Sample-Research 1
Sample-Research 1
Sample-Research 1
STEM
Cabanatuan City
In Partial Fulfillment
By
LARA S. ROXAS
ROSANNA B. ALOTA
NICOLE G. ESLAYA
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The researchers would like to extend their most heartfelt gratitude to the people who
made it possible for them to accomplish this project despite the current circumstances
To our beloved parents and family members, for their never-ending support and
motivation they gave us and for helping us in assembling the parts of the device. We are
grateful for their moral and financial support that enabled us to finish our project on time.
To our project advisers, Mrs. Miradel Bautista and Mrs. Evangeline Gonzales for
guiding us, from the proposal stage of our project up to the time it was finished. We would
like to thank them for the wisdom they imparted to us regarding communication and
teamwork strategies that were essential for the completion of our goals.
To Mr. Angelo Libed of ABM 12 C for sharing his insights about the programming
and hardware of the device that helped us in troubleshooting the problems that arose during
Above all, to our Almighty God who gave us the strength, patience, and wisdom that
L. S. R.
D. M. D.L. M.
R. B. A.
N. G. E.
J. C. B. L.
Researchers
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ABSTRACT
This project, titled “Automatic Hand Soap Dispenser with Timer using Arduino Nano
and Ultrasonic Sensor”, aimed to minimize surface contact when washing hands and to
The device was programmed using the Arduino IDE. Other components used were the
electrical relay, DC pump, and the LEDs and buzzer for the timer. It was tested for
effectiveness, duration of the cycle, amount of liquid dispensed, sensitivity of the ultrasonic
sensor, response time of the pump, response time of the timer, and accuracy of the timer. The
device was found to be 100% effective in delivering its function. The following are the
calculated values for the percent error of each parameter: 1.45% for the duration of the cycle,
18.67% for the amount of liquid dispensed, 6.47% for the sensitivity of the ultrasonic sensor,
8.27% for the response time of the pump, 16,73% for the response time of the time, and
ANOVA was used to determine if there is a significant difference among the obtained
values. The results showed that there is no significant difference among the obtained values
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
Title Page i
Acknowledgement ii
Abstract iii
Table of Contents iv
List of Figures vi
INTRODUCTION 1
Hypotheses 4
Definition of Terms 6
METHODOLOGY 15
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Combining codes 20
Testing of Device 20
Data Gathering 22
Statistical Analysis 22
OF DATA 23
Summary 34
Conclusions 35
Recommendations 38
REFERENCES 39
APPENDICES
Appendix A. Materials 42
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LIST OF FIGURES
FIGURE PAGE
1 Schematic Diagram 15
2 Conceptual Framework 16
3 Codes of Arduino 18
4 Arduino Nano 42
5 Ultrasonic Sensor 42
6 DC Pump 42
7 Electrical Relay 42
8 LEDs 42
9 Buzzer 42
10 Battery Holder 42
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LIST OF TABLES
TABLE PAGE
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Introduction
According to O'Horo (2020), SARS-CoV-2 or Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
is a newly identified coronavirus that is likely begun as a zoonotic virus that mutated or
otherwise evolved in ways that it can be obtained by humans. The outbreak of the virus
started in China and on March 11, 2020, the virus spread throughout the world and was
labeled as a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO). The virus is recorded to be
according to CDC (2020), Coronavirus is transmitted far more frequently through respiratory
droplets but it can be also transmitted through contact with infected surfaces.
Out of all the numerous ways and tools for maintaining cleanliness and good hygiene,
proper handwashing is far better and it needs to be taken seriously especially with the current
situation in the Philippines where COVID-19 spreads rapidly through hand-to-hand contact.
According to McIntosh et. al (2020), COVID-19 can possibly be transmitted when the
infected hands of a person touches the mucous membranes such as the nose, eyes, and mouth.
infection (Buxton, 2019). It includes hand washing (with plain soap), hygienic hand washing
(with medicated soap), and hygienic hand rubbing (with antiseptic solutions) (Akuoko, 2019).
Moreover, according to Lee (2016), one of the most important ways to avoid infections is
hand washing with soap and water. In the study of Brassard (2012), Center of Disease
Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests that it is essential to wash hands at least 20 to 30
seconds and make sure to wash the back of the hands, wrists and between fingers. Hand
washing is also one of the most cost-effective public health measures in reducing the spread
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Hand washing is highly crucial before and after touching with body fluids or wounds
of a sick person; after using the toilet, changing diapers, or assisting a child with toileting,
after coughing, sneezing, or blowing one’s nose, after touching animals, their food or waste,
and before and during the preparation of food (Lee, 2016). However, a typical bathroom
faucet contains over a million microorganisms including virus and bacteria for a person to
system that results in significant deaths, morbidity, and other economic consequences all over
the world (Akuoko, 2019). In the study of Tong et al. (2016), there are significant numbers
of bacteria living on the surface in the environment for disease transmission causing
Based on the study conducted by Ikechukwu et. al (2014), the World Health
Organization (WHO) said that proper hand washing procedures contributed to the decreasing
occurrence of diseases such as trachoma, pneumonia, scabies, skin and eye infection, as well
as cholera and dysentery. Moreover, as stated by the US CDC from the study of Meadows &
Le Saux (2004), hand washing has been reported to be an effective way of preventing the
spread of infections.
