Sensor node network for remote moisture measurement in timber based on bluetooth low energy and web-based monitoring system

Abstract

This paper proposes an IoT system based on wireless BLE connectivity to monitor the moisture content of wood, using a compact and low-cost moisture device that relies on a resistance measurement method valid for an ultra-wide range of resistance values. This device is digitally controlled with a BLE-incorporated micro-controller characterized by its small size and low power consumption, providing long-life battery. The proposed system consists of two main parts: first, the BLE moisture device including the moisture content measurement and wireless capability (BLE); second, the cloud-based monitoring platform, providing remote visualization and control for all the sensor nodes of the network. The complete infrastructure shows how multiple nodes can read and transmit moisture content of timber in buildings using small and unattended devices, with data saved in a central database and monitored by multiple commercial devices such as PC, smartphone, tablet, etc. The proposed system is innovative, scalable and low cost, and it can be deployed in wooden buildings and the wood industry, providing a practical solution that will help to avoid rot and other damaging effects caused by the moisture content.