[0001] The present invention relates to irrigation devices and more particularly, to a soil
moisture sensing device which helps determine the moisture content in the soil surrounding the device.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0002] The background description includes information that may be useful in
understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
[0003] Generally, in irrigation systems utilizing a moisture sensor, a moisture sensor is
placed in the ground that outputs information about a moisture level of surrounding soil to an irrigation controller in a separate location. The irrigation controller is typically coupled to and controls multiple valves that control water flow to one or more sprinkler devices. The irrigation controller processes the information received from the sensor and modifies a watering cycle for one or more valves based upon the moisture sensor measurements, e.g., when the soil reaches given moisture content, further irrigation is prevented. In many irrigation systems, the controller uses a single moisture sensor for all of the zones (a zone generally defined as an area watered by a given valve) within the irrigation system. This is a problem when, for example, different zones have different soil types or are exposed to a different amount of sunlight or weather conditions than the soil in which the moisture sensor is located.
[0004] Capacitance based moisture sensors generally operate by immersing two
electrodes in soil, which forms a dielectric around the electrodes. The capacitance generated
between the electrodes varies with the dielectric constant of the soil (which is known to vary
with moisture content). However, known capacitance based sensors operate unreliably and are
influenced by factors such as variations in temperature and supply voltage.
[0005] Several soil moisture sensors and associated systems already exist. Some indicate
moisture by means of lamps to people proximate. Others require at least two electrodes to function. Still others are configured with timer systems to switch them on and off per a pre-

determined schedule and hence save power. Others have a visual/ audible alarm that triggers
under pre-determined conditions. Yet other systems are configured with an irrigation system to
provide water to area the moisture sensor is serving if moisture sensed falls below a certain level.
Other systems are configured with alarms that will not work without ambient light, thereby
causing no disturbance to people nearby. Some other systems transmit moisture level measured
by means of RF signals to above ground receivers. Another uses a granular matrix wherein
electrical impedance between two electrodes varies per conductivity which in turn depends upon
moisture content. Some other systems do not require calibration, relying instead on waveforms
that are created and analyzed at precise time increments to determine moisture content.
[0006] Existing systems however, are prone to breakage due plurality of electrodes used
in their sensors. Sensors are made with materials that quickly corrode over time. Further electrodes are fixed in such sensors and once they become defective for any reason whatsoever, whole sensor needs to be replaced. Systems existing transfer data over wi-fi, if at all. Wi-fi has a very limited range and is expensive. Accordingly such systems find very limited use. Most of the settings - such as frequency of taking moisture readings - in existing systems come pre-configured by the manufacture and cannot be changed in the field even if so required. Existing systems consume large power or have to be switched off intermittently or require batteries that need frequent replacement / recharge. Users of such systems have no idea regarding battery status of sensors and so, such systems are highly unreliable as they can fail at any time due lack of power. They are prone to theft and have no arrangement to discourage or prevent such theft. Further, most existing systems require sensors with complicated electronic circuitry that can easily be affected by field conditions such as rain and sunshine leading to a very short life for them.
[0007] Hence there is a need in the art for a soil moisture detection system that over
comes existing limitations as elaborated above.
[0008] All publications herein are incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each
individual publication or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. Where a definition or use of a term in an incorporated reference is inconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein applies and the definition of that term in the reference does not apply.

[0009] In some embodiments, the numbers expressing quantities or dimensions of items,
and so forth, used to describe and claim certain embodiments of the invention are to be understood as being modified in some instances by the term "about." Accordingly, in some embodiments, the numerical parameters set forth in the written description and attached claims are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by a particular embodiment. In some embodiments, the numerical parameters should be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope of some embodiments of the invention are approximations, the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely as practicable. The numerical values presented in some embodiments of the invention may contain certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements.
[00010] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the
meaning of "a," "an," and "the" includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of "in" includes "in" and "on" unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[00011] The recitation of ranges of values herein is merely intended to serve as a
shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g. "such as") provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention.
[00012] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed
herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the