Furthermore, from the study of Adzam (2012), Kartha stated that in order to achieve
good health, regular hand washing should be followed but most of the people perceive it as
pointless and a waste of time to put your effort into. In a study conducted by Tambekar &
Shirsat (2009), WaterAid proposed that common cold and gastrointestinal illnesses like
diarrhea are some of the countless number of infectious diseases that usually disperse by
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Meanwhile, the findings from the study of Babu (2020) states that robot interference
was found to be successful in increasing levels of hand washing with soap. Automated hand
washing also limits the surface contact to limit the transfer of microorganisms.
Currently, automatic hand soap dispensers can only be seen in malls and private
establishments. These can also be expensive and not fit for household use. It also does not
solve the problem of people not washing their hands correctly. According to a 2013 study,
(Borchgrevink, Cha & Kim) only 5% of people wash their hands properly after going to the
toilet. This poses a health risk as the remaining germs on their hands can proliferate and may
In line with this, the researchers aimed to create a device that automatically dispenses
soap and provides a timer that reminds the user how much time is left for them to finish
washing their hands. This was to improve on the current model of automatic hand soap
dispensers that can be bought online by adding more functions and making it cheaper.
This also used more affordable parts than that of the design of the Techatronic
Youtube Channel that used an Arduino Uno board, and two micro servo motors. Instead, the
current research project utilized an Arduino Nano board, DC Pump, LEDs and a buzzer as
signals for the timer. The design was also more compact and reusable instead of the
Overall, the current research created a device that minimizes surface contact through
an automatic hand soap dispenser with a timer that ensures that the suggested hand washing
duration is followed.
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Generally, this study aimed to construct an automatic hand soap dispenser with a
timer to limit the spread of germs and to ensure proper hand washing.
1. How may the automatic hand soap dispenser with a timer be constructed?
a. Cost
b. Physical appearance
c. Function
4. Is there a significant difference among the obtained values for the duration of the
cycle, amount of liquid dispensed, sensitivity of the ultrasonic sensor, response time
of the pump, response time of the timer, and accuracy of the timer.
1. There is no significant difference among the obtained values for the duration of the
cycle.
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2. There is no significant difference among the obtained values for the amount of liquid
dispensed.
3. There is no significant difference among the obtained values for the sensitivity of the
ultrasonic sensor.
4. There is no significant difference among the obtained values for the response time of
the pump.
5. There is no significant difference among the obtained values for the response time of
the timer.
6. There is no significant difference among the obtained values for the accuracy of the
timer.
Community. The device will help people in the community to learn about the proper hand
washing and will aid them in doing so by providing a guide for the suggested hand washing
duration.
Health Sector. The minimized surface contact and proper hand washing protocol will help
lower the spread of germs and thereby the infection rates that may send people to the hospital.
The Authorities. There would be less contact tracing for people that go to the restroom since
Future Researchers. This will help future researchers that may conduct similar studies or
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minimize surface contact and will help people observe the recommended 20- to 30-second
hand washing duration. The device was tested for the duration of the cycle, amount of liquid
dispensed, sensitivity of the ultrasonic sensor, response time of the pump, response time of
the timer, and accuracy of the timer. The liquid soap used for the testing is from a foam
handwash that has a non-viscous consistency; viscous liquids were not tested on this device.
The materials used for the study were bought from DEECO Electronics in Cabanatuan City
and from online shops in Shopee and Lazada. The program of the device was written and
Definition of Terms
Arduino Nano - a microcontroller with an ATmega328P microchip, 6-20 input voltage, 14
digital input/output (I/O) pins, 8 analog input pins, 32 kB flash memory, clock speed of 16
Ultrasonic Sensor HC-SR04 - a device that detects an object and measures its distance by
emitting ultrasonic sound waves that reflects back from the object it hits and is converted by
Direct Current (DC) Pump - a component that uses direct current to move fluids, for this
based on digital signals that it receives from a source, in this case, the Arduino Nano; the
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Software - written programs that are used by the microcontroller to control the hardware
components connected to it
Hardware - physical components that are connected to the microcontroller and can be
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This section contains information from previous studies that are related to the current
research.
Arduino System
microcontroller board where the user connects hardware components. The microcontroller
board serves as the brain of the system where programs can be uploaded using a USB cable.
This comes with an Arduino Integrated Development Environment (IDE) where the user can
write codes that will be used to control the hardware connected to the board. (Opensource,
2015)
Compared to other microcontrollers such as the Intel 8051, Arduino has a larger flash
memory, random access memory (RAM), and an electrically erasable read only memory
(EEPROM). Programs can also be easily uploaded to Arduino boards through a USB cable
among students and hobbyists due to its intuitive programming aided by an IDE that makes it
easier for a layman to understand. Arduino also has a larger development community which
Arduino boards come in different types and sizes depending on its use for the project.
Some of these are Arduino Uno (R3), Arduino Nano, Arduino Mega (R3), Arduino Leonardo
and Lilypad Arduino. Nevertheless, most of the boards contain digital pins, analog pins,
voltage input and output, a reset button and a port where you can upload the program.
(Sparkfun, n.d.)
