Carnegie Mellon University

Field Robotics Center

We are developing wireless technology for distributed sensing and actuation in horticultural enterprises. We have an inexpensive, easily installed system that monitors environmental data and implements remote (or even automatic) actuation of sprinklers, fans, heaters, and other devices based on sensory inputs.

Our system is in use at several horticultural enterprises throughout the country. Our sensor nodes are used by researchers trying to understand plant growth and development, and by growers interested in improving plant quality while decreasing the operating cost (water, pesticides, etc...).

We are actively deploying sensor networks in nurseries, greenhouses, greenroofs, and orchards. In all of these areas, we are working with growers and domain specialists to solve relevant problems. We also provide remote access to many of our sensor networks so growers and researchers can monitor the sites as well as allow the growers to control irrigation from remote locations. The first generation of sensor web technology was installed in September of 2003.

Contact: Dr. George Kantor at the Field Robotics Center located at Carnegie Mellon University

For more information please visit Smart-Farms.

This work is supported by the USDA SCRI-MINDS project and is being led by the University of Maryland.