specification is herein deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written description of all groups used in the appended claims.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[00013] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide for a soil moisture sensing
device that is not prone to moisture ingress in the field.
[00014] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide for a soil moisture sensing
device that uses a probe that can be replaced with needing to replace the whole device itself.
[00015] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide for a soil moisture sensing
device that can communicate relevant data inexpensively over long distances and enables such
data to be provided to user wherever he is.
[00016] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide for a soil moisture sensing
device in which relevant parameters can be configured by user according to his/her requirements.
[00017] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide for a soil moisture sensing
device that does not need replacement of its battery for a very long time and transmits its battery
status to user as and when required.
[00018] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide for a soil moisture sensing
device that discourages its theft.
[00019] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide for a soil moisture sensing
device that is rugged and economical.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[00020] The present invention relates to irrigation devices and more particularly, to a soil
moisture sensing device that can be permanently installed in a field to detect and transmit soil moisture data and its location data to remote users and can be configured remotely. The device disclosed is rugged and of waterproof design with its soil moisture probe easily replaceable. It has a long lasting power supply that includes a solar power system and a rechargeable battery. In an exemplary embodiment, user can send a missed call or SMS from his/her mobile device to a pre-configured number to receive soil moisture data on his/her mobile phone. Device disclosed can receive commands and transmit results over short as well as long distances using a variety of external systems and devices.

[00021] In an aspect, the present disclosure describes a soil moisture sensing device
(SMSD that can include: a soil moisture probe to receive a configuration signal, and measure soil
moisture content at a location upon receipt of the configuration signal so as to generate at least
one soil moisture content based signal; an analog to digital converter (ADC) module to convert
the at least one soil moisture content based signal to at least one digital soil moisture content
based signal; a location module to generate at least one digital location based signal for the
location; and a communication module to transmit any or combination of the at least one digital
soil moisture content based signal and the at least one digital location based signal to a digital
device.
[00022] In another aspect, the device (SMSD) can further include a first printed circuit
board (PCB) configured to hold all the modules in a fully waterproof polycarbonate casing,
wherein the first PCB enables mounting of the soil moisture probe upon itself in a replaceable
manner.
[00023] In yet another aspect, the soil moisture probe of the device can be capacitance
based and can be configured on a second PCB within a thin watertight coating formed around the
second PCB. Further, the soil moisture probe of the device can have a plurality of sensing points.
[00024] In another aspect, the ADC module of the device can be configured to sample
analog signal generated by the soil moisture probe using a sampling rate of about 8000 samples
per second.
[00025] In yet another aspect, the configuration signal of the device can be based on any
or a combination of pre-determined time intervals, absolute time, missed call on a pre-configured
phone number and SMS on a pre-configured phone number.
[00026] In an aspect, the digital device can be one from a group comprising a mobile
device, a smartphone, a personal computer, a laptop, a tablet, and a web-enabled device.
[00027] In another aspect, the device (SMSD) can send an alarm signal to the digital
device as soon as the at least one digital location based signal changes by a pre-determined
threshold.
[00028] In yet another aspect, the device (SMSD) can have a power module to provide
power to the device from any or a combination of solar power and a rechargeable battery,
wherein the communication module can communicate the rechargeable battery status data to the

digital device; and the power module can cut power to the device when battery voltage level drops below a pre-determined threshold.
[00029] In another aspect, present disclosure describes an irrigation pump configured to
maintain soil moisture at a location determined by at least one location based signal at a pre-
configured level, wherein the irrigation pump can operate according to at least one digital soil
moisture content based signal generated by a soil moisture sensing device described herein.
[00030] Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will
become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like features.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[00031] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of
the present disclosure, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The
drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the
description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.
[00032] The diagrams are for illustration only, which thus is not a limitation of the present
disclosure, and wherein:
[00033] FIG. 1 illustrates functional modules of a soil moisture sensing device in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, to elaborate upon its
working.
[00034] FIG 2 illustrates electronic specifications of a soil moisture sensing device in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[00035] FIG. 3 illustrates logic deployed by a soil moisture sensing device in accordance
with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, illustrating dual communication
between user and device so that the user can retrieve readings on demand by sending an SMS to
the device.
[00036] FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B illustrate exemplary schematics of a soil moisture probe and
PCB used in a soil moisture sensing device in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the
present disclosure.
[00037] FIG. 5 illustrates a board layout diagram of a soil moisture sensing device in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[00038] FIG. 6 illustrates CAD drawing of a soil moisture sensing device in accordance
with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[00039] FIG. 7 illustrates a 3D rendering of a soil moisture sensing device in accordance
with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[00040] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to
provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present invention. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that embodiments of the present invention may be practiced without some of these specific details.
[00041] Embodiments of the present invention include various steps, which will be
described below. The steps may be performed by hardware components or may be embodied in machine-executable instructions, which may be used to cause a general-purpose or special-purpose processor programmed with the instructions to perform the steps. Alternatively, steps may be performed by a combination of hardware, software, and firmware and/or by human operators.
[00042] Embodiments of the present invention may be provided as a computer program
product, which may include a machine-readable storage medium tangibly embodying thereon instructions, which may be used to program a computer (or other electronic devices) to perform a process. The machine-readable medium may include, but is not limited to, fixed (hard) drives, magnetic tape, floppy diskettes, optical disks, compact disc read-only memories (CD-ROMs), and magneto-optical disks, semiconductor memories, such as ROMs, PROMs, random access memories (RAMs), programmable read-only memories (PROMs), erasable PROMs (EPROMs), electrically erasable PROMs (EEPROMs), flash memory, magnetic or optical cards, or other type of media/machine-readable medium suitable for storing electronic instructions (e.g., computer programming code, such as software or firmware).
[00043] Various methods described herein may be practiced by combining one or more
machine-readable storage media containing the code according to the present invention with appropriate standard computer hardware to execute the code contained therein. An apparatus for practicing various embodiments of the present invention may involve one or more computers (or one or more processors within a single computer) and storage systems containing or having

