Design and fabrication of an affordable touchless water tap

Abstract

This paper presents an affordable touchless water tap system designed to promote hands-free operation and efficient water usage. Through extensive research and analysis, a customized design was developed using readily available and cost-effective components. The major components utilized were an IR sensor, an optocoupler to electrically isolate the sensor from other components for safety, a transistor, a relay, and a pump. The IR sensor detects the hand and sends a signal to the transistor to activate the relay switch. The relay switch once activated, it completes the ground circuit of the pump and water is activated. A prototype was constructed and tested to evaluate the performance. The touchless tap system demonstrated accurate hand detection, minimizing false triggers, and incorporated a water-saving feature that is to say automatic shut-off . This project successfully developed an affordable touchless water tap system and combines hygiene, convenience, and water conservation. Its low-cost design and efficient operation make it suitable for schools, restrooms, and commercial spaces, promoting improved sanitation practices and responsible water usage.