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For this project, an Arduino Nano board will be used. Arduino Uno will only be used
for computer simulations of the code. They basically have the same features, except Arduino
Nano is smaller and has more pins while Arduino Uno is more ideal for projects that use
shields. According to a Technoprenuer article from 2018 (Aqeel), the Arduino Nano board
has 14 digital pins, eight analog pins, two reset pins and six power pins. It has 32 kB flash
Additionally, there are devices called sensors and shields that perform specific
functions that can be connected to the board. Sensors are inputs that can detect different
things such as distance for proximity sensors, smoke sensors and humidity sensors.
Meanwhile, shields are modular circuit boards that can be connected directly to the board and
According to the WHO (2009), it is important for everyone to wash hands when they
come into contact with visibly dirty objects, possibly infectious people, and after going to the
toilet. It is suggested that for hand hygiene, hand washing duration should be 20 to 30
Common soap dispensers use a spring-loaded pump that requires contact every time it
is used. In addition to this, poor hand washing practices can lead to the proliferation of germs
The use of soap dispensers is also better than using a communal bar soap. Bar soaps
can remain moist after being used and can be a breeding ground of germs that may be
harmful especially for the immunocompromised. With the use of soap dispensers, this can be
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Meanwhile, soap dispensers are also included in the rising number of automated
devices. These can be seen in shopping mall bathrooms although household use in the
Philippines is not that common. These can be bought online while there are also instructions
on how to make your own using infrared proximity sensors. (Hareendran, n.d.)
Automatic hand soap dispensers are even more efficient in minimizing the spread of
germs given that people wash their hands properly. This is because the device no longer
needs to be touched to dispense the soap and the amount of soap dispensed can be controlled,
Programming
There are a lot of programming languages. One or more can be used on a project
depending on the intended purpose. Some of the programming languages include python,
java, HTML, C#, SQL, and C++. Java, Python, and HTML are commonly used in designing
web pages, SQL is mostly used in databases, and C++ can be used to create operating
C++ has a wide array of uses. It can be used in applications such as Adobe Illustrator
to create the graphical user interface (GUI). It provides control for hardware and overrides
the complexity of 3D games. Mainstream web browsers such as Google Chrome and Mozilla
Firefox also make use of this language. It is also used along with SQL in database
management. C++ can also be used for developing operating systems such as Microsoft and
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However, the versatility of this language still comes with its own pros and cons. For
the advantages, it is good for low level programming language and for general purpose. It is
compatible with C language, the codes are reusable, and provides high level abstraction.
Meanwhile, for the disadvantages, it can be complex for web-based applications, does not
support Dynamic Memory Allocation, can be difficult to debug and has no support for built-
Arduino uses C++ because it can be used to control the hardware components through
the code uploaded to the board. Arduino IDE can be used to make the interface easier
especially for beginners. It has two main functions: the setup(), used to layout the functions
of each component wired to the board and runs only once, and the loop() which runs
repeatedly given some condition. It also has built-in libraries that the user can integrate to the
Software
allows users to carry out various tasks or are usually used to run the computer. Its primary
function is to guide the user, together with the computer hardware, to focus on the main
issues needed to be resolved. Basically, software directs the whole computer system to the
proper ways of executing an operation. And without software, devices won’t function
Software and hardware were designed to work together in performing a certain work
on a computer. Moreover, software dictates hardware on what it should do, making hardware
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Hardware
The physical components of a device are referred to as hardware. Hardware is a
tangible object that you can hold or touch, unlike softwares. Hardware plays a role in each of
the key functions of a computer mainly: the input, output, processing and storage (Cox, 2010).
Additionally, hardware is not only limited to the physical components of a computer. It also
includes the wires, plugs, power supply modules, peripheral devices, keyboards, mice, audio
Hardwares and softwares usually perform simultaneously even the simplest tasks in a
extensive testing and validation before being published (Lei et al., 2019).
Ultrasonic Sensor
The ultrasonic sensor (HC-SR04) falls into the family of proximity sensors. Proximity
sensors by definition are devices that detect the presence of an object without the need to
There are different types: inductive, optical, capacitive, magnetic and ultrasonic.
Inductive proximity sensors can detect metal objects through the principle of induction by
inducing an electromotive force on the target. Optical proximity sensors detect an object by
flashing a light that bounces on an object and is reflected back to its light sensor. Capacitive
proximity sensors can detect solid, granulate, powdered, or liquid metallic and nonmetallic
objects by using the variance in capacitance to conclude that an object has been detected.