network access to computer program(s) coded in accordance with various methods described herein, and the method steps of the invention could be accomplished by modules, routines, subroutines, or subparts of a computer program product.
[00044] If the specification states a component or feature "may", "can", "could", or
"might" be included or have a characteristic, that particular component or feature is not required to be included or have the characteristic.
[00045] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the
meaning of "a," "an," and "the" includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of "in" includes "in" and "on" unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[00046] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter with
reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. These embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those of ordinary skill in the art. Moreover, all statements herein reciting embodiments of the invention, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass both structural and functional equivalents thereof. Additionally, it is intended that such equivalents include both currently known equivalents as well as equivalents developed in the future (i.e., any elements developed that perform the same function, regardless of structure).
[00047] Thus, for example, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that
the diagrams, schematics, illustrations, and the like represent conceptual views or processes illustrating systems and methods embodying this invention. The functions of the various elements shown in the figures may be provided through the use of dedicated hardware as well as hardware capable of executing associated software. Similarly, any switches shown in the figures are conceptual only. Their function may be carried out through the operation of program logic, through dedicated logic, through the interaction of program control and dedicated logic, or even manually, the particular technique being selectable by the entity implementing this invention. Those of ordinary skill in the art further understand that the exemplary hardware, software, processes, methods, and/or operating systems described herein are for illustrative purposes and, thus, are not intended to be limited to any particular named element.

[00048] Each of the appended claims defines a separate invention, which for infringement
purposes is recognized as including equivalents to the various elements or limitations specified in the claims. Depending on the context, all references below to the "invention" may in some cases refer to certain specific embodiments only. In other cases it will be recognized that references to the "invention" will refer to subject matter recited in one or more, but not necessarily all, of the claims.
[00049] All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless
otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all
examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments
herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the
scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed
as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention.
[00050] Various terms as used herein are shown below. To the extent a term used in a
claim is not defined below, it should be given the broadest definition persons in the pertinent art
have given that term as reflected in printed publications and issued patents at the time of filing.
[00051] The present invention relates to irrigation devices and more particularly, to a soil
moisture sensing device (interchangeably termed as device or SMSD herein) that can be
permanently installed in a field to detect and transmit soil moisture data and its location data to
remote users and can be configured remotely. The device disclosed is rugged and of waterproof
design with its soil moisture probe easily replaceable. It has a long lasting power supply that
includes a solar power system and a rechargeable battery. In an exemplary embodiment, user
can send a missed call or SMS from his/her mobile device to a pre-configured number to receive
soil moisture data on his/her mobile phone. Device disclosed can receive commands and transmit
results over short as well as long distances using a variety of external systems and devices.
[00052] In an aspect, the present disclosure describes a soil moisture sensing device
(SMSD) that can include: a soil moisture probe to receive a configuration signal, and measure soil moisture content at a location upon receipt of the configuration signal so as to generate at least one soil moisture content based signal; an analog to digital converter (ADC) module to convert the at least one soil moisture content based signal to at least one digital soil moisture content based signal; a location module to generate at least one digital location based signal for the location; and a communication module to transmit any or combination of the at least one
10

