Embedded System for Automatic Irrigation of Cardamom Field using Xbee-PRO Technology

Abstract

This project proposed an embedded system for automatic mist irrigation for cardamom field, which has a wireless sensor network for real time infield sensing and control of an irrigation system. This wireless system supports the cardamom field which has both plain and slope areas. Too much watering causes diseases to cardamom. This system provides uniform and required level of water for both plain and slope areas and therefore it avoids the water overflow at the slope areas which saves the plant and also water. This system has software for real-time in-field sensing and control of an irrigation system. Field conditions were site-specifically monitored by in-field sensor stations distributed across the field and then wirelessly transmitted to a base station. This irrigation system updates solenoid valves for specified location of mist emitters automatically according to the set point of temperature, humidity and soil moisture. This system also senses the water level of the tank and whenever the water level is too low then the system immediately provides a visual and sound alarm and then it automatically switches ON the motor. When the water level reaches 90% of the tank then the motor is switched OFF through the remote system. Communication signals from the sensor network and irrigation controller to the base station interfaced using Xbee-PRO communication and this technology is a low-cost, low-power wireless sensor network. The modules operate within the 2.4 GHz frequency band and outdoor RF line-of-sight range up to 4000 ft. (1200 m) and RF Data Rate 250,000 bps.