IoT-enabled Smart Drug Despencing Unit with Synchronized Real-time Monitoring

Abstract

The increasing need for reliable and timely medication management has led to the development of intelligent healthcare solutions that minimize human dependency and reduce errors in drug administration. This study introduces an Internet of Things (IoT) enabled system designed to support accurate and automated delivery of prescribed medications, particularly for elderly individuals, patients with chronic conditions, and those following complex treatment schedules. These groups are often vulnerable to missed doses or incorrect intake, which can significantly impact health outcomes. The system is centered around an ESP-32 microcontroller integrated with a Real-Time Clock (RTC) module to maintain precise scheduling of medication routines. A user-friendly mobile application interface allows caregivers and medical professionals to remotely monitor and manage medication timings, ensuring continuous supervision even from distant locations. A Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) unit provides real-time information regarding scheduled doses, while a speaker module enables audible alerts to notify users at the appropriate time, improving adherence and awareness. To further enhance automation, compartment drive mechanisms are incorporated to release the correct medication at predefined intervals. The system also leverages IoT cloud connectivity to enable remote tracking, data logging, and alert notifications in case of missed doses or irregularities. A Regulated Power Supply (RPS) ensures consistent and uninterrupted operation of all components. By combining automation, real-time monitoring, and remote accessibility, this approach offers a practical and scalable solution for modern healthcare needs. It significantly reduces the risks associated with manual medication handling and provides a dependable support system for both patients and caregivers across home and clinical environments.