digital soil moisture content based signal and the at least one digital location based signal to a digital device.
[00053] In another aspect, the device (SMSD) can further include a first printed circuit
board (PCB) configured to hold all the modules in a fully waterproof polycarbonate casing, wherein the first PCB enables mounting of the soil moisture probe upon itself in a replaceable manner.
[00054] In yet another aspect, the soil moisture probe of the device can be capacitance
based and can be configured on a second PCB within a thin watertight coating formed around the
second PCB. Further, the soil moisture probe of the device can have a plurality of sensing points.
[00055] In another aspect, the ADC module of the device can be configured to sample
analog signal generated by the soil moisture probe using a sampling rate of about 8000 samples per second.
[00056] In yet another aspect, the configuration signal of the device can be based on any
or a combination of pre-determined time intervals, absolute time, missed call on a pre-configured phone number and SMS on a pre-configured phone number.
[00057] In an aspect, the digital device can be one from a group comprising a mobile
device, a smartphone, a personal computer, a laptop, a tablet, and a web-enabled device.
[00058] In another aspect, the device (SMSD) can send an alarm signal to the digital
device as soon as the at least one digital location based signal changes by a pre-determined threshold.
[00059] In yet another aspect, the device (SMSD) can have a power module to provide
power to the device from any or a combination of solar power and a rechargeable battery, wherein the communication module can communicate the rechargeable battery status data to the digital device; and the power module can cut power to the device when battery voltage level drops below a pre-determined threshold.
[00060] In another aspect, present disclosure describes an irrigation pump configured to
maintain soil moisture at a location determined by at least one location based signal at a pre-configured level, wherein the irrigation pump can operate according to at least one digital soil moisture content based signal generated by a soil moisture sensing device described herein.
11

[00061] Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will
become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along
with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like features.
[00062] FIG. 1 illustrates functional modules of a soil moisture sensing device in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, to elaborate upon its working.
[00063] In an aspect, the soil moisture sensing device (interchangeably termed as device
or SMSD herein) disclosed can be permanently installed in a field by a user to detect and transmit soil moisture data. Soil moisture data can be transmitted by device disclosed at pre-defined intervals or when requested by a user. In an exemplary embodiment, device disclosed can measure moisture at a soil depth of 0-15 cm.
[00064] In another aspect the device disclosed can include a soil moisture probe 102, an
ADC (analog to digital converter) module 104, a communication module 106, a clock module 108, a location module 110, a configuration module 112, a power module 114 and a PCB 116, as illustrated in FIG. 1.
[00065] In another aspect, probe 102 can be a capacitance based soil moisture sensor and
can be operatively connected to other modules of the device as elaborated herein. Probe 102 can be inserted in soil to measure its dielectric constant and generate soil moisture content based signals according to which moisture content of soil can be determined.
[00066] In an aspect, probe 102 can have a plurality of sensing points/ regions for
increased accuracy. In an exemplary implementation, probe 102 can measure dielectric constant at 0-12 cm and at 12-25 cm.
[00067] In an aspect, probe 102 can send soil moisture content based signals to ADC
module 104 that can convert such signals to digital signals and forward them to communication module 106. Probe 102 can send such signals either at pre-determined time intervals set by the user via clock module 108, or when so instructed by communication module 106. Communication module 106 can pass such instructions to probe 102 upon receipt of, for example, an SMS from a user of the device disclosed. In an alternate embodiment a user can make a missed call to a pre-configured number to “wake up” the device disclosed and receive back moisture content reading generated by probe 102 on his/her cell phone device or via an alternate mode of communication such as e-mail.
12

[00068] In another aspect, soil moisture probe 102 can be configured to be on a PCB that
can be, in an exemplary embodiment, of size 24 cm x 3 cm with a thickness of 0.16 cm. One end of soil moisture probe 102 can be configured in shape of a pointed tip for its ease of insertion into soil. Other end of probe 102 can be operatively connected to other modules of device 100 disclosed. A thin watertight coating can be formed around the PCB (that can either be a single layer or a multi-layer type) in order to make probe 102 moisture and corrosion poof and so, extend its life.
[00069] In another aspect, ADC module 104 can receive an analog soil moisture content
based signal from probe 102 and convert it into a digital signal as required by communication
module 106. For the purpose, ADC module 104 can be of 16 bit ADC type. In another aspect,
ADC module 104 can be configured for any suitable sampling rate of analog signal generated by
probe 102. In an exemplary embodiment, this sampling rate can be about 8000 samples per
second. The digital signal generated by ADC module 104 can further be used to determine
moisture content of soil in which probe 102 is inserted, as elaborated herein.
[00070] In another aspect, communication module 106 can transmit digital signal it can
receive from ADC module 104 using any digital communication system such as a GSM system, Wi-Fi, Internet etc. to one or more external digital systems/devices that can as well be computing devices for further processing therein. Likewise, communication module 106 can receive data from such external digital systems/devices (for example, a GSM based mobile device or a website) and transmit instructions based on receipt of such data to other modules. Communication module 106 can have a SIM card holder to enable it to carry a SIM card and so connect to corresponding GSM cellular network.
[00071] In an aspect, clock module 108 can have a real time clock that can be configured
to activate circuit of device disclosed only when moisture readings are to be taken.
[00072] In another aspect, location module 110 can at any time determine location of the
device and transmit this location signal to communication module 106. In an exemplary implementation, location module 110 can be GPS based.
[00073] In an aspect, communication module 106 can receive soil moisture content data
from ADC module 104 and location data from location module 110 and send such data to a digital device configured to receive it, using appropriate communication network(s). In an exemplary implementation, communication module 106 can send such data by SMS to the user
13

