag ID into an SD card. Arduino handles tag authentication and data logging, teaching EEPROM storage, file handling, and security logic.
3. Gesture Controlled Robot Using Accelerometer
An accelerometer sensor detects hand gestures. Arduino reads tilt angles and sends directional commands to control robot motors wirelessly. This introduces sensor calibration, wireless transmission, and robotic control through hand movement.
4. Gas Detection & Auto Fan Activation System
A gas sensor like MQ2 detects LPG or smoke. If levels are high, Arduino turns ON a fan to ventilate the area. This teaches environmental sensing, actuator triggering, and basic home safety automation.
5. GPS-Based Location Tracker (With GSM Output)
The GPS module provides location coordinates. Arduino processes them and sends the data as SMS via GSM module. This project introduces satellite-based navigation, communication modules, and emergency alert systems.
6. Smart Helmet with Fall & Alcohol Detection
Sensors detect if the rider has fallen or is drunk. If either is true, a buzzer or alert system is triggered. It teaches sensor fusion (vibration + alcohol) and safety logic integration in wearables.
7. Home Automation Using RF Module
Appliances are controlled wirelessly using RF transmitter/receiver pairs. Arduino reads incoming signals and switches lights or fans via relays. This project helps learn wireless control and home automation basics without using Wi-Fi.
8. Object Detection and Counting System
Ultrasonic or IR sensors detect and count passing objects. Each detection updates the count on an LCD. This is useful for factories and stores, teaching object tracking using sensors.
9. Color Sensor-Based Object Sorter
TCS3200 color sensor identifies object colors. Arduino uses this data to rotate a servo and sort objects into bins. This project introduces sensor-based decision-making and real-time sorting automation.
10. Automatic Streetlight with Real-Time Clock
An RTC (Real-Time Clock) module turns streetlights ON/OFF at predefined times. Arduino reads the time and controls lighting accordingly. This teaches time-based automation and RTC interfacing.
IoT-Based Arduino Projects
1. IoT-Based Smart Irrigation System
This project reads soil moisture levels and sends the data to an IoT platform like Blynk or ThingSpeak. When the soil is dry, Arduino activates a water pump. The system can be monitored and controlled remotely via smartphone.
2. Weather Monitoring System with ThingSpeak
Sensors measure temperature, humidity, and pressure. Arduino sends this data to ThingSpeak using an ESP8266 module. The real-time values are plotted on an IoT dashboard, ideal for weather tracking and data visualization.
3. WiFi Controlled Home Appliances
Arduino with ESP8266 controls devices like lights and fans through a mobile app or web interface. Users can toggle devices in real time from anywhere, teaching home automation and wireless control.
4. IoT-Based Air Pollution Monitoring
MQ135 or similar gas sensors detect air quality levels. Arduino collects this data and sends it to the cloud via Wi-Fi. The user can track pollution data on a dashboard, useful in smart city solutions.
5. Water Tank Level Monitor with IoT Alerts
An ultrasonic sensor measures the water level in a tank. Arduino sends real-time readings to a mobile app and notifies the user when the tank is full or empty. Helps prevent water overflow and shortages.
6. IoT-Based Health Monitoring System
Pulse and temperature sensors read patient vitals. Arduino sends the data to the cloud through Wi-Fi. Doctors or family members can remotely monitor the patient’s health. Useful for remote healthcare or elder care.
7. IoT-Based Door Status Monitoring
A magnetic sensor detects if a door is open or closed. Arduino sends the status to a mobile app using ESP8266. This improves home security and monitoring from remote locations.
8. Wi-Fi Controlled LED Strip Lighting
Control RGB LED strips using Wi-Fi. Arduino creates a local web server, allowing users to select colors or patterns via browser or app. Ideal for DIY smart lighting systems.
9. Smart Attendance System with IoT Logging
Students scan RFID cards, and their attendance is updated in a Google Sheet or cloud database using ESP8266. It enables real-time record-keeping accessible by teachers or admins online.
10. Smart Garbage Bin Monitoring with Ultrasonic & IoT
An ultrasonic sensor checks garbage fill level in a bin. When full, Arduino sends an alert to the cloud. Ideal for smart city waste management solutions and efficient garbage collection.
Final Year Arduino Projects
1. Smart Energy Meter with Theft Detection
This energy meter measures electricity usage using a current sensor. If tampering or power theft is detected (e.g., sudden disconnection or bypass), Arduino triggers an alert. Data is displayed on an LCD and optionally sent via IoT, making it ideal for smart grid applications.
2. Solar Panel Sun Tracking System
This system uses LDRs to detect sunlight direction. Arduino adjusts the solar panel’s position using servo motors to maximize exposure throughout the day. It improves efficiency over static panels and demonstrates real-time sensor-based motor control.
3. IoT-Based Fire Detection and Extinguisher Robot
Fire sensors detect flames or high temperature. Arduino triggers motors to drive the robot toward the fire. A water pump or fan is activated to extinguish the flame. Alerts are sent via Wi-Fi for emergency response.
4. Smart Agriculture System
Multiple sensors monitor soil moisture, temperature, and light. Based on readings, Arduino controls irrigation and lighting systems. Data is sent to an IoT dashboard for remote monitoring. It’s an all-in-one agriculture automation solution for students.
5. Blind Stick with GPS, Obstacle & Water Detection
An ultrasonic sensor detects obstacles, a water sensor checks wet paths, and a GPS module shares the blind user’s location. Arduino processes all data and provides haptic or buzzer feedback for safe navigation. GPS tracking ensures safety.
6. Smart Traffic Management System
IR sensors detect vehicle density at each signal. Arduino uses this data to adjust green/red light durations dynamically. This optimizes traffic flow in real-time and can be integrated with a central control system.
7. RFID + Fingerprint Based Voting Machine
Voters authenticate with RFID and fingerprint modules. Arduino checks both credentials before allowing voting via keypad. Results are displayed and optionally stored on an SD card. This project focuses on security and anti-duplication mechanisms.
8. Smart Parking System with Slot Display
IR sensors detect whether parking slots are occupied. A display shows real-time availability. Arduino can send data to a mobile app or IoT server. It introduces real-time monitoring and user-friendly parking systems.
9. Smart Wheelchair with Voice Command
A voice recognition module interprets commands like “forward,” “left,” or “stop.” Arduino controls wheelchair movement via motors accordingly. It helps users with limited mobility and introduces human-machine interaction through speech.
10. Automated Toll Collection Using RFID and IoT
Vehicles with RFID tags pass through a toll gate. Arduino detects the tag, deducts balance, and logs transaction to the cloud. It automates tolling, reduces human interaction, and demonstrates integration of sensors with finance and transport systems.
Conclusion
Whether you’re just starting with Arduino or preparing a final-year engineering project, these 50+ ideas offer a solid foundation for hands-on learning and innovation. From beginner circuits to IoT-based systems, each project helps you build practical skills in electronics and programming. Pick one that matches your interest and start building today!
Checkout more final year projects here.
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