Sustainability of precision agriculture as a proposal for the development of autonomous crops using IoT

Abstract

Agricultural activities have experienced a significant increase due to population growth; hence, the demand for food has risen to the point where prioritizing greater efficiency and quality in crop production within a short period is crucial. This paper addresses the contemporary need to design prototypes focused on optimizing natural resources, specifically in the agricultural sector, where recurring wastage of water, fertilizers, and pesticides is evident. This research proposes a comprehensive prototype incorporating a monitoring and control system managed through the IoT Arduino Cloud platform using an ESP32 development board to improve resource management from the initial germination stages to harvest. The planting phase is based on a 3D printer mechanism with three-dimensional movements controlled. The monitoring system includes real-time visualization of variables such as temperature, soil humidity, and electrical magnitudes, as well as the automation of the irrigation and fertilization system. In this regard, the results demonstrated efficient resource management in cultivation. Additionally, the photovoltaic system contributes to a more sustainable and efficient management approach.