mobile phone or any other system/device configured to receive such data and process it appropriately. In an alternate embodiment, communication module 106 can send all such data to a database platform managed by a service provider that can then relay data to the user in an actionable format. In alternate exemplary embodiments the digital device can be any from a group including a mobile device, a smartphone, a personal computer, a laptop, a tablet and a web-enabled device, and can further process the soil moisture content data and the location data as required.
[00074] In this manner, device disclosed can communicate soil moisture content data and
location data inexpensively over long distances and enables such data to be provided to user wherever he is.
[00075] The location data transmitted by the device disclosed can be used to discourage its
theft. In an exemplary embodiment, device disclosed can send an alarm signal to the digital device as soon as location data being transmitted by the device disclosed changes by a pre-determined threshold that can be set by user. Even in case of theft, the user can easily determine where the device is presently located and can recover it accordingly.
[00076] In another aspect, configuration module 112 can enable a user to configure device
disclosed to various requirements and parameters based upon one or more configuration signals. A user can, using any digital device/ network suitably configured such as a GSM phone or a website send configuration signals to communication module 106 that can forward such signals to configuration module 112. In an exemplary embodiment using configuration signals a user can configure time intervals or the absolute times at which device disclosed can measure soil moisture data, per his/her preference. In another exemplary embodiment, using configuration signals the user can configure the device to send data received by communication module 106 to a mobile phone number per user’s preference.
[00077] In an aspect communication module 106 can enable receipt by the configuration
module 112 of configuration signals from a remote device through a short range communication method or a long range communication method.
[00078] In exemplary implementations, the short range communication method can
include ZigBee, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, LAN, WLAN etc. while long range communications method can include WAN, Internet, GSM, RF, Microwave, 3G, 4G, CDMA etc.
14

[00079] Hence, relevant parameters of device disclosed can be configured by a user
according to his/her requirements.
[00080] In an aspect, power module 114 can include a rechargeable battery configured to
supply power to other modules of device disclosed for their proper functioning, a solar power
based power generation circuit to charge the battery or provide power to other modules of device
disclosed as required, and a battery status indicator circuit. In another aspect, power module 114
can send battery status data to communication module 106 when required. In an exemplary
embodiment the battery can be a lithium polymer (LiPo) type of battery.
[00081] In an aspect power module 114 can have an Integrated System Load Sharing and
Battery Charge Management system that can simultaneously power the device (SMSD) while
providing charge to its battery, priority being given to device load over battery charge current (or
vice-versa as configured by the user). The device can accordingly obtain power from the
rechargeable battery or the solar power based power generation circuit
[00082] In another aspect, power module 114 can cut power to device disclosed in order to
enhance battery life when battery voltage level drops below a pre-determined threshold.
[00083] In exemplary implementations the rechargeable battery can be a 3.7v polymer
lithium ion battery and a 5V 0.8W 160MA solar panel can be provided for the power generation
circuit.
[00084] In this manner, the soil moisture sensing device (SMSD) disclosed does not need
replacement of its battery for a very long time and can transmit its battery status to user as and
when required..
[00085] In another aspect, all modules of device disclosed except soil moisture probe 102
can be configured on the Printed Circuit Board (PCB) 116 that can also carry a pin type terminal
connector to enable easy connection/disconnection of soil moisture probe 102 as required.
Ribbon cables can be provided as required to enable communication amongst different modules
PCB 116 with associated components can be housed in a fully waterproof polycarbonate casing,
top of which can have at least one solar panel for power module 114. The pin type terminal
connector can be configured to be at base of the housing and probe 102 can be provided
corresponding mounting pins. In this manner probe 102 can be connected to rest of the device
disclosed and modules therein simply by pressing it in on the pin type terminal connector and
then by pulling it out when it needs to be replaced. Hence, probe 102 and device disclosed can be
15