Magnetic proximity sensors detect objects by sensing its magnetic field. (Robu, 2020) Lastly,
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ultrasonic sensors detect objects by emitting ultrasonic sound waves that bounce off the target
object and are reflected back to the receiver of the sensor. (Burnett, 2020)
The ultrasonic sensor also comes with advantages and limitations. The advantages
include: not being affected by the color and transparency of the object, can be used without
light, low-cost, and unaffected by dust, dirt, and humid environments. Meanwhile, its
limitations are: it cannot work in a vacuum and underwater, the softness of objects affect
detection, is affected by changes in temperature and can only detect objects that are up to
Ultrasonic sensors are commonly used in measuring the level of the liquid in tanks
and for measuring distance. (Migatron Corp., 2021) Projects that use arduino include, smart
walking cane, collision avoidance system, and parking alarm. (Vidyakar, 2018). In addition
to this, other devices that utilize this are: intruder alarm, and area scanner. (eTechnophiles,
2021)
DC Pump
This project used a three to six volts submersible mini DC pump. It uses a motor to
move fluids in different ways. Since it is a DC component that is not readily compatible with
Arduino systems, it needs to be connected to an electrical relay that is compatible with the
Arduino board. The relay serves as a microswitch that is turned on and off through digital
signals coming from the board which then turns the DC component, in this case the pump, on
The way this works is through a centrifugal water pump that uses a motor to move the
impeller and push the water out of the spout of the pump. It is also fully submersible. Pumps
like this are energy-efficient and do not produce a lot of noise, thus making it ideal for
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household use. However, it also comes with a disadvantage of the seals being corroded after a
long time of being submerged which allows the water to reach the motor. (IMTS, 2020)
Related Studies
The current research is inspired by the automatic hand sanitizer uploaded in the
Arduino Project Hub (2020) that used an Arduino Uno board, an ultrasonic sensor and a 9G
micro servo. Most of the inspiration will be taken from the design and placement of the
components but instead, for the current project, the components will be enclosed in a box
Moreover, the design for the dispenser for the current study is similar to the design of
After further research conducted by the researchers, studies similar to the current one
are uploaded in Youtube. These automatic hand soap dispensers with timer use the same
components (Arduino Uno board, ultrasonic sensor, micro servo motor) for dispensing the
soap. For the timer part an LCD was used to display the remaining time, LEDs and seven-
segment display for digital time, and a micro servo motor for analog time. (Raquo, 2021).
Other existing studies use an infrared (IR) sensor for detection, LCD for the timer and
used board paper for the casing (Arduino Project Hub, 2020). Another used ultrasonic sensor,
Arduino Uno, and micro servo motor for analog time. (Techatronic, 2020)
Previous projects that used ultrasonic sensors and DC pumps were reviewed and used
as reference for the program.This includes an irrigation project (BTECH KIDS, 2018) and
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This section lays out the procedures followed in conducting the research. It provides a
plan on how to execute the assembly and programming of the Automated Hand Soap
Dispenser with Timer. The data and statistical analysis methods are also included in this
chapter.
Shown in Figure 1 is the Schematic Diagram of the device that gives details on how
each component was connected in the circuit. The components were connected to Arduino
Nano after the development of the device in order to upload the codes and functions. The
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ultrasonic sensor, DC pump, LEDs and buzzers are connected to their designated digital pin
I/O and to the voltage output and ground. A 6-volt battery serves as the power source.
The researchers aimed to construct an automatic hand soap dispenser with a timer
wherein the device will release hand soap when the ultrasonic sensor detects a hand and
automatically starts a 30-second timer. This starts a function where the DC pump moves the
liquid soap out of the bottle and through the tubing that directs the soap to the hand. After this,
the timer will commence; The red LED will blink for 20 seconds, the yellow one for the
remaining 10 seconds and the green LED and buzzer will turn on and off three times to
indicate that the 30-second timer is finished. For the construction of the device, Arduino
Nano (microcontroller) was used together with an ultrasonic sensor, DC pump, LEDs, and a
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buzzer. Additionally, an application called Arduino IDE was used to encode the commands
that the microcontroller will process and use to control the hardware.
Gathering of Materials
The needed materials are collected for the construction of the device. The materials
light (red, yellow and green), 1 – piezo buzzer, 1 – 6 V battery pack, 5 meters stranded wire,
1 – Photo Circuit Board (PCB), and an enclosed box . The materials were bought from
DEECO Electronics in Cabanatuan City except the Arduino Nano board ordered from Shopee
and DC pump and tubing from Lazada. Other materials to be used are a soldering gun,
soldering lead, soldering flux, glue gun, glue stick, plywood, spray paint, goggles, and a glass
bottle.
The Arduino Nano will be set-up using Arduino IDE and encoded with the proper
commands. The commands and functions are based on the function of each component wired
to the microcontroller.
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The figure above shows the codes used to set-up the Arduino. It starts with the
introduction of the variables to be used. The pins to be used were given names based on the
component connected to them. Other variables defined were those that may be frequently
changed for adjustments; these include the number of blinks for each LED, and duration of
This is followed by the function “void setup” which is run once. Under this, the pin
modes of each pin were assigned as either input or output. The LEDs, buzzer, ultrasonic
sensor trigger, and relay were labeled as outputs while the ultrasonic sensor echo is labeled as
input. This is also where the serial monitor is instructed to begin. The serial monitor gives
feedback on the state of a selected component, in this case it is the propagation of the
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Following this is another function called “void loop” which runs repeatedly. This
includes the command to start the propagation of ultrasonic sound waves and for the serial
printer to present in the serial monitor the duration of ultrasonic wave propagation. This is
followed by the if-else statement. This function tells that the relay and the timer will turn on
when a hand is detected 10 centimeters or less from the sensor, otherwise, the relay will stay
off and the red LED turns on, meaning that the device is turned on.
The ultrasonic sensor is a device that is used to measure the distance of an object by
emitting ultrasonic sound waves. This will detect the presence of a hand that has a distance of
10 centimeters or less in front of it. This will then trigger the programmed commands on the
The DC pump moves the liquid soap. This is connected to the electrical relay which is
a microswitch that is turned on and off using digital signals from the microcontroller board.
