WireDepth: IoT-Enabled Multi-Sensor Depth Monitoring for Precision Subsoiling in Sugarcane

Abstract

Subsoil compaction is a major constraint in sugarcane production, limiting yields and reducing resource-use efficiency. This study presents WireDepth, an innovative cloud-connected monitoring system that leverages edge computing and IoT technologies for real-time, spatially aware analysis and visualization of subsoiling depth. The system integrates ultrasonic, laser, inclinometer, and potentiometer sensors mounted on the subsoiler, with on-board microcontroller processing and dual wireless connectivity (LoRaWAN and NB-IoT/LTE-M) for robust data transmission. A cloud platform delivers advanced analytics, including 3D depth maps and operational efficiency metrics. System accuracy was assessed using 300 reference depth measurements, with Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) calculated per sensor. The inclinometer and potentiometer achieved the highest accuracy (MAPE of 0.92% and 0.84%, respectively), with no significant deviation from field measurements (paired t-tests, p > 0.05). Ultrasonic and laser sensors exhibited higher errors, particularly at shallow depths, due to soil debris interference. Correlation analysis confirmed a significant effect of depth on sensor accuracy, with laser sensors showing the strongest association (Pearson r = 0.457, p < 0.001). Field validation in commercial sugarcane fields demonstrated that WireDepth improves subsoiling precision, reduces energy waste, and supports sustainable production by enhancing soil structure and root development. These findings advance precision agriculture by offering a scalable, real-time solution for subsoiling management, with broad implications for yield improvement in compaction-affected systems.