of modular design in which probe 102 can be easily replaced without any soldering and without
removal of any other components. In case probe 102 fails for any reason, it can be replaced
without moving or needing to change any other components of the device disclosed.
[00086] In an exemplary implementation, PCB 116 can measure 8 cm X 8 cm X 1.6 cm.
[00087] In an aspect, one or more modules configured on PCB 116 can be configured to
be inside a micro controller unit, the micro controller unit getting appropriate data from them / user and giving control instructions to them accordingly.
[00088] In another aspect, device disclosed can be configured with an irrigation controller
to make it an end-to-end system. For this purpose, soil moisture content based signals generated by the device disclosed using probe 102 and ADC 104 can be further processed using a proprietary irrigation model that can also consider parameters specific to the user such as his/her soil type, crop and field size. The model can then generate actionable output, for example signals to control an irrigation pump using appropriate irrigation controllers that can automatically start or stop the irrigation pump.
[00089] In an aspect, device disclosed can be configured using standard, off the shelf
components mostly thus making it economical to manufacture. Enclosure of PCB 116 with various modules in a fully waterproof polycarbonate casing and that of soil moisture probe in watertight coating can make device disclosed rugged and long lasting.
[00090] FIG 2 illustrates electronic specifications of a soil moisture sensing device in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[00091] As illustrated, the device disclosed can be configured to have a soil moisture
probe of specifications shown. The PCB of device disclosed can have quad band gsm/gprs capability with a GPS accuracy of 2.5 meters, an operation temperature of -40 deg. C to 85 Deg. C and a configurable measurement time. It can be powered by a 3.7V, 1000 mAh LiPo battery with a solar panel battery charging of 5V, 160mA, 0.8 W and can have an average current consumption of 1mA. Device disclosed can have various indicators such as an LED to indicate if GSM module is working, another to indicate if device is connected to a network and yet another to indicate if device is locked on to GPS satellites so as to enable its location to be determined. Another set of 3 LEDs can indicate status of battery management circuitry such as is voltage on solar panel insufficient, is battery being charged or is thermal protection activated.
16