When the sensor is triggered, the pump turns on for 0.5 seconds and releases 2.5 milliliters of
soap.
The LEDs and piezo buzzer will indicate time through blinks and buzzer sound. After
dispensing the soap for 0.5 seconds, the red LED light will blink for 20 seconds, followed by
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the yellow LED for the last 10 seconds and the green LED and the buzzer will turn on and off
three times to indicate that the timer is already finished or it has already reached 30 seconds.
Combining Codes
Once each component was set and fragments of the code were tested on the hardware,
the codes were combined into one file and uploaded to the Arduino Nano.
After the prototype of the device on the breadboard was tested and was observed to be
functioning properly, the components were then soldered into a PCB and enclosed in a box.
The images of the final physical appearance of the device are included in the appendices.
The function of the device was tested to determine the effectiveness, duration of the
cycle, sensitivity of the ultrasonic sensor, response times of the pump and the timer, and timer
accuracy.
The effectiveness refers to whether the device delivers its function through every trial.
The duration of the cycle refers to the time measured from the moment the sensor is triggered
up until the last beep of the buzzer. It was measured using a digital stopwatch. The target
The amount of liquid dispensed was measured by placing a liquid measuring cup in
front of the tubing. The target value for the amount of liquid dispensed is 2.5 milliliters.
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For the sensitivity of the ultrasonic sensor, the maximum distance for detection that
will trigger the commencement of the function was measured. This was measured by
attaching a ruler to the side of the box and lining it up with the tip of the sensor. Another ruler
was slowly lowered above the sensor until it reached the maximum height at which the sensor
was triggered. The target value for the sensitivity of the sensor is 10 centimeters.
For the response time of the pump, the time it takes from the detection of a signal as
shown on the serial monitor up to the moment the soap is dispensed was measured. For the
response time of the timer, the time it takes from the sensor being triggered to the first blink
of the red LED was measured. A digital stopwatch was used to record the time. The target
value for the response time of the pump was 0.5 seconds and one second for the response
For the accuracy of the timer, the device timer will be timed for how long it takes for
the red LED and yellow LED to complete their cycle. The target value for this is 30 seconds.
The percent error for each of the parameters was computed and is determined by the
following formula:
�� − ��
х100
��
Where VT refers to the target value and VA refers to the actual value obtained.
All of the parameters were measured in five sets with three trials each. The pooled
mean was computed from the average of each trial. The overall percent error was based on
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Data Gathering
After the construction and testing of the device, the data were gathered and tabulated
prior to analysis. The data measured were effectiveness, duration of the cycle, sensitivity of
the ultrasonic sensor, response times of the pump and the timer, and timer accuracy.
Statistical Analysis
The data gathered were analyzed through statistical analysis. Analysis of Variance
(ANOVA) were used to determine whether there is a significant difference among the
obtained values for each parameter. The significance level was set at 0.05.
The results of the analysis were used to either accept or reject the hypotheses.
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This section contains the data presented in tables which were subsequently analyzed
and tabulated. The data were also interpreted based on the objectives they answer.
The device was successfully constructed by following all the steps on the correct
connection of the different wires in each component as can be seen in the schematic diagram
(Figure 1). The components of the device were enclosed in a plywood box which also serves
as the pedestal for the soap dispenser. The ultrasonic sensor was placed outside in front of the
soap bottle to be able to detect the hand. The slanted front enables the user to easily see the
three LED lights (red, yellow, green) that blink according to its set time, and the piezo buzzer
a. Cost
The researchers computed the overall cost of the materials used for the construction of
the device which is equal to Php 441.25. Most of the materials were bought from DEECO
Electronics while the DC pump motor, tube for the dispenser, and Arduino Uno were ordered
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The price of all the materials used were listed as seen on Table 1. We can see that the
constructed device was functioning properly regardless of the low cost of each component
compared to other expensive automatic hand soap dispensers. It is also Php 80.75 or 15%
cheaper compared to the least expensive iteration online that costs Php 522.
b. Physical Appearance
The base of the dispenser is an enclosed box made out of plywood, and the
components are kept inside to avoid getting soaked in water. The LEDs were placed in front
of the device to assist the user by providing a timer, making it easier for users to wash their
hands. Figure 14 in the appendices shows the physical appearance of the device. It is also
more portable since it can run on batteries. It can also be connected to a printer cable for
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c. Function
The purpose of the device plays a significant role in this time of pandemic as it will
help lessen the spread of virus. Once the ultrasonic sensor of the device detects a hand, the
DC pump will start to release the hand soap. By then, the LEDs will start to blink: 20 seconds
for the red LED, 10 seconds for the yellow LED and the green LED will blink three times
together with the piezo buzzer to give notification that the timer has officially ended.
Table 2 indicates that the cycles were effectively executed by the device and the
duration of the cycles is close to the accepted value with 1.45% overall percent error.
The device was tested with five (5) sets and three (3) trials each to determine the
duration of each cycle with a target value of 32.5 seconds. The data presented that the
duration of the cycles has a pooled mean of 32.97 seconds with an overall percent error
1.45%. This concludes that there is high accuracy with the duration of the device.
