A Low Cost Energy Efficient IoT Node Utilized in the Agricultural Field
John Gialelis, Maria Fokaeos, Gerasimos Theodorou, Christos Paparizos, Nikos Tsafas
Abstract
An Internet of Things (IoT) Node, bearing several noteworthy features such as being a low-cost, energy efficient and easy to install and operate item, is introduced. It is ideal for monitoring a variety of soil and plant parameters like moisture, temperature, leaf wetness and others. The IoT node is microcontroller based which comprises a low power Cortex™M3 processor from ARM®, a high-performance RF module, a high speed 12-bit ADC, nonvolatile Flash/EE memory and SRAM. Unhindered operation is ensured by a power supply system that charges a Lithium-ion storage element based on an integrated low drop out boost regulator that converts dc power from a PV cell. Furthermore, the node provides I2C, SPI and UART connectors for connecting the various sensors and Serial Wire Debug (SWD) for system debugging or firmware download. The efficiency of the proposed IoT node customized with in-house made sensors is demonstrated in vineyard fields. As it operates in the fields, it facilitates the collection of data for feeding algorithmic models from which useful conclusions can be drawn for more efficient field watering, prevention of vineyard diseases and others regarding the welfare of plants.