[00092] FIG. 3 illustrates logic deployed by a soil moisture sensing device in accordance
with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, illustrating dual communication between user and device so that the user can retrieve readings on demand by sending an SMS to the device.
[00093] In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, device disclosed can use an SIM808
module. SIM 808 module is a GSM and GPS two-in-one function module based on the latest GSM/GPS module SIM808 from SIMCOM, supports GSM/GPRS Quad-Band network and combines GPS technology for satellite navigation.
[00094] As shown, at step 1, battery can be inserted in device disclosed to start it. Device
can proceed to initial setup where a dummy time can be set and SIM 808 can be set to sleep
mode. At step 3, MCU (micro controller unit) of device disclosed can wake up by a real time
clock (RTC) interrupt and can check If Vcc is above threshold value or below. At step 4, MCU
can determine that Vcc on MCU is above a threshold level. If so, at step 5 device disclosed can
turn on SIM 808 that can try to acquire network information for 60 seconds. At step 6, SIM 808
has acquired network information successfully. At step 7, MCU has finished setting up network
time, has set RTC to network time and has set GPS flag to 0. At step 8, SIM 808 can try to
acquire GPS data for 60 seconds. At step 9, SIM 808 has acquired GPS data successfully. At step
10, MCU has finished setting up network time, has set RTC to network time and has set GPS
flag to 1.At step 11, MCU has finished with ADC readings and battery readings. At step 12,
device disclosed sets SMS flag to 1 or marks SMS timeout as true and next, starts sending SMS
giving the ADC reading and battery reading. At step 13, sending SMS is finished.
[00095] On the other hand, at step 14, MCU can determine Vcc on MCU is below a
threshold level. If so, at step 15, SIM 808 can remain turned off and RTC interrupt set to 1 minute. At step 16, SIM 808 is not connected to network after 60 seconds and RTC interrupt set to1 minute again. In this manner, device disclosed checks Vcc on MCU every one minute and if Vcc above threshold, proceeds to step 5 else to step 15.
[00096] At step 17, MCU wakes up due to an RI interrupt (SIM 808 interrupt that switches
on SIM 808 and determines whether it has got a call or a message). At step 18, SIM 808 determines it has got a call and sets SMS flag to 1. At step 19, SIM 808 determines it has got an SMS. It parses the SMS and, if it has configuration instructions, at step 20, MCU finishes configuring time outs, phone number, SMS and GPS flag and then proceeds to acquire ADC and
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battery readings and starts sending out SMS accordingly. If the SMS has no configuration
instructions, at step 21, GPS flag is set to 1 and device disclosed proceeds to acquire GPS data,
ADC and battery readings and starts sending out SMS accordingly.
[00097] FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B illustrate exemplary schematics of a soil moisture probe and
PCB used in a soil moisture sensing device in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the
present disclosure.
[00098] As illustrated in FIG. 4A, the soil moisture probe 402 can be a capacitance based
soil moisture sensor that can measure dielectric constant of soil in which it is inserted and
generate soil moisture content based signals according to which moisture content of soil can be
determined.
[00099] As illustrated in FIG. 4B, the PCB can take the analog soil moisture content based
signals generated by the soil moisture probe, output digital signals accordingly and can be
powered using an Integrated System Load Sharing and Battery Charge Management system 456
that can simultaneously power the device while providing charge to its rechargeable battery 452,
priority being given to device load over battery charge current (or vice-versa as configured by
the user). The device can accordingly obtain power from the rechargeable battery 452 or the
solar power based power generation circuit 454.
[000100] FIG. 5 illustrates a board layout diagram of a soil moisture sensing device in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[000101] As illustrated, device disclosed can have a soil moisture probe 502 that can be
connected to PCB 504 using terminal connectors 506a and 506b. In an aspect, terminal
connectors can be of pin type to enable direct mounting of soil moisture probe 502 over PCB
504. PCB 504 can have mounted on it various other modules of device disclosed, as elaborated
above.
[000102] FIG. 6 illustrates CAD drawing of a soil moisture sensing device in accordance
with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[000103] As illustrated, soil moisture probe 602 can be directly mounted on PCB 604 using
pin type terminal connector as elaborated above. PCB 604 can have mounted on it various other
modules of device disclosed, as elaborated above.
[000104] FIG. 7 illustrates a 3D rendering of a soil moisture sensing device in accordance
with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
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[000105] As illustrated, soil moisture probe 702 can be directly mounted on PCB that is enclosed in polycarbonate housing 704, on top of which can be configured a solar panel 706 to provide power to the solar power based power generation circuit. Power generated by the solar power based generation circuit can be used for various modules of the device disclosed or can charge the rechargeable battery within. When solar power is not enough, the rechargeable battery instead can provide power to the device disclosed.
[000106] Since PCB can be enclosed in polycarbonate housing 704 and probe 702 is moisture proof as elaborated above, the soil moisture sensing device is not prone to moisture ingress in the field.
[000107] Device as disclosed and elaborated above can be very beneficial and have multiple applications as described hereunder.
[000108] Freshwater availability is becoming increasingly constrained and agriculture is the largest user of this resource. Farmers generally rely upon estimates based upon experience, intuition and availability of water resources to judge the amount of water their crops require and schedule irrigation events accordingly. Device disclosed can provide the necessary data required for scheduling irrigation events in a scientific manner to optimize water conservation and can enable a user (interchangeably termed as a farmer) to make correct irrigation decisions that have a direct bearing on his/her labor cost, fertilizer cost, crop stress and long-term soil degradation. [000109] Users currently rely upon visual estimation for irrigation decisions. This often leads to over-watering and under-watering. Both states are common causes of crop stress and long-term soil degradation. Further, over-watering wastes water and fertilizer efficiency is reduced due to leaching of fertilizer. This means farmers who often overwater their crops will spend more money on fertilizers.
[000110] To avoid under-watering, a user (or his/her worker) has to be present manually on the field to assess its moisture status. This requires regular visits to the field, even when using devices such as a tensiometer or soil moisture indicator with manual gauge. Device disclosed can reduce labor costs as a worker will only need to attend to a field to turn on/off irrigation and therefore avoid unnecessary visits to the field. Even visits to operate the irrigation system may be avoided as explained hereunder.
[000111] Device disclosed can be used by farmers to schedule irrigation on farms in order to increase crop yield, enhance water conservation and reduce labor and fertilizer costs. It
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enables a farmer (user) to know when a field is sufficiently irrigated or requires irrigation. This can be done by combining the device with cloud technology.
[000112] For the purpose, device disclosed can be combined with cloud technology and associated devices and systems. Soil moisture content based signals generated by the device disclosed using soil moisture probe can be sent to a database that can be maintained in the cloud. Such signals can be further processed using a proprietary irrigation model that can also consider parameters specific to the user such as his/her soil type, crop and filed size. The model can then generate actionable output, for example irrigation alerts if trigger thresholds such as field too wet or too dry are breached. These alerts can then be relayed to the user through an SMS on his/her cellphone or via a mobile application on his/her smartphone. In alternate embodiments such alerts can control irrigation pump serving the field and automatically start or stop the pump. [000113] Alternatively, the user can manually calibrate readings directly from the device disclosed to his/her current decision making setup i.e. he can observe/ record signals generated by the device when the field is sufficiently irrigated or when it is ready to be irrigated and use such signals for triggering subsequent irrigation events.
[000114] In another aspect, as the device is solar powered it does not require frequent battery change and so is very economical to operate.
[000115] Furthermore, a plurality of device disclosed can be installed at multiple “end points” within a defined geography and moisture data aggregated from such devices. Such aggregate data can then be utilized to enhance climate forecasting with a particular focus on drought prediction as soil moisture monitors the movement of water between the Earth's surface and atmosphere, a key function of heat energy. Satellite systems such as NASA's SMAP currently capture soil moisture data dynamically on a global level but only measure moisture at the first 0-5cm of soil depth whereas device disclosed can enable moisture level detection upto a soil depth of 15 cm.
[000116] While an exemplary application of device disclosed has been elaborated above, it can be used in many other applications such as reduction in usage of water in Golf courses/pitches/sports arenas with heavy water utilization for grass/landscape, research facilities for testing water consumption/requirements of crops, sensing moisture and scheduling irrigation events for Gardens, potted plants and landscapes etc.
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[000117] As used herein, and unless the context dictates otherwise, the term “coupled to” is intended to include both direct coupling (in which two elements that are coupled to each other contact each other) and indirect coupling (in which at least one additional element is located between the two elements). Therefore, the terms “coupled to” and “coupled with” are used synonymously. Within the context of this document terms “coupled to” and “coupled with” are also used euphemistically to mean “communicatively coupled with” over a network, where two or more devices are able to exchange data with each other over the network, possibly via one or more intermediary device.
[000118] While some embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described, those are completely exemplary in nature. The disclosure is not limited to the embodiments as elaborated herein only and it would be apparent to those skilled in the art that numerous modifications besides those already described are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein. All such modifications, changes, variations, substitutions, and equivalents are completely within the scope of the present disclosure. The inventive subject matter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the spirit of the appended claims. [000119] Moreover, in interpreting both the specification and the claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced. Where the specification claims refers to at least one of something selected from the group consisting of A, B, C ….and N, the text should be interpreted as requiring only one element from the group, not A plus N, or B plus N, etc.
[000120] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described
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in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.
ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION
[000121] The present disclosure provides for a soil moisture sensing device that is not
prone to moisture ingress in the field.
[000122] The present disclosure provides for a soil moisture sensing device that uses a
probe that can be replaced with needing to replace the whole device itself.
[000123] The present disclosure provides for a soil moisture sensing device that can
communicate relevant data inexpensively over long distances and enables such data to be
provided to user wherever he/she is.
[000124] The present disclosure provides for a soil moisture sensing device in which
relevant parameters can be configured according to requirements of user by himself/herself
[000125] The present disclosure provides for a soil moisture sensing device that does not
need replacement of its battery for a very long time and transmits its battery status to user as and
when required..
[000126] The present disclosure provides for a soil moisture sensing device that
discourages its theft.
[000127] The present disclosure provides for a soil moisture sensing device that is rugged
and economical.