Positive (+) and negative (-) signs were used by the researchers to indicate the
effectiveness of the device in delivering its function. A positive sign indicates that its
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function was properly executed, whereas a negative sign indicates that the function was not
properly executed. According to the data collected, the device shows 100% effectiveness in
Table 3 presents the amount of liquid dispensed by the device. The device was tested
The mean on set 1 was 4.17 milliliters, 2.9 milliliters on set 2, 2.8 milliliters on set 3,
2.5 milliliters on set 4, and 2.47 milliliters in set 5. This suggests that set 1 has a huge
difference compared to the rest of the sets with an average percent error of 66.67%.
According to Khan (2011), an increase in voltage may cause load fluctuations or temperature
changes. In addition, the voltage is directly proportional to the pressure and the capacity to do
work. This concludes why the device releases an unusual amount of liquid during trial 1 of
set 1 as it may have received a sudden surge of electricity when the device was turned on.
However, the rest of the sets have low percent error indicating that the obtained values are
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close to the target value of 2.5 milliliters. All in all, the percent error of the amount dispensed
Table 4 shows the maximum distance that triggers the ultrasonic sensor. This was
centimeters with an overall percent error of 6.47%. In conclusion, the maximum distance of
the sensor has high accuracy and its function was properly executed. This also suggests that
the maximum distance that will trigger the sensor is ranging from 10.33 – 11.5 centimeter.
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Table 5 presents the time it takes for the pump to dispense the soap.
The results showed a pooled mean of 0.54 seconds with an overall percent error of
5.27%. The findings suggest that the pump responds properly with high accuracy to the target
Table 6 shows the time it takes for the timer to respond starting from triggering the
sensor until the first blink of the red LED. The target value of one second is based on the
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The results showed a pooled mean of 1.17 seconds with an overall percent error of
16.73%. This concludes that the pump responds properly with moderate accuracy to the
Table 7 presents the time it takes starting from the first blink of the red LED until the
last blink of the yellow LED which is the duration of the 30-second timer.
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The results showed a pooled mean of 29.92 seconds with an overall percent error of
0.28% when compared with the target value of 30 seconds. In conclusion, the timer
effectively executed its function in accordance with the suggestion of the Center of Disease
Control and Prevention (CDC) that hand washing should at least last for 20-30 seconds long.
The mean of the five sets of trials were analyzed using one-way ANOVA with an
a. Duration of Cycle
The mean of the five sets of trials that determine how long one cycle is in terms of
Total 2.175 14
Based on the results of the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) with 0.05 level of
significance, the calculated p-value was 0.474. It is greater than the alpha (P-value > α) and
less than the F-critical value of 3.478, therefore the null hypothesis is accepted. There is no
significant difference among the obtained values of the duration of the cycle.
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The mean of the five sets trials that determine the amount of liquid dispensed in terms
Total 25.193 14
Based on the results of the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) with 0.05 level of
significance, the calculated p-value was 0.580. It is greater than the alpha (P-value > α) and
less than the F-critical value of 3.478, therefore the null hypothesis is accepted. There is no
significant difference among the obtained values of the amount of liquid dispensed.
The mean of the five sets of trials that determine the sensitivity of the sensor, in terms
of the maximum height detected in centimeters, were compared using one-way ANOVA.
Total 3.337 14
Based on the results of the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) with 0.05 level of
significance, the calculated p-value was 0.518. It is greater than the alpha (P-value > α) and
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less than the F-critical value of 3.478, therefore the null hypothesis is accepted. There is no
significant difference among the obtained values of the sensitivity of the ultrasonic sensor.
Total 0.588 14
Based on the results of the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) with 0.05 level of
significance, the calculated p-value was 0.107. It is less than the F-critical value of 3.478 and
greater than the alpha (P-value > α), therefore the null hypothesis is accepted. There is no
significant difference among the obtained values of the response time of the pump.
Total 0.882 14
Based on the results of the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) with 0.05 level of
significance, the calculated p-value was 0.239. It is less than the F-critical value of 3.478 and
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greater than the alpha (P-value > α), therefore the null hypothesis is accepted. There is no
significant difference among the obtained values of the response time of the timer.
f. Accuracy of Timer
Total 0.688 14
Based on the results of the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) with 0.05 level of
significance, the calculated p-value was 0.245. It is less than the F-critical value of 3.478 and
greater than the alpha (P-value > α), therefore the null hypothesis is accepted. There is no
significant difference among the obtained values of the accuracy of the timer.
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This part contains the summary of the project, conclusions, and recommendations for
future researchers.
Summary
This study aimed to create a device that minimizes surface contact and provides a
guide for the users on the recommended duration of washing their hands. It was constructed
electrical relay, and LEDs and a buzzer for the timer. It was programmed using the Arduino
IDE to detect the hand within 10 centimeters in front of the sensor, which will then trigger the
pump to dispense 2.5 milliliters of soap as well as the timer. The red LED blinks for 20
seconds, the yellow LED blinks for the remaining 10 seconds, and the green LED and buzzer
turns on and off three times to signal that the timer is done.
