In this sera era, the growth of smart sensors has revolutionized agriculture, ushering in an era of precision and data-driven farming. This chapter provides an overview of the application of smart sensors in smart agriculture, highlighting their important role in achieving better crop production. In the face of a growing global population and changing climatic conditions, the demand for increased crop yields and resource efficiency has never been greater. Smart agriculture, empowered by smart sensors, emerges as a solution to these challenges. While the adoption of smart sensors in agriculture provides huge benefits, challenges remain, including data security, interoperability, and accessibility for small-scale farmers. However, as technology continues to advance and become more accessible, smart sensors-based smart agriculture holds the promise of addressing the global food security and sustainability challenges of the 21st century. This chapter provides the important role of smart sensors in achieving better crop production and more efficient and sustainable agricultural practices.
TopIntroduction To Smart Sensors, And Smart Agriculture
Smart sensors are advanced devices that integrate traditional sensors with computational capabilities, communication interfaces, and data processing to provide real-time, actionable information (Liu Y. et al., 2020). These sensors are designed to collect and analyze data from their environment and transmit it to a central system or the cloud for further processing and decision-making. Smart sensors have found applications in various fields, including agriculture, healthcare, industrial automation, environmental monitoring, and more. Few key characteristics of smart sensors include Sensing Capabilities (Smart sensors are equipped with various sensing elements, such as temperature, humidity, pressure, light, motion, and more, depending on the specific application), Data Processing (i.e., unlike traditional sensors that merely measure and transmit raw data, smart sensors can process and analyze data locally. This processing can include filtering, data fusion, feature extraction, and even machine learning algorithms), Communication (i.e., Smart sensors are capable of communicating with other devices or systems through wireless or wired connections. They can transmit data to a central control system, a mobile app, or the cloud), energy efficiency (i.e., Smart sensors are designed to optimize power consumption, often using low-power microcontrollers and communication protocols to extend their operational life) and Real-time Feedback (i.e., They provide real-time feedback to improve decision-making and control systems in various applications).
Now here will explain few essential terms like smart agriculture, etc., as:
- •
Smart Agriculture: Smart agriculture, also known as precision agriculture or precision farming (Pradhan P. et al., 2020; Huang B. and Yan L., 2019), is the use of advanced technologies and data-driven solutions to enhance the efficiency, sustainability, and productivity of farming practices. Smart agriculture uses smart sensors, automation, and data analytics to monitor and manage various aspects of farming, including crop cultivation, livestock management, and resource utilization. Few key components and applications of smart agriculture include:
- •
Smart Sensors: Smart sensors play an important role in monitoring soil conditions (e.g., moisture, pH levels), weather data (temperature, humidity, rainfall), crop health (through spectral imaging), and livestock tracking (e.g., GPS collars). These sensors enable real-time data collection and analysis.
- •
Data Analytics: Data collected from smart sensors is processed and analyzed to gain information about crop health, soil conditions, and resource management. Machine learning and AI algorithms can predict disease outbreaks, optimal planting times, and yield forecasts.
Now few other terms are here:
- •
Precision Farming: Smart agriculture promotes precise application of resources such as water, fertilizers, and pesticides. This reduces waste and minimizes environmental impact while improving crop yields.
- •
Livestock Management: Smart agriculture includes tracking and monitoring livestock using GPS, sensors, and data analytics to ensure the health and well-being of animals and optimize their productivity.
- •
Remote Monitoring and Control: Farmers can remotely monitor and control irrigation systems, equipment, and other aspects of their operations using mobile apps and cloud-based platforms.
- •
Environmental Sustainability: Smart agriculture aims to reduce the environmental footprint of farming by optimizing resource use, reducing waste, and minimizing the use of harmful chemicals.
- •
IoT and Connectivity: IoT plays an important role in smart agriculture, connecting all components and allowing data to be collected and transmitted for analysis and decision-making.