We Claim:
A soil moisture sensing device comprising:
a soil moisture probe to receive a configuration signal, and measure soil moisture content at a location upon receipt of the configuration signal so as to generate at least one soil moisture content based signal;
an analog to digital converter (ADC) module to convert the at least one soil moisture content based signal to at least one digital soil moisture content based signal;
a location module to generate at least one digital location based signal for the location; and
a communication module to transmit any or combination of the at least one digital soil moisture content based signal and the at least one digital location based signal to a digital device.
The soil moisture sensing device of claim 1 wherein the device further comprises a first printed circuit board (PCB) configured to hold all the modules in a fully waterproof polycarbonate casing, wherein the first PCB enables mounting of the soil moisture probe upon itself in a replaceable manner.
The soil moisture sensing device of claim 1, wherein the soil moisture probe is capacitance based and configured on a second PCB within a thin watertight coating formed around the second PCB.
The soil moisture sensing device of claim 1, wherein the soil moisture probe has a plurality of sensing points..
The soil moisture sensing device of claim 1, wherein the ADC module is configured to sample analog signal generated by the soil moisture probe using a sampling rate of about 8000 samples per second.

The soil moisture sensing device of claim 1, wherein the configuration signal is based on any or a combination of pre-determined time intervals, absolute time, missed call on a pre-configured phone number and SMS on a pre-configured phone number.
The soil moisture sensing device of claim 1, wherein the digital device is one from a group comprising a mobile device, a smartphone, a personal computer, a laptop, a tablet, and a web-enabled device.
The soil moisture sensing device of claim 1, wherein the device sends an alarm signal to the digital device as soon as the at least one digital location based signal changes by a pre-determined threshold.
The soil moisture sensing device of claim 1, wherein the device has a power module to provide power to the device from any or a combination of solar power and rechargeable battery, wherein the communication module communicates the rechargeable battery status data to the digital device; and wherein the power module cuts power to the device when battery voltage level drops below a pre-determined threshold.
An irrigation pump configured to maintain soil moisture at a location determined by at least one location based signal at a pre-configured level, wherein the irrigation pump operates according to at least one digital soil moisture content based signal generated by a soil moisture sensing device as claimed in any of the claims 1 to 10.