The device costs Php 441.25 to construct which is Php 80.75 or 15% cheaper than the
price of the least expensive version found online. The main components were enclosed in a
box made of plywood and a glass jar containing the pump and the soap is placed on top of it;
The parameters tested were effectiveness, duration of the cycle, amount of liquid
dispensed, sensitivity of the ultrasonic sensor, response times of the pump and the timer, and
The device was found to be 100% effective in delivering its functions with a pooled
mean of 32.97 seconds and an overall percent error of 1.45% compared to the target value of
32.5 seconds for the duration of cycle. The amount of liquid dispensed had a pooled mean of
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2.97 milliliters and an overall percent error of 18.67% compared to the target value of 2.5
milliliters. The sensitivity of the ultrasonic sensor measured by the maximum distance
detected had a pooled mean of 10.65 centimeters and an overall percent error of 6.47%
Moreover, the response time of the pump had a pooled mean of 0.54 seconds and an
overall percent error of 8.27% compared to the target value of 0.5 seconds. The response time
of the timer had a pooled mean of 1.17 seconds and an overall percent error of 16.73%
compared to the target value of one second. Lastly, the accuracy of the timer had a pooled
mean of 29.92 seconds and an overall percent error of 0.28% compared to the target value of
30 seconds.
To test the consistency of the values measured, the data underwent ANOVA. The F-
value for the duration of the cycle is 0.951, for the amount of liquid dispensed is 0.751, for
the sensitivity of the sensor is 0.864, for the response time of the pump is 2.526, for the
response time of the timer is 1.643, and for the accuracy of the timer is 1.614. All F-values
were less than the critical value of 3.478 under the significance level of 0.05, and thus the
null hypotheses were all accepted; there are no significant differences among the obtained
Conclusions
1. The automatic hand soap dispenser with a timer was constructed using an Arduino
and a buzzer.
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a. Cost
The device costs Php 441.25 and is Php 80.75 or 15% cheaper than the least
expensive version of the device found online which costs Php 522.
b. Physical Appearance
The main component used for dispensing the soap is a DC pump which makes
it more durable compared to existing versions that use a micro servo motor to
pull the pump plunger. The components are also secured inside a wooden box
that can be easily opened for maintenance such as changing of batteries. The
front part of the box is slanted so that the user can easily see the LEDs.
c. Function
The device performs its function well based on the program installed in it. It
dispenses the soap as soon as the hand is detected and the LEDs and buzzer
version is more portable because it can run on batteries and can also be
The duration of the cycle had a pooled mean of 32.97 seconds and an overall
The amount of liquid dispensed had a pooled mean of 2.97 milliliters and an
overall percent error of 18.67% compared to the target value of 2.5 milliliters.
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detected had a pooled mean of 10.65 centimeters and an overall percent error
The response time of the pump had a pooled mean of 0.54 seconds and an
overall percent error of 8.27% compared to the target value of 0.5 seconds.
The response time of the timer had a pooled mean of 1.17 seconds and an
overall percent error of 16.73% compared to the target value of one second.
The accuracy of the timer had a pooled mean of 29.92 seconds and an overall
4. There is no significant difference among the obtained values for the duration of the
cycle.
5. There is no significant difference among the obtained values for the amount of liquid
dispensed.
6. There is no significant difference among the obtained values for the sensitivity of the
ultrasonic sensor.
7. There is no significant difference among the obtained values for the response time of
the pump.
8. There is no significant difference among the obtained values for the response time of
the timer.
9. There is no significant difference among the obtained values for the accuracy of the
timer.
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Recommendations
1. Future designs may use an LCD or a servo motor for analog time. An IR sensor can
2. A 3D-printed plastic casing may be used instead of wood to make it more durable and
water-resistant.
it from misfiring when it receives a sudden surge of electricity when the device is
turned on.
5. Hand soaps of different viscosities may be tested in order to check the versatility of
the pump.
6. The placement of the sensor may be improved to prevent it from catching dust or even
water.
7. Other components in place of the pump may be used in order to omit the use of an
8. Future designs may use a different indicator for the end of the timer instead of using a
buzzer.
9. Accuracy of the timer can be tested and compared among different time indicators,
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REFERENCES
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Migatron Corp. (2021). 15 Applications for Ultrasonic Sensors. Retrieved 10 May 2021,
from https://www.migatron.com/ultrasonic-detections-and-control-applications/
Nagar, T. (2019). What is Software and Types of Software with Examples. MyStory.
Retrieved from. https://yourstory.com/mystory/what-software-types-examples/amp
National Purity. (2013). Use Automatic Soap Dispensers to Promote Health. Retrieved
10 May 2021, from https://nationalpurity.com/use-automatic-soap-dispensers-to-
promote-
health/#:~:text=Automatic%20soap%20dispensers%20do%20not%20have%20to%
20be%20touched%20in,them%20to%20the%20next%20user.
Opensource (2015). What is an Arduino?. Retrieved 10 May 2021, from
https://opensource.com/resources/what-arduino
Pedamkar, P. (2018). Uses of C++ | Top 10 Reasons Why You Should Use C++.
Retrieved 10 May 2021, from https://www.educba.com/uses-of-c-plus-plus/
Projects, E. (2019). Difference between Arduino and 8051(89c51,89c52)
Microcontrollers. Retrieved 10 May 2021, from
https://www.engineersgarage.com/knowledge_share/arduino-vs-microcontrollers/
Radikovna, S. L. and Kurbangalievna, I. G. (2015). Computer Hardware Basics:
Intermediate Level.
