Automatic Water Dispenser Based on Ultrasonic Sensor and Arduino Uno to Improve Hygiene

Abstract

Automatic water dispensing technology can reduce direct contact with dispenser surfaces and support better control of water use. This study aimed to design and develop an automatic water dispenser using an HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor and Arduino Uno to improve hygiene during the water dispensing process. The research used a design and development approach consisting of problem identification, literature study, hardware and software design, prototype assembly, system integration, testing, and evaluation. The HC-SR04 sensor was used to detect the presence and distance of a glass, while the Arduino Uno processed the sensor readings and controlled a water pump through a relay. System testing was conducted at several glass detection distances and through repeated measurements of the volume of water dispensed. The results showed that the sensor detected a glass at distances of 3, 5, 7, and 10 cm, while an object positioned beyond 12 cm was not detected. Five water volume tests produced 190, 195, 200, 192, and 198 mL, with an average volume of 195 mL per filling cycle. Functional testing also showed that the pump turned on when a glass was detected and turned off when the glass was removed. These findings indicate that the prototype operated according to the designed system and enabled water dispensing without direct contact. In practical terms, the system can support more hygienic dispenser use and reduce unnecessary water flow by activating the pump only when a glass is detected. Further development can focus on water-level monitoring, IoT integration, enclosure improvement, and longer testing.