Raquo, M. (2021). Automatic Soap Dispenser With Hand Wash Timer . Retrieved 10
May 2021, from https://www.instructables.com/Automatic-Soap-Dispenser-With-
Hand-Wash-Timer/
Robu (2020). Types of Proximity Sensor - Inductive, Capacitive, Optical, Magnetic, IR.
Retrieved 10 May 2021, from https://robu.in/types-of-proximity-sensor/
Sparkfun (n.d.). What is an Arduino? Retrieved 10 May 2021, from
https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/what-is-an-arduino/all#the-arduino-family
Sparkfun. (n.d.). Arduino Shields. Retrieved 10 May 2021, from
https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/arduino-shields/all
Tambekar, D. H., & Shirsat, S. D. (2009). Hand washing: a cornerstone to prevent the
transmission of diarrhoeal infection. Asian J Med Sci, 1(3), 100-3.Retrieved 10
May 2021, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XmJTUcj09tA
Techatronic (2021). Automatic Soap Dispenser with Timer 20 Seconds.
TechBuilder (2020). DIY Automatic Alcohol Dispenser ($3 No Arduino Needed)
Vidyakar, V. (2018). Best projects based on Ultrasonic sensor. Retrieved 10 May 2021,
from https://www.skyfilabs.com/project-ideas/latest-projects-based-on-Ultrasonic-
sensor
WHO (2009). Hand Hygiene Why How and When. Retrieved 10 May 2021, from
https://www.who.int/gpsc/5may/Hand_Hygiene_Why_How_and_When_Brochure.
pdf
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APPENDICES
Appendix A. Materials
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CURRICULUM VITAE
Name: LARA SANTIAGO ROXAS
Address: 234 Purok Aguso, Barangay Pangatian,
Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija
Cellular Phone No.: 09435080680
Email Address: [email protected]
PERSONAL DATA
Age : 18 years old
Date of Birth : October 27, 2002
Place of Birth : Cabanatuan City
Sex : Female
Civil Status : Single
Citizenship : Filipino
Religion : Roman Catholic
Mother’s Name : Evangeline S. Roxas
Father’s Name : Virgilio S. Roxas
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
Elementary:
Little Merry Hearts Montessori Center
Cabanatuan City
2009-2015
Secondary:
Santiago City National High School
Santiago City
2015-2016
Nueva Ecija High School
Cabanatuan City
2016-2019
Senior High School:
Nueva Ecija High School - SHS
Cabanatuan City
2019-2021
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CURRICULUM VITAE
Name: DHEA MAE DL. MADIS
Address: Gumamela St., Brgy. Platero,
Gen. Mamerto Natividad, Nueva Ecija
Cellular Phone No.: 09159502593
Email Address: [email protected]
PERSONAL DATA
Age : 18 years old
Date of Birth : May 10, 2003
Place of Birth : Cabanatuan City
Sex : Female
Civil Status : Single
Citizenship : Filipino
Religion : Roman Catholic
Mother’s Name : Roshelle DL. Madis
Father’s Name : Darius F. Madis
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
Elementary:
Platero Elementary School
General M. Natividad
2009-2015
Secondary:
Nueva Ecija High School
Cabanatuan City
2015-2019
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CURRICULUM VITAE
Name: ROSANNA B. ALOTA
Address: 378 Leonor Village, Aduas Sur,
Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija
Cellular Phone No.: 09757575017
Email Address: [email protected]
PERSONAL DATA
Age : 18 years old
Date of Birth : December 1 , 2002
Place of Birth : Cabanatuan City
Sex : Female
Civil Status : Single
Citizenship : Filipino
Religion : Iglesia Ni Cristo
Mother’s Name : Jocelyn B. Alota
Father’s Name : Joel DG. Alota
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
Elementary:
P.G. Crisostomo Elementary School
Cabanatuan City
2009-2015
Secondary:
Nueva Ecija High School
Cabanatuan City
2015-2019
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CURRICULUM VITAE
Name: NICOLE G. ESLAYA
Address: Purok 7 Barangay San Isidro,
Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija
Cellular Phone No.: 09389871647
Email Address: [email protected]
PERSONAL DATA
Age : 17 years old
Date of Birth : August 18, 2003
Place of Birth : Cabanatuan City
Sex : Female
Civil Status : Single
Citizenship : Filipino
Religion : Roman Catholic
Mother’s Name : Celeste G. Eslaya
Father’s Name : Alvin Q. Eslaya
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
Elementary:
San Isidro Integrated School
Cabanatuan City
2009-2015
Secondary:
Nueva Ecija High School
Cabanatuan City
2015-2019
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CURRICULUM VITAE
Name: JAMES CHRISTIAN BARCELO LOMBOY
Address: 20 Zulueta St. Purok 1 Brgy. Vijandre,
Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija
Cellular Phone No.: 09260762024
Email Address: [email protected]
PERSONAL DATA
Age : 17 years old
Date of Birth : September 04, 2003
Place of Birth : Cabanatuan City
Sex : Male
Civil Status : Single
Citizenship : Filipino
Religion : Iglesia ni Cristo
Mother’s Name : Lorena B. Lomboy
Father’s Name : Rogelio A. Lomboy
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
Elementary:
Lazaro Francisco Elementary School
Cabanatuan city
2009-2015
Secondary:
Nueva Ecija High School
Cabanatuan city
2015-2019
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